The Urbanist is gearing up for a series of important events throughout June and July, focused on housing advocacy and urbanism in Seattle and the Eastside.
On June 23rd, advocacy groups have a critical opportunity to voice their opinions on the Seattle Comprehensive Plan during the final public comment session before the city council’s summer recess.
This event marks a pivotal moment for residents who wish to influence Seattle’s growth and housing policies, especially after navigating neighborhood lawsuits and appeals that have delayed the planning process.
For those unfamiliar with public comment procedures, a special happy hour session is being organized by the Complete Communities Coalition on June 17th.
This event aims to prepare participants to effectively articulate their views during the city council meeting.
Attendees can look forward to engaging with fellow urbanists, housing advocates, and community members as they sharpen their skills in public speaking and advocacy.
The happy hour will be held at TeKu Tavern, located at 552 Denny Way, Seattle, from 6 PM to 8 PM.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to RSVP and prepare for the upcoming public comment session.
The public comment session for the Seattle Comprehensive Plan is scheduled for June 23rd at Seattle City Hall, providing a final platform for voices to be heard before the council takes its summer break.
The expectations are high for strong participation, as advocates hope to push for a growth-friendly comprehensive plan that meets the needs of the rapidly growing urban population.
The virtual comment session will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by in-person comments starting at 4 PM.
For ease of accessibility, the venue is conveniently located near several transit stops, making it easier for residents to attend.
On June 26th, The Urbanist is co-hosting a social gathering with Eastside Urbanism and Move Redmond, both pivotal groups focused on urbanist principles in their respective areas.
This casual gathering will take place at Jack Sprat Cafe at Verde Esterra Park in Redmond, from 6 PM to 8 PM, providing an opportunity for urbanists and transit advocates on the Eastside to network and exchange ideas.
Participants can engage in meaningful conversations about urban planning and advocacy efforts, fostering collaboration among different community stakeholders.
Looking ahead to July, The Urbanist is set to host an engaging panel discussion titled “Future of Urbanism on the Eastside” on July 6th.
This panel will feature candidates and elected officials from the surrounding Eastside municipalities, providing attendees with insights into the state of urbanism and growth strategies across cities like Woodinville, Newcastle, Bellevue, and more.
The panel discussion will take place at the Highland Community Center in Bellevue from 4 PM to 6 PM, with contributing editor Ryan Packer moderating.
Attendees will not only have the chance to hear from local leaders but also have the opportunity to submit questions in advance, ensuring that the dialogue is relevant to the community’s concerns.
Tickets for the event are limited and are being sold for $5, which will help cover venue costs.
For anyone keen to learn about recent developments relevant to urbanism on the Eastside, there are several topics worth exploring.
These include Bellevue City Council’s debates on housing density, Redmond’s growth patterns, Woodinville’s discussion around mandatory affordable housing, and Newcastle’s recent council decisions regarding environmental policies despite pushback from certain officials.
Furthermore, in related community engagement, Urbanist Shoreline is organizing a walking event on June 21st, an engaging opportunity to explore the area while discussing pedestrian infrastructure and urban design.
Participants should expect a leisurely 8-mile walk, allowing for exploration and conversation, ultimately culminating in a beach picnic.
This event is designed to be family-friendly and welcoming for community members of all ages, ensuring a diverse mix of participants.
The July panel, alongside the June public comments and social gatherings, represents significant efforts by urbanists to advocate for progressive housing policies in the context of rapid growth and urban development across the region.
As urbanists and community advocates come together, their united voices will contribute to shaping the future of housing and urbanism in Seattle and the Eastside.
Engagement in these events is crucial for residents who aspire to influence local governance, advocate for sustainable development, and promote a more inclusive approach to urban planning.
By participating in these gatherings and sharing their insights, citizens can help steer the direction of their communities for the better.
image source from：https://www.theurbanist.org/2025/06/08/join-the-urbanist-for-june-events-eastside-forum-on-july-6th/
