Sound Transit Investigates Fish Die-Off Linked to Lake Washington Light Rail Bridge.
Joy Ale
September 6, 2026
Sound Transit Investigates Fish Die-Off Linked to Lake Washington Light Rail Bridge
Photo Credit: Steve A Johnson
It has been estimated that about 2,000 fish have died linked to the electrical protection system on Sound Transit’s I-90 floating light rail bridge. According to Sound Transit CEO Dow Constantine, most of the fish killed were invasive, specifically perch and bass, although a small number of salmon were also affected.
The investigation linked these sudden deaths to a set of submerged anodes that were sitting directly on the lake floor. In response, all 32 of these cables were raised by the crews.
Sound Transit was alerted to this issue on August 3; however, they informed the public about this development a month later. This has caused dissatisfaction among residents, who have expressed their shock and frustration. Sound Transit stated that information was withheld from the public as it was still a developing issue.
According to Sound Transit, the agency has already begun its investigation to determine the root cause and develop a permanent solution.
