Sound Transit is weighing a proposed 1% property-tax increase as it faces a projected funding shortfall of $22 to $30 billion for its ambitious light-rail expansion plans across the Seattle region. The proposal was reviewed during a public discussion held on Thursday, with a final vote by the agency’s board scheduled for October 23.

The tax adjustment, intended to preserve construction timelines and offset rising costs driven by inflation, would add approximately $6 million to the agency’s revenue. Combined with an additional $5 million from new construction, the proposal is part of a broader strategy to close the funding gap that threatens to delay or scale back critical transit infrastructure projects.

Stephanie Ball, Sound Transit’s Director of Financial Planning and Analysis, emphasized the stakes of the decision, noting that failure to implement the levy could cost the agency up to $47 million by 2046. “This increase is essential to maintain our commitments,” she explained during the hearing.

The new levy would raise the total 2026 property-tax collection to $183 million, a 3.8% increase over current levels. This funding is part of a larger $3.3 billion budget proposed for 2026, which earmarks $1.9 billion for system expansion and $1.6 billion for operations. Sound Transit’s long-term vision includes building 116 miles of new light-rail track by 2046, a key component of the regional transit plan.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell, who sits on the Sound Transit board, acknowledged the financial pressures facing the agency and expressed support for exploring all available funding options. “We need to take a close look at every lever we can pull to keep projects on track,” he said.

Public feedback during the hearing reflected both support and concern. John Walser, a retired architect and frequent transit rider, voiced approval for expanding the rail system but questioned the affordability of increased property taxes for residents. “I want to see the rail system grow, but we have to be mindful of the burden on homeowners,” he said.

Sound Transit expects to collect $2.4 billion in tax revenue next year, but officials say that without adjustments, the current trajectory of costs could outpace available funds. The board will continue to review financial projections and public input in the weeks leading up to the October 23 vote.

For now, the proposed levy remains under consideration, with agency leaders urging stakeholders to weigh the long-term benefits of sustained transit investment against the immediate impact on taxpayers.