Latest News in Seattle, WA

Seattle's Downtown Ambassadors tackle trash, graffiti and homelessness in cleanup effort

Seattle's Downtown Ambassadors program has expanded to cover over 300 square blocks, employing 165 ambassadors who have logged nearly 283,000 hours addressing issues like homelessness and graffiti. They have removed over 1.2 million gallons of trash and 49,000 graffiti tags in the past year. Local business owners report a positive impact from the program, noting its effectiveness in cleaning up the downtown area.

Explosion and fire at Oak Harbor home leaves 1 unaccounted for, 2 escape with injuries

A large explosion at a residence in Oak Harbor on Tuesday evening left one person unaccounted for and two others with minor injuries. The Island County Sheriff's Office reported that fire crews will monitor the scene overnight while an investigation into the explosion's cause begins.

Mayor Harrell 'Bad actors shouldnt overshadow peaceful No Kings protest

Protests against ICE escalated in Seattle, with demonstrators blocking traffic and lighting fires. Mayor Bruce Harrell emphasized the commitment to peaceful protests, stating that the actions of a few should not overshadow the majority's intent.

Seattles 17.45M overhaul of Pike and Pine connecting Capitol Hill to the waterfront is complete

Seattle officials completed a $17.45 million project to enhance Pike and Pine streets, improving connections between Capitol Hill and the waterfront. The upgrades include one-way street configurations, wider sidewalks, and protected bike lanes, part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mayor Bruce Harrell emphasized the project’s role in creating a more accessible downtown.

Bus riders, get ready for bigger, strong barriers to protect Metros drivers

King County Metro plans to enhance safety for bus operators by retrofitting its fleet with larger, stronger barriers. The initiative follows a tragic incident involving the murder of a transit operator and aims to install safety partitions on all 1,400 buses. County Executive Shannon Braddock emphasizes swift action to improve transit safety.

Seattle's Overhaul of Pike and Pine Connecting Capitol Hill to the Waterfront is Complete

Seattle completed an overhaul of the Pike and Pine streets, connecting Capitol Hill to the waterfront. This project aims to enhance accessibility and promote urban development. The improvements are expected to boost local businesses and community engagement.

Woman reported in critical condition after struck by driver at Boylston and Pine UPDATE Fatality

A 49-year-old woman died after being struck by a driver while reportedly sleeping in the roadway on Boylston Avenue in Seattle. The driver remained on the scene and showed no signs of impairment. This incident marks the third pedestrian fatality in the area in June.

Seattle set to ban algorithmic rent fixing

The Seattle City Council plans to ban landlords from using “algorithmic rent fixing” practices, which critics argue facilitate collusion against renters. The legislation includes provisions for plaintiffs to recover legal fees if they successfully challenge offenders. The council's analysis suggests the ban may improve rental affordability for vulnerable communities.

Ground is Finally Broken on the 9.5M Garfield Super Block

Ground was broken on a $9.5 million redevelopment project at Garfield Super Block in Seattle's Central District. The project aims to create a new promenade that integrates art and history into the community. This initiative is expected to enhance local engagement and accessibility in the area.

Already keeping most of its tactical comms secret from scanners, Seattle Police Department radio will enhance encryption in 2026

The Seattle Police Department will fully encrypt its tactical radio communications starting in early 2026 to enhance safety for the community and first responders. This move follows a practice initiated during the 2020 protests, with officials citing concerns over criminals using scanners to evade law enforcement. Dispatch channels will remain open for public monitoring.