West Seattle, Washington
02 Saturday
11:47 AM: Thanks for the tips and sorry to be late on this. The “scenes of violence” call around 11 am in the 7900 block of Delridge Way was dispatched as a domestic-violence attack – a 41-year=old man allegedly attacking his mother, allegedly armed with a knife. Police know who they are looking for, a man described so far as 41 years old, white, 5’10”, and unclothed. Our crew just got there and says police are outside the residence trying to get the suspect to come out, making announcements via loudspeaker.
12:07 PM: Police are setting up a command post. Our crew says traffic is still being allowed through the area on Delridge.
12:29 PM: Our crew nearby says they’re still trying to talk the suspect out – assuming he’s inside – it’s not clear how certain they are of that.
1:17 PM: SFD tells us the victim is a 61-year-old woman who was in table condition when taken to the hospital. No word yet on the status of the suspect.
1:24 PM: Now they’re closing Delridge between Holden and Thistle.
It’s been a busy morning, but as promised, we finalized the map and list for West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2026, and have published both the interactive map an the printable list of sales (a record 644 sales, 38 pages!). See the map here; the printable list is linked there, but here’s the direct link. It’s also available via the WSB menu (look for GARAGE SALE DAY MAP). To recap:
-WSCGSD is always (since 2005) the second Saturday in May – this year, that’s May 9th
-Official sale hours are 9 am-3 pm, but as you’ll see in the listings, some are starting earlier and/or ending later, and some are adding extra days
-The listings are those of sellers who registered between April 1 and April 22 – all sizes and types of sales, all around the area!
What we do from here is continue to get the word out – we do that in myriad ways, including WSB stories plus posters and ads – and since we’ve had the benefit of having read all 640+ listings, we will be making lists of sales with certain features or focuses. We’ll also get a note out to sellers later today including, if interested, the template for your “Official Sale” sign. Updates to come!
6:36 AM: Also in the pre-dawn hours, a carjacking on Harbor Avenue SW, on the first night of new “summer safety” hours from Alki Beach Park to Don Armeni Boat Ramp (a short distance east of where this happened). Thanks for the tip on this; according to archived police radio, the initial report came in as a driver hitting a parked vehicle in the 1000 block of Harbor Avenue just before 4 am. Reports then came in about a driver being carjacked at the scene and suspect(s) taking off in that vehicle, described as a gray Chrysler Pacifica. At least one was reported to be armed; one 911 caller had reported hearing possible shots but police say they found no evidence, or witnesses, of gunfire. As this was all being investigated, police found a different vehicle (update, not clear yet if this was a different scene), a Toyota sedan, that had been stolen in a South Seattle carjacking earlier in the night. We’re asking police for more info on all this, and also sorting through photos sent by the tipster (thank you).
6:48 AM: The photo above was taken after the crash; the one below shows police with a vehicle left behind (a Toyota, but we don’t know yet if it’s the one referenced above):
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
As the weekend begins, here’s our highlight list, as usual mostly from our West Seattle Event Calendar (if we’re missing something, text info ASAP to 206-293-6302):
LINCOLN PARK RUN WITH WEST SEATTLE RUNNER: From West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor):
West Seattle Runner is doing a group run field trip to Lincoln Park! Many of our runners/walkers are doing the One Step Closer event in in August and we want to get everyone familiar with the route. Those who are not doing the event are coming to the field trip for the opportunity to run and walk in a beautiful place with friendly people. We will meet at 8 am at the upper parking lot Look for the bright orange West Seattle Runner tent, you cannot miss us! We will be at the tent from 8 to 10 am, so you can leave belongings safely with us. If you finish your workout after we leave, we will take your belongings back to the shop with us and you can pick up until we close at 5pm at West Seattle Runner.
WHITE CENTER REFRESH: Annual community cleanup at multiple sites; volunteers are gathering at 8:30 am at White Center HUB (8th SW and SW 108th) – details here.
WEST SEATTLE GARDEN CLUB SALE: 9 am-3 pm, annual plant sale! (6353 50th 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.
WEST SEATTLE TAE KWON DO: First class of the month is at 9:30 am, all levels welcome, at High Point Community Center (6920 34th SW)
OPEN HOUSE & PLAY-TO-CONNECT @ THE BRIDGE SCHOOL: 10 am-noon at The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary (10030 28th SW; WSB sponsor), not just a chance to tour the school, but also to play!
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY: At West Seattle’s only comic-book store, Tails to Astonish (5633 California SW), one free comic book today for everyone who stops in, more with a purchase! 10 am-5 pm.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM: The home of West Seattle’s history is open, with newly expanded Saturday hours 10 am-4 pm (61st SW and SW Stevens).
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)
VASHON ISLAND ART-STUDIO TOUR: This weekend and next, 10 am-5 pm both days, you can tour art studios around Vashon. (WSB sponsor)
MASTER GARDENERS AT DELRIDGE HOME DEPOT: They’re back, 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)
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.
FAMILY STORY TIME: 10:30 am at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), for families with kids up to 5 years old.
ALKI HISTORY WALKING TOUR: Preregister here ASAP, then show up at the Log House Museum (61st SW and SW Stevens) for this morning’s 11 am walking tour.
SEATTLE CHINESE GARDEN PEONY FESTIVAL: 11 am-4 pm, with performances and other activities starting at noon. The garden is on the north end of the campus of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor)
FAMILY READING TIME: Every Saturday at Paper Boat Booksellers, 11 am family reading time. (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor)
WEST SEATTLE TOOL LIBRARY: Open 11 am-4 pm for tool-borrowing!. Find the WSTL on the northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center (4408 Delridge Way SW).
MONTHLY COMMUNITY WORKOUT: 11:30 am at CrossFit West Seattle (4200 SW Admiral Way) – preregister here.
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER: Community visitors welcome noon-3 pm at the West Seattle Vietnamese Cultural Center (2236 SW Orchard).
MOUNTAIN MADNESS GEAR SWAP: 12-2 pm, bring your gently used outdoor gear to the Mountain Madness offices and swap for new gear! (9249 17th SW)
FIRE STATION OPEN HOUSES: 1-3 pm, as part of Seattle’s Neighbor Day, all fire stations around the city will open to the public; our calendar listing has the five West Seattle stations’ locations.
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.
‘LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS’ X 2: The student. production at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle) has two performances today/tonight, 2 and 7 pm.
FREE MASSAGE: Walk-in clinic with “short, specific sessions” at Nepenthe (9447 35th SW), 3-5 pm.
‘NOURISH AND FLOURISH’: 6 pm, West Seattle Food Bank‘s biggest annual fundraiser at 4105 in SODO (4105 Airport Way) – ticket sales have closed so this is just a reminder for ticketholders, it’s happening tonight!
‘WALDEN’ AT ARTSWEST: Final weekend continues for ArtsWest‘s current play, 7:30 pm curtain. (4711 California SW)
CARTOON MESS AT KENYON HALL: Cartoon Mess Live! at Kenyon Hall, 7:30 pm, a fave at The Hall. (7904 35th SW)
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: 8 pm, Roxbury Saints, Insect Man, Royal Blunder – $10 at the door. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
MUSIC AT TIM’S: ALJ Afronova // Bao Bella // Mara Cara at Tim’s in White Center, 8 pm, all ages. (16th SW & SW 98th)
REVELRY ROOM SPINNING: 9 pm, DJ Vega. (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: Saturday night singing 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, our calendar is open for you; listings are free of charge, always! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
5:22 AM: Thanks for the tips. The eastbound West Seattle Bridge is blocked by the aftermath of a crash and drivers are being diverted to 99.
(Framegrab from traffic camera)
5:29 AM: The crash scene is east of 99. Only crash on the SFD log was near the 4th Avenue exit just after 2 am,
5:39 AM: Police have just reopened the eastbound bridge. … According to archived police radio, SFD closed the entire bridge aroun 3:40 am for safety reasons – because “multiple vehicles” passing the scene pre-closure almost hit them.
7:09 AM: An SFD spokesperson just told us “there were no patients” at the scene. So we’re still trying to solve the mystery of why one fire unit was there for two hours.
7:33 AM: SFD spokesperson Kaila Lafferty elaborates, “It was a non-injury collision but the vehicle was not able to move. The crew was at the collision site until SPD was able to respond so they could hand the scene over. The crew ended up blocking lanes for safety due to the high rate of speed drivers kept passing the incident.”
By Macey Wurm
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
“A lot has changed over 50 years, but what hasn’t changed is our commitment to showing up for people during the hardest moments of their lives,” said Transitional Resources board president Ken Bailey as the nonprofit celebrated its first half-century Thursday evening..
Transitional Resources is a West Seattle based non-profit blending housing and behavioral health services, has been around since 1976, and gathered supporters at Georgetown Stables to celebrate and donate.
Centered just south of the Luna Park district, Transitional Resources has developed unique programs to aid clients in various stages of their journeys. Among these is TRY House, a 15-bed program and assisted living facility in West Seattle. This specific program is catered toward adults with higher support needs. The organization also offers a supportive housing program, allowing residents to live independently in community-integrated homes close to Transitional Housing’s treatment teams and services.
Bailey explained to attendees how Transitional Resources came about decades ago, with a brief story about Sister Elaine Smith. She saw a gap in the resources available to fit her sister’s ongoing needs. This led to a space created for young adults experiencing mental illness to live and receive continued support, with the end goal of transitioning back into the community:
“What we’re celebrating is the outcome that the model has helped to achieve. We celebrate the first move, after years of cycling through crisis services, finally walking into their very own apartment and feeling like they could breathe again.”
Bailey urged the audience to “stay engaged,” as while Transitional Resources is celebrating its undeniable impact on those in need, that this need is not going to go away. “Please help us keep these stories going,” he said.
Transitional Resources is going through a transitional period of their own right now, with the announcement in January of longtime CEO Darcell Slovek-Walker’s retirement effective June 30th.
Slovek-Walker has worked in the behavioral-health realm for 40 years, serving as Transitional Resource’s CEO for the last 22. A post on the organization’s website expressed immense gratitude for the heart that she put into her work, the organization, and the community.
“She has ensured a safe space for clients to live with respect and dignity, has cared for the wellbeing of the staff, and has been an advocate for behavioral health support and housing throughout King County,” Bailey wrote in the post.
Transitional Resources has not yet announced a successor for its departing CEO.
If you have a view across Elliott Bay toward the Space Needle, you might have seen that drone show tonight; Kevin Freitas recorded part of it from one of West Seattle’s highest hills. Princess Cruises presented it in honor of its new ship Star Princess, which is making its way up the West Coast to Seattle, where it’ll start its first Alaska cruise season on Sunday.
West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2026 is one week away from tomorrow, on Saturday, May 9. As usual, we will have the 600+-sale map ready for previews one week in advance – so that means tomorrow, Saturday, May 2. So if you just can’t wait to see who’s having a sale near you, plot your route, or – for sellers – get your number, check here on WSB by 8 am Saturday. When the map – both clickable version and printable sale list – is ready, we’ll announce it in a story here on the WSB main page (barring major breaking news), and we’ll also add it to the WSB site menu, so you’ll find the direct link to the map page there until WSCGSD is over. The map page also will have important updates – added throughout the week – such as links to lists of sales with certain categories of items, sales that will be open extra days, post-publication cancellations, etc.
Get out and enjoy the evening at Highland Park Improvement Club‘s secpnd First Fridays party of the year! Art by local makers, music, food (empanadas!), and drink await you at 12th/Holden.
You’ll find information too – African Community Housing and Development is there to answer questions about the Delridge Farmers Market‘s new location in south Highland Park (as we first reported last month):
The market opens two weeks from tomorrow, on Saturday, May 16. And the First Fridays party continues at HPIC until 8:30 tonight!
PHOTOS BY OLIVER HAMLIN FOR WEST SEATTLE BLOG
As the regular season winds down, Chief Sealth International High School and West Seattle High School faced off in softball for the second time in less than a month. Last night’s final score at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex was similar to the earlier game – a double-digit win for the Wildcats, 26-2. Above is Lillian Zerr, who led WSHS scoring with five RBI on four hits. Below, Maddie Moeller, who got both of Chief Sealth’s RBI on one hit:
The Wildcats also had two players with four RBI each – Molly Lefkowitz and Daeja Piggee (below):
Two WSHS players had three RBI each – Kaila Ignacio and Marina Strange (below):
More photos:
Above, Chief Sealth’s Nyko Herndon; below, West Seattle’s Lucy Malloy:
Below, Chief Sealth’s Zayda Fischer:
Next, West Seattle’s Mackenzie Curry Uzwack:
Next, Chief Sealth’s Dani Thach:
And West Seattle’s Julia Herron:
WSHS is 9-4; Chief Sealth is 8-6. Both teams’ last regular-season games are at 4 pm Monday (May 4), with WSHS vs. Rainier Beach at NCSWAC, and CSIHS vs. Cleveland at Georgetown Playfield.
First, Kate hopes you will be on the lookout for her 12-year-old son’s baseball gear bag:
I’m thinking it may have been left in our car and stolen by car prowlers? It’s a black and white Easton gear backpack with a helmet, mitt, 2 bats, other miscellaneous baseball stuff. Maybe somebody found the bag or some stuff that got dumped, we’re near 30th Ave SW between Othello & Myrtle. Probably would have been Wed or Thursday, He’s pretty bummed.
And Jeff sent this note about a seemingly dumped power tool found in Alki:
My son found a Ryobi power tool around Admiral and 63rd (Wednesday) evening.
He didn’t want to publish exactly what kind of power tool but email us and if it’s a likely match, we’ll connect you – same for Kate if you find the potentially stolen gear.
(WSB file photo from Loop the ‘Lupe)
Five weeks from tomorrow, Seattle’s only obstacle-course 5K – and three other events – descend on Walt Hundley Playfield for the fun(draiser) known as Loop the ‘Lupe, on Saturday, June 6 (with co-sponsors including WSB). Coordinator Brian Callanan wants to ensure you know that if you’re thinking of participating but haven’t registered yet, today is a great day to do it: “Today is the last day for our early bird pricing deal for Loop the ‘Lupe! Participants can save up to 20% compared to race-day prices if they sign up before midnight. Teams of 4+ save even more, so get your crew together and GET IN THE LOOP!” If the obstacle course doesn’t interest you, your other Loop the ‘Lupe options include a 5K Fun Run, a Kids’ Dash, and a walk geared toward seniors. Proceeds benefit work Our Lady of Guadalupe does in the community. Go here to register now!
Today we’re welcoming back The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary as a WSB sponsor. New local sponsors have the opportunity to tell you about themselves; here’s what The Bridge School would like you to know:
Local Independent Elementary Now Enrolling K-5 and Announces Part Day Kindergarten Offering
At The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary, a small, independent K-5 in White Center, we’re excited to offer Part-Day Kindergarten starting Fall 2026. This new program will foster young students’ foundational academic skills while slowly building endurance for longer school days.
With a focus on outdoor learning, play, the arts, and caregiver engagement, Bridge School offers a unique nurturing environment for students K-5. We have space for all ages 5-10 for Fall 2026! Learn more at bridgeschoolcoop.org or schedule a private chat and tour by emailing our Head of School, amanda@bridgeschoolcoop.org.
What Makes Bridge School Different?
The Bridge School is the only local elementary offering weekly instruction outdoors in an innovative Outdoor Education model. Seahurst Park in Burien becomes Bridge students’ classroom once a week, with hands-on investigation of the natural sciences, building connection and comfort with nature year-round. Learning is always an adventure when the beach and forest are your classroom!
As a community dedicated to affirming the identities of LGBTQIA and neurodiverse students and families, Bridge School is rethinking what inclusive education looks like in practice. Unlike programs that treat inclusion as an add on, e integrate gender expansiveness and neurodiversity into the fabric of the academic model and community programming, preparing students to both understand themselves and advocate for others.
Incorporating weekly arts instruction, a yearly musical theater production, and seasonal community events, Bridge School is a small and active community where each child and family can express themselves and feel known.
Is Bridge School Right for Your Family in 2026-27? Now Enrolling
Could The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary be right for your family? Our curriculum is designed to support students as learners exactly where they’re at academically, while prioritizing relationships and social-emotional learning. Classroom teachers have over a decade of teaching experience and use multi-age classes and hands-on learning to excite students.
As a cooperative school, families are welcomed into all aspects, from assisting in classrooms, to accompanying young naturalists on outdoor days, to leadership and governance. Participation looks different for everyone, as families’ contributions are tailored to fit their availability and skills. For all, however, it’s the shared values of community and support that make The Bridge School a school home for students and adults alike.
Come Get to Know The Bridge School
There are several opportunities coming up to get to know our community:
Free! May 2nd Play Date & Open House 10 am-12 noon
Free! Weekly Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Tuesdays 10 am for ages 0-5 with caregiver
Free! Pride Family Book Club at White Center Library 4th Thursdays 4:30-5:30
Free! Find us and kid-center activities at the White Center Spring Fling Sat. May 9th
Attend our Spring Musical Theater performance of A Kid’s Life Friday, May 29th, 6 pm, or Saturday, May 30th, 2 pm, at Fauntleroy Church. Purchase tickets here. Kids 0-4 free with an adult ticket.
We thank The Bridge School Cooperative Elementary for choosing to advertise the school by sponsoring independent, community-collaborative neighborhood news on WSB. Interested in joining our sponsor team? Please email WSBAdvertising@wsbsales.com for information – thank you!
(WSB photo, May 2025)
That was the scene at West Seattle’s only comic-book store, Tails to Astonish, on Free Comic Book Day last year – AFTER the rush. Tomorrow’s the big day, and Tails to Astonish has reasons for you to visit:
We will have free comics for all ages. One free comic for everyone who stops by, plus more with a purchase. SOME of the titles: Spidey and His Amazing Friends, Garfield, Masters of the Universe, Jem, Avengers, Amazing Spider-Man, Something is Killing the Children, Aliens, and more! We will also be having our Spring Cleaning Sale… all books in the large blue bins are half off sticker price OR if they don’t have a price they are just $2!
Tails to Astonish is at 5633 California SW and will be open 10 am-5 pm on Saturday.
The report was emailed overnight by Wendell, from 41st/Dawson:
I usually take our dog out around 11:30 and midnight, and have been in this routine for about 5-1/2 years.
Tonight was the first time I’ve seen a coyote in this part of the neighborhood. A very large adult coyote heading up the Dawson hill at a good jogging clip, heading west toward California Ave. It seemed like it was on a task, and thankfully didn’t even give us any mind.
Now our reminder – we have published coyote reports for 15+ years in the spirit of awareness, not alarm, and you can learn about coexisting with them via wildlife experts’ advice.
(Thursday photo by Bob Burns)
Here’s what’s happening today/tonight – mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you can always peek days/weeks ahead):
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 … weekly indoor playtime for preschool-age kids, 10-11:30 am at Arbor Heights Community Church (4113 SW 102nd).
NO STORY TIME TODAY … canceled @ Delridge Library again this week.
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: Visit the home of West Seattle’s history, 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).
MAY DAY DEMONSTRATION: You’re invited to join Old Tyme Adults for Democracy at Admiral/California, 3-3:30 pm.
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.
‘LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS’ AT CSIHS: Student production’s opening night at Chief Sealth International High School (2600 SW Thistle), 7 pm.
HIGH-SCHOOL SPORTS: No local games/matches on the schedule today/tonight.
FIRST FRIDAYS AT HPIC: 5:30-8:30 pm, so much fun at this community gathering on the Highland Park Improvement Club corner, details in our calendar listing. (12th/Holden)
COFFEEHOUSE OPEN MIC: 6 pm, open mic night at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor).
BASEMENT LISTENING PARTY: 7 pm, hear and buy the new recording at Easy Street Records (4559 California SW), one week early. Free, all ages.
BINGO AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7 pm, classic bingo. (2306 California SW)
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Live music with Swinson, The Rolling Thunder, Will Rainier & the Pines. Doors at 7, music at 8. $10 cover. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
‘WALDEN’ AT ARTSWEST: 7:30 pm, last weekend for ArtsWest‘s “speculative fiction” play. (4711 California SW)
SPINNING: Revelry Room is open tonight (4547 California SW), spinning tonight with DJ Tony H, 9 pm.
‘MAKE IT LOUD’ SKATING WITH MUSIC: Tonight, skate to music with Girls N’ Roses (Guns N’ Roses Tribute), Bloody Sabbath (Black Sabbath Tribute), 9 pm at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). 21+. $20 cover/$5 skates.
NEW CLOSING TIME: As we’ve been reporting, “summer” hours for Alki and Don Armeni start tonight, with a 10:30 pm closing time. Beach-fire season does not start until May 22, though.
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!
(WSDOT photo, March)
In case you missed the mention in our traffic/weather roundup, the full schedule is out for the second wave of northbound 1st Avenue South Bridge repairs to cracked steel deck plates. Here’s WSDOT‘s announcement, which includes word of shuttles for bicycle riders and pedestrians:
Up to three lanes will close across the northbound SR 99 First Avenue South Bridge starting at 9 p.m. each night beginning as early as Monday, May 4, through Friday morning, May 8, to set up a work zone. All lanes will reopen across the bridge each morning by 5 a.m.
All northbound lanes across the SR 99 First Avenue South Bridge will close for bridge repairs:
-From 10 p.m. Friday, May 8, until 5 a.m. Monday, May 11.
-From 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. each night Monday, May 11, until Friday morning, May 15 and Monday, May 18, until Friday morning, May 22.
-Additional night or weekend closures are possible depending on the pace of bridge repairs. …What people can expect
Signed detours will guide northbound SR 509/SR 99 traffic around the bridge closure. Congestion is likely and people should use northbound Interstate 5 or other alternate routes during construction.The First Avenue South Bridge Trail also will close during these times. Accessible shuttle vans operating from signed locations north and south of the bridge will carry pedestrians and cyclists around the work zone.
Maritime traffic under the First Avenue South Bridge will be restricted during construction. Vessels requiring the bridge to open must provide 24-hour notice and confirm their arrival two hours beforehand. These U.S. Coast Guard restrictions will remain in place through June 30, 2026.
Three-phase bridge repair strategy
WSDOT developed a three-phase repair plan after inspectors identified cracks in the steel grid bridge deck in February 2026.WSDOT crews completed Phase 1 repairs in March 2026 during a five-day closure of the bridge. These initial repairs allowed all northbound lanes to reopen across the bridge at a temporary reduced speed limit.
Phase 2 repairs begin Friday night, May 8, and last roughly 30 days. Contractor crews working for WSDOT will replace nine 28-by-9-foot steel deck panels. Once complete, all northbound lanes across the SR 99 First Avenue South Bridge will reopen at normal speeds.
The emergency contract for Phase 2 repairs was awarded to C.A. Carey of Issaquah. The estimated cost is $1.3 million.
Phase 3 repairs will replace remaining steel grid deck plates on the northbound SR 99 First Avenue South Bridge. This work is in the design phase and is currently scheduled for the 2027 construction season.
Youth soccer players, whether recreational or competitive, are invited to check out the Highline Soccer Association, with some of their programs now in tryout time. Here’s the info HSA asked us to share with you:
Highline Soccer Association (HSA) is a community-based soccer program that provides competitive and recreational teams for its members.
Recreational Soccer
If your child is looking to play soccer recreationally, the Highline Soccer Association (HSA) offers two Recreational Soccer Clubs — West Seattle Soccer Club and the Highline Soccer Club. Registration for spring soccer has closed; registration for fall soccer will open in May/June.
If you have questions about which club is the best path forward for your kid, please reach out to the Highline Board of Directors – highlinesoccer@gmail.com.
Competitive soccer – HSA Select and Highline Premier FC
HSA Select
HSA Select plays in the North Puget Sound League. These players train more frequently with higher expectations than the Recreational player and volunteer licensed coaches go through an application process.
Highline Select Tryouts: Organized by Age Group (players born 2007-2016) May 1-16.
Learn more about HSA Select or contact us at hsaselect@gmail.com
Highline Premier Football Club
Highline Premier FC offers year-round, competitive soccer led by nationally licensed coaches. We form teams in both the Washington Premier League and the Regional Club League, providing community-based, top-level development opportunities across the community.
Highline Premier Tryouts: Organized by Age Group (players born from 2007-2019) now – May 14
Questions? Reach out anytime; we’d love to connect at highlinepremier.com.
8:15 PM: Motorcycle-involved crash reported at Fauntleroy and Raymond, partly blocking southbound.
8:26 PM: Police say the rider was not seriously hurt and the road should reopen shortly.
Earlier:
6:00 AM: Good morning! Welcome to Friday, May 1, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Partly sunny, high near 70. Sunrise was at 5:51 am; sunset will be at 8:21 pm.
(Today’s sunrise, photographed by Ryan Caple)
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular schedules.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Now on “summer” schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedules Fridays (tonight!) and Saturdays.
Washington State Ferries – Last day of two-boat schedule for Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route, per WSF’s alert page. That’s also where you’ll find a summary of fare/pass changes starting today (Friday, May 1). Also, work at the Fauntleroy dock trestle is now expected to continue into next week.
WEEKEND ALERT
More bicycles on the streets (and the Fauntleroy-Vashon ferry) Sunday morning and midday for the Ride for Major Taylor, which starts and ends in White Center.
STADIUM ZONE
Mariners are back home for a 6:45 pm game vs. the Royals.
ADVANCE CLOSURE ALERTS
As announced Thursday, the West Seattle low bridge will be closed to drivers May 16-17. The schedule for 1st Avenue South Bridge northbound repairs – starting May 8 – has just been announced too.
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 (25 mph speed limit):
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!
Now our second baking story! The daylong “Tastes Like Home” food/culture celebration at South Seattle College (WSB sponsor) – previewed here – culminated Thursday afternoon with a taste-test competition for baked goods created by 10 aspiring chefs, judged by a prestigious panel.
Here’s what the the contestants created (alphabetical by creation’s name) – all original recipes that had to be baked goods featuring a whole grain and fitting into the event’s “Tastes Like Home”theme:
Berry Green Matcha Raspberry Jam Cupcakes by Deeqa
Blueberry Pancake Blondie, by Rachael
Coffee Ceremony Chocolate Cake, by Foziya
Homemade Pani Popo, by Ali’i
Kaab el Ghazal, by Layal
Pear, Apricot, and Blackberry Galette, by Adam
Red-Filled Conchas, by Bruce
Sweet Potato Pound Cake with Vanilla Icing Glaze, by Latrice
Whole Wheat Chocolate Baharat Angel Food Cake with Rose Icing and Fennel Pollen Glaze, by Tyler
Yema Pianono Sponge Cake with Yema Filling by Raoul
The event was a collaboration with King Arthur Baking Company, whose Jonathan Eng was one of the judges, along with William Leaman of Bakery Nouveau, SSC president Dr. Monica Brown, Rachael Coyle of Coyle’s Bakeshop, and Christina Wood of Temple Pastries. They sampled and evaluated big bites of each offering:
…while an audience awaited the verdict:
As did display plates of some of the taste treats:
And the winner … Foziya’s Coffee Ceremony Chocolate Cake, inspired by her Ethiopian heritage – coffee is a big deal in Ethiopia, she had explained, celebrated with ceremonies.
She won a choice between a $5,000 cash prize and a trip to King Arthur’s headquarters. Plus, her recipe will be further refined and then published – so you’ll get a chance to try making it too. (It includes espresso, cardamom cream-cheese filling, and Swiss buttercream.) There were two runner-ups – Latrice’s sweet-potato pound cake, inspired by her aunt, and Rachael’s blueberry-pancake blondie, harkening back to the pancakes her dad made for breakfast when she was little.
First of two baking-related stories we have for you before the night’s out. This one was sent by proud mom Laurel Taylor:
Our daughter, Elspeth Stoner (WSHS grad), went off to Carleton College in MN last September, her dad’s alma mater.
She got work study and was one of only three first-year students chosen to work at Dacie Moses House, where a primary function is baking treats for anyone who stops into the house. We are pretty sure that the reason she was chosen is that she put on her resume that she had volunteered over the years for The Christmas People with her sister Gwendolyn and grandma Carol. They baked dozens of cookies and then also volunteered to pack them.
Fast forward to (Wednesday)’s paper New York Times, where Elspeth’s photo is on the front page of the food section! She is not mentioned by name in the article but she is there. In a fun follow-up, she was just offered and accepted a position as one of the residents for next year. She is the one wearing a green cardigan holding a plate of Cowboy Cookies — my recipe ;). It’s also on the NYT website
The Christmas People are a nonprofit that collects thousands of home-baked cookies in West Seattle and vicinity every holiday season to distribute to people in need. We asked Elspeth what she baked for those donations: Various types, he said, “like oatmeal raisin, cranberry cookies, and I believe the same recipe for Cowboy Cookies that I’m holding in the photo in the NYTimes. At Dacie’s, of course, I make all kinds of things depending on what we need each week.” We also asked what she’s majoring in: “At Carleton we aren’t allowed to declare a major until the end of sophomore year, but I’m fairly certain I’m going to be a Biology and English double major.”
With one day to go until summer hours officially begin at Alki Beach Park, the Statue of Liberty Plaza got some TLC today. The plaza was created after a community-fundraising campaign back in the 2000s, and the Alki Community Council oversees the fund that still pays for its maintenance. The photo above is from ACC president Charlotte Starck, who reports, ” Getting ready for the summer season – spring maintenance on the Statue of Liberty Plaza is underway. The benches are getting stained. They look fabulous!”
A statewide organization campaigning for universal health care is coming to West Seattle for its next major event.
The organization Whole Washington will gather supporters for a gala at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center on Saturday, May 16. Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson is scheduled to be one of the guest speakers, as is State Rep. Shaun Scott.
It’s expected to be an opportunity to learn more about the status of the campaign – actually campaigns, according to the Whole Washington website, including a push for a ballot initiative in 2028.
One of the supporters who told us about the event points out that ticket sales are closing this Saturday, so if you have interest, you’ll want to decide soon about whether to attend.
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