National Night Out block parties are returning to Burien neighborhoods on Tuesday, August 4. This annual community event brings neighbors together with local police, firefighters, and officials to strengthen connections and build community bonds. Check with your neighborhood for specific block party locations and times.
Burien’s third annual Community Yard Sale is coming to town on Saturday, August 8. This free, community-wide event brings neighbors together for bargain hunting and is a great opportunity to find deals while connecting with your community.
Burien City Council met on July 13, 2026, and named five candidates for a vacant seat while approving zoning changes. The council also experienced disagreement over a $67,000 settlement. The meeting addressed regional issues and generated political friction among local leaders.
The Washington State Patrol has issued a Silver Alert for a missing 72-year-old Burien man, activated through the King County Sheriff’s Office. Silver Alerts are used to help locate missing and at-risk individuals. If you have information about this person, contact local authorities immediately.
The Burien Creative District is calling for artists to participate in ArtLab Burien, an inaugural multi-disciplinary arts festival coming this August. The event will feature display, vending, and other artist opportunities. This is a direct opportunity for local creatives and a chance to celebrate Burien’s growing arts community.
The City of Burien is seeking artists to participate in the 2027 Burien Gallery Program. If you’re interested in showcasing your work, submit your application by Friday, August 28, 2026. This is a great opportunity for local and regional artists to gain visibility in our community.
Burien’s Arts-A-Glow festival is calling for artists to submit proposals for illuminated art installations and light-based works for this year’s September event in downtown Burien. The festival is free to attend, and organizers are actively seeking creative submissions from the community to showcase during the celebration.
Burien Police are inviting residents to participate in National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. The event encourages neighborhoods to host block parties and community gatherings as a way to strengthen connections between police and residents. This is a direct Burien community event organized by the local police department.
The Environmental Science Center will host free low tide beach naturalist programs at Seahurst Park Beach in Burien from April through August 2026. These recurring events give residents and visitors a chance to explore the local marine environment and learn about beach ecology in our own backyard.
Burien City Council will hold a regular meeting Monday, July 27 at 5:30 pm at City Hall to interview five candidates for Council Position 2 and vote on an appointment. Candidates are Jacques Colon, Jessica Ivey, Krystal Marx, Torrance Dixon, and Patricia Hudson. The council will also present a 2026 budget update before going into executive session after the interviews conclude.
Kristine Moreland, founder of Burien-based nonprofit The More We Love, published a guest editorial questioning whether Bloomside (Burien’s DESC permanent supportive housing building) is meeting residents’ needs. She recounts witnessing open drug use, untreated mental illness, and deteriorating health among residents, including individuals losing limbs to fentanyl addiction. Moreland calls for greater investment in recovery housing alongside traditional supportive housing, arguing that housing alone isn’t enough for people battling severe addiction and mental health crises.
A Burien resident has written a letter to the editor questioning the Port’s plan to cut Douglas Fir trees at Mathison Park in Burien. The letter raises concerns about removing the mature trees from this local community space. The full details of the Port’s project timeline and rationale are not included in this excerpt.
The King County Sheriff’s Office Burien-based Southwest Precinct Special Emphasis Team concluded a multi-month drug trafficking investigation on July 14, resulting in three arrests and the seizure of meth, fentanyl, heroin, and more than $95,000. The operation targeted a drug trafficking organization operating across King County. Full details about the suspects and investigation are available from the sheriff’s office.
Burien, Des Moines, and SeaTac officials held a July 14 workshop at Burien City Hall to help residents comment on the Port of Seattle’s Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The Port extended the public comment deadline by 30 days to August 20 at 5 PM. The cities provided presentation slides, poster boards highlighting concerns, a comment letter template, and additional resources to help residents navigate the 6,000-page document.
B-Town Blog explores the story behind Marlaina’s Mediterranean Kitchen, one of Burien’s beloved local restaurants. The piece reveals that the restaurant’s name honors a notable Burien resident rather than an owner or staff member, offering readers a personal connection to a neighborhood dining staple.
Gregory Seahurst Swim Club in Burien is launching a creative community initiative during swim meet season. Instead of participating in the traditional prank of toilet papering rival pools, the club is asking team members to donate unopened toilet paper to support a local cause. It’s a lighthearted way to redirect youthful rivalry toward helping neighbors in need.
Burien CARES is bringing adoptable dogs to Music in the Park, the free summer concert series held most Thursdays at Lake Burien School Park. Community members can enjoy live music—including Latin beats—while meeting dogs available for adoption, combining entertainment with a chance to support local animal rescue efforts.
Burien, SeaTac, and Des Moines officials expressed significant concerns about the Port of Seattle’s draft environmental review for a Sustainable Airport expansion plan at a July 14 open house. The three cities are formally challenging the proposal’s potential impacts on their communities, signaling coordinated opposition to the Port’s plans.
Hospitality House is hosting an open house and volunteer information session on Thursday, Aug. 6, inviting Burien community members to learn about its mission and get involved. The event offers a chance to explore service opportunities and connect with this local organization dedicated to serving the area.
Mary’s Place, Mercy Housing Northwest, and Urban ArtWorks are calling for Puget Sound artists to contribute to a public art project at Mary’s Place’s family shelter site in Burien. This is a direct opportunity for local artists to be part of the redevelopment of this important community resource serving families experiencing homelessness in our neighborhood.
The Burien Severe Weather Shelter is seeking community donations of clothing and essential items to support its expanding Day Center, which now operates four days a week and offers shower services. The organization serves unhoused and vulnerable residents in Burien and welcomes donations from neighbors who want to help.
Burien Pride 3-Day Celebration is happening June 5-7, 2026, as part of Washington’s statewide Pride Month festivities. The article from Lynnwood Times features a comprehensive guide to LGBTQ+ parades, festivals, and gatherings across Washington, highlighting Burien’s event alongside dozens of regional celebrations. For details about Burien Pride, visit burienpride.com.
A new exhibit celebrating Vicky Hartley’s life, activism, and artistic contributions is now on display in the front window of Highline Heritage Museum on SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien through July. This is a great opportunity for community members to learn about a local figure’s impact on our area.
Burien American Legion Post #134 is launching Vets Café, a new weekly meetup series for veterans across South King County to connect, collaborate, and share ideas. The initiative aims to build community among local veterans. Check the original source for specific meeting times, location details, and how to get involved.
A member of a violent home invasion robbery crew was sentenced to 25 years this week for crimes targeting families across Western Washington, including victims in Burien and South King County. The crew conducted multiple robberies in the region, affecting local residents and families in our community.
A Master Gardener column in the B-Town Blog offers spring gardening tips for 2026, published around the spring equinox on March 20. The column focuses on new plant companion recommendations for the upcoming growing season, providing practical advice for Burien-area gardeners looking to plan their spring plantings.
Noah Ball has been named the first recipient of the Tony Hayes Culinary Arts Scholarship, awarded by the Highline High School Alumni Foundation. The scholarship recognizes students pursuing culinary arts education. Highline High School serves Burien students, making this a meaningful opportunity for local graduates interested in the food service and culinary field.
Community Development Directors from Burien, Des Moines, and Sea-Tac held a joint open house to help residents understand the Three City Airport SAMP (a planning document affecting all three communities). The presentation featured improved video and materials compared to previous efforts, though attendance was under 40 people. Residents are encouraged to watch the presentation to prepare effective public comments on the SAMP.
The Burien Airport Committee and Des Moines Airport Advisory Committee will meet jointly on Monday, July 13 at 4:00 p.m. at Des Moines City Hall to review the Sustainable Airport Master Plan Draft Environmental Impact Statement. The meeting includes discussion of aviation noise and emissions, and takes place as the public comment deadline approaches later in July. The session will be livestreamed.
A father filed a federal lawsuit July 8 against Highline Public Schools, claiming the district violated his daughter’s constitutional rights by restricting her religious expression and forcing her to attend a mandatory assembly conflicting with her Christian beliefs. The ACLJ lawsuit centers on two 2025 incidents: the student’s distribution of Christian gospel tracts and a May 29 Inclusion Assembly covering LGBTQIA+ topics. Highline has not yet responded, saying it hasn’t been formally served.
King County Elections has released the official ballot for the primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026. The list includes all candidates who filed to run for county and local offices. Burien voters can check the full candidate roster on the King County Elections website to prepare before Election Day.
Washington State Patrol is seeking help solving a shooting that occurred around 6 p.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, on southbound SR 509. A caller reported being shot at on the highway. Authorities are asking the public for information about a red Jeep believed to be connected to the incident. If you have any details, contact WSP.
Puget Sound Energy raised electric rates by 12% effective January 1, with natural gas up 7%, driven largely by compliance costs from state climate and clean energy laws. PSE is now seeking approval for an additional 30% electric rate increase and 20% gas increase by 2029. Starting this month, the UTC has ordered PSE to itemize the “State Carbon Reduction Charge” as a separate line item on customer bills.
The Des Moines Area Food Bank launches its 2026 Summer Food Service Program on Thursday, June 18, offering free meals to children ages 1–18 at multiple South King County sites through September 2. Two Burien locations will participate: Hazel Valley Elementary (402 SW 132nd St.) serving breakfast and lunch Mondays and Fridays, July 6–31, and Lakeview Park (422 SW 160th St.) offering lunch on Mondays, July 6–27. For details, visit myfoodbank.org or call 206-878-2660.
Candidate filing has closed for the November 2026 election affecting Burien and nearby communities. Key races include U.S. House seats in districts 7 and 9, Washington state legislative positions, King County Council District 8, and judicial races. Notable: Burien Councilmember Alex Andrade is running for state representative in Legislative District 33, Position 2, and former Burien City Attorney Garmon Newsom II filed for a Seattle judgeship.
State Sen. Tina Orwall has launched her re-election campaign for Washington’s 33rd Legislative District, which includes Burien. Orwall is citing legislative accomplishments and backing from state and local supporters as she moves toward the next election cycle. The 33rd District represents South King County communities including Burien and surrounding areas.
The Highline School District’s Capital Facilities Advisory Committee voted 18–3 on March 30, 2026, to recommend a $615.4 million bond for the November 2026 ballot. The package includes rebuilding three middle schools (Sylvester, Cascade, and Chinook), modernizing programs at Southern Heights, and districtwide maintenance. Cascade Middle School would relocate to the Salmon Creek site, a move that sparked community concern over the loss of the Shark Garden but saves $46 million in construction costs.
The Highline School District is proposing a $12 million annual technology levy for four years, set to appear on the November 2026 ballot alongside a school replacement bond. The levy would cost homeowners about $180 per year on a $500,000 home. However, the proposal faces scrutiny as research suggests increased classroom technology may correlate with declining test scores rather than improvement.
About 40 residents attended a community forum on July 18 at Highline College in Des Moines to discuss Sea-Tac Airport’s expansion plans and environmental impacts. U.S. Rep. Adam Smith, State Sen. Tina Orwall, and Port of Seattle Commissioner Ryan Calkins fielded direct questions about noise, air quality, and pollution affecting nearby communities including Burien. The forum highlighted concerns about black oily residue on homes and vehicles, high asthma rates near the airport, and the limited near-term impact of sustainable aviation fuel on emissions.
The Port of Seattle extended the public comment deadline for its Sustainable Airport Master Plan (SAMP) environmental review from July 21 to August 20 at 5 p.m. Pacific time. The extension gives Burien residents and neighboring communities an additional 30 days to weigh in on near-term airport expansion projects. Comments can be submitted online to SAMP@portseattle.org or mailed to the Port of Seattle.
King County officials are warning residents that wildfire risk is increasing as summers grow hotter and drier across western Washington. Experts say a single ember could spark the next major fire, urging homeowners to “harden” their homes—a protective measure that helps reduce vulnerability to wildfires. This regional threat directly affects Burien residents preparing for fire season.
A Highline Public Schools parent and attorney is preparing to sue the district in King County Superior Court over a 9-10 month delay in responding to public records requests about the reassignment of Raisbeck Aviation High School Principal Therese Tipton. Kristen Price says the district is illegally stalling access to financial records and claims the delays expose taxpayers to unnecessary legal liability. She has given the district five business days to correct the timelines before filing a lawsuit.
Sound Transit’s Stride bus rapid transit network is expanding to serve the region, with the S2 line set to reach Burien by 2029. The nearly 50-mile BRT network includes three lines opening between 2028 and 2029, integrated with WSDOT’s $3 billion Interstate 405 improvements. Buses will run every 10 minutes at peak times in dedicated lanes, offering frequent transit service to complement the regional light rail system.
Highline Public Schools’ new Pacific Middle School is progressing toward completion as construction crews install exterior finishes including windows, brick masonry, and metal panels on the south side of the building. The school serves Burien-area families, and this update shows the project advancing on schedule with visible improvements to the building’s appearance.
Alberta announced a new 1-million-barrel-per-day oil pipeline to Canada’s West Coast, terminating near Washington state waters in the Salish Sea. Environmental groups and Northern Washington tribes warn the resulting increase in oil tanker traffic through shared waters threatens endangered Southern Resident killer whales (74 individuals), marine ecosystems, and fisheries. Construction could begin in late 2027, with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith citing the route as the fastest, most cost-effective option.
Federal Way has approved a one-year moratorium on data center development, joining Seattle, Burien, and other Washington cities with similar restrictions. The move reflects growing regional concern about data centers’ impacts on local infrastructure and resources.
Highline Public Schools is migrating student files from Google Drive to Microsoft OneDrive this summer as part of a broader shift to Microsoft tools district-wide. Students will start using more Microsoft applications when school resumes in the fall. Most families don’t need to take immediate action, but should expect the transition as the new school year approaches.
Highline Public Schools has released a tentative 2026-27 school calendar for planning purposes. The calendar will be finalized after the Highline Education Association votes on it in August. Families can view the proposed dates now, though changes may still occur before the official calendar is approved.
Growing research and parent concerns are challenging the assumption that more classroom technology benefits students. Los Angeles Unified is restricting screen time and eliminating devices for kindergarten and first grade; Seattle parents raised similar concerns at an April school board meeting about device safety and data privacy. The Highline School District is planning a technology levy for November 2026, prompting questions about whether increased tech spending aligns with national trends showing test score declines after states adopted classroom technology.
Highline Public Schools is transitioning to Microsoft technology tools, with staff training underway since fall 2024. The full shift to classroom use is expected in the 2026-27 school year. Families in Burien served by Highline should expect this change to affect how their children learn and interact with technology in school over the next couple of years.
A Burien man was assaulted following a disturbance at Kent Station on Tuesday, July 21. Kent Police arrested a 38-year-old Kent resident in connection with the assault, while Washington State Patrol made a DUI arrest after responding to a crash report on Highway 167. The incident directly involved a Burien resident, making it relevant to our community.
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels return to Seattle for Seafair July 31–August 2, with practice flights starting Thursday, July 30. Burien and South King County residents will notice increased aircraft activity as military jets take off and land at nearby Boeing Field. The main events run Friday through Sunday at Genesee Park in Seattle, with free general admission on Friday, or watch for free from local parks like Seward Park, Mount Baker Beach, or your own neighborhood as jets transit overhead.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown joined 24 states and governors in suing the federal Department of Homeland Security and FEMA over conditions attached to 2026 emergency preparedness grants. The lawsuit challenges requirements related to election procedures, immigration enforcement, and grant termination powers. Washington stands to receive over $23 million in affected grants for cybersecurity, maritime police training, disaster recovery, and earthquake preparedness—funds FEMA may withhold 20 percent of pending compliance.
Tukwila’s City Council voted 4–3 Monday to make camping on city-owned property a misdemeanor, joining Burien and SeaTac in restricting public camping. The measure passed despite divided testimony—supporters cited safety and park access concerns, while opponents warned it would criminalize homelessness rather than address root causes. Interim Police Chief Eric Lund said officers will prioritize connecting people with resources before enforcement.
The King County Flood Control District approved nearly $1.8 million for 16 habitat restoration and salmon recovery projects in District 8, which includes Burien. The funding supports watershed health and environmental work across the region, though specific project details and timelines were not provided in this announcement.
A King County Metro bus passenger was shot in the chest on July 5 near Fifth Avenue S. and S. Lander Street. Rashad Mackey, 36, is charged with first-degree assault and illegal gun possession after prosecutors say he fired into the bus following an argument. Mackey, a two-strike offender, was arrested and faces potential life in prison; he’s also a suspect in a separate bus knife assault in February.
Seattle City Council unanimously passed the Seattle Transit Measure, which will increase the city’s transit sales tax by 0.15 percent for ten years to fund over 100,000 additional transit service hours. Mayor Katie Wilson proposed the measure, which now goes to November voters. The measure will expand evening and weekend bus service, increase transit access programs, and invest in transit infrastructure, marking the longest-funded transit initiative in Seattle’s history.
Seattle City Council unanimously approved a renewed transit funding measure on Tuesday that will go before voters in November. The measure would increase the sales tax from 0.15% to 0.3%, generating $138 million annually to fund approximately 100,000 additional bus trips per year and double subsidized ORCA passes for low-income residents. Burien residents who use King County Metro service could see improved frequencies on select routes, though specific corridors serving Burien will be determined through the city’s existing equity criteria.
Sound Transit is proposing to shorten Route 560, ending service in West Seattle and instead terminating at Burien Transit Center. The change would increase frequency between Burien and Bellevue (every 20 minutes weekdays, every 30 minutes weekends) and redirect West Seattle travelers to King County Metro’s RapidRide H Line or other connections. Sound Transit is accepting public comment on the proposal through a survey, with a potential board vote in November.
Seattle City Council unanimously approved back-to-back 9.5% electricity rate increases for 2027 and 2028, raising average customer bills by about $10 per month each year. The utility cited aging infrastructure, inflation, and rising demand from electric vehicles and heat-pump adoption. The council also unanimously put a transit levy on the November ballot that would increase the transit sales tax from 0.15% to 0.3% for 10 years, costing the median household an extra $29 annually to fund more frequent bus service and free transit passes for low-income residents.
Seattle City Council voted to put a renewed transit measure on November’s ballot that would double the current sales tax funding for transit from 0.15% to 0.3%, generating approximately $138 million annually. If approved, the measure would expand bus service 47% to 280,000 trips yearly, expand transit subsidies for 12,000 residents, and fund improvements in South Seattle and the Duwamish Valley. The current measure expires next spring, and Mayor Katie Wilson is expected to sign the ballot measure next week.
Seattle’s Department of Transportation is relocating two public restrooms from Seattle’s Pioneer Square neighborhood after a property owner’s legal challenge. The solar-powered Throne restrooms, installed in May near First and Charles Street, generated over 9,000 uses in their first four weeks, but SDOT settled an appeal by Cederstrand Rentals LLC and agreed to find new locations by early August. King County Metro has also partnered with Throne to install restrooms at the Aurora Village and Burien transit centers.
U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal held a press conference in the Puget Sound region with immigrant-rights groups to denounce ICE enforcement practices, following fatal shootings by ICE agents in Texas and Maine. The event highlighted concerns about the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, a private immigration facility, and called for independent investigations, health inspections, and abolishing ICE. Local organizations urged community members to sign up for constitutional observer training and support rapid response networks to monitor enforcement actions.
Weekly Volcano compiled a comprehensive guide to Pierce County community resources for residents facing housing instability, food insecurity, domestic violence, health gaps, mental health crises, and other emergencies. The guide lists contact information and services for one-call navigators like 211 and Access Pierce, plus dozens of agencies serving Tacoma, Lakewood, Puyallup, and surrounding areas. Key resources include emergency shelter access, food banks, domestic violence hotlines, crisis lines, health clinics, and veteran services.
Sno-Isle Libraries has compiled a comprehensive extreme weather resource guide covering hot weather, poor air quality, and cold weather preparedness. The guide directs South King County residents to cooling and warming centers (including local libraries), safety tips from the CDC and Washington State Department of Health, energy assistance programs, shelter information, and real-time alerts for power outages and road conditions. Many resources are available in multiple languages including Spanish, Mandarin, Korean, Russian, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.
Federal judges in Western Washington appointed veteran attorney Roger Rogoff as US Attorney this morning, but President Trump fired him within hours. The judges appointed Rogoff after Trump’s unconfirmed pick, Charles Floyd, remained blocked by senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell. Rogoff says he’s considering a lawsuit, setting up a major legal showdown over who controls federal prosecutions affecting Burien residents.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay announced they are partially dismantling the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA), returning over 400 contracts worth $160 million to city and county departments by early 2027. The move comes as King County’s homeless population reached 18,365 in 2026—a 9% increase from 2024—and follows a forensic audit uncovering $13 million in accounting irregularities and $44.7 million in negative cash balance at KCRHA.
Two Fairhaven Middle School students are raising awareness about declining orca populations in the Salish Sea, highlighting historical captures (55 orcas taken from Puget Sound between 1962–1976) and ongoing threats from boat noise pollution. They urge community members to reduce vessel use, avoid water pollution, and support orca conservation efforts through donations and beach cleanups.
The Fauntleroy Art Show is accepting artist applications through September 4 for the November 13-15 event in West Seattle. Hosted by Fauntleroy Church since 2008, the show welcomes artists working in any medium who live or have studio space in West Seattle, Burien, South Park, Georgetown, or Vashon Island. Details and applications are available at fauntleroyucc.org/art-show.
Marie Kurka-Brown, a WSU Extension Master Gardener from the Class of 2020, shares insights on the importance of native plants in home gardening. The piece explores how gardening practices evolve and the role native plants can play in local landscapes. For full details and gardening tips, visit the B-Town Blog.
King County Sheriff’s Office rescue helicopters are receiving more than $1 million in federal funding, secured by U.S. Rep. Kim Schrier, to upgrade equipment and improve emergency response across western Washington. The money will pay for new instrument panels, rescue hoists, and transmission upgrades to enhance safety and speed for wildfire response, flood evacuations, and mountain rescues. The air support unit serves all of South King County and regularly operates throughout Washington, making this upgrade relevant to Burien residents and visitors.
Alberta announced a new crude oil pipeline route to Canada’s West Coast that would increase tanker traffic through waters near Washington state, sparking concern among environmental groups and tribes. The one-million-barrel-per-day pipeline would terminate at Vancouver’s Roberts Bank, with ships passing the San Juan Islands and risking spills in Puget Sound and killer whale habitat. Construction could begin in late 2027, with Alberta, the Canadian federal government, Trans Mountain Corporation, and Pembina Pipeline partnering on the project.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay and Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced a restructuring of the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) following a damning audit that revealed a $45 million deficit and $13 million in untracked funds. By January, Seattle and King County will retake control of over $158 million in service contracts, while KCRHA retains limited regional functions. The agency’s budget will be cut by more than half, affecting 20–25 staff jobs, with the long-term future of KCRHA to be decided later this year.
A multi-agency operation called Operation Guardian led to 21 arrests across Snohomish County for child sexual abuse and exploitation. One of those arrested, Jimy De Paz Perez, 24, is from Burien. The Washington State Patrol’s Missing and Exploited Children Task Force coordinated the effort involving over 30 law enforcement agencies. Charges include rape, commercial sexual abuse of minors, and other related offenses.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay and Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced a plan Wednesday to stabilize the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA) after an April forensic evaluation found $13 million in mismanaged funds and a $45 million deficit. The plan refocuses KCRHA on core regional functions like coordinated entry and federal funding applications, while moving service contracts back to King County and Seattle by August 1, 2027. An independent financial monitoring firm will embed in KCRHA through year’s end to strengthen oversight.
LIUNA Local 242 is hosting its fourth annual car show on Saturday, August 29, with all proceeds going to the Des Moines Food Bank. Car enthusiasts and community members are invited to attend this local fundraiser. Check B-Town Blog for details on time, location, and registration information.
King County’s Transportation District voted 5-4 Friday to raise sales tax by 0.1 percent starting January 1, 2027, generating roughly $100 million annually without a voter ballot. This is the same tax voters rejected 55-45 in 2014. The tax will raise Seattle’s combined sales tax to 10.65%, one of the highest in the country, while funding unincorporated areas and wealthy Eastside enclaves more than Seattle itself.
Shark Garden, a beloved community gathering space in the Highline area, faces closure by 2026 as Highline School District plans a possible Cascade Middle School rebuild at the former Salmon Creek Elementary site. The garden offers free summer classes and events throughout June and July, including native plants, mushroom growing, and cultural cooking workshops. Director Taryn Koerker describes 2026 as pivotal as organizers explore relocation options and seek community support through donations.
South County Fire’s Board of Commissioners unanimously advanced a $420 million bond measure to the November ballot. The bond would fund new fire stations, station replacements, and seismic upgrades across the district, which serves Burien and surrounding communities in South King County.
An activist filed a state initiative (IL27-123) proposing to overhaul Sound Transit’s board governance. The proposed “Effective and Responsive Transit Board Reform Act” would replace the current board of local elected officials with 11 directly elected board members plus 7 appointed experts, taking effect in 2029 if approved. The move comes after Sound Transit delayed major ST3 projects approved by voters in 2016, including indefinitely postponing the Ballard light rail line.
Seattle City Council voted 9-0 Tuesday to give Mayor Katie Wilson until August 1 to recommend whether to restructure, dissolve, or continue the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA). The vote follows an April audit finding $13 million in mismanaged funds and a $45 million deficit at the agency created in 2019. Several council members support dissolving KCRHA over financial mismanagement concerns.
ORCA is launching a limited-time 3-Day Puget Pass from June 1 through August 31, 2026, offering regional transit savings across the Puget Sound area. Adults pay $18 for three consecutive days of unlimited travel, while ORCA LIFT, seniors, and disabled riders pay $6. The pass covers most regional buses and Link light rail but excludes Washington State Ferries and certain specialty services. Burien residents can purchase passes online, via the myORCA app, or at vending machines.
ORCA launched a limited-time 3-Day Puget Pass on June 1, available through August 31, 2026. The pass costs $18 for adults or $6 for ORCA LIFT and senior/disabled riders, offering unlimited regional transit travel for three consecutive days. Burien residents can purchase the pass online at myORCA.com, via the app, at vending machines, or by calling 888-988-6722.
The King County Regional Homelessness Authority faces crisis after an April forensic audit revealed a $45 million deficit, including $13 million unaccounted for or overspent. Seattle and King County leaders are divided on whether to dissolve or reform KCRHA, with both jurisdictions setting an August 1 deadline for a restructuring report. The agency manages $65 million in federal housing grants serving 4,500 households and key systems like homeless intake and case management—any hasty dissolution could jeopardize federal funding and disrupt regional services.
A federal judge is reconsidering whether to throw out Washington’s redrawn legislative maps, a decision that could delay the Aug. 4 primary and leave 67 candidates in limbo. The maps, which shifted over 300,000 people across 13 districts in 2024 to strengthen Latino voting power in the Yakima Valley, are now being challenged after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling curtailed race-based redistricting. King, Pierce, and Thurston county voters could be affected if the maps are reversed, according to Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, who warned it would be a “recipe for chaos.”
Washington voters will elect five of nine state Supreme Court justices this November, a majority of the court. The current progressive court has led nationally on civil rights and struck down the drug possession law in 2021. Key races include defending Ferguson appointees Colleen Melody and Theo Angelis, plus three open seats. Dark money groups tied to conservatives, including Full Court Press and the Citizens Action Defense Fund, are backing candidates to shift the court’s direction, particularly around the contested new millionaires’ tax.
A state report on superintendent pay reveals that four of Washington’s 11 highest-paid school leaders work in South King County school districts, which includes the Burien area. The finding highlights significant compensation differences among district leaders across the state. Details on specific names, districts, and salary amounts are available in the full report.
Sound Transit will temporarily change Link light rail service later this month and into early August for scheduled maintenance work. While specific details aren’t provided, Burien residents who use the light rail system should watch for service adjustments during this period. Check Sound Transit’s website for exact dates and alternate routes to plan your commute accordingly.
King County Council approved a $431 million supplemental budget for 2026-2027. As a major funding decision affecting the county that serves Burien, this budget will influence services and programs available to residents, though the specific allocation details were not provided in this brief report.
Drivers in south King County should plan for nighttime lane and ramp closures on I-5 and SR 509 in Kent and SeaTac from Monday, July 27 through Friday morning, July 31, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation. While the closures are in neighboring cities, they may affect Burien residents commuting on these major regional corridors during that week.
A seaplane carrying 11 people crashed Thursday at about 5:20 p.m. near Sucia Island in the San Juan Islands, roughly 80 miles north of Seattle, and caught fire. All aboard were rescued by Coast Guard, good Samaritan vessels, and other agencies and transported to hospitals. The de Havilland DHC-3 Otter, operated by Kenmore Air, was traveling from Lake Union in Seattle to Roche Harbor when it went down in Shallow Bay. The FAA will investigate the cause.
A U.S. House subcommittee heard testimony Tuesday on HR 9621, the Northwest Endangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act, which would let Washington and treaty tribes remove sea lions and harbor seals in specific locations under strict caps. Washington has spent nearly $4 billion—roughly $1 million daily—on salmon recovery under federal court order, but sea lion predation at bottlenecks like the Ballard Locks and Willamette Falls undermines these efforts. Sea lion removals at Willamette Falls reduced winter steelhead extinction risk from 89% to 11%, according to state estimates.
Seattle’s city council advanced Mayor Katie Wilson’s transit funding measure Thursday, keeping it at a 0.3% sales tax for 10 years to increase King County Metro bus service by around 100,000 trips annually. Proposals to scale back the measure were defeated, including one that would have cut it to 0.225%. The measure heads to a full council vote next Tuesday before appearing on November’s ballot, and would expand late-night service, restore 2019 bus service levels by late 2028, and extend free ORCA cards to trade school students.
Washington tribes including the Swinomish and Squaxin Island Tribes sued the federal government Tuesday over Trump administration changes to Endangered Species Act rules that redefine “harm” to protected habitats. The rule change, announced July 10, reduces permitting requirements but tribes argue it threatens chinook salmon recovery in the Puget Sound and Skagit River, which are central to their treaty rights. Nine environmental groups filed a separate lawsuit challenging the same rule.
June was the eighth-warmest on record for the Seattle-Tacoma area, averaging 73.7 degrees with two days reaching the 90s, though an unusual cool streak from late June into early July brought below-average temperatures to the Puget Sound region. Looking ahead, meteorologists expect warmer-than-average conditions and possible thunderstorms for late July, with concerning implications for wildfire risk across western Washington.
King County Prosecutor Leesa Manion is pushing state lawmakers to pass legislation requiring recyclers to photograph copper wire and upload it to a law enforcement database, similar to successful catalytic converter theft measures. The bill failed to advance in 2026 but Manion says she’s optimistic it will pass in 2027. Copper wire theft costs King County residents far more in damages than thieves gain—a recent West Seattle Bridge case involved $1,000 in stolen wire but $100,000 in damage.
Pierce Transit’s board unanimously approved a ballot measure for November that would increase the dedicated sales tax from 0.6% to 0.9%—the first funding increase since 2002. If approved, the measure would expand service by roughly 40%, add four new routes, extend hours on 23 routes, and provide free transit to seniors. The expanded network is designed to support Pierce County’s rapid growth and prepare for light rail service to Seattle by 2035.
Seattle’s urban stadium design gave the 2026 FIFA World Cup a major advantage over other U.S. host cities. While Kansas City, Dallas, Boston, and New York struggled with traffic chaos and transit failures, Seattle’s centrally located Lumen Field enabled record-breaking light rail ridership, walkable fan marches, and smooth crowd management. The city’s pre-existing transit infrastructure and temporary pedestrian zones created a model that contrasts sharply with car-dependent suburban stadiums elsewhere.
Washington is heading into peak wildfire season with dangerous dry conditions statewide. The National Weather Service issues Red Flag Warnings when weather and environmental factors—very low humidity, strong winds, potential lightning, and extremely dry fuel—create rapid wildfire spread conditions within 24 hours. Western Washington residents should prepare now by creating defensible space around homes, avoiding outdoor burns, and staying alert for fire weather alerts through August.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown led a coalition of 24 state attorneys general in opposing a proposed USPS rule that would restrict mail-in and absentee ballots for federal elections. The coalition filed a formal comment Thursday asking USPS to withdraw the rule, arguing it violates the Constitution and would create confusion ahead of the 2026 election. A federal judge already struck down a related Trump executive order, but USPS has not rescinded its proposed rule.
The Transit Riders Union surveyed nearly 500 people about Seattle-area transit benefits and found that unlimited passes boost ridership—65% of pass holders commute by transit compared to 50% without. The analysis highlights gaps: low-to-middle-income riders often earn too much for ORCA LIFT ($1 fares for those under 200% poverty line) but lack employer passes, while a monthly pass costs $108. As Seattle considers a fall transit measure with a 0.15% sales tax increase, advocates recommend expanding low-income fares and opening bulk pass programs beyond employers to broaden access.
A statewide initiative to repeal Washington’s 9.9% tax on income over $1 million has qualified for the November ballot after collecting 317,506 signatures—exceeding the 309,000 required. Initiative 26-645 would also prohibit future state and local income taxes. Supporters say it protects entrepreneurs and retirees; opponents argue it funds important public investments. Organizers will submit signatures to the Secretary of State on July 2.
Democratic leaders launched the “No Hate in WA State” campaign in June to oppose two conservative-backed ballot initiatives (IL26-001 and IL26-638) targeting transgender rights that will appear on Washington’s November ballot. The initiatives would require schools to disclose student medical information to parents and mandate invasive sex verification exams for girls in school sports. U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, and local advocates spoke at the Seattle rally opposing the measures, which are backed by $5.5 million in funding from Let’s Go Washington PAC.
State Senator Rebecca Saldaña and Seattle Port Commission President Toshiko Hasegawa faced off June 10 at a housing forum in Beacon Hill for the open King County Council District 2 seat. Both progressive candidates support expanding affordable housing and transit while preventing displacement, but differ on funding approaches—Hasegawa backs a county levy for social housing while Saldaña prefers state-level progressive revenue options. The August 4 election will determine who fills the seat vacated when Girmay Zahilay became County Executive.
Seattle and Redmond police have reported a surge in roofing scams targeting elderly homeowners since April 2025, with 22 victims losing nearly $932,000 in the Seattle area alone. Scammers use unsolicited door knocks, false damage claims, and pressure tactics to extract large payments without written contracts. The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington warns Puget Sound homeowners to verify L&I registration, demand written estimates, check reviews, and hire local, established contractors to protect themselves.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson proposed renewing the Seattle Transit Measure with a 0.15% sales tax increase (raising the total to 0.3%), generating about $138 million annually for King County Metro bus service. If approved by the City Council by mid-July and voters in November, the measure would add 100,000 bus trips yearly, with priority given to routes in South Seattle and equity-focused neighborhoods. While primarily a Seattle initiative, the regional transit expansion could indirectly benefit Burien residents who use cross-county bus connections.
As we mark 137 years since Seattle’s devastating 1889 Great Fire, meteorologists warn that warmer, drier conditions forecast for Western Washington this summer could increase wildfire risks across the region. With mountain snowpack at 50% of average, below-normal rainfall, and seasonal forecasts favoring warm, dry weather through September, communities including those in South King County face potential wildfire threats. Residents can prepare now by creating defensible space around homes, trimming vegetation, and clearing gutters.
Seattle City Council approved a resolution requiring Mayor Katie Wilson to recommend by August 1st whether to restructure, continue, or dissolve the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, following a May audit revealing a $44.7 million spending hole. The decision affects Burien residents since KCRHA serves the broader region and any restructuring could impact how homelessness services are delivered countywide, though this is primarily a Seattle and county governance matter.
Pierce Transit unveiled an expansion plan Monday that would boost service by 40% if voters approve a 0.3% sales tax increase in November. The proposal includes four new routes, increased frequency on dozens of existing lines, extended evening service until 10pm on weekdays, and upgrades to the Stream express service. Without new funding, Pierce Transit faces a fiscal crisis by 2027, with potential service cuts beginning in 2031.
The Nondrivers Alliance is urging transit board members across Washington State to participate in Week Without Driving 2026 (October 1–8) by riding public transit. A survey of transit board members revealed that only 4% ride transit daily and 12% have never ridden their agency’s service. The advocacy group argues that elected officials who regularly use transit make better policy decisions affecting the one-third of Americans who can’t or don’t drive.
Mimi Teriyaki #2, a takeout restaurant in South King County, has new owners—Sujin and David—who also run Tori Sake in Burien. Under their management since early 2026, the spot has gained attention for Korean-influenced katsu and teriyaki dishes with creative menu names like “Nashville Firebird” and “Moo-licious.” Standouts include spicy fried chicken sandwiches ($8) and short rib plates ($18) with generous sides. The owners’ savvy social media marketing and strong execution have made it a neighborhood draw.
Marine scientists are monitoring Puget Sound closely as Washington’s current heat wave drives residents to beaches. The warming waters pose potential ecological concerns that researchers are tracking as surface temperatures rise, though specific impacts and findings remain under investigation.
Snohomish County Parks & Recreation has launched planning for the Centennial Trail South Extension, a 12-mile trail project that will connect Snohomish to Woodinville along a former railroad corridor and link to King County’s Eastrail network. The county is seeking community input through an online survey (open through August 29, 2026) and summer outreach events. With $2 million in funding secured for planning and design through 2027, phased construction is expected to begin over the coming decade.
King County Elections mailed ballots today for the August 4 primary election, which affects Burien voters as residents of King County. Key races include U.S. House District 7 (Rep. Pramila Jayapal vs. three challengers) and District 8 King County Council (Teresa Mosqueda vs. two opponents), plus the Seattle Public Library levy renewal and contested state Supreme Court positions. Ballots must be returned by 8 p.m. August 4 via drop box or postmarked by that date if mailed.
A B-Town Blog post explores gardening and creating pollinator-friendly spaces, drawing on personal memories of gardening with family. The article discusses what the author calls “the art of living” through gardening practices that support local ecosystems, though the full content focuses on broader gardening principles rather than Burien-specific programs or events.
King County’s Trailhead Direct shuttle service begins its 2026 season this Saturday, offering weekend service every 30 minutes to Mount Si and Issaquah Alps trailheads through August 30. The shuttles connect from Sound Transit light rail stations including the new Judkins Park station, with fares matching regular Metro bus rates ($3 adults, free for youth 18 and under). Last year the service drew 12,263 riders, a 35% increase, though some popular Issaquah Alps trailheads won’t be served this season due to route streamlining.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup arriving in a month, Seattle’s tourism industry is bracing for a smaller-than-expected economic boost. Nearly 80% of local hotels report bookings below expectations, far short of the initial forecast. The city will host six matches and expects $845 million in economic impact—91% of December’s projections—but far below the 50% revenue growth typical for Super Bowl host cities.
Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin and Community Transit CEO Ric Ilgenfritz announced April 22 that the two agencies are resuming talks to merge Everett Transit and Community Transit into one network serving Snohomish County. An interlocal agreement will be drafted for the city’s annexation into Community Transit’s service district, with both the Everett City Council and Community Transit Board expected to vote this fall. The consolidation aims to improve bus connections ahead of light rail expansion in the region.
An Oregon man has been charged with nine counts of unlawfully fishing for protected sixgill and sevengill sharks in Puget Sound, following a months-long investigation by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police. Connor Seifert, 27, allegedly posted photos and videos on social media showing him catching and handling the sharks for trophy photos. Fishing for these protected species is illegal in Washington waters because Puget Sound serves as a nursery for young sharks during a critical phase of their lives.
Steve Gordon of Future 42 is urging Washington voters to pay attention to state Supreme Court races, warning that undervoting—leaving the ballot blank for justices—could swing close races. Gordon cited 2024’s race where candidate Dave Larson lost partly due to undervotes, mainly from Eastern Washington. Future 42 and an allied group called Full Court Press are working to educate voters about judicial candidates, particularly this year’s two newly appointed justices with ties to Governor Bob Ferguson.
The Edmonds School District spent over $300,000 to remove lead from school water after testing revealed contamination at multiple sites, with one sink measuring 412 parts per billion—roughly 80 times the state standard. Health advocates are pushing Washington state to increase childhood blood lead testing, which remains among the nation’s lowest at under 10%. Snohomish County, which includes areas near Burien, has improved its testing rate from 3.3% in 2020 to 11.7% in 2025, but experts say more awareness and provider support are needed.
The Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park in Seattle’s Pioneer Square tells the story of how an 1897 gold discovery transformed Seattle from a logging town into a major port city. The free, family-friendly museum features artifacts, interactive exhibits, and a historic walking tour. Notably, the article mentions that wealthy miners who struck it rich purchased large portions of Lake Burien and Old Burien, connecting this regional history directly to our community’s origins.
The Museum of History & Industry in Seattle will host the Freedom Plane National Tour from July 30–August 16, 2026, featuring rare founding-era documents including the original Declaration of Independence engraving, U.S. Constitution draft, and Bill of Rights. Admission and all MOHAI galleries will be free during the 18-day run. Timed-entry tickets are encouraged; MOHAI members get early access starting June 1, with public tickets available June 15. This is the final stop on the national tour and the only Pacific Northwest viewing opportunity.
The Highline Journal highlights three Pacific Northwest trails celebrating American industrial heritage: Dash Point State Park in Federal Way featuring logging history with distinctive old tree stumps, Cougar Mountain Regional Park near Newcastle with coal mining sites and historical exhibits (note: Red Cedar trailhead currently closed for sewer work), and Georgetown in Seattle with the Georgetown Steam Plant and historic brick buildings from when it was an independent city. The article mentions Seahurst in Burien as a comparison point for beach types in the region.
Washington’s whale watching season peaks from May to October around Puget Sound, though whales inhabit local waters year-round. The article explores what goes into whale watching operations and potential threats to the activity, offering insight into a regional marine tourism and conservation issue that touches communities throughout the greater Puget Sound area.
An Oregon man named Connor Seifert faces 10 counts after allegedly illegally catching and wrestling protected sixgill and sevengill sharks in South Puget Sound near Pierce County. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says the trauma from these incidents likely caused pregnant sharks to lose their pregnancies. Seifert was charged with nine misdemeanor counts of unlawful recreational fishing and one count of false statement to a public servant after months of investigation.
Sound Transit is advancing the West Seattle light rail project with three updates: soil drilling on 39th SW between Dakota and Genesee through late July, a competitive bidding process for the Duwamish River bridge (deadline July 28, potential value up to $900 million), and a new neighborhood planning survey open through August. While West Seattle is separate from Burien, regional transit expansion affects countywide commuting patterns and housing development near stations.
A citizens group’s four-year effort to preserve the historic Masonic Home property in Des Moines has ended after losing a case in King County Superior Court. The organizer stated they spent their personal savings and retirement funds on the fight. The group has decided not to file another appeal, marking the end of their preservation campaign for the neighboring community’s landmark building.
As Seattle-area temperatures climb, homeowners experiencing AC problems can check a few basics before calling for emergency service: verify the thermostat is set to cool mode, inspect the air filter for clogs, check for tripped breakers, and listen for unusual sounds from the outdoor unit. HVAC Service Supervisor Josh Torgerson notes that many cooling failures during heat waves stem from common issues like dirty filters or failed capacitors, which are often repairable once properly diagnosed.
Seattle City Council unanimously approved an expansion of the Utility Discount Program on Tuesday, making an estimated 31,000 additional low-income households eligible for reduced utility bills starting January 1, 2027. The program will offer 60% discounts on Seattle City Light bills and 50% discounts on Seattle Public Utilities bills for households earning less than 60% of area median income, potentially saving qualifying families over $1,000 annually.
Washington tribes and environmental groups filed two lawsuits Tuesday in U.S. District Court for Western Washington challenging a Trump administration rule change that rescinded the legal definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act. The Swinomish and Squaxin Island Tribes worry the July 10 rule change will threaten Chinook salmon recovery in the Puget Sound and Skagit River, affecting their treaty fishing rights. Nine environmental organizations also sued, arguing the change will weaken protections for salmon, steelhead, grizzly bears, and spotted owls.
A Seattle man has been charged with shooting a passenger on a King County Metro bus on July 5 near Fifth Avenue South and South Lander Street. Rashad Mackey, 36, allegedly fired into the bus after accusing people of taking his phone, striking a victim in the chest. As a three-strike offender with prior felony convictions, Mackey faces potential life in prison. He is also suspected in a separate February 2026 knife assault on a bus.
Costco has rolled out Kirkland Signature chicken strips nationwide to food courts across the Seattle area, including Bonney Lake and Federal Way locations. The $6.99 order includes five baked chicken breast strips (about 3.5 ounces each) with dipping sauce, totaling over a pound of chicken for roughly half the price of Raising Cane’s or Chick-fil-A. The strips offer juicy, flavorful meat with a smoky sauce, though early orders showed minor quality control issues as crews adjust to the new menu item.
Snohomish County is asking residents to weigh in on a draft Road Safety Action Plan through an online open house available until September. The county has seen a 70% increase in serious and fatal traffic injuries between 2014 and 2024, and officials are seeking community feedback to identify priorities and projects to reduce crashes, particularly on high-injury rural roads.
Seattle City Council is debating Mayor Katie Wilson’s proposal to increase the Seattle sales tax by 0.15% to fund expanded bus service and transit programs, generating an estimated $138 million annually. Council members Bob Kettle and Rob Saka are proposing amendments to reduce the tax increase and modify funding priorities, with a public hearing set for July 13th and a council vote required by August 4th to place the measure on the November ballot. While this is regional news affecting the broader South King County area, it does not directly impact Burien governance or local services.
Law enforcement arrested 21 people across Snohomish County this week in “Operation Guardian,” a multi-agency task force targeting child sexual exploitation. One arrestee, De Paz Perez Jimy, 24, is from Burien. The Washington State Patrol’s Missing and Exploited Children Task Force coordinated the operation involving 30 agencies statewide. Charges under review include attempted rape of a child, commercial sexual abuse of a minor, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
Washington State’s population growth has slowed significantly, according to April 2026 estimates from the Office of Financial Management. Seattle added 6,800 residents (0.8% growth), while King County grew by 13,000 residents total, reaching 2.4 million. Statewide, net migration dropped 30% year-over-year, though the state added 41,000 housing units, with 62% being multifamily developments.
SE May Valley Road near Issaquah-Hobart Road will close completely starting June 15 for up to 10 weeks to replace the 1932-era Fifteen Mile Creek Bridge #493C. The full closure affects all vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles, with a signed detour route in place. The new bridge will add safety features including 8-foot shoulders for walking and biking, modern railings, and increased span length to improve creek flow and reduce flooding risk.
King County officials are warning residents about increased drowning hazards on local rivers this summer following December flooding. The advisory comes as water conditions remain unpredictable in the region’s waterways. Burien residents who enjoy river activities should stay alert to changing conditions and heed safety warnings from county authorities.
King County’s Trailhead Direct shuttle service is returning in 2026, offering transit access to five popular hiking destinations along the I-90 corridor. Thanks to Seattle Transit Measure funding, SDOT will cover 50% of the operating costs. The “Park. Ride. Hike.” service connects Seattle-area residents to outdoor recreation, making trailhead access easier without a car.
The Seattle Art Museum is hosting “Monochrome: Calder and Tara Donovan” through January 17, 2027, featuring black sculptures and prints by Brooklyn-based artist Tara Donovan alongside matte-black Alexander Calder pieces. The exhibition, curated by Donovan with SAM curator Catharina Manchanda, uses monochromatic black as its central theme to highlight materials, texture, and form. This is the third show in SAM’s Calder series, which began in 2023 thanks to a donation by the Shirley Family.
Washington’s Department of Agriculture will conduct its annual Spartina (cordgrass) eradication efforts from June 1 through November across state estuaries, including Puget Sound, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay. The invasive weed threatens salmon habitat, shellfish industries, and native ecosystems. The state has reduced infestations from over 9,000 acres in 2003 to 6.4 acres in 2025, though 60% of 202 infested sites remain.
King County Metro is launching a free waterfront shuttle service starting May 21 through Labor Day to help residents and visitors navigate Seattle during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The shuttle will connect major downtown destinations including Seattle Center, Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, and the waterfront, with additional free Match Day shuttles operating during Seattle’s six World Cup matches to transport fans to games and fan celebrations.
Consumer expert Herb Weisbaum shared tips for hiring reliable tree services in the Puget Sound area, including getting multiple estimates, verifying licenses through Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, and confirming insurance coverage. For a 35-foot oak tree removal, quotes ranged from $1,355 to $3,650, with wood hauling costs varying dramatically—one estimate was $3,500 versus $950 for the same job. Checkbook.org is offering free ratings for 50 local tree services through June 5.
Washington State Ferries released its 2026 Service Contingency Plan, outlining temporary improvements for ferry service during the FIFA World Cup this summer. WSF will keep 20 of 21 vessels available, position two relief vessels at Eagle Harbor, add extra crew and terminal staff, and relax its 24-hour replacement rule to speed responses on Central Puget Sound routes. The plan affects riders region-wide, including those using ferries for World Cup travel between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia.
Washington State Ferries is preparing for increased travel demand during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when Seattle will host six men’s soccer matches. WSF plans to keep 20 of its 21 vessels available, deploy extra crews and staff, and prioritize service on busy Central Puget Sound routes including Seattle-Bainbridge Island, Seattle-Bremerton, and Edmonds-Kingston. Residents using ferries during the June-July event should check the WSDOT app for schedules and real-time updates.
Regional leaders gathered in Lynnwood on July 13 to discuss climate action across Snohomish County as part of PNW Climate Week. Snohomish County’s Climate Resiliency Plan, launched in late 2024, aims to coordinate efforts among agencies and cities to address greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for climate-related emergencies. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency outlined 25 strategies and 100+ actions to meet 2030 and 2050 climate goals, including EV charging infrastructure and the Energize program to weatherproof and electrify buildings across the region.
Boeing officially launched its $1 billion 737 MAX North Line at the Everett factory on July 10, 2026, expanding production capacity from 42 to 47 aircraft monthly during initial phase, reaching 52 by early 2027. The new assembly line hired approximately 1,000 employees and will support regional suppliers and small businesses. While this is major regional aerospace news affecting South King County’s economy and workforce, it’s based in Everett/Snohomish County rather than Burien specifically.
A deadly shooting occurred at a family graduation celebration in Kent on E. Cherry Hill Street when an argument between several people escalated into a physical fight. A 40-year-old suspect shot a 41-year-old man multiple times; the victim was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts. Kent police arrested the suspect at the scene and recovered the weapon. The investigation is ongoing.
The King County Medical Examiner’s Office identified Frank Huy Ho, 33, as the man who died in a July 19 shooting incident in SeaTac near South 192nd Street and 16th Avenue South. Ho died from a gunshot wound to the head, and the manner of death was ruled suicide. The incident prompted a large police response near Sea-Tac Airport and area closure for investigation.
Kitsap Transit will cut Bremerton fast ferry weekday service by 35% starting September 1, dropping from 20 daily round trips to 13, after state supplemental funding ends. The reduction creates a major mid-morning gap with no evening service from Bremerton after 7:05 pm. The cuts follow the state legislature’s decision to step away from fast ferry funding and failure to pass legislation allowing local governments to establish their own passenger ferry districts.
Seattle voters will decide on a transit funding measure this November that includes two amendments proposed by City Councilmember Dan Strauss to improve bus service. Amendment 10 prioritizes faster connections between Ballard, downtown Seattle, and light rail stations, while Amendment 29 requires at least 75% of funding to go toward transit service instead of the proposed 60%. The Seattle City Council unanimously approved sending the measure to the ballot Tuesday.
This regional news digest covers topics across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, including a fusion power plant licensing in Malaga, Washington; Capitol Lake water level work in Olympia as part of estuary restoration; and tire chemical 6PPD’s effects on salmon in the Puget Sound region. Most stories focus on areas outside Burien, though regional environmental and energy issues may have indirect relevance to South King County residents.
A petition is calling on NOAA and U.S. Fish and Wildlife to investigate after a third harbor seal was shot in the head in Washington over the past 11 months. The most recent incident involved a three-week-old seal pup found near Bellingham tide flats and taken in by Sealife Response, Rehabilitation and Research. Advocates say the shootings stem from a misconception that seals deplete salmon populations, though harbor seals primarily eat sole, flounder, and other fish species.
Downtown Bellevue’s office market has declined sharply, with property values dropping $1.61 billion from 2022 to 2025 as vacancy rates surged from 3.3% to 23.2%. The article also reports that Seattle’s office crisis is worse, with the city leading the nation at 37% vacancy and a $15 billion property value loss since 2020—a regional economic trend affecting the broader Puget Sound area where many Burien residents work.
Starting August 1, Seattle’s Department of Transportation will begin work on Denny Way to improve Route 8 bus reliability, including adding a new eastbound business access and transit (BAT) lane from Fifth Avenue N to Fairview Avenue N and permanently closing the slip lane from Denny Way to Yale Avenue for I-5 access. The project, a priority for Mayor Katie Wilson, will wrap up by August 31 and coincide with King County Metro increasing Route 8 frequency from every 15 minutes to every 12 minutes on weekday mornings and afternoons.
Stuart Jenner explores Redondo Beach and Dash Point State Park during July’s exceptionally low tides, showcasing marine life and coastal features visible only at extreme low tide. Redondo features dramatic pier perspectives and wildlife, while Dash Point offers a quarter-mile of exposed sandy beach with eel grass and sand dollars. The article encourages residents to visit during August 10–12’s final low tides of the season.
The Urbanist released its 2026 primary election endorsements covering state and local races across Washington. The organization endorsed candidates for Congress, state legislature, King County positions, Seattle City Council, and Washington Supreme Court, with ballots due by August 4. While some King County races directly affect Burien, this article focuses primarily on Seattle, Puget Sound-area districts, and statewide offices rather than Burien-specific races or candidates.
William Russell-Leonard, 29, pleaded guilty Wednesday to two counts of vehicular homicide, second-degree assault, and possessing a stolen vehicle for driving a car off the Edmonds-Kingston ferry dock in June 2025. The incident, which began with a high-speed pursuit on I-5 near Lynnwood, killed two passengers and injured three others. Sentencing is scheduled for August 11.
JPMorgan Chase is expanding its AI and cybersecurity teams in the Puget Sound region, with Chief Information Officer Lori Beer confirming the investment during a visit to the bank’s Seattle technology center. The company already employs roughly 2,000 people across Washington and 400 at its Seattle location, which occupies 128,000 square feet in downtown Seattle’s JPMorgan Chase Center. While this regional tech growth may indirectly benefit Burien’s job market and economy, the news primarily focuses on Seattle’s downtown office operations and broader corporate strategy.
The Port of Everett announced over $1 billion in planned waterfront investments during its annual report on July 13, 2026. CEO Lisa Lefeber outlined projects including housing development, shipyard modernization, environmental cleanup, and maritime workforce training. While the port serves Snohomish County rather than Burien, these regional economic developments may create jobs and opportunities for South King County residents seeking maritime careers.
The Interstate Bridge Replacement project between Portland and Vancouver received federal environmental approval on July 1, clearing the way for its first funded phase. The $13.5–$15.2 billion bi-state project will replace aging I-5 bridges over the Columbia River, but faces tensions over funding priorities, light rail alignment, tolling impacts on traffic diversion, and lane configuration—with Oregon and Washington officials split on whether the bridge should be larger and whether to prioritize transit or highway expansion.
An opinion piece argues that Seattle’s high-earner taxes—the 2020 JumpStart payroll tax and a 2025 social housing tax—are not causing job losses, citing employment data showing tech and professional services jobs grew 20% in Seattle from 2019 to 2024 while declining slightly in Bellevue. The author counters a Downtown Seattle Association report claiming the taxes harm the economy, attributing downtown retail job losses to national post-pandemic trends rather than tax policy.
Washington State Parks is deciding the future of Blake Island Marine State Park, a historic 472-acre island in central Puget Sound near Seattle. After tour operator Argosy Cruises ended service during the COVID-19 pandemic, visitation plummeted. State planners are considering four options ranging from restoring it to nature to building lodges and cabins. The agency expects to announce a preferred plan by late August or September, following input from around 5,000 public comments.
A new Clark County homelessness report identifies rising housing costs as the leading driver of homelessness, with domestic violence as the second major cause. The report shows people experiencing homelessness due to domestic violence nearly doubled, from around 808 to 1,794. While this regional data affects our broader community, it’s specific to Clark County (Vancouver area) rather than Burien directly.
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma is hosting the We Are Puget Sound traveling photo exhibit through 2028, featuring photography that celebrates the Salish Sea’s ecosystems, Indigenous traditions, and conservation efforts. The exhibit opened June 5 and is free for aquarium visitors, offering an interactive pledge station encouraging community action to protect Puget Sound’s marine life and health.
King County Executive Girmay Zahilay announced a one-year lease with CREATE48 Media Network to operate Harbor Island Studios, the county-owned film facility. While the county moves forward with surplussing the $22 million property to find a buyer, CREATE48 will manage operations and continue supporting the regional film industry. The Burien Film Festival is among CREATE48’s local programs.
Harbor Island Studios, a regional film production facility, has new operators: Kirk Nordenstrom and Kris Flink from the nonprofit CREATE48, announced Tuesday by King County Executive Girmay Zahilay. However, the studio’s future remains uncertain—the county lease ends June 30, 2027, and Solid Waste Division may sell the property at any time. The new operators aim to book major productions and potentially secure a long-term extension.
U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (D-02) launched his reelection campaign on June 16 at Bluewater Distilling in Everett. Larsen, who has served 25 years in Congress, outlined priorities including transportation infrastructure, marine conservation, affordability, healthcare access, and fentanyl enforcement. He has raised $1.6 million through March 2026 and secured endorsements from local and state officials across Northwest Washington counties.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced a public safety plan for Little Saigon and North Beacon Hill focusing on expanded police patrols and community services. The plan emphasizes collaboration between Seattle Police, the LEAD diversion program, funding for a full-time outreach worker in Little Saigon, and officer training on referrals. While this addresses a South Seattle neighborhood, it has limited direct impact on Burien residents unless similar strategies are adopted locally.
MyNorthwest’s 2026 Food Traveler guide celebrates the Northwest’s diverse global cuisine, from Korean and Filipino traditions to fusion dining. The publication highlights international food hot spots throughout the region and features stories on late Vietnamese chef Xinh Dwelley’s legacy in Puget Sound shellfish cooking and similarities between Slovenian and Oregon wine country cuisines. While focused on regional food trends rather than Burien specifically, the guide reflects the multicultural dining scene that defines communities across South King County.
The Georgetown Steam Plant, a historic 1906 coal-powered facility in South Seattle, is being reimagined as a community hub through efforts led by the Georgetown Steam Plant Community Development Authority. The plant, located in the Duwamish Valley near a Superfund site, now hosts arts events, science fairs, and community gatherings while organizers work to establish a permanent access road and expand programming that addresses environmental remediation and climate resilience.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson endorsed progressive challengers Hannah Sabio-Howell and Ron Davis over veteran state lawmakers Jamie Pedersen and Gerry Pollet ahead of Washington’s August 4 primary. Wilson said she rejected the traditional practice of incumbents endorsing fellow incumbents, citing voter frustration with the status quo. The move signals a growing divide within Washington’s Democratic Party, with establishment figures like Governor Bob Ferguson backing Pedersen.
Seattle’s Alki Beach features a 7.5-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty, installed in 1952 by Boy Scouts as part of a national “Strengthen the Arm of Liberty” campaign during the Cold War. The bronze statue, originally copper and restored in 2007, stands at 2665 Alki Ave SW and is roughly a 20–30 minute drive from Burien. The monument commemorates Seattle’s founding at Alki in 1851 and serves as a local symbol of freedom and American values.
Washington Fish and Wildlife opened sockeye salmon fishing on the Skagit River through July 31, marking continued recovery of the Baker River sockeye run. State fisheries officials estimate 70,861 sockeye will return this summer—down slightly from last year’s record 92,000—thanks to decades of co-management efforts by the state, tribes, and Puget Sound Energy. The daily catch limit is four fish with a 12-inch minimum size.
Lynnwood City Council reviewed updates to environmental regulations on June 15 to comply with state requirements. The proposed changes would increase stream buffer setbacks to 100–150 feet, potentially affecting property development. Council members expressed concern that stricter environmental rules could hinder housing goals, though the city is offering exceptions like eliminating parking requirements for smaller properties. A Planning Commission hearing is set for July 1, with a final Council vote scheduled for August 10.
Crime Stoppers is seeking information about the February 1, 2025 killing of 21-year-old Hamze Elmi in Federal Way, which occurred in his yard as he walked home from work. A masked suspect fired seven shots at Elmi, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Though video captured the suspect, investigators need community tips to solve the case. Crime Stoppers offers up to $1,000 anonymously, plus an additional $10,000 from the family—call (800) 222-TIPS.
Washington’s August 4 primary election is two months away, with races affecting the broader Seattle area including U.S. House District 7 (Rep. Pramila Jayapal facing three challengers) and King County Council District 8 (Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda with two opponents). The ballot also includes a proposed Seattle Public Library levy renewal and expansion, plus contested state Supreme Court positions. King County Elections has a full candidate list available online.
Skagit County received a $770,000 state grant to develop clean energy siting regulations and environmental impact analysis, expected to wrap up by May 2027. The county is preparing for inevitable battery storage projects driven by Washington’s 2045 fossil fuel transition deadline. Three public open houses are scheduled for June 9–10 in Anacortes, Mount Vernon, and Concrete to gather community input.
Fort Worden State Historical Park in Port Townsend is a 430-acre historic military site built between 1897-1917 to protect Puget Sound from sea invasion. Once an active base until 1953, it now features preserved bunkers, four museums, Victorian officers’ quarters, Alexander Castle, and scenic trails—about a 2-hour drive from Seattle via Gig Harbor, making it accessible for day trips or weekend visits for history enthusiasts.
A 26-year-old Kent man, Shannon Hartfield, was convicted Tuesday of 17 federal felonies for leading an armed robbery crew across the Puget Sound region from December 2021 to June 2022. Hartfield recruited younger people, including juveniles as young as 14, to rob marijuana dispensaries, credit unions, and banks, providing firearms and getaway vehicles. He faces a mandatory minimum of 45 years in prison, with sentencing scheduled for August 25.
The Port of Everett and Port of South Whidbey are launching Harbor Hopper, a new seasonal passenger ferry service connecting Everett and Langley starting June 4 through August 29. The 45-passenger ferry operates Thursdays and Saturdays with two sailings each direction, offering a car-free travel option between the two communities. Fares range from $10–$12 one-way or $16–$20 roundtrip, with trips lasting 30–45 minutes.
Snohomish County, which includes Edmonds and Lynnwood, ranks as medium risk for radon gas exposure in the Puget Sound area. Counties closest to the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges have the highest radon risk. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that seeps through foundation cracks and can cause lung cancer if inhaled, especially for smokers. Washington State offers a detailed radon map by ZIP code to check risk levels in your area.
Jetty Island Days returns July 8 through September 6, 2026, offering ferry access to Puget Sound’s longest sandy beach near Everett. Roundtrip ferry tickets cost $4-$7 per person and must be reserved online; ferries run five days weekly from Jetty Landing Park. While this regional attraction may appeal to some Burien residents seeking summer outings, it’s based in Everett and doesn’t directly affect our community.
Mukilteo City Council President Jason Moon launched his campaign for Washington’s 21st District House seat on April 26, 2026, at the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center with about 200 supporters. Moon, who lost a primary challenge to incumbent Democrat Strom Peterson in 2024, is running again with a platform focused on housing affordability, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. The 21st District includes Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mukilteo, Everett, and nearby unincorporated areas.
Community Transit and the City of Everett announced this week they’re restarting talks to annex Everett Transit into Community Transit, potentially doubling transit funding and service in Everett. If approved by both the Everett City Council and Community Transit board this fall, the local sales tax for transit would increase from 0.6% to 1.2%, enabling more frequent bus routes and extended evening service. While this affects the broader Puget Sound region, it has minimal direct impact on Burien, which is served by King County Metro.
Everett and Community Transit announced plans to consolidate Everett Transit into Community Transit’s regional network, with an interlocal agreement expected before both the Everett City Council and Community Transit Board this fall. The consolidation aims to improve connections to light rail service in Lynnwood, increase bus frequency, and reduce transfers for riders across Snohomish County.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson announced plans to speed up Route 8 service on Denny Way with a new half-mile eastbound bus lane and permanent I-5 ramp reroute, set to take effect in August 2026. The changes include closing a slip lane at Stewart Street and redirecting southbound I-5 traffic through Boren and Howell Avenues. Route 8 frequency will also increase from every 15 minutes to every 12 minutes starting August 29, funded by the 2020 Seattle Transit Measure.
Tacoma’s city council unanimously approved a $200 million street safety levy for the August ballot, down from a failed $400+ million proposal last year. The “Connect Tacoma” measure would fund safer streets, sidewalks, and pedestrian infrastructure over 10 years through property taxes ($0.20 per $1,000 assessed value) and a 1.5% utility tax, leveraging an additional $120 million in grants and partnerships. This is regional news with limited direct impact on Burien.
Lynnwood officials broke ground April 8, 2026, on a $58 million Poplar Way Bridge that will span Interstate 5 and connect Poplar Way/196th Street Southwest with Alderwood Mall Boulevard/33rd Avenue West. The six-lane bridge is expected to handle 30,000 vehicles daily and include a protected pedestrian and bicycle path. Construction is set for completion in 2028, with road closures beginning soon and I-5 nighttime closures expected in 2027.
Mercer Island’s city council unanimously voted to advance zoning changes to comply with state housing requirements, following a state board ruling last August that found the city’s growth plan noncompliant. The plan proposes upzoning the Town Center to eight stories and reducing affordable housing mandates from 15% to 10% of units, with a July 31 deadline for compliance. This regional story illustrates state pressure on affluent communities to accommodate more housing, but Mercer Island is not in South King County and does not directly affect Burien.
Kirkland police arrested a suspect in a months-long investigation into organized retail theft across the Puget Sound region, with an estimated $500,000 in stolen merchandise. While this regional crime case doesn’t directly involve Burien, the organized retail theft trend may affect local retailers and shoppers throughout South King County.
Researchers at the University of Washington are studying a floating wetland project at Shilshole Bay Marina in Seattle to restore salmon habitat in saltwater. Installed since 2022, the system of 10 connected floating units with native vegetation and eelgrass is showing early promise, with more juvenile salmon observed near the wetlands than at control sites. While the project is in Seattle, it represents regional innovation in habitat restoration that may benefit South King County salmon populations.
A 60-year-old man died Tuesday morning after his kayak sank in Puget Sound near Dash Point Park in Pierce County, according to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office. While this tragic incident occurred in the broader Puget Sound region, it happened outside Burien and did not directly involve local residents or services.
Seattle’s Department of Transportation offers transit tips for getting to games at Seattle’s Stadium District without dealing with traffic and parking hassles. The blog recommends using Sound Transit’s Sounder Train for fans traveling from as far north as Everett and as far south as Lakewood, and suggests arriving early to explore nearby neighborhoods like Chinatown International District or Pioneer Square.
The Asian Service Center hosts its 3rd annual Dragon Boat Festival on July 31 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Edmonds Waterfront Center. The free community event features dragon boat rides ($15), a race between South County Fire and local officials, cultural performances, food, and a documentary screening celebrating the centuries-old Chinese tradition.
The Seattle Aquarium deployed a remotely operated robot to explore kelp forests in Puget Sound. While the aquarium is a regional destination that some Burien residents visit, this story focuses on Seattle-based research and doesn’t directly affect local Burien communities, schools, or policies.
The Three Tree Point Summer Makers Market returns Saturday, August 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 3713 SW 171st Street. Now in its eighth year, this free community event showcases local artists and handcrafted goods in a scenic neighborhood setting. Organizers promise rosé will be available all day, making it a relaxed summer outing for shoppers supporting local creativity.
Chrissy Shimizu was hired as executive director of the Wing Luke Museum in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District in May 2026, following a national search. Shimizu, who previously worked at the museum from 2017-2021, brings experience in community organizing and fundraising. She begins as the museum approaches its 60-year anniversary and prepares to open the Eng Family Homestead as a permanent exhibit in August.
The annual Tribal Canoe Journey, hosted this year by the Nisqually Tribe, will make a stop at Alki Beach on July 29th in the afternoon. Approximately 110-120 canoes from dozens of American and Canadian tribes are expected to arrive between 1-3 pm as part of the “Paddle to Nisqually Medicine Creek Potlatch.” The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe will welcome the canoes and provide overnight camping and meals. Public parking with shuttle service from Harbor Avenue will be available to manage traffic.
Seattle is launching Golden Gardens Direct, a new summer transit service to the Golden Gardens beach area, funded through the Seattle Transit Measure. King County Metro and the City of Seattle are offering this pilot service during peak beach season. While this is regional transit news, it primarily serves Seattle residents rather than Burien communities.
King County Metro and Seattle are launching Golden Gardens Direct, a seasonal pilot bus service running June 27 through August 30. The shuttle will connect Ballard’s Market Street corridor to Golden Gardens Park every 30 minutes from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with fares at $3 for adults, free for youth under 18, and $1 for reduced-fare riders. The service aims to reduce summer traffic and parking demand at the popular waterfront park.
Black Diamond is marking 146 years of fire services and faces a critical decision on August 4, 2026, about annexing into the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority. If approved, the regional authority would take over fire and emergency services on January 1, 2028, funded through property tax and benefit charges. The city currently contracts with Mountain View Fire and Rescue, but that agreement expires at the end of 2027.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife issued an emergency closure on June 2 for salmon, steelhead, and game fish in the Snohomish Basin (which includes the Snohomish, Skykomish, and Snoqualmie rivers) to protect wild chinook salmon. Fewer than 3,500 wild chinook are forecasted to return to the basin in 2026, prompting the closure of key fishing areas including the mainstem Skykomish and Snoqualmie River below Snoqualmie Falls through summer and fall 2026.
Beach fire season at Alki Beach officially begins Friday, May 22, 2026, running through September 7. Seattle Parks permits fires in designated pits on a first-come, first-served basis seven days a week, with fires required to be extinguished by 10 p.m. Only clean, dry firewood is allowed in installed fire containers; no personal fire pits or propane rings permitted. Alki is in West Seattle, a neighboring community to Burien.
My Lynnwood News publishes a weekly family fun guide for South Snohomish County, including Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, and Lynnwood. The July 27-Aug. 2 edition features free concerts, outdoor movies, farmers markets, and community resources across the region. While the guide covers nearby cities, it’s not specific to Burien and focuses on events north of our area.
Mercer Island’s City Council voted unanimously on July 21 to update zoning and housing rules to comply with state law before a July 31 deadline. The changes include allowing emergency shelters and supportive housing across more neighborhoods under House Bill 2266, increasing building heights in the Town Center to six to eight stories, and reducing affordability requirements from 15% to 10%. A state hearings board will review compliance on September 15.
This news roundup covers national and regional stories with limited direct relevance to Burien. Notable items include a fatal police shooting in Madison, Wisconsin; Amazon layoffs from its AI team; Seattle-area job market shifts away from tech toward trucking and security roles; a national cyclosporiasis outbreak; and a woman rescued from Puget Sound near Edmonds. Most stories affect the broader region or nation, though the Seattle job market trend may indirectly touch King County residents.
Bellevue City Council unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on detention centers on June 9, effective immediately as emergency legislation. The freeze blocks new detention center applications while the city develops permanent zoning rules. A public hearing is scheduled for July 28 to allow resident input, as required by state law.
A Seattle developer is converting 23,000 square feet of office space in Ballard’s Commons building into 23 apartments through the city’s Office-to-Residential Conversion Program. The former Gravity Payments headquarters at 5621 22nd Ave. NW is undergoing permitting, with construction expected to begin this summer. While this regional housing project reflects broader trends affecting South King County, it’s located in Seattle and doesn’t directly impact Burien residents.
Issaquah’s City Council approved an ordinance on June 29 relaxing building design requirements like stepbacks and outdoor amenity spaces to encourage housing development. Two councilmembers voted against it, wanting bolder options before the city considers architectural design standards this fall. The changes are part of a broader 17-item housing reform workplan led by Mayor Mark Mullet, though Issaquah is a neighboring city and not directly part of Burien.
The Stranger’s summer drinking guide features bars and patios across Seattle, including two spots in Beacon Hill (Perihelion Brewery and Clock-Out Lounge) and one in West Seattle (Marination and Three 9 Lounge). While a handful of recommendations touch neighborhoods near Burien, this is primarily a Seattle-focused entertainment guide without direct relevance to Burien residents or businesses.
The International Examiner’s July 2026 arts calendar features hundreds of visual arts exhibitions, performing arts events, and literary programs across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. While most events are in Seattle, Tacoma, and Portland, the calendar includes a few South King County venues like the Pacific Bonsai Museum in Federal Way. Burien residents interested in arts and culture can access many of these regional opportunities, though the calendar contains no events specifically in Burien itself.
Northwest Travel & Life’s 2026 Food Traveler edition celebrates the Pacific Northwest’s diverse culinary scene, featuring stories about international cuisines, fusion dining, and regional food festivals. While the feature mentions Puget Sound communities and highlights late Vietnamese chef Xinh Dwelley’s legacy with shellfish recipes, it’s a regional travel publication focused on broader Northwest dining trends rather than Burien-specific food culture or events.
The Stranger published its 2026 primary election endorsements, a guide to candidates in federal, state, county, and local races across Washington. The endorsements include U.S. Representatives, state legislators, judges, and Seattle city candidates, with voting deadline August 4. Ballots go out before then—check deadlines for your area.
Marysville Mayor Jon Nehring was elected president of the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) during the organization’s annual conference June 23-26 in Spokane. Nehring, who has served on the AWC Board since 2013 and as Marysville mayor since 2010, will lead the 25-member Board of Directors representing Washington’s cities and towns.
Tacoma’s city government approved $6.4 million in cultural funding for 80 arts, heritage, and science organizations in the 2026-2027 fiscal year through Tacoma Creates, the state’s first cultural access program. The funding supports events and programming from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, sustaining organizations that serve all ages across Tacoma’s cultural sector.
Metro launched a new summer-only bus route called Golden Gardens Direct on June 27, connecting Ballard to Golden Gardens Park with service running daily 11 am to 9 pm through August 30. The shuttle costs $3 per ride (free for youth 18 and under) and runs every 30 minutes from 15th and Market Street in Ballard, funded by $300,000 in Seattle Transit Measure money. While this serves the broader King County region, it’s specific to Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood and Golden Gardens Park.
The Snohomish County Sports Hall of Fame announced its 2026 Induction Class, the 16th class, featuring five athletes, one coach, one sports contributor, and one team. Inductees include volleyball player Megan Amundson, baseball player Mitch Canham, football player Erik Norgard, track and field athlete Mary Parker Etter, basketball player Sidney Rielly, football coach Mike Price, rowing contributor Bob Cummins, and the Archbishop Murphy High School boys soccer team (2015-2017). The induction banquet takes place September 23, 2026, at Angel Of The Winds Arena.
Luxury brand Nobu is coming to downtown Bellevue, rebranding Avenue Bellevue’s residential towers as Nobu Residences and opening a 10,000-square-foot restaurant by 2027—the brand’s first Pacific Northwest location. While this is significant regional news, it primarily affects Bellevue residents and visitors rather than Burien directly.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson kicked off the 2026 Bicycle Weekend season on Lake Washington Boulevard with around 300 cyclists on Saturday, May 24. This year’s expanded schedule runs every weekend from Memorial Day to Labor Day (except Seafair weekend July 31–August 2), with extended Friday and Sunday evening hours. A 2022 public survey showed 62% of Seattle residents supported expansion. The event drew both supporters and dozens of protesters organized by the pro-driving group Coexist Lake Washington.
SeaTac is promoting its ‘World Table District,’ featuring over thirty international restaurants and markets including Boulevard Market, Pizza Station, and Mall of Africa along International Boulevard. While SeaTac is a neighboring city, this article focuses on SeaTac’s dining scene and has limited direct relevance to Burien residents unless you’re seeking regional dining destinations nearby.
PCC Community Markets, a Seattle-based community-owned grocery chain, is opening its 17th location in Madison Valley this fall after a decade-long planning process. While PCC already operates a store in Burien, this new Seattle expansion doesn’t directly affect our community, though it reflects the grocer’s regional growth across the Puget Sound area.
WSDOT has started a two-phase paving project on SR 525 (Mukilteo Speedway), the first time the road has been paved since 2004. Phase one covers two miles from I-5 in Lynnwood to SR 99 and should finish by fall; phase two will pave the section near Mukilteo later this year. Expect directional closures and nighttime work, especially near the ferry dock, to minimize disruptions.
Weekly Volcano’s July 24 newsletter covers events, governance, and opportunities primarily in Tacoma and Pierce County. Highlights include Tacoma’s August 4 vote on Connect Tacoma Proposition 1 (street repairs and sidewalks), Deputy Mayor Joe Bushnell’s proposed $20 minimum wage ordinance, and the Port of Tacoma’s $250 million cold storage deal with Saxum. The newsletter also lists community events like the I Respect Black Festival at Wright Park and various arts, recreation, and grant opportunities across the region.
Issaquah became the first Washington city to adopt a self-certification program for backyard cottage permits, allowing licensed architects to approve their own detached accessory dwelling unit plans without city review. The unanimous council vote implements state legislation (HB 1353) intended to speed up housing production, with Issaquah’s building department auditing at least 20% of submitted plans annually to ensure quality.
This regional news roundup covers environmental and wildlife topics across the Salish Sea area, including tidegate repair disputes in Skagit County, water supply forecasts for Washington’s Columbia Basin, kelp forest monitoring in Puget Sound near Tacoma, and a rare tufted puffin sighting near Olympia. While these stories affect the broader Puget Sound region, none directly involve Burien or directly impact local residents.
A legal battle over tidegate repairs in Skagit County has stalled infrastructure maintenance for five years, affecting about 60,000 acres of farmland. A culvert collapse in 2019 damaged the No Name Slough tidegate complex near Burlington, but permitting disputes between drainage districts and the Swinomish tribe over salmon habitat mitigation have blocked repairs, leaving nearby farms like Owen Peth’s vulnerable to water damage.
Kent’s East Pioneer Street will have its south lane closed weekdays from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. through mid-August for a Sound Transit Sounder parking garage project. While this is regional transit infrastructure news, it primarily affects Kent drivers rather than Burien residents directly.
Cascadia Daily News published a guide to whitewater rafting on the Skagit, Sauk, and Nooksack rivers in Whatcom and Skagit counties. The article covers river difficulty levels, best seasons to visit, scenic views, safety hazards including cold shock and wood obstacles, and recommends certified outfitters like Alpine Adventures and Triad River Tours. While a recreational resource for regional visitors, this article has limited direct relevance to Burien residents unless planning day trips north.
Black Diamond voters will decide on August 4 whether the city should annex its fire services into the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority. While this is a regional governance matter, it does not directly affect Burien residents or services. More details are available on Black Diamond’s city website.
Voice of the Valley shares the history of Black Diamond’s library, tracing its journey from a room in the Pacific Coast Coal Hotel in 1916 through multiple relocations as the mining town evolved. The library eventually became part of King County Library System in 1990 and moved to a new 5,000-square-foot facility on Roberts Drive, which opened in May 2008.
The Puget Sound Senior Baseball League celebrated a historic milestone on July 19 when umpires Stephanie Capelli and Regina Boyd became the first all-female officiating crew in the league’s history, working a game at Mountlake Terrace High School between the RiverCats and Knights (Age 45 & over division). The RiverCats won 8-6 despite a ninth-inning Knights rally. Boyd is a U.S. Armed Forces veteran; Capelli recently graduated from the Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School in Florida.
An opinion piece argues that Bellevue should prioritize pedestrian and bike infrastructure around its new light rail stations, particularly protected bike lanes on 156th Avenue connecting to Overlake Village station. The SAFE Bellevue coalition is urging the city council to fund these projects during its budget process, citing 41 street deaths in 2025 and noting that protected bike lanes reduce collisions for all road users.
The City of University Place is promoting environmental stewardship for Puget Sound through activities like boating, fishing, and shoreline recreation. The campaign encourages residents to take small actions to protect the waterway. While Burien residents may visit Puget Sound, this initiative is specific to University Place and has limited direct impact on our community.
A Capitol Hill Seattle blog post features five drought-tolerant plants suitable for water-wise gardening in the Seattle area, including hotlipped sage, blueblossom ceanothus, kinnikinnick, Idaho fescue, and pearly everlasting. The article addresses the Washington Department of Ecology’s statewide drought emergency declared in April and encourages residents across the region to reduce landscape irrigation use.
Schnitzer West is acquiring The Bravern, a 750,000-square-foot office complex in downtown Bellevue, after Microsoft vacated the property last year. The deal, expected to close in fall 2026, addresses a $304 million mortgage default and aims to reposition the towers for new tenants. While this is regional commercial real estate news, it has minimal direct impact on Burien residents or local affairs.
Puget Sound Fire and the Puget Sound Firefighters Foundation are running a back-to-school supply drive throughout August. While the organization is based in nearby Kent, this news has limited direct connection to Burien unless residents plan to participate or donate.
A Mediterranean villa in nearby Gig Harbor is listed for $5.795 million, featuring 1.21 acres, three bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a guest house. The listing highlights broader regional trends: real estate agents report more high-end inventory available in 2026 and longer sales timelines, with Washington’s millionaires’ tax influencing conversations among luxury home buyers across the region.
GoodMart, a new seafood-focused restaurant from Local Tide owner Victor Steinbrueck, is opening in late August at 5130 Ballard Ave. NW in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood. The concept will occupy the former Kathy Casey Food Studios space and feature sustainably sourced Pacific Northwest seafood with influences from Steinbrueck’s Chinese, Filipino, and German heritage.
Ken Klein, the newly hired City Administrator of Snohomish, earned the ICMA Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association. Klein previously served as an Executive Director in the Snohomish County Executive’s Office overseeing nine departments with a $650 million budget. The credential recognizes senior local government leaders who demonstrate integrity, professional excellence, and commitment to ongoing learning.
Kaiser Permanente is reclassifying its Capitol Hill Medical Center’s walk-in urgent care as emergency department visits starting September 17, which will result in higher copays and facility fees for patients. The change is part of a national trend where hospital systems bill outpatient clinics as hospital-based departments to charge premium rates, affecting low-income patients who rely on Medicaid-accepting clinics.
The Economic Alliance Snohomish County announced a board leadership change: Dr. Paul Pitre is stepping down as chair to return to teaching at Washington State University, and Robert Knoll of Puget Sound Energy will take over as board chair. Mark Duffy of Mountain Pacific Bank becomes vice chair. While EASC operates in the broader region, this organizational leadership transition has minimal direct impact on Burien residents.
Economic Alliance Snohomism County announced leadership changes on Tuesday, with Paul Pitre stepping down as board chair to return to teaching at Washington State University’s Pullman campus. Robert Knoll from Puget Sound Energy takes over as chair, while Mark Duffy of Mountain Pacific Bank becomes vice chair. While this regional economic organization affects the broader South King County area, the news focuses on Snohomish County leadership and doesn’t directly involve Burien.
French bakery Petit Pierre plans to open a third Seattle location in Ballard at 2200 NW Market Street, in the former Starbucks space that closed in September 2025. Co-owner Joanna Chau told My Ballard the bakery is in early planning stages and hopes to open in early 2027, expanding their menu to include breads like sourdough and baguettes. The award-winning bakery already operates locations in Magnolia and Phinney Ridge.
The Bellevue Conflict Resolution Center and Small Business Consultants have expanded services to Mini City Hall, offering in-person conflict mediation on Wednesdays (noon–2 p.m.) and free business consulting (10 a.m.–noon Wednesdays). While Mini City Hall serves the broader Eastside region including South King County communities, this article focuses on Bellevue city programs and does not mention Burien specifically.
Lindsey Baum, a 10-year-old from McCleary in Grays Harbor County, disappeared in 2009 and remains missing 17 years later. Her remains were identified nearly nine years after her disappearance, found 120 miles away. Investigators have cultivated several persons of interest but made no arrests. Lindsey’s mother, Melissa Baum, continues to seek answers and justice, urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 802-222-TIPS.
The San Juan Preservation Trust is repairing a deteriorating breakwater on Vendovi Island, located ten miles into Bellingham Bay, to protect public access and restore habitat for pigeon guillemots. The one-month restoration begins in September and will reinforce the wall with larger boulders and filter cloth to prevent future erosion. The guillemot population has declined from 50 birds in 2010 to just four, and researchers from the University of Washington are monitoring how the birds respond to the repairs using autonomous recording units and direct counts.
The University of Washington’s ArtSci Roundup highlights summer 2026 programs including museum exhibitions, lectures, and performances available both on campus in Seattle and online. Events feature new shows at the Henry Art Gallery and Burke Museum, workshops on native plants and natural dyes, and recorded lectures on topics from physics to labor studies. Most programming is Seattle-based; remote access is available through podcasts, videos, and recorded performances.
Clyde Hill, a small Eastside city of 3,000 between Medina and Bellevue, is proposing a 69% property tax increase to address budget deficits that have drained reserves over five of the last seven years. The city council advanced plans for the levy in a special meeting, with final approval expected July 14. If approved, November voters will decide whether to raise the tax rate to $0.50 per $1,000 of assessed value—the city’s largest tax increase in decades—to avoid potential merger with a neighboring jurisdiction.
Spokane County voters will decide on STA Proposition 1, a 0.2% sales tax renewal for Spokane Transit Authority on the August 4th ballot. The measure is not a tax increase but funds the next 20 years of transit service and an $80 million Division Street bus rapid transit project. Since 2016, Spokane Transit has increased bus service 35%, made transit free for riders under 19, and achieved the state’s lowest cost per passenger while providing the second-highest fixed route ridership behind King County Metro.
Oregon-based Dutch Bros coffee chain is opening its first Seattle location in the fourth quarter of 2026 at a former Starbucks in SoDo (4115 Fourth Avenue S.), not in Burien. The 1,800-square-foot space will undergo remodeling including plumbing, electrical, and mechanical upgrades before opening. Dutch Bros already operates stores in nearby Renton, Fife, and other Puget Sound communities.
Aluel Cellars, a Capitol Hill winery tasting room, is closing after 10 years due to public safety concerns, rising costs, and declining foot traffic. The owners cited increased crime and drug use in the neighborhood since 2021. The final day is August 16, with the owners now focusing on their Ballard and Queen Anne locations.
Community Transit’s Zip Shuttle microtransit service is expanding beyond Lynnwood to Arlington, Darrington, and Lake Stevens, with local officials in Edmonds and Mountlake Terrace pushing for service in their communities. The ride-hailing style service, which costs $2.50 per trip, has proven popular since launching in Alderwood in October 2022, but Community Transit is focusing on the four existing areas before expanding elsewhere.
SeaTac’s World Table District features three independent coffee and beverage stands worth visiting: Kappa Espresso (Ethiopian coffee and East African-inspired food, opened 2019), Latino Cafe (horchata lattes and milkshakes), and Five Star Espresso (Somali coffee, tea, and sambusas). While SeaTac is a neighboring city, this article focuses on SeaTac businesses and dining rather than directly affecting Burien residents.
Tacoma released its 2026 Community Survey in March and April, finding resident satisfaction improved in 68 of 80 city service areas over two years. The survey of 902 residents highlighted gains in fire services (83% satisfaction), library services (up 9%), and police response times (up 7%), while identifying priorities like street conditions, code enforcement, and cost of living as areas needing more resources.
Capitol Hill’s AIDS Memorial Pathway, located above Capitol Hill Station and spanning into Cal Anderson Park, comprises four art installations honoring those lost to AIDS. Proposed by Seattle City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen in 2015 and debuted in 2021, the pathway is stewarded by Seattle’s LGBTQ+ Center with help from volunteers and Parks and Recreation. The center is launching a youth HIV awareness campaign and starting a “Pathway Conversations” discussion series this fall.
Weekly Volcano profiles musician Bradford King, known for looping guitar performances and immersive original music. The Navy brat and former busker now performs regularly at Sea-Tac Airport and throughout the Pacific Northwest, managing sound for Gigs4U and running Polybanderous Productions. His next local show is August 5 at The Sandbar in Tacoma.
My Lynnwood News covers multiple arts events across the Edmonds and Lynnwood area, including a soccer ball art exhibition at Lynnwood Rec Center benefiting the Lynnwood Food Bank (through July 19, free admission), the Edmonds Arts Festival (June 19-21), Ballinger Shakespeare Company’s outdoor production of Twelfth Night (July 9-19 at Mathay-Ballinger Park, free), and PorchFest Edmonds (July 12, free). While these events are in nearby communities, they fall outside Burien’s immediate area and would have limited relevance to most Burien residents.
Tacoma’s 2026 summer festival season is undergoing significant changes, with Mosaic: Tacoma’s Arts and Cultural Festival canceled due to budget constraints. Major events include Summer Blast on July 4 at Ruston Way, Tacoma Pride Festival in July at Wright Park, and milestone celebrations like Art on the Ave’s 25th anniversary and Proctor Arts Fest’s 30th anniversary in August. While Burien residents may attend some of these Tacoma events, the article focuses on Tacoma’s local festival landscape and doesn’t directly affect Burien communities.
Cascadia Daily News profiles Port Townsend, a historic Victorian seaport on the Olympic Peninsula about 2 hours and 16 minutes from Bellingham via ferry. The town of 10,650 features 700 preserved historic residences, a thriving arts scene, maritime culture, and attractions like the Wooden Boat Festival, charming shops, breweries, and restaurants. The guide highlights activities on Water Street and uptown neighborhoods for visitors interested in architecture, local galleries, and coastal scenery.
My Lynnwood News covers arts events happening in Edmonds, including a new stegosaurus mural by artist Andrew Miller, the Edmonds Driftwood Players’ 15th Annual Festival of Shorts running June 25–28, Art Walk Edmonds monthly gallery strolls, and a Find Waldo Local scavenger hunt in July. While these are vibrant community events, they take place in Edmonds rather than Burien and have limited direct relevance to South King County residents.
MyNorthwest highlights four restaurants in Ballard—Un Bien (Caribbean), La Marea Marisquería (Mexican), S/T Hooligans (Cajun), and CrackleMi Vietnamese Grill—as must-try dining destinations in the Seattle neighborhood. While Ballard is geographically close to Burien, this article focuses specifically on another city’s dining scene and doesn’t mention Burien or its residents.
A real estate guide explores living on Fox Island, Washington, located in Pierce County about 30 minutes west of Tacoma. The article covers home prices (interior homes starting around $700k, waterfront from $1.5 million+), commute times, waterfront terminology, and community activities like the Fox Island Yacht Club and local dining spots. Fox Island has about 3,000 residents and is served by the Peninsula School District.
Eater Seattle published a comprehensive dining guide covering the city’s food scene, from seafood and Asian cuisines to Filipino restaurants and bakeries. The guide highlights notable spots like The Wayland Mill (named Best All-Day Cafe in 2025), neighborhood dining recommendations across Capitol Hill, Ballard, and the International District, and local food traditions including teriyaki and Seattle dogs. While this resource may interest Burien residents exploring Seattle dining options, it focuses entirely on Seattle neighborhoods and doesn’t mention Burien specifically.
A neighborhood guide from Move to Tacoma features downtown Sumner, a small Pierce County city about 25 minutes southeast of Tacoma. The article covers Sumner’s local businesses, parks, schools, commute options (including Sounder train access to Seattle), median home prices around $540,000, and community events like the Daffodil Parade and Homecoming Parade. While Sumner is a neighboring city in the same county as Burien, this content is primarily aimed at people considering moving to Sumner and doesn’t directly affect Burien residents.
Black Diamond’s city council unanimously approved moving a fire service annexation measure to voters on August 4, 2026. If approved by a simple majority, the city would join the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority starting January 1, 2028, replacing its current contract with Mountain View Fire and Rescue. The move would staff the recently completed Lawson Hills Fire Station.
Jetty Island Ferry reservations are now open for summer day trips running July 8 through September 6 at the Port of Everett. The seasonal foot ferry departs from Jetty Landing to reach Puget Sound’s longest sandy beach. While this regional attraction may interest some South King County residents seeking nearby recreation, it’s primarily an Everett-area resource.
Black Diamond’s city council unanimously approved moving a fire service annexation measure to voters on August 4, 2026. If approved, the city would join the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority starting January 1, 2028, replacing its current contract with Mountain View Fire and Rescue. The change aims to improve emergency response as the region grows.
Solette, a new 225-seat rooftop restaurant, is opening this summer at the Level Hotel in Seattle’s South Lake Union neighborhood. The 6,500-square-foot space on the 13th floor will offer upscale-casual American dining with views of the Space Needle and Puget Sound, led by Executive Chef Pierre Tumlin. While this Seattle development is regional dining news, it’s located outside Burien and unlikely to directly affect local residents.
A Move to Tacoma guide explores what daily life is like in Tacoma’s Eastside neighborhood, featuring interviews with longtime residents and details about affordability, commute times, schools, and community features. The median home price on the Eastside is $430,000, lower than Tacoma’s $500,000 median, and the area offers quick access to I-5, Highway 512, and Tacoma Dome Station. The neighborhood is known for strong community ties, diverse immigrant-owned businesses, and parks like Swan Creek.
The Tacoma Ledger recommends outdoor spring activities for students across Washington state, highlighting parks and trails in Tacoma, Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge ($3 daily entrance fee). While these destinations are accessible to Burien residents, this article focuses on Tacoma-area recommendations and statewide outdoor opportunities rather than local Burien events or resources.
A real estate guide explores what it’s like living in Browns Point, a waterfront neighborhood in Northeast Tacoma near Federal Way. The article covers home prices (averaging $700,000, with waterfront views starting around $1 million), commute times (15 minutes to downtown Tacoma, 35-45 minutes to Seattle), and neighborhood amenities like Dash Point Park and the Center at Norpoint.
Weekly Volcano’s July 17 newsletter covers regional Tacoma-area news including a fraudulent locksmith scam warning, the Tacoma Bon Odori Festival on August 1, and the reopening of Point Defiance’s Loop Trail. While most coverage focuses on Tacoma, some items like Pierce County election information and the Washington State Fair may interest Burien residents in the broader South King County area.
Tableau, a Salesforce-owned software company, renewed its lease at the Data 1 building in Fremont (744 N. 34th St.) for approximately 114,000 square feet through the next decade, beginning in 2029. This news reflects broader office consolidation trends in the Seattle area but has minimal direct impact on Burien residents.
Go Greek Yogurt, a California-based chain, will open its first Washington location this winter at 2130 7th Avenue in downtown Seattle near the Amazon Spheres, replacing Sub Pop Records. The yogurt bar and cafe specializes in authentic Greek yogurt and frozen yogurt options. While this is Seattle news, it has minimal direct impact on Burien residents.
Skagit County expanded its stormwater management jurisdiction by roughly 8,000 acres (a 62% increase) effective Wednesday, the first expansion since 2007. The move gives the county authority to upgrade infrastructure and reduce runoff in developing areas, with plans for green infrastructure like rain gardens and permeable pavements over the next 30-40 years.
A local hiking guide for Bellingham highlights beginner-friendly trails including Whatcom Falls Park, Boulevard Park, Lake Padden Loop, and Fragrance Lake Trail, with tips on what to bring, best seasons to visit, and local trail etiquette. While Bellingham is about 90 miles north of Burien, this content is specific to that city’s trails and outdoor recreation and has no direct connection to South King County.
A Tacoma-based real estate blog compiled a directory of schools and universities across Pierce County, including public districts, private schools, and religious institutions. The guide emphasizes that school choice depends on individual family needs and recommends touring schools and consulting with parents and teachers rather than relying solely on rating websites. While the article mentions Tacoma Public Schools and University Place School District—which serve some Burien students—it’s primarily a Tacoma-focused resource not specific to Burien.
Two drivers were arrested early Sunday, March 22, after a Burien Police deputy observed them racing at 85 mph on 1st Avenue South, more than double the posted speed limit. The incident resulted in arrests for both drivers involved in the illegal street racing.
Mayor Katie Wilson has paused Seattle’s police surveillance camera expansion pending a data security audit by New York University’s Policing Project, while keeping 62 existing cameras operational except one overlooking a reproductive and gender-affirming health care facility. All automated license plate readers will be immediately turned off until made compliant with new state law, though 26 new cameras will be installed in the Stadium District for World Cup games this summer and remain off unless a “credible threat” is declared. Wilson expects the audit to be completed within months, potentially by June 15 when Seattle’s first World Cup game occurs.
B-Town Blog has published its fifth annual Spring Worship Guide, noting that Sunday, March 29, 2026 marks Palm Sunday, which begins “Holy Week” observed by most Christian denominations according to the Christian Liturgical calendar.
Dry Spell Bottle Shop has opened a storefront along SW 152nd Street in Downtown Burien, offering non-alcoholic beverage options marketed as flavorful and adult-oriented alternatives. The shop provides customers with a selection of sophisticated non-alcoholic drinks in a compact retail space.
Several civic and school meetings are scheduled in the Highline area for March 23-27. The Burien City Council will meet Monday, March 23 at 5:30 pm to discuss 2025-26 biennial budget revisions and advisory board appointments. The Highline School Board will hold a retreat Wednesday, March 25 at 4:45 pm at Puget Sound Skills Center, and the Burien Planning Commission will meet the same day at 7:00 pm to review Title 17 Subdivision Overhaul discretionary topics.
A suspected DUI crash involving five vehicles injured five people early Monday, March 23, on northbound I-5 just south of South 178th Street in SeaTac. The incident resulted in a fiery collision that was investigated by authorities.
Sound Transit’s board retreat revealed that all three proposed approaches to address a $34.5 billion funding shortfall would defer light rail stations in Ballard and Interbay, with the line potentially truncating at Seattle Center or Smith Cove instead of reaching Market Street. The board is expected to vote on program recalibration in May, with board members emphasizing the importance of advancing the “shovel-ready” West Seattle Link project, which has been reduced in cost to approximately $5 billion through design refinements. A setback occurred when the Washington State Legislature declined to authorize Sound Transit to issue 75-year bonds, a policy change that would have provided an estimated $4 billion benefit to address the agency’s expected financial crunch in the 2030s.
A 60-year-old Carnation man was killed on Saturday night, March 21, when his vehicle left the roadway and plunged into the Duwamish River in Tukwila, according to the Washington State Patrol. The incident occurred in the Tukwila area near Burien.
Interurban Avenue South in Tukwila has fully reopened following a landslide that forced a temporary closure of the roadway late Friday night. The road was closed through Saturday afternoon due to the slide event.
King County District Court is warning residents about fraudulent court hearing notices being distributed via text message and email that appear to be official communications but are not legitimate.
Public Health – Seattle & King County has reported a confirmed measles case involving a traveler who passed through Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Monday, March 9, potentially exposing other travelers. Health officials are urging residents to verify their vaccination status in response to the exposure incident.
After Washington House Bill 2489, a statewide camping restrictions bill sponsored by State Rep. Mia Gregerson, failed to advance in the legislature, Burien now must decide locally whether to maintain its camping ban adopted two years ago. The ban has cleared dozens of tents from parks and sidewalks, but the current city council majority, including Mayor Sarah Moore, campaigned on reversing it. The decision returns to Burien’s city council, as federal rulings like Martin v. City of Boise—not new state law—now govern camping enforcement.
At the March 18, 2026 Highline School Board meeting, parent and volunteer Kirsten Cooper opposed the proposed relocation of Cascade Middle School to the Salmon Creek site, citing that 81% of respondents in a community survey opposed the move. Cooper argued that relocating approximately 650 to 700 students from a 41-acre campus to a 6.6-acre site would reduce access to athletic fields and learning spaces, while destroying the 1.6-acre Shark Garden, which serves 76 families and produces over 1,000 pounds of food annually for the White Center Food Bank.
The Burien City Council will meet on Monday, March 23, to consider a revised biennial budget, financial policy changes, and multiple board and commission appointments. The source provides limited detail about specific agenda items beyond these categories.
Brian Heywood of Let’s Go Washington raised concerns on March 15, 2026, about SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment) surveys administered in schools, including Highline School District, which collect sensitive personal information from students. The article notes that Initiative 2081, passed in 2024 to strengthen parental notification and consent requirements, was reversed by HB 1296 in 2025. Heywood encouraged parents to question their districts about these survey practices and data collection methods.
The Highline Journal is launching a monthly Community Conversation Series to bring neighbors together to discuss challenging topics affecting the region, beginning with homelessness on Tuesday, March 31st from 6:30-7:30pm. The inaugural event will feature Kristine Moreland of The More We Love Women and Children Shelter as a special guest, and will be moderated by Melissa Petrini, a local community leader and former school board director. Participants must agree to Rules of Engagement to facilitate respectful dialogue.
Dale Chihuly, a renowned glass artist born in Tacoma, has multiple installations throughout the city including at the Tacoma Art Museum, Federal Courthouse, Museum of Glass, and the free pedestrian Bridge of Glass over Highway 705. The Washington State History Museum, opened nearly 30 years ago near these sites, features exhibits on Native American history, Japanese-American internment, Southeast Asian immigration, and displays on Washington entrepreneurs including Starbucks, Microsoft, and Nintendo.
Burien and South King County residents are invited to participate in Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training beginning April 15. The training is designed to help people prepare for disasters and assist their communities. The article does not provide additional specific details about the training schedule, location, or registration process in the excerpt provided.
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The Urbanist published an updated interactive map showing over 45,000 flowering stone fruit trees across Seattle, an increase from last year’s 44,000 documented trees thanks to improved data from the Seattle Department of Transportation. The map identifies 17,000+ flowering cherries including Japanese, Yoshino, Higan, and Sargent varieties, with the UW Quad, Washington Park Arboretum, and Lake Washington Boulevard near Seward Park highlighted as popular viewing destinations alongside lesser-known locations throughout the city.
The 2026 Westside Awards nominations are now open, inviting community members to recognize local heroes in the Burien and broader Westside Seattle area. The awards celebrate individuals and organizations making positive contributions to the community. Nominations can be submitted to recognize outstanding achievements in various categories.
Wally’s Chowder House in Des Moines and Wally’s Drive-In in Buckley are being sold by owner Mike Nordean to Seattle restaurateur David Meinert. The sale brings the longtime South Sound eateries under new ownership, though the article notes past scrutiny involving both the buyer and seller.
King County officials broke ground Thursday on the $174 million RapidRide I Line, a bus rapid transit project upgrading the existing Route 160 between Renton and Auburn. The 17-mile corridor project will feature upgrades to 82 bus stops, overhauls at 27 intersections with dedicated transit lanes, and increased service to every 10 minutes during peak weekday hours, with construction expected to complete in 2027. The project secured nearly $80 million in federal funding, $27.5 million in state funding, and $47.5 million in county funding.
A 36-year-old Tukwila man was arrested on Tuesday evening, March 17, by Renton Police detectives on suspicion of crimes involving a minor. The article provides limited details beyond the arrest and the suspect’s age and place of residence.
The Highline Heritage Museum will host family learning events on Saturday, March 28 in both Burien and Normandy Park. The programs will offer hands-on educational activities for children in South King County.
The Seattle Thunderbirds earned three points over the weekend and currently hold seventh place in the standings with a game in hand as they continue their playoff push. The team has final games scheduled for this weekend. Summer hockey camps are coming in August.
Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson and King County Executive Girmay Zahilay spoke at the Downtown Seattle Association’s “State of Downtown” summit, where Atlantic writer Derek Thompson delivered the keynote address on abundance and housing growth. Wilson pledged bolder transit corridor upzones and 4,000 units of emergency housing over four years, while also signaling openness to budget cuts to address a $140 million deficit she inherited. The Downtown Seattle Association’s economic report showed fentanyl-involved overdose deaths in downtown declined 27% from 2024 to 64 in 2025, though the area lost an estimated 13,000 jobs in 2025.
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Marina Mercantile and Afternoon Tea in Des Moines, which opened in June 2022 under owners Brenda Sutherland and Richard Mockler, has announced its final season of operation. The establishment originally launched with a focus on retail before expanding to offer food and wine to the community.
Sound Transit’s board reviewed three budget-balancing scenarios on March 18, 2026, to address a $34.5 billion funding shortfall through 2046, but all three options would defer or shorten light rail service to Ballard, breaking the 2016 voter-approved promise to extend service to 15th and Market Street. The proposed approaches would either prioritize projects in active design, emphasize regional connectivity, or phase all projects, with the board planning to adopt a new ST3 plan by May 2026. Ballard Link, projected to have 90,000 to 147,000 daily riders and potentially cost over $17 billion, would terminate at either Seattle Center or Smith Cove under all scenarios.
The 7 Stories community storytelling event will take place Friday, March 27 at the Highline Heritage Museum in Burien. Residents are invited to share true life stories centered on the theme of “Lucky Day” or “Outta Luck.”
Burien Free Methodist, also known as Oasis Home Church, will celebrate its 120th anniversary with a free community event on Saturday, March 28, according to organizers. The article does not provide additional details about the event’s schedule or activities.
A University of Washington Center for Human Rights report released in March 2026 documented a “powerful surge” in immigration enforcement across Washington State from October to December 2025, with the largest increases in King, Yakima, and Clark counties. The surge was driven by non-custodial street arrests using tactics including license plate queries and access to state driver’s license data. In response, multiple King County jurisdictions including Seattle, Tukwila, Seatac, Kent, and Renton have passed one-year moratoriums on new or expanded immigration detention facilities.
Washington State Patrol is seeking witnesses to a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred early Sunday, March 15, on southbound I-5 just south of the S. 200th Street off-ramp in SeaTac. The incident resulted in at least one fatality, and detectives are actively investigating the case.
Public Health – Seattle and King County completed an investigation into a gastrointestinal illness outbreak linked to the 13 Coins restaurant in SeaTac, identifying two cases. Officials determined there is no ongoing risk from the incident.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson and Oregon Governor Tina Kotek announced a phased approach to the Interstate Bridge Replacement project over the Columbia River on Tuesday, following a revised cost estimate of $13.5 billion to $15.2 billion for the full project. The initial phase will focus on a bridge replacement with light rail capability at a cost of $7.65 billion, deferring five miles of I-5 expansion and seven new interchanges to future phases with construction beginning in 2028. The scaled-down core project still faces a $450 million funding gap, with federal transit funding uncertain under the current administration.
The Urbanist Elections Committee has endorsed Claudia Balducci for King County Council District 6, citing her strong urbanist values and track record as a seasoned policymaker. First elected to the county council in 2015, Balducci is seeking her fourth term and has championed transit expansion, affordable housing for very low-income residents, homeless services, and water quality initiatives. The committee praised her work on Sound Transit issues, including her role in ensuring the 2 Line opened as a starter line on the Eastside and her advocacy for King County Metro funding restoration.
Discover Burien held its annual “Best of Burien” awards dinner and ceremony on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Rainier Golf and Country Club to recognize top local businesses and organizations in the community.
The Highline Community Symphonic Band will present a free public concert at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, at the Foster Performing Arts Center in Tukwila. Admission is free and open to the public.
Sound Transit’s board is poised to award a $350 million contract to Hoffman Construction to advance design and pre-construction on OMF South, a new train maintenance base on a 70-acre Federal Way site south of Downtown Federal Way’s current terminus, with an expected opening by 2031 or 2032. The facility will accommodate 72 next-generation double-length light rail vehicles designed by Siemens and will include the system’s first dedicated test track along I-5. If approved at the March 26 board meeting, this contract will bring the total project budget to $875 million toward the $2.2 billion facility, with construction expected to create 600 jobs and involve 4 million work hours.
Two major civic issues are dominating meetings this week in the Burien area. The Burien Airport Committee will present proposed North of NERA zoning changes on March 17 at 6 p.m., giving residents another opportunity for public comment. The Highline School Board will review $8 million in budget cuts for the coming school year at its March 18 meeting at 6 p.m., along with a Pacific Middle School presentation and a vote on $586,303 in Microsoft licensing funded by the Tech Levy.
Volunteers are invited to participate in a “Spring into the Park” event at Nature Trails Park in Normandy Park on Saturday, March 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. The event will focus on planting trees and shrubs in the park.
On Friday, March 13, heavy wet snow fell across the Highline area even as early spring flowers had begun to bloom, with temperatures hovering near melting. By Monday afternoon, the snow had largely melted away and the resilient flowers remained standing. The Highline Journal captured photos of the unusual weather phenomenon across local parks, neighborhoods, and gardens in the area.
New Evergreen and Tyee high schools in Highline Public Schools have opened their doors this fall with redesigned learning environments for students. The new buildings feature flexible classrooms and dedicated college and career spaces as part of a reimagined high school experience.
King County Metro is implementing systemwide all-door bus boarding starting Saturday, March 28, along with its spring service change that adds earlier morning trips, later evening service, and more weekend options. The policy change comes as Metro strengthens connections to Sound Transit’s new 2 Line extension between Seattle and the Eastside, and the agency has invested $5 million in ORCA card readers at every bus door to enable tap-and-pay boarding at all entry points.
Burien Police arrested a suspect following a pellet gun shooting at Dottie Harper Park on Sunday, March 15. A person was hospitalized after being shot in the arm with what police believe was a pellet gun during the incident at the park.
Washington State Legislature approved $1.3 billion in new bonds as part of a $16.6 billion two-year transportation budget, down from Governor Bob Ferguson’s original $3 billion proposal. The bonds include $500 million for cost increases on the 520 Bridge Replacement project and $800 million for highway and bridge preservation, unlocking approximately $1.5 billion in new funding for highway maintenance over eight years. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, more than 7,900 miles of state highways are overdue for preservation work, with another 9,000 miles expected to require work within the next decade.
An adult male was hospitalized following a shooting incident near White Center on March 15, 2026. The King County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident. Further details about the victim’s condition or circumstances of the shooting were not provided in the available information.
WABI Burien is hosting a free Weekday Walkers community walk on Wednesday, March 18 in Normandy Park. The walk will take participants on a loop through the park that includes hill climbing for exercise.
On March 3, King County Council passed an emergency one-year moratorium blocking permits for detention facility expansion to prevent potential ICE detention center siting, following news of the federal government exploring a new Pacific Northwest facility. Pierce County, where the 1,575-capacity Northwest Detention Center operated by GEO Group is currently located, will not consider adopting a similar ordinance until March 24. Despite efforts by immigrants’ rights groups like La Resistencia and advocates including Hannah Sabio-Howell, state and local officials have faced legal constraints from a 2022 Ninth Circuit decision that struck down California’s private prison ban as unconstitutional.
Governor Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 1687 on Monday, authorizing the state and local governments to assist the Seattle Social Housing Developer with planning, construction, or operation of housing projects under the Housing Cooperation Law. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Julia Reed (D-36th, Seattle), allows social housing authorities to potentially receive public land and logistical support to reduce development costs. The SSHD, which collected $130 million in its first year from a voter-approved high earners tax, plans to acquire its first property within six months.
The More We Love, a King County nonprofit, operates a 22-bed shelter serving approximately 45 women and children recovering from crisis, addiction, and abuse. Founded by Kristine Moreland, the organization combines private donations, volunteers, and public partnerships including a contract with King County and previous work with the City of Burien to provide recovery-focused support and mentorship. The shelter emphasizes personal relationships and stability as pathways to long-term housing and independence, with a community conversation scheduled for March 31 at Burien Library to inform neighbors about the organization’s work.
The Des Moines Historical Society is hosting two spring programs as part of America at 250 celebrations: a March 18, 2026 presentation by Dr. Michael J. Devine on Abraham Lincoln’s 1860 election and its role in the Civil War, and a May 18, 2026 talk by historian Ed Brown on the Mosquito Fleet, small steamships that served as Puget Sound’s primary transportation network before modern highways and bridges were built. Both events will be held at the Des Moines Odd Fellows Hall at 730 South 225th Street.
The King County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim of a motorhome fire in Burien’s Gregory Heights area on Friday, March 13 as Douglas William Cowell. The fire occurred on Monday, March 9, resulting in Cowell’s death.
West Seattle Light Rail will host a public forum on April 1st from 6:30-8:30 PM at Youngstown Cultural Arts Center to discuss cost-savings and service delivery updates for the light rail expansion. The event will feature Sound Transit Board member Mayor Katie Wilson, CEO Dow Constantine, Capital Delivery ED Brad Owen, and City Council member Rob Saka, and follows up on a November forum from last year.
Burien City Councilmember Alex Andrade announced Wednesday she is running for the Washington State House of Representatives in the 33rd Legislative District, Position 2, currently held by Mia Gregerson. Andrade, a Democrat and small business owner who has served on the council since 2024, said she is running to ensure local communities have stronger representation in Olympia and that state policies effectively address city challenges. The 33rd Legislative District includes Burien, Normandy Park, SeaTac, Des Moines, and parts of Kent, Tukwila, and Renton.
The Washington State Board of Education’s 2026 Charter Schools Report found that charter students outperform their peers in traditional public schools, with fourth through eighth graders scoring approximately 12 points higher in math and 8 points higher in English language arts on the Smarter Balanced Assessment. However, the report also documents that the charter sector is shrinking due to funding disparities—Why Not You Academy will close in June 2026, leaving only 15 charter schools serving roughly 4,800 students. Charter schools cannot access local levies or capital bonds that traditional districts receive, forcing them to rely on philanthropy and grants while disproportionately serving Black and low-income students.
Several public meetings are scheduled for the Burien area March 9-13, 2026. The Burien City Council will meet Monday, March 9 at 5:30 pm at 400 SW 152nd, while the Burien Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 11 has been cancelled and rescheduled for March 25. Additional meetings include the Highline Capital Facilities Advisory Committee on March 9 at 6:00 pm and city council meetings in Des Moines, Normandy Park, and SeaTac on March 10-12.
During the March 4 Highline School Board meeting, Director Stephanie Tidholm questioned whether gender-affirming care is provided at school-based HealthPoint clinics, prompting clarification that medical transition treatments like puberty blockers and surgeries are not offered on campus. The board voted 4-0 to approve a HealthPoint license agreement for clinics at Highline, Evergreen, and Tyee high schools, with the Highline clinic having served 354 students through approximately 1,300 visits this school year. HealthPoint clarified that behavioral health staff may discuss gender identity concerns with students, while confirming that gender-affirming medical treatments are not provided at the on-campus clinics.
Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority will hold a public hearing on October 16, 2024, to review revenue sources for the 2025 expense budget and establish the fire benefit charge for 2025. Similarly, King County Fire District #43 will hold a public hearing on October 17, 2024, to review revenue sources for their 2025 expense budget.
King County Fire Protection District No. 37 has announced a vacancy on its Board of Commissioners, with the King County Council assuming responsibility for filling the position. The Board has recommended David Scalabrini for the vacant seat, though the Council will consider all qualified applicants. Interested candidates must be registered voters residing in the District and submit a resume or biographical statement along with a statement of interest to RegionalAffairs@kingcounty.gov by July 30, 2024.
King County Fire District No. 43 is seeking to fill a Commissioner Position #1 vacancy through appointment, with the term lasting through certification of the November 2025 General Election. The Board of Commissioners nominated Mark Mulich for the position and will accept additional nominations from registered voters through June 6, 2024 at 3:00 pm. Candidate interviews will be held on June 20, 2024 at 6:00 pm during the District’s regular meeting, with applicants required to be registered voters residing within KCFD #43 or Maple Valley city limits.
Puget Sound Fire has announced a vacancy for Position #3 on the Civil Service Commissioner Board. The vacancy will be filled by the RFA Governance Board appointment, with the selected commissioner serving a 6-year term. Interested individuals can find requirements, duties, and an application form on the Puget Sound Fire website.
On August 31 at noon, the King County Fire Chief’s Association and King County Fire Marshals terminated the Stage 2 Burn Ban, allowing small recreational fires to resume. The decision was based on recent cooler weather, increased humidity, and anticipated precipitation that reduced wildland fire danger. However, the Stage 1 Burn Ban covering other outdoor burning remains in effect until further notice.
On August 15, 2023, King County Fire Marshals implemented a Stage 2 Burn Ban, which prohibits all outdoor fires including recreational campfires, pellet fireplaces, cooking fires, and ceremonial fires. Residents are advised to refer to the Puget Sound Fire Outdoor Burning page for complete details about the burn ban restrictions.
King County Fire District #43 has adopted a resolution to submit a levy proposition to voters on August 1, 2023, seeking to restore the property tax levy rate to $1.50 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. The district is currently seeking volunteers to participate in pro and con voter pamphlet statement committees, with interested residents asked to contact District Secretary Jessica Steward by 4:00 pm on May 12, 2023, via phone at 253-856-4323 or email at JSteward@pugetsoundfire.org.
King County Fire Protection District 37 will hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. at Fire Station 78 in Covington, with options to attend in-person or virtually via Zoom. The meeting will be conducted according to the posted agenda, which can be viewed on the Puget Sound Fire website.
Puget Sound Fire is currently seeking new employees and has multiple job openings available. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the organization’s “Join Our Family” page to view full job descriptions and learn how to apply.