day : 17/10/2019 11 results

READY! Great Shakeout earthquake drill at Explorer West Middle School

| Comments Off on READY! Great Shakeout earthquake drill at Explorer West Middle School

| Preparedness | West Seattle news | West Seattle schools

(WSB photos)

Students at Explorer West Middle School (WSB sponsor) ended their day today with a lesson in preparedness.

Rain didn’t get in the way of their participation in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill.

The drill was more about testing their plan for what the school would do after a quake than what to do during one. That includes assessing and treating injuries, with role-playing during the drill.

Parents had a role too – picking up students at day’s end, they had to sign them out the same way it would work during an actual emergency.

P.S. If you’re looking ahead to middle school next year, Explorer West has an open house coming up next week – 6:30 pm Tuesday (October 22nd).

Share This

YOU CAN HELP: Enjoy the Fauntleroy Fall Festival in a new way!

| Comments Off on YOU CAN HELP: Enjoy the Fauntleroy Fall Festival in a new way!

| Fauntleroy | How to help | West Seattle news

(WSB file photo)
Just a week and a half until two big festivals – and one could use your assistance! The announcement:

The Fauntleroy Fall Festival is fast approaching and more volunteers are essential to make it happen on Sunday, October 27, 2-5 pm in the Fauntleroy Church/YMCA/Schoolhouse triangle. Available assignments include managing lines, helping kids paint pumpkins and build birdhouses, and checking in volunteers. Enjoy the festival from a new perspective! Find an assignment and time that work for you at tinyurl.com/2019FallFestivalVolunteers.

Share This

AVALON/35TH PROJECT: ‘Final striping’ and what else is ahead

| Transportation | West Seattle news

The weekly SDOT update on the Avalon/35th repaving-and-more project is in. Here’s what’s ahead:

As you know, fall in Seattle can be very wet! Our work is weather dependent and often requires the road to be dry to allow pavement and paint to set. With the rain in our upcoming forecast, our crews will be working flexibly to get work done whenever a dry weather window allows. The schedule we provide today may change based on the weather and we will be sure to provide updates if any impacts change.

Pedestrian detours at 35th Ave SW and SW Avalon Way

Crews are currently working on the SW corner of SW Avalon Way and 35th Ave SW. The following pedestrian detour is in place to go from SW Avalon Way to 35th Ave SW:

*Walk east on SW Avalon Way and cross to the other side of the street at SW Genesee St

*Walk west on the north side of SW Avalon Way and cross 35th Ave SW

*Go south to cross SW Avalon Way and cross to the eastern side of 35th Ave SW at SW Alaska St

Final Striping and new design for SW Avalon Way:

In the coming weeks, crews will begin placing final striping in Zones A – C (SW Avalon Way from SW Spokane St to about 200 feet east of 35th Ave SW). This final striping will reflect our final design, which was developed after months of outreach and community engagement before construction with the purpose of creating a safer, multimodal corridor along SW Avalon Way.

Expect to see striping on the road for:

*New protected bike lanes northbound and southbound on SW Avalon Way.

*Flex posts likely will be installed in the spring when we finalize our project due to temperatures needed for installation

*Peak bus-only travel lane for northbound buses

*Narrowing of travel lanes and removal of the center turn lane to encourage slower, safer speeds and easier crossings

For more information on the final design, see our final design plans and graphics on our website.

Information by Zone:

Zones A – C (SW Avalon Way from SW Spokane St to 35th Ave SW)

*No Parking signs are up in Zones A – C to prepare to place final striping on the roadway. No Parking signs are effective starting Monday, October 21.

*These signs may be out for a few weeks, to allow surveyors to prepare for striping and give our crews flexibility to take advantage of dry weather to complete work; please pay attention to dates on the no parking signs for the latest information

*There will be short term single-lane closures to allow for striping

Zone C and Zone D (SW Avalon Way from Fauntleroy Way SW to just east of 35th Ave SW)

Crews are excavating and completing concrete paving on the south side of SW Avalon Way in part of Zone C and Zone D. Please note:

*Crews will continue pouring concrete curbs and panels on SW Avalon Way southeast and southwest corners of 35th Ave SW

*Starting Monday, October 21, people driving will have to turn right in and right out of driveways surrounding the intersection of SW Avalon Way and 35th Ave SW as crews work in the center lane

*Pedestrian detours are in place, please follow the posted signs on the sidewalks

Zone E (35th Ave SW from SW Avalon Way to SW Alaska St)

*Crews have begun demolition on the east half of 35th Ave SW and will continue this week

*Crews may begin pouring concrete panels on the east half of 35th Ave SW as early as the week of October 21 and will continue into November

*Access to the West Seattle Stadium and golf course will remain open during construction

Left turn pockets on 35th Ave SW and SW Alaska St may be temporarily disrupted as crews load out materials from excavation on the east side of 35th Ave SW.

Please be patient and be considerate of local neighbors and avoid cutting through our work zone. Speeding through residential streets is dangerous for everyone.

SDOT also addressed the question “What happened to the mid-block crossing on SW Avalon Way by 35th Ave SW?”

Due to limited visibility of this particular mid-block crossing, we have removed it from the corridor. We try to offer mid-block crossings when it is safe and feasible but have found that this particular crossing was not safe for people walking. To access the northbound bus stop, please walk on the north side of SW Avalon Way towards SW Genesee St and cross at SW Genesee St to walk to the relocated bus stop.

Share This

BUDGET: West Seattle SDOT projects up for discussion Friday as council spending scrutiny continues

| Transportation | West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

The City Council is now in its second level of budget review, taking a closer look department-by-department and discussing potential changes to what the mayor proposed. Tomorrow, SDOT is in the spotlight when councilmembers meet as the Select Budget Committee at 9:30 am at City Hall. The 15-page staff memo (PDF) for the meeting lists big issues as well as potential changes large and small:

Among the 15 potential changes proposed by councilmembers so far, here are the ones of particular West Seattle interest:

#4 – Direct funding from the Mercer Megablock property sale to support South Seattle bicycle infrastructure (Councilmember O’Brien) – This action would specify that the Vision Zero spending related to the Mercer Megablock property proceeds would be used to implement South Seattle bicycle infrastructure projects (amount to be determined) as previously directed by Council in Resolution 31894.

West Seattle relevance: Right now, the mayor’s budget would put $3.5 million of “Vision Zero spending related to the Mercer Megablock property proceeds” toward the Highland Park Way/Holden safety project. So that could be at risk.

Also:

#7 – Add funding and establish a CIP project for the Duwamish Longhouse Safe Street and Accessibility Project (Councilmember Herbold) – This action would establish a new CIP project and add funding (amount to be determined) for pedestrian safety improvements at West Marginal Way. The project would include a pedestrian-activated traffic signal and marked crosswalk, sidewalk pavement on the west side of West Marginal Way, ADA accessible crossing of railroad track to the Duwamish Trail, and ADA accessible connection to the Duwamish Tribe’s Herring’s House parking lot. SDOT estimates this project will cost $3.25 million: $250,000 for planning, $500,000 for design, and $2.5 million for construction.

And:

#9 – Proviso spending on the Delridge Way SW – RapidRide H Line (Councilmember Herbold) – This action would establish a proviso to limit spending on the Delridge Way SW – RapidRide H Line project to design activities until authorized by future Council action. During a presentation to the March 5, 2019 Sustainability and Transportation Committee, SDOT indicated that final design for this project would be complete by Fall 2019 which would have allowed time for Council’s review in consideration of the 2020 Proposed Budget.

That’s basically an accountability measure, continuing a watch on the project to require council briefings along the way.

Also of interest:

#13 – Add $1 million to continue the Waterfront Shuttle service through 2020 (Councilmember Bagshaw) – This action would add $1 million to continue operations of the Waterfront Shuttle. The Waterfront Shuttle was funded by WSDOT in July 2018 as a mitigation for the Alaskan Way Viaduct removal. The free service runs approximately every 20 minutes, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week. The service connects Seattle Center to Pioneer Square and the Chinatown/International District via Alaskan Way, with an additional loop through Downtown Seattle from Pier 55 to the Central Library, Westlake Park, and Pike Place Market. WSDOT funding is scheduled to end in October 2019. This action would direct SDOT to take over funding responsibilities for the service through the end of 2020.

West Seattle relevance – This service has gained some traction with West Seattle Water Taxi riders connecting to it after arriving downtown. (In fact, a “save the shuttle” campaign has been advertising on WSB.)

If you have strong opinions about any of the above, this is a good time to let the council know, as much is in flux. council@seattle.gov is one easy way. Tomorrow’s agenda also includes a public-comment period. And the second big all-budget public hearing is at City Hall next Tuesday night (October 22), 5:30 pm.

SIDE NOTE: Though he doesn’t have final say on the budget, SDOT director Sam Zimbabwe will be at next Wednesday’s HPAC meeting (7 pm at Highland Park Improvement Club, 1116 SW Holden) to talk about the Highland Park Way/Holden plan.

Share This

ELECTION 2019: Ballots begin arriving

October 17, 2019 2:54 pm

| 16 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

Ballots, mailed Wednesday by King County Elections, started arriving today – the photo shows the two delivered by our postal-mail carrier. You can vote as soon as you get yours; once you do, you have two options for turning it in:

BALLOT DROP BOXES: They’re now open for dropoffs until 8 pm November 5th. We photographed that one outside the South Park Library while touring SP with the mayor Tuesday. It may be the closest one (8604 8th Ave. S.) if you’re in southeastern West Seattle. Others in our area: The Junction (south side of SW Alaska just west of California, with two reserved parking spots next to it), High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), and White Center Library (1409 SW 107th). Here’s the full countywide list. (The county says they’re emptied at least once a day.)

POSTAL MAIL: No stamp needed. To ensure your ballot is postmarked by November 5th, don’t wait until the deadline!

Once you’ve turned yours in:

TRACKING YOUR BALLOT: You can do that here.

If you need assistance voting:

ACCESSIBLE VOTING: Online ballot-marking and in-person vote centers are two options, explained here.

P.S. Reminder of two more debates in the marquee race, City Council District 1 – 6 pm tonight in Arbor Heights and 11 am Saturday in The Junction

Share This

YOU’RE INVITED: Celebrating Seal Sitters’ founders

October 17, 2019 12:59 pm

| 4 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle people

Busy week for Seal Sitters Marine Mammal Stranding Network, as we’ve been reporting. All the while, volunteers have been planning an event to honor the two women who founded the nonprofit more than a decade ago, and you’re invited:

In early August of 2007, an extraordinary and quite unexpected harbor seal baby boom hit Alki Beach and the shores of West Seattle. In the ensuing scramble to protect these vulnerable pups, writer Brenda Peterson and photographer Robin Lindsey came together as strangers, forging an enduring alliance and a grass-roots group of concerned West Seattle residents that would become the full-fledged and high-profile Marine Mammal Stranding Network, Seal Sitters.

Seal Sitters invites you to a special celebration with our founders. Hear Robin and Brenda share their many stories in a lively setting – with an opportunity to ask any and all questions about their experiences and Seal Sitters’ history.

Robin will be stepping back from her full-time Seal Sitters role. After 13 years with Seal Sitters, she would love the opportunity to show her appreciation to colleagues, volunteers, and members of the public who have shared not only their common passion to protect wildlife, but treasured friendship as well.

SEAL SITTERS FOUNDERS EVENT
Sunday, November 3, 2:00-5:00 pm
The Hall at Fauntleroy
9131 California Ave SW

PROGRAM
2:00 PM Doors open for a reception with refreshments and no-host bar
3:00 PM “A Conversation with Robin and Brenda”
Learn about the history of Seal Sitters in a moderated, animated chat.
Audience Q&A to follow.
The celebration continues until 5:00 PM.

THE EVENT IS FREE, BUT YOU MUST RSVP BY NOVEMBER 1 TO ATTEND.
Space is limited and registration may close earlier if capacity is reached.
RSVP here and include your name and the name of any guest attending with you. If the guest is not an adult, include his or her age.

Though that deadline is still two weeks away, the sooner you can RSVP the better, as organizers are hoping to get a tentative crowd count ASAP. And in case you are wondering, this is NOT a fundraiser – just a party!

Share This

WEST SEATTLE SCHOOLS: Highland Park Elementary students defy the weather for Move-a-thon fundraising

October 17, 2019 11:56 am

| 1 COMMENT

| Highland Park | How to help | West Seattle news

Rain? What rain? Highland Park Elementary students have spent the morning taking turns walking/running laps in the annual Move-a-Thon, which continues until 12:50 pm.

Want to donate? Here’s the HPE PTA PayPal link.

Share This

Another City Council debate, online safety for families, and what else is up for your West Seattle Thursday

October 17, 2019 10:57 am

| 2 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Surf Scoters, photographed by Mark Wangerin)

Here’s what’s up for the hours ahead:

HIGHLAND PARK ELEMENTARY MOVE-A-THON: Rain or shine, the HPE students are on the move until noon. (1012 SW Trenton)

SSC CAMPUS TOUR: 2 pm at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) on Puget Ridge – come tour the campus! Sign up here. (6000 16th SW)

DISTRICT 1 CANDIDATES’ DEBATE: Second of three this week. This one is at Westside School (WSB sponsor) in Arbor Heights, presented by the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce, 6 pm. (10404 34th SW)

TIMEBANK GATHERING, WITH PUMPKIN DECORATING: 6:30 pm at Senior Center of West Seattle – details in our calendar listing. (4217 SW Oregon)

FAMILY SAFETY ONLINE: What you need to know, in a free presentation at Seattle Lutheran High School, all welcome. (4100 SW Genesee)

ALKI COMMUNITY COUNCIL: Open board meeting, no agenda so bring your concern(s), 7 pm at Alki UCC. (6115 SW Spokane)

AT PARLIAMENT TAVERN: Sulphur, PAK, K.O. Solo at 9 pm, $10 cover, 21+. (4210 SW Admiral Way)

AND MORE … see it all on our complete calendar.

Share This

WEST SEATTLE CRIME WATCH: School-district work truck stolen

October 17, 2019 10:03 am

| 3 COMMENTS

| Crime | West Seattle news | Westwood

If you happen to see a pickup truck with a Seattle Public Schools logo – take a closer look, because it might be the truck Derek has reported as stolen:

On the morning of 10-17-2019 between 4-7 AM, my work truck was stolen from the field of the Southwest Athletic Complex. The truck is a white late 1990s to early 2000s Chevy two-door with a Seattle School district logo and #319 on the back; the windshield is also smashed and the license plate number is 56489C.

Thanks all for your help in returning our work truck.

As always, police advise calling 911 ASAP if you find/see a stolen vehicle.

Share This

RECYCLING CHANGE: No more plastic bags/film in your curbside bin

October 17, 2019 9:26 am

| 60 COMMENTS

| Environment | Utilities | West Seattle news

Just announced: A change in what you can put in curbside recycling bins: Plastic bags and film are out as of the start of next year. Here’s the announcement:

Changes are coming next year to how materials are collected for recycling in Seattle and King County.

Beginning Jan. 1, garbage and recycling collection programs will no longer accept plastic bags and plastic wrap in curbside recycling carts and bins. Instead, customers will be asked to take those separated materials to a drop-off location for remanufacturing or place them in the garbage for disposal.

Plastic bags and wrap are often wet or have food waste on them when placed in the curbside recycling and contaminate other materials. Additionally, at recycling facilities, these plastics can jam sorting and processing equipment, leading to frequent shutdowns so workers can remove the tangled materials.

Bringing plastic bags and wrap to a drop-off location keeps the bundled recyclables cleaner and easier to manufacture into new products.

“Recycling is one of the best ways to protect the environment and fight climate change, but to make it work we have to do it right,” said King County Solid Waste Division Director Pat McLaughlin. “Keeping problem items out of our bins at home will save money because we won’t have to throw out good recyclable materials that get contaminated from dirty plastic bags.”

“Our goal is to ensure what goes into the recycling cart gets recycled at its highest value. We want everyone to Recycle Right,” noted Jeff Fowler, Seattle Public Utilities Solid Waste Deputy Director. “Removing plastic bags and wrap from our curbside recycling mix will have a positive impact on the quality of our other recyclable materials and the efficiency of the facilities that process those materials.”

The changes were recommended by a task force of city, county and solid waste industry representatives that was established to research improvements that could be made to the recycling system following China’s change in allowable levels of contamination in bundled recyclables.

Find plastic bag and wrap drop-off locations at plasticfilmrecycling.org. King County and Seattle Public Utilities are working to expand drop-off locations that accept plastic bags and plastic wrap for recycling.

While throwing plastic bags and wrap in the garbage is the least desirable action, it’s better to toss them out rather than contaminate other recyclables.

The lookup shows dropoff spots in this area include the Admiral and Roxbury Safeways and Westwood Village Target. P.S. For a refresher course on “recycling right” – covering other items too – go here.

Share This