Sound Transit celebrates Downtown Redmond link extension grand opening on May 10

Sammamish residents are gearing up for a significant transportation milestone as Sound Transit prepares to celebrate the grand opening of the Downtown Redmond Link Extension on May 10, 2025. This new light rail service will enhance connectivity for the East King County community, providing a vital link to regional transit options.

During the recent Sammamish City Council meeting, representatives from Sound Transit highlighted the importance of this project, which includes a 3.4-mile extension into Downtown Redmond. The new service will feature two stations: the Marymoor Village Station, equipped with a 1,400-stall parking facility, and the Downtown Redmond Station, which will serve as the terminus for the 2 Line. This extension aims to alleviate traffic congestion on State Route 520 by encouraging residents to utilize public transit.

The opening day festivities will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 AM, followed by the first train departure at noon. Community members are encouraged to attend, with activities planned at both new stations from noon to 4 PM. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, similar to the previous opening of the 2 Line, which attracted 35,000 attendees.

Sound Transit officials noted that ridership on the 2 Line has exceeded expectations, particularly during favorable weather conditions. The new stations will also be accessible via regional trails, promoting alternative transportation methods such as biking.

In addition to the light rail service, the city is working with King County Metro to enhance bus service frequency to the Marymoor Village Station, ensuring better access for Sammamish residents. However, the Downtown Redmond Station will not have parking facilities, directing commuters to the Marymoor Village Station for parking needs.

As the community anticipates the opening of this new transit option, city officials expressed excitement about the potential for increased public transportation use and improved regional connectivity. The grand opening marks a significant step forward in the ongoing development of the East King County transit system, promising to benefit residents for years to come.