Seastside Newsletter #27

July 22nd, 2024

Hello everyone! We hope you are all having a great summer so far. We want to share some local hidden gems for the rest of the summer newsletters, so please reply if you have any spots you’ve been loving.

If you want to help support the newsletter, please consider donating here!

Today’s Seastside includes:

• A brand new local deal

• Many traffic/construction updates

• Cadet program in Kirkland

Enjoy and if you have any questions please reply to this email!! - Mac and Preju

Seastside Exclusive Deals:

• 10% off your next car, boat or RV detail with Detail Kings NW! Mention the newsletter!

• 10% off your first painting job from Liike Home Painting. Mention the newsletter!

• 20% off any gym membership at Hustle Fit in Redmond. Mention Seastside or use code HUSTLE when signing up!

• 10% off at Anchovies & Salt in Renton - mention code ‘Beehiiv’

• In need of a handyman, real estate repairs, damage restoration or home remodeling? We Honey Do has offered all you readers an exclusive 5% off their services. Mention the Seastside newsletter to Eric! (info)

Bellevue:

News:

• Man assaulted with machete in downtown Bellevue, defends himself with bear spray: A 55-year-old man was attacked with a machete by a 66-year-old acquaintance in downtown Bellevue, allegedly over a stolen wallet. The victim used bear spray in self-defense and was later treated for his injuries. (info)

• WSDOT asks for patience as construction continues from Seattle to Bellevue and beyond: With several summer construction projects impacting drivers, WSDOT is working on widening I-405 from Bellevue to Renton, installing drainage equipment in Bellevue, and demolishing a bridge in Renton. Additional closures are planned for SR 520 and associated areas. (info)

• Trailhead Direct adds Eastgate Park and Ride stop: Starting July 20, King County’s transit-to-trails service will include a stop at Eastgate Park and Ride in Bellevue, providing easy access to Issaquah Alps and Mount Si trails. This addition aims to reduce parking congestion at trailheads and enhance hiking accessibility for Eastside residents. (info)

• Bellevue ramps up affordable housing plan: Bellevue has more than doubled its 10-year goal for affordable housing to 5,700 units. Mayor Lynne Robinson highlighted partnerships and initiatives to address homelessness and housing instability during the State of the City address. (info)

Events:

• Evening Nature Walk on July 26th at 8:30pm. (info)

• Storytime LIVE at Kiddie Academy of Bellevue on July 27th at 10am. (info)

• Batty Nights at Lewis Creek Park on July 27th at 8:30pm. (info)

Bothell/Kenmore:

News:

• Bothell council votes to donate downtown lot for affordable housing: On July 16, the Bothell City Council voted 5-2 to donate a 1.67-acre downtown lot to Bothell United Methodist Church for a 200-unit affordable housing project. Mayor Mason Thompson praised the decision, while Council members Jeanne Zornes and Benjamin Mahnkey raised concerns about the financial and timeline aspects. (info)

• Rechannelization on 68th Avenue from 175th Street to 181st Street: Starting in late July, rechannelization work will address safety and operational issues on 68th Avenue. Night closures are scheduled for July 22 and 23. The changes will include dedicated lanes for buses and right turns, new left-turn pockets, and additional downtown parking. (info)

Events:

• Kenmore Community Market on July 24th at 3pm. (info)

• Music in the Park on July 26th at 6pm. (info)

• Bluegrass Jam and Concert on July 28th at 2:30pm. (info)

Fall City/Snoqualmie:

News:

• Speed Limit Reduction on SR 202 to Enhance Safety for Residents and Wildlife: Starting soon, the speed limit on SR 202 between Mile Post 27.95 and Mile Post 29.60 will be reduced from 50 MPH to 40 MPH to address safety concerns due to increased traffic and wildlife crossings, particularly involving elk. This decision follows a speed study by WSDOT and unanimous approval by the city councils of North Bend and Snoqualmie. (info)

• Snoqualmie to Vote on Public Safety Tax Increase on August 6: On August 6, Snoqualmie voters will decide on Proposition 1, which proposes a 0.1% sales tax increase to fund public safety. If approved, the tax will generate approximately $226,000 in the first year, supporting the hiring and equipping of public safety personnel. The new tax rate would be effective January 1, 2025, raising the sales tax to 9.2%. Ballots must be submitted by August 6. (info)

• SR 18 Center Turn Lane at I-90 Closed Starting July 17: Starting July 17, SR 18 will be reduced to two lanes in each direction at the I-90 interchange near Snoqualmie, with the elimination of the center turn lane. A new traffic signal will assist drivers, and westbound lanes will shift left. (info)

Events:

• Music in the Park on July 25th. (info)

• Movie in the Park on August 1st. (info)

• Boeing Classic on August 10th-11th. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• Are you prepared to vote in the August 6 Primary: Voters’ pamphlets and ballots will be mailed on July 16/17, with ballot drop boxes opening on July 18. The last day to register or update voter information online is July 29, and in-person registration and ballot return is due by August 6. 

• Bricks & Minifigs set to open in Issaquah despite security concerns: Despite recent nationwide thefts targeting Lego products, Edward Highfield is opening his Bricks & Minifigs franchise on August 3. Highfield is implementing strong security measures and is excited to share his passion for Lego with the community, inspired by building with his 5-year-old daughter. (info)

Events:

• Chalk Art Festival on July 23rd at 12pm. (info)

• Gas Station Blue on July 25th at 7pm. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• City Flag Creation: The Council has adopted a new process for designing and creating a City Flag, aimed at fostering community pride and identity. (info)

• Zoning Code Amendments: Changes to the Kirkland Zoning Code were approved to guide future development on Goat Hill, focusing on improving land use and development regulations. (info)

• RapidRide K Line Survey: King County Metro is planning a new RapidRide K Line to connect Kirkland, Bellevue, and Eastgate Park-and-Ride by 2030. They’re seeking public input on route options and station locations through a survey and virtual public meetings. (info)

• Kirkland Cadet Program: The Kirkland Police Department is recruiting youth ages 14-20 for their Cadet Program. This initiative provides practical law enforcement training and community service opportunities, with benefits for senior projects and resumes. (info)

• Houghton Beach Park: Public Health – Seattle & King County has recommended avoiding water activities at Houghton Beach Park due to elevated bacteria levels. The rest of the park remains open, and further testing will be conducted to ensure safety. (info)

• Lake Washington Institute of Technology: The Early Learning Center now offers expanded childcare services for Kirkland residents and workers, available from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for children aged 1.5 to 6 years. (info)

• 124th Avenue Northeast: Southbound drivers cannot turn left onto NE 120th Street due to road widening and pedestrian facility enhancements. (info)

• Goat Hill: Northeast 116th Place will experience road closures for PSE’s work, affecting traffic patterns in the area. (info)

• Juanita Drive: One-lane reductions and a planned closure between NE 128th and NE 132nd Streets starting July 29 for road improvements. (info)

Events:

• Junior League Softball World Series: From July 28 to August 3 at Everest Park, featuring 10 teams of 12-14 year-olds competing in a week-long series. (info)

• Outdoor Summer Movie Series: Enjoy “Barbie” and “Mission Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One” at Juanita Beach Park on July 27. (info)

• Kirkland Health and Wellness Fair: Scheduled for September 28 at Juanita High School, offering free health screenings, flu shots, and community resources. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Homegrown Closes Seattle-Area Locations: Homegrown Partners LLC will shut down 10 of its Seattle-area restaurants by September 15 due to economic challenges, affecting 158 employees. The remaining locations in downtown Seattle and Mercer Island will stay open. (info)

• SPU Water Line Repair Update: The Seattle Public Utilities water line repair is nearing completion, with final testing and connection work expected to finish by early August. Flushing and disinfecting will follow to ensure water quality, and residents are asked to continue water conservation efforts. (info)

Events:

• Community Coffee on July 23rd from 9:30-11:30am. (info)

• Enjoy Harmonious Funk at Mostly Music in the Park on July 25th from 6:30-8:30pm. (info)

• Mahjong Monday on July 29th from 6-8:30pm. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Redmond Civil Service Commissioner Vacancy: The City of Redmond is seeking applicants for an open seat on its Civil Service Commission, responsible for public safety hiring and grievance appeals. Interested individuals should apply by June 30, 2024, and must meet specific qualifications including experience in public safety and the ability to make unbiased decisions. (info)

• Free Shredding Event in Redmond: Redmond residents can securely shred personal documents at a free city-sponsored event. Participants should bring up to five banker boxes of documents only, and remain in their vehicles for safety. Businesses are not eligible. (info)

• Structure Fire: Redmond police responded to a rare structure fire in Duvall. (info)

Events:

• No nonsense networking on July 23rd at 7:30am. (info)

• Ananda Mela: Joyful Festival of India on July 27/28. (info)

• Startup425 Eastside Summit (Seattle Tech Week). Aug. 1 from 1-5pm. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Patrick Zellner Honored as Grand Marshal: Patrick Zellner, who retired from Renton's Public Works Department after 37 years, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2024 Renton River Days parade on July 27. The parade begins at 10 a.m. along South Third Street. (info)

• Senior Day Picnic: The Senior Day Picnic will officially start Renton River Days at the Renton Community Center on July 26 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event, for those 50+, features hamburgers, BBQ sides, ice cream, and live music. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased online using code 18916. (info)

• Renton River Days 2024: The full schedule for Renton River Days is now available. Events include a Friday night drone show, a variety of food trucks, and family-friendly activities from July 26-28. For details on street closures and parking options, visit the city’s website. (info)

• New Public Art on Williams Avenue South: A new public art installation featuring a restored 1960s streetlight with modern LED lights was unveiled last week on Williams Avenue South. The dedication ceremony is scheduled for August 1 at 11 a.m. (info)

• Renton’s Growth: Renton’s population has risen to 108,800 in 2024, making it the eighth-largest city in Washington. The city continues to evolve with new residential and business developments. (info)

Events:

• July 26: Drone Show at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, 7:30 p.m. (info)

• July 27: Renton River Days Parade and festivities at Cedar River Park, Liberty Park, and the Renton Community Center from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (info)

• August 1: Dakota Poorman Concert at Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, 7 p.m. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Racial Equity Commitment: Sammamish City Council has adopted a resolution to establish a Racial Equity Commitment and Vision, building on the DEIB program initiated in 2022. The city's new focus on racial equity aims to address systemic inequities and will involve developing a Racial Equity Workplan and Toolkit to guide policy and program evaluations, with an understanding that this framework can also benefit other marginalized groups. (info)

• ADA Barrier Removal Project: Replacement of curb ramps and sidewalk panels on 228th Avenue Southeast from July 15 to September 18. Details: Sammamish ADA Project. (info)

• Southeast 24th Street Improvements: Storm drainage system, sidewalk, and bike lane installation from July 16 to August 16. Expect traffic delays and temporary driveway access restrictions. Details: Sammamish Sidewalk Project. (info)

• Traffic Signal & Street Light Repaint: Pole painting on Southeast 30th Street from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for three weeks. Expect partial lane closures and flaggers. (info)

• Road Striping Maintenance: Striping and thermoplastic markings on city roads in July and August. Expect delays and follow wet paint signage. (info)

• PSE Power Line Work: Pole replacement on Louis Thompson Road on August 20, causing a temporary power outage. Residents have been notified. (info)

• Road Maintenance on 244th Avenue NE: Full closure from July 8 for about six weeks for support wall repair. Plan for detours and delays. (info)

Events:

• Garden with Lisa: Spend the afternoon in the park while enjoying some entertainment. July 23rd at 1pm. (info)

• Hear music by Aaron Crawford and enjoy food from Bai Tong and Clown Buggie. July 25th from 6:30-8pm. (info)

• Movie night hosted by the Sammamish Stewards. July 30th at 6pm. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Art Competition: Eastside exterminator sponsored an art contest for Pollinator Week, receiving over 50 pieces of art from children in different age groups. This was a great event that brought the community together. (info)

• Federal Grant: The newly acquired $5M federal grant will be used to create the Eastrail trail. The Woodinville portion is the last major link of the Eastrail corridor. It will connect to the Sammamish River Trail. (info)

Events:

• True Romans music in the park with Cottage Lake Summer Concerts. July 25th from 6:30-8:30pm. (info)

• Jaeden Luke Woodinville Summer Concerts on July 31st from 5:30-8pm. (info)

• Celebrate Woodinville Festival on August 10th from 8-10:30am. (info)

Volunteering Opportunities:

• Northeast Sammamish Park invasive plant restoration. July 26th from 10am-12pm. (info)

• Gallagher Hill Open Space restoration event on August 10th from 10am-1pm. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Cedar + Elm in Kenmore offers a casual yet elegant dining experience with a focus on American cuisine. Located at The Lodge at St. Edward, this restaurant features a variety of dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its refined menu and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience. 

• Flat Iron Grill in Issaquah is a trendy, artsy restaurant located in the heart of Gilman Village. Known for its top-notch American whiskeys and a menu inspired by South American flavors, this spot offers a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for dinner. The New York steak, with its excellent marbling and texture, is a must-try. With its soothing and elegant decor, Flat Iron Grill provides a unique and enjoyable dining experience​/

Vibes:

• We are looking to partner with local businesses to help grow our community! If you run one or know of someone who runs please let us know and we would love to talk with them and learn more. 

• Sammamish native, Surf Mesa has released a new electronic song, it’s great!

• The weather will continue to be sunny this week!

• The start of the week is looking like it’s going to be generally rainy, but Friday, Saturday and Sunday should have some sunshine!

  

  Lake Sammamish via Zac Gudakov

Final Thoughts!

Happy Monday everyone! Thanks for reading the newsletter!

Mac & Preju