West Seattle, Washington
30 Saturday
Susanna‘s hoping her stolen car might be spotted abandoned in a local neighborhood:
Our 2012 red Hyundai Elantra was stolen from the front of our house in North Admiral last night/early morning after midnight. We’ve reported it and have a police case number … License plate is CWG2636.
Hoping that maybe one of our West Seattle neighbors might see the car left someplace. It was locked, but just want to alert folks about the theft. This was on Walnut Ave in North Admiral neighborhood.
Call 911 if you find it.
Sunshine hit full strength just in time for the Gatewood Elementary Gator Fair, now starting its second of four hours on the playground and field on the west side of the campus at 4320 SW Myrtle. This is the fourth year for the carnival-style festival presented by the Gatewood PTA and volunteers. Lots of game booths, including Chuck A Duck:
The national #1 West Seattle Rhodies FC is there too with a chance to kick a goal:
All over the playground, lots of sights and sounds as well as games.
Lots going on – performances, cupcake walks … Everything’s free except the food and treat trucks/carts in the northwest corner, including Taco Corte and Seattle Pops:
It’s not free to produce, though, and you have ample opportunities to donate to the PTA to help out – “there are QR codes EVERYWHERE!” as the announcement said. One unique tactic, we learned: The prizes are all “recycled toys” – the PTA saves the up all year – “dentist toys, McDonald’s toys,” etc. – “the kids love it (and) we don’t buy anything!”
While you’re there, don’t miss the Urban Survival Skills Fair, a lot more fun than the name might found. It includes the stuff that really matters – like, how do you go to the bathroom if the plumbing’s not working after a disaster?
And how do you make sure you can find your pets? Maple Bar the Golden Retriever is at that table:
Always carry a photo, and treats, were two hints. Then there’s the display about what to do during an earthquake:
All this – the carnival and survival-skills fair – continues until 2:30 pm today!
Jeff sent this video recorded in Brace Point early today:
Package theft, 9000 block of 46th Ave SW: Package dropped off at 4:00 am, taken at 5:00 am. Clear side view of vehicle and good shot of perpetrator, but no license plate visible. Watch those packages, Brace Point!
(State ferry and cruise ship Celebrity Edge – Bob Burns photo from Friday)
Welcome to the weekend! Here are our highlighted happenings for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
RUN WITH WEST SEATTLE RUNNER: Meet up at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) by 8 am for today’s free group run.
FAMILY WANDERERS WALKING EVENT: Not a group walk, but a walking club has organized it – start between 9 and 11 am from their table at Riverview Playfield (7300 12th SW).
FREE MEDITATION: For a calming start to your Saturday, check out Heavily Meditated, 9 am free meditation at Inner Alchemy Studio/Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska).
INTRODUCTORY WALK and WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: 9:30 am, walk a mile before the 10 am well-being walk (or just show up for that one). Both start from 47th SW and Fontanelle.
DELRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET: New season, new location! 10 am-2 pm, shop for produce, prepared food and beverages, artisan body care, more. (9th/Henderson)
GARDENING WITH LESS WATER AND LESS WORK: “Designing your own water-smart permaculture paradise with Jessi Bloom” class at West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW; WSB sponsor), 10 am.
WALKING TOUR OF SCHMITZ PRESERVE PARK: 10 am; meet at 5463 SW Stevens for guided tour with Schmitz Park Restore.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: The home of West Seattle’s history is open, with expanded Saturday hours 10 am-4 pm (61st SW and SW Stevens) last chance to visit before a month-long closure.
SSC GARDEN CENTER: 10 am-3 pm, open today! New plants in! North end of campus at South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor)
MASTER GARDENERS AT DELRIDGE HOME DEPOT: Saturdays, 10 am-2 pm – take them your toughest garden questions and get free expert answers! (Delridge/Orchard)
SINGALONG BRUNCH: 10 am weekends at Admiral Pub, sing to classics – table reservation includes a brunch buffet! (2306 California SW)
GATEWOOD GATOR FAIR: Lots of all-ages fun at Gatewood Elementary (4320 SW Myrtle), with entertainment, food, a fire truck expected at 11 am, a science fair, and an Urban Survival Skills Fair with local prepaedness advocates – all happening 10:30 am-2:30 pm. All welcome!
MORNING MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Marco de Carvalho and Friends perform. Info about Marco’s music is here.
FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am today – free, weekly, in-person, critique-free group – details including location are in our calendar listing.
MAKERS ART MARKET AT ALKI: 11 am-5 pm, next to the bathhouse, more than 30 local makers are selling their creations. (2701 Alki SW)
SPRAYPARK SEASON: Second week of the season begins at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
FAMILY READING TIME: Every Saturday at Paper Boat Booksellers, 11 am family reading time. (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor)
COLMAN POOL’S FOURTH WEEKEND: Noon-7 pm, fourth preseason weekend begins at the outdoor pool on the shore at Lincoln Park. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: Community visitors welcome noon-3 pm at the West Seattle Vietnamese Cultural Center (2236 SW Orchard).
MORBIDLY CURIOUS BOOK CLUB: 1 pm at West Seattle (Admiral) Library (2306 42nd SW), discussing “Expert Witness” this month.
VISCON CELLARS TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: Tasting room open, with wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM, WINE BAR, STORE: Open 1-6 pm on north end of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor) campus:
The Northwest Wine Academy Tasting Room and Wine Bar offers student-produced wines, tasting flights, and casual food pairings while supporting hands-on winemaking and hospitality education. Each tasting and purchase directly contributes to student production, education, and training opportunities.
‘A KID’S LIFE’ SCHOOL MUSICAL: 2 pm performance of The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary (WSB sponsor) production of “A Kid’s Life” at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW). Details in our calendar listing.
THE BEER JUNCTION’S MONTHLY BIKE RIDE: 2 pm departure from the lot behind The Beer Junction (4511 California SW), 21+, must have helmet to ride.
FREE MASSAGE: 3-5 pm walk-in at Nepenthe (9447 35th SW) for “short, specific sessions.”
‘YOUR VOICE, OUR FUTURE’: The 34th District Democrats‘ annual fundraiser, this year at the White Center HUB (8th SW/SW 108th), 5:30 pm cocktail hour, 6:30-8:30 pm event.
MUSIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 6-8 pm, Phil and Friends play at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).
‘FEMININE RAGE’: A night of women-led live music plus axe-throwing, community support, flash tattooing, clothing donations, 6 pm-midnight at Axe Throwers Seattle (10849 1st Avenue S., Top Hat).
LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: 7 pm, hear Modest Mouse‘s new music, at Easy Street Records, free, all ages (4559 California SW).
DRAG AT THE SKYLARK: 8 pm, “Hey Baby” drag show focusing on new performers, hosted by Kimme Kash. All ages, $15/door. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
REVELRY ROOM SPINNING: 9 pm, DJ Topspin spins. (4547 California SW)
SATURDAY NIGHT SKATING: 9 pm to midnight, skate at Southgate Roller Rink (9676 17th SW), with rotating DJs spinning old-school funk & hip-hop, $18 plus $5 skate rental.
KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: Close out your Saturday night with Rone at 10 pm at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)
If you’re planning a West Seattle event, and it’s open to the community, tell us about it; calendar listings are free of charge, always! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Getting hyped for world-class summer soccer yet? Easy Street Records proprietor Matt Vaughan sent word tonight of his biz’s collaboration with fellow Junction biz Mystery Made, creating gear to put a West Seattle spin on things:
The world is rolling into Seattle this summer, and West Seattle is ready. Soccer or futball, depending on who you ask, is taking over the city; rep the W. Seattle neighborhood with pride. Welcome the masses with us.
Another collaboration in community by these two small businesses.
Authentic Pro Soccer jersey comes with a hand-signed certificate of authenticity, a premium double-sided loyalty team soccer scarf, and a custom enamel collector’s pin set. Built right, designed by us and for the West Seattle Hardcore !
Here’s where to order.
Looking ahead to what’s on the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar this weekend, here’s a unique event: Axe-throwing, live bands, and a clothing-donation drive, all in one place. That place is Axe Kickers Seattle, in Top Hat south of West Seattle and just east of White Center, 10843 1st Avenue South. The night is titled “Feminine Rage,” described by the venue as “a full night of live music, axe throwing, tattoo flash, special guests, and community support — all benefiting organizations that support women and survivors.”
The full music lineup is in our calendar listing; getting in will cost you $30, throwing included. Bring donations of “clean/new professional clothing” to support Dress for Success Seattle.
This past Tuesday, in our report on the Washington State Ferries online community meeting, we noted the mention of WSF’s 75th anniversary celebration throughout June. They’ve since announced times and dates for specific events, and one will happen on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth route, with DJs from dance-music radio station C89.5:
KNHC-FM C89.5 Public Radio will host live DJ sets on four ferries throughout June, bringing music to the sun decks and giving riders another way to celebrate. Dates include:
Friday, June 12, on the following Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route sailings: 3:30 p.m. out of Fauntleroy, 3:55 p.m. out of Vashon, 4:15 p.m. out of Southworth and 4:40 p.m. out of Vashon.
These systemwide plans will include Triangle Route ferries too:
June 1 anniversary events
To kick off the celebration on anniversary day, WSF will raise a custom anniversary flag on top of the Space Needle. Ferries in service also will fly special 75th anniversary flags throughout June.
Starting June 1, riders can receive anniversary giveaways, including stickers. These items will be available as long as supplies last.
WSF’s food service vendor Sodexo Live!, which operates the onboard galleys, will offer a free small popcorn or coffee with any purchase on June 1 only.
Here’s the full announcement of WSF anniversary events. June 1, 1951, was the day Washington State Ferries began operations, after taking over what had been Puget Sound Navigation Company.
Highland Park Elementary principal Mary McDaniel says she doesn’t like surprises – but she admitted the one she got this afternoon is “great.” During a day-ending HPE assembly, the nonprofit Alliance for Education‘s president Roxanne Christian and a Seattle Public Schools delegation led by superintendent Ben Shuldiner appeared unannounced to present McDaniel with the Thomas B. Foster Award, given to two SPS principals each year. It came with a $25,000 grant for the principal and her school.
In a post-assembly interview with Edgar Riebe of SPS TV, the principal said her Building Leadership Team would decide how to spend the grant money, though she could easily imagine numerous possibilities, including filling gaps in staffing and services for her students. She’s been at HPE for five years and said she makes it a point to know each student’s name, and to be outside the school greeting them on arrival every morning.
Their love for her was evident too – the students had signs and chants for her before the assembly ended.
P.S. West Seattle recipients of the Foster Award in the past 15 years have included now-retired West Seattle Elementary principal Pam McCowan-Conyers in 2023, then-Alki Elementary principal Dr. Rena Deese in 2018, and then-Denny IMS principal Jeff Clark in 2011.
Pamela thinks the driver who hit her car on the West Seattle Bridge on Thursday morning might have wanted to do the right thing but couldn’t pull over. So she’s trying to find them. The driver hit her from behind while trying to change lanes just before 8 am Thursday: “I saw you rolled down your window but then kept going. Tough spot to stop. Hoping for your honesty. Thank you.” This photo suggests the car was a newer dark gray or black Toyota RAV4 with a Washington plate including the letters YV. Her car, if it helps jog a memory, is a 2011 Lexus GX460, black, with a Canadian sticker on the back. She’s filed a collision report with the State Patrol, M4785868. So if you’re the driver, you can refer to that, or contact us and we’ll forward you to Pamela.
Story and photos by Torin Record-Sand
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
More than a week after the originally planned end of Seattle Public Schools superintendent Ben Shuldiner‘s “community engagement” tour, he met with members of the South Park community Wednesday night.
The closest his tour had come to South Park previously was his West Seattle Elementary stop in early April (WSB coverage here). Local advocates led by the Duwamish River Community Coalition worked to bring him to South Park to listen to the community’s concerns; it’s home to only one SPS school, Concord International Elementary.
The latter fact was on many minds during Wednesday night’s meeting held at the recently reopened South Park Community Center. Lacking either a middle or high school, many families are left to commute to schools such as Denny International Middle School and Chief Sealth International High School in West Seattle.
Some also seek out elementary options there, and that was one of the most crucial points of the night in community comments. Many educators and parents from South Park came to voice their despair at what they saw at Concord International as signs of a potentially terminal decline, driving community members away from the school.
“Concord is an ICU right now.” said Angie, a resource teacher at Concord. “I’ve seen four or five principals work there, and this is the worst I’ve ever seen it, and the worst I’ve seen it for teachers’ morale. […] Concord is in critical condition, and something needs to be done ”
The overall consensus of many community members who commented was that Concord represented the worst of the district: a school which suffered from a long history of racial and economic discrimination that had created an almost unbearable environment for students.
“Last year, when I went to my son’s class it was like a zoo – the teacher wasn’t teaching, the kids weren’t learning. You would never hear about their grades, or anything like that – unless you were a parent that showed up and showed out for your children.” shared one local mother.
Others highlighted the lack of special education, educational accommodation, and other medical attention. (According to other community members at the meeting, the school currently lacks a full-time nurse or counselor.) One former student, Will, shared their experience: “I went to Concord and I see at least 10 people in this room who I know who also did, and we were denied resources and proper teaching. I was denied an IAP, or a 504 [note: both are forms of student learning accommodation], which at the time I really needed. It was very impactful to my education, and very impactful to other people as well. […] It is incredible how poor the conditions are. I went into 6th grade not knowing 5th grade math from Concord.”
One mother shared how just this lack of student accommodations had forced her to move her sons away from Concord and towards schools in West Seattle instead. “I sent my [older son] to Lafayette instead, and he’s tremendously improved. […] But my youngest son, I wasn’t being told the truth about him. […] Academically he was OK, emotionally he wasn’t, crying when he raised his hand because he wasn’t getting the attention he needed for class. […] [The school district] can do better on getting the kids the support they need, they can’t handle it alone, they need a lot of help, I am moving my kid out of there next year – I want to see him succeed and not fall behind.”
Other comments pointed toward longstanding concern with the Spanish-English dual-language program at Concord, with many fearing that it was heading toward a period of low enrollment and under-funding, despite being a crucial service for bilingual families in South Park, and a pathway available to others. “My kids went to Concord and Denny, it’s been 12 years since, and [the program] has always been left on the chopping board due to lack of attendance and lack of marketing. When people sign up their kids at Concord, no one knows the program is there.” said one parent. “Our families really believe in the dual language program. We should be one of the star programs for the district, and unfortunately, we have very little engagement in this despite tons of advocacy.” said another community parent.
Despite the complaints surrounding the quality of education at Concord, many stressed to Shuldiner that the answer to the challenges at Concord is improvement, not closure. “If you close our school, it will destroy this community for our kids. Pushing us out will destroy what we have built for generations. It is critical we keep the school space we have; it is immensely and deeply connected to this place.” said one parent. Concord was not on either of the possible-closure lists floated in 2024, but its enrollment has been declining, currently 230, down from 276 two years ago and 325 in fall 2019, pre-pandemic.
As these meetings have mostly been sounding boards for the district to figure out where to direct their attention, little was offered as an immediate remedy for the grievances aired. Still, superintendent Shuldiner closed the meeting with words that sounded cautiously optimistic: “I want to tell you just how wonderful it was to hear your voice: the good and the bad, the things that are going well and the things that need changing, hopefully we can do this together.” he said. “This is a strong, but sometimes an isolated community. That’s not OK. The district needs to be listening and needs to be understanding, from buses to Concord to more programming – whatever it takes.”
Although Shuldiner’s first community-enagement tour is concluded now, there are still plans for future meetings where parents from across the district can gather and voice their concerns. Though nothing has been officially announced yet, one SPS administrator at Wednesday night’s meeting told us that one of these larger meetings might be scheduled for a school site in West Seattle soon. The last day of classes for SPS is less than three weeks away, June 17.
Thanks to AM for the video, recorded around 8 pm Friday toward the west end of Genesee Hill, near 56th/Dakota [map], where the coyote was seen between rows of parked cars. AM explained that the coyote was “NOT shy. Had my small dog with me and we went to the neighbors.” Other ways to react if you encounter a coyote – toward the goal of awareness, not alarm – are detailed in this tipsheet.
(Great Blue Heron faceoff, photo sent by Jerry Simmons)
Here’s what’s happening today/tonight – mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can preview events days/weeks ahead 24/7):
ROXHILL ELEMENTARY MOVE-A-THON: Students are doing laps today to raise money for outdoor education, and there’s still time to support them by pledging – our story from earlier this week explains.
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER Spring is garden time! See what’s new at the center, open today, 10 am-3 pm at north end of South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) campus (6000 16th SW).
STAY ‘N’ PLAY … This season’s last weekly indoor playtime for preschool-age kids, 10-11:30 am at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd). After this week, it’s on hiatus until fall.
SPRAYPARK SEASON CONTINUES: Rain or shine, daily-splashing season continues at Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
NO STORY TIME TODAY … canceled @ Delridge Library again this week.
WESTSIDE SCHOOL ONLINE INFO SESSION: Sign up to talk with Westside School (WSB sponsor) leadership online at noon!
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: Second-to-last chance to visit the home of West Seattle’s history before its month-long closure, noon-4 pm. (61st SW and SW Stevens)
ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE: For adult English-language learners, 12:30 pm-2 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
‘KICKOFF TO PRIDE’ PARTY: At the Louisa Boren STEM PreK-8 playground (5950 Delridge Way SW), 5-7:30 pm – details in our calendar listing.
TASTING ROOM AND WINE BAR: Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) is open 5-9 pm Fridays. Stop in to sip, or buy a bottle.
‘A KID’S LIFE’ MUSICAL: You’re invited to applaud The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary (WSB sponsor) students at their 6 pm performance at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), ticket info here.
COFFEEHOUSE COMEDY: At C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), the radio-style comedy troupe Midnight Mystery Theater performs 6-8 pm.
strong>LIVE MUSIC AT MR. B’S: Trashasaurus Rex, 7-9 pm at Mr. B’s Mead Center (9444 Delridge Way SW), no cover, all ages.
‘THE HAUNTING OF KENYON HALL’: “Nosferatu, An A/V Experience” at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), 7 pm doors, 7:30 pm show.
‘MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM’ AT WSHS: Last chance to see the Westside Drama student production of Shakespeare‘s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” 7:30 pm, performed in the school courtyard – details here. (3000 California SW)
FESTIVAL OF FRIENDS AT THE SKYLARK: Big night of music – Festival of Friends Community Presents: Three Waves: ’81 – ’89 / SYNTH – JANGLE – GRUNGE at The Skylark. Doors at 7, music at 8. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
SPINNING: Revelry Room is open tonight (4547 California SW), spinning with DJ Twilight, 9 pm.
‘MAKE IT LOUD’ SKATING WITH MUSIC: Tonight, skate to music with Law Boss & Test Frenzy, 9 pm at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). 21+. $20 cover/$5 skates.
If you have something to showcase on our event lists or ongoing calendar, please email what/when/where/etc. info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Before we get to the list of what’s up today/tonight, a weekend preview – fun for all ages tomorrow at Gatewood Elementary (4320 SW Myrtle) during the Gator Fair, 10:30 am-2:30 pm! Organizers asked us to share one more invitation:
Join us for the Fourth Annual Gatewood Gator Fair! Come and celebrate our community with carnival games (prizes!), face painting, performances, a Science Fair, Food Trucks, Vendors, and so much more!
The fair is FREE and we would love to see you there! email GatewoodGatorFair@gmail.com with any questions.
As noted on the poster, one of the highlights wil be a Seattle Fire engine/truck visiting at 11 am (provided an emergency doesn’t call the crew away). And as mentioned here on Thursday, local preparedness volunteers will have an Urban Survival Skills Fair on the festival grounds too.
6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Friday, May 29, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Showery, high near 60. Sunrise was at 5:17 am; sunset will be at 8:56 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular schedules.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the regular three-boat schedule. Check the alert page for any last-minute changes.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Now on “summer” schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedules Fridays (tonight!) and Saturdays.
STADIUM ZONE
Mariners are back home tonight, 7:10 pm vs. the Diamondbacks, and it’s ’90s Fireworks Night.
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:
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 trouble 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!
12:22 AM: According to Seattle Police radio, King County Sheriff’s Deputies are on the way to the 76 station across Roxbury from the former Roxhill school building. The dispatcher told officers the station was robbed just before midnight by three people, at least one with a gun.
1:18 AM: Deputies searched with K-9 assistance but didn’t find the robbers.
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Just concluded, after almost six hours, a marathon Sound Transit Board meeting centered on revising the ST3 plan.
Biggest headline for our area: West Seattle light rail, minus the Avalon station, moves forward, remaining on the “what’s affordable” list. There was little discussion or mention of West Seattle as the board went through the proposal and 13 amendments; perhaps the biggest news was board members unanimously committing to figuring out how to get light rail all the way to Ballard. “The math doesn’t work today but we’ll make it work,” was a statement from Pierce County board member Hunter George that summarized how that was going to happen, somehow. The transformation of West Seattle into a project considered “affordable” was held up as an example for what might be done to “make it work” for Ballard; George blurted that there was a time when he thought “West Seattle was cooked,” until various cuts and changes were made as part of what became known as ST’s Enterprise Initiative. ST’s Brad Owen noted that it took a full year of work to come up with those cuts and changes, and that the work came after a milestone in the WS project – the Record of Decision – that Ballard has not yet reached. Nonetheless, the commitment to Ballard was significant, acknowledged board member and Ballard-area Seattle City Councilmember Dan Strauss, who said he came to the meeting thinking he wouldn’t get that support. He got support not only for ensuring ST3 gets to Ballard, but also for setting a date for it, even though any date would be “unreliable,” staff warned, until the project is “baselined” in three years or so.
In closing comments, board member and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay noted this is basically the green light for West Seattle light rail, then turning to the lone West Seattleite on the board, County Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda, and asking, “Are you excited?” In her own remarks a few minutes later, Mosqueda noted that what’s happened so far was “no easy task” but also noted “this shows we are not powerless in the face of challenges. She called for “rolling up sleeves” and advancing work on West Seattle as well as other projects (board chair and Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers said WS is at 30 percent design).
Money challenges remain, in fact, and one amendment, by board member and Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, reflected that; she wanted work to start on a “new revenue package.” Some other board members said it was too soon, and that ST has enough of a trust problem that it wouldn’t be right to ask people “to pay more for what they’ve already paid for.” The proposal had the option of a “sub-area-only” proposal, and a few non-Seattle board members said that if Seattle (or some other area) wanted to tax itself further for this, “go for it.”
But that discussion will be for another day, probably even some other year.
As part of today’s activity, the board is using pre-approved taxing authority, maxing out a rental-car tax to raise $300 million more.
Overall, though, “The real hard work begins now,” declared Somers just before the final vote on the amended resolution, which was 16 yes, 2 no (Strauss, who said it still hadn’t gone as far as he needed it to, and Bellevue board member Claudia Balducci, who said she thought it needed more work.) “We are excited to finally move forward,” said ST CEO (and West Seattleite) Dow Constantine after the vote.
ADDED 8:35 PM: Board members are sending out statements. From Councilmember Mosqueda, this passage specific to WS:
… For West Seattle, this vote makes it possible to officially initiate early pre-construction work, such as geotechnical testing like drilling to test soil stability for the bridge foundation and contracting with critical engineering and design consultants, laying the groundwork for us to be able to build the promised light rail in the near future. West Seattle light rail expansion is now poised to enter a new phase of project development, made possible by cost savings work done by Sound Transit that has already yielded nearly $2.6 billion in savings while retaining ridership and avoiding impacts on many businesses and residential properties. …
ADDED 9:46 PM – WHAT’S NEXT? We asked Councilmember Mosqueda and chief of staff Erin House, who the councilmember described as immersed in ST matters, “what’s next?”
Today’s vote included funding for West Seattle design and construction in the 20-year plan, which enables the Board to authorize more specific steps authorizing expenditures in the coming weeks and months, including:
June
· Contract extensions for engineering, project management, and final design:
o Contract extension and budget authority for Engineering Design Services (EDS) final design (approximately $300M)
o Contract extension and budget authority for Project Management Support Services (approximately $35M)
o Budget authority for the project’s sustainability cost allocation (approximately $20M)
o Budget authority for miscellaneous final design costs (approximately $7M)July
· Budget authority for property acquisition, construction services agreement with City of Seattle, and permit fees:
o Budget authority for real property acquisitions (approximately $380M)
o Construction services agreement with the City of Seattle (approximately $15M)
o Third-party coordination, include City of Seattle permit fees (approximately $9M)September
· Contract extensions for engineering and design services
o Contract extension for systems-related EDS (approximately $27M)October
· Budget authority for real property acquisitions (approximately $90M)
Thanks for the tip. For the second time in less than three weeks, a West Seattle elementary school has suffered flooding from a broken pipe. First it was Lafayette – yesterday, it was Arbor Heights Elementary. Students were dismissed earlier than usual on Wednesday (which is always a short day) because the pipe break, in the boiler room, required water to be shut off entirely, the district media office tells WSB. They also confirm the problem’s been fixed, the flooded area’s been dried, and school resumed normally today. Here’s the letter principal Lauren Porto sent to families.
The 30th annual West Seattle Garden Tour is exactly one month away – on Sunday, June 28th. Today, the tour got a gift from Mechanics Bank – a $2,000 sponsorship grant, presented at the Mechanics branch in The Junction by vice president Robert Livingston, received by WSGT’s Jeff Daley. Twelve gardens from Alki to Arbor Heights are featured on this year’s tour; tickets are available now – online and at West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW; WSB sponsor) – proceeds support grants that the WSGT itself gives to nonprofits; see this year’s recipients here, and find out how to apply for next year’s grants here.
1:34 PM: Thanks to everyone who’s sent pics and tips about the plume of smoke from a fire across Puget Sound. For those viewing from east of West Seattle, don’t worry, it’s not here. Info as soon as we find it.
2:31 PM: According to an unofficial thread on X, it was a residential fire in Kitsap County; the address is west of Southworth.
5:35 PM: South Kitsap Fire posted the photo above, and a few others, via social media, and noted: “Just after 1:30 PM this afternoon SKFR crews were dispatched to reports of a residential structure fire on Albright Ave. First arriving crews found a working fire in the detached shop. … No injuries reported at this time.”
“Better safe than sorry.” The old saying is a theme for preparedness advocates – since they work on being ready for things that everyone hopes will never happen. We’re not talking doom and gloom, though – preparedness activities can be great ways to meet more neighbors and connect with community. You have four ways to do that during what volunteer preparedness advocates are calling the West Seattle Summer of Preparedness, and it starts this Saturday! Here’s the lineup of what’s ahead, courtesy of Cindi Barker from Seattle Emergency Communication Hubs:
West Seattle Summer of Preparedness 2026!
Attend any or all of these events to be better prepared to be safe and help your community after a disaster.
Urban Survival Skills Fair at Gatewood Elementary Gator Fest
Saturday, May 30 between 10:30 and 2:30 pm.
Gatewood Elementary west field, 4320 SW Myrtle St, SeattleJoin us at the Gatewood Gatorfest to learn valuable “urban survival” skills to support your household – and neighbors – when disaster strikes. You’ll be able to visit multiple information tables to give you the skills and knowledge to be ready for disasters and sometimes just daily emergencies.
Household Preparedness
Be emergency-smart; learn the risks we face in West Seattle and practical tips to make sure your home and family are safe and prepared. Two identical sessions; please request a ticket for your date so we know how many will attend each session.
Saturday, June 6, 1 – 3 pm, High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond St)
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/household-preparedness-tickets-1989781973446Wednesday, June 17, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm West Seattle Golf Course Clubhouse (4470 35th Ave SW) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/household-preparedness-tickets-1989782423793
Hub 101 Volunteer Training
Learn how an “Emergency Hub” works so you can quickly jump in and support your neighbors post-disaster. We’ll practice the basic roles and run thru “scripts” (situations we think our neighbors will come to the Hub with). It’s great fun and interactive. You’ll quickly grasp how everything works together and feel much more prepared to support your household – and your neighbors!
Two identical sessions, please sign up and tell us your nearest Hub so we can seat neighbors together.
Weds, July 22, 6:30 – 8:30pm West Seattle Golf Course Clubhouse (4470 35th Ave SW)
https://signup.com/go/bBzAMoESunday, July 26, 1 – 3pm High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond St)
https://signup.com/go/ZhoGtYOField Exercise for all West Seattle Hubs
Saturday, Aug 15, 10 – 2pm
Morgan Junction Park (6401 California Ave SW)This year we will set up a Hub and practice at Morgan Junction Park. All West Seattle Hubs will participate at that location. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. We’ll need neighbors to put the Emergency Hub volunteers through their paces. Large exercises are fun, informative, and inspiring. Plan on joining in!! More details coming this summer.
1:04 PM: Thanks for the tips. SWAT officers are reported to be after someone in a Fauntleroy Way building just south of Alaska. We are working on details.
1:39 PM: According to comments, the officers are inside the Maris Apartments (4722 Fauntleroy Way SW), which was the target of gunfire and rock-throwing last week. We have a question out to SPD about whether this is warrant- or incident-related.
2:14 PM: SPD replied, “SPD is assisting US Marshals.” We’ve updated the headline. We’ll inquire with that agency next.
(WSB photo, May 2025)
One year ago this month, longtime local entrepreneur/community advocate Lora Radford opened Potterings in a warmly lit spot at ActivSpace, and has introduced countless people to the joys of ceramics creation ever since. This Sunday, Potterings invites you to a first-anniversary party, noon to 4 pm (corrected) Sunday (May 31) on the east side of 3400 Harbor Avenue SW. She says you’re welcome to stop by and check out the “community clay space designed with beginners in mind … welcoming, hands-on, and built to help you feel comfortable from the start.” The free mini-classes offered as part of this are already booked up, but “folks can stil stop by for a free limited-edition luminary, enter drawings to win a free 3-hour workshop, and just check out the studio. Whether you are brand new to clay or just curious, this is a great way to step into the studio, meet the community, and experience a little pottery magic.” And, of course, it’s a chance to congratulate the proprietor on reaching the one-year milestone.
One more note: Potterings is again presenting the Game of Shrooms scavenger hunt, with 25 ceramic mushrooms – created by Potterings co-op members – hidden around West Seattle starting June 13. Clues will be posted on the Potterings website’s Game of Shrooms page.
(Thanks to Margaret for the photo from South Seattle College Arboretum Sensory Garden)
Here are our highlights for today/tonight, from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – thanks to everyone who sends events for us to share!):
FREE PLAYSPACE: Church of the Nazarene‘s free drop-in space is open until noon. (42nd SW and SW Juneau)
THURSDAY KAYAK CLUB: 10 am with Alki Kayak Tours at Seacrest (1660 Harbor SW) – details here if you want to set a reminder to join up next week!
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: 10:30 am at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
SPRAYPARK SEASON CONTINUES: Daily-splashing season at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
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!) Often C & P Coffee, we’re told (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor)
SOUND TRANSIT BOARD: What’s next for the West Seattle light rail plan, and the rest of ST3? Today’s board meeting – scheduled for 1:30 to 5 pm, downtown and online – is the next step. Our preview has links with info including how to comment.
DROP-IN CHESS: For young players, 4 pm at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two 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 Five Hooks Seafood.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
COMMUNITY MEETING WITH POLICE: This time, the Southwest Precinct Advisory Council meets at Delridge Community Center (4501 Delridge Way SW), 5-6:30 pm. Bring concerns and questions. Agenda info is in our calendar listing.
HELP HARVEST FOOD: Puget Ridge Edible Park (18th/Brandon) needs volunteers to help harvest fresh food that will be donated to food banks (and you can take some home too). Just be there 5-7 pm!
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!
GRIEF IS CRAFTY: 6 pm monthly craft circle for those grieving – our calendar listing has info and registration link. (5446 California SW)
POKEMON LEAGUE: 6 pm Thursdays at Fourth Emerald Games (4517 California SW, upstairs) – bring your own console.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm, starting from Good Society (California SW and SW Lander), you’re welcome to join the Westies Run Club‘s Thursday night community run!
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Or – you can walk! Meet at 6 pm at 47th/Fontanelle for tonight’s group walk – details in our calendar listing.
DUSTY THURSDAYS AT TIM’S: 6-9 pm, The Dusty 45s preceded by The Mrs. Bill Larsens, outdoors, all ages, no cover, donations accepted for the musicians. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
BALLOONS & BOOZE: Monthly beginners’ class in balloon-art-making, hosted by Sizzle the Clown, 7 pm at Mr. B’s Mead Center (9444 Delridge Way SW).
LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: Hear new music by Boards of Canada, 7 pm, free, all ages. (4559 California SW)
TRIVIA AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7:10 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).
‘MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM’ AT WSHS: The Westside Drama student production of Shakespeare‘s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” continues at 7:30 pm, performed in the school courtyard – details here. (3000 California SW)
TRIVIA AT THE VOID: 7:30 pm, with prizes, at The Void (5048 California SW).
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: 8 pm show with The Shvkes, Pink Moss, Boydream, $10 cover, at The Skylark (3803 Delridge Way SW)
AT REVELRY ROOM: Tonight’s musical event at Revelry Room (4547 California SW) features BYO Vinyl night starting at 8 pm. 21+.
Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview lists? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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