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TRAFFIC, ROAD WORK, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Wednesday info
March 12, 2025 6:01 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, ROAD WORK, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Wednesday info
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Wednesday, March 12, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Today’s forecast – rainy, high around 50. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 7:27 am and 7:11 pm.

ROAD WORK

-In White Center, another reminder that 16th is closed at 104th again today.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

Water Taxi – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V Sealth serving as the “bonus boat.”

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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Two deliberately set fires under investigation
March 11, 2025 10:27 pm
|      29 COMMENTS
 |   Crime | West Seattle fires | West Seattle news | West Seattle police

Two cases of deliberately set fires:

(Monday photo by Tim Durkan)

SOUTH DELRIDGE FIRE: As noted in an update earlier on our coverage of Monday afternoon’s fire at a vacant house near 16th/Barton, SFD ruled it was deliberately set, and said they had referred the case to police. We subsequently followed up with SPD; they had not yet assigned the case to a detective. If you have any information, the case number is 25-64894.

STUDENT SUSPECTED OF FIRE-SETTING: SPD released this incident summary tonight:

At 1324 hours, a group of high-school students were on a tour of a community college when unidentified students dared another student to set fire to something in an auditorium. The suspect waited until the auditorium was empty and then proceeded to set fire to a flag/pole. Campus staff smelled the smoke and responded. Security extinguished the fire with no further property damage beyond the lingering smell of smoke and fire extinguisher chemical. The suspect was identified and later released to a parent. ABS was advised of the incident.

According to archived emergency-radio audio, two SFD units were dispatched at 1:20 pm to Olympic Hall on the south end of the South Seattle College campus, and the fire was out before their arrival, so they left quickly.

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Southwest Seattle Historical Society presents ‘Words, Writers, Southwest Stories’ in two days, ‘Story Tellers’ gala in one month
March 11, 2025 8:01 pm
|    Comments Off on Southwest Seattle Historical Society presents ‘Words, Writers, Southwest Stories’ in two days, ‘Story Tellers’ gala in one month
 |   West Seattle history | West Seattle news

Two events ahead for the Southwest Seattle Historiical Society!

WORDS, WRITERS, SOUTHWEST STORIES: The monthly online presentation is this Thursday (March 13) at 6 pm, focusing on “Black Women in the Washington Civil Rights Movement.” History professor Quin’Nita Cobbins-Modica is the speaker. From the preview in our calendar listing:

In the 1960s, Freddie Mae Gautier wrote to Martin Luther King Jr., urging him to come to Seattle. The Pacific Northwest, she said, has many of the same problems as the South—but people here could be complacent.

Gautier’s letter confronts the dominant narrative that Washington State is an “exceptional” place rather than a microcosm of the larger U.S. society. How does her story, and the story of other Black women, challenge this understanding?

To register for the link, go here.

“STORY TELLERS: A PENINSULA AND ITS PEOPLE”: That’s the theme of the SWSHS gala dinner/auction this year, and it’s now exactly one month away. You are invited to join SWSHS supporters at 6 pm Friday, April 11, at Salty’s on Alki (1936 Harbor SW). WSB is media sponsor for the gala – here’s the SWSHS invitation:

Enjoy live music from local West Seattle band The Potholes, delicious food, and a cash bar. Meet and mingle with neighbors, supporters, history makers, and those who collect and uplift the stories of the Duwamish Peninsula.

Story Tellers: A Peninsula and its People celebrates the historical society’s vision for our ongoing interpretive planning and upcoming exhibition overhaul that will transform how people experience the Log House Museum. Celebrate with us as we announce details of a permanent, interactive exhibition planned for 2026 that connects the stories we tell to our visitor’s waterfront experience, highlights stories of diverse placemaking across the Duwamish Peninsula, and encourages visitors to explore regional heritage sites.

Special guests include exhibit designer and contractor, Chris Fiala Erlich, and our partners at Seattle Housing Authority, whose youth Video Club is helping our historical society capture stories of High Point.

Register Here!

Watch for the SWSHS online auction one week before the event – everyone will be able to bid, though keep in mind some special items and experiences will only be available at the gala.

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WEST SEATTLE LIGHT RAIL: Sound Transit Board committee votes for a CEO candidate – without publicly identifying them
March 11, 2025 5:33 pm
|      15 COMMENTS
 |   Sound Transit | West Seattle news

Following a 48-minute executive session (non-public discussion) during a special meeting, members of the Sound Transit Board‘s Executive Committee have just voted unanimously in favor of a CEO candidate, without identifying them by name. Search consultant Gregg Moser reported having about 60 people apply (including some that he recruited), 15 who met qualifications, narrowed that down to five semifinalists, then three finalists, whom the board identified publicly only as A, B, and C, voting unanimously today for C. Now board reps will negotiate an employment agreement with candidate C, bringing it to the full board on March 27.

The recommendation for permanent CEO comes 14 months after the last permanent ST CEO, Julie Timm, left; she had held the job 16 months. Goran Sparrman has been serving as interim CEO. The executive session in today’s meeting was preceded by a public-comment period which drew seven written comments summarized as opposing choosing King County Executive and ST Board member Dow Constantine – the only candidate whose name has been made public (Moser explained the need for confidentiality in a national search) – as CEO, plus three “live” commenters, one of whom voiced support for Constantine, another who stressed choosing someone who would “prioritize nailing the fundamentals” of service, and another who urged board members to have a more “transparent” process.

ADDED: Several board members made comments before the vote, but none gave overt hints at the winning candidate’s identity. They mostly discussed their hopes for the new CEO – Auburn mayor Nancy Backus, for example, said the new CEO must be committed to “get(ting) the spine built.”

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Rock Walk! West Seattle Junction Association debuts new event April 11 to turn up the volume on Summer Fest music
March 11, 2025 4:03 pm
|    Comments Off on Rock Walk! West Seattle Junction Association debuts new event April 11 to turn up the volume on Summer Fest music
 |   Fun stuff to do | West Seattle news | WS beverages

Just four months until the year’s biggest party, West Seattle Summer Fest, fills The Junction with three days of music, shopping, food, and fun. But in just one month, you can help launch a new fun(draiser) to support the festival’s music – the first-ever Rock Walk is one month away, on April 11, and you can get your ticket(s) now! Here’s the announcement from the West Seattle Junction Association:

You told us last year — one of the best things about Summer Fest is the music! And guess what? We heard you loud and clear. This year, we’re turning up the volume with an exciting new event: Rock Walk, a fundraiser to enhance the music programming at Summer Fest 2025!

As costs continue to rise and summer weekends fill up with community festivals, we want to ensure West Seattle Summer Fest stays on your calendar as a must-attend event. That’s why we’re bringing you Rock Walk — a night of different tastes from wineries, breweries, cideries and distilleries – with all proceeds supporting live music at Summer Fest.

What is Rock Walk?
Located in the heart of West Seattle Junction, Rock Walk is a dynamic tasting event featuring wine, cider, beer, and spirits.

-30 businesses will serve as sip stops
-32 beverage providers (yes, two locations will have double the options!)
-12 tasting choices per person
-Exclusive perks: Your ticket includes a tasting glass, a tote bag for bottle purchases, a map of all locations, and—of course—our undying gratitude for supporting live music at Summer Fest!

Event Details
📅 Date: Friday, April 11th
🕔 Time: 5:00 – 9:00 PM
📍 Check-in Locations:
Jet City Labs – 4547 California Ave SW
John L. Scott Realty – 4445 California Ave SW

Get Your Tickets Now!
Secure yours here: Rock Walk Tickets

Why Join Rock Walk?
Gather your friends and enjoy a strolling sip experience through West Seattle Junction. You’ll discover new favorite beverages, explore local businesses, and—best of all—help us bring an enhanced music lineup to Summer Fest 2025!

Go to The Junction’s website to see the Rock Walk pairings of beverage providers and pouring locations!

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WEST SEATTLE COYOTES: South sightings
March 11, 2025 2:55 pm
|      13 COMMENTS
 |   Coyotes | West Seattle news

Two reader reports of coyote sightings in the south half of West Seattle:

MARINE VIEW DRIVE: A reader called to report a daylight sighting, after seeing one in the 10200 block of Marine View Drive this past hour.

TWO IN SEAVIEW: This past Saturday night around 9:30 pm, Dana looked out the window “and saw two coyotes cross Raymond at 44th. They headed north on 44th.”

We have published coyote sightings for 15+ years not for alarm, but for awareness. Learn how best to co-exist with them by following the links here.

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ALKI ELEMENTARY PROJECT: Another construction milestone; playground preview
March 11, 2025 1:03 pm
|      1 COMMENT
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks | West Seattle schools

Two updates on the Alki Elementary construction (on the site of the old school, 3010 59th SW):

ABOVE-GROUND CONSTRUCTION: Two weeks ago, we mentioned the slab pour. That paved the way – literally – for the framing, which is visible from outside the construction fencing, as our photo shows. You can get an on-site view from the project webcam.

ADDED: Here’s a view from above, courtesy of Don Brubeck:

PLAYGROUND CONCEPTS: Seattle Public Schools project spokesperson Tina Christiansen told us the project website has just been updated with a preview of the play equipment that’s in the works for the city-owned playground on the north side of the school (south side of Alki Playfield). Here’s one of the boards you’ll see at that link:

Alki Elementary is scheduled to move into the new school for the 2026-2027 school year, and SPS says the playground should be complete in “early-to-mid-2026,” in collaboration with Seattle Parks.

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GET YOUR GREEN ON: West Seattle Runner’s Leprechaun Leg Group Run returns Sunday
March 11, 2025 11:11 am
|      5 COMMENTS
 |   Fun stuff to do | West Seattle news | WS & Sports

(WSB photo, 2024 Leprechaun Leg Group Run participants)

Get your St. Patrick’s Day green on a day early and join West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) on Sunday for this year’s Leprechaun Leg Group Run. Here’s the reminder from WSR co-proprietor Lori McConnell:

This coming Sunday, March 16, at 9 am, we are hosting our 4th annual Leprechaun Leg Group Run with Good Society Brewing. We will gather at Hiawatha Track [2700 California SW] and run a 3-mile route through the neighborhood and end at Good Society. They are opening early just for us!! The start time is 9 am!!! It is only a group run, not a race! Contact the shop for questions: 206-938-0545

We are charging $1 entry fee so that we can give a headcount to Good Society and then we will give all the money to their tip jar. Wear your green! Also email lori@westseattlerunner.com with any questions.

West Seattle Runner – the peninsula’s only running-focused shop – also presents seasonal fun runs for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmastime, plus the annual summertime Float Dodger 5K before the West Seattle Grand Parade – July 19 this year. Regular group runs, too, as featured on our calendar.

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Admiral and Fauntleroy gatherings, South Seattle College open house, ferry-dock briefing, WS Community Orchestras concert, more for your Tuesday
March 11, 2025 9:31 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)

Another busy Tuesday – here are the highlights, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar and inbox:

POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: Weekly advocacy gathering, 10:30 am at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). Sign up here before you go, if you’re a first-timer.

ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Lunch meeting, noon at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW). Two-part program: Students of the Month, and ShelterBox.

CHESS CLUB: Tuesdays 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon). All levels welcome. (Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.)

SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE OPEN HOUSE: 3:30-6:30 pm, visit South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) and discover the possibilities it offers for your education, whether you’re interested in a single class or a full degree – details in our calendar listing.

(Thanks to Amy for photo of Mallie and Lillian from Troop 44443 outside Husky Deli last weekend)

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTHS: This year’s Girl Scout Cookie in-person sales continue today, after school, but this is the last week! Go here to look for a cookie booth near you – multiple troops are selling at various spots, during various time slots, in West Seattle. (Is your troop out selling cookies? Send a pic – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)

SOUND TRANSIT BOARD COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING: 4 pm, the board’s Executive Committee holds a special meeting regarding the CEO search and may announce its recommendation. The agenda document includes info on commenting, before or during the meeting, and how to watch, in person or online.

HOMEWORK HELP: Students can drop in for free help, 4-5:45 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).

DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-7 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $10 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases.

DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving demonstration on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t bring your own.

WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY ORCHESTRAS: First of two free almost-spring concerts, 6 pm at Chief Sealth International HS Auditorium (2600 SW Thistle).

FAUNTLEROY DOCK PROJECT BRIEFING: As the online open house about the project continues, Washington State Ferries plans an online presentation 6-8 pm tonight – register here to get the link.

FAUNTLEROY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION: 6 pm board meeting at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW), community welcome.

ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMEN MEETUP: 6-8 pm monthly meetup at West Seattle Coworking (9030 35th SW).

WEST SEATTLE RUNNER TRACK RUN: 6:15 pm, meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for WSR’s free weekly track run.

FREE DANCE LESSON: Tonight’s free! At the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon), Westside Dance with Dean:

Tuesdays, March 11 – April 15, 2025
Swing 1: Intro to East Coast Swing 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Swing 2: Dancing to the Blues (a traveling dance) 7:45 – 8:45 p.m.

Brush up on your dance skills with our next six-week dance series. Instructor Dean Paton leads these live partner-dance classes in Swing 1 & 2. No partner is necessary, both singles and couples are welcome.

First week (March 11th) is free, so come and try it out. Join the fun and meet others in the community!
More information here.

MAKE POTTERY: Weekly 6:30-9 pm “girls’ night” at pottery studio The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW), sign up in advance to work on your project(s).

ADMIRAL NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION: Come find out what’s up in your neighborhood! 7 pm gathering at Admiral Church (4320 SW Hill), all welcome – here’s the agenda preview.

WOMEN’S MEDITATION CIRCLE: Weekly small-group event at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034 California SW), 7 pm. Our calendar listing has details on signing up before you go.

BINGO AT THE SKYLARK: Play – free! – Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo hosted by Cookie Couture, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

TRIVIA X 6: Six trivia options for Tuesday night – 7 pm trivia with Amelia at Future Primitive‘s Beer Bar on Alki (2536 Alki SW) … The Beer Junction (4711 California SW) has Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW) … and Trivia Tuesdays at Christos on Alki, 7:15 pm (2508 Alki SW).

Hosting an event, class, performance, gathering, etc.? Tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Remembering Norma Jean Milliman, 1939-2025
March 11, 2025 9:04 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   Obituaries | West Seattle news

Family and friends are remembering Norma Jean Milliman, and sharing this with the community:

Norma Milliman, born on July 17, 1939, peacefully passed away on February 1, 2025, at the age of 85. Born to Norman Reginald Cranage and Lillian Myrtle Cranage (née Locklin), Norma was raised in West Seattle and was a cherished member of her family and community.

Preceded in death by her two siblings, Louella Cranage and Tom Cranage, Norma graduated from West Seattle High School in 1957. She married Loren D. Milliman on March 19, 1962, and dedicated her primary career to being a loving homemaker. Together, they welcomed their children, Elizabeth in 1963 and Loren M. in 1967.

Norma returned to school and in December of 1988 earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington. Her and Loren’s love for travel took them to the Philippines and China in the spring of 1988, Sweden, and Great Britain. The family enjoyed many summer camping road trips and after Loren retired they traveled extensively around the US.

During the early 2000s Norma and Loren became snowbirds with a second home in Green Valley, Arizona. Their home base was in West Seattle for over 50 years where they created many memorable moments, before moving in 2023 to Wesley Des Moines.

Known for her patient, kind, loving, accepting, and warm personality, Norma dedicated her time to various activities, including spending time with family and friends, playing the piano and violin, genealogy, gardening, travel, and solving puzzle books. A longtime member of Tibbetts United Methodist Church, she also volunteered with Audubon, Seattle Opera, Tibbetts, and as a host family with ICYE for Ylva from Sweden, Ulrike from Germany, Cilla from Italy, and others.

Norma is survived by her loving spouse Loren D. Milliman, sister-in-law Patt Cranage, daughter Elizabeth (Ernie), son Loren M. (Janice), and four of the greatest joys in her life, grandchildren Delia, Loren A., Norman, and Patrick.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Amnesty USA, Covenant House, or Tibbetts United Methodist in West Seattle and/or United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).

May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.

(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)

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TRAFFIC, ROAD WORK, WEATHER, TRANSIT: Tuesday info
March 11, 2025 6:03 am
|      2 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Forecast – mostly cloudy, rain likely in the pm, high near 50. Today’s sunrise/sunset – 7:29 am and 7:10 pm.

ROAD WORK

-In White Center, another reminder that 16th will be closed at the 104th intersection starting today.

-In South Alki, work that’s either started or about to start is to prepare for the 63rd/Beach pump-station project; our preview explains (and includes a map).

-Just south of Genesee Hill, 51st Place SW is obstructed between Oregon and Alaska by that sinkhole, per the reader who sent the photo. (We’re checking on repair plans.)

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

Water Taxi – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V Sealth serving as the “bonus boat.”

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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UPDATE: 2 hurt in car-on-side crash on westbound Spokane Street Viaduct
March 10, 2025 11:30 pm
|    Comments Off on UPDATE: 2 hurt in car-on-side crash on westbound Spokane Street Viaduct
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

11:30 PM: SPD and SFD have arrived at a 2-vehicle crash, with one on its side, on the westbound Spokane Street Viaduct (the east half of the West Seattle Bridge), by the 1st Avenue South ramp, as shown on a city traffic cam. Two people are reported hurt, and an SDOT response crew is on the way for what’s described as a “large fluid spill spanning all lanes.” They’re going to block the entire westbound bridge for now while this gets cleaned up.

11:56 PM: Officers are telling dispatch that they expect the closure to be “prolonged.”

12:43 AM: The bridge/SSV has reopened, per police-radio announcement.

ADDED 10:40 AM: We asked SFD about the people reported injured. Spokesperson David Cuerpo replied, “Crews treated a 26-year-old male who was in stable condition and a 44-year-old male who was also in stable condition. Both did not require transportation to a hospital and were left on scene with law enforcement.”

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4 West Seattle Triangle notes: Shelter, ex-clinic, ex-store, sale
March 10, 2025 9:49 pm
|      13 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news

Four notes from the West Seattle Triangle area:

SHELTER: Westside Neighbors Shelter in the American Legion Post 160 building (3618 SW Alaska) had announced the end of its overnight operation for the year as of late February – but is restarting the availability temporarily later this week, since temperatures are predicted to drop below 40 degrees. From shelter director Keith Hughes:

due to the impending weather change (to below 40) we will be reopening the Cold Weather Overnight Shelter for at least 10 days starting on Wednesday night. Schedule will be 5 PM till 11 am the next morning each day. Dinner will be at 6:30 pm, breakfast will be at 8:45 am. We will be instituting several new policies for entry to the Shelter, with the intent of keeping the overnight population under 36 beds.

We have a followup question out regarding the policy changes.

EX-CLINIC: Several readers have asked about the fence that’s gone up around the former Virginia Mason Franciscan Health clinic site at 4550 Fauntleroy Way SW:

There are no permit filings for the site. Through further research, we learned that VMFH is still leasing the site, so they’re accountable for whatever happens there. We subsequently checked with a VMFW spokesperson who told WSB they have no updates to share regarding the site’s status or future.

EX-STORE: Just a reminder that Advance Auto Parts at 4505 38th SW has closed – thanks to Ian for the photo of a post-closure note on its door over the weekend:

We confirmed the store’s closure date last month, part of the company’s regional downsizing. No permit filings or public lease listing yet for the site.

SALE: Reminder that ski/snowboard season isn’t over yet, and Mountain to Sound Outfitters (3602 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) continues its big clearance sale, so you can get gear/apparel at a great price in time to go back up to the snow. The shop is open daily; hours tomorrow are 10 am to 6 pm.

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FOLLOWUP: Vehicle-noise camera-enforcement bill advances in State Legislature
March 10, 2025 8:10 pm
|      17 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

During today’s weekly “briefing meeting,” the City Council, as usual, got updates on the State Legislature bills the city’s been tracking. Noting that legislators are now past the midpoint – 57 days into this year’s 105-day session – the city’s legislative liaisons said that the main bill to allow a “vehicle-noise enforcement-camera” pilot program has advanced; the state House passed HB 1423 57-40. District 1 City Councilmember Rob Saka, who’s been advocating for that bill as a potential tool for problems in neighborhoods including Alki, asked the briefers what’s next. They said that though there’s a Senate version of the bill, the House bill is the “main vehicle” for this proposal, so it will likely have a public hearing in the Senate Transportation Committee sometime soon.

P.S. Our area’s state legislators – Sen. Emily Alvarado and Reps. Joe Fitzgibbon (who voted for the noise-camera bill) and Brianna Thomas (who voted against it) – plan a “telephone town hall” next Monday, March 17, at 6 pm. People throughout the district will get a call at that time inviting participation, but you can also call in; this page explains how.

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PREVIEW: South Seattle College’s annual ‘Discover’ open house Tuesday
March 10, 2025 6:15 pm
|    Comments Off on PREVIEW: South Seattle College’s annual ‘Discover’ open house Tuesday
 |   Puget Ridge | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

A quick reminder that if you’re interested in studying at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) – whether seeking a degree or certificate, or a continuing-education class – tomorrow’s the day to visit. 3:30 to 6:30 pm on Tuesday (March 11), you’re invited to SSC’s annual Discover Open House. The college will offer campus tours, program presentations, opportunities to speak with faculty and advisers, plus information on admissions, financial aid, and other student resources. You can RSVP here. Know before you go – review options here, from career training, college transfer, and applied bachelor’s degrees, to short-term training and personal enrichment courses. SSC is on West Seattle’s Puget Ridge, at 6000 16th SW.

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Lincoln Park trail reopened
March 10, 2025 4:29 pm
|      7 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

Thanks to Troy for the tip. Seattle Parks has reopened a West Seattle trail:

(Seattle Parks photo)

Good news! Our Trails Crew has been hard at work restoring the Lincoln Park North Bluff Trail, including repairing the staircase and retaining wall. We’re thrilled to announce that the trail is now REOPENED!

Thank you to everyone for your patience and support while we got everything back in shape.

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ELECTION 2025: Another levy vote this year – Democracy Voucher levy renewal/increase proposed for August ballot
March 10, 2025 2:57 pm
|      40 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

Another property-tax levy renewal is proposed for a vote this year. Mayor Bruce Harrell announced that he wants to renew the levy for the Democracy Voucher program, originally approved by voters in 2015 and launched with 2017 city elections. From the announcement:

checkbox.jpg… The program is administered by the Seattle Ethics and Elections Commission (SEEC) which sends four $25 democracy vouchers to eligible residents during municipal election cycles. Residents then donate their vouchers to qualifying campaigns, which are redeemed for the assigned value.

Since the program’s inception, Seattle has had among the highest rates of people contributing to candidates in the country. More than 106,000 residents have contributed vouchers to candidates, distributing over $10 million to local campaigns through 2024.

The program is also popular with candidates running for city office and has led to more competitive races. Between 2017-2024, 76% of candidates who appeared on the primary election ballot and 89% of candidates on the general election ballot participated in the program.

Mayor Harrell’s proposal would renew the program by levying a $45 million property tax over 10 years, costing the median assessed value Seattle homeowner about $12.20 a year. The proposal has been transmitted to the City Council for consideration and referral to voters for the August primary.

If voters approve the ballot measure, the Mayor, City Council, and SEEC will convene a workgroup in early 2026 to make recommendations on program improvements to reach more residents in diverse communities and empower local campaigns by addressing the role of Political Action Committee (PACs) in municipal elections.

The initiative that created the program was approved by 63 percent of city voters a decade ago. At the time, it was described as costing “the average homeowner about $8 a year.” raising about $30 million over 10 years.

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UPDATE: House fire in South Delridge at future redevelopment site (updated Tuesday)
March 10, 2025 12:51 pm
|      10 COMMENTS
 |   West Seattle fires | West Seattle news

(Added: WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)

12:51 PM: Seattle Fire is at the scene of a house fire in the 9000 block of 17th SW. Two people are reported to have gotten out safely. Traffic is blocked in the area, on 16th too. Updates to come.

1:01 PM: An extra hazard in the area reported by SFD – downed power lines at the fire site. They also have just corrected the actual fire location’s address to 9000 block of 16th, though the originally logged address was in that block of 17th.

1:10 PM: The fire has been declared under control. SFD plans to start demobilizing some of the units.

1:22 PM: Though some units are being dismissed, dispatch has just been told that the 16th SW closure at that spot will last for a while, because of not only SFD but also City Light. That means bus detours too.

1:33 PM: The revised address actually checks to this future-development, former-fire site that’s adjacent, at 16th/Barton. (Added – as shown in this photo, with that site in foreground, today’s fire site in the background, looking northwest:)

1:42 PM: They’re reopening 16th now. The fire’s cause is under investigation.

TUESDAY MORNING: SFD says its investigation determined the fire was deliberately set. We’re following up further with SPD.

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Got something to say about who leads Sound Transit next? Special meeting Tuesday, with public comment and possible recommendation
March 10, 2025 12:39 pm
|      13 COMMENTS
 |   Sound Transit | West Seattle news

With the Sound Transit board having already interviewed candidates for CEO – the only candidate name mentioned publicly so far has been board member King County Executive Dow Constantine – this might be your last chance to offer a comment: The board’s Executive Committee is having a special meeting 4-5 pm tomorrow (Tuesday, March 11). The agenda has a comment period followed by an executive session (non-public) and then possibly a recommendation of who the committee thinks the whole board should vote on. Here’s the agenda document, which explains how to participate either in person or remotely. (You can also email a comment now to meetingcomments@soundtransit.org.) Whoever is hired will take over at a pivotal time for the planning of West Seattle light rail, among other projects.

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COUNTDOWN: Two months until West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025
March 10, 2025 11:48 am
|    Comments Off on COUNTDOWN: Two months until West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2025
 |   Community Garage Sale Day | West Seattle news

Spring is in view and so is this year’s West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day, Saturday, May 10. It’s the 20th anniversary edition – West Seattle’s biggest person-to-person recycling day was founded in 2005 (we’ve been coordinating it since the fourth WSCGSD in 2008). Registration will open April 1. If you’re new, know that WSCGSD is not one big sale at one site, but rather sales of all sizes, all over the peninsula, so after the close of registration (which will be open for just over three weeks), we build a map that’s published one week before sale day, plus a list with the sales identified by number and address, and the short sale summary provided during registration. Official WSCGSD hours on May 10 are 9 am-3 pm, but some sellers start early and/or end late – some even add extra day(s)! – so if you’re having a sale, be sure to include that information with your registration (there’s a spot on the form).

P.S. For people with just a few things to sell, and/or nowhere to have a sale, so far we’ve heard from the Fauntleroy Schoolhouse, which will have community spaces in its big back parking lot, with all proceeds going toward their fundraising for a new van. Others planning to offer community spaces, please let us know ASAP! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you.

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Here’s what’s happening on your West Seattle Monday
March 10, 2025 9:49 am
|    Comments Off on Here’s what’s happening on your West Seattle Monday
 |   West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

Here’s what’s happening for the rest of today, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

(Thanks to Emily for the weekend photo of Troop 41595’s cookie booth)

GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTHS: This year’s Girl Scout Cookie in-person sales continue today, after school, starting the second and final full week! Go here to look for a cookie booth near you – multiple troops are selling at various spots, during various time slots, in West Seattle. (Is your troop out selling cookies? Send a pic – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!)

BABY STORY TIME: Noon at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).

CITY COUNCIL BRIEFING MEETING: See City Councilmembers preview what’s ahead for the week and get briefed on current issues such as what’s happening in the Legislature, 2 pm. The agenda explains how to watch (no public-comment period at this meeting).

HOMEWORK HELP: Drop-in time for students to work with volunteer homework helpers at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 4-5:45 pm.

GET CRAFTY: 6-10 pm, Monday is “Crafting and Creativity Night” at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW), info here.

D&D: Weekly D&D at 6:30 pm at Meeples Games (3727 California SW). All welcome, first-time players included!

LISTENING TO GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP: 6:30 pm with Tamara Kubacki, meeting at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034 California SW). “Grief groups are brave and safe spaces where bereaved people can share their stories and speak their loved one’s name without fear of getting advice, platitudes, or being shut out, no matter how long it’s been since their loved one’s passing.” – you can attend once or multiple times. Fee. Preregistration requested – our calendar listing explains how.

MONDAY NIGHT TRIVIA: Three places to play tonight! … 7 pm at The Good Society (California/Lander); 7 and 8 pm Sporcle Pub Quiz at Three 9 Lounge (4505 39th SW); 7:30 pm with QuizFix at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)

MEDITATION AT ALKI UCC: It’s back, every Monday. Doors open at 6:45, meeting is from 7-8:30. (6115 SW Hinds)

MEDITATION IN FAUNTLEROY: More Monday night meditating – free weekly Zen sitting/meditation in the chapel at Fauntleroy UCC (9140 California SW), 7 pm-8:30 pm.

MUSIC AT THE ALLEY: The Alley features music on Monday nights, jazz with The Westside Trio, 8 pm at The Alley (behind 4509 California SW), 21+, no cover.

MONDAY KARAOKE 9 pm Monday night, sing your heart out during karaoke at Talarico’s Pizzeria (4718 California SW).

Thanks to everyone who contributes listings to our calendar – if you have something to add or cancel (or otherwise update), please send the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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Dance with West Seattle Big Band at WSHS benefit Friday
March 10, 2025 9:07 am
|      1 COMMENT
 |   How to help | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

(WSB video)
That’s the West Seattle Big Band at December’s Admiral Church concert. Your next chance to see/hear/dance with them is Friday at West Seattle High School and you have three more days to buy advance discount tickets – here’s the announcement:

We are excited to invite you to our 13th annual Big Band Dinner Dance on Friday, March 14th! There will be music provided by the whole music program, dinner prepared by our very own Culinary Arts program, a silent auction, dancing, and the wonderful West Seattle Big Band directed by Jim Edwards.

Dust off those dancing shoes (or not … dancing is optional) and get yourself tickets to one of the best events of the year!

Proceeds benefit the whole music program at WSHS!

TICKETS:

Dinner & Dance tickets: $30 when pre-purchased (by March 12th); $35 at the door (if available)
Dance only tickets: $10

WSHS is at 3000 California SW.

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TRAFFIC, ROAD WORK, WEATHER, TRANSIT: First post-time-change Monday
March 10, 2025 6:03 am
|    Comments Off on TRAFFIC, ROAD WORK, WEATHER, TRANSIT: First post-time-change Monday
 |   West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, March 10, 2025.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Forecast – mostly cloudy, more showers likely, high in the upper 40s. Today’s sunrise/sunset, on this first weekday since the time change – 7:31 am and 7:08 pm.

ROAD WORK

-In South Alki, work could start as soon as today to prepare for the 63rd/Beach pump-station project; our preview explains (and includes a map).

-In White Center, another reminder that 16th will be closed at the 104th intersection starting tomorrow.

TRANSIT TODAY

Metro buses – Regular schedule.

Water Taxi – Regular schedule.

Washington State Ferries – Regular service on the Triangle Route, with M/V Kittitas and M/V Cathlamet, plus M/V Sealth serving as the “bonus boat.”

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:

Spokane Street Viaduct – This view usually looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:

Low Bridge – Looking west:

1st Avenue South Bridge:

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Genesee), cameras are also at Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

MORE TRAFFIC CAMS: All functioning traffic cams citywide are here (including links to live video for most); for a quick scan of West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras, see this WSB page.

See a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water? Please text or call our hotline (when you can do it safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!

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