WSLE cost overruns could break the ST3 timeline
Building WSLE first is a risky move because it is the lowest value of the ST3 lines in terms of ridership, spine, and utility on an incomplete ST3. Cost overruns and delays would push Everett, Tacoma and Ballard lines years further.
- Sound Transit does not have a strong track record for being on budget and on time. They are a poorly managed and governed organization and there is no indication that will change.
- Duwamish Waterway pathway is tricky and costly
- WSLE is banking on federal funding that is not likely to come from the current administration.
Cost overruns equates to years of additional delays of other ST3 lines.
The delays have a compounding effect since delays would impact DSST2 which until built makes WSLE a stub line.
Again I’m scratching my head why in the world are they building this line first.