2 Line Simulated Service Begins

2 Line train (left) and 1 Line train (right) at Pioneer Square station

The first scheduled Link 2 Line train departed International District/Chinatown station (CID) this morning, marking the start of full 2 Line simulated service - a key final step before the 2 Line's full opening on March 28. For the next six weeks, passengers will be allowed on the trains between CID and Lynnwood, and between Downtown Redmond and South Bellevue. Trains will travel empty across Lake Washington. To travel between CID and South Bellevue, passengers should transfer to Sound Transit Route 550.

This long awaited milestone brings significant benefits to many Link riders on both sides of Lake Washington. Passengers traveling between Lynnwood and CID will be able to use either the 1 Line or 2 Line. The two lines will alternate, resulting in a combined 4 minute frequency during peak hours and 5 minute frequency the rest of the day. Passengers traveling to a station south of CID should wait for the next 1 Line train. On the Eastside, 2 Line trains will now run between 4:00am and midnight.

Real-Time arrivals screen at Westlake station

While northbound passengers can board the next train from either line (both terminate at Lynnwood City Center), southbound passengers will need to ensure they board the correct train. Before boarding, check the real time arrivals screen at the station or the displays on the front and sides of the train.

2 Line train to CID at Westlake station

On the train, the overhead display will show the next stop.

Onboard screen on the 2 Line

This is the first time in Link's history that 2 different lines will serve the same stations. Sound Transit staff and transit security are proactively informing passengers of the change, both on the platform and on the train. If you are not sure which train to board, ask a Sound Transit employee or security staff member for guidance.