Seastside Newsletter #72

Bellevue:

News:

• 3 arrested for street racing: Bellevue Police arrested three teenagers this week for street racing and eluding law enforcement amid a significant rise in speeding violations. This surge includes a 163% increase in citations compared to last year. The arrests occurred on May 23 and May 26, following incidents involving motorcycles and vehicles racing recklessly. Bellevue Police initiated a speeding emphasis campaign after a fatal crash on May 2, which claimed the life of a speeding motorcyclist. Officers reported that from January to April of this year, 998 speeding citations were issued, compared to just 380 in the same timeframe last year. The department encourages residents to report speeding and reckless driving behaviors. (info)

• Bellevue to launch innovation challenge at June 4 forum: The City of Bellevue plans to initiate its inaugural Civic Innovation Challenge at the upcoming Inclusive Innovation Forum on June 4 from 6-8 p.m. This challenge seeks to unite innovative regional partners to collaborate on civic technology solutions. Local government, businesses, nonprofits, and community members will gather at City Hall to foster increased innovation in public services. The forum represents a significant step in enhancing collaboration between various stakeholders. The challenge is expected to spark new ideas that could improve government services and community relations. Bellevue's commitment to civic innovation underscores its focus on leveraging technology for community benefit. (info)

• Bellevue’s fleet ranks among the best in North America: Bellevue's vehicle fleet achieved a #22 ranking in North America by the National Association of Fleet Administrators, surpassing other Washington state organizations. This recognition reflects the city's dedication to environmental sustainability and innovation in fleet operations. City Manager Diane Carlson emphasized the importance of the award, attributing the success to the hard work of the fleet operations team. Bellevue manages nearly 1,000 vehicles, including fire engines and police SUVs, and plans to install more charging stations to support its electric vehicle transition. By 2030, Bellevue aims to convert half of its light-duty fleet to electric vehicles. The award also highlights the city’s focus on long-term financial sustainability in fleet management. (info)

• Explore Bellevue at Lake to Lake Bike Ride: Bellevue will host the 12th annual Lake to Lake Bike Ride on June 14, providing routes for cyclists of all skill levels. The event features a mostly flat, nine-mile loop ideal for families and less experienced riders, alongside a more challenging 24-mile loop with climbs. Additionally, there will be a free ride for children in the park. This initiative not only promotes cycling but also encourages community engagement and physical fitness. The bike ride aims to showcase Bellevue's scenic routes and foster a love for cycling among residents. Participants can register online to join in the festivities. (info)

Events:

• Celebrate Pride Month on June 4th. (info)

• Bellevue Farmer’s Market on June 5th. (info)

• Symetra Center Blood Drive on June 6th. (info)

• Lake to Lake Bike Ride on June 14th. (info)

Bothell & Kenmore:

News:

• Moonlight on Main night market kicks off June 13 in downtown Bothell: Bothell’s new summer night market series, Moonlight on Main, debuts June 13–14 and continues every Saturday through September 13, transforming Main Street into a festive community hub from 7 p.m. to midnight. The weekly event will feature rotating themes, including Pride Night, Father’s Day, Garden Week, and Outdoor Recreation Night, along with live music, local food, vendors, and artisan entertainment. Created in partnership with Gilly Wagon, the series aims to energize downtown Bothell and foster community connections. (info)

Events:

• Kenmore Farmers Market Opening Day - Ribbon Cutting on June 4th. (info)

• Wine Wednesday at The Cottage on June 4th. (info)

• Shoreline Fire Department Open House and Pancake Breakfast on June 7th. (info)

• Pride Night on June 13th. (info)

Fall City & Snoqualmie:

News:

• Snoqualmie Waste Collection Services Expanding Under New Contract Starting June 1: The City of Snoqualmie has approved a seven-year solid waste contract with Waste Management, effective June 1, 2025. This agreement will expand and improve waste collection services for residents. The Snoqualmie City Council endorsed the contract during a recent meeting, highlighting its potential benefits for the community. As part of the new contract, Waste Management will implement updated collection schedules and services. Local officials believe this change will increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact. (info)

• North Bend and Snoqualmie Agree on Interim Plan as Police Transition Continues: The City of North Bend and Snoqualmie have reached a revised interim Interlocal Agreement for Police Services, maintaining public safety operations. This agreement is crucial as both cities navigate the transition of police services. Mayor Melissa Grant emphasized the importance of collaboration in ensuring community safety. The updated agreement reflects ongoing discussions between the two municipalities. Local officials aim to enhance the efficiency of police operations during this transition period. (info)

• SR 18 traffic to shift onto new Raging River and Deep Creek bridges during June 1 overnight work: State Route 18 will be reduced to a single lane with alternating traffic overnight on June 1, south of Snoqualmie. This traffic adjustment allows the movement of eastbound vehicles onto the newly constructed Raging River and Deep Creek bridges. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) urges drivers to plan for potential delays during this period. The work is part of ongoing improvements to enhance road safety and infrastructure in the region. Such operations aim to ensure better traffic flow and reduce congestion in the long term. Residents and commuters are advised to follow traffic updates to navigate the changes effectively. (info)

• North Bend Farmers Market Returns June 5 for 20th Season at Si View Park: On June 5, 2025, Si View Metropolitan Park District will inaugurate the 20th season of the North Bend Farmers Market, a cherished community event. Operating nearly every Thursday until mid-September, the market will feature hours from 4 to 8 p.m. and shift to 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. later in the season. This year’s vendor lineup includes both familiar favorites and new participants, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items. The market also revives the Power of Produce Club, a free program for children ages 3 to 10 that promotes healthy eating. Additionally, the market accepts various food assistance programs to enhance food access within the community. Visitors are encouraged to carpool, bike, or walk to alleviate congestion during peak hours. (info)

Events:

• Snoqualmie Community Park Splash Pad Opens on June 6th. (info)

• Smart Recycling Even in Carnation on June 14th. (info)

• Fire Station 20th Anniversary Celebration on June 14th. (info)

• Big Truck Day on June 26th. (info)

Issaquah:

News:

• A Look at Issaquah's 2025 Community Survey Results: The City of Issaquah's 2025 community survey revealed that 96% of residents consider the quality of life to be “excellent” or “good.” Public safety satisfaction rose notably, increasing from 69% in 2023 to 79% in 2025. Other areas of improvement included environmental efforts, where satisfaction with salmon recovery rose from 67% to 83%. Issaquah outperformed regional and national averages in several key metrics, with 95% of residents rating it as a good place to live. The survey identified priority issues such as planning for future growth, cost of living, and traffic flow. Residents rely mainly on the city’s website and word of mouth for updates and information. (info)

• Tiger Mountain Summit trailhead to close June 9 for major renovation: The popular trailhead in Issaquah will be closed from June 9 to November 1, 2025, as the Department of Natural Resources renovates and expands parking capacity from 50 to over 170 spots. The upgrade aims to improve access for hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and ADA users. Trails will remain open, but visitors are encouraged to explore alternate access points this summer. Timber cleared during the project will support salmon habitat restoration in Issaquah Creek. (info)

Events:

• Issaquah Drink N Draw at Formula Brewing on June 2nd. (info)

• Village Theatre Presents: The Color Purple, the Musical on June 4th. (info)

• Guided Hike: Exploring Ecosystem on June 5th. (info)

• Volunteer Opportunity: Restoration on Squak Mountain on June 6th. (info)

Kirkland:

News:

• Juanita Beach reopened for swimming and water activities: Public Health – Seattle & King County has cleared Juanita Beach for use as of May 28 after bacteria levels returned to safe thresholds. The beach had been closed for a week, and King County will continue weekly testing throughout the summer to monitor water quality. (info)

• Traffic impacts across Kirkland for spring construction: Several major streets in Kirkland are experiencing lane reductions and traffic control due to ongoing infrastructure projects. Slater/132nd Avenues NE is now permanently reduced to a single northbound lane between NE 124th St and NE 126th Pl, as part of a pedestrian and bike connectivity project between the Cross Kirkland Corridor and Eastrail. On 98th Ave NE, a single northbound lane is reduced from Forbes Creek Bridge to NE 110th St for new sidewalks and a pedestrian beacon installation, with work hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Construction on 124th Ave NE between NE 116th and NE 124th continues with paving underway; some driveways will have temporary closures and right-turn-only exits. On 100th Ave NE, drivers should expect brief traffic stops as part of ongoing construction between NE 137th and 145th. Juanita Dr will have one-lane closures from NE 124th to NE 128th between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. as final paving tasks wrap up. Eighth Ave W remains under rehabilitation, with closures progressing east based on weather. Finally, maintenance work on NE 132nd St at 120th Ave NE will continue through mid-June, with police directing traffic as needed during work hours.

Events:

• City Council Meeting on June 3rd. (info)

• Juanita Friday Market on June 6th. (info)

• Blood Drive on June 24th. (info)

Mercer Island:

News:

• Mercer Island eyes bond measure to fund $110M Public Safety and Maintenance Facility: City officials are weighing whether to place a bond measure on the November 4 ballot to finance a new Public Safety and Maintenance (PSM) Facility. The proposed facility, estimated at just under $110 million, would be built on the existing city hall campus and consolidate essential city services, including police, public works, emergency operations, and IT. City Manager Jessi Bon and Mayor Salim Nice shared project details with the Rotary Club on May 20, noting that the outdated city hall and public works buildings require replacement due to structural and safety concerns. If approved, construction could take up to 2.5 years. The council will make a final decision on the bond measure by July. (info)

• SR18 closure at I-90 rescheduled to May 29–June 4 for interchange work: A full closure of State Route 18 in both directions beneath I-90 is now set for May 29 through June 4 to allow crews to complete work on the southern portion of the diverging diamond interchange. Originally slated for mid-May but delayed due to weather, the extended closure will reduce the need for 10 nights of smaller shutdowns, improving safety and helping keep the summer opening on track. Detours will be in place, with limited off-ramp access from I-90. Drivers should plan for delays and check WSDOT’s app or travel map for real-time updates. (info)

Events:

• Mercer Island Connect: Networking Luncheon on June 3rd. (info)

• Mercer Island Connect: 5 Chamber Speed Networking Breakfast on June 6th. (info)

• Juneteenth Celebration on June 19th. (info)

Redmond:

News:

• Dave’s Hot Chicken Expands to Redmond as Part of Western Washington Growth Push: Nashville-style hot chicken fans in Redmond have something to look forward to. Dave’s Hot Chicken is opening a new location at 16502 Cleveland St. in the third quarter of 2025. This is one of four new locations announced for Western Washington, with others coming to Tacoma, Puyallup, and Federal Way. The spicy chicken chain, known for tenders, sliders, and sides like mac and cheese and seasoned fries, is expanding under a 10-unit development deal led by Kirkland-based franchisee Sana Keshap. The Capitol Hill Dave’s opened in 2023 and has seen strong demand, fueling this next phase of regional growth. (info)

Events:

• Pride: Promenade Through the Park on June 7th. (info)

• Small Business One-on-One Advising Hours with Staff on June 10th. (info)

• CHIME Music Festival on June 14th. (info)

Renton:

News:

• Small Plane Crashes Into Lake Washington Near Renton Airport, No Injuries Reported: A small Cessna plane skidded off the runway at Renton Municipal Airport on Sunday, June 1, and slid partially into Lake Washington during a training flight. The pilot and passenger escaped unharmed, and emergency crews, including Boeing fire personnel and a crane-equipped tow truck, responded to remove the aircraft from the water. Environmental and federal agencies—including the EPA, NTSB, and FAA—are investigating the crash and any potential fuel or material leakage. The incident occurred near Perimeter Road, and officials say the pilot had been practicing emergency landings at the time. (info)

• Three-Week Road Closure Begins June 3 at Burnett Ave S & Smithers Ave S in Renton: Starting June 3, Burnett Avenue South and Smithers Avenue South will be closed at the intersection with South Seventh Street and Talbot Road South through June 24. The closure, located behind the Brown Bear car wash, supports the South Seventh Street Corridor Improvements Project. Crews will construct a raised trail crossing and modify Smithers Avenue to allow only southbound exits onto Talbot. This is part of a broader plan to improve bike and pedestrian safety in the area, including new sidewalks, a two-way cycle track, and safer access to the upcoming Sound Transit BRT station. Detours will be in place via Shattuck, Morris, Williams, and Wells Avenues South. (info)

Events:

• Renton Farmers Market on June 3rd. (info)

• Gun Lockbox Giveaway on June 6th. (info)

• Recycling Event: Mattress, Box Spring, Cardboard, Tires, and Styrofoam on June 7th. (info)

Sammamish:

News:

• Traffic Impacts on Louis Thompson Road and Surrounding Streets Through June: As part of the Tightline Project, Louis Thompson Road will be restricted to southbound traffic only 24/7 between SE 5th Street and East Lake Sammamish Parkway from May 12 through June 20. Northbound drivers must follow posted detour signs. Southbound access to driveways and side streets will be maintained, and services like school buses, garbage collection, and mail will continue with adjusted routing. In addition, Puget Sound Energy is replacing a gas main across multiple nearby streets, causing intermittent lane closures, sidewalk disruptions, and steel road plates. Expect delays through at least July; work runs weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (info)

Events:

• City Council Meeting on June 3rd. (info)

• Coffee with Council on June 7th. (info)

• Volunteer at East Sammamish Park on June 7th. (info)

• Color & Clay Paint Party at Big Block Brewing on June 7th. (info)

Woodinville:

News:

• Explosion Contained at Woodinville Hardware Store, No Injuries Reported: An explosion at a hardware store near 130th Ave NE and Little Bear Creek Parkway in Woodinville on Monday afternoon prompted a multi-agency fire response. Crews from Eastside Fire & Rescue, Bothell, Shoreline, and Kirkland quickly responded, with the facility’s sprinkler system containing most of the fire. No injuries were reported. A fire investigator has been called in to determine the cause. (info)

Events:

• 4 Stitch Trivia Night on June 4th. (info)

• Live Music Fridays at Tsillan Cellars on June 6th. (info)

• Woodinville Farmers Market on June 7th. (info)

What we are currently loving!

• Chay Concept – Bellevue, WA: Chay Concept is a vegetarian Vietnamese restaurant that delivers bold flavors and artful presentation. Dishes like the salted egg tofu and vermicelli noodles with imitation beef are standout offerings that even meat-eaters will appreciate. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a great spot for a relaxed meal.

• Xochi Tacos – Issaquah, WA: Xochi Tacos, a humble food truck in Issaquah, delivers bold and authentic Mexican flavors that rival any brick-and-mortar establishment. Their chicharrón tacos, with crispy pork and house-made tortillas, are a standout, and the vegetarian options are equally compelling. Despite its unassuming appearance, Xochi consistently draws crowds eager for a taste of its exceptional offerings.

Vibes:

• This week, Bellevue is experiencing a delightful mix of spring and early summer weather. Today, Tuesday, May 27, expect partly sunny skies with a high of 73 and a low of 55. Wednesday brings warmer temperatures, reaching up to 85 under clear skies. However, Thursday sees a cooldown with highs around 63 and a chance of morning showers. The weekend offers pleasant conditions: Friday will be mostly sunny with a high of 73, Saturday partly sunny at 67, and Sunday with intervals of clouds and sunshine, reaching 66. Monday, June 2, may have a stray morning shower but will otherwise be mostly cloudy with a high near 69.

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