Otak Blog

Otak recently participated in the official launch of Community Transit’s Swift bus rapid transit (BRT) system, which serves Lynnwood, Edmonds, Everett, and Snohomish County. Swift is the first BRT to operate in the state of Washington, and one of 22 nationwide. Dan Dawson, Otak’s lead on the project, was on hand to speak at the opening festivities. The party included Swift bus tours, carnival games, face painting, balloon animals, a photo booth and a visit from Community Transit’s super hero, Oxy Gene.

In addition, a surprise dance party broke out! Click here to watch the video.

BRT projects around the world are gaining in popularity because they provide the frequency and fast boarding of light rail, with the flexibility of a bus system — at a lower cost. Otak’s role in the project was to lead station design and station site construction for 30 station locations. Overall, Otak’s services included project management, surveying, civil engineering, landscape architecture, planning, and construction support services.

Three Otak employees from our Kirkland and Vancouver, Washington offices passed the demanding Professional Engineering exam. Congratulations to our newest PEs: Xiao Wu, Adam Braun, and Ryan Billen.

Otak employees have joined to host a Holiday Shop, selling handmade items that embraces the idea of shopping local. Items for sale include jewelry, handmade cards, holiday decorations, canned vegetables and fruit, and many other goods. The Holiday Shop is donating 10% of total sales to the Oregon Food Bank and is also accepting cash donations unrelated to purchases. At the close of the first week, the total sales were $1,000! The shop is open again this week every day during lunch. Come on by for last minute gifts!