West Seattle, Washington
13 Thursday
(WSB photos)
By Torin Record-Sand
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
More than forty people came to small section of SW Lander Street west of California SW last night – between local businesses The Good Society and Seattle Yarn, and neighboring Lafayette Elementary – for an SDOT-convened “community design charrette.”
It offered a preview of what the street might look like in the near future, as the purpose of the gathering was for city officials to get feedback about their plans to close the street to vehicle traffic and turn it into a “People Street” within a year.
SDOT closed the small section of SW Lander for the evening, bringing together city reps and associated consultants and designers with community members to talk in-person about the best way to implement changes, and what they might like to see from the project.
The project is a part of the city’s People Streets and Public Spaces Capital Program, which seeks to transform various streets across the city into miniature public parks. Traffic is blocked off, and the designated area is transformed with various architectural improvements and amenities to encourage community gathering and engagement. This site, on SW Lander, is one of two in West Seattle that are currently part of the program; we’ve previously covered the other proposed project, on 18th Avenue SW, between Delridge Way and Southwest Barton (which also had a recent meeting). The city says its goal is to transform SW Lander into public space offering cleaner air as well as an overall sense of safety and security for students.
The meetings for both sites aimed at a very preliminary stage of the process, akin loosely to ‘brainstorming’ with the community in a more free-form atmosphere. No concrete designs were presented; instead, community members were asked to write sticky notes on poster boards asking for feedback on things such as desired features, and put stickers on stock photo ‘mood boards’ representing which features or visuals they would find the most appealing.
The feedback will be used by the city as an initial step before they begin a more formal design processs. Beyond the feedback process, other light activities were available for attendees as well, such as over-sized street board games and coloring books for kids; refreshments were also available, featuring fruit empanadas from the Salvadorean Bakery in White Center.
Despite the festival atmosphere, the project proposal did not come without controversy. In addition to what was provided by the city, some community members brought some of their own boards and posters to protest the proposed project. One board offered two sign-up lists, asking attendees to pick a side: “Yes, close Lander Street” or “No street closure”. The latter choice had garnered around 10 signatures already by 15 minutes into the gathering, while the former had no signatures at all in the early going.
Another poster stapled to a local telephone pole called for neighbors to attend, framing the project as the city cutting off street access to California Avenue.
Words from attendees who spoke to us did not show much more positivity for the project either. “Well, this whole thing sucks!” said one of the attendees, an Admiral resident. “Congestion here is bad, and getting worse. Where are all the parents going to go to pick up their kids? […] The city is doing too much with too little, and too many people.”
People from local businesses and buildings in the block came to share their opinion too. Paul Cesmat, owner of the nearby Admiral Station apartments, came, also delivering a letter to city representatives from the owner of Financial Designs Insurance (in the same block) in absentia. Both of them expressed that the city’s plan would be negligent at best, actively harmful at worst – making it more difficult for emergency vehicles to access the school and commercial block, and increasing traffic congestion for the school: “In my 49 years here, there has never, ever, been an incident with a kid,” Cesmat said. He also expressed frustration with the city’s communication strategy. “There was no real mail notification to the neighbors; just some stuff stapled on the poles.” he said. “Neighbors had to communicate with each other to encourage turnout.”
According to SDOT, there will be more chances for the community to provide feedback through the design process, though dates are yet to be announced. The formal design process will begin this fall, with finalization of a plan expected next winter (early 2027).
(WSB photos)
At last night’s Seattle Police community-safety meeting in West Seattle (report to come), Southwest Precinct commander Capt. Krista Bair alluded briefly to multiple local encampment clearances this week. One of them is under way right now. Thanks to a tip from Jon, we got over to the Delridge Home Depot area in time for these photos of city crews at the notorious encampment west of the store.
This encampment has been the site of problems including multiple fires. It’s on land that the King County Parcel Viewer shows is owned by the city.
We have a message out to the city seeking information about today’s operation.
The report and photo are out of the WSB inbox this morning:
Red ‘Giant’ brand bike found at the sheltered bus stop on the corner of 35th and Thistle the morning of August 13th 2026
email backstagebob2026@gmail
(We archive all found-bike reports here.)
Welcome to today’s edition of our daily list of what’s up around West Seattle, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – thanks to everyone who sends events for us to share!):
SUMMER FOOD FOR KIDS: Local sites are open – see our story for locations and other information.
(Look for floats like this – photo provided by WS Chamber of Commerce)
WEST SEATTLE GLASS FLOAT HUNT, DAY 7 As noted here pre-hunt, no daily clues this year unless a float remains stubbornly unfound (and there HAVE been some clues as a result) – watch for the hand-blown floats all over West Seattle. As of midmorning today, 92 floats have been released and 58 have been found, according to the official website, which shows status when floats are found (provided the finder has used the special QR code). P.S. The floats were made by Avalon Glassworks before their retirement closure; the float hunt is co-presented by the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce and West Seattle Junction Association.
GIVE THE GIFT OF LIFE: Blood drive today at Bethany Community Church (8600 9th SW), 10 am-3 pm.
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: 10 am-3 pm, plant sales featuring and supporting students’ work. North end of SSC campus (6000 16th SW).
SPRAYPARK SEASON CONTINUES: Daily splashing season continues at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
SWIMMING POOL’S OPEN: Daily operations also continue at Colman Pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm.
WADING POOLS: The regular three Thursday pools will be open today – Lincoln Park (noon-7 pm, 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), Delridge (4501 Delridge Way SW) and Hiawatha (noon-5:30 pm, 2700 California SW).
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!)
NOURISHING MINDS: 1 pm service-learning opportunity at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
DROP-IN CHESS: The regular High Point Library Thursday event is sheduled today – youth under 18 can drop in 4-5:30 pm to play. (3411 SW Raymond)
HPCS FOOD-TRUCK VISIT: First of two Thursday night events at HPCS – this week and every Thursday, 4-8 pm, Highland Park Corner Store (7789 Highland Park Way SW) hosts a food truck. Tonight it’s Spice Waala.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
WEST SEATTLE ART WALK: Second Thursdays, venues all over the peninsula are hosting artists; some have food and drink specials too. Here’s the interactive map – click a venue to see what’s happening there. Here are two locations that have sent us listings to make sure you know they’re participating this month:
–West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW) – Marcia Bruno‘s vintage jewelry!
–Zelda Zonk (2210 California SW)
Art Walk hours at most participating venues are 5 pm-8 pm.
HELP HARVEST FOOD: Puget Ridge Edible Park (18th/Brandon) needs volunteers to help harvest fresh food that will be donated to food banks – 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. Also stop in for tonight’s Art Walk, featuring the West Seattle Art Tour preview.
WORDS, WRITERS, SOUTHWEST STORIES: 6 pm online speaker series presented by the Southwest Seattle Historical Society, this month featuring Edward Echtle on “Southeast Asian Refugees Finding Home in Washington.” Our calendar listing has details as well as the registration link.
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, with a track-workout alternative.
DUSTY THURSDAYS AT TIM’S: 6-9 pm, The Dusty 45s preceded by Carrie Clark and the Lonesome Lovers, outdoors, all ages, no cover, donations accepted for the musicians. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
TRIVIA AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7 pm trivia at Admiral Pub. (2306 California SW)
TRIVIA AT THE VOID: 7:30 pm, with prizes, at The Void (5048 California SW).
AT REVELRY ROOM: Tonight, at Revelry Room (4547 California SW) featuring DJ Supreme La Rock starting at 8 pm.
KARAOKE AT MAX’S TRIANGLE PUB: 9 pm to closing time, time tosing! (9454 Delridge Way SW)
LATE-NIGHT LISTENING PARTY AT EASY STREET: 11:30 pm, hear the new release by Phoebe Bridgers, free, all ages. (4559 California SW)
Planning an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily preview list? Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
The recent major earthquakes in Colombia and Venezuela have provided another reminder that one COULD happen here – so preparedness is vital. This Saturday in Morgan Junction, you can help eighborhood volunteers from all over West Seattle be ready by joining in a drill that’s linked to others citywide. Here’s the full explanation:
Imagine a magnitude 6.8 deep earthquake shakes Seattle during business hours (like the 2001 Nisqually Earthquake). More than 200 buildings are damaged and landslides are widespread. Residents are also dealing with hazardous material spills, several large fires, multiple breaks in water and sewer lines, and much of the city is without power. Volunteers from Seattle’s Emergency Hubs respond within hours; they meet up in their neighborhood gathering spot, pull out their gear, and start organizing neighbors.
The scenario above is what Hub volunteers train for but we need the public to help us test our skills. Show up at the following location [West Seattle is one of four citywide] and help us practice matching haves and needs within the community. Experience how neighbors can work together.
Saturday, August 15, from 10 am to 2 pm
Morgan Junction Park
6401 California Ave SWThe public is invited … to learn about the Hubs, to think about their personal preparations for a disaster, and to assist Hubs volunteers in putting their skills to work. “Please stop by. We can’t be sure our system will hold up in a real disaster without involvement from the public. Plus, we’re confident you’ll leave feeling better prepared to take care of your household and your community.” said Ann Forest, exercise coordinator.
The Seattle Emergency Hubs are a grassroots organization dating back to 2008; Hubs gather and share information and match needs and resources within the community in the event of a disaster. The Hubs are locations where neighbors and community members can gather to begin helping themselves before outside assistance arrives. Hubs are active in over 70 locations throughout the city of Seattle and they continue to grow and evolve. Visit seattleemergencyhubs.org for more information, including a map of Hub locations.
6:03 AM: Good morning. It’s Thursday, August 13, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast is for eventual sunshine and a high in the upper 70s. Sunrise was at 6:02 am today; sunset will be at 8:24 pm.
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule, but a stop closure downtown scheduled to conclude today affects multiple West Seattle-bound buses – the southbound 3rd/Columbia stop, for Routes 21 56, 57, and 125, plus RapidRide C and H. Details here; the stop is expected to reopen by tonight.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular summer schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedule Fridays and Saturdays.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the regular three-boat schedule; check the alert page for last-minute changes.
PREVIEW – WEEKEND CLOSURES
Reminders:
-Friday night overnight into Saturday morning, Highway 99 tunnel maintenance closure, both ways
-Early Saturday morning through late Sunday night, northbound First Ave. South Bridge repair closure
-All day Saturday, Alki Avenue SW closed between 57th and 61st SW for Alki Beach Pride
BRIDGE TRAFFIC CAMERAS
Here are four bridge views from the SDOT map:
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
See a problem 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!
8:32 PM: Thanks to Carol Ann Joyce for the photo of tonight’s smoke-red setting sun. We didn’t realize the smoke was returning until a yellow tinge took over the mid-afternoon light, and now suddenly, smoky murk. (We know everybody has a personal preference for maps and other tools to track all this; if you don’t, here’s a map showing the fires around the region.)
10:38 PM: Two photos to add – first, from David Hutchinson:
And from Steven Rice:
(WSB photo 7/23/26)
By Anne Higuera
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
Something is afoot on the second floor of the commercial building across the street from Don Armeni Boat Ramp that is known as Denali. A reader asked what is going on. We’ve been trying to get the full details for more than a month, but the short answer is that the space at 1315 Harbor Ave SW is apparently the new headquarters of Outdoor Research, the outdoor apparel and equipment company that had its headquarters and retail store on 1st Avenue South until the location there closed permanently earlier this year. The longer story and the details of the full move have yet to be shared by the company, but here’s what we know so far:
Outdoor Research posted an announcement on its website in June that West Seattle would soon be home to its corporate headquarters “with a move-in target of late summer 2026.” The announcement noted that a hard look at their old location caused them to move up a timeline for relocation. “The new West Seattle facility offers improved infrastructure for our workforce and a location deeply connected to the Pacific Northwest outdoor lifestyle. Additionally, Outdoor Research will relocate its Seattle flagship retail store to a more central, high-visibility location in the city center.” Neither location has been announced, and repeated calls and emails to OR have yielded no official response so far.
Looking into public records, an electrical permit for the location notes Outdoor Research as the owner of the Denali 2nd floor space, which leasing agent CBRE’s brochure is marketing at 7,916sf. But there’s no building permit yet, and presumably, some kind of tenant improvements will be necessary to accommodate corporate staff. One more tidbit is that office furniture and people have been visible through the windows from the street for a number of months, indicating that some staff is likely already working out of the space. In the meantime, OR’s only brick-and-mortar locations are their outlet stores in Bellingham and Des Moines.
Outdoor Research’s origin story, coincidentally, begins on Denali—the mountain—when, according to the OR website, their founder Ron Gregg had to turn back from summiting because gaiters worn by a fellow climber failed. His focus on creating a foolproof gaiter for mountaineering led to the founding of OR. Could it be it kismet that a company that started with Denali is moving into Denali? We’ll let you know when the folks from OR get back to us.
(WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
One year and nine months after a deliberately set fire tore through Camp Long‘s beloved century-old lodge, the rebuild is still years away – now projected for completion in 2032.
That’s part of what we learned this afternoon during a short tour with District 1 City Councilmember Rob Saka and two of the 34th District‘s state legislators this afternoon.
Seattle Parks deputy superintendent Andy Sheffer led the tour and provided the updates to Councilmember Saka, State Sen. Emily Alvarado, State Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon, and more than a half-dozen other state and city reps, including members of the elected officials’ staffs.
Sheffer explained that they’ve done some stabilization/preservation work to keep the lodge from completely falling apart during these years of disuse, with the help of ~$1 million insurance money. And the rebuild is in “pre-design.”
But the funding on hand is only enough to get them a third of the way through design, let alone cover the estimated $10 million cost of construction (and Sheffer said he suspects that’s the very low end of what it’ll cost – the rebuild will likely have to be “something better,” electrified and brought up to ADA standards, among other things).
The state legislators were there in hopes the city can get their support in pursuing about $700.000 in funding to for design. As for where the construction funding might be found, Sheffer said the next Seattle Park District funding cycle is one possibility, and they’re pursuing a variety of sources. Saka wondered if community funding via, for example, the Seattle Parks Foundation were an option, and Sheffer said, that too.
He also said that this remains of intense public interest – one of the leading inquiries they get from community members is, what’s up with the Camp Long Lodge? He briefly recounted its role in park uses from an event venue to a support facility for people using other parts of the park, like its rustic cabins, which are rented for camping and used during park festivals.
He noted that it’s not an official city landmark, but the rebuild will have to deal with features of “historic significance, such as “cobblestone masonry” and “heavy timber”:
WHAT’S NEXT: Besides the quest for funding, they will be starting design work and taking it as far as they can with what they have, so, Sheffer said, watch for community-engagement events early next year. They’ve hired a consultant to start the design work.
As part of the almost-complete Spokane Pump Station project in east Admiral, Seattle Public Utilities had sent an alert that they’d be running a high volume of water through the system yesterday and today. Readers wondered how they’d know it was definitely done and the risk of brown water was likely past (we had a few reports yesterdy and last night, though none so far today). We’ve just received word from SPU that the testing is done.
You’d have to closely contemplate the “Bank Day” mural on the north side of Chase at California/Oregon to realize what’s missing – a Nevada-shaped panel on its west edge is gone, showing a section of window instead. West Seattle Junction Association executive director Chris Mackay tells WSB that Chase had to remove the mural panel because of damage – not vandalism, but water damage. She’s talking with them about their plan for restoring it. This is one of the “Murals of West Seattle” commissioned and installed 30+ years ago; regional muralist Bob Henry did restoration work on it in 2020.
(This morning, SW Wildwood site where Maridee Bonadea died. WSB photos by Torin Record-Sand)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Two months after bicyclist Maridee Bonadea died on SW Wildwood Place a short distance uphill from the Fauntleroy ferry dock, SDOT reps promised last night that they’d initiate some changes within “a few weeks.”
The promise came during a public forum coordinated by the Fauntleroy Community Association, and while community members in attendance were glad to hear it, many said it wasn’t enough. Given that changes were recommended on this stretch of road at least six years ago – recommendations that went unheeded then – they urged the panel of city, state, and county officials to take proactive action elsewhere.
We recorded the entire forum, held at The Hall at Fauntleroy – here’s the video, followed by our summary:
The forum was moderated by FCA president Frank Immel and vice president Catherine Bailey:
Here’s the panel, with reps from SDOT, Washington State Ferries, Metro, Mayor Wilson’s office, and City Councilmember Rob Saka (who said he arrived late because of a marathon council meeting):
First to speak was Ms. Bonadea’s daughter Lani, who said, “I want to believe that you all care about making the streets safer …” but it was “disheartening” that nothing had been done yet, even with a mayoral resolution about bicycle safety the month before the collision.
She also said that while her mother was an amazing person who “did a lot for a lot of people,” that shouldn’t be the reason safety is improved – it should be done on behalf of everyone. “I don’t uderstand why that street has been allowed to function.”
The first panelist to speak was SDOT director Angela Brady, who said her department had a “new policy” for reviewing sites of fatal crashes (although there had been previous policies, we note from our coverage of recent incidents).
SDOT’s safety officer Venu Nemani also spoke about a “new process and policy,” including a semi-annual review of all walking and biking-related collisions in the city.
Then came some specifics for this site: Removing parking on the south side of that block of SW Wildwood (which would include the area where Ms. Bonadea was killed), a new all-way stop at Fauntleroy and Wildwood, and a bike lane. Nemani said SDOT is “working on the conceptual design” for this, and insisted, “We hear you” about wanting safety concerns to be addressed sooner rather than later. (The two-week promise for parking changes later drew a suggestion from a community member that the parking removal could be done overnight – “just put up A-boards.”)
Councilmember Saka spoke next, declaring “this is sobering stuff”:
He said he’s working on “traffic-safety legislation” that would take a broader look at related safety challenges, citing advocates’ request for more daylighting of intersections, side guards on trucks, and mandatory Vision Zero reviews.
Ms. Bonadea’s widow Laura then spoke.
Like her wife’s daughter, she said it’s not just that exceptional people like Maridee “deserve to live” – everyone does. Why wait for a fatal crash? She urged action on problems all over the city, including “bike lanes that suddenly end. SDOT “needs to be proactive, before (more) people die. “I want to see some action” – quickly, urgently, she said.
That’s when Nemani promised the parking removal would be done “in the next few weeks.”
Friends of Ms. Bonadea from the Rainbow Riders group reiterated that urgent action is called for, in other areas with safety challenges too.
Alex Hudson from the mayor’s office assured attendees that her boss wants fast action too.
Some of the problems that community members surfaced were beyond fast action, maybe beyond any action at all, like the declaration that the root issue here was “a ferry dock in the middle of a commmunity,” and no dedicated space for vehicles to line up, just curbspace shared with parked vehicles.
Dock-related concerns were addressed by the WSF reps, primarily via a reminder that a traffic signal is going in later this year where the dock meets Fauntleroy Way.
Other comments included an observation about who was not at the meeting – West Seattle community advocate Leslie Harris, noting she had recently retired from the legal profession, said the City Attorney and a “risk manager” should have been present, as incidents like this can not only lead to devastating loss of life, they can lead to multi-million-dollar lawsuits. She observed, “Sometimes litigation is the only thing that moves bureaucracy – it won’t bring back people (but) will make things happen.”
The demand for action was echoed by numerous attendees. Related issues were surfaced as well, such as the need for enforcement of laws and rules that already exist. More known danger spots were described, including Beach Drive. Another repeated request: Keep the community in the loop as design concepts are developed and timelines are developed. SDOT promised they would. Director Brady also said the community’s help is needed to answer questions of, after parking removal and bike-lane installation, where would families pick up students that ride the ferries to and from Vashon schools?
There also were repeated calls for revisiting work that already had been done but was not acted on – like a 2020 report recommending removal of the Wildwood parking, and long-shelved projects like Fauntleroy Boulevard (in The Triangle). There were questions seeking to clarify processes – how do all the involved departments and agencies communicate? They already have “interagency meetings,” replied Brady.
Speakers made other requests – paint the curb red, once parking is removed; install boulders to reinforce borders with the curbspace; put in speed cushions before the curve onto Fauntleroy … the list went on. Beyond suggestions, the community’s role in what happens next was stressed, too. Community member Robert Pluma declared, “I see a community ready for action.’ And FCA president Immel closed out the meeting with a reminder that “as a volunteer organization, we need your help … we want to see change happen.”
WHAT’S NEXT: SDOT promised to communicate about how and when that change will happen; FCA promised to help circulate that information. And we’ll be following up too.
ADDED 4:09 PM: Since we went to SW Wildwood late this morning and saw no changes, there’s been one. FCA VP Bailey tells WSB via email that temp no-parking signs have since been put up, from Fauntleroy to 36th: “They heard us!” (Wednesday photo added)
(High Point Library courtyard, sketched by William Wittmann)
Here’s our list for the rest of today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar – which you can preview any time:
SUMMER FOOD FOR KIDS: Local sites are open for all under 18 to access food – see our story for locations and other information.
WEST SEATTLE GLASS FLOAT HUNT, DAY 6 As noted here pre-hunt, no daily clues this year unless a float remains stubbornly unfound (and there HAVE been some clues as a result) – watch for the hand-blown floats all over West Seattle. As of midmorning today, 79 floats have been released and 49 have been found, according to the official website, which shows status when floats are found (provided the finder has used the special QR code).
READING WITH TODDLERS: 10:30 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (4522 California SW; WSB sponsor).
SPRAYPARK’S OPEN: Daily-splashing season at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale), 11 am-8 pm.
SWIMMING POOL’S OPEN: Daily operations also continue at Colman Pool on the shore at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW), noon-7 pm.
WADING POOLS: Two are scheduled today in West Seattle – Delridge, 12-5:30 pm (4501 Delridge Way SW) and Lincoln Park, 12-7 pm (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW).
PLAY AMERICAN MAH JONGG: Play indoors this afternoon! 2-4 pm, join players at Missing Piece (4707 California SW).
LEARN ABOUT AI: 3 pm workshop at Southwest Library (9010 35th SW).
SW LANDER ‘PEDESTRIAN STREET’: What would you want to see if SW Lander was blocked off to vehicles between California and the alley east of 44th SW? Next step is a “community design charrette” drop-in event tonight, 4:30-6:30 at the proposed location.
CLIMB AT CAMP LONG: Again this week – two special climbing sessions, 5 and 6:30 pm! Our calendar listing has details. (5200 35th SW)
FREE YOGA FOR 12-STEP RECOVERY: Wednesdays this summer, 5-6:30 pm at Inner Alchemy Studio and Sanctuary (3618 SW Alaska), no registration but MUST arrive no later than 4:55 pm.
FIX-IT WORKSHOP: The free (donations appreciated), 5:30-7:30 pm workshop is happening at West Seattle Tool Library (4408 Delridge Way SW, northeast side of Youngstown Cultural Arts Center), and the library is open for borrowing.
MODE MUSIC ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: Monthly open mic at Tim’s (98th/16th), 5:30 pm sign-ups, 6 pm music. Presented by Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor).
OUR CITY, OUR SAFETY: Seattle Police-convened community conversation about crime and safety, 6 pm at Delridge Community Center (4501 Delridge Way SW).
WEST SEATTLE URBANISM: Talk about Seattle’s growth – current and future – at the weekly 6 pm meetup – this week at The Good Society (2701 California SW).
POTTERINGS TRY-IT NIGHT: Open studio – try it even if you’ve never ventured into pottery-making before. 6 pm (3400 Harbor SW, east side of ground level) – our calendar listing has the RSVP link.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT RUN: Join the weekly 6:15 pm group run with West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) tonight – all welcome, all paces.
PRACTICE YOUR SPANISH LANGUAGE SKILLS: Local group of Spanish-language learners, dedicated to practicing it, gathers 6:30-8:30 pm at Mission Cantina (2325 California SW) – details in our calendar listing.
LIVE MUSIC AT THE LOCOL: 6:30 pm. 21+. Rotating performer lineup. (7902 35th SW)
MAD CRAFTY: Bring your craft project to Revelry Room (4547 California SW), 7-9 pm.
MUSIC BINGO: Weekly music bingo at at The Good Society (California/Lander), 7 pm.
TRIVIA x 5: Five West Seattle trivia venues – Seaside Grill (2820 Alki SW) has 7 pm trivia on Wednesdays … Admiral Pub has trivia at 7 pm (2306 California SW) … Larry’s Tavern (3405 California SW) has Wednesday trivia at 7:30 pm … Quiz Night at 8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW) … And trivia is at 8:30 pm at Talarico’s (4718 California SW).
SKYLARK OPEN MIC: West Seattle’s longest-running open mic! 7:30 pm signups for the weekly event at The Skylark. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
SALSA DANCING: 8 pm lessons with BALORICO at Viva Arts (4421 Fauntleroy Way SW).
SWING IT WEDNESDAY! Swing dancing and live music at 8:15 pm at South Park Hall (1253 S. Cloverdale, South Park).
KARAOKE X 2: In the south end, Megastar Karaoke with KDJ Mythikal at Max’s Triangle Pub (9454 Delridge Way SW), 9 pm … In the north end, sing at Admiral Pub also starting at 9, after trivia. (2306 California SW)
Planning an event, class, workshop, etc., that’s open to community participation/observation/visitation? Please send us info so we can add it to West Seattle’s only comprehensive event calendar! westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Family and friends will gather August 20 to celebrate the life of Jody A. Libao, and are sharing this remembrance now:
In Loving Memory of Jody A. Libao (Lansing)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jody A. Libao (Lansing), who passed away on July 2, 2026, at the age of 62.
Born on June 20, 1964, in Seattle, Jody was the beloved daughter of Harry and Jackie Lansing. Throughout her life, she was surrounded by the love of family, lifelong friendships, and countless treasured memories.
Jody dedicated her entire professional career to the insurance industry, where she worked as an underwriter for both insurance carriers and brokerage firms. She was respected for her professionalism, knowledge, and commitment, earning the admiration of colleagues while building lasting friendships throughout her career.
Above all, Jody’s greatest joy was her daughter. She loved her unconditionally, celebrated every accomplishment, and cherished every opportunity they shared together. Her love for her daughter was unwavering and remains one of the greatest parts of her legacy.
Jody embraced life with a spirit of adventure. She loved to travel, discover new places, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether exploring somewhere new or returning to places she loved, she found joy in life’s experiences and in the people who shared them with her.
One of Jody’s favorite places was her home on Hood Canal. There she found happiness boating, waterskiing, relaxing by the water, and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. Whether gathered on the deck, enjoying a day on the boat, or simply taking in the beauty of Hood Canal, those moments brought her immense happiness and will forever be treasured by those who shared them.
Jody is survived by her beloved daughter, Sofía Libao; her sisters, Lori Wold, Lisa Day Semer, and Sheri Lansing; her brother, Scott Lansing; her former husband, Dave Libao; her many beloved cousins; and numerous cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Harry and Jackie Lansing.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Cove, 1500 SW Shorebrook Drive, Normandy Park, WA 98166. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather to celebrate Jody’s life, share memories, and honor the kindness, friendship, and love she brought to so many.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Jody’s honor to Mary’s Place in Seattle, supporting its mission of providing shelter, safety, and support to women and families.
Jody will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her love of family and friends, and the happiness she found on the waters of Hood Canal. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to westseattleblog@gmail.com)
6:00 AM: Good morning. It’s Wednesday, August 12, 2026. This is the first “first day of school” in West Seattle – classes start today at Summit Atlas in Arbor Heights (35th/Roxbury).
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
The forecast is for sunshine and a high around 74. Sunrise will be at 6:01 am today; sunset, at 8:26 pm.
(Tuesday sunset photo by James Bratsanos)
TRANSIT TODAY
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule, but a stop closure downtown continuing today affects multiple West Seattle-bound buses – the southbound 3rd/Columbia stop, for Routes 21 56, 57, and 125, plus RapidRide C and H. Details here; the stop is expected to reopen by Thursday evening.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular summer schedule, with extra Friday/Saturday/Sunday runs including later-night schedule Fridays and Saturdays.
Washington State Ferries – Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the regular three-boat schedule; check the alert page for last-minute changes.
PREVIEW – WEEKEND CLOSURES
Early reminder:
-Friday night overnight into Saturday morning, Highway 99 tunnel maintenance closure, both ways
-Early Saturday morning through late Sunday night, northbound First Ave. South Bridge repair closure
-All day Saturday, Alki Avenue SW closed between 57th and 61st SW for Alki Beach Pride
BRIDGE TRAFFIC CAMERAS
Here are four bridge views from the SDOT map (note, the cameras are having some trouble as of just after 6 am – if that persists, choose any camera from the map and try the video view):
High Bridge – Here’s the main camera, followed by the Fauntleroy-end camera:
Low Bridge – Here’s the westward view:
1st Avenue South Bridge:
See a problem 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!
Story and photos by Jason Grotelueschen
Reporting for West Seattle Blog
Representatives from Sound Transit held an in-person drop-in forum on Tuesday night at Jet City Labs (4547 California Ave. SW) in The Junction, as part of the organization’s latest outreach efforts.
In particular, West Seattle Link Extension (WSLE) project team members from Community Engagement and Real Property were available to answer questions and speak directly with anyone affected by the upcoming ST Board vote about property acquisition. ST invited impacted property owners and community members to attend the event to learn more about the WSLE project, property acquisition efforts and the relocation process.
ST team members in attendance included Tanya Johnson, Rhonda Thomsen, and Scott Matetich, pictured left-to-right below speaking with neighbor Kelsey Johnold who is a homeowner near 41st and Alaska, which is one of the areas that will be significantly impacted by the current version of the WSLE project:
Johnold said that she wanted to take the opportunity to speak to the team, and to bring back literature and information for her neighbors who will also be impacted by the ST plans.
Also present from the ST team were Dani Schmidt and Hannah Rudin:
ST staff said the timing of Tuesday’s session was intentional, with ST’s System Expansion Committee meeting coming up Thursday (August 13), when 55 proposed property acquisitions will first be presented to ST Board. (They’re all listed here; about half are on the easternmost – SODO – stretch of the extension.) In late June, the ST Board approved a $400+ million spending installment for WS light rail (WSB coverage here).
The meeting was the first of four WSLE community events in August, with three others happening next week including an in-person event in SODO on Aug. 18th, and virtual events on the 19th and 20th. (Thanks to reader Bill for the last-minute tip on tonight’s meeting.)
Reported by reader HL:
Last night around 840 – 9 pm during a walk on 44th Ave, my boyfriend and I came upon the wooded entrance to Solstice Park at the top of the stairs on 44th Ave. We saw that someone had started a fire next to the stairs, and upon closer examination saw that something like a piece of clothing had been lit on fire. A small fire which was two feet high and one foot in diameter had begun. I called out to see if someone was tending the fire and heard no response. At that point I ran to the neighbor’s house just north of the entrance, rang the doorbell, and a nice gentlemen named Alan answered the door. I asked for a bucket of water to put out a fire and he grabbed a gallon milk jug filled with water from his garden which I took and put on the flames. He followed with another bucket of water and we ensured everything had been extinguished. Only after leaving did we realize that the Head and Shoulders shampoo bottle next to the fire may have been filled with gasoline.
Stay cautious. Stay vigilant. Stay safe. We must protect each other!!!
We asked HL if anyone had called 911; they had not, since they’d put out the fire. We’d advise calling anyway; among other reasons, sometimes this type of thing can be part of a pattern happening in an area, which you wouldn’t know but the firefighters (or even police) might.
On August 10, 1976, that 18-foot-tall totem pole was dedicated at Rotary Viewpoint Park (35th and Alaska). In honor of the 50th anniversary, members of the Rotary Club of West Seattle walked to the park today from their regular lunch-meeting location a short distance away at the WS Golf Course, and gathered for a brief commemoration.
Rotary president Stefanie Felix introduced Tom Wise, who told the park and pole’s story at today’s gathering.
Wise’s five-minute speech included the most notorious chapter in the pole’s history, when it was stolen and recovered in 2009:
Rotarians Duane Ruud and the late Ken Wise relentlessly sleuthed until the pole was found, as extensively covered here at the time. Ruud was among those at today’s celebration:
The pole was reinstalled and rededicated in August 2010, four days before Ken Wise died. In telling the story of the park and pole today, Tom Wise noted that the park “is not just a project of the past (but) a living symbol.”
The pole was carved in 1976 by Native artist Robin Young, who attended the rededication after its reinstallation in 2010. Today’s event was low-key, just part of the club’s weekly meeting, so no special guests were on hand, just a brief acknowledgment of the past and a look ahead to the future.
Here’s another early warning about utility work that might have a visible, potentially startling, side effect – Seattle Public Utilities plans another round of sewer-system inspections in Arbor Heights, using water vapor. Here’s what SPU wants you to know:
SPU will inspect the sewer system in Arbor Heights in late August- early September using water vapor. The water vapor can look like smoke, but it is a safe, non-toxic, non-staining water-based vapor. The testing helps SPU identify leaks and pipe connection issues and plan for future improvements.
Some of the streets of the testing area include SW Roxbury, 35th Ave SW, 37th Ave SW, 39th Ave SW, Marine View Drive SW, SW 100th Street, SW 106th Street. You can view the attached mailer, which residents will receive about one week before testing, for a full map of the testing area.
Homes and businesses will continue to receive normal water and sewer services and will not be impacted for more than 30 minutes. However, we are prioritizing testing before school starts around Arbor Heights Elementary and Westside School. Summit Atlas, a 6-12 school in the area, will be in session when testing begins. However, we are working with our partners to provide notice and reduce impacts.
Customers can learn more about the Water Vapor Testing process, how to prepare, and where to go with any concerns on our website.
According to our archives, SPU did some of this testing last summer too.
Last week, when SDOT announced the completion of the repaving project in the bus-layover zone on SW Barton alongside Roxhill Park, we learned that Metro wasn’t planning to return buses to their original routes until the spring “service change” next year – even though the Barton completion was announced weeks before the fall “service change” at the end of this month. We asked Metro if that was really true – that a five-month project would be done for seven months by the time it could be put to its intended use – and they said yes, as we reported last Friday. Then today, Metro spokesperson Al Sanders sent an update, saying the buses will likely return to Barton “within a matter of weeks” after all:
The final decision on when the stops will reopen is up to Bus Operations. Bus Operations has said that when they are notified by SDOT’s project team that the work is fully completed, preparations will begin on returning to those stops and ending the reroute.
There is no exact time, but it will likely be within a matter of weeks, depending on the information we receive from SDOT. While it might appear to the public the project is “done” and service can be restored, we want to ensure that our buses are not interfering with any final work that SDOT must complete in their construction zone.
Starting with last spring’s “service change,” the buses that used Barton were rerouted to Trenton because of the repaving work.
Indie-rock band The Mountain Goats filled Easy Street Records with fans last night as they performed just days after releasing their new album “Days.” It’s their 24th full-length studio album. WSB contributor Anne Higuera was there and recorded three of the songs. Above is one of the songs from the new album, “Shallow Grave”; below is their gold-record single “No Children,” which they played after band member John Darnielle told its backstory:
And this is another of The Mountain Goats’ best-known songs, “This Year.”
The band also played a variety of songs from “Days” and the unreleased fan favorite, “You Were Cool.” You can peek ahead to Easy Street’s upcoming in-store events via this page; we always feature them on the daily WSB highlight lists, too.
Before the new Alki Elementary School opens, there’s one loose end to tie up from the old school – project manager Brian Fabella says that many of the engraved bricks from the old school were salvaged and can be picked up at specific times this week and next:
Beginning this Wednesday, community members may pick up engraved brick pavers that were salvaged during the demolition of the former Alki Elementary School. Several alumni have contacted Principal Mason and me asking about the pavers. While some pavers could not be salvaged, those that were saved have been cleaned by the contractor and are available for pickup. They are located along the construction fence near the sidewalk at 59th Avenue SW and Stevens Street, near the new playground installation.
Pickup hours are:
-This week: Wednesday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
-Next week: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.Outside of these hours, the pavers will be secured behind locked construction fencing.
The school’s community ribboncutting celebration is a little over two weeks away, 10:30 am August 26. (Here’s our report with a look inside the new school two weeks ago.)
(Smoke-free Monday photo by Carol Ann Joyce)
Here’s our list of event notes/reminders/listings for today/tonight, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
WEST SEATTLE GLASS FLOAT HUNT, DAY 5 As noted here pre-hunt, no daily clues this year unless a float remains stubbornly unfound (and there HAVE been some clues as a result) – watch for the hand-blown floats all over West Seattle. As of midmorning today, 64 floats have been released and 39 have been found, according to the official website, which shows status when floats are found (provided the finder has used the special QR code).
SUMMER FOOD DRIVE: If you can help, the food drive is continuing daily at West Seattle Nursery (5275 California SW; WSB sponsor) – our story has the list of what is most needed.
POSTCARDS4DEMOCRACY: New postcard-writers as well as returnees are welcome at this weekly advocacy gathering, 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor). Sign up here before you go, if this is your first time.
SPRAYPARK SEASON: Daily operations continue at the Highland Park Spraypark (1100 SW Cloverdale) – free, scheduled 11 am-8 pm daily.
ROTARY CLUB OF WEST SEATTLE: Noon at West Seattle Golf Course (4470 35th SW; WSB sponsor); today’s program celebrates the 50th anniversary of the totem pole at Rotary Viewpoint Park.
WADING POOLS OPEN: With sunshine and warm weather, West Seattle’s regular wading-pool lineup will be open – noon to 7 pm at Lincoln Park (8011 Fauntleroy Way, upper park near the north lot) and at EC Hughes (2805 SW Holden).
COLMAN POOL: Noon-7 pm, daily sessions continue at the outdoor saltwater pool on the shore at Lincoln Park – see the schedule here. (8011 Fauntleroy Way SW)
CHESS CLUB: All levels! 1:30-3 pm, at the Center for Active Living (4217 SW Oregon).
OTHER EVENTS AT THE CENTER: Dozens every week! Go here for the full Center for Active Living calendar.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: Regular weekly 2 pm meeting; here’s the agenda, which explains how to participate, in person or remotely.
DROP-IN WINE TASTING: 5-7 pm Tuesdays at Walter’s Wine Shop (4811 California SW) – $15 fee, $5 off with bottle purchases. “Wine wars” in the spotlight tonight – Northwest vs. Spain.
DEMONSTRATION FOR BLACK LIVES: Long-running weekly sign-waving on the corners at 16th/Holden. 5-6 pm. Signs available if you don’t have your own.
TUESDAY NIGHT SUPPER CLUB: Alki Kayak Tours and Mountain to Sound Outfitters (WSB sponsor) are presenting this weekly event for stand-up paddleboarders – details here – 5:30 pm. (1660 Harbor SW)
INTERFAITH FREEDOM VIGIL: Weekly, 5:30-6:30 pm at Alki Statue of Liberty Plaza candlelight vigil open to all. (61st SW and Alki SW)
FAUNTLEROY BICYCLING SAFETY FORUM: 6 pm at The Hall at Fauntleroy (9131 California SW), in the wake of the death of rider Maridee Bonadea, her family and community members will meet with city, county, and state officials in this forum organized by the Fauntleroy Community Association to get long-advocated safety improvements. All welcome.
STORY TIME IN THE GARDEN: 6 pm at Delridge P-Patch (5078 25th SW), weekly story time for kids, followed by a garden activity.
THE GOOD SOCIETY BOOK CLUB: 6:30 pm; this month’s title is in our calendar listing. (California/Lander)
OPEN MIC: 6:30 pm signups, 7 pm music at weekly open mic hosted by Levi Said at Tim’s (16th SW and SW 98th) in White Center.
TRACK RUN WITH WEST SEATTLE RUNNER: Meet up by 6:15 pm at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) for WSR’s free weekly track run.
PASS THE AUX: Interactive music game at Revelry Room (4547 California SW), 7 pm.
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING: Weekly lessons continue at Fauntleroy Church (9140 California SW), 7 pm – lots of info in our ongoing calendar listing.
WOMEN’S MEDITATION CIRCLE: Weekly small-group meditation at Mama Be Well Healing Studio (4034-A California SW), 7 pm. Our calendar listing has info on registering before you go.
BINGO! Play free Tuesday night Belle of the Balls Bingo at The Skylark, 7 pm. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
TRIVIA X 4: Four Tuesday trivia venues – The Beer Junction (4711 California SW), Sporcle Pub Quiz with David at 7 pm and 8 pm … 7 pm at Ounces (3803 Delridge Way SW), free, 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, free to play, prizes. (2306 California SW).
KARAOKE AT POGGIE TAVERN: 9 pm Tuesdays, until 1:30 am, your turn to sing! (4717 California SW)
Organizing an event, class, performance, gathering, etc.? Tell your West Seattle neighbors via our event calendar – just email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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