First new light-rail vehicle unveiled for Sound Transit's Hilltop Tacoma Link

The first of five new vehicles supporting Sound Transit's Hilltop Tacoma Link extension were unveiled.

The five new vehicles are part of a $26.5 million contract with BROOKVILLE Equipment Corporation that will more than double the existing fleet.

Each of the 66-foot cars is designed to carry more than 100 passengers. The eight-foot-wide car has seating for up to 26 passengers with accessibility seating for passengers with bikes and wheelchairs.

"The extension of Tacoma Link to the Hilltop will transform how folks are able to get around the city," said Sound Transit Board Chair and University Place Councilmember Kent Keel. "People can leave their cars at home with greater access to the T Line, Sounder commuter trains and ST Express buses. I’m looking forward to being on the first train when we open in 2023."

The 2.4-mile Hilltop extension includes one relocated station and six new stations. Passengers will have access to Wright Park and major medical facilities. The project also included an expansion of Sound Transit’s Operations and Maintenance Facility in Tacoma.

"The addition of these new cars is particularly meaningful for us, since Tacoma Link was Sound Transit’s first light-rail line when it opened in 2003," said Sound Transit Deputy CEO Kimberly Farley. "Here we are nearly 20 years later, marking its success with this exciting extension before us."

Hilltop Tacoma Link is scheduled to open for service in the first quarter of 2023.