The SoundTransit Link Light Rail system is an ongoing light rail mass transit construction project in the

greater Seattle region. The Central Link segment runs from downtown Seattle to Sea-Tac International

Airport. Planned for completion in 2016, the University Link will run primarily through twin-bored tunnels

from downtown Seattle to the University of Washington.

Multiple Rail SegMentSSpread across several miles of varying terrain, this light rail construction program poses numerous technical, staffing, and coordination challenges. Work locations include above-ground elevated rails and stations, busy downtown Seattle streets, underground tunnels, and remote fabrication shops. Different contractors are managing various rail segments, since the Central Link and University Link have been split into smaller contracts. Firm program deadlines and federal funding require on-time completion of each rail segment.

ReinfoRcing a RelationShipSince 2004, Kleinfelder had provided services—including quality assurance, forensic investigations, and securing international expertise—directly to SoundTransit, playing a major role in keeping the program on schedule. Kleinfelder’s previous work on the Central Link led to its selection as the Quality Assurance and Testing and Inspection team for the University Link segment. Kleinfelder provided periodic oversight of contractor-controlled laboratory, testing, and inspection work. Project demands often required Kleinfelder to rapidly mobilize personnel with little notice to a broad range of locations.

location:Greater Seattle, Washington owner:SoundTransit

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Soundtransit link light Rail

pRoJect ReSultS

Kleinfelder’s ongoing

relationship with

SoundTransit brings

consistency in approach

and responsiveness to

this high-visibility, public

works program. Successful

coordination and partnering

with various project

contractors has allowed

Kleinfelder to help its

client meet the completion

schedule for this rail project,

designed to reach 90% of

Puget Sound residents upon

completion in 2020.