Late last year, we concluded the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) scoping comment period for the Ballard Link Extension (BLE). The 45-day scoping comment period occurred from Oct. 24 to Dec. 9, 2024.
During the scoping period, we sought feedback on the Purpose and Need, alternatives, and potential topics to study in the new BLE Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Throughout the comment period, we received 166 comments through various channels, including two in-person events, an online form, emails, and voicemails.
What’s next?
We will publish a NEPA Draft EIS / State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Supplemental Draft EIS, called the BLE Draft EIS. The BLE Draft EIS will carry forward the alternatives included in the 2022 West Seattle and Ballard Link Extensions (WSBLE) Draft EIS and study the new and refined alternatives the Sound Transit Board identified in March and July 2023 following a period of further studies. The BLE Draft EIS will build upon feedback received during the 2019 WSBLE EIS scoping period, the 2022 WSBLE Draft EIS comment period, the extensive engagement since the publication of the WSBLE Draft EIS, and the BLE scoping period this fall.
We expect to publish the BLE Draft EIS in 2025. Once it is published, you’ll have the opportunity to review and provide feedback during a public comment period. We’ll share updates through emails, blog posts, and community events to keep you informed and engaged. Stay tuned for announcements about public meetings, updates via email and our website, and other engagement opportunities.
