Seattle, September 4, 2025
News Summary
This roundup offers homeowners a practical, step-by-step guide to hire a contractor, including defining scope, vetting, verifying licenses and comparing itemized quotes. It also covers Seattle project news: a major design firm was chosen for final design work on the West Seattle Link Extension, northbound I‑5 over the Ship Canal Bridge is reduced to two lanes for preservation work, and a local startup building quoting software for HVAC and home-service contractors raised $3.7M. Together these items highlight the importance of clear communication, accountability and local planning for better outcomes in homes and transit.
Seattle construction and transit roundup: how to hire contractors, a major light-rail design award, I‑5 bridge work and a local startup funding update
Quick take: Homeowners get a practical, step-by-step guide to hiring reliable contractors. In Seattle project news, a major design firm was tapped to lead final design work on the West Seattle Link Extension, northbound I‑5 over the Ship Canal Bridge is reduced to two lanes during an extended preservation effort, and a local startup that builds quoting software for HVAC and home-service contractors raised fresh funding.
What homeowners need to know when hiring a contractor
Construction projects require time, money and trust. Working with the wrong contractor can cause delays, cost overruns or unsatisfactory results. A clear, step-by-step approach helps homeowners separate the best contractors from the rest and get work that lasts.
Define the job first
Before reaching out to contractors, write down the project scope, budget range, desired timeline and basic design preferences. Decide whether you need a general contractor, a specialist, or both. For example, a kitchen remodel may need someone with cabinetry and plumbing experience, while a new roof needs expertise in structure and weatherproofing. Local conditions matter — durable siding in Seattle or custom-built patios in nearby suburbs require contractors familiar with local weather and neighborhood rules.
Research and referrals
Ask friends, family or neighbors who’ve completed similar work for names. Check online reviews and community forums for patterns in feedback. Confirm credentials through professional directories, licensing boards and trade associations. Specialized certifications or membership in industry groups often indicate higher professionalism and adherence to standards.
Shortlist and vet
Build a shortlist of three to five contractors to compare approaches, pricing and communication styles. Ask about past projects like yours and review portfolios online or in person. Request references and speak directly to former clients to learn about communication, problem solving and punctuality.
Licenses, permits and insurance
Verify that contractors hold the appropriate local licenses and that they will pull required permits. Hiring someone without credentials can expose homeowners to fines, legal liability or unsafe work. Request proof of general liability insurance and workers’ compensation before signing a contract so you’re protected if damage or injury occurs.
Quotes, timelines and communication
Avoid choosing only by lowest bid; a quote that’s far lower than others can hide poor materials, rushed labor or extra fees later. Ask for itemized quotes covering labor, materials, permits and likely extras. Watch for realistic timelines — a contractor promising an unusually fast finish may be cutting corners. From the first call, evaluate responsiveness and clarity. Ask how day-to-day project management is handled, such as updates, check-ins or project software. A strong working relationship matters as much as technical skill.
Final checklist
- Start by defining needs: budget, timeline, and design.
- Research thoroughly and get referrals.
- Evaluate experience and review portfolios.
- Verify licenses, permits and insurance.
- Compare itemized quotes and realistic timelines.
- Choose a contractor who communicates clearly and respects your vision.
Sound Transit: West Seattle Link Extension design award
A Dallas-based design firm was selected to lead Phase 1 design and design validation for the 4.1-mile West Seattle Link Extension, a project estimated between $6.7 billion and $7.1 billion. The extension will add a new bridge, a tunnel and four stations, linking the SODO area with West Seattle’s Alaska Junction. Federal approval moved the project into final design, construction is expected to begin in 2027, and service is targeted to start in 2032. The project is expected to improve connections for residents and businesses and encourage development near station areas, including retail and affordable housing.
WSDOT: I‑5 Ship Canal Bridge preservation work and traffic impacts
Contractors closed northbound I‑5 through parts of Seattle for weekend prep work, then reduced northbound I‑5 across the Ship Canal Bridge to two lanes around the clock through Aug. 15 as part of a preservation program. Weekend tasks included restriping, installing drainage structures, prepping expansion joints and inspections and repairs such as lights and potholes. The speed limit in the work zone is lowered to 50 mph. Express lanes are operating northbound-only for capacity until mid‑August; southbound morning drivers should expect reduced express-lane access and delays. Work will shift to southbound lanes in upcoming months, with specific dates to be announced.
Seattle startup update: software for home contractors raises $3.7M
A local real-estate tech startup raised $3.7 million in a funding round led by a climate-focused investor, with participation from several early-stage funds. Founded in 2021 and run by a small core team, the company makes software that helps residential contractors — especially HVAC and home-service firms — generate instant, personalized quotes by pulling in home square footage, year built, equipment matches and local rebate data. The product aims to make buying and selling home services clearer for homeowners and to boost conversion for contractors. Total funding to date for the company is just under $5 million.
Why this matters
Whether hiring a contractor for a home project or planning for major city infrastructure work, the same principles apply: prioritize quality, accountability and clear communication. Local projects and startups both shape how construction and home services operate, and homeowners who prepare and verify can reduce risk and get better results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do before contacting contractors?
Define the project clearly, set a budget and timeline, decide if you need a general contractor or a specialist, and gather photos or inspiration to communicate your vision.
How many contractors should I compare?
Shortlist at least three to five contractors so you can compare pricing, approach and communication before choosing one.
What paperwork should I verify?
Confirm proper licenses, active permits for the work area, general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask for proof of each before signing.
When will the West Seattle Link Extension be in service?
Final design is under way; construction is expected to begin in 2027 and passenger service is targeted for 2032.
What are the current traffic changes on I‑5 over the Ship Canal Bridge?
Northbound I‑5 over the bridge is reduced to two lanes 24/7 through Aug. 15, speed limit reduced to 50 mph, and express lanes are operating northbound-only to help capacity. Southbound changes are expected later in the year.
Key features at a glance
| Topic | Key facts | Timeline | Local impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hiring contractors | Step-by-step vetting, verify licenses/insurance, get itemized quotes, check references | Shortlist and vet before signing; timeline varies by project | Reduces risk of delays, cost overruns and poor quality |
| West Seattle Link Extension | Design firm selected for Phase 1 design; 4.1 miles, new bridge, tunnel, 4 stations | Final design underway; construction expected 2027; service targeted 2032 | Improves transit connections and spurs station-area development |
| I‑5 Ship Canal Bridge work | Northbound reduced to two lanes; drainage, joints, resurfacing and inspections | Lane reduction through Aug. 15; southbound work to follow in fall/winter | Traffic delays, reduced express-lane access, lower speed limits in work zones |
| EDEN funding | Local startup raised $3.7M; builds quoting software for HVAC and home-service contractors | Founded 2021; latest round reported in April 2025 | Aims to speed quoting and improve transparency for homeowners and contractors |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- The Seattle Times
- Wikipedia: Labor shortage
- Construction Dive
- Google Search: West Seattle Link Extension
- KING 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ship Canal Bridge
- GeekWire
- Google News: EDEN startup Seattle
- Daily Journal of Commerce (Seattle)
- Google Scholar: Hiring contractors best practices
Author: Construction FL News
FLORIDA STAFF WRITER The FLORIDA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionflnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florida and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florida Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida and the Florida Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Shutts & Bowen LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
