Big day for small runway: 14L/32R reopens after rehabilitation project
Crossposted from the DES Express Before dawn on Oct. 30, promptly at 7 a.m., Runway 14L/32R at King County International Airport-Boeing Field (KCIA) officially reopened for flight operations. Moments later, BETA Technologies’ ALIA electric aircraft quietly took off from the runway (watch a video of the flight), the first plane to do so. Later, airport tenants, guests and employees celebrated the reopening of the small utility runway at a brief gathering over the lunch hour outside the terminal, with Mount Rainier in the background. “This is celebrating the history of Boeing Field,”… Read More
Emergency exercise tests communications ahead of World Cup
Crossposted from the DES Express For the first time, Emergency Management held a drill called a Joint Information Center/Joint Information System exercise involving other local governments and non-profit organizations in addition to the usual King County agencies. A total of 33 people participated, with 13 of those in person and 20 online. They hailed from as far south as Clark County and as far north as Vancouver, Canada. Another eight people were involved in exercise coordination. “This exercise was a great opportunity to have our partners test the communications plans and procedures… Read More
Executive Braddock announces upgrades to Metro’s Access paratransit service, improving freedom and flexibility for riders with disabilities living in rural communities
Crossposted from Metro Matters Recently, King County Executive Shannon Braddock and Metro announced an improved customer experience for Access paratransit service customers and seniors, especially in rural communities, delivering on one of the key priorities in the Executive’s 200-Day Plan. People with disabilities who live in rural communities and use Access will have an easier time making reservations and enjoy improved on-time arrivals. There are also pilot programs that range from grocery delivery to same-day reservations. These services – alongside new in-person support for Access paratransit, Community Van, and Hopelink – will offer… Read More
As surging utility costs make housing less affordable throughout King County, Executive Braddock brings together partners to develop a more sustainable future
With household costs for utilities projected to rapidly increase each year for the next decade – making housing even less affordable than it is today – King County Executive Shannon Braddock and Sound Cities Association on Friday brought together more than 150 elected officials, regulators, and public works managers from throughout King County to develop a path that both protects the natural environment and reduces the burden on homeowners. A typical single-family household in King County currently pays an estimated $400 per month for utilities, including natural gas, electricity, solid waste, stormwater, sewer, and… Read More
Support Hurricane Melissa relief through the Annual Giving Drive
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, a devastating Category 5 storm that struck Jamaica and parts of the Caribbean, thousands of families are facing unimaginable loss. Homes, hospitals, and infrastructure have been destroyed. Many communities still remain without power, clean water, or access to basic necessities. Through the Annual Giving Drive, we have an opportunity to come together and support the nonprofits working tirelessly on the ground to provide emergency aid and long-term recovery. Here are the Employee Giving Program (EGP) nonprofits that are responding to Hurricane Melissa relief efforts. Read more. To see the full list and discover more, search online or review… Read More
Recognizing the service of Metro veterans
Crossposted from Metro Matters This Veterans Day, we recognized and thanked all of Metro’s military service members, past and present, for their service and sacrifice. Your continued commitment to public service strengthens our community. On Monday, Nov. 10, we held a ceremonial flag raising at one of our facilities honor the courage and dedication of veterans and their families. In addition to this ceremony, we’re also continuing our annual tradition of highlighting Metro colleagues who have served in the military. This year, I’m pleased to share the stories of four veterans —Nicholas Warren, Ruy… Read More
It’s the journey and the destination
Crossposted from Metro Matters While I lead transit communications and marketing in Washington state, my earliest public transportation journeys were nearly 5,000 miles away in my birthplace of London, England. As a toddler, my paternal grandmother—who exclusively took transit or walked—would take my sister and me on double-decker buses. I’d always ask to go upstairs. But my Granny, to avoid taking two small children up and down a windy staircase on a moving vehicle, creatively claimed that we couldn’t go up there because that’s where the bus driver lives. Read more.
How to apply for a permit to fix property damaged by storm, fire, earthquake or other natural disaster
Crossposted from King County Local Storm season is underway. For some in unincorporated King County, that means storm damage to property. The King County Department of Local Services Permitting Division reminds everyone that there are steps residents can take before a natural disaster occurs to help reduce property damage, including: Trim any potentially dangerous trees or branches Clean out all chimneys Winterize pipes Keep all potential sources of fuel, such as paper, clothing, bedding, curtains, or rugs at least three feet from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces. Assure all smoke detector and carbon… Read More
Supporting residents of unincorporated King County during the federal budget shutdown
Crossposted from King County Local Many families in unincorporated King County are facing an unexpected challenge: a lapse in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) payments due to the federal government shutdown. This disruption directly impacts food security for people—including children—who receive SNAP assistance. Neighborhood food banks and meal programs across the region are expected to see a surge in demand. King County Executive Shannon Braddock recently directed $200,000 in discretionary funding to support 15 food banks in the unincorporated areas, where King County serves as the local government. Read more.
In recognition of our veterans
As Veterans Day approaches, the Employee Giving Program (EGP) extends gratitude to all people that have served. This holiday honors all U.S. military veterans for their discipline, commitment, and sacrifice in service of our country. We hope to show appreciation for those who have served and support veterans long-term following their service. Here are a few EGP nonprofits that support veterans and their families. Read more. To see the full list and discover more search online or review the 2025 Giving Guide of nonprofits by service category. Start or renew your pledge through Employee Giving on… Read More
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