At an Aug. 28 press conference, Sound Transit Chief Executive Officer, Dow Constantine announced that the Federal Way Link Extension will launch on Saturday, Dec. 6 with service to the new stations beginning at 11 a.m.
This 7.8-mile extension includes the Kent Des Moines station, located directly across from Highline College’s main campus. The new 1 Line extension also includes stations at Star Lake and Downtown Federal Way, only blocks away from Highline’s branch campus, The Hub: Federal Way Higher Education Center.
This transformative expansion marks a giant step toward a more connected and beneficial future for all residents and Highline College anticipates the far-reaching effects of this project.
“For more than 60 years, Highline College has been an engine of economic mobility for our community members. That engine is getting a big bump in power with the opening of the Federal Way Link Extension and the Kent-Des Moines Station directly across from our main campus,” said Highline College President, Dr. John Mosby. “We’re excited for the increase in access to higher education and the connected resources that light rail brings for members of our community.”
Federal Way Mayor, Jim Ferrell, added, “It’s more than just a station. It’s a gateway for a more connected, successful future for everyone who lives, works and does business in South King County.”
Celebrate the Grand Opening on Dec. 6
Grand opening celebrations and ribbon-cuttings will take place at the three new stations and are open to all community members.
The Kent Des Moines station celebrations take place 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and will feature seven themed “gardens” highlighting local culture, innovation and community, including interactive art and history exhibits, food trucks, a stage with live performances, and children’s programming.
The celebration is a collaboration between Sound Transit, Highline College, the Success Foundation/Southside Seattle Chamber of Commerce, the City of Des Moines and the City of Kent.