STart - Sound Transit Art Program

Sound Transit allocates 1% of project construction costs to incorporate the work and thinking of artists in major facilities the agency builds. Over 80 art projects have been completed and more are on the way. Art within the regional transit system includes signature art, functional integrated art and temporary art that all contribute to a sense of place. Sound Transit's Art Program (STart) works with local communities, design professionals and transit partners to select artists and artworks appropriate for each project.

It has long been recognized that the sensitive use of art and design in transit systems and construction gives vibrancy to public spaces and encourages civic engagement.  But more recently, the power of art as a tool in establishing relationships with the community has been recognized. Through a community involving process, the community also develops a sense of ownership and pride that can carry over beyond design and construction and make them partners in maintaining the facility.  Just as Sound Transit is building a regional transit system to link the communities of this region, it has structured a public art program that enhances these linkages. 

401 S. Jackson St
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: (206) 398-5000
Fax: (206) 689-3301
Email: start@soundtransit.org
Website: www.soundtransit.org/start
Contact: Jennifer Babuca