This test marks the first time in the world that a train powered across a floating bridge.
A Link light rail vehicle successfully crossed the I-90 floating bridge under its own power in Seattle, marking the first time in the world that a train powered across a floating bridge.
Train Crosses Floating Bridge
The test was conducted on the Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge, which carries Interstate 90 across Lake Washington. Sound Transit described the event as a “historic milestone,” as powering trains across a floating bridge is considered one of the most complex challenges in rail engineering.
According to Interesting Engineering, this feat has challenged engineers for decades. The East Link project began in 2016 and was originally scheduled to open in 2023. Though budget and technical setbacks pushed the timeline back, this successful test crossing marks a major milestone in the effort to link Seattle and its Eastside communities.
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