West Seattle, Washington
08 Monday
Three weeks after the first King County case of COVID-19 was announced, here are the toplines from a busy Friday:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From today’s Seattle-King County Public Health news release:
Public Health—Seattle & King County is reporting the following confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 through 11:59 p.m. on 3/19/20.
793 confirmed cases (up 100 from yesterday)
67 confirmed deaths (up 7 from yesterday)These additional deaths include:
A man in his 80s, who died on 3/19
A woman in her 90s, who died on 3/17
A man in his 70s, who died on 3/18
A woman in her 80s. who died on 3/18
A woman in her 70s, whose date of death has not been confirmed
A man in his 70s, who died on 3/19 at Valley Medical Center
A woman in her 60s, who died on 3/19 at Harborview Medical CenterOf the 67 deaths reported, 35 are confirmed to be associated with Life Care Center of Kirkland.
One week ago tonight, it was 328 cases and 32 deaths in King County.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: 1,524 cases, 83 deaths; other state stats here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: See them – nation by nation – here.
GOVERNOR SAYS BEHAVE OR ELSE: Gov. Inslee had an announcement to make this afternoon, but – as covered here – it was NOT an order to “shelter in place.” But he said that’s still in his toolbox if need be, so he pleaded with people who aren’t obeying existing health orders to please stop that because lives are at risk. (The actual announcement was new protection for elevated-risk workers to be able to stay home without losing their jobs.)
MAYOR AND COUNTY EXEC ANNOUNCE PARK RESTRICTIONS: This went public right after the governor’s plea – no more playground or sport court use, among other things, say Mayor Jenny Durkan and King County Executive Dow Constantine. (But taking a walk is OK. Here are some places to explore.)
METRO WON’T CHARGE YOU: Even before those service cuts kick in Monday, Metro will stop collecting fares tomorrow, while also having almost everyone board through the rear doors. Water Taxi will be free too. Here are the details.
SOUND TRANSIT TOO: It’s also suspending fare collection on its buses and trains.
HOW FAITH-BASED ORGANIZATIONS ARE COPING: King County Executive Dow Constantine hosted a media briefing today at which representatves of several faith traditions/cultural organizations spoke. (Our favorite quote, “Surely after difficulty comes ease.”) Here’s the video:
This weekend we’ll have another roundup of churches’ Sunday plans – let us know what yours is doing!
WAYS TO HELP: For more than a week, many people have been yearning to help. More ways to do that emerged today. Be a pen pal! Donate protective equipment! There was also a request for help sewing masks – but that filled up fast. Also – here’s a new umbrella site to help coordinate assistance.
SAFE BEEF: Seen outside Meat the Live Butcher in South Delridge:
SPEAKING OF FOOD: Still adding to our restaurant/beverage business “open for takeout and/or delivery” list – lots of updates to do tonight right after we publish this roundup. (We’re still updating our grocery-store-hours list, too.)
GOT NEWS? westseattleblog@gmail.com or text/voice 206-293-6302 – thank you!
If you have extra personal protection equipment to donate so those on the COVID-19 pandemic front lines can be adequately protected – coordinated collection events are under way. Thanks to the readers who were first to spot both of these sites where you can sign up !
CITY OF SEATTLE SURVEY: Sign up here if you have something to donate. The form asks about:
Basic Isolation Masks
N95 Masks
P100 Masks
Surgical Masks
Eye wear
Disposable Gowns
Gloves
As explained here, donors who sign up there will be contacted for coordination of pickup or dropoff. Questions? PPEdonations@seattle.gov
UNION-LED EFFORT: Unopened boxes of masks (preferably N95), gowns, eye protection, and gloves are sought by this drive (or other medical equipment that might be offered) – read more and sign up here.
While Governor Inslee is NOT issuing a “shelter in place” order, so far (as reported here earlier), there’s a brand-new city/county order to further restrict use of parks – just in:
To follow COVID-19 social distancing guidelines established by Public Health—Seattle & King County and the Washington Department of Health, King County Parks and Seattle Parks and Recreations are closing sports courts, playground equipment, and other active recreation areas where it could be difficult to maintain recommended social distancing guidelines.
Ballfields and playfields are open for walking and other non-team activities.
The closure includes picnic shelters, basketball and tennis courts, ballfields, and other active recreation locations. Parks, natural lands, regional trails, backcountry trails, and beaches where social distancing can be maintained remain open.
Pick-up games, picnics, and other large gatherings will not be permitted.
Restrooms within parks will continue to be open to the public, and will be cleaned and sanitized frequently.
Read the rest of the announcement, including reminders about social distancing on trails, by going here.
P.S. This means what we wrote about this morning – finding less-crowded local parks with lots of room to wander – still applies. The city and county are NOT closing the parks – just specific parts/uses, like playgrounds and sports.
4:39 PM: In the live video above, Governor Inslee is briefing media on what was described in advance as an announcement “to lay out new protections for at-risk employees during the COVID-19 outbreak.” We’ll update as it goes; we’re also dialed into the media audio line in case the video falters.
He’s not issuing “legally binding orders,” he says, but could if people don’t act responsibly. “We remain concerned that some in our state” are not taking this seriously. “Everyone needs to change their behavior …. if we are to avoid significant loss of life. … And I mean EVERYONE. … If anyone is living a normal life today, we are not doing what we need to do to save lives in this state.” He is “pleading with you to stay home unless it is necessary for you to go out.” He says, “We have got to be serious about this virus. … We’ve got to change the way we do business and run our family life in this state.”
Inslee notes that workers over 65 and with other vulnerabilities should “have a legal right to leave the workplace to protect their life … and have the financial means to do that” and to be able to get their jobs back when it’s safe. So he’s working on a proclamation to make that possible. “Employers need to (be able to protect those workers) right now.” He says employers must make workplaces safe for ALL employees.
And if there’s “someone older” in your family, he continues, “call them tonight” and tell them not to go out any more unless they absolutely have to. “It’s just too dangerous right now.” He adds, “While it’s a time to minimize physical connectivity, it’s a time to maximize emotional connectivity.”
4:50 PM: He says it’s up to everyone in the state to be “a leader” in stopping the virus from spreading. He says what’s been done so far has “made some progress…. but we have not done enough.” He’s showing data/stats. First, traffic: The Highway 99 tunnel, for one, has steadily declined to 61 percent of normal, and “we need it to continue to go down.” But some other routes around Puget Sound, like the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, are only down a quarter – or less.
He shows that 20,742 tests have been done – 7 percent positive, 93 percent negative, but he says “the risk of an enormous explosion of this virus remains real.”
Inslee also says the feds are sending masks, respirators, gowns, and gloves for health-care providers.
4:56 PM: Q&A – first question, will the April special election be postponed? The governor has not yet decided. Second – the governor has not ordered a statewide shelter in place, why not? He says, the closures already announced have accomplished a lot of what that would do, so they are evaluating day to day on whether more is necessary – he doesn’t want to completely shut down the supply chain, essential services, etc. “We are evaluating whether we think we can achieve the goal of avoiding massive loss of life” by doing what’s already been ordered. But it’s up to everyone to be “volunteers” in following existing orders. Those orders include the one he issued yesterday about postponing elective surgery and non-urgent procedures to help with the existing burden on the medical system.
But he gets back to the “behave or else” admonition: “If we’re not cutting the mustard, there could be further orders coming,” then specifically calling out “those folks at Alki Beach” (as we and others have shown, this week) and saying if they’re young people, their parents need to talk to them. What metrics would trigger a change of mind? he’asked. Reply: There’s not just one. Troubling stats include the aforementioned “mixed results” in traffic and an increase in ER admissions for people with respiratory symptoms. “This virus has thrown some curveballs,” he warns. What about Boeing and the workers who want the Everett plant to close? he is asked. His reply reiterates the protections for at-risk employees, but also an acknowledgment of the economic risk of doing something like that.
5:13 PM: It’s over. Again – ***NO*** shelter-in-place order … for now … the governor pleads with people to do what’s already been ordered. We’ll add the archived video above when it’s available.
4:21 PM: A quick interruption in the serious news … The West Seattle Turkey has headed south today! Above, David sent that photo from Gatewood, shortly after we got a call from Scott, in that same area, startled to find The Turkey outside his house. Earlier, a texter sent the next pic after TWST turned up outside Sound & Fog in The Junction:
When The Turkey first turned up in West Seattle eleven months ago, it headed north from Seola to Admiral, but most sightings since then have been on the east/south side of Admiral. Thanks as always for the sighting reports!
ADDED 6:07 PM: Ray sent this pic from Morgan Junction:
Three West Seattle Crime Watch notes this afternoon:
STOLEN CAR: From Will:
Earlier today I was leaving my apartment complex The Overlook At Westridge at 600 SW Kenyon st to go shopping for my parents when I realized someone had stolen my car from my apartments parking lot. I have contacted the police and was hoping to get any help I can spreading the word. I have attached a photo of the car; it is a black 1997 Subaru Legacy GT.
The license plate is BIU3459.
Call 911 if you see it.
VAPE STORE BURGLARY: Thanks to the texter who sent the photo and asked about the police response in the 9000 block of Delridge Way SW early today:
We followed up with SPD. The vape shop was broken into around 4 am. Witnesses saw four suspects, described only as wearing hoodies and backpacks, running away northbound on 21st SW. They dropped some items along the way and left a hammer inside the store, apparently after using it to break in. Officers searched the area but no one was found.
ABANDONED BICYCLES: The photo is from Neil in North Admiral, who says they were dumped in his yard overnight:
Yours? Let us know and we will connect you.
1:37 PM: In addition to Metro schedule changes starting Saturday, another big change announced, starting tomorrow, for buses and the Water Taxi. Here’s the announcement:
Effective with the start of service Saturday, March 21, riders will not be required to pay fare when riding King County Metro services, including buses, water taxi and Access paratransit, until further notice.
Riders also will be directed to board and exit at the rear doors of buses, reserving front-door access for customers using mobility devices or who require use of the boarding ramp.
“As this crisis evolves, we are constantly reviewing all of our practices and policies to provide the best service while keeping people safe,” said Executive Constantine. “Changing how riders board and exit our bus fleet and also suspending all fares is part of that effort. It is essential to keep this community on the move, and I thank all the operators, mechanics, support staff, and riders who are helping us get through this, together.”
These moves acknowledge the direction of public health to take steps necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19 and we continue to call on riders to do all they can by avoiding traveling when sick, covering coughs and sneezes.
Metro is relaying these planned changes to our partners at Sound Transit and the City of Seattle as they consider changes to ST Express bus service, Link light rail and Streetcar.
Metro is communicating this upcoming change with transit operators today and working to develop and install signage directing customers to board and exit at the rear doors unless and that fare payment is not required starting March 21.
We’re on the media call about the schedule change right now – any updates on that (the actual schedules are due out tomorrow), we’ll add.
2:38 PM: Some notes from the call- we asked why the 125 was deemed disposable – Metro managers said that it’s certainly not disposable but it’s a route that connects to no others and some of it is replicated by the 120 – so they are going to watch the 120 closely. They don’t expect to be making day to day changes but will assess weekly to see about re-evaluation. They are not planning any layoffs, though this will reduce revenue (farebox and sales tax total are down about $6 million a week). They say the schedule cuts will reduce the need for drivers and coaches by about 25 percent – that means they will be OK even if more are out sick. So far, no COVID-19 cases at Metro, they said.
ADDED 6:22 PM: Sound Transit is going fare-free too.
More West Seattle business updates:
KID FRIENDLY FOOTWEAR @ AGAIN & AGAIN (4832 California SW; WSB sponsor): From proprietor Sarah:
Kid Friendly Footwear @ Again & Again is working hard to find ways in these trying times to continue our 25 year tradition of serving families in our West Seattle community & beyond.
Our commitment to provide best value new & used Gear For All Seasons for kids including sandals, shoes & boots, excellent customer service & expert fitting for quality footwear does not change.
Long time customers know that we are always Mean About Clean. In order to help slow Covid19 spread, some of the ways we operate will now be a little different.
· We are now offering shopping by appointment throughout the week at your convenience, plus- limited open hours on weekends only. It’s easy to email Hello@KidFriendlyFootwear.com 24/7, or call 206-933-2060 to let us know best days/times and number in your party. We can often accommodate immediate same day-within-the-hour requests.
· No more than 10 people including all ages will be allowed to gather inside our shop at once, so we ask you to avoid bringing extra friends & family with, and, limit time shopping as much as possible.
· We have a handy onsite hand washing station (aka restroom with baby changing table) for all to use- early and often!
· We will not be able to give hands on shoe measuring / foot fitting now, but, are happy to thoroughly guide that process from a distance of at least 6 feet away.
· We no longer require signature for credit card payments. The terminal & other surfaces that have been touched are disinfected per CDC guidelines.
· $4.99 flat rate shipping for online orders www.KidFriendlyFootwear.com or via phone.
· Free delivery can be arranged within a 5 mile radius of the shop in West Seattle
· Sorry no more play table toys for little fidgeters or outdoor ½ price rack for now ☹
We hope to see or hear from you soon and sincerely wish good health to all our families, friends & neighbors as well as for the Earth & all its creatures too. hello@kidfriendlyfootwear.com 206-933-2060
MEEPLES GAMES (California/Charlestown): From co-proprietor Brian:
Meeples Games is open for retail with reduced business hours of 11:30 am-7:00 pm weekdays, 10:00-7:00 this weekend. The café and play space is closed until further notice, and we are limiting the number of customers in the store. Curb-side pickup is available for orders and card payments taken over the phone (206.535.7896). We have great stay-at-home activities including games, books, puzzles, and painting supplies. We’ve posted a link to our inventory at www.meeplesgames.com so customers can see what is available.
BED BATH & BEYOND (Westwood Village): The store is closed as of today, at least temporarily:
Got West Seattle business info? Send it to westseattleblog@gmail.com or text/voice 206-293-6302 – thank you!
(WSB photo)
12:41 PM: A big response for a crash at 16th/Roxbury – reported as a vehicle into a building – roads are being blocked; avoid the area.
12:57 PM: This is on 16th a short distance north of Roxbury – we’ve added a photo. Firefighters tell us at the scene that one female victim has been taken to the hospital.
1:08 PM: Another angle above, this time a photo from SFD. They say the victim is in serious condition.
11:44 AM: Multiple readers flagged us to this – the health-care organization Providence is asking for volunteers to agree to sew at least 100 masks each. They’re providing the materials, but you need your own machine. So far their only announced pickup location is in Renton, but you can sign up for notification when there’s something closer (considering that Providence does have facilities in West Seattle including The Mount). Interested? Sign up here.
2 PM: The list has since been filled up, readers report in comments below.
(WSB photo – Myrtle Reservoir Park, Thursday evening)
That’s the south side of Myrtle Reservoir Park – one of the West Seattle park/open space sites where you can go and enjoy the sun while keeping at a safe distance from your fellow parkgoers. After all the discussion about Alki crowds this week – and looking ahead at a rainless weekend – we thought spotlighting other spacious areas might be helpful. Myrtle, for example, has walkways and open fields, next to (and over) water-storage facilities. It’s at 35th/Myrtle – and as you can see on the map, Walt Hundley Playfield, one block east at 34th/Myrtle, is spacious too .
Further south, the Southwest Athletic Complex – which is actually a Seattle Public Schools facility – stretches from the stadium (2801 SW Thistle) westward to the big open field where Denny International Middle School used to be. If you want a north-facing water view, Jack Block Park (2130 Harbor SW) – which is a Port of Seattle site – has lots of walkways and overlooks – though some repair work might still be under way. The lodge at Camp Long (5200 35th SW) is closed but the park has trails and a big open field. Those are just a few of many alternatives to the most-popular spots. More recommendations? Please add yours below!
SIDE NOTE: The definitive guide to Seattle parks was written by one of your neighbors, West Seattleite Linnea Westerlind – we featured her book “Discovering Seattle Parks: A Local’s Guide” when it was published in 2017. She also has a website, Year of Seattle Parks. If you don’t already have her book, you might check with one of West Seattle’s independent booksellers – both selling books via pickup and delivery!
Here’s something kids can do – adults too – to help seniors, who are isolated more than ever in an attempt to keep them safe. Natalie from The Kenney sent this announcement:
Are you wanting to make a difference and brighten a senior’s day during this difficult time, without much effort or money? We are looking for volunteers to join The Kenney Pen Pal Program. You can connect with our community’s wonderful seniors, whether you’re young or old. You can bring joy and happiness to a resident, while keeping them safe in their apartment at The Kenney!
How to participate:
1. Start by writing a handwritten letter introducing yourself and asking the resident questions about themselves.
2. Mail letter to “My Future Pen Pal” at the address below:
7125 Fauntleroy Way SW
Seattle, WA 98136-20083. Please include an address for the resident to mail back their return letter.
4. The Kenney staff will assign each resident wanting to participate a pen pal and will help residents send their letters back out to their pen pals.
We’re building a West Seattle “how to help” list – if you have something for it, westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
Can’t stop the music – West Seattle’s Mode Music Studios (WSB sponsor) is taking its lessons online! You can support the arts and support local business, as Mode explains in the video above, and below:
Local musicians are suffering with venue closure and event and tour cancellations. We are doing our part to make sure our local musicians are employed throughout this time. Shows and service industry jobs have taken a major hit and this is a way you can show your support to the music community.
Mode Music Studios employs over 50 musicians and teaching artists in the local Seattle scene. Sign up now for private music lessons (piano, voice, ukulele, guitar, bass, drums, violin, viola, cello, trumpet, trombone, French horn, accordion, banjo and more) at modemusicstudios.com and support our local nonprofit Mode Music and Performing Arts with our group Theatre, Dance and Music enrichment programs at modemusicandperformingarts.org.
You can email welcome@modemusicstudios.com or call 206-659-4018.
(SDOT MAP with travel times/ Is the ‘low bridge’ closed? LOOK HERE/ West Seattle-relevant traffic cams HERE)
7:29 AM: Good morning. The daily cameras are above, for those still commuting, or just interested in traffic volumes.
METRO CUTS AHEAD: Most routes will be on new reduced schedules Monday; Metro expects to post those schedules tomorrow. The 125 will be entirely dropped TFN.
Thanks for the photos!
First, two sunset scenes … above, from Robin Sinner; below, from Jan Pendergrass:
Next, from Gary Potter of longtime WSB sponsor Potter Construction, his neighborhood’s “6-foot happy hour” tonight:
And last but by no means least, from Richard Hill:
If you could use something to look forward to … the next change of seasons, the summer solstice, will be on June 20th.
Sent by Shawn:
I live in Sunrise Heights and I had a small fiberglass camper stolen out of the alley sometime early morning of the 18th. I wanted to report to you that even with everything going on right now, an officer arrived about 15 minutes after I called the non-emergency line to take a report. Luckily it had a flat tire, and no spare, so he said it probably couldn’t have gotten far and may leave marks in the road. He said he’d take a quick drive around to see if he could find it. About 15 minutes later, I received a call that it had been found about a half-mile away. It was near a van that a neighbor said showed up a couple nights earlier but did not belong to anyone living nearby and was filled with stuff and had a broken window. Not sure if it was a coincidence or if it was connected but the police were having it impounded. I wanted to share how thankful and impressed I was for the quick resolution and hard work done by the SPD even with all that is going on right now.
Here’s our nightly quick digest of what happened today, 20 days after King County reported its first COVID-19 case – some of which we’ve already reported, some of which we have not:
NEWEST KING COUNTY NUMBERS: From the daily Seattle-King County Public Health news release:
Public Health – Seattle & King County is reporting the following confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 through 11:59 p.m. on 3/18/20.
693 confirmed cases (up 131 from yesterday)
60 confirmed deaths (up 4 from yesterday)These additional deaths include:
A man in his 60s, who died on 3/18
A woman in her 80s, who died on 3/14
A woman in her 90s, who died on 3/17 at Overlake Medical Center
A woman in her 70s, who died on 3/17 at Overlake Medical CenterOf the 60 deaths reported, 35 are confirmed to be associated with Life Care Center of Kirkland.
For comparison, the King County numbers one week ago were 270 cases, 27 deaths.
STATEWIDE NUMBERS: 1,376 cases, 74 deaths; other state stats here.
WORLDWIDE NUMBERS: See them – nation by nation – here.
GOVERNOR’S NEW ORDERS: Today’s new restrictions – no non-urgent dental or medical procedures. The proclamation goes through mid-May and mentions that protection equipment must be conserved so that those who really need it can get it.
FIRST RESPONDERS IN QUARANTINE: A city website post about a new COVID-19 testing site for first responders ends with this information:
As of March 19, 24 SFD members are currently either in quarantine (if asymptomatic) or isolation (showing symptoms) as a precaution. There are 60 Seattle Police employees in quarantine, and one is in isolation. They remain on leave until 14 days from their initial exposure have passed. Those who develop symptoms can now be tested at this new designated location.
Since the beginning of tracking COVID-19 responses, 45 SFD members have been impacted; 21 have completed their 14-day quarantine and have been approved to return to work. The department wants to stress the importance of the public relaying if they have a cough, fever or difficulty breathing when calling 911 for something other than COVID-19 (i.e. fall or vehicle collision), to allow personnel to respond with the appropriate protective equipment.
METRO SERVICE CUTS: More details just announced, but the new schedules won’t be out until Saturday, Metro says.
HOW TO HELP – BLOOD DRIVE UPDATE: A March 27th blood drive that was going to happen outside West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor) has been moved, and if you signed up for it, you need to reregister – here’s the explanation.
HOW TO HELP – WEST SEATTLE FOOD BANK: This morning we published an update from WSFB, including a reminder that what they need most is MONEY. (And they’re grateful for everyone who’s helped already!)
HOW TO HELP – CHEER UP BRIDGE PARK RESIDENTS: Here’s a suggestion from the daughter of a resident at the High Point senior-living complex that’s had 3 COVID-19 cases.
LOCAL BUSINESS UPDATES: We continue updating and adding to the restaurant/beverage-business list. Today, we also had two roundups of updates from other local businesses – here and here. Meantime, the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce has this business-resources webpage up and running.
SAVING THE SALMON: ff schools were open, hundreds of local students would be learning about salmon by raising fry to release in Fauntleroy Creek. Here’s what’s happening instead.
TOMORROW: So far, one local government official has a public event scheduled on Friday:
King County Executive Dow Constantine and Public Health – Seattle & King County Director Patty Hayes will join representatives from faith communities to call for unity while maintaining social distancing recommendations. Faith-based leaders will share their actions for modeling modified religious practices and gatherings in their communities while serving as critical sources of support in King County.
The 10 am event will be livestreamed here.
GOT INFO? westseattleblog@gmail.com or text/voice 206-293-6302, any time.
As first noted early today, Metro is cutting service starting Monday. The next wave of details just went public, including one West Seattle route being dropped entirely, the 125:
Metro continues to prioritize the safety of its passengers, employees, and community members with the implementation of its new Reduced Schedule starting March 23. Under this temporary Reduced Schedule, buses will run less frequently throughout the day. Bus service may also start later in the morning and end earlier in the evening. Some routes will not operate and nearly all routes will see individual trip cancelations.
There will be additional changes to routes and times that take effect on Saturday, March 21 as part of Metro’s regular Spring Service Change. The Spring Service Change brings Eastside riders better bus connections, and improved access to Seattle via transfer between buses and Link light rail at UW Station.
The Reduced Schedule is in response to reduced ridership since the emergence of COVID-19. These service reductions are also designed to maintain a resilient and sustainable transit system that’s able to keep our region moving every day and to ramp back up when this chapter closes.
The Reduced Schedule means that online customer information planning tools and third-party apps may be increasingly inaccurate for Metro and Sound Transit services. While these tools will be updated to the Spring Service Change schedule, they will not reflect Metro’s temporary Reduced Schedule or Sound Transit’s reductions.
Many of Metro’s riders have heeded the steps advised by leaders and public health officials in recent weeks to limit the spread of novel coronavirus by teleworking and avoiding traveling. Bus ridership on Wednesday, March 18, for example, was 60% less than a comparable day in 2019—a reduction of 250,000 passengers.
While many of Metro’s passengers may have other transportation options and choose transit, many others rely more heavily—or exclusively—upon transit, so decisions on where and when to reduce service were not made lightly. Metro has designed reductions to maintain some service on as many routes as possible, acknowledging that people rely on these routes to access medical care, grocery stores, and other vital services. Metro is actively talking with community groups who represent populations more likely to depend on transit, including those that represent customers with accessibility challenges. Metro will remain engaged with those groups to understand their mobility needs and determine how best to serve them during this time.
This move follows Metro’s earlier public safety actions of transitioning to daily sanitization of coaches and transit vehicles/vessels, setting up a Department Operations Center to guide fast response, and temporarily closing in-person customer service offices in favor of phone and online options.
Temporary changes to service under Reduced Schedule (which goes into effect on Monday, March 23)
Under the Reduced Schedule, most Metro routes will see individual trip cancellations. Some routes will not operate, primarily during commute times and when options on other routes exist.
Routes without changes: 22, 105, 118, 119, 154
Routes with fewer bus trips and/or reduced hours of operation: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 21, 24, 26, 27, 28, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37, 40, 41, 43, 44, 45, 48, 49, 50, 55, 56, 57, 60, 62, 63, 64, 65, 67, 70, 71, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 101, 102, 106, 107, 111, 113, 114, 116, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 128, 131, 132, 143, 148, 150, 153, 156, 157, 158, 159, 164, 166, 167, 168, 169, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 186, 187, 190, 192, 193, 197, 212, 214, 216, 217, 218, 219, 221, 225, 226, 230, 231, 232, 239, 240, 241, 245, 246, 249, 252, 250, 255, 257, 268, 269, 271, 301, 303, 304, 311, 312, 316, 331, 342, 345, 346, 347, 348, 355, 372, 373, A Line, B Line, C Line, D Line, E Line, F Line, ST 522, ST 541, ST 542, ST 545, ST 550, ST 554, ST 555, ST 556, 907, 913, 931, 952, Des Moines Community Shuttle (635)
Routes fully cut: 9, 29, 47, 78, 125, 200, 208, 237, 308, 309, 330, 541, Black Diamond/Enumclaw Community Ride, Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Community Ride, Normandy Park Community Ride, Sammamish Community Ride, Juanita Community Ride, Bothell/Woodinville Community Ride, Mercer Island Community Shuttle (630).
Additionally, the following services and programs will not operate during Reduced Schedule (which goes into effect on Monday, March 23):
Community Ride
Via to TransitAt this time, the Access paratransit program will continue normal operations and will continue to follow its enhanced daily sanitization procedures.
Water Taxi and its two shuttles, routes 773 and 775, will continue to operate on their winter schedule through at least April 20, 2020.
Seattle Streetcar will operate on a reduced schedule starting on Monday, March 23.
First Hill Streetcar will operate with 15-minute headways Monday to Saturday during reduced service hours, 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. There are no changes to service hours on Sundays and holidays: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
South Lake Union Streetcar will not operate beginning March 23 and until further notice.
Most of the rest of the release involves non-Seattle service, followed by this info for all:
The Reduced Schedule means that online customer information planning tools and third-party apps may be increasingly inaccurate. While these tools will be updated to the Spring Service Change schedule, they may not reflect all temporary schedule changes in the Reduced Schedule. These systems may still provide useful information, such as maps and bus stop information.
First, riders should visit Metro’s Reduced Schedule page (starting Saturday, March 21) to confirm that their route is operating and view other details, then check to see if their desired trip is coming by using “Next Departures” in Metro’s online trip planner, or Text for Departures by texting your stop ID to 62550.
Information about Reduced Schedule changes can be viewed at kingcounty.gov/metro/ReducedSchedule including suggestions for alternate routes riders may want to consider.
Riders can also contact Metro Customer Information at 206-553-3000 Monday through Friday between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. or reach us on the web using our comment form for assistance.
Sound Transit’s Link and Sounder services and some ST Express bus routes are also reduced. Transferring riders should check soundtransit.org/ride-with-us/service-alerts.
Got questions? We’ll be on a media conference call tomorrow to follow up.
Lots of questions about why the windows are papered over at Talarico’s Pizzeria in The Junction. Obviously it’s not open for pickup/delivery – while many others are – but some worried that the covered windows meant something more. Tonight, we finally have the answer – after asking Phil Tavel, who has long hosted Wednesday night trivia, if he could find out. He did: “They are taking the opportunity to do a little work on the place and since they decided not to do takeout, it was just an easy way to make it clear they aren’t open. They will be back when the lockdown lifts. And trivia will be back as well.”
6:34 PM: At 8:49 pm, spring officially arrives – that’s the equinox moment. Right now, a West Seattle change-of-seasons tradition is happening as it has, four times a year for the past decade – West Seattle astronomy educator Alice Enevoldsen is leading her change-of-seasons sunset-watch event. But because of social distancing, it’s online this time – 6:30-7:30 pm, webcast via Zoom – click here to join. (Read more about her sunset watches here.)
7:20 PM: The webcast just wrapped up. We monitored the second half; about 20 others tuned in, and the sunset was spectacular. No recording but we added a screengrab above – her daughters assisting as always. If this had been a “normal” season-change sunset watch, Alice would have been at Solstice Park, explaining the equinox/solstice.
It was lovely! @westseattleblog Happy equinox! pic.twitter.com/I19uIUQl5W
— Alice's AstroInfo (@AlicesAstroInfo) March 20, 2020
ADDED: Photos, courtesy of Jason Enevoldsen:
The good news: Lots of interest in helping ensure blood is available. The not-as-good news: If you signed up for the March 27th drive at West Seattle Runner (WSB sponsor), you need to re-register – there’s a new location. WSR co-proprietor Tim McConnell explains:
The West Seattle Runner Blood Drive had to be moved, as Bloodworks Northwest could no longer have blood drives on their buses due to social distancing issues.
The event has been moved to the Combat Arts Academy of Seattle, 5050 Delridge Way SW. It is now listed as West Seattle Community Blood Drive, and is combining 3 different drives into this one day. Anyone who signed up for the drive in front of West Seattle Runner needs to reschedule for this new event, as all appointments have been cancelled.
The new link is schedule.bloodworksnw.org/DonorPortal/GroupLanding.aspx?s=437B
We appreciate everyone who signed up; we had more than 45 people schedule in less than 4 hours, such a great response! Please be sure to reschedule, as blood donations are at a critically low level.
Thanks, Lori and Tim – West Seattle Runner
New restrictions announced by the governor this afternoon:
Gov. Inslee announced new restrictions today on non-urgent medical and dental procedures so the state can make sure Washington health care workers have enough protective equipment to wear as they work the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today’s order applies to any non-urgent procedure that requires medical professionals to wear personal protective equipment.
This impacts all hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and dental, orthodontic and endodontic offices in Washington. The governor’s proclamation makes clear that this restriction does not apply to treatment for patients with emergency and urgent needs.
There are exceptions. For example, doctors can perform an elective surgery if delaying the surgery would cause harm to the patient within the next three months.
“We know the health care personal protective equipment supply chain in Washington has been severely disrupted by the significant increased use of such equipment worldwide,” Inslee said. “We will do all we can to protect the women and men who protect us.”
Banned procedures include (but are not limited to):
most joint replacements
most cataract and lens surgeries
non-urgent cardiac procedures
cosmetic procedures
some endoscopy
some interventional radiology servicesThis order does not apply to patients with heart attacks, strokes or motor vehicle accidents. Hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers may perform surgery as long as a delay or cancellation would worsen the patient’s condition. For example, the prohibition would not apply to a patient who needs a serious cancerous tumor removed, or a patient who needs their dentist to relieve pain or manage an infection.
Inslee encourages ambulatory surgery centers to work with their local hospitals and assist with surge capacity needs.
“We’ve come together to make intense sacrifices over the past week or two,” Inslee said. “And I thank all of you for what you’re doing. Today’s crucial announcement is another way we can protect the health of our communities and families, and slow the spread of this virus so our health care systems have a fighting chance to catch up and continue keeping us healthy.”
For more detailed information, we encourage practitioners to reach out to their specific associations, boards or commissions.
(Added) Commenter Rar noted that the news release above did not set an end date. Here’s the actual proclamation (PDF), which says, until May 18th.
Another collection of miscellaneous West Seattle business updates we’ve received (thank you!):
CANNA WEST SEATTLE (5440 California SW; WSB sponsor): Here’s an update on how things are working:
Canna West Seattle is now offering curbside pickup for its medical marijuana patients. The WSLCB has implemented emergency protocol to allow it to provide curbside service to MMJ patients and designated providers in order to offer options for social distancing for those that may have compromised immune systems. This is the process:
Place an order in person when they arrive, or over the phone or online via this Leafly link.
Make sure to bring extra cash in case the order is a little more than expected for any reason.
Make sure to bring MMJ Card and identification.
Canna has to serve customers on its property. Customers will call 206-466-1465 when they arrive and a representative will meet them at the bottom of the stairs.Those who are not MMJ patients or designated providers can also opt for a minimal contact in-store pickup. Those who take advantage of in-store pickup will be rewarded with 10% off their total order and 10 Loyalty points. Curbside service is open regular hours, 8:00 am – 11:30 pm daily.
WEST SEATTLE NURSERY (California/Brandon): The nursery sent this update for customers:
Our business has not been asked specifically to close, so for now, we will remain open. We want to help you enjoy the benefits of gardening at this difficult time, while making sure we are minimizing the risk for customers and employees. This is what we are doing …
Part of our decision to stay open was recognizing that most of our business is done outside in fresh air, which limits the opportunity for transmission. However, in keeping with Governor Inslee’s direction, we will limit the number of people inside our buildings to 10.
We have stepped up our cleaning efforts, including wiping down door handles and point-of-sale pads with disinfectant every hour.
If any of our employees feel ill, they are instructed to stay home. (They have paid time off.)
We encourage people to place phone orders. 206-935-9276 You can pick your order up at the nursery, or we will deliver. Remember that we deliver for free in West Seattle.
If you live with a family member who is ill, or you feel unwell, have a cough or fever, please do not come to the nursery. We can deliver to your home in West Seattle and leave your items in a spot that you designate so that you don’t have to come into contact with anyone.
Thank you for supporting local business. We appreciate your patience while we adjust to the nearly daily changes in health recommendations. Together, we will get through this.
ALKI BIKE & BOARD (2606 California SW; WSB sponsor): Speaking of limiting the number of people in a business – here’s the sign AB&B has up:
(Thanks to Clay Eals for sending the pic.)
FLOURISH BEAUTY, SPRUCE APOTHECARY, JUNIPER NAILS: From proprietor Tiann Stubblefield:
I’m the owner of 3 local West Seattle businesses for the last 6 years. I employ 33 women at all 3 shops. We are closed temporarily due to COVID-19.
Flourish Beauty – Salon & Spa – opened 5.5 years – employs 19 women
We are offering curbside pickup this Saturday 3/21 from 10-3. Call or email us to place your order for pickup. We have gift certificates available for purchase anytime via our websiteSpruce Apothecary – opened 1 year ago – employs 7 women
We have an online store www.spruceaopthecary.co and gift certificates are available for purchase.
We are a clean beauty and wellness lifestyle store + holistic spa studio
We are offering orders over the phone and curbside pickup and delivery. Our website is also functioning and we have a 2-day turnaround with processing order at this time.Juniper Nails – opened 4.5 years ago – employs 7 women
We are a natural nail salon. We have gift certificates available for purchase anytime via our website .
DE VRIEZE/CARNEY LAW OFFICES (3909 California SW): From Heather de Vrieze:
Our offices are OPEN. We are limiting in-person appointments, and carefully sanitizing regularly and between any visitors.
Wills and other estate planning can be even more important at times like these, and getting important tasks like this addressed can give peace of mind.
While it still takes in-person meetings to sign a Will, the initial planning and drafting process can be done remotely via email and phone communication. Might be the perfect project for folks to address while they are keeping safely distanced in their homes.
Got a business update? Let us know – westseattleblog@gmail.com – thank you!
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