Project updates
Learn about where and when construction is happening throughout the ST district.
East Link Extension Mercer Island Station

You've got rail! Rail delivery begins on Mercer Island

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East Link construction has reached a milestone as rail has arrived on Mercer Island and is the first East Link project to do so. Approximately 15 miles of rail have been delivered to the work zone on Mercer Island. Approximately 28 miles (or 148,800 feet) of rail will be installed between the International District / Chinatown Station and the East Channel Bridge. Rail welding and grinding will begin in the coming weeks to prepare for installation. Check out some additional progress photos below.

Rail being delivered to the construction site east of the Mercer Island station.

Rail being delivered to the construction site east of the Mercer Island station.

Rail arrives near the Mercer Island tunnel. These rails will be ground, wielded together and installed.

Rail arrives near the Mercer Island tunnel. These rails will be ground, wielded together and installed.

Work progresses on the foundation and elevator shaft for the east head house at 80th Avenue Southeast.

Work progresses on the foundation and elevator shaft for the east head house at 80th Avenue Southeast.

City of Bellevue Fire Department practices rescue drills on the floating bridge.

City of Bellevue Fire Department practices rescue drills on the floating bridge.

Looking ahead

Structural steel has begun to arrive as the west head house will begin to take shape. In June and July, crews will post-tension the Homer M. Hadley Bridge, which will require overnight westbound closures. More information about these closures will be available in the coming weeks.

There will be no ramp or lane closures during the Memorial Day holiday, from 12 p.m. Friday, May 25, until 12 p.m. Tuesday, May 29. Planned closures will resume on Tuesday, May 29 at 12 p.m.