West Seattle, Washington
29 Thursday
We first told you six months ago about Stu Hennessey‘s quest for a more “walkable Admiral” (District). He is a business owner in Admiral, proprietor of Alki Bike and Board, and walks the talk, not only on human-powered transportation, but also on other sustainability issues. Making Admiral more walkable would require some city changes, and Hennessey has launched a yard-sign campaign to get community support for them:
The QR code on the sign takes you to this page, which spells out the three proposals he introduced back in January:
Admiral and California All-Walk intersection. The biggest safety concern for pedestrians crossing the streets is the right turn on red. Is it wise to have cars and pedestrians using the same crossing?
Mid-block raised crossings between Lander and Admiral near the Safeway entrance at Menchie’s yogurt and between Admiral and College St. Specifically crossing to the Admiral Theatre. These crossings would eliminate one parking space and have a bulb out to the lane edge with flashing crossing signs.
Permanent closure for SW Lander St. between California Ave and 44th SW. This is an often-ignored one-way and daytime-temporarily-closed street that could be used for an emergency gathering point for Lafayette School, auto-free pickup of students, and a potential event space such as a farmers’ market.
The page also suggests emailing three city contacts – SDOT (684-road@seattle.gov), Councilmember Rob Saka (rob.saka@seattle.gov), and Economic Development director Markham McIntyre (markham.mcintyre@seattle.gov)- to voice your support for a more walkable Admiral. Hennessey has a few spare yard signs for Admiral businesses, and flyers for posting in windows – stop by his shop (2606 California SW) to ask about those.
6:43 PM: We’re at California Place Park, between a Metro stop and Admiral Church, where Michael Pearsall is playing as the first half of a double bill for the second Admiral Music in the Parks concert, presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association.
He’s a veteran musician, playing a self-accompanied set of originals. (He talked about his many years on the road with band Honor by August.) He’ll be followed by the Westside Pretenders. This free concert continues until about 8 pm – come join your neighbors at the park (and if you can, bring non-perishable food to donate).
7:36 PM: The Westside Pretenders have just started their set, opening with the classic “Midnight Rider.”
If you can’t come see this show, the AMP series has one more concert – next Thursday, August 1, 6:30 pm, with The ABBAgraphs, at Hamilton Viewpoint Park.
10:40 PM: Added photos and video.
(WSB file photo)
A long-awaited post-pandemic comeback is finally about to happen: Northwest Center is resuming regular Big Blue Truck visits to West Seattle for donation dropoffs, Here’s the announcement:
Big Blue Truck, a division of Seattle nonprofit Northwest Center, is excited to announce the opening of a new donation site in West Seattle. Beginning Saturday, August 3, 2024, community members can donate gently used clothing, textiles, and small household goods at WaFd, 4102 California Ave SW.
The donation site will be open every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
“We are thrilled to return to West Seattle! The Big Blue Truck was a popular donation site in the heart of West Seattle until Covid forced its closure in 2020. Now West Seattleites once again have a convenient weekend drop-off location just steps from the heart of Alaska Junction,” said Michael Scalzo, SVP of Operations at Big Blue Truck.
“We are passionate about collecting our community’s gently used clothing items to support children and adults with disabilities. We believe being back in West Seattle will have both a sustainable and mission-led impact on the community for generations to come. A big thank you to our partners WaFd, Value Village, and PrintItForward.net for being instrumental in our return to West Seattle!” said Tess Connor, Chief Growth & Operating Officer at Northwest Center.
Donations made to Big Blue Truck support Northwest Center’s education and employment programs for children and adults with disabilities. By donating, residents not only help children and adults with disabilities but also promote environmental sustainability through recycling and reusing goods.
Big Blue Truck welcomes donations of:
Gently used clothing
Shoes
Books
Textiles- including towels and sheets
Small household itemsFor more information about what to donate or the work Big Blue Truck supports, please visit our website at BigBlueTruck.org or email marketing@nwcenter.org Join us in making a difference in West Seattle – every donation counts!
2:54 PM: The two-boat Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth ferry route also is currently down to two terminals. WSF reports, “Southworth terminal operations are suspended due to a hydraulic leak on the transfer span. Both vessels will depart between Fauntleroy and Vashon every 30 minutes.” They’re both off-schedule, WSF says; we’d advise tracking their locations via the VesselWatch page, but it’s currently down too.
3:22 PM: Repairs are complete and the Southworth dock is back in service, WSF says.
ORIGINAL THURSDAY REPORT: Thanks for the tip! A major regional festival in its second year has just changed venues – and its new location is Lincoln Park. The event is The Cantanna Fest, with three music stages, food vendors, and a car show – plus cannabis-industry advocacy – scheduled for Saturday-Sunday, August 10-11. Reached via email, organizer Scott McKinley explained to WSB, “We had this event scheduled for Snohomish for the last year and just lost our venue and the switch to West Seattle is a last-minute one. This is a political rally/music festival centered around creating a 20-point bill of rights for Cannabis in the state and searching for a candidate to run for a Senate seat.” McKinley says he and co-founder Redman launched Cantanna Fest last year, when it was held in Renton, and says the highlights will include “Shawn Kemp is main-stage host, Donald Glaude as host of the EDM Forest, and Peter Dante is host of the Robert Lang Studios Stage celebrating 50 years of music.” The music lineups are on the festival website. Because this will be a “free-speech event in a city park,” admission will be free, but they’re selling “VIP access” tickets as an option. (And in case you’re wondering, given the cannabis-industry advocacy, the festival website has the caveat, “This IS NOT an open consumption event. It is open to the public and all ages are welcome to this community event.” They are planning adult-beverage areas for 21+, though.) We asked exactly where in the park the Cantanna Fest stages will be. While the locations and map aren’t finalized, they’re focusing on several areas of upper Lincoln Park accessible from the north lot. We’re still gathering other information, including hours.
FRIDAY 4:33 PM: We asked Parks about the process by which this was permitted at the relatively last minute. Spokesperson Christina Hirsch replied, “Seattle Parks and Recreation event scheduling permitted this on July 19. We have been in discussion with the event organizer about possibly relocating the event to a different location.”
Another garage burglary resulting in an e-bike theft. This one was reported by Julie:
This was stolen out of my garage on Alki on Sunday night. RadTrike electric tricycle, gray. (Stock photo) It was brand new. They used bolt cutters to cut the lock off. They don’t have the key to turn on the battery. It’s a long shot but I’d love to get it back. 24-935601 police report.
11:02 AM: Just texted by Kersti Muul: “There’s a humpback whale that’s been slowly making its way north this morning. It’s now getting close to the Fauntleroy Ferry Lanes. Close to shore.” Please let us know if you see it!
3:33 PM: Kersti also let us know about four orcas southbound in the Bainbridge ferry lanes about half an hour ago. An Orca Network commenter says they’re now off Blake Island and have flipped to head northbound.
(Art on Alki, photographed by Stewart L.)
Here’s our list of 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 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!
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 this 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 WADING POOL: This wading pool is open today, next to Delridge Community Center, noon-5:30 pm. (4501 Delridge Way SW)
HIAWATHA WADING POOL: And this pool is open today too, next to Hiawatha Community Center, noon-5:30 pm. (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 what’s now 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 it’s Vandalz.
VISCON CELLARS: 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.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM RECEPTION: 6-8 pm, visit the Log House Museum (61st/Stevens) for the closing reception celebrating its award-winning Longfellow Creek exhibition, as previewed 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.
ADMIRAL MUSIC IN THE PARKS: Second of this year’s three free outdoor concerts presented by the Admiral Neighborhood Association, 6:30 pm, California Place Park (California/Hill), featuring Michael Pearsall and Westside Pretenders. Bring your own chair/blanket, and bring a donation for the Admiral Church food drive if you can!
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 you can listen to the blues.
TRIVIA: 7 pm at Burger Planet (9614 14th 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!
Before we get to what’s happening for the rest of today/tonight, we’re previewing a weekend event whose organizeRs are sponsoring WSB this week to get the word out – Saturday’s Soulfest block party, back for another year!
Soulfest began on Capitol Hill in 1997 and has since evolved into a unique music festival that celebrates talented artists, soulful tunes, and an electrifying atmosphere. Join us on July 27th, 2024, in the heart of West Seattle for an unforgettable experience filled with live music, delicious food, and great vibes.
Featured Artists
Aurora Avenue Band
A Seattle-based Indie-pop rock band formed in 2020. Known for their catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and J-pop influences, Aurora Avenue is set to bring an energetic performance.Harmonious Funk
This 7-piece band from Seattle blends classic funk, soul, and R&B. With over 10 years of experience, they have performed all over the Pacific Northwest, delivering groovy tunes that get everyone dancing.DJ Kipprawk
Seattle’s own DJ Kipprawk will take over the turntables. With over 25 years of experience, DJ Kipprawk is known for his eclectic mix of music and his ability to get the crowd moving. Expect an exciting ’90s Dance & Singalong session!DJ Derek Moon
Owner of Revelry Room, Derek’s blend of talents and knowledge brings a unique energy to any event. He loves West Seattle, and Revelry represents the achievement of a long-held goal. Get ready for a fantastic set that showcases his passion for music and community.On the Menu
Get ready for a mouthwatering culinary experience crafted by our friends and family. Indulge in Southern favorites like:
● BBQ Pork Shoulder
● Joe’s Fried Chicken
● Mac n Cheese
● Hotlinks
● Cornbread
● Tater Tots
● The original Seattle Dogs from Hotdogjoe’sGet ready to savor the best party food ever!
Gates open at 4 pm in the 6300 block of 46th SW; food starts at 4:30. The full schedule is in our calendar listing. Tickets are available at soulfestblockparty.com.
6:01 AM: Good morning! It’s Thursday, July 25.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES
Becoming sunny, high in the low 70s. Today’s sunrise was at 5:39 am, while sunset will be at 8:52 pm.
(Tuesday sunset, photographed by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
TRANSIT NOTES, WITH METRO FLEX
Metro Flex – Fourth day for this on-demand service in Delridge, starting a two-year pilot. Here’s how it works.
Metro buses – Regular schedules; check for advisories here.
Water Taxi today – Regular schedule. Check the real-time map if you need to see where the boat is.
Washington State Ferries today – 2 boats on the Triangle Route, and the unscheduled third boat may be available. Check that link before you sail.
ROAD WORK
*The Spokane Street Viaduct resurfacing project is about to start, first with overnight lane closures, then with several all-weekend one-direction closures. Here’s the announcement.
*The Admiral Way Bridge seismic project is in progress. Fairmount Avenue is closed under the bridge for the duration of the project, likely into early 2025.
*SDOT’s 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.
SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS (West Seattle Bridge cameras are back but some others remain out)
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera:
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!
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
One notable achievement of Tuesday night’s Transit Town Hall: A few of the local business owners facing likely relocation because of light rail got a very public chance to put Sound Transit reps on the spot.
That happened during the live Q&A comprising almost half the two-hour event. As shown in our first report Tuesday night, the event – presented by the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce and 34th District Democrats – began with an ST recap of project planning, from 2016’s ST3 vote to the current status, awaiting the Final Environmental Impact Statement “in the late third quarter,” which will be followed by a final vote on routing/station locations.
Then it was time for Q&A – both pre-submitted and asked live. We’ll start with the latter. First, video of the in-person Q&A:
The most pointed exchanges were with business owners facing relocation, including Erin Rubin of Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor) and nonprofit Mode Music and Performing Arts, which serve hundreds of students.
(WSB photo: Mode’s Erin Rubin, with moderator Jordan Crawley)
Rubin recounted waiting for a promised reply from ST real-property director Faith Roland – one of the panelists – that never came, and made a request that she’s made to ST before: Why can’t she get an evaluation from ST now rather than having to wait for the official vote on the Delridge station location that will almost certainly displace her business? Starting the resource-providing conversation now, she said, would “make us feel more secure.”
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