In mid-September, Sound Transit took a significant step toward opening the final portion of its 2 Line. The first Link light rail vehicle crossed the I-90 floating bridge under its own power overnight on September 8, kicking off test runs on the line expected to open in early 2026. This marks a historic milestone for both Sound Transit and the transit industry – it was the first time light rail trains under power have operated across a floating bridge anywhere in the world.

During the historic test, a single train crossed the Homer M. Hadley bridge several times at increasing speeds, from approximately five miles per hour up to the full operating speed of 55 mph. The test was conducted in darkness so crews could observe and document expected electrical arcing. Arcing between the overhead catenary and the vehicle is typical in this phase of testing. 

The next step in the process is rigorous testing, which includes live wire and signal testing, which will be completed over the next few months. The opening of full 2 Line service is expected in early 2026.

—Bob Gallegos