TACOMA, Wash. — A huge expansion to light rail is coming to Tacoma, and transit officials are asking for the public’s feedback on what the expansion should look like.
The expansion would double the number of light rail stations in the city.
Currently, the line goes from the Tacoma Dome and then up Pacific Avenue to the Theater District. With the expansion, it would continue north and then horseshoe into the Hilltop neighborhood, extending the line by 2-1/2 miles.
There are already about a million rides per year along light rail in Tacoma, and Wednesday night is the public’s chance to weigh in on the proposed expansion that would include six new stations, one relocated station and public art.
“I think it would be good for the community. I think it would bring a lot more business up here,” said Tacoma resident Cecil Wyatt.
The project is expected to cost $165 million. Of that money, $125 million comes from Sound Transit taxes and federal grants. Additional partners, including the City of Tacoma, would provide $40 million.
Construction on the expansion is expected to start in 2018.
The public meeting starts at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday at Evergreen State College.