Latest News

State gas tax going up by 1.1 cents to 56.5 cents per gallon

Washington state’s gas tax, already among the highest in the nation, is going up next week.

Nickelsville to Open Rainier Valley Tiny House Village After Long Delays

After years of delays and political battles, Nickelsville's Brighton Village will soon welcome its first residents, bringing 14 tiny homes and a self-governed shelter community to Rainier Valley.

World Cup Pride Protests, Montlake’s Plan for Permanent Affordable Homes, and Jane’s Three-Ferry Century

Today on the podcast, host Jane C. Hu is joined by contributors Marcus Harrison Green and Brett Hamil to discuss the record-setting attendance at the Juneteenth World Cup event last week and the more contentious collision of Pride weekend with the Egypt-Iran match — two countries where being queer can mean facing prison or the death penalty. Then, a proposed Seattle City Council bill could turn a former SR-520 Bridge staging area into permanently affordable homes priced starting at $250K. But who actually qualifies? And Jane wonders, can nonprofits be trusted to manage this land for decades? Finally, the three talk about weekend plans ranging from seeing Supergirl in theaters, a magazine launch party, and Jane’s three-ferry century bike ride. Oh, and if you’re a City Cast neighbor, it’s bonus segment day! Jane is joined by producers Liam and Sam to discuss a new robot built by a Seattle startup that “wants to be your kid’s classroom buddy and your mom’s new friend.” Tune in for a discussion that ranges from the Disney Channel Original Movie Smart House to intergenerational relationships and transhumanism.  Learn more about the sponsors of this episode: Woodland Park Zoo Seattle Restored Washington State Fair Argosy Cruises Grand Central Bakery Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastSeattle on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 206-880-3931. For more Seattle news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Seattle. Support City Cast Seattle by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/seattle Looking to advertise on City Cast Seattle? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

WA child welfare deaths drop significantly after record year

Deaths and critical injuries among children in Washington’s child welfare system fell steeply in the first quarter of 2026, state officials reported June 24.

REMINDER: World Cup action hits White Center this Friday at “Gather for Goals” Festival

REMINDER: World Cup action hits White Center this Friday at “Gather for Goals” Festival Off patr Thu, 06/25/2026 - 11:35am

SPD May Slow Hiring in 2026 Amid Budget, Training Challenges

Seattle police hiring could slow despite rising officer numbers, as budget pressures and training bottlenecks reshape staffing plans that could affect response across neighborhoods, including the South End.

Why the Walrus and the Carpenter Closed and an Update on the Grand Cinema's Threat

Today on the pod, host Jane C. Hu is joined by regular contributor Chase Hutchinson and newsletter writer and journalist Harry Cheadle to talk about the latest strikes at The Walrus and The Carpenter and Hilton Hotels, including the very unusual decision for management at the Ballard spot to drop anonymized compensation for some of their workers. Then they talk about the upsetting news from Tacoma that a threat was called into the city’s Grand Cinema and how the community rallied around the beloved venue. Finally, the trio talks about a medley of news, including record Lime scooter rentals last weekend, Katie Wilson meeting with the Seattle film commission, and updates on park rangers at The Enchantments this summer. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 25th episode: Woodland Park Zoo Seattle Restored Washington State Fair Argosy Cruises Grand Central Bakery Want to get in touch? Follow us @CityCastSeattle on Instagram, or email us at [email protected]. You can also call or text us at 206-880-3931. For more Seattle news, make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, City Cast Seattle. Support City Cast Seattle by becoming a member: membership.citycast.fm/seattle Looking to advertise on City Cast Seattle? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise.

West Seattle Ledger

West Seattle Ledger Off patr Wed, 06/24/2026 - 2:18pm

Speed camera fines to increase in work zones beginning July 1 | WSDOT

Infraction penalties have risen from $0 to $125; second and subsequent penalties remain at $248.

Overwhelmed? It’s time to focus on just a few | In Focus

The temptation to block everything out is strong. Now’s not the time to bury your head in the sand.

Discounts and a deciduous disaster | The Compleat Home Gardener

Also, tips on gravel gardens for a lower water bill.

COLUMN | In Rainier Beach, Not Every Gunshot Means Danger - But It Feels Like It