West Seattle, Washington
24 Sunday
Two reports in West Seattle Crime Watch:
MULTIGENERATIONAL SHOPLIFTING: The report is from Jennifer at My Three Little Birds:
Hoping this might help other small businesses. I borrowed these photos from Doll Parts Collective. This large group of 3 families came into our store (THREE LITTLE BIRDS) as well as Doll Parts down the road. The kids trashed the store causing complete chaos while the women distracted the staff with questions and requests.
In the meantime the 7 or so kids left one by one stealing many items from our store. Definitely an organized crime. They had clearly done this before. Sharing everywhere. I know the police won’t do much, but maybe getting the photos out will prevent this from affecting another small business. We are so stunned, violated and disheartened today. … They stole a really expensive stroller system, toys, and clothing. They work quickly and seemed to know in advance what they were taking. At Doll Parts they also went through the employee’s purse and wallet. The police officer helping today says they tell small businesses to never allow large groups in the store all at once because of this.
We’ll add the police-report # when we get it.
MINI-MART BREAK-IN: We requested this report from police the day it happened, Tuesday, and just got it today. They responded to the 41st/Admiral mini-mart around 2:16 am after a report that a store manager or owner checked their camera following a call from their alarm company and saw “front door smashed and cigarettes all over.” They subsequently confirmed that someone had broken in by smashing the front glass with a large rock; the burglar(s) took “several items of merchandise.” Video of the burglary was provided to police later but the report summary provided to us did not include a description.
(WSB photo, Monday)
Back on Monday, we reported on a fire that damaged three buildings at Full Gospel Pentecostal Federated Church in North Delridge. The next day, as we noted in an update at the end of the original report, SFD announced the fire was accidental. Readers have asked how to help the church recover; today, District 1 City Councilmember Rob Saka‘s newest newsletter has suggestions. He writes:
… Church leadership are looking at the availability for an alternative site for their Sunday service and they will be issuing community notifications soon. The leadership shared: “Our greatest joy would be to see the community of supporters in person and their best donation is the time taken in human fellowship.”
Monetary donations can be sent electronically to the Church’s Cash App log-in: #FullGospel5071, or Zelle, log in fgpfcf@gmail.com. Checks may be mailed to: Full Gospel Pentecostal Federated Church, c/o P.O. Box 232 Renton, WA 98057.
{Note: Other types of donations are welcomed, but the capacity to store them is currently very limited at this time.}
No one was injured by the fire. We spoke at the scene with someone from the church who told us it hit doubly hard because they were already grieving, having just hosted a memorial service two days earlier for a longtime member.
Today we’re welcoming Independent Living at Providence Mount St. Vincent as a new WSB sponsor. New members of the sponsor team get the chance to tell you what they do – so here’s a message from The Mount, written by longtime volunteer Terry Tazioli:
West Seattle’s Providence Mount St. Vincent is opening another chapter in its ongoing mission to care for our community’s seniors. Introducing Independent Living, a new experience at The Mount, as it’s affectionately known, and you’re welcome to pay a visit and see what it’s all about.
The Mount is celebrating its 100th year, its perch high on a hill with incredible views all around, a hard-to-miss landmark. Already offering care and companionship from apartments with assisted living to skilled nursing care, transitional care and skilled nursing, The Mount now offers Independent Living, an opportunity for you or a loved one to make your own new home. You manage your own life, your comings and goings, and you’ll still have opportunity to take part in The Mount’s programs.
If you’re never been to The Mount, you’re in for a treat. The place is a beehive. Lots of staff, more volunteers than you can count, activity after activity, when you’re interested – and kids! Lots of them. Besides being honored for its senior care, The Mount is home to a unique day-care program, among its features a wonderful opportunity for children and elders to meet. Think a building filled with grandparents!
The Mount offers an environment where you’ll be welcomed. It’s not uncommon to hear people say “you can just feel the goodness of this place.” More than likely you’ll meet some former West Seattle neighbors among the residents, the staff and the volunteers. Time for lots of shared moments, and stories.
What’s more, as you need more care down the road, it’s all there – from assisted living to skilled nursing and transitional care. No need to move from The Mount.
Pay us a visit. To see what’s happening inside that huge home on the hill (4831 35th SW) – and to check out the new Independent Living program, email Christina.L’Heureux@providence.org or call 206-938-6248 and schedule a tour. We’ll be happy to show you around.
We thank Independent living at The Mount for sponsoring independent, community-collaborative neighborhood news via WSB; find our current sponsor team listed in directory format here. You can email patrick@wsbsales.com for info on joining the team!
Another West Seattle Junction shop is moving to a new, bigger location nearby. A texter sent the photo on Thursday from Mystery Made‘s front door at 4310 SW Oregon. We checked in with Mystery Made proprietor Cory Côté, who tells us via email that the new spot “around the corner” is the space recently vacated by Swan Dive:
Big News! We are moving down the block to the old Swan Dive spot, 4537 California Ave SW location (the original Easy Street) – can’t wait to show it off – and bring some buzz back to The Junction!
The space is definitely larger than the current space so we’ll be able to bring in more premium goods and continue to put our Northwest spin on retail as we roll into fall and the holidays.
Shooting to re-open up retail Sept 1st in the new location/home! Fingers crossed! But you can still order online in the meantime at www.mysterymade.com
Looking forward to doing a grand reopening party!
It’s been four years since Mystery Made moved from Admiral to The Junction (into a former Christian Science Reading Room).
Three coyote sightings, two of them just this morning:
LOWER GATEWOOD: The photo and report are from Brian Quinn:
On my morning walk with my dog, and this guy just came sprinting down the middle of the street – Woodside Pl and Othello.
UPPER FAUNTLEROY: Quick glimpse on security video, sent by Robert:
The sighting was around 8 this morning. (Not far from our own one-and-only coyote sighting – 16 years ago.)
SUNRISE HEIGHTS: Merica reported two coyotes seen near 30th/Elmgrove last Saturday night (August 10).
We’ve been reporting coyote sightings for 17 years to encourage awareness, not alarm – we and they can stay a healthy distance from each other, experts say, especially if you avoid providing food (from unattended pets to unsecured garbage) – they have plenty of small wildlife (including rodents) and vegetation to eat otherwise. Read more about coexisting with coyotes here.
(Traffic-camera image of work last Sunday afternoon, looking west)
Update from SDOT: Since rain is in the forecast this weekend, the contractor for the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project will not be able to work. That means no closures tonight through Monday morning – the bridge between 99 and I-5 will be fully open both ways. Meantime, we’re awaiting next week’s closure schedule, and will add that when available.
(Hosta blooms, photographed by Arlene Rubin)
Here’s our Friday highlight list, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SSC GARDEN CENTER: Plants await you at the north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus, 10 am until 3 pm. Plus, until 2:30 pm, while you’re there, you can visit The Otter Pup for coffee, ice cream, and other treats!
LOCAL HAMS TALK WITH ISS ASTRONAUT: As previewed here, West Seattle Amateur Radio Club members are at the Pacific Science Center downtown this morning for a special event culminating in radio contact with ISS astronaut Dr. Jeanette J. Epps. Science Center visitors are welcome to attend, starting at 10:15 (the radio window is after 11 am). A livestream is planned too – links are in our preview.
HIGHLAND PARK SPRAYPARK: Open 11 am-8 pm. Free! (1100 SW Cloverdale)
WADING POOLS: Open today – Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm; Delridge (4501 Delridge Way SW – last day of the season for this pool) and Hiawatha (second-to-last day, 2700 California SW), noon-5:30 pm.
COLMAN POOL: You can swim today in the outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM: 1-6 pm, open in the north lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).
BACKPACKS FOR KIDS: Backpacks, school supplies, barbecue, all free at Southwest Teen Life Center (2801 SW Thistle), 3-6 pm, presented by 1World1Sky and partners.
Flutes in the Forest from JaroslawMedia on Vimeo.
FLUTES IN THE FOREST: That video clip is a preview of what you’ll see and hear for free at 3 pm in
Schmitz Preserve Park (5551 SW Admiral Way) during this flute duo’s only park performance this season! Details in our calendar listing.
VISCON CELLARS: The tasting room/wine bar is open for wine by the glass or bottle – 5-9 pm – at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
AT KENYON HALL: Monthly singer/songwriter incubator open mic at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), doors open at 6 for sign-ups, music starts at 6:30 pm, more info in our calendar listing.
COMEDY AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: Midnight Mystery Theater at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), 7-9 pm.
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK: GreenStage presents “Henry VI parts 2 & 3” at Camp Long (5200 35th SW), 7 pm, free.
AT THE SPOT: Fridays are Live Artist Showcase nights at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), 7-10 pm.
SUMMER SUNSET SOUND BATH: 7:30 pm at Solstice Park (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW), $38 – tickets and info here.
AT THE SKYLARK: 8 pm, Bent Not Broken & Five Shots Gone, $10 cover. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, DJ Lady Coco! (4547 California SW)
JARAY’S DJ: 9 pm, DJ Buzsy at Jaray’s Lounge (2216 SW Orchard).
YOU SKATE, THEY PLAY: Rat City Recon presents “Make It Loud!” at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW), roller skating to live bands, featuring Colony Drop, I AM The Intimidator, Distest. 9 pm. $18 cover, $5 skate.
What are we missing? If you have something else to add to our event lists and calendar, please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Friday, August 16.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Today’s forecast: Mostly sunny, high in the low 70s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:07 am, while sunset will be at 8:18 pm.
SPOKANE ST. VIADUCT CLOSURES
Another all-weekend closure is scheduled for the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project – first, two left eastbound lanes close 7-10 pm, then all eastbound lanes and one westbound lane are scheduled to close from 10 pm tonight until 5 am Monday.
ANOTHER WEEKEND CLOSURE
Saturday morning, as previewed here, SW Barton is scheduled to close between 16th SW and 8th SW for the Salvation Army Fund Run 5K.
TRANSIT NOTES
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule for both routes. Friday night means later-evening runs too.
Metro buses today – Regular schedules; check for advisories here.
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, and the unscheduled third boat may be available. Check that link before you sail.
ONGOING ROAD WORK NOTES
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project is in progress. Fairmount Avenue is closed under the bridge for the duration of the project, at least into early 2025. Lane closures have begun on the top deck too.
*The East Marginal Way S. project continues, with a temporary routing change for bicycle riders starting this week:
People biking will be routed onto the street of E Marginal Way S in temporary protected bike lanes from S Spokane St to north of the Terminal 30 parking lot at approximately S Stacy St. At the T30 parking lot / S Stacy St, people will be routed back into the existing bike lanes and sidewalk on the west side of the street. Please note that the T30 parking lot is south of the main T30 entrance.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch. Watch for no-parking zones and steel plates (many on northbound side right now), plus flaggers.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera:
High Bridge – The Fauntleroy-end camera is working again:
Spokane Street Viaduct – This view looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:
Low bridge: Here’s the main view:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
South Park Bridge – This camera is working again too:
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; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.
BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on X (ex-Twitter) shows whether the city’s movable bridges are open for vessel traffic.
If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
Thanks to Sharon Leishman with the Duwamish Alive! Coalition for calling our attention to your chance to vote right now on how the city should spend $5 million set aside for community-proposed projects. It’s called the CommUNITY fund. Projects are proposed in regions of the city, and you can cast one ballot per region, with up to three projects on your ballot, signifying that’s where you’d like to see the money go. Projects from West Seattle and South Park are in the West Region, with five up for a share of funding in this regional vote:
*Duwamish art and signage at Herring’s House Park
*Covered shelter at Roxhill Park
*Accessible playground surfacing at Southwest Teen Life Center
*Outdoor exercise equipment in South Park
The West Region page also includes three citywide proposals. You can vote in the other regions too, regardless of where you live – voting for all four regions starts here. Read more about the CommUNITY Fund voting here; voting continues through the end of this month. Then Parks staff will assess the results and make announcements this fall.
(Mia Tran painting outside Crawfish House)
5:46 PM: Thanks to Meghan for the tip on this new monthly event launching tonight in White Center and South Delridge! The first-ever Rat City Art and Food Walk – organized by the White Center Business Alliance – is happening right now, continuing until 9 pm and, at some venues, beyond. Here’s the list of participants as published by organizers:
1. 2 Fingers Social – Live Painting, DJ, Tattoos!
2. Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery – Vecinos Art Show
3. Nacho Mama – $5 Mini Native Tacos
4. Misfits Strength Studio – Circus Art
5. Boombox – Karaoke 9 pm-close
6. Lumberyard – Live Art, GameNite 8pm, Happy Hour 4-7 pm
7. Mynt – Gift with Mural Selfie and Social Media Post
8. Alebrijes Oaxacan Kitchen – Kids/Youth Painting & Food Specials
9. Big Mario’s Pizza and Alpine Diner – Live Music & Food Specials
10. Southgate Roller Rink Bar – Karaoke w/ Baby Metten
11. Tim’s Tavern – Live Music W/ Dusty 45s & Tropical Itch Art By Henry Ward
12. Sap Sap Lao Deli – Meatball Skewer Special & Tofu & Gluten Free Sauce Special
13. Que Chevere – Latin Music & Food Specials
14. Crawfish House – Live Painting by Mia
15. Puffy Pandy – DJ, Live Painting, Interactive Panda Mural, Artist Marketplace, $5 Ice Cream Puffys
16. Lariat Bar – Live Art by Nolan Harris & Market by John X Garaizar & Sing in the Ring Karaoke with Christopher Mychael
17. Blu Grouse – Gears N Beers
More photos to come.
6:46 PM: We visited what are essentially the north and south ends of tonight’s zone. Next to the artist in our top photo, MG Creations is at work outside Puffy Pandy:
Across 16th at wrestling-themed Lariat Bar, wrestling-themed art is being created by Nolanium:
At the north end, 2 Fingers Social was jumping – multiple artists, including Rosie Pringle with Super Nature:
Outside, a shave-ice pop-up with White Center’s own Patrick’s Café and Bakery:
You can wander until 9 pm – and make plans for the second Rat City Art and Food Walk on September 19.
ORIGINAL 3:24 PM REPORT: The photo was sent by Pierre, who’s wondering if someone might be missing these:
I just realized some bags were discarded in my backyard. I haven’t looked inside and it could be trash, but it could also be stolen.
The items were found in the Sunrise Heights area.
4:41 PM: We just got this reader report of a similar type from another reader, so we’re adding it here:
I found this bag lying in the middle of 16th Ave SW in Highland Park last week. It contains several items but no identification. If someone is able to describe the items, I’m happy to return it to them.
If any of the above might be yours, email us – westseattleblog@gmail.com – and we’ll connect you.
(WSB photo, June)
That’s Chloe Bolduc, who we told you about in our coverage of local amateur-radio operators’ – aka hams – Field Day at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) on Puget Ridge back in June. She was working on a project to communicate with the International Space Station. Tomorrow’s the big day – and you’re invited, though it’s happening off-peninsula, at the Pacific Science Center downtown (200 2nd Ave. N.) The West Seattle Amateur Radio Club will be there setting up equipment in advance of the doors to the event venue opening at 10:15 am (the Science Center opens at 10). Before the contact window, event participants will be giving short presentations on emergency communications and on the ISS; then a video introduction is planned for astronaut Dr. Jeanette J. Epps, who’s been aboard the ISS as a flight engineer since March and is an amateur-operator herself. The contact is scheduled for 11:15-11:25 am, with a Q&A panel to follow. If you can’t make it to the Pacific Science Center (which charges an admission fee), the event also will be livestreamed – here and here – and amateur-radio operators can listen in, during the 10-minute contact window, at 145.800MHz.
In case you haven’t already seen it in our calendar: The Salvation Army is having a fundraising 5K on Saturday (August 17), and part of the course involves a street closure. The Fund Run will close SW Barton on Saturday morning; the course is described as, “from the White Center Salvation Army parking lot [9050 16th SW], east on Barton up to Westcrest Park, where a designated loop will be set up with volunteers, and then back to the Salvation Army. SW Barton Street will be closed between 8th Ave and 16th Ave.” The run starts at 9 am, with 5K and 1K options; registration is still open. They’re fundraising for ongoing community programs including senior lunches, day camps, and after-school services.
(Image: SDOT camera)
Here’s what’s happening for the rest of your Thursday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: If you need late-summer-and-beyond plants, the center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Annuals, perennials, sun, shade, natives, edibles, ground covers … wide variety!
EAT THE RAINBOW: Interactive presentation to teach kids about plant-based nutrition, 11 am at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
SPRAYPARK: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) is open every day through Labor Day, 11 am-8 pm, free.
COLMAN POOL: You can swim today in the outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.
LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Also at Lincoln Park, the 7-day-a-week wading pool is open today noon-7 pm, in the central upper part of the park near the north play area.
DELRIDGE & HIAWATHA WADING POOLS: These two part-time wading pools are also open today, noon-5:30 pm. (4501 Delridge Way SW and 2700 California SW)
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: All levels welcome to this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com for info on where they’re playing today.
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY: Tasting room/wine bar open Thursdays-Saturdays 1 pm-6 pm, north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus. Food too – stop by to sip and nosh!
STRONG BODIES, STRONG BONES: 2:30 pm yoga class at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: Every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight you’ll find C. Davis Texas BBQ at HPCS.
VISCON CELLARS: Along with Art Walk participation, the West Seattle winery’s tasting room/wine bar is open 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) for wine by the glass or bottle.
(added) RAT CITY ART AND FOOD WALK: Thanks to Meghan for the tip on this! New monthly event, debuting 5-8 pm tonight in South Delridge and White Center – info here.
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fauntleroy for a group walk in Lincoln Park – details in our calendar listing.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: Meet at Good Society (California/Lander) at 6 pm for a 3-mile run.
RETRO VINYL X 2: Depeche Mike at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), 6-9 pm; Brian Rauschenbach at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), 9 pm. No cover.
HIGHLAND PARK RUN CLUB: 6:30 pm, meet at Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) for a 3-mile run through the neighborhood. (Walking option, too!)
BLUES NIGHT: 6:30-9 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way), every Thursday it’s blues night.
TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th SW).
AT THE SKYLARK: All-local hip-hop show – YJTGM x DMNT presents PXSSIONEYE and special guests, 7:30 pm, 18+, $15 at the door. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
More than two dozen wineries are in the lineup for the fall Wine Walk, presented by the West Seattle Junction Association, set for 5-9 pm Friday, September 27th. Wine Walk tickets have just gone on sale, and usually sell out, so you might want to buy yours sooner rather than later. Tickets are $37 for 14 tastes plus a logo wine glass and bottle tote. On Wine Walk night, you’ll check in either at Jet City Labs (4547 California SW) or Row House (4203 SW Oregon) and you’ll get a map showing which businesses are hosting which wineries. Ticketholders will also be able to buy bottles tax-free as well as additional sips. Your ticket awaits you here!
7:44 AM: Crash is blocking eastbound bridge ramp to NB 99. Texter says a car is “spun sideways.” High bridge traffic is moving very slowly as a result.
7:56 AM: The assigned SFD units just all cleared.
7:59 AM: @SDOTTraffic has finally acknowledged this and spun the bridge camera to look at the scene.
8:08 AM: Ramp still closed, looks like a cleanup crew at the scene.
8:13 AM: Officers just confirmed that to dispatch, saying the crashed car has been towed but the incident-response team is working on a fluid spill.
8:31 AM: New problem – broken-down RapidRide bus reported to be blocking a lane on NB 99 at Atlantic.
8:46 AM: SDOT reports the scene is now clear and the ramp has reopened.
Earlier:
6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, August 15.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL
Remember that Summit Atlas, the charter middle/high school at 35th/Roxbury, is in session.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Today’s forecast, same as yesterday: Cloudy, then clearing, high in the low 70s. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:06 am, while sunset will be at 8:20 pm.
(Wednesday sunset, photographed by Carol Ann Joyce)
TRANSIT NOTES
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule for both routes.
Metro buses today – Regular schedules; check for advisories here.
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, and the unscheduled third boat may be available. Check that link before you sail.
SPOKANE ST. VIADUCT CLOSURES
See the schedule here for this week’s planned closures for the Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project, and remember it’s always subject to last-minute change.
Scheduled tonight: 7 pm-6 am, eastbound left lanes closed, exits to 99, 1st, 4th open.
OTHER ROAD WORK NOTES
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project is in progress. Fairmount Avenue is closed under the bridge for the duration of the project, at least into early 2025. Lane closures have begun on the top deck too.
*The East Marginal Way S. project continues, with a temporary routing change for bicycle riders starting this week:
People biking will be routed onto the street of E Marginal Way S in temporary protected bike lanes from S Spokane St to north of the Terminal 30 parking lot at approximately S Stacy St. At the T30 parking lot / S Stacy St, people will be routed back into the existing bike lanes and sidewalk on the west side of the street. Please note that the T30 parking lot is south of the main T30 entrance.
*The Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project also continues, with narrowing at Delridge/Oregon.
*Beach Drive: Gas-pipeline work continues at spots along the southern stretch. Watch for no-parking zones and steel plates, plus flaggers.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera:
Spokane Street Viaduct – This view looks westward, with eastbound lanes at left and westbound lanes at right:
Low bridge: Here’s the main view:
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; West Seattle and vicinity-relevant cameras are on this WSB page.
BRIDGE INFO: The @SDOTBridges feed on X (ex-Twitter) shows whether the city’s movable bridges are open for vessel traffic.
If you see a problem on the bridges/streets/paths/water, please text or call our hotline (when you can do that safely, and after you’ve reported to authorities if they’re not already on scene) – 206-293-6302. Thank you!
9:47 PM: Thanks for the texts and photos. Across Puget Sound, what appears to be a new wildfire is burning on the Olympic Peninsula, visible from West Seattle (as shown above). We’re still looking for specifics. Fred sent this photo from friends in Seabeck [map], looking west across Hood Canal:
UPDATE: Just a moment after we published this – this fire-watching X/Twitter user says it’s fire 2620 and that DNR (the state Department of Natural Resources) is on it.
ADDED THURSDAY MORNING: Texter notes that the Brinnon FD was the initial responder on this. They describe the fire as being on Mount Jupiter and report that DNR has taken over.
ADDED THURSDAY AFTERNOON: Thanks to Lorabeth for that photo of the view from North Admiral last night. Meantime, DNR has sent its first news release about the “2620 Road Fire,” including this:
State fire assistance has been mobilized under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan in support of local firefighters working to contain the 2620 Fire located in Jefferson County, near the town of Brinnon. Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste authorized the mobilization of state firefighting resources on August 15, 2024, at 12:45 p.m. at the request of Fire Chief Tim Manly, Brinnon Fire Department.
The 2620 Road Fire started on August 14, 2024, at approximately 5:00 p.m. This fire is estimated at 150 acres and growing. It is burning in slash and timber and is threatening homes. Level 1 and 2 evacuations are in effect at this time. The fire cause is currently under investigation.
The State Emergency Operations Center at Camp Murray is activated to Level 2, partial activation, to help coordinate state assistance for the 2620 Road Fire. Mobilization specialists from the Fire Protection Bureau have ordered two strike teams to help aid in containment efforts. State Fire Marshal’s Office personnel are working remotely to coordinate the dispatch of resources.
(WSB file photo)
SDOT says it’s giving a “comprehensive review” to a letter three community groups sent regarding the Highland Park Way hill lane-conversion proposal. We’ve been reporting on the proposal since May; SDOT says it plans to convert one downhill driving lane into either a bicycle lane, a new multipurpose path, or both. Here’s the letter sent last month by HPAC, West Seattle Bike Connections, and the Morgan Community Association, spelling out concerns and offering two additional options. Here’s the letter in its entirety:
Dear Highland Park Connection Team, SDOT, & Seattle City Council Transportation Committee Members –
Thank you for the initial round of presentations aimed to improve public safety infrastructure on Highland Park Way SW, AKA Boeing Hill. We appreciate the robust effort you all made to get out into the community of users of this route.
Highland Park Way SW is a major transportation route from West Seattle. Capacity and transportation options for travel by bus, car, truck and bike are critical for resiliency of the transportation network, as we have painfully learned from the recent extended closure of the West Seattle high bridge. Added to the corridor is increasing Single Occupancy Vehicle traffic from the Vashon/Southworth/Fauntleroy ferry route and growing housing density in the region.
Highland Park Way SW is also a key segment of a potential mid-peninsula east-west bike route over the ridges and valleys connecting Morgan Junction, High Point, Delridge, Highland Park and the Duwamish Trail and South Park.
From speaking with SDOT staff and our constituencies over the last month of outreach we all agree with the perception that the hill:
• Encourages vehicle speeding and unsafe driving practices due to the 11% grade.
• Needs better facilities separated from vehicle traffic for those walking, biking and rolling.We also heard numerous remarks regarding the lack of solutions offered by SDOT for improvements. All options put to the public so far were variations of a single idea. Will the agency be listening to the feedback from the public and pivoting to responsive design options, or just checking the “outreach completed” box in their workplan? Working in true partnership with community is a two-way communication.
Concerns we have heard about the design to date:
• Loss of vehicle carrying capacity and lanes needed to stack vehicles at the bottom of the hill as drivers self-sort to access West Marginal, the First Ave South Bridge, SR599 and SR509.
• Unsafe bus/bike/vehicle interactions as coaches stop to serve transit riders.
• Driver fear of head on interactions with opposing traffic.
• Loss of capacity for large semi-trucks, garbage trucks, emergency vehicles, snowplows,
tandem gravel trucks, and the like. While not designated as a “freight route”, the fact of the matter is that it is frequently used as such by delivery vehicles of all sorts and sizes.
• Reduction in resiliency of the route (which is prone to interruption by landslides, downed trees, accidents, etc.) The five lanes at the base of the hill are needed to route traffic around these short and historically long term interruptions as noted by Seattle Police Department.
• As has been stated numerous times in public conversations, this route is an essential option for folks living on the West Seattle peninsula at large to access the rest of the City, providing redundancy in emergency situations such as the closure of the West Seattle High Bridge, low bridge maintenance, etc.
• Pedestrians and drivers fear of road rage incidents from choked off traffic produced in a single lane of downhill traffic.
• Adverse Impacts to egress/ingress for residents on the east side of Highland Park Way who rely on SW Othello St. There are at least 79 households currently that rely on that route to get out of the neighborhood.
• High volumes of runoff water on the roadway surface during rain events causing unsafe conditions for bike-riders.
• Non-intuitive bike riding on the “wrong side”, riding on the left of oncoming bike riders instead of on the right in two-way bike lanes.
• This type of roadway design should not be considered as ‘one size fits all.’ The improvements should be related to the unique hillside conditions as well as the needs of the project.
• We have seen multiple examples of this sort of bicycle mitigation done as “paint-and-post” protected bike lanes on other city streets. Protection for cyclists is minimal, and much of it appears as clutter to our city, with frequent vehicle damage breaking off white poles and creating garbage in the roadway. This is an entry portal into our area, a beautiful greenspace and natural corridor. Any work done should complement this in design and materials and provide robust protection for people biking and walking.
• Our area has been overlooked for decades by the City and lacks infrastructure taken for granted elsewhere. We expect this project to be a step to rectify this in a quality manner.In conclusion, given these concerns, we are not satisfied that this is the best solution that can be attained for the two problems above. We urge SDOT to go back to the drawing board, and suggest study of the following ideas:
Option 4:
• Replace the existing narrow asphalt sidewalk with a wide multi-use path on south side, outside of existing roadway, with a curb separating downhill bike from uphill bike/pedestrian traffic. Unlike the SDOT concepts, put the downhill bike lane on the right of uphill lane (as is the custom in the US).
• Avoid the dangers of bus pullouts into a downhill bike lane as in SDOT concepts. There is plenty of right-of-way width for a good design. Toward the top and at the base of the hill some retaining walls will be needed, some poles will need to be relocated and a small number of trees would need to be removed. It is worth funding a project that meets safety standards and is intuitive, comfortable, and predictable for all users.
• Maintain existing vehicle lane configurations.
• Enforce speed limits with enforcement cameras and police patrols.Option 5:
• Narrow HP Way SW to one vehicle lane at the top of the hill as cars start downhill from the Highland /Holden intersection. Convert the right-hand lane for downhill bike traffic and replace the existing sidewalk with a multi-use path for uphill bike and uphill and downhill pedestrian use.
• As traffic reaches Othello St, move all bike and pedestrian traffic off road to the right onto a widened and improved off-road bike/pedestrian pathway. This allows the bus coaches to pull over to serve the Othello bus stop while letting vehicle drivers pass them to the left. It also keeps this area wider where the most active landslide slopes are on the uphill side.
• As the roadway opens up into two downhill lanes, vehicles will be approaching the curve, where most drivers naturally slow down, keeping traffic speeds down.
• The right of way below Othello Street is much wider at this point and can support a widened bike path without retaining walls until near the base of the hill.Note that Option 5 would cost less than option 4, but is less intuitive for bike riders, requiring either a bike crossover at Othello, or riding on the “wrong side” on the lower section as in SDOT’s options.
We understand that solutions retaining the lower three eastbound downhill traffic lanes may require more work like drainage and retaining walls on the trail, but feel that the option should be studied. We also suggest consideration of automated camera enforcement of the speed limit in any solution proposed.
We also suggest a pilot of any design(s) chosen to go forward that would reduce vehicle roadway width. By installing temporary orange traffic buffers like those recently placed on the 4th Avenue South Bridge drivers can experience the conditions and make further improvement suggestions.
We look forward working together in authentic collaboration to develop a safer route for all.
Highland Park, Riverview & South Delridge Action Coalition (HPAC)
West Seattle Bike Connections (WSBC)
Morgan Community Association (MoCA)
SDOT’s James Le sent the groups an acknowledgment of the letter yesterday, six weeks after they sent it to SDOT; he wrote, “We want to assure you that we have received your letter and we’re taking a comprehensive review. Thank you for your understanding. We’ll get back to you with our response soon.” HPAC’s Kay Kirkpatrick confirmed that was the first they’d heard from SDOT since sending the letter (which you can read in PDF here).
If you know a student who could use some help gearing up for the new school year, they’ll want to be at Southwest Teen Life Center (2801 SW Thistle) this Friday afternoon – here’s why:
(2023 photo courtesy 1World1Sky)
1World1Sky is pleased to announce the “Backpack for Kids: Summer Bash” event, taking place in the heart of West Seattle. In collaboration with the Seattle Police Department (SPD), Target, Operation Engage, and other valued community partners, we are hosting an exciting Back-to-School celebration on August 16th from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Southwest Teen Life Center.
The event will feature a giveaway of over 600 backpacks filled with essential school supplies, helping families prepare for the upcoming school year. Attendees can also enjoy a range of summer activities, including a BBQ provided by SPD, games, inflatables, a live DJ, and more. With offerings for students from Kindergarten through high school, there’s something for everyone.
We invite you to join us at the Southwest Teen Life Center on August 16th as we celebrate the end of summer and the start of a fantastic school year!
Three updates to share:
SHIPSHIP: If you haven’t been to Jefferson Square lately, you might not know that what used to be The UPS Store is still in operation, with a different name. Here’s what they want you to know:
We are thrilled to announce that The UPS Store has transitioned to an independent shipping store under the new name ShipShip! While our name has changed, our commitment remains the same. We’re still locally owned and operated, with the same friendly staff you know and trust.
As part of their transition celebration, they’re offering BOGO on mailbox services – 3-, 6-, and 12-month plans.
HOMESTREET BANK: You have two more weeks to get into the West Seattle branch (41st/Alaska; WSB sponsor) to see their latest local-organization showcase, for West Seattle Food Bank. Earlier this summer, they showcased Menashe and Sons Jewelers for two months, and Jack Menashe returned (below, with HomeStreet’s Sharon Lingbloom and Andrew Tento) to draw a winner for a gift certificate:
Enter the new HomeStreet drawing when you visit and see what WSFB is offering for a donated prize!
EX-SWINERY OWNERS: Kim promised updates after The Swinery closed, and sent this:
Hello, dear friends and customers. We miss you all so much. I want to give you an update. We are now happily settled in, and working at Elliott Bay Brewery on California Ave. We’ve always loved their food, and their staff are so much fun. We are learning a lot of new things and having an amazing time. Please stop by for a bite, delicious beer and a hug.
(Got a biznote? westseattleblog@gmail.com – thanks!)
Romance-novel lovers have a place to meet their match(es) this Saturday in West Seattle. We just heard about the Emerald City Romance authors and readers event, noon-5 pm Saturday (August 17) in Brockey Center at South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) – promising “author meet-and-greets, book signings, flash tattoo art, and more.” More than 50 authors will be there:
There are two tiers of tickets – $10 general admission, $30 VIP admission to get in early (11 am), both available here. Thanks to one of the participating authors, West Seattle resident Annie Marcus (who’ll be there with her first book “Small Town Romance“), for sending word about the event!
For 30 years, the Seattle Public Library has welcomed volunteers to help local students with their homework during drop-in after-school hours. This year, they’re recruiting volunteers for free Homework Help tutoring at the High Point and South Park branches. Citywide, last school year, SPL says 1,100 students used Homework Help more than 4,400 times, aided by more than 180 volunteers. SPL says 60 percent of the students reported better grades as a result of the help they received. You can be part of kids’ success this year! Here’s what SPL wants prospective volunteers to know:
The Library requests a volunteer commitment for the school year, specifically from Sept. 16, 2024 through June 12, 2025. Volunteer shifts are available Monday through Thursday between 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and each shift is approximately two hours.
Volunteers must be 18 or older. Having competence in another language, especially Amharic, Tigrinya, Somali, Oromo and Spanish, is also helpful. The majority of students served by the program are youth of color, with 90% of students reporting their parents speaking a language other than English at home.
Volunteer tutors receive an orientation and additional materials about working with youth and concepts such as social-emotional learning and growth mindset.
During Homework Help sessions, volunteers help students with homework, play learning games, read to students, or work with them on academic worksheets. Volunteers work with students individually and in small groups. High-school students can get help with not just academic subjects but with other priorities such as college essays.
Because Homework Help is a drop-in program, students can show up any day to receive help, and they do not need to have a Library card to attend. Snacks are provided at every Homework Help session, courtesy of The Seattle Public Library Foundation and the Hunger Intervention Program.
Can you help? Or, have a question? You can email SPL’s Volunteer Services Coordinator at volunteer@spl.org (and find more info here). They’re hoping to hear from new volunteers ASAP as the new school year approaches, but they do also accept volunteer applications throughout the year.
(Photo by Jerry Simmons)
Here’s our list of what’s happening today/tonight in West Seattle, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can always preview the hours, days, and weeks ahead!):
DONATE FOOD! The almost-daily summer food-donation drive continues for one more week at Admiral Church (4320 SW Hill) – you can drop off nonperishable items until noon.
TODDLER READING TIME: 10:30 am Wednesdays at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).
SPRAYPARK: Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) is open every day, 11 am-8 pm, free.
COLMAN POOL: Swim in the outdoor heated-salt-water pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm – session times are on the Colman Pool webpage.
LINCOLN PARK WADING POOL: Also at Lincoln Park, the 7-day-a-week wading pool is open noon-7 pm, in the central upper part of the park near the north play area.
DELRIDGE WADING POOL: Also open today, next to Delridge Community Center, noon-5:30 pm. (4501 Delridge Way SW)
TODDLER STORY TIME AT THE LIBRARY: 3 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
SUMMER OF LEARNING CELEBRATION: Kids who participated in the Summer of Learning program are invited, with their families, to a celebration 3-4:30 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW).
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Fix it, don’t toss it! Weekly event, free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center).
FREE ART CLASS: Watercolor mixed-media class, at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW), 6-8 pm.
FREE GROUP RUNS: All runners, all levels, are welcome to join the weekly West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) group run – meet at the shop by 6:15 pm.
FULL FIT INFO NIGHT: Also at West Seattle Runner, 6:30 pm, info night for the Full Fit free group-training program to get ready for a full marathon
TRIVIA x 4: Four places where you play tonight: At 6 pm, Locust Cider (2820 Alki SW) offers trivia … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) hosts Wednesday-night trivia starting at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night begins at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … and at 8:30 pm, trivia with Phil T at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).
34TH DISTRICT DEMOCRATS: 6:30 pm pre-meeting program spotlights Get Out The Vote work with Postcards to Voters; 7:30 pm meeting includes half-hour Town Hall with County Executive Dow Constantine and Deputy County Executive Shannon Braddock, plus endorsement votes. In-person meeting at Alki Masonic Center (40th/Edmunds).
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer slate. (7902 35th SW)
YOGA IN THE PARK: Two West Seattle teachers lead this outdoor-yoga event at Myrtle Reservoir Park (35th/Myrtle), 6:30 pm – follow the link for ticket info.
ALKI UCC CONCERT SERIES: Tonight at 7 pm, <strong>Eric Likkel Trio (jazz) in the side courtyard. Free but $20 donation suggested for the musicians. (6115 SW Hinds)
MUSIC BINGO X 2: Two options! Play weekly at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm … At Three 9 Lounge (39th/Oregon), you can play MINGO music bingo at 7:30 pm Wednesdays, hosted by Mingo Maniac.
OUTDOOR YOGA AND MORE: Outdoor Kundalini Yoga, Breath Work, Meditation and Gong Bath, 7 pm at Solstice Park (7400 Fauntleroy Way SW), ticket info in our calendar listing.
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: The spotlight is yours! 7:30 pm signups for West Seattle’s longest-running open mic. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
Planning a show, presentation, meeting, open house, reading, tour, fundraiser, sale, discussion, etc., that’s open to the community? Please send us info so we can get it onto West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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