The naming process for three new stations is nearing completion, and “Highline” is being considered for one of them.
The stations are projected to open in 2024, and are located near Kent/Des Moines Road South, near South 272nd Street, and near the Federal Way Transit Center.
Highline Station and Highline College Station are potential names for the station near Kent/Des Moines Road and just east of campus, along with Midway Station and Kent-Des Moines Station. Star Lake Station is being considered for the station near South 272nd Street, while Downtown Federal Way Station and Federal Way Downtown Station are some options for the station near the Federal Way Transit Center.
The process for choosing a name for these stations began in 2019, and involves cities, stakeholders, and the public. There is a policy set by Sound Transit that needs to be followed when selecting a name, and was updated in 2021 to Resolution No. R2021-14
“Compared to R2012-02, this policy is more focused on industry best practices and passenger wayfinding than previously, with a goal of providing better staff guidance, avoiding rework, and ensuring station names prioritize wayfinding and a positive passenger experience,” said Sound Transit in their official policy statement, which can be found on their website, https://www.soundtransit.org/sites/default/files/documents/Resolution-R2021-14.pdf?utm_campaign=pu-federalway-20220412&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery.
To help make finding where passengers are going easier and to reduce confusion, the policy is also focusing on shortening the names and focusing on local landmarks or geographical location.
After allowing the cities and stakeholders to narrow down the shortlisted names that comply with their policy, Sound Transit is reaching out to the general public to get further input.
Highline President Dr. John Mosby expressed his preference for the name on Wednesday.
“Anything with Highline in the title,” he said.
The Sound Transit Board is hoping to settle on a name by May 2022, but the last day for the public to give input is April 19. To contribute to the final name decision, you can leave a voicemail at 206-398-5465 or email at fwle@soundtransit.org.