Bellevue, Washington – Sound Transit’s long-awaited 2 Line has officially commenced operation, offering light rail service to the east side for the first time. This new line connects passengers to various stations across Bellevue and Redmond, providing a convenient and efficient mode of transportation for residents in the area.
After years of planning and development, the 2 Line has finally opened to the public, following approval from voters in 2008 and groundbreaking in 2016. The addition of eight stations throughout Bellevue and Redmond marks a significant milestone for Sound Transit and the community. Residents like Hanoch Yeung express their excitement for the new transit option, highlighting the convenience of traveling to Redmond without having to deal with traffic congestion.
One of the key benefits of the 2 Line is its accessibility and frequency of service. With trains running every 10 minutes for 16 hours a day, commuters and residents alike can rely on the light rail for their daily travels. Jake Cohen, a resident on the east side, praises the new line for its potential to enhance connectivity between Redmond, Bellevue, and surrounding neighborhoods, making public transit a more viable option for those who may not have considered it before.
The initial 6.6-mile segment of the 2 Line is expected to serve around 6,000 riders daily, offering a promising solution to alleviate traffic congestion in the region. Looking ahead, plans are in place to expand the line further next year, with the addition of two more stations in Redmond and a connection to Seattle via the I-90 segment. Residents like Cohen are eagerly anticipating the completion of these future developments, emphasizing the importance of seamless connectivity across different cities.