Metro, regional buses connect you to new 1 Line stations in Federal Way
Link light rail has arrived in Federal Way!
On Dec. 6, you can join Sound Transit’s Link 1 Line ribbon-cutting celebration at Federal Way Downtown Station to mark the opening of three new light rail stations: Kent Des Moines, Star Lake and Federal Way Downtown. Service officially begins once the ribbon is cut, extending the 1 Line another 8 miles and stretching from Lynnwood to Federal Way.
King County Metro, Pierce Transit and Sound Transit operate 17 bus routes serving the new 1 Line stations, making it easy for riders in South County communities and neighborhoods to connect with the regional transit network.
- Federal Way Downtown Station: Routes from three transit agencies will provide connections to the Link 1 Line at this station:
- Kent Des Moines Station: Metro routes 165 and RapidRide A Line will provide connections to the Link 1 Line via Pacific Highway.
- Star Lake Station:
- Metro Route 183 will serve a new temporary stop outside of the station on S 272nd
- Plan your trip: Visit Metro’s Trip Planner or a third-party app and enter when and where you want to travel. Metro Customer Service can also help at 206-553-3000.
- When is my bus departing? At the bus or transit stop, text your bus stop number to 62550 or use a third-party app like “One Bus Away” or Google Maps in transit mode to see when your bus is departing.
- More improvements on the horizon in 2026. Metro’s South Link Connections project has worked with riders and residents to redesign bus service and the transit network.
Celebrating the arrival
Join Sound Transit’s festivities and ribbon-cutting ceremony Sat., Dec. 6. Visit Sound Transit’s website for event details. Be ready with your ORCA card, or pick one up at a ticket vending machine and explore your fare options before riding.
Federal Way Downtown Station
9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.: The Federal Way Black Collective is hosting a community street fair where you can connect with local community organizations, listen to live music and enjoy a Kids Zone featuring carnival games and a holiday craft workshop. Metro will have a table at the Downtown Station, be sure to stop by, say hi and learn more about—and sign up for—our Free Youth Transit Pass!
Star Lake Station
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Join Project Feast to celebrate Feast for Trains! The celebration will have multicultural stage performances, curated food vendors, live cooking demonstrations, commemorative giveaways, kids’ activities, and so much more.
Kent Des Moines Station
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.: The station is hosting a family-friendly celebration featuring seven themed “gardens” highlighting local culture, innovation and community, including interactive art and history exhibits, food trucks, live performances, and youth-led activities.
Guests can explore community resources, meet local businesses, and enjoy performances from regional schools and cultural groups.
Sign up for information and alerts
Want more information on South Link Connections?
Additional changes are coming in the spring and fall of 2026. The South Link Connections webpage can provide background information and updates on the work taking place to connect transit to Link stations. You can also stay up to date by signing up to receive project alerts.
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