By Aaron Allen, The Seattle Medium
King County Executive Dow Constantine held his final State of the County address last week at Kerry Hall on Capitol Hill. looked back on his accomplishments over his 16 years tenure in office. Constantine, who took the opportunity to reflect on his challenges and accomplishments during his 16-year tenure as Count Executive, also talked about the opportunities that lie ahead for the next administration.
According to Constantine, his vision at the beginning of his administration in 2009 included being effective, accountable and responsive to the citizens he serves and a county that invested in transportation, prioritizing public safety, mental health, the health and well-being of the most vulnerable and partnering with other cities, businesses and labor unions to create employment opportunity”.
“At its heart, our work is about creating a high-functioning enterprise that delivers for the people who call this place home. We value the people we serve, and we value the public employees who devote their lives to serving the people — always staying focused on our True North in everything we do: Making Martin Luther King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive,” Constantine added.
During his address, Constantine highlighted a range of accomplishments across public safety, housing, transportation, and environmental conservation that have shaped King County under his leadership.
One of the administration’s most significant achievements has been the Crisis Care Centers initiative, designed to expand mental health and addiction services. The recently opened Connections Kirkland facility marks the first in a network of crisis centers that will grow to include four more locations, including one specifically for youth. These centers aim to provide essential care and reduce the burden on hospital emergency rooms and jails.
In public safety, Constantine launched Operation Safe Transit, a coordinated effort involving law enforcement and human services professionals. Deputies have made over 520 arrests as part of the initiative, while also connecting hundreds of people experiencing crises to behavioral health and housing assistance.
Addressing the region’s housing challenges has also been a priority. Under Constantine’s leadership, King County created over 3,800 units of affordable housing, with nearly 1,800 new homes completed last year for families, seniors, and veterans. In addition, the Health Through Housing program has acquired 1,400 supportive housing units across 11 buildings in Auburn, Burien, Redmond, Renton, and Seattle. Three more buildings are set to open this year in Federal Way, Kirkland, and Capitol Hill.
Environmental conservation has been another cornerstone of Constantine’s administration. The Land Conservation Initiative protected 30,000 acres of forests, farmland, river corridors, and urban greenspace, ensuring the preservation of critical ecosystems. Additionally, major restoration efforts along the Green, Cedar, and Duwamish Rivers restored 500 acres of fish and wildlife habitat, while providing flood protection for communities.
Notably, Constantine celebrated the resurgence of the kokanee salmon population. After facing near extinction with only 19 kokanees returning to spawn in 2018, more than 8,000 returned last season — a success attributed to focused conservation and habitat restoration efforts.
The county also made strides in combating climate change. The Re+ Zero-Waste Initiative reduced carbon emissions while the transition to electric vehicles and Metro’s electric bus fleet expanded sustainable transportation options. High-wage green jobs were created as part of the county’s push to ready communities for climate impacts, including extreme heat and wildfires.
In transportation, Constantine oversaw the launch of eight Metro RapidRide routes, with four more in development. The light rail network also expanded significantly, growing to 62 miles of track with 51 stations. Milestones like the opening of EastLink and extending light rail into Snohomish County were highlighted as part of the county’s evolving transit infrastructure.
To further enhance public safety, the number of transit security officers was more than doubled to 175, with an additional 20 commissioned transit police officers expected to join soon.
Reflecting on these accomplishments, Constantine thanked King County residents for their trust and participation in building a stronger, more equitable community. He emphasized that the work ahead remains critical, but the county is well-positioned for continued progress.
“Your trust, engagement, and commitment to building a stronger, more just community and a better future have made progress possible,” Constantine said. “The work ahead is as critical as ever. I know the next chapter will unfold on the solid foundation we built.”
Concluding his address, Constantine expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve as King County Executive for the past 16 years.
“I am honored to have served as executive of one of the largest and most forward-thinking regions in the country,” he said. “To the people of King County, thank you.”
Source: Seattle Medium
