Staff Biography
Ryan Packer
Contributing EditorRyan Packer lives in the Summit Slope neighborhood of Capitol Hill. They are on the board of the Friends of Pike Place Market and write about transportation issues at Capitol Hill Seattle. They believe in using Seattle’s history to attain the vibrant, diverse city that we wish to inhabit. Follow them on Twitter @typewriteralley or email at ryan [at] theurbanist [dot] org.
Recent Articles
Sound Transit Selects Private Bus Operator for Stride BRT Network
The $433 million contract with MV Transportation extends through 2032, and includes full start-up costs for the three Stride lines. It's the first time that Sound Transit has contracted with a private operator for core transit services.
Pro-Housing Candidates Make Gains All Around Puget Sound
On the whole, there were bright spots for urbanist candidates all around the region, with major gains seen in Burien, Redmond, and Tacoma. There was also some backsliding in places like Sammamish and Bainbridge Island.
Six Local Elections Outside Seattle That Could Be Bellwethers
From Bremerton to Issaquah and Tacoma, key races are on the ballot around the region that loom large for urbanist priorities. The outcome could determine where things are headed.
Seattle Budget Tweaks Would Add Transit Security Czar, Rescue Waterfront Streetcars
Focused on transit and street upgrades, budget amendments this week will be the subject of behind-the-scenes wrangling as Budget Committee Chair Dan Strauss assembles an initial balancing package for the council to debate next week.
Kirkland Council Elections Could Tip City in Reactionary Direction
In four different races, Kirkland voters face a choice between pro-growth candidates interested in fostering additional types of housing throughout the city, and candidates looking for the city to be way less aggressive in fighting the region's affordable housing crisis.