Sound Transit May update: SR 522 / NE 145th Bus Rapid Transit

Saturday, May 29, 2021


Since the start of the year, our Sound Transit team has been busy delivering our online open house and virtual city public meetings. 

Below you will find an update on our recent and upcoming activities.
  • The project team completed the environmental review process this spring. The public comment period is now closed (it ran from March 25 to April 8, 2021). More information about the environmental review is available online.
  • Later in 2021, we anticipate the Sound Transit Board of Directors to consider action to identify the project to be built, which may enable the project to advance into the design and construction phases.
    • This means that we also now anticipate starting the property acquisition process later this year. 
    • The project schedule is subject to change due to impacts from the COVID-19 recession and the ongoing Sound Transit Board realignment process.
    • In the upcoming design phase, the project team will:
      • Finalize the design of roadway and sidewalks.
      • Finalize station design and public art.
      • Advance the Park-and-Ride garages to a more detailed level of design.
      • Obtain land use, environmental and construction permits.
      • Begin the property acquisition process.
      • Continue engaging with and providing feedback opportunities for the public, community groups, businesses, elected officials and partner agencies to comment on and inform the design.
      COVID-19 impacts to Sound Transit projects: Revenue reductions caused by the COVID-19 recession combined with rising cost estimates will affect plans and timelines for Sound Transit expansion projects. 

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      Public invited to outdoor event to honor retiring Shoreline Schools staff members


      Community members are invited to attend the Shoreline Schools Retirement Celebration on Thursday, June 10 at 5:30pm at Shoreline Stadium, 18560 1st Ave NE

      Retiring staff members will be recognized with a special in-person celebration around the track and field and have the opportunity to share a few memories and parting words. A list of retirees planning to attend this year's event is below.

      Join Shoreline Schools in recognizing these retirees for their many years of service and wish them well!
      • Colby Angel - Shorewood High School
      • Frank Fisher - Shorewood High School
      • Lynn Franklin - District Office
      • Chuck Goodwin - District Office
      • Bo Jordan - Shorecrest High School
      • Layna Marab - Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center
      • Jim Meissner - Lake Forest Park Elementary
      • Mollie Merkley - Meridian Park Elementary
      • Rebecca Moreno - Einstein Middle School
      • Barbara Rosser - Syre Elementary
      • Leann Rozema - Shorecrest High School
      • Nadine Santo Pietro (2020 Retiree) - Echo Lake Elementary
      • Vince Santo Pietro (2020 Retiree) - Shorecrest High School
      • Amy Vujovich - District Office
      The event is outdoors and attendees are asked to wear masks or facial coverings and practice social distancing of three feet during the event.



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      Scene on the Sound: Low tides will continue to Sunday - but here's Thursday

      Friday, May 28, 2021

       
      Photo by Lee Lageschulte

      Low tides will continue in the Sound through Sunday, making for wonderful beachcombing - but look and leave things in place.

      Richmond Beach Saltwater Park (the photo is Edmonds) will have volunteer naturalists to tell you what you are seeing on the exposed beach.



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      Fircrest Chapel and Forest supporters gather at Dunn Gardens

      Fircrest Chapel supporters gather at Dunn Gardens
      Photo by Lance Young

      Last Friday a wonderful group gathered to celebrate and defend the Fircrest Chapel and Forest. It was a beautiful May evening and over 25 garden and history enthusiasts came together to hear about the current challenges facing the historic Naval Hospital Chapel and its surrounding Forest Canopy at Fircrest School in Shoreline.

      A legal appeal was filed on Thursday, May 20, 2021 by the Shoreline Preservation Society to the Shoreline City Council to challenge the last decision by the King County (Shoreline) Landmarks Commission. 

      That decision was to give back approximately 1/5 of the historic forest which was recently landmarked just in January, to DSHS (Department of Social and Health Services), who implied it wanted an additional parking lot there.

      Fircrest Chapel signs at the Dunn Gardens gathering place
      Photo by Lance Young

      This action would put the Chapel itself at risk potentially by removal of over 30 significant trees at the toe of the hillside where the historic building rests. The Chapel and its forest are potentially at risk from all sides because of possible development plans for new facilities and housing proposals.

      The Chapel was built in 1944 during the height of WWII, and envisioned by Captain Joel T. Boone as a place for the injured sailors being treated at the hospital and their families to find a respite in the forest.

      The beautiful Dunn Gardens was an inspirational
      setting to talk about saving trees. Photo by Lance Young
      Commander Boone was ahead of his time in his understanding that the forest has a restorative ability that soldiers returning from battle find curative after the trauma they may have suffered.

      It was fitting to have the Garden event at Dunn Gardens because that site is on the National Register of Historic Places, as the Chapel and its Forest are eligible for as well.

      The Chapel was the very first freestanding, inter-denominational Naval Hospital Chapel built in America.

      It would indeed be an amazing asset for Shoreline to have this place recognized Nationally and SPS believes this should be the goal.

      SPS is so grateful to Dunn Gardens and all of the wonderful folks who are supporting us in this effort.

      Folks are invited to still donate as they see fit at our website here: www.preserveshoreline.org

      --Janet Way



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      Letter to the Editor: Citizen input on new sidewalk widths?

      To the Editor:

      During the current discussions regarding the Transportation Master Plan (TMP), the Tree Preservation Code Team, a group of Shoreline residents, ask for the opportunity for citizen input to the City regarding the width of new sidewalks. 

      The Tree Preservation Code Team is not challenging new sidewalks but questions the regulation for 8-foot wide sidewalks. In 2018, Shoreline citizens approved the new sidewalk prioritization program: 52% approved; 48% rejected. 

      This vote confirmed that Shoreline residents have an active interest in sidewalks. The new sidewalk width is an important public discussion now since the new sidewalk prioritization program, transportation and development projects will require the removal of many tall mature conifer trees.

      Shoreline’s Transportation Master Plan, Policy 38.4, page 179, “allows for flexibility in the implementation of the Master Street Plan to address site-specific, unique or unforeseen circumstances, such as the presence of bus stops, topography or large trees.” 

      According to the Engineering Manual 14.2-D: “Sidewalks abutting single family residential uses shall be at least 5 feet wide. Sidewalks abutting uses other than single family residential shall be at least 8 feet wide.”

      The 12 approved prioritized sidewalks include the new sidewalk along the east side of Dayton Ave N (WSDOT frontage). Groups including Save Shoreline Trees and residents along Dayton Ave N were not aware of any flexibility regarding the new 8-foot wide sidewalk despite numerous letters to the City. 

      Will the new sidewalk along Westminster Way N be 8 feet wide and how many tall trees along Westminster Way N will be removed? The same question applies to new prioritized sidewalks in Richmond Beach and additional neighborhoods.

      Which of the new prioritized sidewalks will be 8-feet wide? Citizens ask for the opportunity to participate in this decision process.

      Kathleen Russell
      Shoreline

      Correction: the name of the group is Tree Preservation Code Team


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      Local students graduate from Whitman College

      Whitman College Memorial Hall

      The following students received their Bachelor of Arts degrees from Whitman College in Walla Walla WA.

      HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, HIGH SCHOOL, MAJOR(s), HONORS

      Lake Forest Park, Washington
      Linnea Coleman, Shorecrest High School, Geology, cum laude

      Seattle, Washington
      Sarah Cohn, Nathan Hale High School, Sociology-Environmental Studies, magna cum laude

      Founded in 1882, Whitman College is a highly selective private, independent, co-educational, non-sectarian residential liberal arts and sciences undergraduate college located in Walla Walla, Washington. 

      The college is home to approximately 1,500 undergraduate students exploring 45 departmental majors that lead to a Bachelor of Arts degree. A concentration on basic disciplines, in combination with a supportive residential life program, fosters intellectual vitality, confidence, leadership and the flexibility to succeed in a changing technological, multicultural world.



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      Case updates May 26, 2021

       
      Case updates May 26, 2021


      United States 
      • Total cases 33,018,965 - 23,511 in one day
      • Total deaths 589,547 - 577 in one day

      Washington state
      • Total confirmed cases 399,710
      • Probable (additional) cases 33,991   
      • Total hospitalizations 24,018 
      • Total deaths 5,754 

      King county 

      • Total confirmed cases 104,665 -  243 new since yesterday   
      • Total hospitalizations 6,129 - 9 new since yesterday  
      • Total deaths 1,588 - 10 new since yesterday 

      Seattle - population 744,995 (2018) 
      • Total confirmed cases 24,860 -  33 new since yesterday
      • Total hospitalizations 1,378 -  -1 new since yesterday
      • Total deaths 412 -  4 new since yesterday

      Shoreline - population 56,752 (2018) 
      • Total confirmed cases 2,406 -  9 new since yesterday
      • Total hospitalizations 201 - 1  new since yesterday
      • Total deaths 101 - 1 new since yesterday

      Lake Forest Park - 13,569 (2018) 
      • Total confirmed cases 323 - 0 new since yesterday
      • Total hospitalizations 17 - 0 new since yesterday
      • Total deaths 4 - 0 new since yesterday


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      Dembowski and Starr Sutherland Jr. Post 227 members lead the King County Council in the Pledge of Allegiance


      Dembowski and Starr Sutherland Jr. Post 227 members lead the King County Council in the Pledge of Allegiance

      “I want to thank the members of the Starr Sutherland Jr. Post 227 for leading the King County Council in our first flag salute since the start of the pandemic,” said King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski.

      Councilmember Dembowski also presented a proclamation from the County Council in honor of Memorial Day.

      Dwight Stevens in WW II
      The proclamation gives special recognition to veteran and former Shoreline resident Dwight Stevens, who died last year. 

      The flag salute was performed live on King County TV and took place at the Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza at Shoreline City Hall.



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      Letter to the Editor: Thank you from the Northshore Firefighters Local 2459

      To the Editor:

      This letter is a huge thank you to the citizens of Kenmore and Lake Forest Park from the Northshore Firefighters Local 2459! 

      Your overwhelming support in the last election to Reject Proposition 1 was a landslide victory (80% rejected) and meant the world to us.

      Your local firefighters are humbled and cannot thank you enough for turning out for this election. 

      There is much work to be done as we plan on endorsing several candidates in the upcoming elections. Join us on our Facebook page for updates. Thank you so much again!!

      Your Northshore Firefighters Local 2459

      Matt Hochstein
      Lynnwood, WA



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      Memorial Day weekend ferry travel sailing schedules are different from previous years

      Photo courtesy WSDOT

      If your holiday weekend plans include a ride on our ferries, double check our sailing schedules.

      Most routes will operate on timetables different from Memorial Day weekends prior to COVID-19.

      For people boarding a ferry in Seattle, be aware that the vehicle holding lanes and turnstiles for Bainbridge and Bremerton departures have temporarily swapped places.

      If coming aboard in a vehicle, prepare for the possibility of long waits during peak travel times.

      A face covering is required on public transportation, which includes all our vessels and terminals, indoors and outdoors, unless in a vehicle.



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      Virtual Open House: Explore all that Shoreline Community College has to offer


      You are invited to EXPLORE all that Shoreline Community College has to offer at our first all-campus virtual open house!

      Thursday, June 3, 2021, 3 – 5pm

      Whether you’re just starting your education or searching for a new career, you’ll find educational programs and support at Shoreline to reach your goals.

      Learn about our 100+ degrees and certificates in:
      • Arts and Communications
      • Business
      • Health and Medical
      • Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
      • Social Sciences and Education
      Speak with our experts about:
      • Financial Aid and funding
      • Support services
      • High school completion options
      • ESL
      • College readiness classes
      Register to attend here: shoreline.edu/openhouse

      For questions or more information email: connect@shoreline.edu


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      The Richmond Beach Celebration wraps up the month of May

      By Teresa Pape
      RBCA Executive Director

      The Richmond Beach Celebration wraps up the month of May

      Week 4: May 23-31, Get out and explore the community.

      There are many ways you can get outside and explore the community not only this week but all though the summer. 

      Here are a few ideas:

      Support the Richmond Beach Community Association
      with a membership or donation and get a free sample tasting kit of smoked extra virgin olive oil from Richmond Beach’s own Cascade Fusion. 

      Find the RBCA tent on Saturday, May 29, near the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, starting at 10:00am and become a member for only $20. Limited quantities of tasting kits will be available.

      The Shoreline Historical Museum Self-Guided Walking Tour:
      take a self-guided tour of the old town of Richmond Beach with an updated map and location descriptions.

      The tour is the result of a wonderful collaboration between the Richmond Beach Neighborhood Association (RBCA) and the Museum (SHM)! 

      Download the map from the SHM website at https://shorelinehistoricalmuseum.org/richmond-beach-walking-tour/ then follow along with a series of 35 recorded vignettes on the Richmond Beach YouTube channel, "RichmondBeachTV" describing each stop on the map, many with accompanying historical photos!

      Expedition Richmond Beach: The last year has seen many of you spend more time walking around Richmond Beach. Some walkers tend to stay in their part of the neighborhood while others wander into the far corners of the community. 

      Ever wonder just how observant you have been (or can be) on your walks? The RBCA has posted pictures of a bunch of “interesting” spots in Richmond Beach ranging from garden art to weird stumps to secret paths to small streams you might have missed.

      Richmond School 1891
      The area was divided into four quadrants – northwest, northeast, southwest, and southeast and organized the pictures into four albums, one for each quadrant. 

      Your challenge: pick a quadrant and go on an expedition to see how many of the spots you can find - there are four or five spots in each quadrant. 

      Some will probably be easy, some maybe not so easy, but all the pictures were taken from the sidewalk or roadway so there’s no need to sneak into anyone’s yard. 

      For a bigger challenge pick a quadrant you don’t normally walk in – it will be more fun exploring other areas and you will need to pay more attention to what you are walking by. 

      Find the details and pictures on the Richmond Beach Community Association’s website:

      Whether you are searching for your favorite orca art piece, having fun at one of the many parks or walking along the bluff, our community has it all and getting outside and exploring the community is a perfect way to end the month-long Richmond Beach Celebration.


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      WeatherWatcher: Windy day ahead - particularly for our neighbors in south county

      Thursday, May 27, 2021

      Photo by Carl Dinse

      A wind advisory has been issued for the immediate north of Shoreline, which includes Edmonds, Lynnwood and Everett. Gusts to 50mph are possible there.

      Shoreline is expecting gusts to 35-40mph until around 7pm today, Thursday, May 27, 2021.

      Since all of our deciduous trees have leafed out there is potential for wide spread tree damage and scattered power outages. Also a thunder clap or two can’t be ruled out for later this afternoon and evening.




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      Photo: Super Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse

      Photo by David Walton

      By David Walton

      The shot was at 4:23am when there was an ever so slight break in the clouds.

      Typical northwest photo experience: clouds always a gamble, but this one has an interesting result. 

      Several folks pulled up to the entrance of the park right about the time of the full stage of the eclipse (presumably to see the full eclipse), but most folks turned away because the clouds fully hid the moon during most of the full phase.

      Patience paid off for staying!

      This was taken from Richmond Beach Park (with special event permit to be in the park).



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      Shorewood seniors fill almost two trucks in Fill The Truck fundraiser

       
      Photo by Stacy Cha

      Volunteers at last Saturday's Fill The Truck sort all the donations into blue bins before loading them into the Goodwill trucks.

      Photo by Stacy Cha

      Student and adult volunteers unloaded the cars as donors drove up to Shorewood. All you had to do was show up with items to donate.

      Donations filled almost two trucks. "It would have been two," said senior class advisor Britt Harris but we had to stop early in order to have time to sort everything."

      Goodwill pays the student group a set amount for each truck filled. The money will go to class activities.


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      Call for Volunteers: Lake Forest Park Tree board and Parks and Recreation advisory board

      Trees at LFP Presbyterian Church
      Photo by Jerry Pickard
      LFP Tree Board

      The city is seeking applications for a vacancy on the Lake Forest Park Tree Board. 

      The Tree Board provides outreach and education to the community on tree-related issues, organizes and facilitates public events involving trees, and provides advice to the City Council on policy and regulatory issues involving trees.

      Tree Board meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month, at 7:00pm. Meetings are currently being held virtually. More information about the Tree Board is available on the City’s website.

      Board members should live within the Lake Forest Park city limits, but it is not required. 

      Interests or backgrounds in urban forestry, horticulture, and habitat restoration are encouraged, but not required. Membership terms are for three years.

      If you are interested in applying or have questions, please contact Assistant Planner Cameron Tuck.

      Blue Heron Park
      Photo by Mary Jo Heller

      Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

      The City seeks applicants for its Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, which is responsible for advising the City Council and Mayor on parks and recreation issues, including park master planning, recreation program evaluation, and park comprehensive planning. 

      All board member terms are three years and members are limited to two consecutive full-term appointments.

      If you are interested in serving on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board please complete an application and attach a resume and cover letter describing your experience and interest in parks and recreation. 

      Completed applications, with resume and cover letter, may be emailed to Cory Roche, Community Volunteer Coordinator, or mailed to her attention at Lake Forest Park City Hall, 17425 Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155.

      More information on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee is available here.



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      Finnish import store opens for business in LFP Town Center


      By Cynthia Sheridan
      Photos courtesy Finn Peaks

      Finn Peaks, the newest retail store at Lake Forest Park Town Center opened for business on Wednesday May 19, 2021. 


      This import company brings the Finnish culture to the world. Starting in 2018, it grew from two brands providing 34 products to five brands showcasing over 105 products ranging from art décor and jewelry to home and garden goods to textiles. 

      Finn Peaks’ goal is to share the minimalistic and sustainable approach of little-known brands, designers and small companies of Finland to gain exposure with every culture.


      Caring about our environment is important to every person. That’s why Finn Peaks brings in products that are eco-friendly: recycled bags, prints with eco-solvent ink and textiles that are 100% organic linen.

      According to owner Johanna Niemela, "There’s always space for a piece of Finnish culture in every home.”


      The store is located on the lower level lobby, just inside the main door. Store hours are Wednesday-Saturday 10am-5pm. Sunday-Tuesday it is closed.



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      Shoreline Police: This guy had not thought it through

      Forgery is a serious crime and you are sure to get caught if you use this man's technique.

      On 05/18/2021 at 4:41pm, deputies were dispatched to Bartells pharmacy in the 18400 block of Aurora Ave N in Shoreline.
       
      Deputies contacted the pharmacy tech who told them a male had dropped off a prescription to be filled for his "mother." 

      The man agreed to come back around 5:00pm to pick it up.

      When the pharmacy tech made a routine verification with the prescribing physician, she discovered inconsistencies. 

      For one, the name of the physician was incorrect. A more thorough examination of the prescription form led the pharmacy tech to believe that the suspect may have forged it.

      Moments later, the pharmacy received a phone call from someone claiming to be the medical provider, who wanted to confirm that their patient's son had dropped off the prescription.

      Clearly, the suspect had not thought this through. His phone number came up on the pharmacy's caller ID.

      The name on the caller ID just happened to be the same as the male who dropped off the prescription.

      At this point, the tech called the Sheriff's Office. Once deputies got the whole story, they stuck around until the male came back to pick up his "order." 

      When he did, he was positively identified and immediately taken into custody.

      The suspect was transported and booked into the King County Jail for Investigation of Forgery.

      Note: It is our policy not to show suspect's faces until they have been formally charged.

      KCSO



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      Case updates May 25, 2021

       Case updates May 25, 2021


      United States 
      • Total cases 32,994,369 - 20,956 in one day
      • Total deaths 588,421 - 545 in one day

      Washington state
      • Total confirmed cases 398,316
      • Probable (additional) cases 33,854   
      • Total hospitalizations 23,940 
      • Total deaths 5,741 

      King county 

      • Total confirmed cases 104,422 -  235 new since yesterday   
      • Total hospitalizations 6,120 - 9 new since yesterday  
      • Total deaths 1,578 - 3 new since yesterday 

      Seattle - population 744,995 (2018) 
      • Total confirmed cases 24,827 -  40 new since yesterday
      • Total hospitalizations 1,379 -  4 new since yesterday
      • Total deaths 408 -  0  new since yesterday

      Shoreline - population 56,752 (2018) 
      • Total confirmed cases 2,397 -  4 new since yesterday
      • Total hospitalizations 200 - 0  new since yesterday
      • Total deaths 100 - 0 new since yesterday

      Lake Forest Park - 13,569 (2018) 
      • Total confirmed cases 323 - 3 new since yesterday
      • Total hospitalizations 17 - 0 new since yesterday
      • Total deaths 4 - 0 new since yesterday



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      Flags at half-staff: Shooting in San Jose, CA and Memorial Day

      Pursuant to Presidential Proclamation, Governor Inslee hereby directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff immediately, in honor of the victims who tragically lost their lives on May 26, 2021, in San Jose, California.

      Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Sunday, May 30, 2021 or first thing Tuesday morning, June 1, 2021.

      Governor Inslee also hereby directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff on Monday, May 31, 2021, in recognition of Memorial Day. This federal holiday is in remembrance of the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces.

      Flags should remain at half-staff until noon on Monday, May 31, 2021 or first thing Tuesday morning, June 1, 2021.

      Other government entities, citizens and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.

      Please call 360-902-0383 if you have any questions about this flag lowering.



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      Shorewood wrestling vs Lynnwood 5-19-2021

      By Clark Norton

      It was a back and forth night on Wednesday as Shorewood Wrestling played host to the Lynnwood Royals.

      The match began with the 152 pound weight class and T-Bird sophomore Isaac Van Horn bumped up a weight class to get things started. Van Horn wasted no time, quickly taking his opponent to the mat and putting him in a cradle for a pin in just 38 seconds. 

      Lynnwood responded with a pin of their own at 160 pounds as the two teams traded wins for a 12-12 tie after four weights.
       
      In the next match, Shorewood’s Hunter Tibodeau returned to his usual 195 pound weight class to compete against Lynnwood’s Isaac Hernandez. Using constant attacks Tibodeau was able to build a huge lead before finally getting the pin with four seconds left in the second period. 

      Junior Max Null followed the big pin with a dominant 12-1 victory of his own, his fourth win in a row, to give Shorewood its largest lead of the night at 22-12.

      Lynnwood rallied with a pin at heavyweight and a forfeit at 113 pounds to briefly retake the lead 24-22, but Shorewood used their superior depth to earn three forfeit wins in the lower weights to narrowly escape with a 40-36 triumph.

      Shorewood wrestles next this Friday, May 28th, at Cascade High School. Wrestling begins at 7pm.

      Shorewood 40 - Lynnwood 36
      @ Shorewood High School

      *Match began at 152 pounds

      106: Double Forfeit
      113: Philipe Ban LYN win by forfeit
      120: Clayton Elder SW win by forfeit
      126: Bryan Nunez LYN win by forfeit
      132: Quincy Laflin SW win by forfeit
      138: Henry Poetzl SW win by forfeit
      145: Kaden Myers LYN pinned Liam Gallagher 1:06
      152: Isaac Van Horn SW pinned Timothy Johann 0:38
      160: Nate Wilder LYN pinned Addison Brueck 1:50
      170: Alberto Solano SW pinned Coty Green 1:22
      182: Noel Gougouehi LYN win by forfeit
      195: Hunter Tibodeau SW pinned Isaac Hernandez 3:56
      220: Max Null SW maj. dec. Dylan White 12-1
      285: Elisha Abuhanna LYN pinned Milan Johnson 2:53

      Shorewood Record: 3-3 Overall


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      Shorecrest wrestling vs Mountlake Terrace 5-26-21

      By Bryan Officer

      The Mountlake Terrace Hawks defeated the Shorecrest Scots 51-30 Wednesday night. The Shorecrest wrestling team now has a 2-2 record on the season.

      There were eight head-to-head matchups in the varsity competition. Mountlake Terrace captured five victories, while the Scots took home three.

      Shorecrest senior captain Elyjah Schultz scored six points for the Scots with a win in the heavyweight division. Peter Grimm (Freshman 160 lb.) and Thomas Rhodes (Junior 138 lb.) also tallied wins for the Scots.

      In addition to the varsity action, Wednesday's dual featured six exhibition/JV matches. The Scots fared well in those match-ups, highlighted by a win from senior Zachary Evans in his first ever live wrestling match. Zachary pinned his opponent using a combination of a "cross-face cradle" and a "half nelson."

      After Zachary's match, (the finale of Wednesday's meet) there was an outpouring of cheers from the Scots bench as well as from the Hawks team and fans. Mountlake Terrace showed great sportsmanship in that match and throughout the entire meet. 

      Thanks Hawks wrestling team! Goodluck the rest of the year, and we will see you on the mat next season.

      Varsity score report:
      Mountlake Terrace 51 vs Shorecrest 30


      106—Kaiju Fergerson (SC) won by forfeit
      113—Seraphim Treperinas (MLT) pinned George Fernandez (SC) 5:03
      120—Joseph Martinez (SC) won by forfeit
      126—Abishai Gounder (MLT) won by forfeit
      132—Jack Bode (MLT) won by forfeit
      138—Thomas Rhodes (SC) pinned Arun Khou (MLT) 1:05
      145—Tyler Ekse (MLT) pinned Jasper Brown (SC) :30
      152—James Fletcher (MLT) pinned Matthew Curtis (SC) 1:20
      160—Peter Grimm (SC) pinned Jacob Arevalo (MLT) :49
      170—Koby Sedy (MLT) dec. Max Rutledge (SC) 6-0
      182—Garrett Halcomb-Stockl (MLT) won by forfeit
      195—Edward Dodgin (MLT) pinned Jacob Smith (SC) 4:29
      220—Mason Michlitch (MLT) won by forfeit
      285—Elyjah Schultz (SC) pinned Gryphon Aman (MLT) :33



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      City of Shoreline Seeking Community Climate Advisors

      The City of Shoreline is working to fight climate change and we need your help!
       

      We are updating our 2013 Climate Action Plan (CAP) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create a healthier and more equitable community. 

      We are looking to hire 6-10 Community Climate Advisors to guide the update process and ensure that solutions to climate change benefit everyone in our community. 

      Advisors should work or live in Shoreline; represent diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives; and have connections to local organizations and/or resident or business groups. Advisors will form a limited term (approximately one year) Community Climate Action Workgroup to guide development of an updated CAP.

      Why are we hiring Advisors? 

      Climate change impacts certain communities in a disproportionate manner, and lower-income residents, communities of color, and differently abled populations often have less capacity to respond and adapt to changing conditions. 

      Their voices are often the least heard even though they may be the most valuable ones to add because they are the most vulnerable to climate impacts. The CAP update process will include many opportunities for broader community engagement, such as community surveys, workshops and targeted roundtables. 

      This group of Advisors is really intended to provide guidance and input on how we administer that broader community engagement and to ensure we have a diverse set of voices and perspectives informing development of the CAP.

      Advisors will be compensated $50/hour for their time participating in the Community Climate Action Workgroup and must complete a W-9 to receive payment. To learn more and apply, visit www.shorelinewa.gov/climate. Applications are due by Friday, June 18th.



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      Low tide beach walks Thursday through Sunday at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park

      Wednesday in Edmonds. Photo by Lee Lageschulte

      This week and weekend has the lowest tides of the month.

      More than 200 local residents have volunteered to help people learn about and enjoy our shorelines. 

      Beach naturalists can help you explore gently to keep animals and their homes safe; tell you what sea stars eat; explain why barnacles stand on their heads; describe how moon snails lay their eggs; and so much more.

      Walks are scheduled at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park through Sunday, May 30, 2021. Address: 2021 NW 190th St, Shoreline, WA 98177


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      Bird photography seminar from Gloria Z Nagler at Shoreline Community College

      An eye-catching portrait
      Photo copyright Gloria Z Nagler

      Gloria Z. Nagler whose wonderful bird photographs are a regular part of the Shoreline Area News, will be teaching a one-evening, online class on bird photography tips for Shoreline Community College. 

      Tips on Eye-Catching Bird Photography

      It’s said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and this class will help nature photographers tell better stories. 

      The focus of this class is birds: how to shoot eye-catching portraits and where to find photogenic subjects. 

      Students will pick up some naturalist lore, including which tools are useful for bird identification. The birds and other wildlife discussed are mostly found locally: on the street, in the parks, and in our backyards. 

      Monday, July 19, 2021 from 6 - 8pm online

      More information and registration here


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      Notes from Shoreline City Council meeting May 24, 2021

      Pam Cross, reporter
      Shoreline City Council Meeting
      May 24, 2021

      Notes by Pam Cross

      Mayor Hall called the remote meeting to order at 7:00pm. All Councilmembers were present.

      Proclamation

      I, Will Hall, Mayor of the City of Shoreline, on behalf of the Shoreline City Council, do hereby proclaim June 2021 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ) PRIDE MONTH in the City of Shoreline. And through this proclamation, the City of Shoreline affirms its support and acceptance for children, adults, families, and allies of the LGBTQ community.

      This year the Progress Pride Flag will fly at City Hall for the month of June. The flag includes a chevron with black and brown stripes to represent marginalized LGBTQ communities of color, and the Transgender Pride Flag colors of pink, light blue and white.

      Approval of the Agenda
      Agenda adopted by unanimous consent.

      Report of the City Manager, Debbie Tarry

      COVID-19 UPDATE

      Case numbers continue to improve in Shoreline. Shoreline residents have done an exceptional job protecting our community. Unfortunately, we have had our 100th death from COVID-19 and we mourn the loss of every person who has died from this pandemic.

      Governor Inslee has announced that the State will fully reopen on June 30th, or earlier if 70% or more Washingtonians over the age of 16 have received their first dose of the vaccine.




      NORTH KING COUNTY ENHANCED SHELTER UPDATE
      Located at 16357 Aurora Ave. N.

      This update should appear about once a month.


      SHORELINE WALKS

      Join your neighbors Saturday, June 5, at 10:00am for a moderately easy walk through Hamlin Park, Shorecrest, and South Woods Park. All participants are required to wear masks and maintain social distancing.

      For meeting place and other details go to shorelinewa.gov/shorelinewalks

      PUBLIC REMINDERS
      • In honor of Memorial Day, there will be no meeting next Monday, May 31. The next Council meeting will be held on Monday, June 7.
      • City Hall will be closed for services on May 31.
      • The Parks/Tree Board will hold a remote meeting on Thursday, May 27 at 7pm.
      • The Planning Commission will hold a remote meeting on Thursday, June 3 at 7pm.

      Council Reports

      Councilmember McGlashan talked about how well run the Shoreline vaccination site is, and how caring the volunteers are in assisting people with anxiety about being vaccinated.

      Public Comment

      Jackie Kurle, Shoreline, stated that the enhanced shelter update was encouraging. She would like the City to scale up the shelter residents appropriately, and maintain the gradual approach they are using now.

      Kathleen Russell, Shoreline, Save Shoreline Trees, talked about the width of new sidewalks in Shoreline and noted that Shoreline allows flexibility in the 8’ width requirement. This flexibility should be exercised in order to reduce the removal of tall mature native conifers.

      Approval of the Consent Calendar

      Consent Calendar approved unanimously by a vote of 7-0.

      Action Item 8(a) PUBLIC HEARING and Discussion on the Reprogramming of 2021 Community Development Block Grant (CBDG) Funding

      Presented by Bethany Wolbrecht-Dunn, Community Services Manager

      Shoreline receives Community Development Block Grant (CBDG) Funds on an annual basis. There is a Public Hearing and Action is taken each fall. These funds must benefit low and moderate income persons and a Public Hearing and Council approval is required on use of the funds. Shoreline receives approximately $322,000 annually. Approximately 48% is available for local projects.

      For 2021, there was a Public Hearing and discussion on September 14, 2020. The spending plan was approved on September 28. There were two capital projects providing $104,398 for the minor home repair program run through Sound Generations, and $71,885 for a housing development contingency fund. The City has generally used the contingency fund to hold funds until there is a project available that would qualify for CDBG assistance. There is a limit to the amount of time the City can hold these funds without losing them.

      The building that contains Ronald Commons and Hopelink Services on Aurora Avenue N has a serious leak issue that has and will likely continue to damage the foodbank and other spaces unless remedied. Unfortunately, the bids for the leak protection project came in significantly higher than the allocated $48,189. Staff is recommending the contingency funds be allocated to fully fund this project. Any remaining funds will be recaptured and available for reallocation.

      PUBLIC HEARING

      No public comments

      DISCUSSION

      This is newer construction. What year was it built? Why isn’t this the responsibility of the plumbing contractor?

      Reply: The building was opened in 2013. We looked into pursuing the contractor in 2019. We were told the cost of litigation would be too expensive relative to the cost of repairs.

      This additional expenditure will not reduce funds in other grants, right? This is just money we have set aside?

      Reply: That is correct. These funds are for work that comes out more expensive than the bid. And any funds they don’t use will return for the Council to reallocate as needed.

      I recall the 2019 conversation and I’m confident staff had exercised every possible push to find out who was responsible for this. We provided funding to our partners, in this case Compass Housing, and they are responsible for managing their own operation. And yet they come back to us for a significant amount of money to repair their facility. I’ll support it but I’m not happy about it. CBDG should not be a backstop to pay for projects that we fund.

      In the future we need to steer CBDG to direct services instead, like the minor home repair program that puts money into the hands of citizens so that they can fix their homes and stay in them.

      I share the frustration but, while it seems like a lot of money, it’s just a little over $1,000 per unit. Plumbing repairs are always expensive. At this point it’s important to keep the 60 households, some with small children, in safe, affordable housing in our community.

      Council agrees to see this back on Consent at the June 7 meeting.

      Action Item 8(b) Action on Ordinance No. 931 - Authorizing the Use of Eminent Domain for Acquisition of Certain Real Properties to Construct the State Route 523 (N/NE 145th Street) Aurora Avenue N to Interstate 5, Phase 1(Interstate 5 to Corliss Avenue) Project

      Presented by Tricia Juhnke, City Engineer

      The City Council discussed proposed Ordinance No. 931 at the May 10 meeting. It was very detailed so a full staff report was not requested for this meeting.

      Very short presentation noting eminent domain is used only as a last resort when they are unable to reach an agreement with a property owner.

      DISCUSSION

      No additional discussion.

      VOTE

      Passes unanimously by a vote of 7 - 0

      Study Item 9(a) Discussion of the Transportation Master Plan (TMP) Update

      Presented by Nora Daley-Peng, Senior Transportation Planner

      What is the Transportation Master Plan (TMP)?

      The Transportation Master Plan (TMP) is a long range blueprint for multimodal travel and mobility within Shoreline.

      It should be a realistic plan that results in action as it will guide multimodal investments over the next 20 years based on community needs and priorities.


      Why update it?

      The last update to the TMP was in 2011. It must be updated by 2023 to align with the City’s Comprehensive Plan 2025 periodic update and to meet the Growth Management Act requirements; maintain the City’s eligibility for pursuing future grant funding; and set policies and programs for guiding transportation investments in Shoreline.

      The purpose of this agenda item is to provide Council with a briefing on the progress of the TMP update and receive Council’s feedback on the draft TMP vision and goals.

      What will make the TMP successful?

      A clear and consistent vision; priorities that reflect community and Council goals; policies, programs and projects that reflect existing work and future needs; a feasible, financially sustainable roadmap.

      Key Considerations

      We need to look at the substantial growth, not just in Shoreline, but that our entire region is experiencing. The TMP will look at the synergy of land use as well as transportation choices. Regional transit investments coming to Shoreline include the two light rail stations opening in 2024 as well as new frequent bus connections to/from them. Ongoing transportation issues such as traffic congestion and safety need to be looked at and addressed.

      We want to maintain Shoreline’s quality of life by preserving neighborhood character and improving access to parks. Cost constraints are always an issue so we need to develop a realistic improvement plan to be implemented over the next 20 years. The TMP update will prepare the City for the future by planning for emerging technology like electric vehicles and their charging stations, car sharing and micromobility devices such as e-scooters and e-bikes.



      Key Discussion Topics that came up in our remote group meetings

      Safety of pedestrians due to speeding vehicles, but also due to the lack of street lights, sidewalks and crosswalks, and sight-lines obscured by overgrown vegetation or cars parked too close to intersections.

      Transit concerns were about getting to and from the light rail stations as well as getting around the City via transit.

      Micromobility included car-free options for making short trips to parks, commercial centers, light rail stations and others.

      There were a lot of questions about sidewalks and the status of new sidewalk projects financed by the voter approved tax. There were also questions about formalizing, extending and beautifying neighborhood paths to key destinations.

      There was interest in what type of bike facilities are proposed for City corridor projects as well as the 145th St. off-corridor bike network, and the Trail Along the Rail.

      Finally there was concern about the loss of on-street parking that is necessary to support local businesses.

      The Draft Vision for the TMP

      Shoreline has a well-developed multimodal transportation system that offers safe and easy travel options that are accessible for everyone, builds climate resiliency, and promotes livability. This system has been developed over time, informed by a robust, inclusive dialogue with the community.

      To achieve this Vision, the Draft Goals are to prioritize safety, seek equity, provide multimodal options, build a connected community, protect the environment, and support a vibrant community.

      DISCUSSION

      During Public Comment, Ms. Russell talked about sidewalk width. Now that we have lots of townhomes our zoning has changed since we decided on sidewalk widths. Since townhomes are not single family homes, they would require 8’ sidewalks. But some of those streets are relatively narrow. Is this going to be addressed? Also, will overall speed on City streets be addressed?

      Reply: These really point to the policymaking of the TMP. The three P’s (policies, projects, programs) need to work together to outfit our City for the next 20 years. The current TMP makes a good start on sidewalks. We are going to be looking at the different travel modes including walking. We can revisit sidewalk width as we move through the process.

      Regarding the speed limits, Kendra Dedinsky, our city traffic engineer, has been working on speed reduction for safety. She will be returning with an update for Council.

      Debbie Tarry: Kendra did bring forward proposed changes in speed limits and we are currently doing additional analysis. The proposed changes were on specific streets, so it isn’t city-wide. We will follow up to see if there are other discussions going on about city-wide changes and get back to you.

      I haven’t heard an update in a while about the Trail Along the Rail. Is it moving forward? Nearly complete?

      Reply: (Nora’s connection froze at this point. She rejoined the meeting later by phone.)

      Nytasha Walters, Transportation Services Manager, responds: Yes, there is some progress. We are working in close collaboration with Sound Transit on some sections. And we continue to look for funding. There are some off corridor sections that we’re also working on. So it’s coming together but it is going forward in pieces.

      How does this process interact with entities like Metro? There’s so much up in the air with the big changes that are planned there and the uncertainties of what cities like Shoreline will end up with.

      Reply Nytasha: We are closely following Metro, Sound Transit and Community Transit. With the restructuring and the way the services are being reallocated for King County, we are trying to ensure our interests and needs are well articulated in the TMP. We also have to prioritize capital projects that will help ensure that services provided to Shoreline can be accommodated.

      Mayor Hall encouraged Councilmembers and staff, as well as the public, to go to any city, locate a neighborhood that is vibrant and walkable, and measure the sidewalk. In his experience, 8’ sidewalk width is at the low end.

      We need to remember that the more sidewalks we build, the more we may impact trees. There is always a tradeoff. We have hundreds of thousands of existing trees in our City and almost none of them is really old growth. 

      The vast majority of our trees are less than 70 years old. Shoreline was clear cut once for logging, and later for development in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. I’ve been very pleased with the flexibility our staff has found to protect trees in several projects. And our canopy is being maintained. We are likely gaining 1,000 to 2,500 new significant trees every year because of the ones that were planted 30, 40 and 50 years ago. We are better than many perceive.

      I agree we need to be flexible in sidewalk width in areas that are commercial or mixed-use. But there are areas where we really need sidewalks for safety but it’s not reasonable to expect it to be a congregation spot. We don’t need 8’ sidewalks along Richmond Beach Road, for example. Flexibility can also save some of our mature trees. Sidewalks can dodge around a tree. I start with the perspective that we should be saving every last one. Unless we absolutely cannot.

      The Council confirmed that the staff vision and goals align with Council goals, expressed thanks for all of the hard work and the detailed staff report.

      Following the public meeting, Council met for an Executive Session: Property Acquisition - RCW4.30.110(1)(b)

      The Council may hold Executive Sessions from which the public may be excluded for those purposes set forth in RCW 42.30.110 and RCW 42.30.140. 

      Before convening an Executive Session the presiding officer shall announce the purpose of the Session and the anticipated time when the Session will be concluded. 

      Should the Session require more time a public announcement shall be made that the Session is being extended.

      Council took no action following the Executive Session.

      Meeting adjourned.



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