In a meeting held on February 27th, 2025, the Sound Transit Board of Directors made significant decisions regarding the West Seattle and Ballard Link Extensions, voting to authorize the CEO to acquire property rights for both projects.These actions, contingent upon receiving necessary federal approvals, mark an important step forward in the development of these extensions. These early acquisitions are primarily targeting right of way properties.

The decision regarding the West Seattle Link Extension involves acquiring property rights from three properties adjacent to the Delridge Station site. This follows the board's selection of the project to be built in October 2024 and the early acquisition approval for the Delridge Station site in March 2024. The resolution, known as R2025-03, allows the chief executive officer to acquire certain real property interests, including acquisition by condemnation if authorized by law, and to reimburse eligible relocation and reestablishment expenses for affected owners and tenants.

During the public comment period, West Seattle resident Marilyn Kennell voiced her opposition, urging the board to vote against resolution 2025-036. Kennell expressed concerns about the project's economic, environmental, and societal impacts on the community, highlighting the potential loss of food sources and the disruption caused by construction. "We have urged you to have a town hall here in West Seattle," Kennel stated, emphasizing the need for community dialogue and careful consideration. "My neighbors have been under threat of eminent domain for three and a half years...the community is going to be gutted". Kennel implored the board to "take your time, learn more about it, and please come and talk to us" rather than rubber-stamping the decision.

Conversely, the board also heard from Erin Rubin, the owner of Mode Music Studios, who spoke about the need for early acquisition of the properties. Rubin is the owner of Mode Music Studios and founder/managing director of the non-profit Mode Music and Performing Arts. Both organizations will be displaced by the West Seattle Link Extension in North Delridge. With the recently announced delay of the Record of Decision until April 29, Rubin urged the board to vote for an early acquisition of properties left out of a previous plan. "Early acquisition will mean access to funds, resources, and allow us to move into a building of our choice". Rubin emphasized the specific needs of Mode Music Studios, such as soundproofing, and expressed concerns about the inadequacy of relocation funding.

The board also approved resolution R2025-04 for the Ballard Link Extension, which authorizes the CEO to acquire property rights from one property near the Seattle Center. This acquisition is considered a protective measure due to the risk of imminent redevelopment. Sound Transit staff has requested approval from the Federal Transit Administration to acquire the property before completing the environmental review. Like the West Seattle resolution, this action includes the possibility of condemnation and reimbursement for relocation expenses.