Beginning August 30, 2024, the adult one-way fare for the Link light rail will be set at a flat rate of $3. This adjustment simplifies the current distance-based fare structure, where fares range from $2.25 to $3.50. The new fare system eliminates the need for passengers to tap their ORCA cards both when boarding and getting off, requiring only a single tap when boarding.
This change is intended to make it easier for passengers to plan and budget for their trips. The $3 flat fare will apply to all adult riders on both the 1 Line and 2 Line services. The fare for the T Line in Tacoma will remain at $2
Sound Transit last adjusted fares in 2015. A planned fare adjustment in 2020 was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Sound Transit.
As the Link light rail system continues to expand, Sound Transit has decided that updating the fare structure is necessary to maintain and enhance the quality of service. Fares are a large contributor to Sound Transit’s revenue, as well as sales taxes, government grants, property taxes, and motor vehicle excise taxes.
The change to a flat fare was in large part due to feedback from Sound Transit’s Board members and community input. In the future, the flat fare structure could also limit the maximum amount a rider can be charged within a specific period.
The 2 Line service on the Eastside began operation on April 27, 2024. This initial segment includes 6.5 miles of track and eight new stations in Bellevue and Redmond. Trains on the 2 Line run every 10 minutes for 16 hours each day.
The remaining sections of the 2 Line, which will include stations in Judkins Park and Mercer Island, are scheduled to open in 2025. The service operates from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day of the week.
