Emil King, the new Community Development Department Director for Bellevue, shares insights from his two decades of service to the city. In an exclusive interview, he discusses the significance of community diversity, future planning challenges, and key priorities such as affordable housing and environmental sustainability.
Bellevue offers an array of beautiful trails and parks catering to nature enthusiasts, urban explorers, and backcountry adventurers alike. This guide highlights local favorites like Downtown Park Loop and Mercer Slough Nature Park, showcasing their unique features and accessibility. With summer in full swing, these outdoor spaces present perfect opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty.
A heat wave is forecasted for the Puget Sound region from July 7 to July 9, with temperatures expected to reach the upper 80s and into the 90s. The National Weather Service highlights health risks associated with extreme heat, especially for vulnerable populations, and the King County Regional Homelessness Authority has activated cooling centers. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and seek shade while enjoying local swimming facilities and parks.
The City of Bellevue is offering 700 free trees to residents and community organizations for the fourth consecutive year, with applications open until August 18, 2024. The initiative aims to improve tree equity and enhance the community's green spaces, with a variety of species available for selection. The giveaway event is scheduled for October 25 and 26, emphasizing the importance of trees for air quality and stormwater management.
Join us for the Bellevue Family 4th, the Eastside’s largest fireworks celebration, on July 4 from 5-10:30 p.m. at Downtown Park. Enjoy live music, diverse entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks display. Remember to use public transportation or carpool, as personal fireworks and alcohol are prohibited in the park.
The He(ART) of Bellevue feature highlights local artists at the Bellevue Downtown Arts Market, showcasing unique creations from Peggy Foy of Arcana Metalwork, Dan Johnson of Daniel Frank Johnson Photography, and Nicole Flood of Flood Clothing, among others. This event promotes the talents of over 110 artists, fostering community engagement and appreciation for local art.
Reality Break Escapes (RBE) in Bellevue offers an exciting escape room experience with four unique themes, perfect for friends, families, and corporate teams. The venue also features creative scavenger hunts that encourage participants to explore the city while solving puzzles. With a strong emphasis on customer service and a variety of activities, RBE is a standout entertainment option in downtown Bellevue.
The Bellevue Downtown Arts Market highlights the work of over 110 artists through the He(ART) of Bellevue spotlight series. This week features interviews with Aaron Reed Photography, Basket Crazy, and Buttered Soapery, showcasing their inspirations and connections to the Bellevue community.
The latest issue of It’s Your City highlights the expansion of Mini City Hall in Crossroads Bellevue, along with the launch of Sound Transit’s 2 Line and a more equitable tree giveaway. This resident newsletter, delivered three times a year, emphasizes community engagement and updates on significant local developments, aiming to enhance the quality of life for Bellevue residents.
Join the Bellevue Downtown Association for the Bellevue Downtown Arts Market from July 26-28, featuring over 110 local artists, food trucks, live music, and family-friendly art activities.
Fran's Chocolates, a cherished chocolate shop in Bellevue, reaffirms its dedication to the community and sustainable practices while celebrating its presence since 1982. Store manager Samantha Durst highlights the vibrant urban experience of downtown Bellevue and the significance of local partnerships.
The Bellevue Farmers Market features a diverse array of vendors providing seasonal fruits, vegetables, fresh flowers, meats, and artisan goods, reflecting the community's focus on local produce and sustainability. Established in 2013, the market serves as a vibrant hub for residents and visitors in Downtown Bellevue. With a commitment to promoting local businesses, the market enhances the cultural fabric of the region.
The Bellevue Farmers Market features a variety of local vendors offering seasonal fruits, vegetables, fresh flowers, meats, and artisan goods. It serves as a vibrant community hub in Downtown Bellevue, enhancing local culture and supporting local agriculture. The market is a key attraction for residents and visitors alike, promoting healthy eating and community engagement.
The Bellevue Farmers Market, running from May 23 to September 26, 2024, provides a vibrant marketplace for local farmers and artisans every Thursday. Located at Bellevue Presbyterian Church, the market supports small businesses and local non-profits, showcasing seasonal produce, flowers, meats, and artisan goods. Free parking and nearby bus routes make it accessible to urban residents.
Bellevue's electric rideshare service, BellHop, has transitioned from a pilot program to a permanent transportation option, showcasing the city's commitment to sustainable transit. Supported by partners like Amazon and the City of Bellevue, the service has saved over 62 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions since its launch. With extended service hours for morning commuters, BellHop enhances mobility and supports local businesses.
Coffeeholic House, a Vietnamese coffee shop in Downtown Bellevue, is transforming the local coffee scene with its unique offerings and community engagement. Founded by Chen and Trang, the café celebrates Vietnamese heritage through innovative drinks and partnerships with local businesses. With a recent expansion into delivery services, Coffeeholic House aims to make its delightful coffee experience accessible to more customers on the Eastside.
Eastrail is a transformative 42-mile project connecting communities in Washington's Eastside, promoting health, accessibility, and economic growth. With over $43 million in funding, developments like the historic Wilburton Trestle and new overcrossings are set to enhance connectivity and user experience by 2026.
Local performance group 'Living Voices' celebrated Juneteenth with a one-man show titled “Our Revolution,” which highlighted the perspective of a free Black colonist during the Revolutionary War. The event, held at Bellevue City Hall, underscored the historical contributions of African Americans and ongoing issues of equality, with attendance from city officials reflecting its community significance.
The Bellevue Collection is set to welcome several exciting new openings, including renowned brands like David Yurman and MOTO Pizza, enhancing the local shopping scene in Bellevue, Washington. With anticipated openings for summer 2024, these additions promise to offer diverse shopping experiences and unique culinary adventures for residents and visitors alike.
Bellden Cafe has launched a new 'Social Club' to strengthen community connections in Bellevue through cross-cultural and inter-generational events. The initiative promotes local diversity, donates event proceeds to non-profits, and ensures inclusivity for all, with scholarships available for those in need.