Harger: Sound Transit is bleeding money while Seattle debates fare gates. San Francisco just showed us exactly what they do

Sound Transit is considering a $34 million pilot program to install fare gates at five downtown Seattle stations (Westlake, Capitol Hill, UW, University District, Northgate), with a board decision expected by Q2 2026. Currently, only 61% of Link riders pay their fare. The commentary cites San Francisco’s BART system, which spent $90 million on fare gates and recovered $10 million annually while reducing crime 41% and maintenance issues. This affects South King County transit riders and Sound Transit’s regional funding plans.