Seastside Newsletter #69

Bellevue:

News:

• Council Roundup Office of Housing makes early progress: Bellevue's City Council met to review updates from the newly launched Office of Housing, which focuses on improving affordable housing strategies and homelessness outreach. The council expressed concerns over proposed sewer rate increases from King County, which could rise by 198% in 20 years, impacting local affordability. The council plans to send a letter to the King County Council outlining its position on the sewer rate proposal and advocating for clear rate transparency. Newly appointed councilmember Vishal Bhargava was sworn in, taking over the Position 1 seat vacated by John Stokes. The council also received mandatory open government training covering key public meeting laws. The full presentation and discussions are available for public viewing. (info)

• Bellevue named 2025 Frank Chopp Public Sector Champion by Housing Development Consortium: Bellevue was recognized as the 2025 Frank Chopp Public Sector Champion by the Housing Development Consortium for its dedication to affordable housing. The city established a new Office of Housing to address community housing needs. Director Bianca Siegl emphasized the importance of expanding affordable housing opportunities for residents. Bellevue's updated Comprehensive Plan aims to support 35,000 homes in transit-oriented areas over the next two decades. The City Council's Affordable Housing Strategy seeks to facilitate 5,700 new or preserved affordable homes within ten years, a 128% increase from its previous goal. This recognition highlights Bellevue's leadership in ensuring safe and affordable housing for all residents. (info)

• Military vehicle crashes off I-90 overpass in Bellevue: Two people were injured Saturday when a military Humvee towing a trailer crashed over a wall and fell 35 feet onto I-90 in Bellevue. Washington State Patrol said the eastbound vehicle drifted off the road and toppled from the overpass. No other vehicles were involved, and the trailer jackknifed but remained attached. Both occupants are recovering. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. (info)

Events:

• Tuesday Trivia at Evergreen Point Bistro on May 13th. (info)

• City Council Regular Meeting on May 13th. (info)

• The Old Bellevue Spring Wine Walk on May 15th. (info)

• Meydenbauer South Reservoir Community Meeting on May 15th. (info)

• Bellevue Farmers Market on May 22nd. (info)

Bothell & Kenmore:

News:

• Comcast RISE Grant Opportunity for King County Small Businesses: Comcast RISE is now accepting applications through May 31, 2025, offering grant packages to 100 small businesses in King County—including Kenmore. Each recipient will receive a $5,000 monetary grant, along with media, technology, and business support services. Open to independently owned businesses with under 100 employees and at least two years in operation, this initiative aims to promote local economic growth. Grants will be awarded in August 2025. Learn more and apply at www.ComcastRISE.com. (info)

• Bothell police search for missing 17-year-old Victor Man: Authorities in Bothell are seeking the public’s help in locating Victor Man, a 17-year-old who went missing on May 5 after leaving his home near 228th Street SW and 29th Drive SE. He left on foot without his phone or money and may be unable to return without help. Man is 5'9", 120 lbs, with brown eyes and black hair, and was last seen wearing a blue long-sleeved shirt, blue shorts, and black shoes. (info)

Events:

• Wine Wednesday at The Cottage on May 14th. (info)

• Community Workshop: Inclusive Playground, Park at Bothell Landing on May 17th. (info)

• Startup 425 - Startup & Small Business CoWorking on May 21st. (info)

• UW Bothell Block Party and Brewfest on May 31st. (info)

Fall City & Snoqualmie:

News:

• Don’t Get Caught Off Guard - SR 18 Closure at I-90 Begins May 15: The Washington State Department of Transportation will close State Route 18 in both directions under I-90 from 9 p.m. on May 15 until 5 a.m. on May 21. This closure affects a vital east-west corridor near Snoqualmie, prompting travelers to plan for delays. Drivers must use I-90 on-ramps for eastbound and westbound traffic, with no left turns allowed at the I-90 off-ramps. The closure supports construction on a diverging diamond interchange, which requires dry weather and may be rescheduled if necessary. Freight traffic is advised to avoid local streets unsuitable for semi-trucks. (info)

• Bridge Work to Bring SR 202 and 203 Lane Closures in Fall City and Carnation Starting May 12: Starting May 12, travelers on State Routes 202 and 203 in Fall City and Carnation will experience weekday single-lane closures from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The closures will occur at SR 202 near Southeast 46th Street, Southeast Fish Hatchery Road, and SR 203 at 324th Way Northeast. Crews from the Washington State Department of Transportation will perform bridge work, including the installation of fencing and sealants. These bridges replace culverts that previously obstructed fish passage. Flaggers will alternate traffic to maintain flow during construction. (info)

• North Bend City Council Votes to Shift Police Services from Snoqualmie to King County Sheriff’s Office: The North Bend City Council voted unanimously to authorize Mayor Mary Miller to negotiate a police services agreement with the King County Sheriff’s Office, concluding a 14-year collaboration with the Snoqualmie Police Department. Councilmembers raised concerns about fiscal transparency and governance, despite Snoqualmie's proposal being more cost-effective. Public comments revealed varied opinions, with some residents advocating for the established trust and service continuity offered by Snoqualmie. Supporters of the transition highlighted the Sheriff’s Office's extensive resources and specialized units. Snoqualmie's leaders expressed disappointment at losing the partnership but reaffirmed their commitment to public safety. The decision reflects a significant shift in North Bend's approach to public safety and governance. (info)

• Mona Davis Named Snoqualmies New Community and Economic Development Director: Mona Davis will begin her role as Snoqualmie's Community and Economic Development Director on May 1, 2025, following a unanimous approval by the City Council. With over 25 years of experience in planning and land use, Davis previously served as the Community Development Director for Black Diamond. A resident of the Snoqualmie Valley for over two decades, she is committed to engaging with local residents and businesses. Mayor Ross praised Davis as a great fit for the city due to her extensive professional experience and local knowledge. Davis expressed her excitement about serving the community during her appointment. The official oath of office was administered by Mayor Ross on April 30 at a local volunteer appreciation event. (info)

Events:

• Prairie Restoration Site Walk with MFPA and the Snoqualmie Tribe on May 14th. (info)

• SnoValley Innovation Center Meet-up on May 16th. (info)

• Yard Waste Recycling Event on May 17th. (info)

• 'Crow Strut' Corks & Canvas @ Sigillo Cellars on May 21st. (info)

• Community Cleanups on May 21st. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Jojo’s Café coming to Front Street: Jojo’s Café is opening soon in the former Subway location on Front Street, offering coffee and sweet treats. The neighboring vacant space at 96 Front Street will also be home to a new restaurant, reviving downtown Issaquah’s food scene. (info)

• Nick’s Magnificent Playplace opens immersive indoor playground: Nick’s Magnificent, a new indoor play space on M Street near Gilman Boulevard, is now open. Designed for younger children, the space features a tiny town setup including a city hall, fire trucks, and themed play zones. It also includes a café area for parents, with plans to serve beer and wine. (info)

• Spotlight: Citrine Design Shop and Facet Modern Merkantile thrive in Gilman Village: Citrine Design Shop and its sister store Facet Modern Merkantile offer a curated mix of small-batch, international pantry goods, handmade ceramics, home items, and apparel. Owner Adia praises Gilman Village’s supportive business environment and is co-developing a self-guided creative district tour with neighboring business Aram. (info)

Events:

• Volunteer Opportunity: Restoration on Squak Mountain on May 15th. (info)

• Klahanie Annual Garage Sale on May 16th. (info)

• Workshop: Paper Flowers on May 16th. (info)

• Issaquah Adult Softball League starts on May 27th. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Kirkland City Council Recap – May 6, 2025: The Kirkland City Council extended the development agreement for the Kirkland Urban project and selected a developer for a new ice-skating, restaurant, and community center at the former Houghton Park and Ride site. Council also reviewed plans for a dedicated sexual assault legal advocate and evaluated 2025 Neighborhood Safety Program projects. Mayor Kelli Curtis issued proclamations recognizing Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Affordable Housing Week, Bike Everywhere Month, and Older Americans Month. During the study session, the Council discussed legal challenges regarding King County’s Northeast Recycling and Transfer Station and received an update on the Juanita Bay Wildflower Pilot Project. (info)

• Celebrate Kirkland Parade Returns July 4: Kirkland’s cherished 4th of July tradition is back with the Celebrate Kirkland Parade set for Friday, July 4, 2025, in downtown Kirkland. The festivities begin with kids’ decorating stations at Lakeshore Plaza, followed by a kids’ parade at 11:30 a.m. and the main parade at noon. This year’s event features community floats, performances, food trucks, and a tribute to veterans, but will not include fireworks. Mayor Kelli Curtis emphasized the event’s role in fostering community spirit. Road closures and parking restrictions will be in effect. (info)

Events:

• 2025 State of the City Address and Community Appreciation Night on May 13. (info)

• Tea with Transportation on May 14th. (info)

• Co-Working and Business Advising on May 14th. (info)

• Free Paper Shredding and Paint Disposal on May 17th. (info)

• Guns for Gift Cards on May 17th. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Eight Mercer Island City Council candidates submit filings: Eight candidates have filed to run for Mercer Island City Council ahead of the Nov. 4 general election, with a primary set for Aug. 5. Incumbents Ted Weinberg (Position 4) and Lisa Anderl (Position 6) seek re-election, with Weinberg running unopposed. Anderl faces challengers Johana Beresky and Ted Yackulic. Adam Ragheb and Julie Hsieh are vying for Position 7, while Daniel Becker and Kristine Richardson are contesting Position 2. In Legislative District 41, Rep. Janice Zahn (D) will face Vinita Kak (D) and John Whitney (R) in the primary. (info)

• Meyer Brahm and Bon to speak at May 20 Mercer Island Rotary meeting: Former city councilmember and historian Jane Meyer Brahm and Mercer Island City Manager Jessi Bon will speak at the Mercer Island Rotary Club’s meeting on May 20 at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center. Brahm will share Island history, while Bon will present factual information about the proposed city capital bond set for a November vote. The meeting begins at 12:30 p.m., with socializing from noon. Attendance is free, with an optional $25 Pogacha-catered lunch. (info)

• Crews work on Town Center projects while Mercer Island awaits light rail: As Sound Transit’s East Link light rail prepares to arrive later this year, Mercer Island crews are completing Town Center pedestrian and safety upgrades. Projects include new sidewalks, ADA-accessible curb ramps, traffic signal improvements, and a raised intersection to slow traffic near the light rail station. A new commuter parking lot at the former Tully’s site on Sunset Highway will offer 35 stalls, bike storage, and landscaping by June. The city’s upgrades aim to ensure safe, accessible access for pedestrians and cyclists. (info)

Events:

• Spring Plant ID Walk at Pioneer Park on May 15th. (info)

• Mercer Island Rotary Meeting on May 20th. (info)

• Blood Drive Bloodworks NW on May 28th. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Seattle's light rail extension officially opens in Redmond, WA: On May 10, Redmond celebrated the official opening of Sound Transit’s 2 Line light rail extension with a ceremony at the new Downtown and Marymoor Village stations. The extension enhances regional access and connects Redmond’s residential and retail core with Marymoor Park via new pedestrian bridges and trails. Community leaders and residents gathered to mark the milestone, which advances long-term plans for broader transit expansion in the Puget Sound region. (info)

• 2 new trails connect Redmond transit station to King County park: King County Parks has opened two new trails linking the Redmond light rail station to Marymoor Park, improving access to the county’s largest park and regional trail system. The Marymoor Station Trail provides a direct route for visitors, while the Bear Creek Trail Bridge offers a safer crossing between the East Lake Sammamish and Redmond Central Connector Trails. Funded by a voter-approved levy, the new infrastructure eliminates a previous 0.7-mile detour across 11 lanes of traffic, supporting bike access and encouraging recreational use of the area via transit. (info)

Events:

• Aussies & Kiwis in Seattle – Cuppa and Chat (Redmond) on May 16th. (info)

• Redmond Town Center Exotics Car Show on May 17th. (info)

• OneEastside Economic Outlook on May 21st. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Renton, WA police, SWAT involved in shooting that injured 2: Renton police and Valley SWAT officers were involved in a shooting on May 9 while attempting to arrest a suspect connected to a prior shooting. The incident occurred near Southeast 168th Street and 116th Avenue Southeast in the Fairwood area. Three people were injured—two of whom were hospitalized—but no officers were harmed. The earlier shooting, which occurred the night before, left an 18-year-old in critical condition. The King County Independent Force Investigative Team is now investigating the officer-involved shooting. (info)

Events:

• 10th Annual Renton Career Fair on May 14th and 15th. (info)

• Animal Control Pet Adoption on May 17th. (info)

• Renton Recreation Safety Fest on May 17th. (info)

• StartUp 425 Business Networking Event on May 22nd. (info)

• Memorial Day Ceremony on May 26th. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Louis Thompson Tightline and Citywide Traffic Projects Begin in Sammamish: Crews will install storm drainage structures along Louis Thompson Road from May 12–June 20, prompting 24/7 one-way traffic southbound only between SE 5th Street and East Lake Sammamish Parkway. Detours will be in place for northbound traffic, but driveway access, school buses, mail, and garbage service will remain uninterrupted. Additional stormwater pipe inspections will occur on 212th Avenue SE and SE 29th Street with minor traffic delays. PSE’s gas main replacement continues on multiple roads, bringing daytime lane disruptions. Citywide traffic counts with tubes and cameras run through May 12. (info)

• Eastlake and Skyline unify for a special night: Eastlake High School hosted its annual Unified Basketball Game on April 23, bringing together transition students and peer tutors from Eastlake and rival Skyline High. Founded in 2017, the event pairs students with disabilities with general education peers for a semester of training in preparation for the game, promoting inclusion and celebration. With hundreds in attendance, the night featured drills, team bonding, and cheers from a packed crowd. Teachers and students described the event as one of the most heartwarming and impactful traditions at Eastlake. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on May 13th. (info)

• Coffee and Connections on May 13th. (info)

• Rig-A-Palooza on May 17th. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Trader Joe’s signs lease in Woodinville, opening expected late 2025: Woodinville Mayor Mike Millman announced that Trader Joe’s has signed a lease to open its first store in the city, likely at the former Rite Aid site on NE Woodinville-Duvall Road. While the company has not formally confirmed the location, city officials say permitting is expected to begin soon. The new store will join a shopping center featuring Ulta Beauty, T.J. Maxx, and HomeGoods. Trader Joe’s recently opened another location in Seattle and continues expanding across western Washington. (info)

Events:

• 4 Stitch Trivia Night on May 14th. (info)

• Stand Up Comedy Night @ Page Cellars on May 17th. (info)

• Planning Commission Meeting on May 26th. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• The Hollywood Tavern – Woodinville, WA: This historic tavern, established in 1947, offers a cozy atmosphere with its fire pit and rustic charm. Known for its inventive craft cocktails and hearty tavern fare, it's a perfect spot to unwind after exploring Woodinville's wine country. Don't miss their Beecher's Mac and Cheese—it's a local favorite.

• Sing Tong Thai Cuisine – Renton, WA: Sing Tong Thai Cuisine delivers authentic Thai flavors in a warm and inviting setting. Their Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup are standout dishes, praised for their balance of spice and flavor. With generous portions and attentive service, it's a go-to spot for Thai food enthusiasts.

Vibes:

• This week, Bellevue is embracing classic Pacific Northwest spring vibes—think layers, light rain, and the occasional sunbreak. Monday and Tuesday bring mostly cloudy skies with a chance of scattered showers and highs in the low to mid-60s. Wednesday sees a slight dip in temperatures to around 61, with continued cloud cover and a chance of light rain. Thursday and Friday remain overcast, with highs in the mid-50s to low 60s and intermittent showers. The weekend continues the trend with mostly cloudy skies and a few showers, with temperatures hovering around 60.

• If you would like to unsubscribe to the advertisements, please click here.