Your trusted source for local Bellevue, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Bellevue Essentials, a civic engagement course, accepts applications for its fall 2025 cohort until July 23. The program runs from September 10 to November 12 and aims to educate residents on city government operations and community involvement. Tuition is $150, with fee waivers available for eligible participants.
Bellevue Police arrested three teenagers for street racing and eluding law enforcement this week, amid a 163% rise in speeding citations compared to last year. The arrests occurred during a citywide speeding emphasis following a fatal crash on May 2 that involved a speeding motorcyclist.
The City of Bellevue ranked #22 in North America for its vehicle fleet by the National Association of Fleet Administrators, the highest ranking in Washington state. The ranking acknowledges Bellevue's commitment to environmental responsibility through the use of electric vehicles and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Bellevue will host the 12th annual Lake to Lake Bike Ride on June 14, offering routes for cyclists of all skill levels. Participants can choose from a nine-mile family-friendly loop, a more challenging 24-mile route, or a free ride for kids in the park. This event encourages community engagement and promotes cycling as a healthy lifestyle.
Kirkland residents express concern over a planned homeless hotel after learning that a felon with 57 prior arrest warrants was living in a similar facility in Bellevue. The situation raises fears about safety and the potential for crime in their community. Neighbors are actively voicing their apprehensions to local officials.
Kirkland residents express safety concerns over a planned homeless hotel, citing a surge in crime linked to a similar facility in Bellevue. King County aims to convert the La Quinta Inn into homeless housing operated by Plymouth Housing, which has faced criticism from locals fearing increased crime, especially near schools.
Bellevue City Council discussed the Wilburton Transit-Oriented Development land use code amendment and introduced the Safe Speeds Bellevue program to improve street safety. The program aims to reduce speed limits on streets with current limits of 30 mph or more, where nearly 90% of serious crashes occur. Council action on these initiatives will occur in future meetings.
Public health officials confirmed a sixth measles case in Washington involving a King County adult who was infectious at Seattle-Tacoma Airport and Overlake Medical Center. The individual's vaccination status is unknown, and they likely contracted the virus during international travel. Authorities urge those who may have been exposed to verify their vaccination status and consult healthcare providers if symptoms arise.
Bellevue voters express confidence in the city's direction while prioritizing affordability, safety, and smart growth, according to the 2025 VIBe Survey. Conducted in May with 400 participants, the survey shows affordability has become the top concern, rising to 29% from the previous year. Residents also emphasize the importance of effective transportation and public safety measures.
Bellevue City Council reviewed proposed land use code amendments to support middle housing development, as mandated by recent state legislation. The council also discussed the expansion of Meydenbauer Bay Park, which aims to improve pedestrian access and connectivity to downtown. A federal legislative agenda was approved, prioritizing transportation, infrastructure, and housing.