BELLEVUE, Wash. – Light rail service is set to revolutionize transportation on the Eastside, with the opening of the Link 2 Line on April 27, 2024. This new service will connect Bellevue and Redmond, marking a significant milestone in regional transportation infrastructure.

Connecting Communities

The Link 2 Line will span across 6.5 miles of the Eastside, featuring eight new stations that will facilitate seamless travel between Bellevue and Redmond. This development is part of a broader plan to enhance connectivity in the region, with further expansion into Snohomish County slated for the fall.

Convenient and Reliable Service

Sound Transit has announced that two-car trains will operate on the Link 2 Line, providing service every 10 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., seven days a week. This frequent and reliable service aims to offer commuters an alternative to congested roadways, enabling them to reach their destinations efficiently.

King County Executive Dow Constantine emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, With the opening of the 2 Line on the Eastside this spring, and our major expansion into Snohomish County this fall, we’re bringing the convenience of light rail to hundreds of thousands more people across the region.

Future Expansion and Connectivity

While the 2 Line is scheduled to fully open in 2025, officials have cited delays in the I-90 segment of East Link due to quality issues. Once resolved, this segment will connect Mercer Island and Judkins Park stations to the 2 Line, providing seamless access to downtown Seattle.

Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson expressed excitement about the new route, highlighting the city’s commitment to improving mobility and access for residents and visitors alike. She stated, Bellevue’s partnership with Sound Transit has been guided by a shared vision to improve mobility and access for everyone who lives, works and plays in Bellevue and the region.

Ensuring Safety and Security

With the introduction of the Bellevue route, the Bellevue Police Department (BPD) is gearing up to launch its new police unit – The Bellevue Light Rail Unit (BLU). This dedicated unit is designed to enhance safety and security on the light rail system, ensuring a positive riding experience for passengers.

Each of Bellevue’s six Link stops falls within the patrol duties of the BLU team, underscoring the department’s commitment to providing a safe environment for commuters.

Conclusion: Embracing a New Era of Transportation

The opening of the Link 2 Line represents a significant step forward in transforming transportation on the Eastside. As communities embrace this new mode of transit, they can look forward to enhanced connectivity, reduced congestion, and increased accessibility. With further expansion on the horizon, the future of transportation in the region is poised for continued growth and improvement.

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