Your trusted source for local Federal Way, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Emerald City Youth Services has proposed a new mental health facility in Federal Way to address the growing youth mental health crisis. The facility, featuring 94 treatment beds, aims to provide comprehensive support services for local youth struggling with mental health and substance use challenges.
The Federal Way City Council approved a new parks project management position aimed at enhancing project oversight and funding acquisition. Concerns were raised regarding the sustainability of the funding source from the parks levy account, especially with the role's limited two-year guarantee.
The Federal Way Transit Center has officially transitioned to the new Federal Way Downtown Station bus loop as of March 30, improving connectivity to the future light rail station set to open in 2026. Local leaders, including King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer and Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, celebrated this development, emphasizing its significance for regional transit access and pedestrian safety. The new bus loop maintains existing configurations while adding two new stops, enhancing convenience for approximately 7,000 daily riders.
The Federal Way Education Association (FWEA) organized a demonstration on March 19 to demand full funding for schools amid a budget deficit of over $13 billion in Washington state. President James Brown emphasized the need for progressive revenue sources to support education without harming essential services for the community. The FWEA protests highlight concerns over federal cuts to education and the potential impact of dismantling the U.S. Department of Education.
The Federal Way City Council is reviewing an amendment to the Park Impact Fee methodology to adjust fees based on the size of new housing units. The proposed changes aim to comply with state law and potentially ease financial burdens on developers through a moratorium.
The Federal Way City Council is set to approve a significant upgrade to the audio-video system in the council chambers, aimed at modernizing outdated technology from the late 1990s. This $750,000 project will enhance meeting quality and accessibility, addressing long-standing issues with the current system.
The recent council meeting in Federal Way addressed concerns regarding tree maintenance and the hiring of a new Capital Projects Manager. Residents voiced worries over tree damage and visibility issues affecting flag poles, prompting the council to unanimously approve motions for tree service maintenance and the new managerial position.
The South King County Council has advanced significant funding recommendations to address the affordable housing crisis in the region. A total of $4.1 million will be allocated to four projects aimed at supporting low-income families.
The Redondo Housing Project was a focal point at a recent council meeting, sparking discussions on funding eligibility and the need for low-income housing. Concerns were raised about the lack of SCIP funding and the allocation of SKIP funds, highlighting challenges in addressing affordable housing needs.
King County Executive Dow Constantine is poised to be appointed as the new CEO of Sound Transit, pending a vote by the Sound Transit Board. His selection follows a comprehensive evaluation process, and if approved, he would resign from his current role as county executive. The board leaders express confidence in Constantine's ability to manage challenges and deliver on the ST3 package.