UPDATE: Sound Transit has just announced a comprehensive plan to tackle persistent bird droppings at several Seattle light rail stations as the city prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With international soccer fans set to converge on Seattle in mid-2026, officials are urgently addressing cleanliness issues that plague stations like Capitol Hill Station.
Passengers at Capitol Hill Station are confronted daily with the unsightly and unhygienic problem of bird droppings that coat the tiles, walls, and escalators. Sound Transit board member Kristina Walker emphasized the need for clean stations, stating, “For sure this is part of our cleanup for the World Cup, but I also want to make sure we have clean stations for our riders that are not just visiting.”
To tackle this growing concern, Sound Transit has committed to a $889,954 contract for a three-year initiative focused on bird mitigation services at four key stations through June 2026. This includes increased spending on contractors, deep cleaning entrances, and the installation of various deterrents like spikes and nets. Officials are also exploring innovative solutions such as avian contraceptives to manage the bird population.
Despite previous efforts to deter pigeons, including hanging nets and installing spikes, birds have continued to adapt, finding new roosting spots. David Nixon, a lead maintenance custodian at Capitol Hill, remarked, “The pigeons…have adapted. They’re smarter than people would normally think.”
The issue extends beyond Capitol Hill; International District/Chinatown Station sees flocks of 100 to 150 birds congregating, while Tukwila International Boulevard Station continues to face challenges despite years of birdproofing attempts. Commuters often find themselves dodging droppings, leading some to express frustration over unclean conditions. Morning commuter Amanda Rivas shared, “They’re trying to keep it clean…but pigeons would return the next day, so why waste money?”
In addition to cleaning measures, Sound Transit has previously attempted to manage the bird population by trapping and relocating pigeons, but this has proven to be a temporary fix. The agency is now considering implementing OVO Control, an avian contraceptive program that has seen success in other cities like Vancouver.
Officials are planning to install bird-deterrent features at other affected stations, including Northgate Station and King Street Station, where birds are notorious for gathering. Sound Transit is also set to power wash International District/Chinatown Station right before the World Cup, as part of their ongoing efforts to enhance station cleanliness.
The multimillion-dollar industry surrounding bird control highlights the seriousness of this issue. Pigeon droppings not only create unsightly conditions but can also corrode steel structures, posing safety risks. Left unchecked, bird waste can lead to costly infrastructure damage, as seen in past incidents across the nation.
As Sound Transit steps up its efforts, commuters are hopeful for a cleaner and more pleasant experience. With the World Cup fast approaching, the urgency to resolve this bird dilemma is paramount.
Stay tuned for further updates as Sound Transit implements these critical measures to ensure a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors alike.
