Bellevue Beat | East Link light-rail trains begin practice runs in Bellevue
Bellevue.com
| Tweet |
|
Sound Transit is preparing to deliver new transit service to Bellevue and the eastside in 2024, including the opening of the East Link route between South Bellevue and Redmond Technology Stations.
Sound Transit, on Monday, November 1, began the next phase of testing by launching full practice runs on the East Link line (also known as 2 Line) in Bellevue. During this phase of testing, known as "pre-revenue service", light-rail trains will be actively crossing at-grade level crossings on an ongoing basis. This phase includes operator and maintenance staff training as well as continued testing to ensure that stations, tracks, utilities, and vehicles work together as expected before opening to passengers.
East Link tracks in Bellevue are mostly isolated within tunnels and viaducts, but they do cross four Bellevue streets near Bel-Red Station east of downtown Bellevue.
Flaggers and safety professionals will be on site to direct traffic when needed. Moving forward, pedestrians and motorists should always expect trains to be running.
|
|
|
|
More on Bellevue.com
|
Trains at all hours: Trains will be running on the tracks at any time of day or night as part of the testing process. This includes early mornings, late nights, and weekends.
Sounds of an operating light rail system, including:
- Wheels on the tracks.
- Warning signals: Be aware of ringing bells and other warning signals at at-grade crossings. These signals alert pedestrians and drivers of approaching trains.
- Station announcements: Near stations, you may hear station announcements, train arrival notifications, and public announcements during this testing phase.
Increased activity: Expect an increase in maintenance vehicles, testing equipment, and personnel involved in the testing process in the area during this time.
Safety tips at rail crossings:
- Look both ways. Trains come from both directions, so always expect a second train!
- Headphones off, screens down. It’s important to stay alert to be safe.
- Take crosswalks, not shortcuts. Trains always have the right of way, so pay attention to crossing signals.
- Bike smart, ride safe. When you’re riding a bike, always cross tracks at a 90-degree angle to prevent getting stuck.
Published: November 2, 2023
Photos and renderings courtesy of City of Bellevue, Sound Transit
|
|
