West Seattle, Washington
13 Tuesday
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
Again this season, we’ll be showing West Seattle Halloween decorations, so once yours are up, consider sending us a pic – [email protected] – thank you!
(Early this morning – photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
We’ve been noting in our daily traffic/transit notes that the Water Taxi’s fall schedule change is almost here. It’ll follow a huge summer, this news release from Metro points out:
This summer, the water taxi’s theme was “Make it a Boat Day,” and it included extra sailings for Seattle Mariners weekday evening games and the World Cup tournament, along with its regular extended summer service on weekends (Friday and Saturday) to West Seattle. Tourists and residents of the region took advantage and made the 10-15 minute ride to West Seattle and the 22-minute trip to Vashon.
The results were the biggest ridership for both routes in close to a decade — including a record 8,552 boardings for the West Seattle Water Taxi on June 19 for the U.S. vs. Australia World Cup Match, shattering a single-day ridership record of 7,721 that stood since 2018.
As summer turns to fall, the water taxi is getting ready for its shift to reduced sailings starting on Saturday, Oct. 10.
Vashon returns to weekday only service
After a year of Saturday service and the “summer Sunday” service of 2026, the Vashon Water Taxi returns to operating 10 round trips Monday through Friday, starting Oct. 10.
Metro received approximately $1.1 million from the state legislature as part of the state transportation budget in 2025. Those funds supported one additional round trip on Friday evenings and Saturday water taxi service, which began in October 2025, as well as six months of Sunday water taxi service, which started in April 2026.
The funds supported the added service through October 2026. Thousands of Vashon Island riders took advantage of the additional service.
The 7:30 p.m. late Friday sailing from Pier 50 to Vashon also ends on October 10.
Fall and winter schedule returns for West Seattle
Late night Friday and weekend service for riders in West Seattle ends on Oct. 10 with the return of the annual fall and winter schedule. Seventeen round-trip sailings from Pier 50 operated through 6:45 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Eleven round-trip sailings operate through 6:30 p.m. on Saturdays and -Sundays.
REMINDER
Ride free shuttle buses to and from the Water Taxi. The days may be getting shorter, but whether you live in West Seattle or are coming across Elliott Bay for a day of bargain hunting in the Junction, riders can take the free Metro water taxi shuttles to and from the dock at Seacrest Park, and between other destinations on the route.
-Route 773 will get you to the businesses and restaurants in the West Seattle Junction.
-Route 775 takes you along Alki and into the Admiral District
See the Water Taxi’s fall/winter schedule here.
That photo is from what’s become an annual tradition – a mini-walk in West Seattle for people who aren’t going to the big Walk to End Alzheimer’s downtown but want to call attention to the cause. In case you haven’t seen already seen it in our West Seattle Event Calendar, here’s the invitation sent by Pat:
The West Seattle Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group will walk Saturday, October 3, for those who can’t make it to the larger walk at Seattle Center. Meeting at 10 a.m. at the water tower (meet on Othello at 37th, near Our Lady of Guadalupe). All are welcome…families, dogs,friends, loved ones, children … anyone with a connection to dementia. The course is 1 mile, walking at a casual, conversational pace. If you wish to support with a contribution, see the Alz.org website. Find us by alzwa—find a team. We are westseattlesupportgroup. Wear Purple if you can!
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
The weekend’s on the way. What follows are highlights for the rest of October’s first Friday, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar:
LAST DAY FOR SW ARTIST SHOWCASE DROPOFFS: As previewed here, today is the final day to drop off entries for the Southwest Library‘s annual SW Artist Showcase. Any time during Friday hours – 10 am to 6 pm. (9010 35th SW)
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: Fall gardening? The center has plants! Open until 3 pm on the north end of the main campus of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).
BABY STORY TIME: 11 am at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW).
ENGLISH CONVERSATION CIRCLE: Practice with other adult learners at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond), 12:30-2 pm.
OKTOBERFEST AT OUNCES, DAY 1: 3-9 pm, beer, food, activities including 7 pm stein-holding competition, full schedule here. (3809 Delridge Way SW)
TASTING ROOM AND WINE BAR: Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor) is open 5-9 pm Fridays. Stop in to sip, and/or buy a bottle.
OPEN MIC AT THE COFFEEHOUSE: 6-8 pm, musicians and singers of all genres are welcome at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), no cover, all ages.
FREE SWING DANCING: All welcome to this free “social dance” at Puget Ridge Cohousing (7020 18th SW), 6-8 pm.
HIGH-SCHOOL FOOTBALL – HULING BOWL: The annual crosstown competition football faceoff, 7 pm at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) – Chief Sealth IHS vs.West Seattle HS.
LIVE AT KENYON HALL: Karen Hall on cello with “Delusions and Grandeur,” 7:30 pm (7904 35th SW).
‘THE CHINESE LADY’ AT ARTSWEST: 7:30 pm, third week for “The Chinese Lady” at ArtsWest (4711 California SW) – info including ticket link is in our calendar listing.
LIVE AT THE SKYLARK: Doors at 7, show at 8, Former Jock, Mad King, Gwen. $10 at the door, 21+. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
LIVE AT TIM’S: Tom Price Desert Classic, Nonmodern, Moonspots, 8 pm at Tim’s Tavern (16th/98th, White Center), all ages until 10 pm.
SPINNING: Revelry Room (4547 California SW) regular Friday night spinning – with DJ Topspin tonight, starting at 9 pm.
‘MAKE IT LOUD’ SKATING WITH MUSIC: Tonight, During the Rat City Recon music fest, 9 pm at Southgate Roller Rink (9646 17th SW). 21+. $20 cover/$5 skates.
MEGASTAR KARAOKE: 9 pm at Max’s Triangle Pub (9454 Delridge Way SW).
If you have something for our event lists and ongoing calendar, please email what/when/where/etc. info to [email protected] – thank you!
Family and friends will gather Saturday to celebrate the life of Al Taylor, and they’re sharing this remembrance with the community:
Alvin A. Taylor, known to everyone as Al, was born on September 11, 1930, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and passed away on September 10, 2026, in Tacoma, just one day shy of his 96th birthday.
Al lived a long and colorful life, the kind of life that could fill a room with laughter before he even said a word. He was loving, funny, and generous, and those three words only begin to tell the story. Al had the rare gift of making people feel welcome, whether he was telling a story, sharing a joke, or giving someone the kind of steady kindness that never asked for anything in return. He had a comedian’s timing, a gentleman’s heart, and a knack for turning ordinary moments into memories people would retell for years.
He served his country in the Army, where he learned discipline, resilience, and probably a few stories he knew better than to tell at the dinner table. After that, he worked with the Seattle Water Department, helping do the kind of honest work that keeps a city moving even when nobody is thinking about it. Later, he was associated with the Seattle Mariners, a connection that surely gave him plenty to smile about, because Al understood that life, like baseball, has good days, bad days, and the occasional wild pitch. Through every chapter of his working life, he brought reliability, humor, and a steady presence that people could count on.
Al was also connected with the Masons, an organization that reflected his values of fellowship, service, and commitment. He believed in being part of something bigger than himself, and he carried that spirit into every part of his life. He was the kind of man who showed up, did the work, and somehow made the whole effort feel lighter because he was there. He did not need a spotlight. He was perfectly content to be the one making sure everyone else was comfortable, laughing, and taken care of.
Family was at the center of Al’s world. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Shirley, his daughter Linda, and his granddaughter Sarah. Their absence was deeply felt, yet the love he shared with them remained part of his story always. He is survived by six daughters, twelve grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward a piece of his spirit. His family was one of his greatest joys, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, humor, and generosity that will continue to echo through generations.
Al had a way of making people laugh without ever trying too hard. He did not need a stage, a microphone, or a punchline written on a napkin. He could turn a simple conversation into a performance, and he knew that the best comedy often came from truth, timing, and the ability to laugh at life when life got a little too serious. He was the kind of man who could tease you, help you, and then make you laugh about the whole thing before you had time to complain. That is a rare talent, and Al had it in abundance.
Those who knew him will remember his warmth, his wit, and his generous heart. They will remember the way he could brighten a room, the way he could make a hard day easier, and the way he made people feel seen and valued. He was a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and storyteller. Most of all, he was a man who lived fully and loved deeply.
Alvin A. Taylor leaves behind a life well lived and a family well loved. Though he has taken his final bow, the applause remains in the hearts of all who knew him. His laugh, his kindness, and his unmistakable presence will continue to be remembered with affection, gratitude, and more than a few smiles.
His life will be celebrated Saturday, October 3, at 1 pm, at the Alki Masonic Center (4736 40th SW, West Seattle).
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to [email protected])
6:03 AM: Good morning! It’s Friday, October 2, 2026.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Patchy morning fog, then partly sunny, high in the low 70s. Sunrise will be at 7:10 am today, while sunset will be at 6:46 pm.
(Thursday sunset photo by Carol Ann Joyce)
CLOSURE ALERT
Overnight tonight, WSDOT will close the Highway 99 tunnel both ways. Here’s the announcement:
From 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 to 6 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3:
Both directions of SR 99 from north of South Spokane Street to south of Raye Street will close.
The Royal Brougham Way/Colorado Avenue South on-ramp to the northbound SR 99 tunnel will close.
The Sixth Avenue North on-ramp to the southbound SR 99 tunnel will close.
Lanes will begin closing at 8:30 p.m. People using southbound SR 99 will exit at the Harrison Street off-ramp, and people using northbound SR 99 will exit at Alaskan Way South.Washington State Department of Transportation tunnel maintenance crews will perform fire systems testing, light repairs, road sweeping and drain cleaning during this closure.
TRANSIT TODAY
Washington State Ferries – The Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the three-boat schedule (until next Monday, October 5, when it goes to two boats for a month). Check the alert page for last-minute changes.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule today – any reroute/stop advisories will be here.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular summer schedule, with later night runs Fridays and Saturdays through next Friday (October 9th).
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 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!
The White Center Food Bank – which serves part of West Seattle too – distributed 1.7 million pounds of food last year to more than 15,500 people last year. We’re now just eight nights away from your chance to support that work. WCFB returns to the White Center HUB – site of its former home at 8th SW and SW 108th – for “Back to Our Roots” on Friday night, October 9. Two acclaimed White Center eateries – Tomo and Patrick’s Café & Bakery – will cater; Tanoa Polynesian Productions will perform; White Center Community Development Association executive director Aaron Garcia and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay will speak. It starts that night with dinner at 6 pm; get your seat at the table by buying a ticket here,
5:17 PM: Thanks to the Alki Elementary parent who forwarded this note sent to families by the school’s principal Mason Skeffington:
Dear Alki families,
I want to share with you some information on an incident from today that has affected some students in our school community.
This morning at approximately 9:15 a.m., it was reported that a stranger approached the fence line and attempted to lure three students away from the playground while they were playing near the fence at recess. The stranger shared that she had something in her car that she wanted to give the students. Our brave students recognized that this was a stranger, ran from the adult and went to report to our trusted adults on staff. The students were unharmed.
Upon learning of the incident, I immediately alerted our SPS Safety and Security, and they responded immediately with support from the regional support specialist. I contacted SPD, provided the details of the incident, and the investigation is ongoing and a case number has been assigned. I also alerted all staff at Alki and especially those assigned to recess duty. We will continue to remain extra-vigilant in supervision of recess, at arrival and dismissal, and throughout the school day as we move forward.
I’m sending you this letter to assure you that we are doing everything we can to support our students, and to suggest ways you may help your children.
Please know, the safety and well-being of Alki Elementary students is our top priority. You can help your children stay safe by talking to them about personal safety.
Remind your student to always be aware of their surroundings and not talk to strangers or go anywhere with them. If you are looking for guidance and tips, these resources might be helpful:
Scholastic: Talking about stranger safety
Seattle Police Department Personal Safety Tips
SPS Coordinated School Health Mental Health ResourcesWe all play a role in school safety. You can text or call the SPS SaferWatch School Tipline 206-222-4357 to report any threats to SPS schools. This phone number is managed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year round.
If you have any information, the SPD incident number is 26-292903. We’ll add anything more we find out.
6:51 PM: Here’s the narrative of that police report, provided by SPD:
At 1309 hours, the principal … called 911 to report a suspicious incident that occurred around 0915 hours. He stated some 1st grade students reported an unknown woman had approached the playground’s fence while they were playing. She told the children she had a crown in her car and was trying to get the children to go with her to see it. None of the children went with her but she told the children she would return later. School pick-up was at 1425, so I headed to the school to be present while the children were being released from school.
While being a presence at the school, XXXX approached me and we discussed the incident. He said 3 1st graders had told faculty about the incident and could only describe the female as “grandma age” and in a silver car. I asked if faculty was outside at the time of the incident and he said there were, but none of them saw anything. I asked if there were XXXXX playground and the sidewalk. He said XXXXX.
I told XXXX I would document the incident in case anything further should occur. He said staff was going to be having a meeting about the incident so they are all aware and more vigilant in the future.
Two days away from your next chance to drive up, ride up, walk up to the Fauntleroy Church lot (9140 California SW) for the fall Recycle Roundup – here again is the official list of what you can and can’t drop off:
Recycle Roundup is happening from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday, October 3, in collaboration with recycler 1 Green Planet. Free (though volunteers will be happy to accept donations to support this twice-yearly event).
After a question from reader Abhi, wondering about the status of The Last Parlor – the event venue planned by Cori Luckenbach in the space where she used to run Bebop Waffle Shop (now a pop-up next door) – we checked in. Abhi was worried because the boards over the windows had stopped mentioning The Last Parlor, almost two years after Cori announced the plan. Not to worry, Cori told us, “The Last Parlor is very much alive!” As for why the exterior at California/Admiral stopped mentioning it, she explained, “I held off on painting a Parlor update because the new windows were supposed to go in any week, and then the boards would come down. That ‘any week’ kept moving.”
She continued, “The good news is that the windows arrived [earlier this week] and are being installed. Once they’re in, the wood comes down and I can finally paint the façade and show the neighborhood what’s been happening inside.”
The Last Parlor’s website was down for a bit too (we can relate) – that compounded Abhi’s concern – but it’s back up now, and you can sign up there for updates. As for an updated projected opening date, Cori says the interior of the 1906 building had to be brought up to code for an “assembly space” and that dealing with the city has been a “long, detailed (awful) process” – but the end (and The Last Parlor’s beginning) is in sight!
We heard a dispatch late last night for a reported burglary attempt at Addy’s Pet Shop in Highland Park, and obtained the report narrative today:
On 9/30/2026 while working fully uniformed patrol as unit 3W22, I was dispatched to 1XXX SW Henderson St XXXX for the following: “RP [reporting party] SAW VIA CAMERA UNK(NOWN) PERSON TRYING TO PICK LOCK AND BREAK IN LOCK 10 MIN AGO.” I arrived on scene and found a broken door handle … on the east side door. Pictures were taken of the damage and uploaded into digital evidence. I contacted the reporting party XXXX … She explained that she witnessed a White/Male/Adult dressed in a gray hoodie, red backpack, light blue baseball cap with white lettering, and dark pants try and pick the lock. When the suspect was unable to open the lock, they proceeded to break the handle off with a piece of lumber. The suspect left the property when XXXX yelled at him through the camera. The suspect was last seen headed south to Henderson St SW.
If you have any information, the SPD incident number to reference is 26-292243.
The two most recent coyote-sighting reports we’ve received were both south of Admiral.
CHARLESTOWN HILL: Reported by Edward this morning:
This morning approx. 10:55 AM in our backyard near 47th & Charlestown. First time in 25 years!
NEAR MADISON MS: This sighting was reported by Thomas last week: “Walking with my dog … We crossed paths with a coyote on the 3200 block.of 45th. This is 1 block north of Madison.”
Our customary reminder: We report coyote sightings for awareness, not alarm. Learn about them, and other wildlife, here.
(Dogwood tree, photographed in Fauntleroy by Phil Sweetland)
Here’s our list of what’s happening around West Seattle in the hours ahead, mostly from the WSB West Seattle Event Calendar (where you’ll find even more – THANK YOU to everyone who sends events for us to share!). PLEASE NOTE: Since we’re still experiencing some technical instability today, we’re trying to include source links where possible so you don’t get hung up waiting for our server:
FREE INDOOR PLAY SPACE: 9 am-noon at West Seattle Church of the Nazarene (42nd SW and SW Juneau).
SOUTH SEATTLE COLLEGE GARDEN CENTER: 10 am-3 pm, plant sales featuring and supporting students’ work. North end of SSC campus (6000 16th SW).
TODDLER STORY TIME: 10:30 am at Southwest Library (9030 35th SW).
WEST SEATTLE UKULELE PLAYERS: From newbie to pro, all levels welcome at this weekly 1 pm gathering. Email [email protected] to see where they’re playing today. (Even if you just want to know so you can be there to listen!)
NEW BEGINNER CLOGGING CLASS: Learn to clog! Join the class today, 1:30-2:30 pm at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds).
WEST SEATTLE SOCIAL HOUR: Want to meet people – in person? Camp West (4539 California SW) is hosting a weekly “social hour” where you can drop in (21+) and do that! 4 pm.
DROP-IN CHESS: The regular High Point Library Thursday event is happening today – people 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 Asian Crazy.
WINE TASTING WITH CLARK: Another regular Thursday event at HPCS, 5-7:30 pm – info here.
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS: In girls’ soccer, Chief Sealth IHS hosts Nathan Hale, 4:30 pm at Nino Cantu SW Athletic Complex (2801 SW Thistle) …In volleyball, the undefeated CSIHS team hosts Ingraham in the Chief Sealth gym, 7 pm (2600 SW Thistle).
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.
NEEDLE DROP AT THE SKYLARK: Monthly “community listening party,” 5-11 pm, sign up for a spot to play the album you bring to share! (3803 Delridge Way SW)
READY FOR A TSUNAMI? This rescheduled presentation at Delridge Library (5423 Delridge Way SW), 6 pm, has what you need to know.
LEONARD COHEN’S ZEN LIFE: 6 pm presentation at High Point Library (3411 SW Raymond).
POSTCARDING PARTY: 6-8 pm at Beveridge Place Pub (6413 California SW), gathering to fill out postcards to encourage recipients to vote.
TALKING ABOUT REPARATIONS: Discussion series continues, presented by Admiral Church, held online via Zoom, 6 pm, info in our calendar listing.
POKEMON LEAGUE: 6 pm Thursdays at Fourth Emerald Games (4517 California SW, upstairs) – BYO console.
WESTIES RUN CLUB: 6 pm community run, starting from Good Society (California SW and SW Lander).
DUSTY THURSDAYS AT TIM’S: 6-9 pm, The Dusty 45s ft. Look Sharp Aim True, all ages, no cover, donations accepted for the musicians. (16th SW and SW 98th, White Center)
FREE CONCERT AT ALKI UCC: 7 pm, live jazz with The Susan Pascal Trio at Alki UCC (6115 SW Hinds).
(added) WEST SEATTLE BOOK CLUB: BYOB(ook) and read! 7 pm, various venues, listed here.
TRIVIA AT ADMIRAL PUB: 7 pm trivia at Admiral Pub. (2306 California SW)
‘THE CHINESE LADY’ AT ARTSWEST: 7:30 pm, third week begins for “The Chinese Lady” at ArtsWest (4711 California SW) – info including ticket link is in our calendar listing.
DJ NIGHT AT REVELRY ROOM: 8 pm start. (Behind 4547 California SW)
KARAOKE AT THE PUB: 9 pm to close at Max’s Triangle Pub, your chance to sing! (9454 Delridge Way SW)
Working on an event that should be on our calendar and in our daily highlight list? Please email info to [email protected] – thank you!
Family and friends will gather October 10 to remember Nancy Barker, and are sharing this remembrance with her community:
Nancy Lee Barker passed away on August 4, 2026, at the age of 84 in Seattle. She was born on February 23, 1942, in Denver, Colorado, to Malcolm and Margaret (Walker) Barker.
As a child, Nancy lived in Japan for several years with her parents and four of her siblings while her father was stationed there. She later attended Fort Lupton High School in Colorado, where she was a cheerleader. During high school, she lived with a neighboring family as a companion and caregiver for their daughter, who was paraplegic.
After graduating, Nancy moved to West Seattle at the invitation of her sister. Determined to find work, she went door to door in downtown Seattle asking for a job and was hired as a telephone operator at Pacific Northwest Bell. Over the course of her career, Nancy became a trainer and mentor, developing deep, lifelong friendships with many of the women she worked with. She continued working for Bell as a communications specialist until her retirement.
While working for the phone company, Nancy met and later married Walter “Walt” Sharp. Together, they purchased a small bungalow overlooking Puget Sound on the west side of West Seattle. They later expanded the property, building a beautiful, light-filled home above the original bungalow, which Nancy eventually used as a rental unit.
In 1978, Nancy and Walt welcomed their son, Keegan. He was Nancy’s whole world. Her fond memories of Japan remained with her throughout her life, and after Keegan grew up and moved away from home, Nancy hosted many Japanese exchange students, welcoming them into her home and her life.
Nancy was known for her great sense of style and regularly received compliments from friends and strangers alike. She closely followed politics and world news, hoping and praying for peace. She cared deeply about her family, especially her son Keegan, as well as Fauntleroy Church, her many friends, and her cats.
A three-time cancer survivor, Nancy never let illness keep her from enjoying the activities she loved, including gardening, hiking, walking, swimming, cooking, and hosting beautiful holiday parties. She enjoyed movies, music, and art of all kinds and enjoyed watching Real Time with Bill Maher. For many years, she participated in the Jingle Bell Run with friends and volunteered with NAMI. She also sang in the Fauntleroy Church choir for more than 18 years and was an active member of three fellowship groups: Sisters, Sojourners, and Solo Seniors.
Nancy is survived by her siblings Patricia Deatrich, Malcolm (Butch) Barker, Sherry Schmidt, and Barbara Loomis, many nieces and nephews, as well as her dear friends Sara and Sarah and their children, whom she regarded as family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Malcolm and Margaret Barker; her siblings, Lawrence (Larry) Barker and JoAnn Windholz; and her beloved son, Keegan Sharp.
A memorial service will be held on October 10, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Fauntleroy Church, United Church of Christ, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lifelong.org in loving memory of her brother Larry, or to the Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer Research in honor of Nancy.
(WSB publishes West Seattle obituaries and memorial announcements by request, free of charge. Please email the text, and a photo if available, to [email protected])
6:03 AM: Good morning and welcome to October.
WEATHER + SUNRISE/SUNSET
Partly sunny, high in the mid-60s. Sunrise will be at 7:08 am today, while sunset will be at 6:48 pm.
ROAD WORK
The second phase of SW 106th repaving in Arbor Heights is scheduled to conclude today – between 35th SW and 39th SW.
TRANSIT TODAY
Washington State Ferries – The Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route is on the three-boat schedule (until next Monday, October 5, when it goes to two boats for a month). Check the alert page for last-minute changes.
Metro buses – Regular weekday schedule today – any reroute/stop advisories will be here.
West Seattle Water Taxi – Regular summer schedule, with later night runs Fridays and Saturdays through October 9th, one week from tomorrow.
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 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!
Two weeks ago, we brought you first word of the Alki Community Council‘s crowdfunding campaign to fix the Alki Statue of Liberty‘s cracking pedestal. Tonight, ACC president Charlotte Starck tells us you’ve helped them achieve the goal:
On behalf of the Alki Community Council, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to our neighbors, ACC members, and West Seattle Blog readers who supported Alki’s Statue of Liberty repair campaign. In just one week, we reached our $5,000 goal! We simply could not have done it without you.
The response has been so encouraging that we’ll keep the fund open through the end of 2026, America’s 250th birthday year, to help replenish the statue’s diminishing annual maintenance fund. The responsibility for raising the funds to maintain this landmark rests entirely with citizens. We’ll keep the growing total transparent on our website, and transfer added donations to Seattle Parks and Recreation for management at year-end.
Our little Alki Statue of Liberty stands as a symbol of freedom and the liberties we value. As we plan repairs to begin in the spring, we as a neighborhood group of all volunteers want to thank donors for helping preserve it for generations to come.
Charlotte Starck
President, Alki Community Council
(Don Armeni file photo from seattle.gov)
As noted here three-plus weeks ago, Labor Day was not the end of earlier-for-summer closing time at Alki Beach and Don Armeni Boat Ramp. Tonight, however, is, as we first reported in March. Both park areas close at 10:30 pm one last time tonight; starting tomorrow, Alki’s closing time will be 11:30 pm, while Don Armeni is supposed to revert to 24-hour operation.
(WSB photo, west side of California south of Alaska, Tuesday afternoon)
By Tracy Record
West Seattle Blog editor
Two months after we first reported that SDOT had launched a new review of whether to charge for street parking in West Seattle’s main district, the recommendation is in and it’s different from the last two:
This time, the city is recommending paid street parking in The Junction, and a bit beyond. This map shows exactly where:
The recommendation is going public right now, with a briefing for area businesspeople. We talked in advance with SDOT reps working on the project as part of the department’s Community Access and Parking Program.
They say the review has been under way since “early this year”; they decided to “revisit The Junction” to see how “10 years of development” had affected the parking situation: “The world has changd a lot since we last studied parking.” That includes more people visiting The Junction during the day, as the increase in people working from home meant more people with flexibility to do some local shopping or dining during the day. Pickups for food delivery also have affected curbspace usage.
They looked at the parking situation on a Thursday and Saturday in late April, between 8 am and 8 pm both days, and found that “parking was very full – above 85 percent.” On the same days, they did an “intercept survey … roaming around The Junction talking to folks,” speaking with more than 500 people. In July, they announced that the city was considering paid street parking and other changes, and released reports about what they’d found, That kicked off a feedback period including multiple versions of an online survey as well as conversations with dozens of local businesspeople. We reported results of that survey earlier this month.
“This project is rooted in a lot of data,” SDOT reps say. They also note that they heard a lot about the need for “pedestrian improvements” so some are part of the recommendations. Details on those are below, but first, more about the paid parking recommendation.
As shown on the map, here’s where you would be charged, Mondays through Saturdays, 8 am to 8 pm (except for citywide “parking holidays”):
*California SW between SW Dakota and SW Edmunds
*44th SW between SW Oregon and SW Edmunds
*42nd SW between SW Oregon and SW Edmunds
*On SW Alaska, the few free city-owned spots on the north edge of the lot behind KeyBank will become paid, possibly keeping one five-minute spot for ballot-box use
*SW Genesee between California SW and 42nd SW
*SW Oregon between 42nd SW and 44th SW
*Fauntleroy Way SW between SW Alaska and SW Edmunds
*SW Edmunds between 40th SW and Fauntleroy Way SW
A few other stretches will remain free but time-limited to 8 pm rather than the current 6 pm:
*South side of SW Genesee, 44th SW to California SW
*California between SW Erskine and SW Hudson
*40th SW and 41st SW between SW Alaska and SW Edmunds
There will be loading zones – 5-, 15-, 30-minute zones – but the locations have not yet been determined; that would be done in consultation with businesses.
SDOT says there would be pay stations that will accept cards and coins, as well as a pay-by-phone option. (Signs would be largely in the same spots as current signs.) You can choose options in 15-minute increments, up to two hours (unlike the Junction’s paid private lots). If you choose less than two hours and pay by phone, you’ll have the option to add more time by phone – but only up to two hours total. Since the rates would start at $1 per hour, that means the cheapest parking would be 25 cents, for 15 minutes in the morning. Here are the rate recommendations:
8 am to 11 am – $1/hour
11 am to 8 pm – $4/hour
Here’s how that compares to other parts of the city:
Rates are assessed periodically, SDOT says, to see if they’re working toward the desired goal of always having some spots available. After reviews, they could decide to lower, or raise, rates in 50-cent increments.
So where does the money go? “To the city’s general fund,” according to SDOT, not a specific fund. There’s no specific “revenue target.” And while they note that paid parking should make enforcement easier – parking-enforcement officers will have access to vehicles’ payment status – they also note that SPD isn’t adding any new PEOs to go with this potential paid-parking launch (they’ve been reviewing Queen Anne too and are making similar recommendations.) They also expect that paid street parking would be something of a traffic-calming improvement – “less circling” if more spots are available.
Speaking of street safety – we promised information on the “pedestrian improvements” that would be part of this plan. Nothing dramatic at this point, SDOT says, though its surveys showed interest in changes such as wider sidewalks and more permanent outdoor dining. Here’s what they do plan to do, or are considering, mostly on SW Oregon:
We learned while writing this story that one planned “pedestrian improvement” – a “hardened center line” adjacent to crosswalks at California/Oregon – is being installed today:
(Photo courtesy Chris Mackay, WSJA)
Here’s the full PDF from which the pages above are taken.
So now that the recommendations are out, what next? SDOT is accepting comments here. They’re also planning to table in front of the Junction QFC (42nd SW and SW Alaska) next Tuesday (October 6), between 10 am and 2 pm. Whatever the final decision is, it would take effect early next year.
(WSB photo, March 2025)
A local law firm has announced that it’s just filed a $30 million claim against the city on behalf of the family of the man shot and killed by police outside the Southwest Precinct a year and a half ago. Attorneys Mark Lindquist and Angus Lee allege in their news release that “Seattle police officers were negligent, used excessive force, and violated the Americans with Disabilities Act, among other state and federal causes of action arising from the preventable death.” The shooting happened on March 19, 2025, after 36-year-old Andrew Seay was encountered in the parking lot on the west side of the precinct. His wife had called 911 earlier to say he was in the area of The Home Depot next door and in crisis. According to the law firm’s summary, officers tried to get him to leave the lot, and he “would follow directions, and then turn and meander. … While meandering, Mr. Seay pulled out a folding pocketknife. He moved toward officers, then stepped back and away. Officers told him to drop the knife. Mr. Seay appeared confused, turned and moved around a patrol car. He continued to meander for more than a minute. A supervisor directed an officer to deploy (a “less lethal” device).” The law firm says that happened just seven seconds later, and while Mr. Seay moved away from that device, he moved toward the officer who subsequently fired his gun four times – the only officer to shoot – an officer who they say was 35 feet away, outside the “21-foot reaction-distance benchmark.” Attorney Lindquist is quoted as saying, “Mr. Seay’s death could have been prevented if officers had used a Taser, or used the less lethal launcher without delay, or followed Seattle’s own polices on de-escalation.” The news release also notes, “The King County Prosecutor declined to file charges, but the standards in a criminal case are far different than a civil action. ” What’s just been filed (see the document here) is not a lawsuit, but a potential step toward one – the city has two months to consider it, and if they deny the claim, a lawsuit could be filed.
Thanks to Kevin Stock for the photo. That’s the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), seen off West Seattle this morning as it headed out again, three weeks after it was last seen inbound, heading back to Bremerton.
Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to message and call us to let us know you’ve had trouble getting to our website. Please forgive us – we’ve been working since last night to deal with major technical trouble that’s defied our tech team’s attempts to remedy it, ultimately requiring some major emergency work. Our commitment for 19 years has been to provide 24/7 service and we apologize for the interruption in that. We are hopeful things are somewhat stabilizing now (though periodic problems might yet arise), so we’re working to catch up; please note for possible future reference that if need be in an extended outage, we would publish West Seattle stories on our small side site, whitecenternow.com, which runs on a different setup. Thanks again for your understanding, and if you have any questions (or news tips!) we are always at 206-293-6302, text or voice, 24/7.
– Tracy Record (editor/publisher)
The entire staff of the home of West Seattle history – the Southwest Seattle Historical Society‘s executive director Elizabeth Rudrud and program coordinator Oli Castañon Villa – visited Mechanics Bank in The Junction (4022 SW Alaska; WSB sponsor) this afternoon to accept a gift – a $5,000 grant from Mechanics. Vice president and branch manager Bob Livingston said it’s in honor of the SWSHS new Log House Museum exhibit “Beyond Alki” as well as the celebration of our nation’s 250th anniversary. The museum at 3003 61st SW is open to the public noon-4 pm Thursdays and Fridays, 10 am-4 pm Saturdays. (Oli and Elizabeth are L-R in our photo’s center; Bob and banker Andrew Tento are flanking them.)
(Photo courtesy CraftLab Seattle)
Back in May, we told you about CraftLab Seattle‘s plan to open a studio on the north edge of The Junction, at 4411 California SW, more than four years after it was founded in a West Seattle home, with classes, workshops, and events around the city. At the time of our story, they hoped to open in mid-September. They’ve now set the date, and they’re not far behind that – this Saturday, October 3, they’re opening with a free community open house, 11 am to 5 pm, including a ribboncutting at noon. They’re offering studio tours, free crafting, and snacks. CraftLab Seattle founder Laura Duris says that “sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at CraftLab” – with projects featuring “upcycled, donated, and thrifted materials from our own community — giving fabric scraps, jars, tiles, paper, and other everyday items a second life as art.” All are welcome at Saturday’s open house, free to attend, but they’re requesting registration here.
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