The Hilltop Tacoma light rail extension, a project by the Puget Sound Regional Transit Authority (Sound Transit), has recently been opened. With a price tag of $282.7 million, this extension more than doubles the length of the T Line, bringing significant economic benefits to the area.
The extension includes one relocated station at Old City Hall and the addition of six new stations, connecting Tacoma’s downtown core to the Tacoma Dome District’s transit hub. One of the key outcomes of this project has been the revitalization and development of the Hilltop neighborhood.
The new Tacoma Link light rail stop at South 11th Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way in the Hilltop neighborhood has acted as a catalyst for multifamily development. According to the Puget Sound Business Journal, Tacoma has seen the addition of 942 new living units along the line, with many already completed or currently in the construction process.
The extension of the T Line was initially envisioned as a driver of economic development for the region. It was estimated that the project would bring $250 million in economic benefits to the area. The City of Tacoma’s business development manager, Patricia Beard, highlighted the positive impact of the project, stating that it has contributed to the growth of the city and the creation of new living spaces.
This investment in light rail infrastructure not only improves transportation options for residents but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth. The increased accessibility and connectivity provided by the Hilltop Tacoma light rail extension have attracted developers and investors to the area, leading to an increase in housing and commercial development opportunities.
Overall, the Hilltop Tacoma light rail extension has proven to be a valuable investment, with significant economic benefits and the rejuvenation of the Hilltop neighborhood. It is an example of how strategic transportation projects can create positive ripple effects for communities, spurring economic development and enhancing quality of life.
Definitions:
– Puget Sound Regional Transit Authority (Sound Transit): A public transit agency that serves the Puget Sound region in Washington State.
– T Line: The light rail line in Tacoma, Washington.
– Hilltop neighborhood: A neighborhood in Tacoma, known for its historic homes and diverse community.
– Economic development: The process of improving economic conditions and quality of life in a specific area.
Sources:
– Puget Sound Business Journal (https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2021/10/24/tacoma-hilltop-light-rail-economic-development.html)