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Celia Kennedy, Project Manager for Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) Broadview Sewer and Drainage Improvements Project, gave an update at the Broadview Community Council meeting on October 15. Below is a summary she provided.

Dear Broadview Community,

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is working to improve the sewer and drainage system in the Broadview neighborhood. The following update provides the latest information about the project, and tips on how you can prepare for the rainy season.

Broadview Sewer and Drainage Improvement Project Update

The goals of the Broadview Sewer and Drainage Improvement Project are to reduce the potential for sewer backups to properties and in the right-of-way, as well as to reduce the potential for surface flooding to properties (building structures and yards) in Broadview.

Recent Draft Geotechnical Study Completed in the Western Portion of Broadview

This summer a geotechnical study in the western portion of Broadview was completed by SPU’s contractors to gain a better understanding of the hydrology in the area. A good understanding of the groundwater conditions and flows is necessary for SPU to develop effective sewer and drainage solutions. The western portion of Broadview has the highest frequency of sewer backups in all of Broadview. This study was needed because of the high groundwater table and steep slopes in this area.

Sewer and Drainage Options Analysis for the Western Portion of Broadview

SPU is analyzing the most viable sewer and drainage solutions for Broadview. SPU is evaluating alternative solutions to sewer backups and stormwater flooding in the western portion of Broadview, known as the 12th Ave. basin. We will examine potential options in terms of cost, time to implement, potential effects to residents during construction, environmental benefits/impacts, and other key factors. As we analyze the alternatives, we will work with the community to get your input on recommended solutions. We anticipate beginning design for capital improvements in the 12th Ave. basin toward the end of 2014. We are currently projecting to break ground on the 12th Ave. capital improvement project in 2016.

Sewer and Drainage Options Analysis for the Eastern Portion of Broadview

SPU will also be conducting a similar Options Analysis for the eastern half of Broadview (named Dayton Ave. basin) which will begin after we complete the analysis on the western portion of Broadview. The reason for this timing (as noted above) is because the 12th Ave. basin has a significantly higher frequency of sewer backups. Design for Dayton Ave. basin sewer and drainage improvements is currently projected to begin in early 2015.

Sandbags Available from Seattle Public Utilities

SPU wants to help you “Take Winter by Storm” by offering a limited number of free, pre-filled sandbags. Sandbags will be available in mid-October (an exact date will be provided when available). Note that sandbags are heavy (they weigh about 40 pounds each), so be sure either you, or someone you bring with you, can lift, carry, and load the sandbags into your vehicle. The nearest sandbag pick-up location is the:

Helene Madison Pool

13401 Meridian Ave. N

Seattle 98133

Be Prepared for Stormy Weather

Since the rainy season has returned to Seattle this fall, we would like to remind you to be prepared by cleaning storm grates near your home, and placing sandbags at key sites to help prevent flooding. While sandbags don’t seal out water, they can help redirect the flow of water. Sandbags must be used with caution because it is illegal to divert water to your neighboring properties. Sandbags can be purchased at Home Depot and other locations, and will be available through SPU starting later this fall (see above).

Prior to a storm event in early September, we provided tips on preparing for the storm season on the Broadview listserve. These tips are provided below. As always, please report any sewage back-up issues in your home, or stormwater flooding problems, by calling the Seattle Public Utilities 24/7 Operations Response Center at 206-386-1800.

Thank you for your patience during the technical analysis phases of this large capital improvement project. Working with the members of the community, we will build effective long-term sewer and drainage system improvements in Broadview.

Thank you,

Celia S. Kennedy, MPA

Project Manager

Broadview Sewer and Drainage Improvement Project

SPU_BroadviewProjects@seattle.gov

(206) 409-3651

www.seattle.gov/util/BroadviewProjects

Here are some tips to help you prepare for a storm:

· Keep backflow valves on your side sewer in good working condition: If you have a backflow valve, please clean it four times a year and replace any non-working parts. Those with flap gate valves should inspect and clean those valves to ensure they are in working order. Those with knife gate valves should exercise those valves per manufacturer instructions to ensure proper operation.
· Keep storm drains free of debris: Check your neighborhood storm drains and remove any debris that has accumulated. Check storm drains again during storms to ensure they remain open and free flowing. Silt socks or other catch basin inserts near construction projects can be a hazard during storms. If you know of any areas in your neighborhood where construction is complete, but catch basin inserts remain, call 206-386-1800 to have them removed.
· Have sandbags on hand: If you live in an area that you know is prone to flooding, consider keeping some sandbags nearby for your own use. Sandbags don’t seal out water, but can help redirect the flow of water and protect property from debris. Sandbags must be used with caution because it is illegal to divert water to your neighboring properties.
· Stay out of the way of flood waters: Play it safe and stay out of low-lying areas during times of heavy rains. If your basement is prone to flooding, stay out of it and other low points until the risk of flooding has passed.
· Stay safe when driving: Don’t try to drive through large puddles where you can’t judge the water depth.

Metro Transit Constructing Improvements for the Rapid Ride D Line at 7th Ave. NW and Holman Road

by Dale Johnson

Posted: October 14, 2013

Construction is underway of roadway improvements at the north end of the RapidRide D Line that will enable the D Line to better access its existing terminal on NW 100th Place by way of Holman Road.

Through the course of the project, crews will be building:
1.   A new left turn pocket on Holman Road NW at Seventh Avenue NW for northeast bound traffic.
2.   Improvements on Seventh Avenue NW, which will be converted to one-way northbound travel, completely rebuilding the street as a concrete roadway. New curb and sidewalk will be constructed on the west side between Holman Road NW and NW 100th Street. Parking on the west side of Seventh Avenue NW will be prohibited; the east side of Seventh Avenue NW will have access for truck deliveries to adjacent businesses and parking at the back side of the Carkeek Plaza Shopping Center.
3.   NW 100th Street between Seventh Avenue NW and NW 100th Place will be realigned and rebuilt with a concrete roadway, providing two-way access to the Carkeek Plaza Shopping Center. New curb and sidewalk on the south side of NW 100th Street will be added.
4.   To better connect riders to the D line stop on NW 100th Place, pedestrian crossing improvements and roadway repairs will be made at the intersections of NW 100th Street, NW 100th Place, NW 100th Street and Eighth Avenue NW. The existing northbound slip lane that connects Eighth Avenue NW and NW 100th Place will be removed and all traffic will use the 4-way stop at the Eighth Avenue NW and NW 100th Street intersection. New sidewalk will be built on the south side of NW 100th Street.
5.   Curb improvements will be made at the intersection of NW 100th Street and NW 100th Place to enable the westbound to northbound right-turn movement of Metro buses; the reconfiguration of this intersection will greatly reduce the crossing distance.

A map of the project changes is at this Metro site.

Seattle City Council Supports Sound Transit Station at 130th St.

by Dale Johnson

Posted: October 11, 2013

Sound Transit has been in the planning stage for the extension of light rail to Lynnwood, and one of the issues is where stations would be located. Seattle City Council has voiced its support for a station at N 130th and I-5. Below is a press release about that.

Council Voices Support for Future Light Rail station at 130th Street Calls on Sound Transit to study an additional station

SEATTLE — On Monday, October 7, Council unanimously adopted Resolution Number 31486 making recommendations to Sound Transit’s Board about the Lynnwood Link extension through Seattle. The Council recommended that the Board adopt a surface route in the I-5 right-of-way with stations at 130th and 145th as the Preferred Alternative in the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). The surface route is the least expensive and least disruptive alternative. The proposed station at 130th Street was not part of the original Sound Transit plan, but the Council asked that it be included in the final environmental review.

“Without this station, there would be no stop between Northgate and 145th, a stretch of almost four miles, and residents of North Seattle would have to access light rail via either the congested Northgate area or the 145th Street station. Both of these options are challenging for buses and motor vehicles and downright daunting for bicycles and pedestrians,” said Councilmember Richard Conlin, sponsor of the resolution and Sound Transit Board member. “While it is very important that Sound Transit, as a regional organization, move forward with connecting key regional centers, it is also important that those lines serve key neighborhoods within Seattle and other cities.”

The Sound Transit Capital Committee will take up this issue and is likely to agree to support the City recommendations for studying the 130th St. station at its meeting on Thursday, October 10th. The full Board of Directors will vote in October or November on the alignment and stations to be designated as the Lynnwood Link Preferred Alternative in the FEIS.

Broadview Garden Club Meeting tonight

by Susan George

Posted: October 10, 2013

Hope you can join us!

This Thursday for our second meeting of the fall, 7:00 pm at Luther Church,
(13047 Greenwood Ave. North) in the Fireside Room.

10/10 Topic: “Make your own custom Mulch”
Our speaker will be Frank Jones, a veteran professional gardener, who mixes up a variety of special mulches for the garden using mostly free and gathered materials to nourish your garden and keep down weeds. He is an engaging speaker, and will explain how he sources his materials and will demonstrate how he mixes up his special blends at the meeting. He’ll also talk about using compost blends to rejuvenate your tired lawns and garden beds.

Remember to bring plastic containers or plastic bags (quart, gallon or larger size) to bring some mulch samples home to try.

Interested in joining the Broadview Garden Club?

We meet at 7:00 the second Thursday of the month with guest speakers. Monthly meeting run Sept thru June with occasional events in the summer. This year our meeting will be at Luther Memorial Lutheran Church in the Fireside room, 13047 Greenwood Ave. N. Membership is limited to 25 so act soon!

Topics run from Horticultural Myths to Plants for shady gardens.

Our club was est. in1951 and our mission:

To encourage the interests of the members in better and beautiful gardens.
To aid in protection of native trees, plants, flowers, and birds.
To encourage civic planting.
To study in all aspects the fine arts of gardening through fellowship and cooperation.
To inspire and promote good friendship between members of the club.

Membership dues are $20.00 a year. If you are interested in joining or have questions please feel free to call or email:

Susan George 206.285.2532

sue@seattlesue.com

Broadview Community Council Meets Tuesday October 15 at 7 PM

by Dale Johnson

Posted: October 7, 2013

Broadview Community Council Meeting

Tuesday, October 15, 2013, 7 PM

Luther Memorial Church

13047 Greenwood Avenue N

An Update on Seattle Public Utilities Sewer Project in Broadview

Seattle Public Utilities will update the Broadview residents on the various Sewer and Drainage projects in Broadview. The Utility has had to update their projects because of the difficulties that they have run into. Come hear what their new plans are.

Seattle Department of Transportation Update on Aurora Ave Sidewalk Projects in Broadview

The Seattle Department of Transportation will update us various sidewalk projects to be built around Aurora Ave in Broadview. Some of them will go to construction this winter.

Doors will open at 6:45 PM for information displays and a chance for you to meet and greet neighbors. The meeting will start at 7 PM.

See you at the meeting.

Eugene Wasserman

President

Broadview Community Council

www.broadviewseattle.org

Concerns Expressed about Allowed Area for I-502 Marijuana Businesses

by Dale Johnson

Updated: October 4, 2013

The city of Seattle has produced a discussion draft of the Estimated Allowed Area for I-502 Licensed Marijuana Businesses Under City and State Regulations (includes growing, processing, and retail facilities).

Here is a map from the discussion draft. Click on the photo for a larger view. You can then click again for an even larger view.

The Broadview Community Council has written a letter to Seattle City Council members expressing concern about the area in the Bitter Lake Urban Village. Here is the text of the letter.

Seattle City Councilmembers,

I am writing you on behalf of the Broadview Community Council. We recently reviewed the Department of Planning and Development map that shows where marijuana growing and processing would be allowed.

The Broadview Council was horrified to see that the third largest area where marijuana growing and processing are allowed is the Bitter-Lake Urban Village. We do not understand how an area designated for job and population growth is now designated for large scale marijuana growing, processing and retailing.

We strongly urge the Council to reexamine the current Council marijuana legislation and reduce the potential concentration of marijuana grow and processing operations in the Bitter-Lake Urban Village.

Eugene Wasserman

President, Broadview Community Council

Elevated levels of algae detected at Haller Lake

by Dale Johnson

Posted: October 1, 2013

Seattle Public Utilities put out an advisory about elevated levels of algae in Haller Lake. Below is the complete text.

An elevated level of toxic algae has been detected at Haller Lake. In cooperation with the Department of Health, Seattle Public Utilities advises the public to stay out of the lake in areas of algae accumulation and to keep their pets from drinking the water.

Toxic algae accumulates in areas along the shoreline and are a health risk to people and pets. People with allergies or sensitive reactions to substances may experience rashes or skin irritation after exposure. Do not allow animals to drink from the lake in these areas. Do not go into water where there are visible algae accumulations, streaks, or scum on the top. If you are in doubt, stay safe and stay out.

Warning signs are being posted at the two public access locations on Haller Lake. City of Seattle and King County will conduct weekly samples of algae and will remove the warning signs once levels are below state recreational guidelines. Results of algae sampling and additional information on toxic algal blooms can be found at: https://www.nwtoxicalgae.org/Default.aspx

There is also currently a toxic algae bloom in Green Lake. For more information on the toxic algae bloom in Green Lake, go to the Seattle Parks and Recreation Web site: (http://parkways.seattle.gov/2013/09/12/green-lake-algae-bloom-only-harmful-where-scum-is-found/)

If you have questions about the elevated levels of algae at Haller Lake, you may contact Ingrid Wertz with Seattle Public Utilities at 206-386-0015 or ingrid.wertz@seattle.gov.

Seattle City Light Has a Program for Lower Winter Rates

by Dale Johnson

Posted: September 27, 2013

Seattle City Light has announced its program for income-eligible customers to reduce winter utility costs. Below is their announcement.

Before cold winter weather returns to the Seattle area and starts driving up heating costs, Seattle City Light is working to help income-eligible customers cut their utility bills by 60 percent.

“It can be tough enough to make ends meet on a limited income,” City Light Energy Delivery Officer Phil West said. “People shouldn’t have to choose between staying warm in the winter and buying groceries. We’re here to help.”

The Utility Discount Program helps seniors and income-qualified families by lowering rates on the electricity provided by Seattle City Light and services from Seattle Public Utilities, including water, sewer and garbage. The average annual savings on electricity for participants is $450.

About 13,500 customers are already participating. An estimated 20,000 others are eligible for reduced rates, but have not yet signed up for the program.

City Light has started several efforts to break down barriers to participation caused by language differences, cultural skepticism and the required documentation. Staff members are available to help customers with their applications. Staff will hold office hours in neighborhood service centers to answer questions, guide people through the process and accept applications. And a pilot program is being developed to reach out to East African communities and seniors.

Additionally, staff will offer home visits to participants to identify opportunities for reducing their energy consumption. Participants will receive energy efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs, outlet gaskets, low-flow showerheads and referrals to the Homewise weatherization program and other resources. Visit www.seattle.gov/light/discount, call (206) 684-3417 or email scl_rateassistance@seattle.gov for more Information.

Seattle City Light is the 10th largest public electric utility in the United States. It has some of the lowest cost customer rates of any urban utility, providing reliable, renewable and environmentally responsible power to nearly 1 million Seattle area residents. City Light has been greenhouse gas neutral since 2005, the first electric utility in the nation to achieve that distinction.

October is Disaster Preparedness Month

by Dale Johnson

Posted: September 23, 2013

Below is information about Washington’s disaster preparedness month.

October is Disaster Preparedness and NOAA Weather Radio Month

Camp Murray, Wash. – Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed October as Washington State Disaster Preparedness Month and NOAA Weather Radio Awareness Month. In keeping with the proclamation, local jurisdictions, individuals, schools and businesses across the state will promote all-hazard preparedness throughout the month.

Highlight of the month is the Great Washington Shakeout “drop, cover and hold on” earthquake drill on Oct. 17 at 10:17 a.m. The drill will emphasize the urgent need for people, organizations, schools, communities and businesses to practice what to do to be safe during an earthquake, and how to be ready before an earthquake strikes. In addition, coastal communities will test their tsunami alert sirens at the same time.

“Earthquakes are one of the greatest hazards in our state,” said Robert Ezelle, director of the Emergency Management Division of the Washington Military Department. “The good thing about the Great Washington Shakeout is that so many members of the public will come out of it better prepared not only for quakes, but for other significant hazards such as tsunamis, floods, winter storms and acts of terror.”

Organizers with the Military Department’s Emergency Management Division are aiming for one million Washingtonians to participate in the drill. To date, more than 550,000 have registered, and the number is climbing. Last year, 710,000 people participated. People and organizations can sign up at www.shakeout.org/washington.

This is the second ShakeOut for the state of Washington. More than 37 states, Guam, Puerto Rico, American Samoa and the Province of British Columbia will run an earthquake drill on the same date and time. Participants in the Utah and in other countries will conduct their ShakeOut drills on other dates.

Gov. Inslee’s proclamation also touts two other October happenings that emphasize emergency preparedness:

The governor proclaimed October as National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio Awareness Month. NOAA Weather Radios provide emergency alerts about approaching hazards, complementing other disaster information sources.
The governor also took note of the Take Winter By Storm campaign that kicks off in October. Take Winter By Storm will highlight preparedness actions for the public to take to be ready for winter storms.

For information about Washington State Disaster Preparedness Month, NOAA weather radios, and emergency preparedness, go to http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_index.shtml.

Oct. 26 Meeting about Siting SPD North Precinct Station

by Dale Johnson

Updated: September 18, 2013

The City of Seattle has been looking for a site for a new Seattle Police Department North Precinct Station, to replace the existing Station. Below is information about a potential site at Aurora Ave. N and N 130th St., and a community meeting about the site selection process. The meeting will be on Saturday October 26 at the Bitter Lake Community Center, 10 AM to Noon. Below is information from the City website.

The existing North Precinct Police Station, built in 1984 to house 154 staff and now home to 254, is badly overcrowded and there is not enough space available to adequately expand it on its current site.
In September 2012, as part of the budgeting process, Mayor Mike McGinn proposed doing the planning required in 2013 to acquire land for a new station in 2014. The City Council accepted the Mayor’s proposal and directed the Department of Finance and Administrative Services to accelerate the schedule, moving funding from 2014 to 2013 to support activities related to planning and site acquisition.

Work is now under way to find and purchase a site for a new station by December 2013, as well as assemble an architecture and engineering team so building predesign can begin this year, instead of waiting for purchase of an actual site.

Latest News

City Identifies Recommended Site for New Station; Schedules Community Open House The City of Seattle has identified property – located at the southeast corner of Aurora Avenue North and North 130th Street – as the recommended site for a new police station to serve the north precinct. Council review and approval of legislation authorizing the property acquisition, including a public hearing, is expected in December 2013. Additionally, the City will host a community open house on Saturday, Oct. 26, to provide more information on the site selection process, how the site meets SPD’s operational needs, the development schedule, and future opportunities for public comment. The open house will be from 10 a.m. to noon at the Bitter Lake Community Center gym, 13035 Linden Ave. N. More…