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Environment & Sustainability

Seattle Floats Scaling Back Energy Code Changes to Cut Housing Costs

Seattle could hit the brakes on implementing an energy code that's much more stringent than the state code, in the hopes of getting more housing units into the development pipeline.

Trailhead Direct’s 2024 Schedule Restores Second Route to Hiking Destinations

King County's popular Trailhead Direct weekend shuttle service between Seattle and Eastside hiking hotspots returns on May 25 with two separate routes to choose from. The last two seasons, the County offered just one route.

Grant Request Would Accelerate Complete Streets Investments on State Highways

State highways like SR 900 in Skyway are missing safe places to bike and walk. A mandate to fix that could be expedited by an ambitious $100 million grant that the state is seeking from the EPA.
A box of carrots and other produce with rows of plantings in the background.

Urbanism 101: How Urban Agriculture Can Boost Food Security

Producing food locally boosts food security and self-sufficiency, especially in urban areas. Beacon Food Forest and Tilth Alliance are advancing urban agriculture in Seattle, joining an international trend.
I-5 and the Seattle Skyline at sunset looking down Yesler Way to Elliott Bay with Smith Tower peeking out on the left and the car-clogged I-5 trench on the right.

Why Climate Advocates Should Be Urbanists

Land use policy is a powerful tool to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change. So why isn’t it a bigger part of the policy debate? This four-part 'Land Use and Climate Change' series explores that question.
Kayaks beached among the driftwood along the Duwamish River

Community Development Counters Eco-Gentrification from Duwamish Valley Cleanup

The Duwamish River is a contaminated Superfund site, but cleanup is underway. Advocates are pushing for community development and affordable housing to reduce displacement as the Duwamish Valley becomes more attractive.
A person bikes on a trestle bridge with a few pedestrians in the background.

Washington’s Statewide E-bike Rebate Program Is Still on the Way

More than a year after the state legislature allocated $5 million in funding, we still don't have a firm date for when e-bike rebates will be available. But WSDOT says work is still happening behind the scenes and a potential launch date is on the horizon.
Looking at the microsoft campus from the redmond technology station

East Link TOD: Microsoft Grows Around Redmond Technology Station, If Not Housing

A huge Microsoft Campus "Refresh" redevelopment is underway next door to Redmond Technology Station. It will add three million square feet of office space, but not much housing and no highrises.