With a seawall project that's over-budget and the state struggling to dig a tunnel to replace the viaduct, Seattle Mayor Ed Murray announced plans Monday to create a new city department to oversee the waterfront. In a Crosscut interview conducted by veteran journalist Bryan Johnson, Murray said the city has not had the expertise to deal with megaprojects.
The new Office of the Waterfront will include Ken Johnsen, known for managing the construction of Safeco Field. The Office will also include staff from the Department of Transportation, Department of Planning and Development, Seattle Parks and Seattle Public Utilities.
Johnson also asked Murray about the future of pensions for city employees, changes at the Seattle Police Department and the cost of living in Seattle. His biggest frustration been during his first six weeks in office? You'll just have to watch and find out.