Sound Transit Board Approves $87M Fare Gate Pilot for 14 Link Stations
The Sound Transit Board approved a pilot program to install fare gates at 14 Link light rail stations, aiming to boost revenue and fare compliance. The project, estimated at $87 million, targets major hubs like the International District/Chinatown and SeaTac Airport, with installation scheduled between 2029 and 2030. This move addresses a 33% fare evasion rate and seeks to meet a 22% farebox recovery target, though it requires riders to tap cards upon exit, a significant change from current practices.
