Sound Transit has kicked off an enhanced parking enforcement program at its Tukwila Sounder commuter train and light-rail park-and-ride lots in an effort to ensure these popular commuter areas are properly used.

The move comes after concerns expressed by Sounder commuter rail and ST Express bus riders that parking is overcrowded as a result of vehicles being parked overnight in lots, as well as other infractions.

The Tukwila Sounder station is located at 2100 Longacres Dr. S.W. The light-rail station is near Tukwila International Boulevard and South 154th Street. The address is 15426 35th Ave. S.

Sound Transit is hoping to open ahead of schedule another light-rail station at South 200th Street in SeaTac, in part, to relieve parking pressure on the Tukwila station.

Parking guidelines will be emphasized for vehicles parked:

• Over 24 hours
• In emergency lanes, "no parking" and loading zones
• In ADA-designated spaces, where a vehicle is not marked by a state-issued disabled parking placard or license plate
• In more than one parking space
• In a manner blocking other vehicles and/or pedestrian pathways

Starting Sunday, Jan. 23, cars that either exceed the 24-hour limit or fail to observe other regulations may be immediately towed.

The transit agency has installed additional signage at its busiest transit centers to advise lot users of parking regulations. Signs at other Sound Transit-operated locations will also be installed. Additional rider information is available at www.soundtransit.org under "How to Ride."