Mayor Bruce Harrell's recent executive order aims to expedite the construction of light rail connections to Ballard and West Seattle, a critical initiative following his "state of the city" address. The order, titled "Supporting and Expediting Sound Transit 3 Investments in the City of Seattle," seeks to streamline the permitting process for these major transit projects. Harrell's administration plans to introduce legislative changes in the coming years, focusing on land use code amendments and supportive property transactions. To bolster these efforts, the city will allocate $5. 2 million in 2025 and $6.

8 million in 2026 for hiring additional staff dedicated to design, permitting, and construction. Local publications, including the West Seattle Blog and My Ballard, report on the significance of this initiative and its potential impact on community transit. The executive order emphasizes the importance of rapid development in response to Seattle's growth and public transportation demands. With a team of 20 city employees currently focused on Sound Transit 3, the order promises to enhance staffing levels significantly. This proactive approach reflects a commitment to improving urban infrastructure and addressing the city's transportation challenges.