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This week's CHS history highlights significant closures and changes in the Capitol Hill area, including the departure of The Stranger newspaper and the closure of R Place and Fred Wildlife Refuge. The article reflects on the evolving landscape of Capitol Hill, emphasizing community impact and historical significance.
Demolition work at the Booth Building in Capitol Hill has unveiled a historic "ghost sign" advertising the Margaret Olson School for Expression and Dramatic Art, highlighting the area's rich artistic past. The ongoing construction of the Broadway Center for Youth aims to preserve the building's façade while providing affordable housing and job training facilities. This discovery reflects the ongoing transformation of Capitol Hill and its cultural heritage.
The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) has announced the first projects funded by the historic $1.55 billion transportation levy approved by voters in November 2024. The 2025 Levy Delivery Plan prioritizes safety improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and community-driven projects, aiming to enhance pedestrian experiences and modernize the city's transportation framework.
Seattle Police are investigating the first homicide of 2025 in the East Precinct, following a shooting near the King County Youth Services facility. The victim was found with a gunshot wound and later pronounced dead at Harborview Medical Center. An arrest has since been made in connection with the crime, marking a significant start to the new police chief's tenure.
The grand opening of Voices Off Lounge in Capitol Hill, Seattle, marks a significant milestone for the Deaf community, providing a dedicated space for socializing and learning American Sign Language (ASL). Founded by Kellie Gillespie, CEO of Visually Speaking, the lounge aims to bridge connections between Deaf and hearing individuals while addressing the urgent need for community spaces. With a series of ASL courses and community-building events, this initiative reflects a growing commitment to inclusivity and support for marginalized groups.
New Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes has assumed his role with a commitment to enhancing recruitment and retention within the police force, as well as supporting school resource officers and mental health initiatives. His appointment marks a significant shift for the Seattle Police Department, which has faced ongoing challenges related to staffing and public safety. Barnes aims to establish a culture of procedural justice and community engagement in the department.
Capitol Hill is bracing for a potential wintry mix of cold, rain, and snow this weekend, as forecasts suggest snowfall could occur despite milder daytime temperatures. The National Weather Service outlines the complexities of the weather patterns, indicating that while conditions are favorable for snow at higher elevations, warmer surface temperatures may hinder accumulation. This mix of weather comes as the region experiences La Niña conditions, which typically bring colder and wetter weather.
The Voices Off Lounge, a new hub for the Deaf community, is set to open in Capitol Hill, Seattle, offering a dedicated space for socializing, networking, and learning American Sign Language (ASL). Founded by Kellie Gillespie of Visually Speaking, the venue aims to fill the gap left by the closure of the Interpreter Training Program at Seattle Central College and revitalize the historic Deaf community in the area. The grand opening celebrations are scheduled for January 31 and February 1, 2025.
Seattle City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck has proposed the establishment of a Select Committee on Federal Administration and Policy Changes to address emerging federal policy shifts that may jeopardize funding for essential city programs. The committee aims to develop local responses to protect vital services across multiple sectors, including housing, public health, and education. Rinck emphasizes the urgent need for local leaders to respond to these threats to the community's well-being.
Seattle's new cafe, Laurel, opened for coffee service on E Olive Way after a year of preparation. Owned by Kate Opatz, Laurel is designed with feminine motifs and aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for the neighborhood. The cafe plans to introduce nighttime service featuring craft cocktails in the near future.