Commentary

Talton’s Westlake Starbucks Nostalgia is Misplaced, Take it from a Barista

Recently The Seattle Times published a eulogy for the shuttered Starbucks at Westlake Park by columnist Jon Talton. In the piece, Talton explains how...
A construction crane over a building under construction with another building under construction across the street and workers standing between them.

A Housing Advocate’s Guide to Commenting on Seattle’s Comprehensive Plan Update

The Urbanist has reported on the rezoning concepts unveiled for Seattle's 2024 Major Comprehensive Plan Update, which will guide growth in the city for...

Swim Classes Save Lives, But It’s Hard to Snag a Spot in Seattle

Last summer I signed my daughter up for a 15 minute private swim lesson at Little Fish Swim School. After a 45 minute bike...

No Sign of Republican Wave, Washingtonians Turn to Democrats for Housing Fixes

Washington State Democrats enjoy a resounding 20-point edge in a generic state legislature ballot, according to a recent Crosscut/Elway poll. Neither President Joe Biden...

Building the Body Athletic – Your Urbanist Sports Year

It’s 4th of July weekend, so we’re in the doldrums of the sports year. WNBA, soccer, and baseball are in the long stretch of...

We Own This City Because You Cut It Adrift

A policing drama from the creators of "The Wire" and "Treme" is a devastating look at urban policy. The police aren’t coming, and we know...
A four-story building under construction.

Seattle Reveals Rezoning Concepts and Invites Scoping Comments for Big 2024 Update

Today the Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD) unveiled its rezoning concepts for the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update, which will guide growth for...
I-t trench with skyscapers and overpasses in the background.

Ridehailing Sees Bigger Ridership Dip than Transit in Seattle

Ridehailing appears to be on shakier foundation than transit coming out of the pandemic. As commuting patterns slowly return to normal, ridehailing appears to have...