South King County is celebrating a major transportation milestone as Sound Transit officially opened three new Link light rail stations: Federal Way Downtown, Star Lake, and Kent Des Moines. The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured community leaders, transit officials, and riders gathering outside the new Federal Way Downtown Station to mark the expansion’s launch.
The event included confetti, balloons, and a strong sense of community pride as Sound Transit welcomed riders to the new stations, which are now open for full travel. The expanded service is expected to significantly improve regional mobility, reduce congestion, and offer residents more reliable transit options throughout the South King corridor.
Officials emphasized that this expansion is part of a broader effort to connect more neighborhoods with high-capacity transit, supporting long-term economic growth and easing commutes for thousands of daily riders.
Celebrations continue at the newly opened stations throughout the day as Sound Transit encourages the public to explore the expanded Link network.
Hello, South King County! The ribbon has been cut, the confetti
has flown, and three new Link light rail stations are open for travel. The celebration isn’t over. Follow for more at Federal Way Downtown, Star Lake and Kent Des Moines stations🎉#1Line #SoundTransit #SouthKingLink pic.twitter.com/C2ACZ8nXFh— Sound Transit – 🚆 🚈 🚍 (@SoundTransit) December 6, 2025