September 2024

Morgan Junction Park is in the process of a major transformation as work proceeds on an ambitious expansion project. The Seattle Parks and Recreation Department (SPR) has been engaged in the remediation efforts on the newly acquired parcel, formerly the site of a dry cleaning business that began in August.

The first phase of the project, expected to last approximately eight weeks, has focused on removing hazardous soil from the 0.47-acre property at 6311 California Ave SW. This crucial step involves several stages:

1. Demolition of existing concrete and asphalt surfaces
2. Installation of temporary shoring
3. Excavation to a depth of 16 feet to remove soil contaminated with dry-cleaning solvents
4. Backfilling with clean soil
5. Addition of topsoil and temporary irrigation
6. Planting of grass

This remediation work is essential to ensure the safety and environmental integrity of the expanded park area.

Information from Seattle Police Blotter

Update Sept. 19

Seattle Police Operations Lieutenant Nate Shopay offered an updated explanation regarding this incident that was initially called a "carjacking" and said, " In regards to the carjacking, it was never a carjacking.
They did appear to be attempting to steal a car though, 7-8 juveniles,
then decided to intimidate the car owner who had a gun which didn't work out well for one of the thieves as they were left behind and arrested."

Original post Sept. 17

by Detective Eric Muñoz 

Seattle Police arrested a 13-year-old following his suspected involvement in an attempted carjacking in West Seattle two weeks ago.

information from West Seattle Art Tour

The 2024 West Seattle Art Tour is this Saturday, September 21, from 10 am to 5 pm! Tour 14 artist-hosted locations across West Seattle on this free, self-guided tour. The event features a full spectrum of art, a chance to meet and talk with 55 participating artists, and the opportunity to purchase exceptional works of art, all while exploring West Seattle’s beautiful neighborhoods. 

How does it work? 

Information from Seattle Department of Transportation

The Spokane St Swing Bridge (also known as the West Seattle Low Bridge) will remain closed to motor vehicles as Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) crews continue to repair damage from a car crash on the evening of September 14. On Sunday, crews completed initial repairs allowing bicycles and pedestrians to use the bridge and enabling ships to request a bridge opening. 

SDOT engineers and maintenance crews are making swift progress on repairs to the bridge. While work is moving forward efficiently, technicians do not expect to be able to reopen the bridge within the next few days and are continuing to develop a more exact timeline.

Cars and trucks should follow the detour route and use the West Seattle High-Rise bridge to travel across the Duwamish Waterway. Harbor Island can still be accessed from the east via S Spokane St coming from the SODO neighborhood.  

Local restaurateur Dan Austin has announced the upcoming closure of his Morgan Junction restaurant Peel and Press. The last day is Oct. 27.

The restaurant and Austin earned an extraordinary reputation as being supportive of the entire restaurant community, coming to the aid of many during the pandemic and since opening 2014 has gone on to be co-owner of The Bridge and The Point in Burien as well as the Flight Path Tavern in Beverly Park. Austin whose background includes time with Starbucks, Red Robin and Papa Johns, shared the announcement via social media.

In the heart of West Seattle, a culinary gem is about to mark a momentous milestone. Phoenecia Restaurant, a beloved establishment that has been delighting taste buds since 1974, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a grand 50-day extravaganza culminating in a dazzling 70's glam party on November 3rd.