Land values and construction costs have increased since voters approved the Sound Transit 3 ballot initiative.
"Cost estimates for extending Sound Transit light rail to both Ballard and West Seattle have risen by about $5 billion," reports Michelle Baruchman. That increase amounts to 50 percent of the previously estimated cost of extending light rail on either end of the Sound Transit system.
Another light rail project, between Federal Way and the Tacoma Dome, has also increased dramatically, according to Baruchman.
"Sound Transit blames the higher costs primarily on rising real estate prices in densely developed areas where projects would be built, and a hot construction market that has pushed prices higher than expected — even during the pandemic," according to Baruchman. The price of the projects has increased along with the price of land since voters approved the $54 billion Sound Transit 3 ballot measure in 2015.
The rising costs estimates will require Sound Transit to make final decisions on construction during the final environmental impact statement process. Sound transit spokesperson Geoff Patrick is paraphrased in the article as saying "actual projected costs will become more clear as projects advance to around 60% of the final design."
FULL STORY: Cost of building light rail to West Seattle, Ballard is much higher than first estimated
Alternatives Explored for West Seattle and Ballard Light Rail Extensions
Plans to extend the Sound Transit light rail system are moving forward. Elected officials have a big choice to make that will determine the cost and scope of the projects.
The Northgate Link Extension Is Great, But Voters Want More
A recent survey of Seattle voters finds widespread support for the continued expansion of the Link light rail system in Seattle.
Two Transit Agencies Using Their Clout to Spur Affordable Housing
More transit agencies are recognizing that it's not enough to build transit infrastructure if the people who really need it don't live close enough to use it.
Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.
Wildlife Rebounds After the Eaton Fire
Following the devastation of the Eaton Fire, the return of wildlife and the regrowth of native plants are offering powerful signs of resilience and renewal.
LA to Replace Inglewood Light Rail Project With Bus Shuttles
LA Metro says the change is in response to community engagement and that the new design will be ready before the 2028 Olympic Games.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Institute for Housing and Urban Development Studies (IHS)
City of Grandview
Harvard GSD Executive Education
Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada
Toledo-Lucas County Plan Commissions