City of Seattle Launches $23 Million Modernization and Accessibility Project at Seattle Center Monorail Station

SEATTLE, Washington — The City of Seattle and the Seattle Center administration have officially broken ground on a comprehensive $23 million capital modernization project at the historic Seattle Center Monorail station on September 25, 2026. The phased transit overhaul aims to significantly expand passenger capacity, upgrade safety infrastructure, and deliver universal accessibility across the iconic elevated transit link connecting downtown Seattle to Uptown.

The engineering scope involves widening boarding concourses, installing automated high-capacity fare turnstiles, and adding twin high-speed elevators to provide full step-free accessibility for passengers with disabilities and families with strollers. Upgrades also encompass the structural installation of weather-resilient glass canopies and advanced seismic reinforcement along the station’s elevated concrete pylons to accommodate surging passenger volumes traveling to concerts, festivals, and sporting events at Climate Pledge Arena.

Seattle transit officials confirmed that passenger service aboard the monorail will continue during daytime operations throughout the project's duration, with heavy structural work scheduled during specialized overnight windows. Slated for phased completion in late 2027, the modernization ensures the 1962 World’s Fair transit system remains an enduring, dependable mobility link for millions of annual commuters and visitors.