Janice immigrated from Hong Kong to the United States when she was 10 years old.  She has both a Masters in Structural Engineering and in Public Administration from the University of Washington, and is the Chief Engineer for the Port of Seattle. In that role, she oversees the Port’s Major Public Works construction and workforce programs, along with design, safety and survey. 

Janice brings her many years of transportation, infrastructure, emergency management and public policy experience to the council. She is liaison on various transportation, education, disability and environmental boards and committees. Her local, regional and national knowledge is invaluable as our city and the region develops strategies and policies to ensure a thriving, resilient and sustainable Bellevue.

Janice served four years on the City of Bellevue Transportation Commission (the last year as Chair), where she helped shape the Commission’s review and recommendations regarding the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan, Vision Zero policy updates, the Pedestrian and Bicycle Implementation Initiative and Multi-modal level of service.  She also serves on several Transportation and Public Contracting committees at the State and National levels. She is current on the National League of Cities Board of Directors, where she advocates for federal policies that benefit Bellevue and our region. She is a graduate of Advance Bellevue, Leadership Eastside and the Leadership Tomorrow community programs.

Janice actively helps others, to engage, grow and prosper.  A mother of two daughters, Megan (24) and Leah (21), Janice has been engaged for several decades in serving Bellevue and the Eastside.  She has been a leader with the PTA, at Puesta del Sol Elementary and at the International School, serving various roles. She has also served as a Girl Scout leader for over 10 years, led PEPs groups for new parents, and volunteered with local organizations committed to children and families, homelessness and food insecurity. She is currently on the boards of The Sophia Way and Nourishing Networks, and an advisor to Seattle Chinese Radio and Chinese Institute of Engineers.

Janice remains committed to a thriving Bellevue for everyone. She serves our community and region every day with integrity, inclusion and innovation, to address the toughest challenges of transportation mobility, housing affordability, and inclusive engagement. All this while reducing environmental impacts. She attends as many diverse local and regional community events as she can, to better listen, learn and understand the issues facing our communities and our region.

Janice Zahn lives in the Greenwich Crest neighborhood with her husband of 33 years and her family. Her daughters proudly attended Bellevue School District's excellent schools. They are active members of the Aldersgate United Methodist church.