Tacoma: Statement from District 4 Council Member Sandesh Sadalge on the Critical Importance of Centering Equity in Regional Transit Decisions

~ The future of regional transit is at a critical juncture as the Sound Transit Board grapples with a $34.5 billion budget deficit. The decision they make will have far-reaching implications for the entire region, beyond just trains and light rail.

One option being considered to address the budget shortfall is delaying the Tacoma Dome light rail extension. This proposal has sparked frustration and anger among some members of the community, including City Council member, Jane Smith.

In a recent news article, Smith was quoted expressing her anger towards the potential delay, stating that she was "pretty pissed off" during a Tacoma City Council meeting on March 31, 2026. However, Smith wants to provide context for her frustration and explain why this issue is so important to her and her constituents.

During a Council study session earlier that day, Smith highlighted the historic pattern of inequity that often occurs when governments face scarcity. She emphasized that those in positions of power tend to prioritize the needs of the "haves" while neglecting the "have-nots". Delaying the Tacoma Dome extension would only perpetuate this cycle of inequity.

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Smith believes that investments in high-capacity transit should be centered in areas where it will have the most transformative impact on working families. As she represents the Eastside of Tacoma, she argues that this area is exactly where such investments are needed. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, only 11% of Eastside residents were able to work remotely compared to 40% in other parts of town. This means that a majority of residents must physically commute to their jobs and many have to travel outside of the city for work.

The reliance on automobiles (82%) and HOV lanes (15%) for commuting highlights the need for alternative transportation options in this area. Smith points out that while walking and biking are popular modes of transportation in other parts of town, they are not feasible options for Eastside residents due to the lack of infrastructure and safety concerns. This is where light rail could make a significant difference, providing a much-needed economic boost for the district.

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The Eastside of Tacoma is a diverse community, with a majority of BIPOC residents and a median household income that is only two-thirds of other areas in the city. It is also an area that has historically been underinvested in, leading to persistent voter apathy and low turnout. To address this issue, the City of Tacoma has made equity a priority in all its work, using an Equity Index to inform decision-making and close opportunity gaps.

Smith believes that Sound Transit should follow suit and prioritize equity in their decision-making process. She argues that now is the time to make transformational change for the region by connecting those with the least resources to the regional transportation system.

In conclusion, Smith urges the Sound Transit Board to consider the long-term impact of their decision on future generations. She believes that prioritizing equity and investing in underserved communities will leave behind a positive legacy for years to come. The question remains, what history will the Sound Transit Board make? Will they choose to perpetuate inequity or prioritize transformative change? The answer will have significant implications for the future of regional transit.

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