Seattle Now Will light rail across Lake Washington make Redmond cool?
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Mar 25, 2026 Andrew Villeneuve, founder of the Northwest Progressive Institute and local commentator, reflects on Redmond’s rail past and future. He talks about tapping light rail for stadium and airport trips. He discusses what draws riders to Redmond like Marymoor Park and new mixed‑use development. He also covers reliability concerns and how the Cross Lake Connection will be tested on opening day.
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Growing Up With Abandoned Tracks
- Andrew Villeneuve grew up watching abandoned railroad tracks in Redmond and wondered why the town lacked rail service.
- Seeing the newly built light rail where those tracks once lay felt like a dream fulfilled after decades of waiting.
Two-Seat All-Rail Commutes Replace Bus Gridlock
- Light rail replaces unreliable express-bus trips across Lake Washington by providing a two-seat, all-rail journey with no bus components.
- Andrew says the new two-line lets riders walk to the platform and transfer on rail to reach downtown Seattle or the airport reliably.
Existing Amenities Become Stronger With Rail
- Redmond's appeal already exists in amenities like Marymoor Park and Redmond Town Center, and light rail will make those draws easier to reach.
- Andrew cites Marymoor Village Station, nearby restaurants, and an IKEA pickup as concrete examples of local attractions benefiting from rail access.