Yearly Archives: 2024

The Seattle skyline rises above the I-5 freeway trench in South Downtown.

Op-Ed: Seattle Transportation Levy Should Seek to Undo Harm from Highways

A citywide coalition has proposed a $40 million package to advance ongoing projects like designing I-5 lids in multiple neighborhoods (supporting new street connections, parks, and affordable housing), remaking Aurora Avenue for safer crossings, and reconnecting the Duwamish Valley community around SR 99.

Construction Starts on Wilburton Trestle, a Centerpiece of the Eastrail

Last week, King County celebrated the start of construction on a $37 million project to upgrade Bellevue's Wilburton Trestle and create one of the most pivotal and scenic spans of the Eastrail. The Eastside walking and biking trail will ultimately stretch 42 miles between Renton and Woodinville.

Saka Adds $100 Million to Levy for Sidewalks, Freight, EV Charging

Amending the Mayor's final proposal for a transportation levy, committee chair Rob Saka has revised the proposal by increasing funding for new sidewalks, freight mobility, and electric vehicle charging.

Sunday Video: America’s Best BRT Is In Albuquerque

Albuquerque doesn't get a lot of attention outside of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, but this Southwest city happens to boast America's highest...
McLaren has its butterfly doors up while a half dozen onlookers in yellow vests take picture or admire the car.

Policy Lab: Tax the Filthy, Stinking Rich

Seattle has a $258 million budget deficit to solve. Mayor Bruce Harrell said he rejects notions of austerity. Good for him! I’m here to help. Let’s chart a way out of this crisis that doesn’t involve slashing services and laying off city workers.
Picture of Jessica Bateman

Housing Juggernaut Jessica Bateman Launches State Senate Bid

The Urbanist sat down with State Rep. Jessica Bateman, who is running for the Washington State Senate pledging to bring the same urgency around housing issues that she has brought to the lower chamber.

Rob Saka Pledges All Modes Matter Approach to Amending Transportation Levy

The councilmember stewarding Seattle's next big transportation levy says his goal is prioritizing all modes at the same time. It may be hard to square this approach with pressing climate goals and an urgent traffic safety crisis.

Free Youth Fares Come to Amtrak Cascades in Washington

On Tuesday, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced the start of free youth fares on Amtrak Cascades services. Free youth fares will apply to both trains and buses operated under the Cascades brand, but only in Washington.