Tacoma Link Lightrail

Crystal Structures, in partnership with Lacey Glass of Lacey, WA, completed a unique train car washing facility as part of the $217 million Tacoma Link Extension project. The all-glass wash bay was a striking addition to the train’s operations and maintenance facilities, serving to keep the trains clean and attractive for passengers.

The eye-catching glass train wash measured an impressive 22′ x 81′ and featured insulated tempered glass and Crystal Structures’ 750-series, thermally enhanced framing system. This beacon of beauty stood out among the surrounding machinery and industrial equipment.

Crystal Structures collaborated with Lacey Glass to ensure the project was completed on budget and on time. Lacey Glass’ local crew, already familiar with the rules and regulations of working in the Sound Transit train yard, proved invaluable during the installation process.

Phil Zeutenhort, Lacey Glass President, commented on the challenges faced during installation: “It was a challenging install because we weren’t allowed to use a boom lift over the trains, said Phil Zeutenhort, Lacey Glass President. “We had to get creative and the weather wasn’t great.”

Despite these obstacles, Crystal Structures and Lacey Glass successfully navigated through any fabrication issues that arose early in the project. Zeutenhort expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, stating, “We were able to navigate through any fabrication issues that came up early on in the project,” he said. “We ended up with a good relationship when the project was done and that says a lot.”

The completion of this unique glass train wash marked a significant achievement for Crystal Structures and Lacey Glass. It is believed that the Tacoma Link was the first business in the world to own a glass train wash at the time, setting a new standard for train maintenance facilities.