Overview

Sound Transit manages the 26-mile Link Light Rail, a modern light rail system serving the Seattle metropolitan area. The Link connects Northgate and Angle Lake, with plans for future expansion.

Construction on the Link began in 2003 and completed in 2009, marking the culmination of a complex development history. This journey included overcoming challenges such as rejected ballot measures, financial management issues, and planning obstacles. The system also weathered executive resignations and a federal audit.

Despite these hurdles, the Link Light Rail now stands as a vital transportation artery, efficiently moving passengers throughout the Seattle region. Sound Transit's leadership and the community's perseverance have transformed this ambitious project into a reality, providing a sustainable and accessible transit option for residents and visitors alike.

Problem to solve

Link light rail has experienced a few financial and operational problems over the years and as a result, people have lost trust in the link system. The current brand is not individualized from the greater public transportation system of Seattle.

Research & insight

I discovered how integral how link light rail is for travelers in Seattle. The expansion of tracks is like veins in the human body because like veins, the tracks are part of a connected network needed for the system to function.

My visuals were based off this idea. The graphic line elements that I used were continuous, smooth flowing tracks that moved individual shapes within it. All the shapes within the lines were in alignment, moving together, throughout the system.

Sketched concepts

Concept Board

Solution

The new brand states that Link is there to move Seattle, and invites people to hop on. The visuals create a sense of fluid movement where graphic elements flow together in a warm and welcoming environment.