March 2013
- The first phase of track construction work south of the station has been completed.
- The second phase of track work at King Street Station is underway. This work includes designs for new tracks and switches that will allow for more efficient train movements between Amtrak’s Seattle Maintenance Facility and westerly platforms of King Street Station.
Overview
WSDOT-sponsored Amtrak Cascades, Amtrak long-distance trains (Coast Starlight and Empire Builder), Sounder commuter trains, and BNSF Railway freight trains all use the tracks at King Street Station.
Why is WSDOT
improving the tracks at King Street Station?
The number of passenger trains using the station is planned to increase in the future. These track improvements will support more efficient train operations at the station and reduce schedule delays.
In a separate project, WSDOT is working with Amtrak, Sound Transit, BNSF Railway, and others to renovate King Street Station. Learn more about the King Street Station renovation project.
The End Result
Reconfiguring connections and relocating the BNSF Railway main line tracks south of the station will better accommodate the growing needs of WSDOT, Amtrak, Sound Transit, and BNSF Railway.
Project Benefits
- Improved accommodation of passenger and commuter trains
- Improved accommodation of freight trains
What is the project timeline?
October 2006: Construction began with contractor removing unused I-90 on-ramp near Royal Brougham Way.
February through March 2007: Royal Brougham was closed while BNSF Railway added railroad tracks over the street.
July 2008: Track work scheduled for the 2007-2009 biennium completed.
February 2013 - Begin engineering and design on the new, federally funded track configurations.
March 2015 - Begin construction
June 2016 - Construction complete
Financial Information
This project is funded through the following sources:
- 2005 Partnership Funding (Weight Fees) - $15 million
- Total Funding Available From All Sources - $15 million
WSDOT intends to use up to $52 million in ARRA grants to construct the next phase of track improvements at King Street Station.
How can I get more information?
Contact:
Jason R. Biggs
Project Manager
State Rail and Marine Office
PO Box 47407
Olympia, WA 98504-7407
Phone: 360-705-6985
E-mail: BiggsJR@wsdot.wa.gov
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