Building Permit Received; Project Moves Forward

The Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) has issued the building permit for construction of the new Alki Elementary school building. Seattle Public Schools (SPS) received the notification Tuesday, July 9, 2024, and construction will begin later this month.  

“We are pleased to be able to move forward with this important project,” said Richard Best, executive director of capital projects, planning, and facilities operations. “The new school is designed to position all students for academic success.”  

Permits issued previously allowed demolition of the old building and site work including installation of a large retaining wall.  

The existing gymnasium and the Seattle Parks department’s community center are being retained. Some improvements will be made to the structures such as a new gym floor and a new fire sprinkler system in the community center. 

Construction was delayed due to appeals regarding the number of parking spaces that would be provided. The approved design includes 15 onsite parking spaces. 

“Alki Elementary families have waited a long time for construction to begin,” said Best. “Now we can tell them that their new school will open in September 2026!”  

The new school building will provide a learning environment designed to meet the needs and support academic success for all students. The new Alki building will offer space for up to 500 students in kindergarten through grade 5, plus additional space for up to 42 preschool students.  

The entrance will face the city-owned park boulevard between the district’s property and Alki Playfield, enhancing connections to the community. Planning is in progress for the playfield, sports courts, and boulevard in partnership with the Seattle Parks Department. 

Sustainability 

The building design incorporates energy conservation measures to work toward SPS’s goals for clean energy and renewable resources.  

It includes highly efficient heating, fresh air ventilation, and daylight in classrooms and all student spaces. Cross-laminated timber will be used in construction, which helps reduce the building’s carbon footprint.  

Safety and Security 

For security, visitors will enter through the secure main entrance that directs people into the administration office to check in. School grounds will be surrounded by a fence, all exterior doors will be locked during the school day. 

This project is being paid for by the Building Excellence V Capital Levy (BEX V), which was approved by Seattle voters in 2019. 

More information and monthly updates can be found at www.seattleschools.org/alki-construction