Jacobs Solutions Wins Design Contract for West Seattle Link Extension Project
- Jacobs Solutions has secured the design contract for Sound Transit’s West Seattle Link Extension, enhancing Seattle's light rail network.
- The project includes a new bridge, tunnel, and four stations, reducing travel times by up to 50%.
- Jacobs aims to stimulate economic growth and promote community development through improved mobility and new retail opportunities.

Jacobs Solutions Secures Key Design Contract for West Seattle Link Extension
Jacobs Solutions, a global leader in professional services, has been awarded the design contract for Sound Transit’s West Seattle Link Extension, a pivotal project that aims to enhance Seattle’s light rail network. This extension will span 4.1 miles, featuring a new bridge, tunnel, and four stations, directly connecting the SODO neighborhood to West Seattle’s Alaska Junction. As part of this initiative, Jacobs will oversee Phase 1 design and validation, with operations projected to commence in 2032. The extension is anticipated to significantly reduce travel times on major routes by up to 50%, offering a crucial alternative to the West Seattle Bridge during peak hours.
Jacobs Executive Vice President Ron Williams underscores the company’s long-standing dedication to transportation solutions in the Puget Sound area. Over the past 70 years, Jacobs has contributed to approximately 30 miles of light rail expansions for Sound Transit. This latest project not only focuses on improving mobility but also aims to stimulate economic growth and community development. With new stations planned, there is an emphasis on creating retail opportunities and promoting affordable housing in the vicinity, fostering a more inclusive and accessible environment for residents.
The West Seattle Link Extension reflects Jacobs’ broader commitment to addressing complex global challenges and advancing sustainable urban development. With annual revenues nearing $12 billion and a workforce of around 45,000, Jacobs provides a wide array of services encompassing transportation and urban planning. The firm’s approach aligns with its mission to create connected and thriving communities, ensuring that infrastructure projects like this one contribute positively to both the economy and the quality of life for residents in the region.
In other industry news, global consulting firm J.S. Held recently garners acclaim for its expertise across multiple categories, including arbitration expert witnesses and forensic consulting. The firm boasts a workforce of over 1,500 professionals and serves clients globally, including a majority of the Global 200 Law Firms. Their recognition underscores their commitment to delivering scientific and technical rigor in complex investigations, reinforcing their position as a trusted resource in crisis and risk management.
Additionally, Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has announced the acquisition of Equinox Agency, enhancing its employee health and benefits consulting capabilities in the Lehigh Valley. This acquisition is part of Gallagher's strategy to expand its footprint in the benefits consulting sector, reinforcing its commitment to high-quality client service.