West Seattle news 60762 results

Two reader reports:

STOLEN PICKUP TRUCK: From Ketsy:

Our locked gray Ford F-350 diesel truck was stolen from in front of our home this morning. Near Morgan and 38th Avenue. License plate D27510A. Police case # 24-110012.

ABANDONED-PROBABLY-STOLEN BIKE: From Mark:

We found an abandoned bike in our alley near Solstice Park, I would guess stolen but looks to have been used hard recently as both tires are now flat. If there is an owner out there, would love for them to get it back.

If it’s yours, contact us and we’ll connect you.

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FOLLOWUP: Somebody drove it in. But nobody knows how to get it out.

| Environment | West Seattle beaches | West Seattle news

(Friday photo, sent by Craig)

Back on Friday night, we reported on that Jeep Compass that turned up on a rocky stretch of shore in southwesternmost West Seattle, between the dead-ends of Seola Lane and Arroyo Beach Place [map]. Last night, via an update from tipster Craig, we learned it’s still there. We asked Seattle Police why. Thanks to Officer Brian Pritchard for giving us an update via reports that tell a tangled tale. In short, Seattle Police, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the Department of Ecology have all been to the site, and private salvagers have been consulted, but no one has been able to figure out how to get the vehicle out, via land or sea, either towing it out, pulling it out, or even floating it out. So far, the only major action taken is that Ecology removed the fuel that was in the SUV’s gas tank.

(Monday photo, sent by Craig)

So what about the person who owns it? Apparently that’s not the person who showed up on a nearby resident’s doorstep asking for a ride early Friday. Police say they’ve spoken to the resident and they weren’t aware the vehicle was on the beach at the time. The vehicle wasn’t reported stolen, Officer Pritchard just told us, until a short time ago, when its owner contacted police to tell them her vehicle had been taken while she was visiting friends last Thursday in North Seattle. So it might be her responsibility – or her insurer – to figure out how to get it off the beach. We’ll continue following up.

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Parks Board to hear presentation on ‘pickleball and tennis vision’ Thursday

April 23, 2024 12:55 pm

| 5 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

Just received the agenda for the next meeting of the Seattle Board of Parks and Recreation Commissioners, and it includes one item of potential West Seattle interest – a presentation on the department’s “pickleball and tennis vision.” A proposal to convert a former Lincoln Park tennis court into pickleball courts sparked a significant amount of controversy last year, and the department has yet to officially update its status. The last Parks official to address the plan at a West Seattle meeting, deputy superintendent Andy Sheffer, is listed as co-presenting the briefing; we don’t yet know if it will include specifics on locations or will be just a policy overview. It’s on the agenda for 6:30 pm Thursday (April 25); the board meets in-person at Parks HQ downtown, and you can also attend online – info is in our calendar listing.

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VIDEO: West Seattle High School students join statewide pro-Palestinian walkout

April 23, 2024 11:08 am

| 54 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle protests | West Seattle schools

11:08 AM: That was the scene a short time ago outside the north side of West Seattle High School as more than 50 students gathered for what social-media announcements declared as a statewide student walkout supporting Palestinians affected by the Hamas-Israel war, now in its seventh month. They headed out to California SW shortly thereafter, walking south. We have not heard of any other schools in West Seattle participating.

11:32 AM: Walking off campus, the group crossed California and passed the McDonald’s across the street, chanting an accusation that the company supports genocide, a disputed allegation that has circulated on social media. (Video added above.) Our photographer has moved on but we just heard an FYI on police radio that the group is continuing southbound toward The Junction.

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14 options for your West Seattle Tuesday

April 23, 2024 9:54 am

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | WS miscellaneous

(Monday morning moonset, photographed by James Tilley)

Here’s what’s happening today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:

EXPANDED FAUNTLEROY YMCA HOURS: Fourth week of the Fauntleroy YMCA (WSB sponsor) operating its newly expanded hours – 9 am to noon and 4 pm to 7 pm, Mondays through Thursdays. Classes have been added, too.

FREE PLAYSPACE: Drop in Tuesday mornings until noon at West Seattle Church of the Nazarene (42nd/Juneau).

KNIFE SHARPENING POP-UP: As previewed here, by-hand sharpener Kneighborhood Knives is popping up at Hotwire Coffee (4410 California SW) until 4 pm, $10 per knife.

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE: Could derelict buildings get demolished sooner? That’s one of the issues on the agenda for the City Council Public Safety Committee meeting that began at 9:30 am. Watch live here.

CHESS CLUB: Tuesdays 1:30-3 pm at the Senior Center of West Seattle (4217 SW Oregon). All levels welcome. (Questions? Email conwell@conwelld.net.)

CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Regular weekly meeting of the Seattle City Council, 2 pm. There is a public-comment section – in person or by phone – if there’s something you want to tell the council. The agenda explains how. You can watch live via Seattle Channel.

DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving demonstration continues at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t have your own.

FREE INTRODUCTORY ASL CLASSES: New series continues, 6 pm at the West Seattle Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (4001 44th SW), info here.

SCRABBLE NIGHT: 6-10 pm tonight, play Scrabble at The Missing Piece (9456 35th SW).

FREE TRACK RUN: Run with your neighbors! Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for this free weekly run at 6:15 pm.

MAKE POTTERY: 6:30-9 pm “girls’ night” at pottery studio The Clay Cauldron (5214 Delridge Way SW), sign up in advance to work on your project(s).

BINGO AT THE SKYLARK: Play – free! – Belle of the Balls Bingo hosted by Cookie Couture, 7 pm Tuesdays. (3803 Delridge Way SW)

TRIVIA X 4: Four places to play Tuesday nights – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW) has Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free and hosted by Beat the Geek Trivia; 7 pm at Zeeks Pizza West Seattle (6459 California SW), hosted by Geeks Who Drink; 7 pm at Admiral Pub (2306 California SW).

BINGO AT TALARICO’S: You can play 8 pm bingo every Tuesday. (4718 California SW)

What are YOU planning? Are community members invited? Tell everyone via our event calendar – please email the info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!

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BRIGHTEN THE JUNCTION! Flower baskets arrive next week. Still time to ‘adopt’ one

April 23, 2024 9:00 am

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| How to help | West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

(WSB photo, 2023)

The bright and beautiful season of hanging flower baskets in the West Seattle Junction is about to begin – the baskets arrive next Monday, according to West Seattle Junction Association executive director Chris Mackay. For a second year, you’ll see bigger, reusable baskets that use less water. And community members are helping cover the costs again this year by “adopting” baskets; Chris tells WSB that about 20 of this year’s 95 baskets are still awaiting “adopters.” For $189, you’ll be adopting a basket for the entire season, including a plaque displaying your name and message; that counts as a donation to the Junction Association, the nonprofit that’s not only the merchants’ association but also the engine that powers Junction events including West Seattle Summer Fest (happening July 12-14 this year). To adopt a basket (or two!), just go here.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Tuesday info and alerts, plus low-bridge closure, day 4

April 23, 2024 6:03 am

| 5 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Tuesday, April 23.

LOW-BRIDGE CLOSURE

The West Seattle low bridge is closed for a fourth day, expected to reopen by next Monday morning; here’s SDOT info about the closure, including how to get free bus or Water Taxi trips.

ROAD-WORK ALERTS

*As previewed here, the westbound West Seattle Bridge’s off-ramp to Admiral Way will be closed around 9:30 am for urgent tree work. (Update: SDOT says the ramp should reopen by 3 pm.)

*SDOT confirms that the Delridge pedestrian-bridge earthquake-safety project is now fully under way at Delridge/Oregon.

Delridge will be narrowed to two lanes through the work zone for the duration of the project – up to one year.

*Final work on the permanent Highland Park Way/Holden signal is under way, as previewed here.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Mostly sunny, high near 70. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:04 am, sunset at 8:11 pm.

TRANSIT NOTES

Metro today – Regular schedule; check 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 – The usual 2 boats on the Triangle Route. Check WSF alerts for last-minute changes. Use the real-time map to see where your ferry is.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Orchard), cameras are also at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, Delridge/Oregon, and video-only (so you have to go to the map), Delridge/Holden and Delridge/Thistle.

High Bridge – the main camera:

High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (when SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way):

1st Ave. S. Bridge:

Highway 99: – northbound side at Lander:

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!

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Will more vacant ‘derelict’ properties get demolished? City Council discussion this morning

April 23, 2024 2:18 am

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| West Seattle news | West Seattle politics

Beyond that map, the city won’t get any more specific about which vacant “derelict” properties could get speedier demolition approval if a proposal from Mayor Bruce Harrell gets City Council approval. Its first official discussion is this (Tuesday) morning, when the council’s Public Safety Committee meets. In the announcement of the “emergency” legislation, the mayor’s office said that there’ve been 30 fires in vacant buildings this year as of last Monday, adding:

SFD has identified over 40 vacant buildings in the city that are potentially impacted by this legislation and estimates that up to 10 properties may be addressed by this legislation each year. Depending on the degree of damage, the size of the building, the construction type and materials, the presence of asbestos, and other site-specific conditions, fencing and demolition costs will vary significantly. Property owners will be responsible for work to make the building or property site safe. In extreme cases, the City will be authorized to do the necessary abatement work and then place a title lien on the property to recover costs.

So which buildings are they talking about? We asked on Friday and got this response today from SFD spokesperson Kristin Hanson, to whom the mayor’s office forwarded our request:

There is not a public database that lists which properties are on SFD’s dangerous/derelict buildings list. SFD has a list that we use internally as we work with the Law Department to determine enforcement activities. Buildings on the SFD list are flagged derelict for multiple reasons to include structural issues, history of illegal or unauthorized entry, damage to the exterior that may have allowed further structural compromise due to exposure to winds and rain, and other similar reasons. SFD’s list is a subset of the Vacant Building Monitoring List, which is managed by SDCI.

If you want to check on whether a particular vacant property is being monitored by the city, you can check the address in the Seattle Services Portal. Meantime, you can watch this morning’s 9:30 am meeting via Seattle Channel; here’s the agenda, which also explains how to comment. This is one in a long line of city attempts to deal with the problem of vacant properties; we’ve covered several dating back 15 years, including expansion of the monitoring program five years ago.

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UPDATE: 81-year-old man killed by hit-run driver at Roxbury/15th

April 22, 2024 10:20 pm

| 3 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

(Updated screengrab from nearest SDOT traffic camera, looking east toward scene)

10:20 PM: According to SPD radio, King County Sheriff’s Office deputies are closing Roxbury at 15th, after a collision reported as a driver hitting a pedestrian – reportedly a hit-run with life-threatening injuries. The driver was last seen heading eastbound on Roxbury. One officer says a witness believes the vehicle was a gray Mazda SUV.

10:38 PM: SFD medics are taking the victim to Harborview.

11 PM: Roxbury has reopened. We have followup inquiries out but may not hear back until tomorrow morning.

8:30 AM TUESDAY: SFD says the victim is an 81-year-old man who was in critical condition when transported.

10:56 AM: KCSO tells us the victim has died, and a spokesperson adds, “Preliminary investigation says the suspect vehicle was a silver SUV, possibly a Mazda. The vehicle would have front-end damage to the grill and hood area.” They are hoping to get more information about the suspect out later today in hopes of public help in tracking them down.

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Don’t toss your dull knife – sharpen it! West Seattle pop-up Tuesday

April 22, 2024 8:22 pm

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle businesses | West Seattle news

That’s Genevieve, who rejuvenates knives by “traditional hand-sharpening on whetstones.” As listed in the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, she’s having a pop-up tomorrow (Tuesday, April 23) at Hotwire Coffee (4410 California SW), 9 am-4 pm. $10 per knife. Here’s the FAQ on her Kneighborhood Knives website, in case you have a question before just showing up.

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TRAFFIC ALERT: Westbound West Seattle Bridge offramp closure Tuesday

April 22, 2024 6:36 pm

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

ORIGINAL MONDAY ANNOUNCEMENT: We received this Tuesday traffic alert from SDOT late today:

Tomorrow morning, the Seattle Department of Transportation’s urban forestry and signs and markings teams will be closing the westbound off-ramp to SW Admiral Way from the West Seattle High Bridge at around 9:30 a.m. This closure is necessary due to a broken limb that requires removal, although our team has already stabilized it earlier today.

Detour signage will be in place to guide drivers to SW Admiral Way. The designated detour route is as follows: continue on the West Seattle High Bridge onto Fauntleroy Way SW. Then, turn right onto SW Oregon St, followed by another right onto California Ave SW, which will lead you to SW Admiral Way.

They’re not sure yet how long the work will take.

TUESDAY MORNING UPDATE: SDOT says the ramp should reopen by 3 pm.

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From the ‘other’ Healthy Street to hope for ‘The Hum,’ updates from HPAC’s April meeting invitation

April 22, 2024 6:22 pm

| 7 COMMENTS

| Delridge | Highland Park | Neighborhoods | West Seattle news

We’ve published recent updates on the Alki Point and High Point “Healthy Streets” – so what’s up with the other one SDOT set up in West Seattle, the Delridge/Highland Park “Healthy Street”? That’ll be a central topic at this Wednesday’s HPAC meeting. HPAC’s announcement also includes an update from the resident who was sleuthing the return of “The Hum” as discussed at a previous meeting:

As folks are starting to get out and about, gearing up for spring and summer walking and rolling, SDOT will be our guest this month to talk about the future for the Delridge/Highland Park Healthy Street network. All users of the routes in question are welcome, regardless of where you live.

These routes were put in place during the pandemic to broaden access to safe outdoor spaces. Most often they were installed along existing or planned Neighborhood Greenways. Streets being considered for changes include portions of 21st Ave SW, 15th Ave SW, 17th Ave SW, 11th Ave SW, SW Webster and SW Trenton, noted in dashed purple lines on this map.

We understand that Planners want to hear:

-What part of the network should be kept and improved?
-What kind of barriers, amenities and signage are preferred?
-What part(s) should return to general usage?

We will also expect to have Seattle Police Department representatives on hand to answer community questions and hear any concerns.

Look forward to seeing folks in person!

General announcements:

Just in!! We have an Update on “The HUMM.” From concerned resident Matthew H, who has been leading outreach on this quality of life issue:

“I’ve been in touch with CalPortland and they conceded their industrial vacuums are creating noise. The mufflers they installed wore out faster than they thought they would. They assured me that the new mufflers would be installed by the end of the month.”

For those not aware, or new to the area. These huge vacuums are used by the concrete supply companies along the Duwamish Waterway to unload powdered materials shipped here to use in their products. Hopefully they are able to get these repaired shortly as promised!

That turned out to be the source of the sound back when we covered community advocates’ quest to figure out the same problem more than a decade ago, and as we’ve told people more recently, the sporadic reports of its return have usually coincided with a dry-cargo ship being in port on the river. Meantime, HPAC’s meeting starts at 6:30 pm Wednesday (April 24) at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).

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WHALE SIGHTING: In Elliott Bay

April 22, 2024 5:00 pm

| 14 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | Whales

A gray whale is feeding close to shore off Alki. Kersti Muul says it’s about 100 feet out off the 1700 block of Alki Avenue SW right now and was close in off the west end of Alki earlier.

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‘Dynamic and inclusive’ bike park for West Seattle? New group ready to roll

April 22, 2024 3:18 pm

| 97 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle parks

(Images provided by Friends of West Seattle Bike Park. Above, possible location off 35th south of Alaska)

Could that strip of city-owned land south of Rotary Viewpoint Park (35th/Alaska) be transformed into West Seattle’s first bike-skills park? Or another location? The new group Friends of West Seattle Bike Park says it’s something missing and needed on our peninsula, and wants you to know what they’re advocating for, as well as how you can join in:

Skills parks for bikes promote healthy lifestyles, are increasingly popular with people of all ages and abilities, and are currently a long drive from West Seattle.

Friends of West Seattle Bike Park (FOWSBP) is proposing the establishment of a modest public bike-skills park in West Seattle. This park will serve as an inclusive community hub for cyclists and other wheeled adventurers of all ages and skill levels, providing a safe and accessible environment for outdoor adventure and community building.

Objective

The primary objective of the proposed skills park is to create a dynamic and inclusive space where individuals and families can experience the thrill of mountain biking, BMXing, dirt jumping, one-wheeling and ADA-accessible biking/wheeling, while promoting physical activity, outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and community building. Additionally, the park aims to foster a sense of community among cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, promoting social interaction and camaraderie. We are committed to utilizing the diverse skills, talents, and resources of West Seattle residents towards the creation of more than just a recreational area – we are building a symbol of community collaboration and pride.

Facility Features

The bike skills park is envisioned to feature a variety of trails and amenities designed to accommodate riders of all ages and abilities. Key conceptual features of the park include:

(Dirt pump track in Baltimore)

Pump Track: A loop that consists of a series of rollers and berms. The “pump” part is the pushing-down and pulling-up action performed by riders in accordance with the structure’s design as the main source of propulsion. It’s a thrilling experience because users experience an up-and-down feeling of weightlessness, similar to the drops and climbs in a roller-coaster, but on a micro-level.

(Paved pump track in Port Angeles)

Pump tracks are designed this way so they can be ridden completely without the need for pushing and pedaling and a great avenue for new riders to learn how to ride a bike. The pump track will include design elements making it ADA-accessible.

Skills Area: A designated skills area equipped with features such as rock gardens, boulders and skinnys to help riders develop and improve their biking skills in a controlled environment.

Jump Lines: A diverse network of three to five trails catering to beginner, intermediate, and advanced riders. Trails will vary in difficulty and terrain, offering a range of experiences from gently sloping, rollable table tops to large steep-faced jumps. The trails will be designed to allow riders to progress safely and confidently as their skills develop and be ADA-accessible where possible. These trails will also allow for the general public to observe and rally behind the aerial capabilities of some very talented West Seattle-based riders!

Amenities: The envisioned park design includes amenities such as picnic tables, a drinking fountain and a tool stand to enhance the overall visitor experience and encourage prolonged stays.

Safety Measures: Safety is a top priority, and the park will implement well proven design measures that allow riders to push themselves as much as desired, in a controlled environment.

Community Engagement

Community engagement and involvement will be integral to the success of the bike skills park. To foster a sense of ownership and pride among West Seattle residents, the park will offer opportunities for volunteerism, educational programs, events, and workshops focused on biking skills, trail stewardship, and environmental conservation.

Partnerships

The establishment and operation of the bike skills park will require collaboration with various stakeholders, including local government agencies, cycling organizations, environmental groups, community members, and local businesses. Partnerships will be sought to secure funding, resources, expertise, and ongoing support for the development and maintenance of the park.

The establishment of a public bike-skills park in West Seattle presents an exciting opportunity to create a vibrant yet modest outdoor recreational area that promotes health, wellness, and community engagement. With careful planning, collaboration, and investment, we can realize the vision of a unique facility that enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike. We look forward to working with stakeholders to bring this vision to fruition and create lasting memories for generations to come.

In the coming weeks, FOWSBP will launch a website which will serve as a centralized location for community members to stay updated on project happenings, submit feedback on project design and location, and provide a schedule of times and locations for public meetings.

Being that FOWSBP is still very much in its infancy, we are looking for volunteers interested in supporting this effort. Immediate needs are folks that can write grant proposals/navigate the grant seeking process, are familiar with web design, and those that can produce conceptual renderings of skills park designs. Please send an email to friendsofwestseattlebikepark@gmail.com if you would like to be part of this amazing project!

For more information on pump tracks, please explore the links below:

Bermstyle – Guide to pump tracks
Port Angeles Pump Track Grand Opening

The new group says they’ve already had a preliminary discussion with Parks about the possible location shown atop this story but it’s very early and they’re truly interested in feedback about the site and the overall idea.

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TONIGHT: ‘Common Ground’ film screening for Earth Day

April 22, 2024 2:30 pm

| 0 COMMENTS

| Environment | West Seattle news

Breaking news kept us from publishing our daily event list today – you can always preview what’s up for the hours/days/weeks ahead by checking the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar, to which we add new listings every day. But we do want to take a moment to mention the lone one-time-only event on the calendar tonight – an Earth Day screening of the film previewed above, the documentary “Common Ground.” All are welcome to the screening at 7 pm in Our Lady of Guadalupe‘s Pastoral Center (northeast corner of 35th/Myrtle). Organizers say, “Common Ground was a winner at multiple film festivals, including the Tribeca Festival, and provides hope for future generations, with concrete ways to fix a broken planetary system.”

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BASEBALL: Chief Sealth IHS Senior Night tonight after ‘Best in the West’ win vs. WSHS

April 22, 2024 12:56 pm

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle schools | WS & Sports

(Photos courtesy CSIHS Athletics)

Tonight is Senior Night for Chief Sealth International High School‘s baseball team, playing Cleveland at 7 pm at Nino Cantu Southwest Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle). The players in the photo above are seniors Noah Tewolde, Gavin Brown, and Isaac Martinez, and as CSIHS athletic director Ernest Policarpio recounts below, the team scored this year’s “Best in the West” crosstown-rivalry win over West Seattle High School on Friday night:

Both teams were strong on the mound on Friday, but Chief Sealth defeated West Seattle Varsity Wildcats 2-1.

Isaac Martinez started on the bump for Chief Sealth. The starting pitcher gave up four hits and one run over five innings, striking out six and walking five. Nevin Pivar threw two innings of no-run ball for Chief Sealth in reliefl he gave up three hits, walking two.

Miles Chandler led things off on the hill for West Seattle, He gave up four hits and two runs over six innings, striking out 10 and walking three.

Chief Sealth got on the board in the first inning after Teo Perala singled, scoring one run. Clay Pecore singled, which helped West Seattle tie the game at one in the top of the second.

Chief Sealth didn’t take the lead until later in the game. The game was tied at one in the bottom of the sixth when Miles Chandler induced Marko Woefle to hit into a fielder’s choice, but one run scored.

Teo Perala and Marko Woefle each drove in one run for Chief Sealth; Brady Murphy went 2-for-2 at the plate to lead Chief Sealth.

West Seattle’s Matthew Hazlegrove made the most of his chances at the plate; he led the team with three hits in four at bats. Clay Pecore went 2-for-3 at the plate as the infielder led the team with one run batted in.

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FOLLOWUP: Alki Point Healthy Street construction about to start, SDOT announces

April 22, 2024 11:07 am

| 69 COMMENTS

| Transportation | West Seattle news

(Constellation Park section of Alki Point Healthy Street, February)

When SDOT reiterated one month ago that it would build the permanent features of the Alki Point Healthy Street – both Beach Drive and Alki Avenue SW, west of 63rd SW to the point – the construction schedule was still pending.

(Rendering of design for Beach Drive north/west of 64th)

This morning, they’ve announced via email that work is imminent:

We are excited to share an update that last week crews marked the five new speed hump locations. As soon as this week, they will start construction of the permanent treatments for the Alki Point Healthy Street. This work will include:

-Removing two speed humps and installing five new speed humps
-Marking for the new street layout, pavement markings, and sign locations

Once the new speed humps have cured, crews will install:

-A 10-foot-wide shared walking/rolling space
-Three ADA parking spaces
-Stop controls at intersecting streets
-Pavement markings, parking signs, and striping the public parking lot

Unauthorized on-street parking located within 20 feet of intersections will be removed for new installation. Please visit the project webpage for more information on design elements.

SDOT originally announced those design elements last December, more than a year after saying the “Healthy Street” would be made permanent. It was originally designated a “Stay Healthy Street” in the early months of the pandemic, starting with the Beach Drive stretch – which had long been the source of resident complaints about driver gatherings – and quickly expanding to add the Alki Avenue stretch. More recently, the final parking-removal plans for the project sparked a new round of opposition, but the plan apparently is proceeding unmodified.

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UPDATE: Car-on-side crash west of West Seattle Junction; driver arrested for investigation of DUI

April 22, 2024 9:46 am

| 23 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

9:46 AM: Now a Seattle Fire “rescue extrication” response is on the way to the 4700 block of 45th SW for what’s reported as a car-on-side crash. Updates to come.

(Added: WSB photo)

9:49 AM: SFD crews are arriving and report “all occupants are out” of what police tell dispatch is a “minivan.” The response is being downsized.

10:04 AM: Our photographer just arrived; photo added above. No serious injuries, we’re told; a woman and child got out of the van. (added) Police tell us the van went on its side after hitting this parked pickup truck:

(added) Thanks to Guy for this photo of the scene:

2:54 PM: Police confirm what a commenter below first reported – that the woman driving the minivan was arrested on suspicion of DUI and reckless endangerment and booked into King County Jail. They also confirm that two children were in the minivan at the time of the crash and that both were taken to the Southwest Precinct, but had no information beyond that.

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UPDATE: Flipped-car crash on Delridge Way

April 22, 2024 9:08 am

| 7 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

9:08 AM: As noted briefly in our morning traffic roundup, that flipped car is blocking Delridge Way SW near Elmgrove. Our photographer just arrived at the scene and reports a tow truck is arriving. Unlike many flipped-car crashes, this one did not initially draw a major “rescue”-type SFD response, and the one engine that was sent was dismissed quickly, which indicates no major injuries.

9:11 AM: We talked briefly with police, who told us the driver fled the scene, after hitting a parked car and flipping this one. They hope to have the street reopened within 20 minutes or so.

9:22 AM: Reopened.

9:40 AM: Listening back to the original dispatch audio, two people were in the car and both bolted. No initial description other than “black clothing.” When the officer checked on the status of its plates, it came back “clear” – no theft reported – but expired.

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TRAFFIC, TRANSIT, WEATHER: Monday info; day 3 of low-bridge closure

April 22, 2024 6:00 am

| 0 COMMENTS

| West Seattle news | West Seattle traffic alerts

8:45 AM: Thanks for the tip. Flipped-car crash is blocking Delridge both ways at Elmgrove. Separate update to come.

Earlier:

6:00 AM: Good morning! It’s Monday, April 22.

LOW-BRIDGE CLOSURE

The West Seattle low bridge is closed for a third day, due to reopen by next Monday morning; here’s SDOT info about the closure, including how to get free bus or Water Taxi trips.

ROAD-WORK ALERTS

*As previewed here, final work on the Highland Park Way/Holden signal is expected to start today.

*Work at the Delridge/Oregon intersection has narrowed it to one lane each way.

WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET TIMES

Sunny, high near 60. Today’s sunrise will be at 6:06 am, sunset at 8:09 pm.

TRANSIT NOTES

Metro today – Regular schedule; check 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 – The usual 2 boats on the Triangle Route. Check WSF alerts for last-minute changes. Use the real-time map to see where your ferry is.

SPOTLIGHT TRAFFIC CAMERAS

Delridge cameras: Besides the one below (Delridge/Orchard), cameras are also at Delridge/Genesee, Delridge/Juneau, Delridge/Henderson, and Delridge/Oregon.

High Bridge – the main camera:

High Bridge – the view from its southwest end (when SDOT points the 35th/Avalon/Fauntleroy camera that way):

1st Ave. S. Bridge:

Highway 99: – northbound side at Lander:

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.

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West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2024 update, with registration deadline approaching

April 21, 2024 10:24 pm

| 2 COMMENTS

| Community Garage Sale Day | West Seattle news

“We’re downsizing to a motor home to travel the country, so everything must go!” one West Seattle Community Garage Sale Day 2024 seller explains. Another has clearly racked up some miles already, offering “Odd treasures from travels.” Yet another promises “no broken electric knives or Tupperware without lids here.” And another seller declares, “I am famous for my garage sales.” Lots of reasons, lots of promises, lots of merchandise in the 350+ sales listings we’ve received after three weeks of registration for WSCGSD, which is happening Saturday, May 11, 9 am-3 pm, all over West Seattle (and a bit beyond). If you plan to be a seller but haven’t registered yet, you have four more days – Thursday night (April 25) at 11:30 pm, we close the list so we can get busy making the map and guide, which will be ready a week before WSCGSD so shoppers can preview who has what and where. Maybe you’re looking for something specific, or maybe you just want to see who’s hosting a sale in your neighborhood so you can walk over to look. And if you’re one of those not-registered-yet-but-ready sellers, just go here!

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TRAFFIC ALERT: Highland Park Way/Holden signal work wraps up starting this week

April 21, 2024 7:57 pm

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| Highland Park | Safety | West Seattle news

(March 2020 photo)

Four years after the “temporary” signal went up at Highland Park Way/Holden, shortly after the West Seattle Bridge closure dramatically increased traffic there, the signal’s permanent replacement is almost complete. “Final steps” of the project start tomorrow, according to this advisory sent by SDOT:

We are on the final stretch of construction for the permanent traffic signal at the intersection of Highland Park Way SW and SW Holden St. Over the next few weeks, we will attach the traffic signal heads to the metal mast arms so they are no longer hanging from a wire.

After that, we will hang traffic cameras to monitor and adjust the signal in real-time and install traffic loops in the pavement on all four sides of the intersection so the signal can recognize when a person driving is waiting at the light. We will also activate the crosswalk button on the sidewalk, so people can request a signal change when they need to walk across the street.

All of these steps will improve traffic signal timing for people who are driving, while providing signalized crossings for people who are walking.

When

This work is scheduled from April 22 – May 10, though that could shift based on weather and crew availability. Our work hours are from 7 AM – 4 PM.

What to Expect

Alternating traffic lanes will be closed during some of this work, but there will always be one lane open for cars to get through. There will also be temporary sidewalk closures and detour routes for people walking. This is not particularly noisy work, but if you live or work in the area, you may hear construction equipment running and some beeping when crews back up equipment.

The signal is the centerpiece of a wider safety project at the intersection following years of community advocacy for improvements.

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WEST SEATTLE BIRDS: 9 new views, and 1 way to help the ones that are migrating

April 21, 2024 5:27 pm

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| West Seattle news | Wildlife

Spring means migration time for some birds, so West Seattle bird-watchers might see seasonal sights, as shown in some of the reader photos we’re spotlighting today. Above are Bonaparte’s Gulls at Constellation Park, photographed by David Hutchinson, who says that’s also where he saw these Brant in flight:

Constellation’s a hotspot for bird viewing – that’s where Jamie Kinney photographed shorebirds including Dunlins and Black Turnstones:

That’s also where Emily Carlston saw this Black Oystercatcher in flight:

Jack Block Park is where Steve Bender photographed these Canada Geese:

At Don Armeni Boat Ramp, Robin Sinner photographed a Heermann’s Gull:

Robin also sent this photo of a White-crowned Sparrow:

In Schmitz Preserve Park, Tony Tschanz happened onto a Crow in the process of construction:

And we conclude with another photo from the Admiral area – John Keatley explains that this Barred Owl “seems to be living in the cedar tree in our backyard. It has been quite active this past week, and we just saw it resting on our shed roof.”

Huge thanks again to everyone who sends bird (and other) photos, which we feature not only in galleries like this but also with some of our daily event lists – westseattleblog@gmail.com – and we also appreciate other information, such as Kersti Muul‘s reminder that it’s “Lights Out“ time to be kind to birds in flight – look how many!

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