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Blog

Transit news, commuter tips, and updates from the NextStop team.

4 min read

The 2 Line Finally Crosses the Lake — What Seattle Commuters Need to Know

After years of construction and delays, Sound Transit's 2 Line Crosslake Connection opens March 28. Here's what changes for your commute.

6 min read

Seattle Link Light Rail Expansion Map (2026–2035)

Where the system is now, what's coming next, and when. Ballard, Everett, infill stations, and a realistic take on the ST3 timeline.

5 min read

Real-Time Transit Displays: Are They Worth It?

I sell one of these, so take my opinion with a grain of salt. Who they're for, who they're not for, and when the $60 is worth it vs. a free phone widget.

4 min read

How to Check Seattle Light Rail Arrival Times (3 Easy Ways)

Three simple ways to check when the next Link Light Rail train arrives: transit apps, Sound Transit website, or a dedicated display. What works and what doesn't.

4 min read

Best Way to Track Seattle Bus Arrival Times in 2026

OneBusAway, Google Maps, station signs, text service, and always-on displays. How to track Seattle buses — when each method works best.

5 min read

Ghost Buses: Why Your Seattle Bus Never Showed Up

You checked the app. The bus was 3 minutes away. Then it vanished. Here's why ghost buses happen and what you can actually do about it.

3 min read

How to Know When to Leave for the Light Rail

Train arrives in X minutes, walk takes Y. Sounds simple, but people get it wrong constantly. Why it happens and how to actually nail it.

4 min read

How Reliable Is Seattle Light Rail, Really?

Link Light Rail runs on dedicated tracks, so it's more reliable than buses. But what actually causes delays? And how do you stay informed?

4 min read

Never Miss Your Train Again: How to See Live Seattle Transit Arrivals at Home

You're at home getting ready, checking your phone every 2 minutes. Three approaches to see bus and train times — and why a dedicated display beats alarms and app-checking.

4 min read

Why Checking Transit Apps Every Morning Is Annoying (And What to Do Instead)

Wake up, check the app. Get dressed, check again. Brush teeth, check again. Why we do it — and three better ways to know when to leave.

4 min read

The Case for Single-Task Devices in a Notification-Heavy World

Your phone can tell you when the bus comes. It can also pull you into email, Instagram, and a 20-minute Reddit spiral. There's a better way.

5 min read

Best Apps for Seattle Transit in 2026

A look at OneBusAway, Google Maps, Apple Maps, Transit, and when a dedicated display might be right for your commute.

5 min read

Capitol Hill Light Rail Guide: Schedules, Tips, and What's Nearby

Everything you need to know about Capitol Hill station — where it is, when trains run, and what's worth doing nearby. Written for Seattle commuters and visitors.

3 min read

How Early Does Seattle Light Rail Start Running?

First trains around 5am (6am Sundays), last trains around midnight. Frequency, weekend differences, and tips for early and late riders.

5 min read

Seattle Light Rail Map Explained: Every Stop on the 1 Line and 2 Line

A complete guide to every Link Light Rail station — north to south on the 1 Line, and east to Redmond on the 2 Line. Plus what changes when the Crosslake Connection opens.

7 min read

Seattle Transit Guide for New Residents

Seattle's transit system is better than most people expect. ORCA, Link, buses, ferries, apps, and practical tips from someone who uses it every day.