Federal Way Light Rail Extension: Saturday the Pacific Northwest is Continuing to Build Back Better

The Pacific Northwest is taking another massive leap forward in its infrastructure evolution. This Saturday, December 6, 2025, the Federal Way Link Extension officially opens to the public, extending the 1 Line from Angle Lake all the way to Federal Way.

This isn’t just about adding a few more miles of track; it’s a tangible symbol of the region’s commitment to “building back better”—investing in sustainable, high-capacity transit that connects communities, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and prepares the region for a booming future.

The Hook: Why This Matters Now

For decades, commuters in South King County have been stuck in the gridlock of I-5, watching the region’s growth outpace its infrastructure. The opening of the Federal Way extension is the relief valve millions have been waiting for. It represents the culmination of years of planning, funding (primarily through Sound Transit 3), and construction, delivering on the promise of a connected Puget Sound.

With the 2 Line (East Link) facing its own set of challenges and delays, the timely—and even accelerated—opening of the Federal Way extension is a massive win for Sound Transit and the residents of Kent, Des Moines, and Federal Way.

Technical Analysis: The New Route

The Federal Way Link Extension adds 7.8 miles of light rail to the system, extending south from the Angle Lake station.

Key Stations

The extension introduces three new stations, each designed to serve as a multimodal hub:

• Kent Des Moines Station: Located near Highline College, this station serves the communities of Kent and Des Moines, providing critical access for students and commuters.
• Star Lake Station: Situated at S 272nd St, this station includes a large parking garage, acknowledging the reality that many riders will still need to drive to the train.
• Federal Way Downtown Station: The new terminus (for now), located in the heart of Federal Way’s city center. This station is a game-changer for the city’s urban development plans.

Speed and Capacity

The 1 Line will now offer seamless service from Federal Way all the way to Northgate (and eventually Lynnwood/Everett). Riders can expect:

• Frequency: Trains running every 8-10 minutes during peak hours.
• Travel Time: A reliable, traffic-free commute to Sea-Tac Airport (approx. 15 mins) and downtown Seattle (approx. 45-50 mins).

Context: Building Back Better in the PNW

While “Build Back Better” is often associated with specific federal legislation, the spirit of the phrase perfectly encapsulates what’s happening in the Pacific Northwest. The region is actively rebuilding its post-pandemic economy and infrastructure with a focus on resilience and sustainability.

This project was accelerated, with the opening date moved up to December 2025 from a later target, thanks to efficient project management and the prioritization of South King County’s needs. It stands in contrast to other infrastructure projects that often face chronic delays. It shows that when the region focuses its resources, it can deliver world-class infrastructure.

Impact: What It Means for You

For Commuters

If you live in Federal Way or Kent and work in Seattle or at the airport, your life just got significantly better. You now have a reliable alternative to the unpredictable misery of I-5 traffic. No more worrying about accidents blocking the freeway or rush hour gridlock.

For Homeowners and Renters

Proximity to light rail is a proven driver of property values. Expect to see increased interest and development around the three new stations. If you own property nearby, you’re sitting on a growing asset. If you’re renting, be prepared for potential market shifts as these areas become more desirable.

For the Environment

Every full train takes hundreds of cars off the road. In a region that prides itself on environmental stewardship, this is a critical step toward meeting carbon reduction goals. It makes living a car-light or car-free lifestyle genuinely viable for thousands more families.

Buying Advice: How to Ride

If you’re planning to ride the new extension starting this Saturday:

1. Get an ORCA Card: Don’t fumble with cash or paper tickets. The ORCA card is the seamless way to pay. You can also use the Transit GO Ticket app.
2. Check the Schedule: While trains are frequent, it’s always good to know the first and last train times, especially for late-night trips.
3. Parking: If you plan to park at Star Lake or Federal Way, arrive early. These garages are expected to fill up quickly, especially in the first few weeks of excitement.
4. Explore: Take the train to explore a new neighborhood. Go from Federal Way to the International District for lunch, or take the train from Seattle down to Federal Way to check out the new development.

The Federal Way Light Rail Extension is more than just tracks and trains; it’s a promise kept. It’s proof that the Pacific Northwest is building a better, more connected future, one station at a time.