Spanning 3.7 miles through three cities and two counties, the Lynnwood Link Extension L300 is more than a light rail expansion—it’s a testament of construction excellence. Skanska delivered the project on time and within budget despite immense challenges, earning it the Grand Award in this year’s Build America Awards.
From the start, access was limited to just 40% of the alignment. Skanska’s phased construction and early work packages kept progress moving. The team navigated a global microchip shortage by installing escalators ahead of delivery and performing final tests onsite, avoiding six months of delays. They also cut full freeway closures by 75% through a custom-engineered falsework design, easing impacts on I-5 – one of the most heavily trafficked corridors in the area.
Sensitive wetlands and tribal lands along the route demanded innovative environmental solutions. Skanska preserved nearly untouched natural areas by building trestles and alternative access roads that minimized ecological disruption. Foremen even trained at a local fish hatchery to understand the project’s environmental footprint firsthand.
The project logged over 3.6 million work hours with an outstanding safety record and launched mental health initiatives, including a jobsite-first “Green Sticker” program for trained peer support. Beyond safety, Skanska empowered diverse local workers, mentored new tradespeople, and consistently adapted to serve community and agency partners.
In every way, Lynnwood Link L300 raised the bar—delivering not just infrastructure, but impact. Congratulations to the entire project team on this remarkable job!