Sound Transit reveals Tacoma Dome Lake Extension preferred alternatives to Fife City Council

The Fife City Council held a significant meeting on May 13, 2025, focusing on the ongoing Tacoma Dome Link Extension project, which aims to enhance public transportation in the region. The meeting featured presentations from Sound Transit staff, who provided updates on the project's progress and gathered community feedback.

One of the key highlights was the introduction of the preliminary preferred alternative for the project, which includes a 10-mile light rail extension from South Federal Way to the Tacoma Dome. This extension will feature four stations, including one in Fife, and two parking facilities. The Sound Transit team emphasized that while this preferred alternative is a major milestone, it is not a final decision, as further modifications may occur before the board's action in June.

Community engagement has been a priority, with Sound Transit reporting a successful 60-day comment period that attracted significant public interest. Over 69 individuals attended four public meetings, and nearly 14,000 mailers were sent to residents to encourage participation. Feedback revealed strong support for the project, alongside concerns about potential impacts on wetlands, local businesses, and traffic during construction.

The council also discussed the importance of safe multimodal connections at the stations and the need for careful consideration of parking options. Sound Transit staff reassured attendees that these concerns would be addressed in the final environmental impact statement, expected to be published in 2027.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between Sound Transit and the City of Fife to ensure that the Tacoma Dome Link Extension project aligns with community needs and minimizes disruptions. As the project moves forward, continued dialogue with residents and stakeholders will be crucial in shaping a successful transportation solution for the region.