Hey, remember how the Viaduct is temporarily closing in two weeks? Remember how over 100,000 additional drivers will be on Seattle streets when that happens? Don't panic - Seattlest has the scoop on how you can get informed and avoid the worst of it. Like GI Joe says: knowing is half the battle.
Preparing for Carmaggedon: City, County Officials To Hold Open Houses on Viaduct Closure
Seattle May Vote On $60-$80 Vehicle Registration Fee
While King County's proposed $20-a-year licensing fee has been a very, very public debate topic this election cycle, another, larger licensing fee has been brewing in the city of Seattle. The City Council is considering putting a city car tab fee on the ballot to support transit improvements through the Seattle Transportation Benefit District, and this one is much larger: anywhere from $60-$80. $40 was proposed, but apparently will not raise enough money and is off the table. An $60-80 fee would double, or more than double, what drivers currently pay yearly when you factor in the $20 Seattle drivers just started paying, but would go to fund much-needed transit improvements. But living in a state with one of the most regressive tax structures in the nation, a lot of concern has been raised as to whether a fee this high goes too far. This is a pretty complicated issue. Good thing there's a public meeting tomorrow!
Thursday Morning Headlines
In today's ridiculously long morning headlines: the Space Needle pride flag, the City Council race, Gregoire signing a lot of things, how screwed we are in an earthquake (still), officer-involved shootings, and more. Plus, an adorable video of a lioness failing to eat an adorable human baby.

