Sound Transit will add fare gates to busiest light rail stations

The public transit agency Sound Transit is planning to retrofit 14 of its busiest light rail stations with fare gates to make sure people pay before getting on the train.

By: Nate Sanford

Outlets: KNKX

Published: September 18, 2026

Words: 440

Last Updated: 3 hours, 11 minutes ago

Body Text Preview

The public agency Sound Transit is planning to retrofit 14 of its busiest light rail stations with fare gates to make sure people pay before getting on the train.

For years, the light rail has operated on an honor system, with fare ambassadors only rarely getting on trains to check for proof of payment. Sound Transit estimates that 63% of riders pay their fares — a decrease from around 85% before the pandemic.

Waiting for a train …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us