The wait for light rail in Snohomish County is almost over. Starting Aug. 30, the 1 Line will have four new stations in Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, and Lynnwood.
This expansion also means there will be more new riders using the system. If that’s you, read on for the basics on riding Link and get insight on the best way to pay, advice on transferring transit services, and what a good passenger looks like.
Get an ORCA card
An ORCA card is the easiest way to pay for your ride. Available for $3 at a ticket machine or on the Google Wallet, you can load it with cash value or a pass to pay your fare.
Also, an ORCA card is the only way to get free transfers between different services, like trains, buses, and streetcars. It works with Community Transit, King County Metro, Seattle Streetcar, Seattle Monorail, and more. Just tap the yellow card reader before taking Link and boarding the bus within a two-hour window.
Learn more about the ORCA card and what fare is for you.
Plan your route
Now that you’ve got an ORCA card, do you know where you’re going? Or when will the train arrive? Where are the bus connections? We recommend planning your trip so you know where you’re going and how much time you have. The Sound Transit Trip Planner is an excellent tool for setting your route. The tool has accurate light rail schedules and other regional transit services.
The 1 Line will have wait times between 8 to 15 minutes, depending on the time of day. After taping your ORCA card and entering the platform, always check the electronic display for the next train’s arrival time. Additionally, always give yourself a little room between transferring services so you’re not in a rush.
Be a good passenger
Public transit is a shared space, so respect the area and the people around you. Don’t harass other riders or damage the trains or station property. Allow people with disabilities and senior citizens priority seats. Let passengers exit the train before boarding. Stay behind the yellow line. Trains can’t stop, but you can. Follow the rules and courtesies that help keep us all safe, physically and psychologically.
Overall, we’re excited to see more riders on Link. We hope these tips help you reach your destination safely and smoothly.