Transit leaders unveil ambitious plans for Gold Line expansion

During a recent government meeting, transit service director Tom Hinson presented an update on the SWIFT Gold Line, the latest initiative in the expansion of bus rapid transit (BRT) in Snohomish County, Washington. This follows the successful launch of previous BRT lines, including the Orange Line, which opened on March 30 and connects Mill Creek to Lynnwood, coinciding with the upcoming light rail station opening.

Hinson emphasized the collaborative efforts among Everett Transit, Community Transit, and Sound Transit, particularly in light of the bipartisan infrastructure law aimed at transitioning to a zero-emission fleet. The Gold Line is designed to connect Everett Station and Downtown Everett to Marysville, Arlington, and the Smoky Point Transit Center, fulfilling a commitment made by voters in 2015 to enhance public transit options.

The planning phase for the Gold Line has commenced, with public engagement sessions scheduled to gather community input on the project’s design and functionality. Hinson noted that this is just the beginning of a long-term conversation aimed at defining the project, with a decision on its scope expected in the first quarter of next year.

Christopher Silvera, director of the capital program, will lead the next steps in the planning process, supported by a team of transit officials ready to address community questions and concerns. The meeting underscored the importance of public involvement in shaping the future of transit in the region, as officials prepare for the next phase of development.