Hatch celebrates key role in Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension project at Sound Transit's stakeholder event

Tacoma, Washington, USA — Hatch was thrilled to join the Sound Transit Stakeholder Event on September 23, 2023, celebrating the highly anticipated opening of the Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension project. Hatch’s collaboration with Sound Transit has been instrumental in enhancing connectivity across the vibrant Hilltop neighborhood, redefining transportation options for the community.

The Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension project, a groundbreaking endeavor by Sound Transit, has successfully doubled the length of the Tacoma Link with the addition of six new stations. This expansion marks a significant step forward in improving access to major destinations, medical facilities, and popular locations within the city, resulting in a projected daily ridership of 2,000 to 4,000 by 2026.

“Hatch is honored to have contributed to the Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension project.” says Dominic DiBrito, Global Managing Director of Transit. “The project extends the Tacoma Link by 2.4 miles, adding six stations that connect the Theater District, Stadium District, and Hilltop neighborhood. The Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension is a testament to Sound Transit's commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure and community connectivity.”

Sound Transit faced unique challenges in creating an in-street running light rail extension while seamlessly integrating with existing infrastructure, accommodating road lanes, on-street parking, and bicycle facilities. To address these complexities, Hatch played a pivotal role as the systems designer of record. We provided the final design for critical components, including traction power substations, overhead contact systems, and rail signal systems.

Hatch also developed a comprehensive electrical system that ensured corrosion control, equipment grounding, and other critical aspects for seamless integration. Our team implemented innovative solutions such as a single-wire, fixed tension, overhead contact system, and advanced signaling for the mainline crossover and new rail yard. This forward-thinking approach extended to seamlessly integrating signal systems with the City of Tacoma's existing traffic infrastructure.

In addition to design contributions, Hatch provided essential design support during construction, ensuring the successful integration and testing of the systems. A highlight of our involvement is the development of a new traction power SCADA system that integrates new and existing substations. This system allows Sound Transit to monitor and control the entire Tacoma Link traction power system from the Operations and Maintenance Facility.

The Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension opened to the public on September 16, 2023.

For more information about Hatch's involvement in the Hilltop Tacoma Link Extension project, click here.

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For more information, please contact: 
Lindsay Janca 
Global Director, Public Relations, Hatch 
Tel: +1 905 403 4199 
Email: media@hatch.com 

About Hatch

Hatch is a global engineering, project management, and professional services firm. Whatever our clients envision, our professionals can design and build. With over six decades of business and technical experience in the energy, infrastructure, and mining sectors, we know your business and understand that your challenges are changing rapidly. We respond quickly with solutions that are smarter, more efficient and innovative. We rely upon our 10,000 staff with experience in over 150 countries to challenge the status quo and create positive change for our clients, our employees, and the communities we serve.

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