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Crowds pack Alki Beach in first major test of new safety measures

After years of complaints, the city agreed to sweeping changes to the park hours and vehicle access to address crime and street racing in West Seattle.

SEATTLE — On what turned out to be the hottest day of the year, big crowds packed Alki Beach in West Seattle on Wednesday, signaling the first major test of the park's new safety and security measures aimed at reducing crime and speeding drivers. 

On May 23, the City of Seattle implemented a series of changes after years of complaints and several incidents

"It is very obnoxious. Some of them are very bad about what they do, and make it very difficult to live in any one of these [apartments and condos]," said Kerry Tupper, who lives on Harbor Avenue.

Boulders were installed at the Don Armeni Boat Ramp in an attempt to limit reckless driving. 

The parking lot, which used to be open 24 hours, now closes at 10:30 p.m. with gates to keep vehicles out. As part of the city's plan, additional security is available to help close and clear parking lots, which are also routinely patrolled for violations.

"It has helped, the gates being closed. They show up and say, 'You're out of here,'" Tupper said.

Speed bumps have been installed along Harbor Avenue and Alki Avenue after several reports of drag racing along the beach.

"I do think what they've done has helped slow down traffic here," said Tupper. "Something had to be done to slow down what was happening, particularly late at night."

The city also reduced summer hours at Alki Beach and Golden Gardens, which both close at 10:30 p.m.

"I don't see why they close so early. They should leave it open overnight," a motorcyclist told KING 5. 

He and his friends gather in the parking lot before riding their motorcycles in the neighborhood; he said they're often cast as "bad guys" simply because their bikes make noise.

"We're not hurting anyone. Just cruising... minding to ourselves," he said. "We're not doing anything bad. Just chilling, honestly. Enjoying the hot weather."

According to the Seattle Police Department, overall crime is down about 50% in May and June this year compared to the same two months in 2024.

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