West Seattle, Washington
09 Monday
With the Seattle FIFA Wprld Cup matches now a little more than three months away, readiness was part of the focus of this morning’s meeting of what’s become known as the City Council’s STEPS Committee, chaired by District 1 Councilmember Rob Saka. You can see the full video above; we tuned in for the meeting’s final scheduled briefing, about transit access. While no specifics were offered, a Metro rep confirmed that West Seattle Water Taxi service would be beefed up, not just on match days but throughout the entire World Cup period in June and July.
They’re also planning to add service on many Metro bus routes, though no specifics were cited there either. Other transit services gave toplines on their plans too, as you can see in the video and briefing slide deck if interested.
Speaking of big sporting events and transit, Metro was asked about bus ridership on Super Bowl parade day last month. No, it didn’t set a record, was the response.
(WSB photo, Seacrest, Super Bowl parade day last month)
Coincidentally, though this wasn’t part of today’s meeting, we have finally received the numbers for Water Taxi ridership on parade day, in a request we’ve had out since shortly after the parade. It didn’t set a record either, says Metro’s Jeff Switzer, providing these stats: “5,435 boardings on West Seattle water taxi (second highest ever, compared to 7,721 for the Sub Pop Festival, Aug. 11, 2018. There were 4,592 riders on Super Bowl parade day on Feb. 4, 2014.)”
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
SDOT has made another change in its plan for replacing a downhill driving lane on the Highland Park Way hill with a biking/walking/rolling lane.
Now, instead of separating the lane from motor-vehicle traffic with curbing, SDOT reps told an online community meeting last night, they’ll separate it with jersey barriers.
That makes the lane separation removable if the hill needs to be restored to four driving lanes – a “break glass in case of emergency” type of failsafe, as it was described at one point.
That wasn’t much consolation to project opponents among the attendees, who continued to express concern about backups even in routine times.
Also last night, co-chair Kay Kirkpatrick of the neighborhood coalition HPAC secured a commitment from SDOT communicator Dan Anderson to bring project-team reps to this month’s HPAC meeting – something she’s been requesting for many months. The online meeting format last night was also somewhat awkward; of note, though SDOT had a seven-person team available live, the narrated presentation toward the start was pre-recorded (they promised it would be added to the website “after the meeting” though as of this writing, it’s not there yet. We did obtain the full slide deck, from which most of the visuals in this report were taken – see that here.)
The proposal is not new, though one attendee lambasted SDOT for not getting the word out as thoroughly as befits a project that will affect road users who come from far beyond Highland Park to travel toward West Marginal Way, the 1st Avenue South Bridge, South Park, and elsewhere. From the slide deck, here’s the latest “early design” version of the “typical” crossection that would result:
The slide deck also focused on the plan for access to the hill from both residential streets and the near-the-hill-bottom Pioneer Industries, including:
And two options were offered for the bottom of the hill, where it meets West Marginal Way:
Another point of contention during the meeting, besides general opposition to the lane conversion, was the rationale for it. SDOT reps insisted that this is not a “bicycle project” but rather a “safety project,” that in its current configuration, two lanes each way, the road cannot be made safe enough for city standards, so it has to be redesigned. And, the questions continued, why does this seem to be so high up on the priority list when other seemingly more urgent matters – like the crash-prone section of the westbound West Seattle Bridge by “the curve” – have not had this kind of attention? Bicycling came more into play in the answer to this – that it was identified as a “gap” in the city bike network, to connect to the Duwamish River Trail, “part of a regional gap to fill,” said SDOT’s Christiana Farrell, who works on the city’s Bicycle Master Plan. As it has in many previous discussions, the point was made that few people currently walk/bike on the hill. And the answer as always could be distilled to (as the old movie quote goes) “if you build it, they will come.”
Speaking of low usage, all current bus stops on the hill will remain though they currently are experiencing that, according to SDOT. The low bus-stop usage was also cited in response to a question about what happens if a bike rider is headed downhill at the time a stopped bus is blocking the lane
What about emergency responders – have they been asked about how the loss of a driving lane might affect them? asked another attendee. Anderson said SFD and SPD had been consulted and had “no major concerns,” adding that other similar (unnamed) projects in the city had not resulted in problems; three lanes on the hill should provide them a way to get around if they need to, he said,
Still, meeting participants’ concerns were not quelled. One cited traumatic experiences from past backup problems, and working for years just to get the Highland Park Way/Holden intersection’s challenges addressed – something that had dragged on for years, and suddenly was addressed in a matter of days after the West Seattle Bridge closure in 2020 turned Holden into a major detour route. Another participant, observing that the situation was “miserable” during the 2 1/2-year bridge closure, said, “We care about safety, but we care about our mental health” – she and others contended that the hill’s vast majority of users are drivers and their concerns and opinions should get the most attention. “I’m astonished this idea has advanced to this point,” said yet another attendee.
SDOT stuck to its contention, however, that “even (significant opposition) doesn’t mean we don’t have a duty to safer streets.”
The meeting ran almost two hours, longer than planned. Assuming SDOT does indeed attend the next HPAC meeting, that would be March 25, time and location TBA. Here, meantime, is the project timeline presented last night:
BACKSTORY: In 2020, SDOT had a plan for a bike lane on the Highland Park Way hill, but put it on hold. The concept re-emerged in a 2022 application for federal funding. Then in May 2024, SDOT formally announced a plan for a downhill bike lane and/or expanded path along about half a mile of the hill.
11:33 AM: Thanks to Kersti for the tip and photo. SFD and SPD crews are at California/Graham right now for what’s logged as a gas-leak response.
11:49 AM: The response, logged for a residential address just west of the intersection, is wrapping up. We’re following up with SFD.
12:51 PM: Here’s SFD’s wrapup, via spokesperson Kaila Lafferty: “At 10:50 a.m., crews were dispatched to a report of a natural gas leak on the exterior of a residence at 44th Ave SW & SW Graham St. Crews arrived and detected levels of natural gas. Puget Sound Energy responded and secured the leak. Crews returned to service by 12:02 p.m. No injuries reported.”
(Cormorants afloat – photographed by Rainer Klett)
So many possibilities on our list for the hours ahead! Most are from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – thanks again to everyone who sends events for us to list!):
FREE PLAYSPACE: West Seattle Church of the Nazarene is hosting playspace today until noon. (42nd SW & SW Juneau)
GATHERING AT THE VOID: Escape your home office for a few hours! “Work, Game, Craft, or Chat! At The Void” hangout at The Void, 10 am-noon Thursdays. (5048 California SW)
WEST SEATTLE COMMUNITY RUN/WALK: New free, fun gathering, 10 am, starting from Lincoln Park parking lot #2 – so if you didn’t see it in our calendar in time, make a note on yours for next week! (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Whether you’re planting or planning – the center is open Thursdays-Saturdays 10 am-3 pm – north end of the South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus.
TODDLER STORY TIME IN WESTWOOD: 10:30 pm at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
PRESCHOOL STORY TIME IN ADMIRAL: West Seattle Library story time (2306 42nd SW), 10:30 am.
NAVIGATING MEDICARE: Cut through the confusion with this 11 am presentation, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: From newbie to pro, all levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email westseattleukuleleplayerswsup@gmail.com to see where they’re playing today. (Even if you just want to know so you can go listen!)
GIRL SCOUT COOKIE BOOTHS CONTINUE: Look for nearby booth locations and times here. (And scroll down for the time/location of one we’ve heard about directly, in Highland Park.)
DROP-IN CHESS: High Point Library‘s weekly event is on today, 4-5:30 pm for players under 18. (3411 SW Raymond)
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of three Thursday night events at HPCS this week – every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) gets a food-truck visit. Tonight it’s Spice on Curve .
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
ALSO AT HPCS AT 4 PM: Girl Scout Cookies!
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open 5-8 pm for your tool-borrowing needs. (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center)
VISCON CELLARS: This West Seattle winery’s friendly tasting room/wine bar is open Thursdays, 5-9 pm (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor), for wine by the glass or bottle!
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT GLASSYARD COMMONS RV/TINY-HOUSE SITE: Prospective operator LIHI holds a community meeting at 5:30 pm with information and Q&A about the Highland Park Way/2nd SW site planned for 72 RVs and 20 tiny houses. It’s at New Direction Missionary Baptist Church (755 S. Homer) in Georgetown.
YMCA FUND DRIVE KICKOFF: The season of support for the West Seattle and Fauntleroy Y (WSB sponsor) begins with the annual fund-drive dinner at 6 pm at Fauntleroy Church/Y (9140 California SW). Our calendar listing has the RSVP form.
POKEMON LEAGUE: 6 pm Thursdays at Fourth Emerald Games (4517 California SW, upstairs) – bring your own console.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm, starting from Future Primitive Beach Bar (2536 Alki SW), you’re welcome to join the Westies Run Club‘s Thursday night community run!
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: If you’d rather walk, meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fontanelle for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.
TEEN MENTAL HEALTH: If there’s a teenager in your life, this is potentially lifesaving information. Be at the West Seattle HS Library (3000 California SW) for the presentation at 6 pm, regardless of where your teen goes to school.
LIVE AT TIM’S: Doors 6, show 7 pm, with Fast Nasties & Tyler McGinnis. no cover, all ages. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
WEST SEATTLE BOOK CLUB: The monthly night to pick a venue, bring your choice of books, read, then chat – or don’t! 7 pm; our calendar listing includes this month’s venues, in West Seattle, White Center, and South Park.
COMEDY IN THE JUNCTION: 8 pm at Great American Diner and Bar (4752 California SW), with headliner Rodger Lizaola, and up to 4 guest comedians! Get tickets here.
TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE VOID: Newest West Seattle trivia night! 7:30 pm, with prizes, at The Void (5048 California SW).
DJ NIGHT AT REVELRY ROOM: Spinning happens tonight at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), with DJ B Max, starting at 8 pm. 21+.
Are you planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Spring is near and so are baseball and softball. You can support West Seattle Little League and its hundreds of players via this year’s silent auction. Here’s the announcement sent to us to share with you:
West Seattle Little League’s Silent Auction
Step up to the plate for West Seattle Little League’s Silent Auction Your bids help keep our fields safe, our equipment ready, and our teams welcoming for every kid who wants to play.
Every item you win supports youth baseball and softball — from uniforms and gear to field maintenance and training. Thank you for backing our players, their coaches, and the community that cheers them on.
West Seattle Little League proudly serves more than 800 local youth through our baseball and softball programs — including our new Softball Division and Challenger Program for children with additional needs.
We focus on sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, and fun, right alongside teaching baseball and softball fundamentals.
Our league is 100% volunteer-operated, and thanks to the generous support of sponsors and donors, our Board of Directors can continue improving the experience for every player and family we serve.
Your contributions directly support our mission by helping us:
-Continuously enhance and maintain the Bar-S fields to the highest standards.
-Provide scholarships and equipment to ensure every child can play.
-Support our mentorship programs and community events.
-Cover team gear, field rentals, and league expenses.
-Fund important capital improvement projects that keep WSLL growing strong.
You can browse and bid here, through Saturday, March 14.
8:50 AM: Texter reports major backups on routes to the eastbound bridge such as Admiral and Delridge. No alerts that we can find.
Earlier:
6:00 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Thursday, March 5, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
More rain possible says the forecast – high in the low 50s. Sunrise at 6:41 am; sunset at 6:00 pm. (Starting this Sunday, sunsets will move to after 7 pm following the time change to “spring forward” an hour!)
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
1ST AVENUE S. BRIDGE ALERT UPDATE
Two lanes are still closed on the NB side of this bridge, and the speed limit remains 25 mph. WSDOT delivered its update Wednesday with three main points: #1, the northbound bridge will be closed next Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday for temporary repairs; #2, starting sometime in the second half of April, a longer NB closure for the second phase of repairs; next year, full replacement of the NB bridge deck. We’re pursuing followup questions toay.
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, winter schedule.
Washington State Ferries – Check WSF’s alert page for any changes to the 3-boat schedule.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule and routes.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge (see the expanded WSDOT alert above):
Delridge cameras: In addition to 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!
By Torin Record-Sand
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
West Seattle is not only a place that established members of the local tech industry call home, it’s also a place for budding and exceptional upcoming talent in STEM. This week, we sat down to check in with members of the Rocketry Club at West Seattle High School.
The club offers a variety of opportunities for students to get hands-on experience in applying STEM to real-world production. It combines elements of engineering, programming, building, self-finance, and outreach. “In a way, it’s really like a startup, with the variety of roles you need to take on,” they said when we spoke to a few of them about what it means to have access to this opportunity.
“Rocketry is an adventure. Both in the literal sense, driving out to Redmond on the weekends to launch, and the intellectual sense – we are constantly testing new ideas, constantly writing new features in the code to improve the efficacy of our control system, making many mistakes but importantly learning from said mistakes. The rollercoaster of success and ‘occasional’ failure, and the amount of exploring involved in this process, alongside the team camaraderie render rocketry the most exciting and influential extracurricular I have had the privilege of participating in during my time in high school.” said Aidan Busby.
“Rocketry is the foundation for my future. The club and competition have taught me the tools of patience, ingenuity, and perseverance; essential skills for my plans in entrepreneurship and engineering. Without rocketry, I would not have been able to push my limits and change the standards within WSHS.” said Nathan Vuong.
Both of them are aiming to continue studying STEM in university after graduating this year, looking at programs in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and aerospace/mechanical engineering.
This year, the club is also looking at opportunities to do local community outreach, something new for them. They’ll be looking to share and talk about their work, as well as provide a small demonstration of their rocket, to students at Genesee Hill Elementary later this month at the school’s STEM Night. They’re also looking for similar opportunities to engage other schools in the area, although nothing is finalized yet.
The club is also working on this year’s entry for the American Rocketry Challenge. This year’s challenge is to design a model rocket that will launch 750 feet in the air while carrying a single raw egg, and return to the ground within around 39 seconds with the egg completely intact.
(Parts of the airbrake for this year’s competition rocket)
The club needs around $1,500 for their current project, much of which will go toward allowing them to finish their model so they can compete in this year’s challenge.
As a student-led group, they are dependent almost entirely on self-finance for their projects. “Last year, in order to produce a rocket for competition, we had to spend almost $2,100 from our own projects to get it done.” the club said. They shared that one member of the club had even contributed almost $500 to the cause. And, they noted, the need for fundraising has been growing due to ongoing national events. “Electronics and parts shipping is up around 1.5 to 2 times this year due to tariffs and inflation. It hits a lot of our parts providers, some who are very small hobbyists selling things such as miniature parachutes practically out of their garage.” they said.
If you feel inclined, you can donate to the club via their page here – and the club says it’s a benefit for the wider community: “Contributing to our club is a good opportunity to lower the wealth gap in education, as well as help further STEM education and provide us with means to go and do further community outreach.”
(Recent WSB photo, 59th SW side of under-construction Alki Elementary)
As first reported here in January, newly expanded Alki Elementary – still under construction – will open this fall as a new site for the district’s Highly Capable (gifted) program. West Seattle/South Park families interested in sending their HC-eligible children there have until March 31 to sign up, and before then, an informational meeting is set for two weeks from tonight: Wednesday, March 18, 5-6 p.m. at Alki Elementary’s current interim site at the former Schmitz Park Elementary (5000 SW Spokane). Currently the nearest site for HC programming is at Thurgood Marshall Elementary, across the bridge and I-5; families who want to keep current students there can stay through 5th grade.
Texter says it’s been at 37th SW and SW Andover, door ajar, trashed interior, all day. They’re calling police in case no one’s already notified them.
(WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
In a West Seattle-rooted SODO factory, where volunteers build tiny houses to shelter unhoused people, Mayor Katie Wilson declared that volunteerism will help alleviate the homelessness crisis.
She announced an “all hands on deck” volunteerism campaign along with three pieces of legislation she’s sending to the City Council during a briefing this afternoon at The Hope Factory, which got its start as a tiny-house-building operation under a canopy on the grounds of Camp Second Chance, the tiny-house village in southeast West Seattle.
LIHI, which operates Camp Second Chance and will soon operate the Glassyard Commons RVs-and-tiny-houses site – also in West Seattle – also oversees The Hope Factory.
The cacophony of hammers and saws paused for about an hour so that Mayor Wilson and a roster of speakers involved with the homelessness response and related services – including LIHI leader Sharon Lee – could speak to the media crews they’d invited (us included). It was billed as “a major step forward in the citywide effort to rapidly expand shelter and bring people inside by opening 1,000 new units of shelter and emergency housing with supportive services this year. Lee and The Hope Factory’s Steve Roberts set the stage with more about the volunteer work there:
Then the mayor took the mic for her announcements:
She noted that though the city declared homelessness to be an emergency back in 2015, “the rates of unsheltered homelessness are off the charts” and in her view, Seattle hasn’t been acting like it’s an emergency. That means more shelter beds are imperative because, she said, there are twice as many unhoused people as shelter beds. So the legislation she’s sending the council will:
-Authorize the city Finance and Administrative Services Department to sign leases for sites
-Will raise the capacity limit on how many people “successful shelters” can host
-Redirect $4.8 million from “underutilized” city setasides
As for the volunteerism campaign, you can sign up here and indicate ways you might be able to help.
Wilson was followed by District 1 City Councilmember Rob Saka, who noted that this district bears a disproportionate share of RV residents so he’s glad the forthcoming Glassyard Commons site will have some set-aside space for vehicle dwellers from this district:
Overall, he seemed supportive of the mayor’s plan, declaring, “This is what progress looks like.”
Many of the other speakers basically made the case that the respective services they offer are successful too – Fé LopezGaetke, co-executive director from Purpose. Dignity. Action, which focuses on outreach among other things, said people need their situations to be stabilized before they can further advance/recover:
LopezGaetke was followed by a longtime community volunteer, Grace Stiller, who has been involved with Camp Second Chance since before it became a sanctioned tiny-house village. Her ongoing involvement includes participation in its Community Advisory Committee (which meets online monthly):
We’ll add video of the other speakers later. You can read more details on the mayor’s announcements on the city website. She did not hang around for questions after the speaker lineup was done; we asked her spokesperson why, and he explained, “She had a long-scheduled meeting at City Hall to hear from front-line workers who work at the Unified Care Team.” He also said, “We’re planning to schedule a longer briefing to dig into the details in the next week or two.”
Meantime, tomorrow night is the meeting about Glassyard Commons, 5:30 pm at 755 S. Homer in Georgetown. Though that site was mentioned a few times, today’s briefing did not get specific about other locations where more shelter capacity might be added if the mayor’s legislation is approved.
Hallie Kathryn 2025
Think global, sweat local! One of this area’s popular mobile sauna services is celebrating International Women’s Day by donating part of the proceeds Sunday to woman entrepreneurs in Uganda. Here’s the announcement:
Good Day Sauna, a women‑owned small business based in West Seattle, is hosting a special community event this Sunday, March 8, in honor of International Women’s Day. One‑hour sauna sessions will be offered for $40, and $15 from every ticket will directly support women‑owned small businesses in rural Uganda.
Each guest’s $5 contribution will be matched by both Good Day Sauna and All the Sky Foundation, tripling the impact of every booking. Funds will be directed to LINKAGES, a Ugandan social enterprise that provides microloans to women entrepreneurs. Guests will also enjoy complimentary baked goods as part of the celebration.
Date: Sunday, March 8
Location: Good Day Sauna at Lincoln Park (at the south end of the beach path)
Tickets: $40 per one‑hour session
Impact: $15 per ticket donated to support women‑owned small businesses in Uganda
Link to purchase: gooddaysauna.com/womens-day
(WSB photo, Tuesday)
When WSDOT closed two lanes of the northbound 1st Avenue South Bridge after an inspection revealed problems 2+ weeks ago, an update was promised by this Friday. Today, we have it – a repair plan starting with a three-day closure next Monday through Wednesday, and longer closures to come. Here’s the announcement from WSDOT:
The Washington State Department of Transportation will begin temporary repairs on the northbound State Route 99 First Avenue South bridge during a three-day closure of all northbound lanes from 5 a.m. Monday, March 9, through 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 11. Two lanes of the bridge were closed Feb. 18 after a bridge inspection identified cracks in the steel deck grates of the bridge in Seattle.
This repair effort is structured in three phases:
-Immediate stabilization and reopening of all northbound lanes
-Limited grate replacement in mid-to-late April
-Full northbound deck replacement in 2027The first phase of repairs must take place during daytime hours for both safety and efficiency. The temporary repair will allow all northbound lanes to reopen with a temporary speed limit reduction to 25 mph. The speed reduction will remain in place until the second phase of the repair is complete.
Phase 1: Stabilizing the bridge now (March 9-11)
During the March 9-11 full northbound closure, crews will modify existing grated panels and install steel plates over the cracked grates to restore safe vehicle access across all lanes. Welding and reinforcement work will strengthen the most affected sections of the bridge deck.
The temporary steel plating and reduced speed limit are intended to reduce stress on the deck and provide safe passage across the bridge until permanent grate replacements are installed.
This closure will occur immediately following a full weekend closure of northbound and southbound I-405 in Bothell on March 7-8. The sequencing reflects the urgency of the bridge repairs and the limited window available to complete the work before another full weekend closure of I-405 scheduled for March 13-16.
The bridge will remain operational for marine traffic but closed to vehicles during these repairs. Travelers will need to use alternate routes such as I-5 and I-405.
Phase 2: Replacing nine failing panels before summer (Starting mid-to-late April)
The next phase involves full replacement of nine steel grate panels inspectors deemed in the worst condition. Manufacturing these panels is underway and is expected to take approximately six weeks, with installation scheduled to begin as soon as they are delivered. This work will also require a full northbound closure of the First Avenue South bridge. This work is expected to start in mid-to-late April pending panel delivery and U.S. Coast Guard coordination.
WSDOT is executing an emergency contract and will work closely with the selected contractor to maximize efficiency while minimizing impact to travelers. An updated timeline will be shared in early April before work begins. WSDOT and the contractor will consider a series of full weekend closures as well as options for night work.
The goal is to complete the replacement of these nine panels before the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins in June, when hundreds of thousands of spectators will visit the greater Puget Sound region. Completing this work now ensures that SR 99 remains a viable route during a period when the transportation system will be in high demand.
Once this phase is complete, all northbound lanes will reopen at normal speeds.
Phase 3: Long term preservation work in development (2027)
Design is underway for a full replacement of the northbound bridge deck, with construction expected in 2027. This project will address broader needs and will require more substantial coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and regional partners. More information will be shared on this phase of the project in early 2027.
About the First Avenue South bridge
The First Avenue South bridge is a moveable, double-leaf bascule bridge spanning the Duwamish River. Like a drawbridge, its two sections lift from the center to allow marine traffic to pass. When closed, the two halves meet to carry vehicles, transit and freight.
Because the bridge both moves and carries heavy daily traffic, it includes mechanical systems and specialized steel deck components that require ongoing maintenance and inspection. Areas near the center of the span experience the greatest stress. During its last full inspection, the bridge was rated in fair condition.
The First Avenue South bridge is part of a statewide bridge system with infrastructure operating beyond its intended service life. WSDOT often extends the life of these bridges through targeted repairs while larger preservation projects are being developed. That approach allows structures to remain in service, but it also means that when conditions change, crews must act quickly and sometimes close lanes or structures in the interest of public safety. Each time WSDOT must take this action highlights the critical need for investment in the preservation of our transportation system. Governor Ferguson proposed a $2.1 billion investment in preservation including $1.1 billion for bridges.
The bridge served as the main detour route across the Duwamish River when the West Seattle Bridge – which is a city-owned structure – closed 2020-2022.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
A major sign of how things have changed for The Kenney in the past 10 years: Its five-acre landscaped campus is to be certified as an arboretum – the campus that was once to be sliced and diced for an ultimately disastrous redevelopment/expansion plan.
Eventually – in mid-2024 – West Seattle’s oldest senior-living complex went into receivership. It’s still there, but its management insists things have turned around big time.
Several readers have asked recently what’s up with The Kenney, with no followups here since our 2024 reports about new management followed by receivership. In advance of a community open house they’re planning next week, we went to The Kenney (7125 Fauntleroy Way SW) Tuesday morning to talk with executive director Brian Swope – who’s been there three years – and admissions/marketing director Cindy Serrano – who’s been there six weeks.
Both tenures are a blink compared to The Kenney’s long history, founded toward the start of the 20th century; that history recently brought in a letter from the Washington Secretary of State’s Office with congratulations on the founding corporation’s quasquicentennial – 125th year anniversary – one of only 22 corporations still in business in the state after that long.
There was a point a few years ago that the odds of The Kenney reaching that milestone appeared low. The number of residents was running low back then too – we noted 66 in a July 2024 report, and now, they told us, they’re approaching 90, which they say is 75 percent occupancy and “steady growth.”
SAK Healthcare is still the management company – one that was brought in as a specialist in rescuing “distressed” facilities – and still the court-appointed receiver. The Chicago-based firm handles other properties and that enables The Kenney to “capitalize on economies of scale,” among other things, Swope says.
The staff numbers 65 and one unique aspect of that, Swope notes, is that none of the roles are filled by agency-provided help. “Stabilizing our staff has been a challenge … in 2023, a third of the staff were agency staff.” That was changed by “aggressive recruiting,” he says. Back then, even the director of nursing was from an agency. That was the result, he said, of “disruption” on the watch of the East Coast organization that ran The Kenney for nine years before SAK, Heritage Ministries.
What we also have learned – though not until we looked up documents in the receivership case’s court files after our visit – is that The Kenney was put up for sale last year. The documents we read are quarterly reports from the receiver; last spring and summer’s reports mention that the firm Raymond James was engaged to market and sell the property, and the most recent report, filed for the last quarter of the year, says, “The receiver continues to market the facility and the property for sale to interested parties.”
But there’s no “for sale” sign out front and no mention that we could find online. Instead, there’s an A-board sign on the street offering “Tours Today,” and the managers tout longevity – beyond the facility’s century-plus history, they note it’s prevalent on the 65-person staff, saying some have been there 30 years. “A lot of longevity,” Serrano says.
“In the industry, it’s common to have (up to) 45 percent turnover rate – we have 10 percent,” Swope says.
“That speaks to the culture,” suggests Serrano.
Speaking of culture, they say they’ve continued amplifying what’s available for the residents, too.
With the future arboretum designation, they have residents building signage and posts in an on-site woodshop, and residents to be trained as docents. It will be open by appointment, and they’re hopeful that will include school field trips, as well as partnerships with programs like Landscape Horticulture at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor).
The Kenney also has a singing group that “goes to other communities too.” They offer transportation for residents to get to practical destinations like health care and shopping, and recreational destinations too.
Back to the basics. What about the physical condition of this four-building campus where some parts are more than a century old? The reports filed with the court did not reveal anything notable, and Swope said, “We fix things every single day” but “every part of the campus is occupied” and “fully functional.”
For almost nine years now, since they ceased offering skilled-nursing care, The Kenney has been a senior-living complex instead of a Continuing Care Retirement Community, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. “And we participate in hospice,” Swope adds. As a senior-living complex, he says, they no longer require “a significant entry fee,” just what Serrano describes as a “smaller community fee.” Their residents’ average age is in the 80s, they say, reflecting a general trend that people are moving into senior communities later in life.
All in all, the managers say growth is steady – the receiver reports in court files verify that – and things are continuing to improve. “We’ve come a long way,” Swope says, who adds that he came out of retirement for the job and wants to “see it through.”
“It’s a wonderful place that needed somebody on its side,” adds Serrano.
They repeat what we heard a year and a half ago – that The Kenney wants to be a more active part of the larger community again.
One way they’re doing that is by being home to a satellite location of Lake Washington Physical Therapy-West Seattle (WSB sponsor), with physical therapist Alison Read on-site not only for residents but also for community members. “Having in-house physical therapy is big,” Swope enthuses. (You can book an appointment here.)
OPEN HOUSE: The Kenney is welcoming visitors 2 pm-3:30 pm next Wednesday, March 11, not just to show off its campus, but also to offer education about senior living: “We’ll start at 2 pm with a simple 30-minute presentation that breaks down the different levels of senior living, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. The goal is to make the process easier to understand and less overwhelming. Afterward, we’ll offer a community overview, time for questions, and raffle prizes.” They promise “no pressure, just helpful information.”
FUTURE ARBORETUM: They’re expecting to be a stop on this year’s West Seattle Garden Tour (June 28).
(Early morning scene on Elliott Bay – photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
Today/tonight highlights, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, where you can look ahead days/weeks at a time:
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 10 am Wednesday walks start from 47th/Fontanelle (so if you didn’t see this in the calendar in time, here’s your reminder for next week).
TODDLER READING TIME AT PAPER BOAT: 10:30 am at the bookstore. (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor)
ALKI CO-OP PRESCHOOL DINE-OUT. BENEFIT: The Westy will donate part of its proceeds again today and tomorrow. (7908 35th SW)
PLAY AMERICAN MAH JONGG: 2-4 pm, play at the new location of Missing Piece (4707 California SW).”
VR FOR TEEN MENTAL HEALTH: 2:30 pm – drop in to co-design at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
GIRL SCOUT COOKIES: Find the times and locations for today’s cookie booths by going here!
ART WORKSHOP: Drop-in art for kids with Rec ‘N The Streets at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW), 3-4:30 pm.
DROP-IN HOMEWORK HELP: 4-7:30 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
HIGHLAND PARK WAY ONLINE MEETING: The most controversial SDOT project currently on the drawing board for West Seattle, the conversion of the outside downhill lane on Highland Park Way to a foot/bike lane, is the subject of an online community meeting at 5 pm. Our calendar listing has backstory and the link to join.
ROCK BAND GAMING AT MR. B’S MEAD CENTER: 5-10 pm, weekly event in South Delridge! (9444 Delridge Way SW)
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: Repair your broken item instead of throwing it out! 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).
CLASSIC SF BOOK CLUB: This month the club talks about “Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang” by Kate Wilhelm, 6 pm at Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor).
CRIBBAGE NIGHT: Come play at West Seattle Eagles (4426 California SW), 6 pm.
WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: Interested in our city’s growth, present and future? You’re invited to this 6 pm meetup at Great American Diner/Bar (4752 California SW).
KUNDALINI YOGA: Now at 6 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska). $35.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT RUN: Get moving at midweek – go on the weekly 6:15 pm group run with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) tonight – all welcome, all paces!
HUM-IN PROTEST: Protest via sound vibration, 6:30-7 pm Wednesdays at Junction Plaza Park (42nd SW and SW Alaska).
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)
COMMUNITY CHOIR OPEN REHEARSALS: Drop in and sing! 7 pm at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds).
MUSIC BINGO: Weekly music bingo at at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.
TRIVIA x 5: Five West Seattle trivia venues on tonight’s list, starting at Future Primitive Beach Bar (2536 Alki SW), 7 pm, free to play … 7 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW), free to play, cash prizes … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) has Wednesday trivia at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night starts at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … And trivia is on at 8:30 pm at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: You can take the stage during West Seattle’s longest-running open mic! 7:30 pm signups for the weekly event at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
KARAOKE AT ADMIRAL PUB: Sing at the pub starting at 8:45 pm, after trivia. (2306 California SW)
Planning something that’s open to community participation/observation? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
The first report was sent by Jason, who spotted it at the 35th/Avalon southbound bus stop and thought it was a potential candidate for the possibly-stolen-and-dumped file:
If you recognize it, that’s where to find it. Meantime, we also noted a “lost backpack” report on our Lost/Found (Non-Pets) board in the WSB Community Forums – that one is described as “neon pink,” likely left somewhere in The Junction, so if you found that one, Christi‘s son is looking for it.
6:55 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Wednesday, March 4, 2026; sorry we’re getting a late start today.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
More showers, possibly even thunderstorms, are in the forecast – high in the low 50s. Sunrise at 6:43 am; sunset at 5:59 pm. (Sunday, those times will change dramatically after we spring forward an hour!)
1ST AVENUE S. BRIDGE ALERT
Two lanes are still closed on the NB bside of this bridge, and the speed limit remains 25 mph. WSDOT has promised an update by Fridayl
TRANSIT TODAY
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular West Seattle service, winter schedule.
Washington State Ferries – Check WSF’s alert page for any changes to the 3-boat schedule.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule and routes.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view. Also note, maritime-opening info is available via X (ex-Twitter):
1st Avenue South Bridge (see the WSDOT alert above):
Delridge cameras: In addition to 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!
(Hiawatha Play Area, as seen when project first surfaced in 2019)
As reported here a month ago, the Hiawatha Play Area moving-and-renovating project has gone out to bid; now that the community center has reopened, the playground project is in the spotlight. Tomorrow (Wednesday, March 4) is the deadline for interested contractors to submit bids. The contract is estimated at $600,000 to $700,000, according to this brief description on the city’s bid site:
Project Description: This project relocates and replaces the play area at Hiawatha Playfield. Additives are Accessible Asphalt Paving, Site Furnishings, and Play Equipment; and Alternate is Synthetic Safety Surfacing and We-Go-Round.
Engineer’s Estimate: $574,916, Additive#1: $16,729, Additive#2: $15,700, Additive#3: $13,077, Alternate#4: $118,617.
Seattle Parks says it expects construction to start in “late summer/early fall.” The play area will move to a site south of the wading pool, as shown when the design was finalized five-plus years ago.
After our last reader-reported coyote visit, Amy in High Point sent that video of a coyote that “wandered up from the greenway … around 7:40 am.” As shown in the clip, it briefly stopped to make its mark on the spot, so to speak. Here’s a closer look:
As always, we note that we publish sightings for awareness, not alarm. Here’s an info-sheet about them, including (pages 4, 5, 6) how to prevent conflicts
(Photos courtesy HPIC)
In Saturday’s sunshine, during the Highland Park Improvement Club compost giveaway and plant/seed swap, folks got their first chance to browse the 70 planters donated to HPIC for an online fundraising auction that’s continuing right now. They’re all from one generous donor who was making some landscaping changes.
They’re unique and up for grabs to the highest bidders.
HPIC explains:
These are salvaged architectural quality pieces, most of vitrified stoneware type clay, there are some small dings from use, but their overall quality is excellent, and will be a great addition to any garden or deck. Planters range from midsized, suitable for seasonal accent planting, to large enough to be able to hold a small tree or shrub. Your purchase supports the rebuild and will be an excellent addition to your garden as well.
That of course is the rebuild of HPIC’s HQ, gutted by fire almost five years ago. To browse and bid, start here!
Thanks for the tip! A reader points out that this recent announcement of Seattle Public Schools All-Star “Beacon of Hope” awards includes a West Seattle Elementary staff member:
Maryan Khalif, Instructional Assistant – West Seattle Elementary
Maryan Khalif is an extraordinary instructional assistant whose presence strengthens every part of the West Seattle Elementary community. She consistently goes above and beyond her role, building deep, trusting relationships with students through compassion, patience, and a culturally responsive approach that ensures every child feels seen and valued.
Maryan’s ability to connect with students is evident in her day‑to‑day actions. She pays close attention to students’ emotional needs and often notices when a child needs extra care or encouragement before anyone else does.
A native Somali speaker, Maryan plays a vital role in bridging communication between the school and families. She frequently welcomes Somali‑speaking families in their primary language, helping them navigate school routines, building strong partnerships, and ensuring parents feel genuinely connected to their child’s learning.
“Each day is meaningful, and I value the positive relationships I have built with students, families, and colleagues. I believe in fostering positive vibes in the workplace, and that sense of respect, support, and collaboration is what makes my work truly fulfilling,” Maryan said.
Maryan is also known for stepping in wherever help is needed, even without being asked. Whether it’s assisting a teacher who suddenly needs coverage, supporting new students as they adjust to school routines, or noticing a logistical need and solving it on the spot, she brings initiative, reliability, and a truly team‑centered spirit. Her work ethic and genuine care make her an irreplaceable part of the school family.
See all the “Beacon of Hope” winners here.
(WSB photo, Monday)
Monday after a reader tip, we reported on a sweep at the state-owned lot in the 7100 block of West Marginal Way SW, west of – though not adjacent to – the future Glassyard Commons RV/tiny-house site. We asked WSDOT for more information and the first response we got was “routine maintenance.” Given the stack of items we photographed, the presence of State Patrol, and having glimpsed the encampment that was there previously, we suggested this didn’t look so “routine.” Spokesperson James Poling said he’d check further with the crew and subsequently told us today:
Our crews posted this site Thursday, February 26 because of suspected criminal activity, specifically stolen vehicles, in coordination with the Washington State Patrol. WSDOT crews coordinated with our WSP partners and secured the site Monday.
The site is a 13,000-square-foot paved lot buffered from the future Glassyard Commons by a parcel of city-owned land to the northeast and a privately owned site to the southeast. We are now following up with WSP to see if they can tell us how many stolen vehicles they found there.
ADDED WEDNESDAY: WSP spokesperson Trooper Rick Johnson replied to us: “There were no individuals present when we arrived to assist at this location. We removed 5 vehicles, one of which was confirmed stolen. There most likely will be others, and that is still under investigation, as the vehicles were stripped of identifying numbers.”
WSB reader Chris sent that phone photo, explaining, “Saw the bloody red moon on the beach in Vietnam … amazing.” Back here in West Seattle, we would have had live updates if not for the fact that, according to our designated eclipse spotter, the sky had fully clouded over by 2 am, though the moon had been in view just a few hours earlier; totality was supposed to be in the 3-4 am vicinity. Here’s the Space.com collection of views from elsewhere.
Today’s the first day you can sign up for Seattle Parks and Rec programs announced inn the spring brochures. Here’s the main brochure; here’s the brochure for Lifelong programs (focused on people 50+). This includes child care and sports programs.
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