Rainy Morning in Seattle, Transit Fare Hike, Amazon Hiring, Affordable Housing Opens, Kraken Fall to Stars

Good morning, this is Seattle Local Pulse for Tuesday, April 1, 2025. We're waking up to a wet start in the Emerald City, with heavy rain expected throughout the morning. The National Weather Service warns of potential thunderstorms later today, so keep those umbrellas handy. Despite the rain, temperatures will reach a mild 57 degrees. Breaking news this morning as the Seattle City Council has approved a controversial measure to increase public transit funding. The decision, made late last night, will raise bus fares by 50 cents starting next month. Council member Bob Kettle says the increase is necessary to support expanded service hours and new routes in underserved neighborhoods. In other news, tech giant Amazon has announced plans to add 1,500 new jobs to its Seattle headquarters over the next year. The company says it's looking for software engineers and data scientists, with salaries starting around $135,000. This comes as welcome news after recent layoffs in the tech sector. Over in the University District, residents are celebrating the grand opening of a new affordable housing complex. The 12-story building on 12th Avenue will provide homes for 200 low-income families and individuals. Mayor Bruce Harrell cut the ribbon this morning, calling it a "vital step in addressing our city's housing crisis." In sports, the Seattle Kraken fell to the Dallas Stars 3-1 last night at Climate Pledge Arena. Despite the loss, Kaapo Kakko scored his career-high 41st point of the season. The team hits the road for a three-game trip starting tomorrow. On a lighter note, the Woodland Park Zoo is welcoming a new addition to its family. A baby giraffe was born early this morning, and zookeepers say both mother and calf are doing well. The public will be able to see the newborn starting next week. In public safety news, Seattle police are investigating a shooting that occurred near 26th Avenue Southwest in West Seattle on Sunday night. Over 100 rounds were reportedly fired, but thankfully no injuries have been reported. Residents are urged to contact SPD with any information. Looking ahead to this weekend, don't forget about Seattle Restaurant Week kicking off on Friday. Over 200 local eateries will be offering special prix fixe menus, giving us all a chance to explore the city's diverse culinary scene. In transportation news, Amtrak is gradually restoring Cascades service after recent disruptions. Starting today, trains will resume running between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. However, seating will be limited, so book in advance if you're planning a trip. Lastly, a heartwarming story from Ballard, where local high school students have raised over $50,000 for children's cancer research through their annual dance marathon. The 24-hour event brought together hundreds of community members in a display of solidarity and hope. This has been Seattle Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.