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Issaquah Today
By the People, for the People
Issaquah Fears Light Rail Lifeline May Be Cut Amid Sound Transit Funding Woes
Downtown Issaquah group warns planned South Kirkland-Issaquah Link could be delayed or canceled as agency faces multi-billion budget shortfall.
Published on Feb. 17, 2026
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Leaders in Issaquah are sounding the alarm that the city's long-anticipated light rail connection may be at risk as Sound Transit grapples with a major funding shortfall. The planned South Kirkland-Issaquah extension from the 2016 ST3 package is now projected to open no earlier than 2041 and possibly as late as 2044, raising concerns that stations local businesses and residents have planned around for years could be postponed, reduced, or potentially cut altogether.
Why it matters
The light rail connection was expected to shorten commutes and anchor growth around downtown Issaquah, and the city has already begun station-area planning work. Voters approved ST3 in 2016 and have been paying into the package ever since, making the potential delays or cancellation especially concerning for the local community.
The details
Sound Transit is currently managing the South Kirkland-Issaquah Link project toward a 2041 delivery date, but notes that service could slide to 2044 if it cannot close the 'affordability gap' caused by surging construction and real estate costs. The agency is facing a multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall that could reshape Eastside projects, including Issaquah's planned light rail line.
- The South Kirkland-Issaquah Link was part of the 2016 ST3 package approved by voters.
- Sound Transit is currently managing the project toward a 2041 delivery date.
- The agency notes service could slide to 2044 if the 'affordability gap' cannot be closed.
The players
Downtown Issaquah Association
A local group that is warning the community about the potential delays or cancellation of the planned light rail connection.
Sound Transit
The regional transit agency responsible for the South Kirkland-Issaquah Link project, which is facing a multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall.
City of Issaquah
The local government that has already begun station-area planning work around the anticipated light rail line.
What they’re saying
“If you care about mobility, economic vitality, and Issaquah's future, this is the moment to show up. Let's make our voices heard.”
— Downtown Issaquah Association (KIRO 7)
What’s next
The Downtown Issaquah Association is hosting a community meeting next Tuesday in Council Chambers at City Hall South, where residents will have the opportunity to hear directly from Sound Transit staff about the potential impacts of the funding shortfall on the planned light rail project.
The takeaway
The potential delays or cancellation of the South Kirkland-Issaquah Link light rail project have raised serious concerns in the Issaquah community, which has been counting on the connection to improve mobility and spur economic growth. The situation highlights the challenges facing regional transit agencies as they grapple with rising costs and budget shortfalls, and underscores the importance of public engagement and advocacy to ensure critical infrastructure projects are delivered as promised to local communities.
