Test Runs for the Light Rail in Rainier Valley

"Sound Transit Test" by Seattlest Flickr contributor andrew martin

Sound Transit completed its first test runs of the long-awaited Light Rail system on MLK Way in the Rainier Valley yesterday. Sound Transit's first run-through was done at "walking speed," which we assume is considerably slower than the max of 35mph the trains will go, to ease area drivers and pedestrians into sharing the road. Originally, Sound Transit had hoped their first run would be at full speed and with traffic, but they wisely decided to take the first trip slowly.

By all accounts, the test run was a success, with no pedestrians, bicyclists, or cars hit, and sidewalks full of folks stopping to stare at the train passing by.

While light rail service in Rainier Valley is not scheduled to be up and running for public use until July of '09, it is exciting to see any results at all when it comes to public transportation in Seattle. So, we say without any cynicism, three cheers for a first successful test run on the local light rail!