Federal Way Link Extension Transforms Des Moines Into Seattle Commuter Hub

Sound Transit crews completed track laying on the final 2.4-mile segment of the Federal Way Link Extension on June 28, connecting the new Des Moines station directly to the Angle Lake stop.

The timing aligns with King County’s updated growth targets that require 18,000 additional housing units south of Seattle by 2030. Higher downtown office occupancy rates this spring pushed more workers to seek lower-cost homes outside the city while keeping daily commutes under 45 minutes.

The new Des Moines station sits three blocks from the former Midway sewer plant site now rezoned for 1,200 apartments. Commuters from there will reach the International District station in 22 minutes and connect to the Capitol Hill line without changing trains. Local planners also tied the station to the existing King County Metro Route 166 stop at South 216th Street and Pacific Highway, creating a single-ticket transfer to West Seattle via the Spokane Street Viaduct.

Housing prices and buyer data

Redfin recorded 47 single-family home sales in Des Moines zip code 98198 during the second quarter of 2026 at a median price of $512,000, up 9 percent from the same period last year. Sound Transit’s 2025 annual report showed average weekday boardings on the existing 1 Line at 82,400, with the Federal Way segment projected to add 14,000 daily riders once service begins in December.

Three builders have permits for townhouse projects within a half-mile of the station, each required to include 10 percent units priced below 80 percent of area median income under the city’s new inclusionary zoning rule adopted in March.

Service start and commuting options

Sound Transit will begin pre-revenue testing on the extension in September, with full passenger service scheduled for December 14. Residents can sign up now for the agency’s e-mail alerts on parking permits at the 400-space Des Moines garage and for real-time arrival data through the Sound Transit app. King County Metro will add two morning express buses from the same station to the ferry terminal at Colman Dock starting in October to handle overflow demand.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.