Monthly Archives: September 2025
Federal Judge Ends Consent Decree Oversight of Seattle Police Department
On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge James Robart granted the motion to terminate Seattle’s consent decree, ending a saga of federal police oversight that began 15 years ago. Community safety advocates say issues remain at the Seattle Police Department and more reforms are needed.
Sound Transit Eyes Double-Length Light Rail Vehicles for Next Major Purchase
The Series 3 cars, set to go into service starting in 2033, would boost passenger capacity by between 5% and 13% while being 10% cheaper. Other details, including passenger layout and amenities, remain to be determined as Sound Transit continues planning.
The Sound Transit Board Signals a Return to Parochialism
Faced with an agency-wide budget gap approaching $30 billion for the next wave of expansion plans, Sound Transit boardmembers are retreating to their corners and doubling down on parochialism. Clearly, a more holistic approach is needed, driven by outcomes and regional cooperation.
Harrell Stumps for West Seattle, Ballard Light Rail, Facing Financial Headwinds
A press event in Ballard Tuesday was intended to bolster support for getting Seattle's next two light rail lines across the finish line. But rhetoric won't change the dynamics on the Sound Transit board, which feature suburban leaders just as dug in to prioritize the spine from Tacoma to Everett.
Join The Urbanist for September Socials, Bike Ride, and Volunteer Training
This September, The Urbanist is blending community-building with political advocacy as we head into the thick of Seattle Comprehensive Plan and election season. Beyond our social meetups, join us at a Comp Plan-themed Madison Valley walking tour September 10 or a bike scavenger hunt on September 28.
New Seattle Clinic to Provide Post-Overdose Stabilization Services
Last week, the Downtown Emergency Service Center (DESC) celebrated the grand opening of its new Downtown Behavioral Health Clinic. Included onsite is its Opioid Recovery & Care Access (ORCA) Center, which will provide a safe landing place for people to recover after an overdose.
Sound Transit to Overhaul Sounder Railcar Fleet
The original 58 Sounder railcars, which have been in service since the launch of Sound Transit's first commuter rail line in 2000, will see a full refurbishment to extend their life. The overhauls come at a turning point for the future of Sounder.
SDOT Rules Out Key Denny Way Bus Lanes, Dooming Route 8
Citing exponential increases in traffic congestion, the Seattle Department of Transportation says it can't implement additional bus priority along the busiest part of Denny Way. Transit advocates aren't giving up.