HomeMy WebLinkAboutWS 2024-07-15 COMPLETE AGENDA PACKETTukwila City Council Agenda
❖ WORK SESSION ❖
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Thomas McLeod, Mayor Councilmembers: ❖ De'Sean Quinn ❖ Tosh Sharp
Marty Wine, Interim City Administrator ❖ Armen Papyan ❖ Jovita McConnell
Mohamed Abdi, Council President ❖ Dennis Martinez ❖ Hannah Hedrick
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Monday, July 15, 2024; 5:30 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PUBLIC COMMENT
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3. BUSINESS ITEMS
2023-2024 Tukwila Comprehensive Plan Update: Review of
Individual Elements.
Pg.1
4. ADJOURNMENT
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City of Tukwila
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: City Council
FROM: Nora Gierloff, AICP, Department of Community Development, Director
BY: Nancy Eklund, AICP, Long Range Planning Supervisor
Neil Tabor, AICP, Senior Planner
CC: Mayor McLeod
DATE: July 15, 2024
SUBJECT: 2023-2024 Tukwila Comprehensive Plan Update — Review of
Individual Elements (#1 of 2)
ISSUE
This is a discussion focusing on six of the eleven elements in the City's draft Comprehensive
Plan (plus the Comprehensive Plan introduction chapter, element background reports where
needed, and implementation strategies for each element).
BACKGROUND
Staff has recently provided two introductory presentations on the 2024 updates proposed for the
City's Comprehensive Plan. These revisions include updates of information no longer current,
modification of policies to reflect new state and local policy requirements, and consolidation and
streamlining of elements and policies to reduce the large size of the Plan. Every element in the
Comprehensive Plan has been updated.
The documents to be discussed at this Work Session include the Plan introduction and six Plan
elements (Appendix A) which include a descriptive narrative of the element topics and their
Goals and Policies. The more detailed background reports for some elements are available on
the City's website at this link. The information in this memo describes the elements, their
purpose, how they may have been changed with the 2024 update, and a sample of some of
their associated implementation strategies. The documents are numbered below in the
sequence they will appear in the Comprehensive Plan.
Attachment B provides a listing of the implementation strategies intended to bring the Plan
policies to life. Some strategies have been correlated to a specific policy (e.g., 5.1.4 — fifth goal,
first policy, fourth strategy); some strategies may be supportive of numerous policies, in which
case, they will be identified as follows: 5.(1-3).4, meaning the strategy supports the fifth goal,
policies 1 through 3, and is the fourth strategy to support those policies.
Some maps from the 2015 Plan are still provided in this draft, however, it is staff's intention to
replace those maps with a common, updated format. Some of the maps that have been
prepared for Plan elements are available to review in Attachment C. In addition, new graphics,
photographs, and text sections needing further work will be integrated into the draft plan before
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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completion; in some elements, these graphics and explanatory text insets are shown in an
orange text.
DISCUSSION
This discussion addresses the following Plan Elements:
0. INTRODUCTION
a. Purpose: The Introduction sets the stage for the Comprehensive Plan: the legal
framework for Comprehensive Plans; the Growth Management Act and how it
requires coordination with local and regional planning efforts; and the focus of the
King County Countywide Planning Policies and the Puget Sound Regional Council's
Vision 2050. This Element discusses what topical areas are addressed in the Plan,
and how the City's Vision was developed and what is in that vision. The chapter
notes that other City and external agency plans provide input on the plan, And that
there are implementation strategies that will guide actions to fulfill those policies.
b. Changes since the 2015 Plan: The Introduction provides updated information on new
legislative, and local policy guidance that has being incorporated into this Plan
Update. The Vision for the Plan is largely the same since the 2015 Plan was
adopted.
c. Background Report: The Introduction does not have a background report.
d. Implementation Strategies: The Introduction does not have Implementation
Strategies.
1. COMMUNITY CHARACTER
a. Purpose: The Community Character Element identifies the framework for the City's
physical, social, and cultural environment. In addition to describing the physical
characteristics of the City, it notes the cultural influences and conditions existing in
Tukwila. In also describes the built environment and infrastructure present, and the
interaction of those improvements with City priorities to support the health and
identify of the City. The Element discusses how City elected and appointed officials,
as well as City Staff can advocate for the City's priorities within the region.
b. Changes since the 2015 Plan: As noted in a previous meeting with the City Council,
the Community Character Element was developed by consolidating the content of
several previous Plan elements (Community Image and Identify, Roles and
Responsibilities, and Residential Neighborhoods, primarily). During that
consolidation, goals and policies that were redundant, out of date, or not consistent
with current guidance were removed to enhance readability and ensure agency
compliance.
c. Background Report: The Community Character element does not have a background
report.
d. Implementation Strategies: Sample Implementation Strategies address: community
design; Tukwila's relationship to its past, present, and future — historic preservation,
celebration of cultural diversity, emphasis on facilitating that Tukwila is a healthy,
inclusive, and safe community for all, and that the City government supports and
advocates for Tukwila's priorities within the region.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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Example Goal, Policy and Implementation Strategy:
Goal 5: The Tukwila community is proud of its cultural diversity, distinctive
identity, and unique character
Policy 5.6: Enhance linkages with the school districts serving Tukwila to
recognize and support the strengths of Tukwila's multi-lingual
student body
Implementation Strategy 5.6.1: Continue and enhance the relationship with the
school districts serving Tukwila through classroom visits,
partnerships, internships, and scholarship programs.
2. LAND USE
This element will be discussed at a future City Council Work Session.
3. REGIONAL CENTERS
a. Purpose: The Regional Centers Element provides a vision for the City's two Puget
Sound Regional Center (PSRC) designated centers, the Southcenter Regional
Growth Center (RGC) and Manufacturing and Industrial Center (MIC). The regional
policies that guide urban centers is discussed, as well as the City's goals and
policies that will ensure the continued development and growth of the two centers.
b. Changes since the 2015 Plan: Relative to the Regional Centers Element, the main
difference between the 2015 Plan and the 2024 Plan is that the two elements
addressing centers (Southcenter — Tukwila's Urban Center and the MIC) have been
consolidated into one element. The policy direction for the two centers is largely the
same.
c. Background Report: The background analysis that was developed when the City
recommitted to having the Centers as they are currently defined has not changed
since the 2015 Plan. In 2025, the City will be required to recertify the Regional
Centers, per PSRC requirements. Staff will ensure that any changes needed with
recertification of Regional Centers are consistent with other comprehensive plan
policies.
d. Implementation Strategies: The Regional Center's Element includes implementation
strategies that address land use and urban development policies in the Southcenter
Urban Center. Strategies for the Manufacturing Industrial Center address how the
City can simplify permit processing, protect the MIC land resource and Duwamish
River, while improving transportation flow in the area, and protecting nearby
communities from negative health impacts of the MIC. As noted in previous
elements, the Plan's implementation strategies again address ensuring that
intergovernmental coordination with neighboring jurisdictions optimizes development
in the MIC.
Example Goal, Policy and Implementation Strategy:
Goal 1: Land Use: Southcenter will contain an intense, diverse mix of
uses, which will evolve over time. The character and pace of this
change will be set by a combination of guidelines, regulations,
incentives, market conditions, and proactive private/public actions,
which will reinforce existing strengths and open new opportunities.
The desire for a high -quality environment for workers, visitors and
residents will also drive this character transition
Policy 1.4: Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) Residential Uses. To provide
a diverse set of housing alternatives and locations, a large
percentage of the City's future housing needs will be
accommodated in the urban center. Residential development is
especially encouraged in proximity to water amenities or within
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station or
the bus transit center, subject to design standards and incentives.
Implementation Strategy 1.4.1: Update development standards to align with
market forces.
4. HOUSING
This element will be discussed at a future City Council Work Session.
5. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
a. Purpose: The Economic Development Element guides the execution and
implementation of the City's Vision for the economy. The Element discusses
strategies to actualize the desired economic vision and provides metrics for future
evaluation and modification of policies and implementation strategies based on
progress observed.
b. Changes since the 2015 Plan: The Economic Development Element was
reorganized to align with the Economic Development Strategy, using the same five
goals in both documents, and to better reflect updated policy requirements at the
state, regional and county level. Main areas of updates in policy requirements
include ensuring that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) populations
are integrated into the economic success of the community, middle wage jobs and
job training are fostered, and long-term economic resiliency is built through fostering
broad economic opportunities for businesses.
c. Background Report: The Economic Development element does not have a
background report but is aligned with the Economic Development Strategy presented
to Council in November 2023.
d. Implementation Strategies: Sample Implementation Strategies address: economic
resiliency; community image, fostering a supportive business environment, and
economic property.
Example Goal, Policy and Implementation Strategy:
Goal 3: Prosperity and opportunity for businesses, workers, and residents.
Policy 3.5: Facilitate connections between employers and education and
workforce development institutions, seeking to increase
graduation rates and develop a highly educated and skilled local
workforce. Align and prioritize workforce development efforts with
Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color communities;
immigrant and refugees; and other marginalized communities.
Implementation Strategy 3.5.1: Explore organizing an event series to connect high
school counselors and teachers to local industry representatives
in high -growth and / or target sectors, such as biotech, media arts,
and others.
6. NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
a. Purpose: The Natural Environment Element addresses the City's natural
environment — air, land, and water resources. This information guides where and
how development can occur within Tukwila, and it identifies the natural elements that
sustain the quality of life in the City. The natural environment and its associated
ecological processes provide many benefits to Tukwila, including: visual relief from
the constructed built environment; fish and wildlife habitat; air and water quality;
surface water runoff management; recreational opportunities for interaction with
nature; human health; and aesthetic and economic benefits. The Growth
Management Act requires that cities inventory their natural environments, and
establish goals and policies describing how they intend to protect and manage
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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environmentally critical areas such as wetlands, watercourses, springs, fish and
wildlife habitat areas, and geologically hazardous areas.
b. Changes since the 2015 Plan: The structure of the 2024 Natural Environment
Element is very similar to the 2015 Element. Many of the changes proposed relate to
new state of the art approaches and best management practices developed in recent
years. Goals and policies have been recommended to better position the City to be
resilient to the economic and physical impacts of climate change.
c. Background Report: This document addresses the Federal, State, and regional
regulatory guidance that shapes City environmental policies, as well as presents
information about the general characteristics of the Tukwila natural environment
(e.g., watercourses, wetlands, critical habit areas, air quality, tree canopy, flooding
issues, etc.).
d. Implementation Strategies: Strategies recommend that the City actively implement
programs that protect City's riparian areas, and wetlands and their buffers from
impacts that degrade natural stream areas and the habitats they support. Other
strategies support education of, and outreach to, the community to enlist their
assistance in protecting and cultivating the special natural areas valued so much by
the community.
Example Goal,
Goal 7:
Policy 7.1:
Implementation
7.1.1:
7.1.2:
7.1.3
7.1.4
7.1.5
Policy and Implementation Strategy:
Surface water generated by urban development does not exceed
pre -development discharge rates.
Require that all proposed development applications identify
hydrologic features, both on- and off -site, that could be impacted
by the project. Evaluate and prevent project impacts on on -site
and off -site floodplains, wetlands, drainage features and springs to
avoid adverse impacts to existing environmentally critical area
hydrology to meet today's climate needs and prepare for future
climate needs.
Strategies:
Implement water quality testing, as required under the City's new
National Pollutant Discharge System permit and develop action
plans for identifying and eliminating sources of pollution when
problems are identified.
Set up internal procedures for evaluating development projects to
ensure no adverse impacts to wetland or stream hydrology and no
net loss of ecological function.
Provide training resources and written educational information on
low -impact development (LID) techniques, their benefits, and
methods for implementation to developers, contractors, and other
interested parties. City staff and City officials.
Actively seek out grants and other funding opportunities to
implement new or upgrade existing surface water systems, protect
existing water sources from sources of pollution and create action
plans for the City's water resources that have the potential to be
impacted by climate change.
Work with local climate professionals to gather information and
develop reports on how the City of Tukwila will be directly
impacted by climate change.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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7. SHORELINE ELEMENT
a. Purpose: The Shoreline Element discusses the areas within Tukwila that are subject
to the State Shoreline Management Act (SMA), what the SMA is, and how it applies
to the City through its Shoreline Master Program (SMP). It defines how the City's
shorelines are classified (designated) and how the city and state shoreline goals and
policies apply in those areas and throughout the City's shoreline jurisdiction.
b. Changes since the 2015 Plan: The Shoreline Element is updated and approved
through a process directed by the Washington Department of Ecology (DOE). In
2020, the City updated the SMP goals, policies, and regulations. At that time, the
Shoreline element in the Comprehensive Plan should have been adjusted to reflect
the new guidance. There are, however, some inconsistencies between the City's
DOE -adopted SMP and what the City considers its current Shoreline element. Those
inconsistencies, as well as some corrections of information that has become
inaccurate after several years, and minor changes that the City supports, are shown
in the element provided to Council. Staff is reaching out to Ecology staff to determine
if these inconsistencies, corrections, and minor content changes would be
acceptable to modify with the 2024 Comprehensive Plan update. We hope to have a
response by the time of the public hearing.
c. Background Report: The City's Shoreline Master Program serves as the background
report for the shoreline element.
d. Implementation Strategies: Implementation strategies for the Shoreline element were
developed using a different format than the rest of the Comprehensive Plan. They
suggest that implementation of the SMP policies is realized through the
administration of regulations and plans that guide shoreline protection, rather than
specific actions. This approach is approved by DOE and has not been proposed for
modification for the update.
Example Goal, Policy and Implementation Strategy/Strategies:
Goal 2: Expanded value of the river as a community and regional
resource, through regional coordination of shoreline management
programs and through programs that foster river appreciation and
awareness, involving partnerships among businesses, schools,
residents and government and community organizations.
Policy 2.3: Promote and participate in the implementation of the Watershed
Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9 Plan, including supporting the
recommended projects located in Tukwila to improve the habitat
functions of the Green/Duwamish River, as well as the Plan's
policies and goals.
Implementation Strategies:
2. (1-3).1
2.(1-3).2
2.(1-3).3
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan
Tukwila SMP Restoration Plan
King County Flood Hazard Management Plan
8. PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE
a. Purpose: The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) element provides a
summary of the existing PROS facilities in the City, including those that are
regionally managed. The element also references the many programs and services
offered through the Parks Department and the intergovernmental coordination
necessary to support that effort. The PROS element seeks to address issues such
as providing places and facilities that are: safe and family -friendly; affordable to a
wide spectrum of the Tukwila community; and celebrate the City's cultural heritage.
The PROS element highlights the priority to ensure that facilities are convenient to
residents, support adjacent land uses, provide the opportunity for park users to have
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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a close interaction with nature, and continue to expand parks and increased the
amount of open space.
b. Changes since the 2015 Plan: The 2024 PROS Element is based on the work
completed for the City's adopted 2020 Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS)
Plan. That document summarized the extensive community outreach that was
completed to analyze the City's Park infrastructure and to identify and opportunities
for better serving community needs. These plans are referenced in the PROS
element.
The goals and policies in the PROS element tightly parallel the goals and policies in
the adopted 2020 PROS Plan. Where there are new policies, these were added to
comply with King County Countywide Planning Policies (CPPs). The CPPs require
that Cities ensure that they commit to providing services and facilities equitably to all
community members.
c. Background Report: As noted above, the PROS Plan adopted in 2020 provides the
foundation for the PROS Element of the City's Comprehensive Plan. The majority of
information about the City's parks, recreation, and open space program is found in
that document, however, the Comprehensive Plan Background document provides a
summary of the existing conditions and needs assessment for the PROS element.
d. Implementation Strategies: The PROS Implementation Strategies cover a wide
variety of facility and program issues, including the need for a safe, convenient and
connected system of park facilities and recreational open spaces. The intent of the
implementation strategies is to further a sense of community in Tukwila, to ensure
that opportunities are affordable and available to all, and that they encourage the
health residents, and the community as a whole.
Example Goal, Policy and Implementation Strategy/Strategies:
Goal 3: A Sense of Community - Tukwila's parks and recreation
opportunities build community cohesion by providing places and
programs for social interaction and gatherings of all sizes, with
designs that strengthen community identity.
Policy 3.2: Hold community events that encourage interaction between
neighbors and celebrate the diversity of Tukwila.
Implementation Strategy 3.2.1: Increase access to places for social gathering in
identified focus areas of the Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Plan.
9. TRANSPORTION
This element will be discussed at a future City Council Work Session.
10. UTILITIES
This element will be discussed at a future City Council Work Session.
11. CAPITAL FACILITIES
This element will be discussed at a future City Council Work Session.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Consideration of this information will have no financial impact on the City.
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff has no recommendations for actions on any of the attachments.
ATTACHMENTS
• Attachment A — Comprehensive Plan Components
o Introduction
o Community Character:
o Regional Centers
o Economic Development
o Natural Environment
o Shoreline
o Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
• Attachment B — Implementation Strategies for Elements discussed
• Attachment C — Updated Maps to be Placed in Draft Plan at Later Date
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DRAFT
.iNtl'GdNCt%GN
The City of Tukwila (City) Comprehensive Plan is a 20-year plan that articulates the
community's vision and values about how it will grow into the future. The goals, policies
and implementation strategies included in this Plan provide a basis for the City's
regulations and guide future decision -making. The Plan also addresses anticipated
population, housing, and employment growth, and how facilities and services will be
maintained or improved to accommodate expected growth between now and the year
2044.
The purpose of the City of Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan is to provide a comprehensive
statement of City goals and policies to focus, direct, and coordinate the efforts of
departments within the City's government. It serves as a basic source of reference for
decision -making officials as they consider enacting ordinances or regulations that will
affect the community's physical and economic development. The Comprehensive Plan
communicates to the public and City staff the policies of the City Council, and it provides
predictability to public and private sectors interested in the City of Tukwila.
The Comprehensive Plan is designed to be:
• Comprehensive in addressing all the geographic and functional elements relevant
to the community's physical development.
• General in summarizing the major policies and proposals of the City, but not
defining specific locations or establishing detailed regulation -- except for in the
City's designated Regional Growth Centers and subareas.
• Long Range in looking beyond the current issues facing the City, but also
anticipating issues that will likely occur in the future.
Why Plan?
Tukwila's future is built on the conditions of yesterday and today and looks down the road
to changes that may occur in the future. The Comprehensive Plan is for all people in
Tukwila, including residents, the business community, and visitors. People need a safe
and secure place to live, an economy that provides jobs, ways to get around, schools and
recreational opportunities. It is the local government's responsibility to provide public
services and facilities, develop policies, and adopt regulations to guide the growth of a city
that meets the needs of its people both now and in the future.
Introduction
July 2024
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DRAFT
What is a Comprehensive Plan?
A comprehensive plan is a broad statement of community goals and policies that direct
the orderly and coordinated physical development of a city into the future. It is designed to
be a readable, functional document that reflects current community goals and needs,
anticipates change, and provides specific guidance for future legislative and
administrative actions. It reflects the results of public involvement, technical analysis, and
the judgment of decision makers.
The goals, policies, and maps in this
Comprehensive Plan provide the guide for
designating the use of land, implementing
flexible regulations, investing in infrastructure,
and developing programs and services. The
elements of this Comprehensive Plan address
every aspect of the community - social,
economic, and environmental. Each element
consists of goals, policies, and implementation
strategies.
Readers and users of this Comprehensive Plan
should bear in mind four important points:
• The policies articulated in the Plan are
the foundation for decision making and
represent the City's official position.
• The goals and policies presented in this
plan were developed in response to the
community conditions identified in the
background reports, and the Vision
identified for the community. Links to background reports and other foundational
resources are listed in this document.
• Policies are not applied in isolation, but are weighed in relation to other relevant
policies, and considered within the context of the goal they are intended to achieve.
• Implementation strategies listed in the Plan elements provide direction on how
the Plan's policies will be acted upon by the city and community. The strategies
note which city department/s or outside group/s is responsible for the action and on
what timeline. Not all policies include implementation strategies, and some
strategies may support multiple policies. Within five years of Plan adoption, the
City will report back to King County and the Puget Sound Regional Council on how
well it did in completing the short term strategies (i.e., those identified as being
completed within 5 years) to which it committed.
•
TERMS
Vision: A community's best desired
future.
Goals are broad statements of
community aspiration related to an
element;
Policies are specific statements of the
community's position on particular
issues to guide land use review,
development decisions, and operational
programs that will be pursued in
achieving goals; and
Implementation strategies are the
approaches staff will use to implement
policies, as well as how and when the
actions will be undertaken.
Regulation: A rule or directive found in
City ordinances or the municipal code.
See Exhibit XX illustrating the relationship
of goals, policies, regulations
(development rules), and programs, and
project review for development.
Comprehensive Plan Amendments
Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan is an evolving document and will be periodically reviewed
and revised over the next 20 years as better information becomes available and public
Introduction
July 2024
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DRAFT
attitudes, development technologies, and economic forces and legislative policy change
over time. The GMA limits Comprehensive Plan amendments to no more than once per
calendar year, except for certain exemptions and emergency actions. Whenever the plan is
amended it is important to verify that it is "internally consistent" and that development
regulations are consistent with implementing the comprehensive plan.
THE PLANNING FRAMEWORK
Growth Management Act
Washington State's Growth Management Act (GMA) of 1990 and 1991 provides a managed
framework for growth and development throughout the State. Among other things, it
mandates that fast-growing counties and cities must develop and maintain a
comprehensive plan — covering the subsequent 20 years — that incorporates a number of
specific elements.
GROWTH MANAGEMENT ACT
GOALS
• Urban growth
• Reduce sprawl
• Transportation
• Housing
• Economic development
• Property rights
• Permits
• Natural resource industries
• Open space and recreation
• Environment
• Citizen participation and
coordination
• Public facilities and services
• Historic preservation
GMA BASICS: PLANNING PYRAMID
State- Grov.Kl7 Mane
Multi-coun
King County— Countywide plainiig Policies
Tukwila Comprehensive Plan
Tukwila development Rules
Project Review
A major emphasis of the GMA is the coordination and consistency of local, regional, and
State planning efforts. This includes consistency with adopted multi -county planning
policies, including VISION 2050, and Countywide planning policies.
One of the most important characteristics of the Growth Management Act (GMA) and the
Comprehensive Plan is concurrency. Concurrency is the requirement that a jurisdiction
must have infrastructure and facilities (i.e., transportation, sewer, water, police, fire,
stormwater, schools, and parks and recreation) in place at the time, or within six years of,
a development. This requirement can have a significant impact on the pace and type of
development in the City, particularly areas of the City which require significant
infrastructure improvements to accommodate new growth. If the City or a developer
Introduction
July 2024
I - 3
13
DRAFT
cannot provide adequate facilities as described, then the development may not occur, and
the vision described in the Comprehensive Plan should be reevaluated. Similarly, the City
must identify sources of funding and commit those funds to support capital facility
projects it has identified in its six -year Capital Facilities plan, adopted by reference into the
Comprehensive Plan.
Tukwila Snapshot
Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Washington State Office of
Financial Management, Puget Sound Regional Council, and other
sources, a snapshot of the Tukwila's population has been developed:
■ Tukwila, incorporated on June 23, 1908, is a non -charter, optional
code city operating under a Mayor -Council form of government,
which includes a full-time Mayor, seven -member City Council
elected at large, and a City Administrator. All elected -official terms
are fora period of four years.
■ Tukwila is located in the heart of the Puget Sound region,
approximately 12 miles south of downtown Seattle, 17 miles north of
Tacoma, and just east of Seattle -Tacoma International airport.
■ Tukwila is 9.2 square miles in size (2020), with a population of 2,373
persons per square mile.
■ Tukwila has an estimated population of 22,780 in 2023 and had an
estimated employment of around 45,825 in 2022. Between 2018 and
2022, more than 82 percent of those 25 years and older reported
being a high school graduate, and 26 percent had a bachelor's
degree or higher.
■ Tukwila is an increasingly diverse city, with more than 69 percent of
its population identifying as nonwhite in 2023, and 40 percent born
outside of the United States or Puerto Rico. Approximately 47
percent of the residents speak a language other than English at
home.
• As of 2023, Tukwila had estimated 8,098 households with an average
of 2.64 persons per household.
■ Tukwila's 2023 median household income was $76,331, and the
Census Bureau estimates that 13.3 percent of the City's residents
live in poverty.
■ In 2023, 18 percent of the population was under 18 years old, and 11
percent were over 65 years old.
■ Business Tukwila has more than 2,000 businesses, which comprise
over 40,000 jobs. Businesses cover multiple sectors with
concentrations in retail, manufacturing, services, and distribution
and specialties in entertainment and aerospace.
■ Between 2018 and 2022, 72 percent of the population age 16 and up
participated in the civilian labor force.
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DRAFT
King County Countywide Planning Policies / Vision 2050
Tukwila is located within King County. The King County Growth Management Planning
Council (GMPC) has adopted a series of Countywide Planning Policies (CPPs) that provide
guidelines and requirements for the 39 cities within the County in implementing the
Growth Management Act mandates. The policies are adopted by the King County Council,
and subsequently ratified by the County's cities. Taken together, the CPPs try to balance
issues related to growth, economics, land use, and the environment. CPP objectives
These requirements include:
• Providing a fair share of housing affordable to all segments of the population at a
variety of densities and at varying income levels through investment in needed
infrastructure and modification of land use regulations.
• Designating an Urban Growth Boundary that can accommodate at least 20 years of
new population and employment and, where appropriate, Urban Centers of
concentrated population and employment.
• Providing all King County residents with a more equitable future that offers access to
housing, transportation, education, employment choices, and open space amenities,
regardless of race, social or economic status.
• Designing efficient multimodal transportation systems that are based on local and
regional priorities.
• Shaping sustainable communities by integrating sustainable development and
business practices, including environmental justice principles, with ecological, social,
and economic concerns.
• Ensuring that public facilities and services necessary to support development are
adequate for growth without decreasing levels of service below local standards.
• Designating Manufacturing/Industrial Centers to protect industrial and other high
wage jobs they provide.
• Identifying, establishing, and protecting open space; access to natural resource
lands and water; parks and recreation facilities; and fish and wildlife corridors of
regional significance.
In addition to the GMA and CPPs, Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan is guided by the
multicounty policies of Vision 2050, the regional plan developed by the Puget Sound
Regional Council (PSRC). Vision 2050 is an integrated, long-range vision for maintaining a
healthy region by promoting the well-being of people and communities, economic vitality,
and a healthy environment. It contains an environmental framework, a regional growth
strategy, and policy sections that are guided by overarching goals, implementation
actions, and measures to monitor progress. The Tukwila Comprehensive Plan must be
certified by PSRC as being consistent with Vision 2050 to be eligible to apply for and
receive regional transportation funding.
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DRAFT
WHAT IS IN A PLAN?
Comprehensive Plan Elements
Comprehensive plans are required by the GMA in RCW 36.70a.070 to address specific
required issues, or "elements." In addition, a city may include other elements as local
needs and goals dictate. Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan is made up of 11 elements, seven
of which are mandated by the GMA. The mandated elements include the following:
• Land Use • Transportation
• Housing • Economic Development
• Capital Facilities • Parks, Recreation and Open
• Utilities Space
Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan also includes the following optional elements identified as
important to this community:
• Community Character • Shoreline
• Natural Environment • Regional Centers
HOW WAS THE PLAN DEVELOPED?
Over the years, the City has conducted extensive outreach to shape the creation and
periodic updates of its Comprehensive Plan. This outreach has guided many of the local
planning documents that serve as the foundation for the City's Comprehensive Plan.
1992 - Comprehensive Plan Visioning— "Tukwila Tomorrow"
In 1992, a 17-member advisory committee composed of residents, business
representatives and property owners began to work with ideas gathered from an earlier
"Vision Tukwila" community visioning process. The community vision and ideas for
achieving that emerged were discussed with the Planning Commission and City Council
and were ultimately refined into the basis of the Comprehensive Plan.
The Comprehensive Plan has been kept current with specific annual updates, as well as
through a more comprehensive review in 2004, a phased review from 2011 through 2015,
and the update process that is developing the 2024 to 2044 horizon Plan.
In addition, other local planning efforts have contributed to the community's guidance for
the Comprehensive Plan.
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DRAFT
2012 - Tukwila Strategic Plan
The City Council developed a City Strategic Plan to provide a process for moving from the
Comprehensive Plan's long range (10- to 20-year) goals and policies to more specific short-
term initiatives and actions. The strategic process examined a number is considerations:
Where are we now?
• Who makes up the community and how is the population changing?
• What are the major businesses and the City's role in the regional economy?
• What are the City's greatest strengths and challenges?
Where do we want to go?
• What is the Community vision for the future of Tukwila?
• What do City residents want the community to be like in the future?
How do we get there?
• What actions and investments are necessary to make the vision a reality?
• What timeline is feasible for accomplishing the City's goals and priorities?
• How can the City and community best serve the needs of Tukwila's diverse
community, including residents, businesses and visitors?
BUILDING A LOCAL
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Plan I
Rev
em tation,
on, Moni ing
Plan Adoption
it� /Identify Action Steps - Policies
yoNye
t�`
J
fi Land Use Map and UGA
Develop Goals and Policies
Qo
"i
• o
Inventory Assessment - Assets and Deficits
Land capacity analysis, CA identification, CFassessment
Visioning Process - Begin with the end in mind
Population Projections (CWPP)
The 2012 City Strategic Plan established a Vision for Tukwila - "The City of Opportunity, the
Community of Choice" - that included five aspirational goals:
Goal One:
Goal Two:
Goal Three:
Goal Four:
Goal Five:
A Community of Inviting Neighborhoods & Vibrant Business
Districts
A Solid Foundation for All Tukwila Residents
A Diverse & Regionally Competitive Economy
A High -Performing & Effective Organization
A Positive Community Identity & Image
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DRAFT
In 2018, the City conducted an extensive outreach effort to determine if the Plan still
reflected community priorities and values. The update identified improvements that had
been completed over the years as well as opportunities for ongoing progress, which were
incorporated into the updated Strategic Plan.
Items needing ongoing attention: Community input identified that the City still had work
to do to improve safety and project a positive image. The primary item needing work
was ensuring that Tukwila residents can get basic needs, especially affordable housing.
In addition, the community stated Tukwila should ensure that there are opportunities
for community outreach and engagement.'
Is the 2012 Plan still valid? How should the City Prioritize its budget? Generally,
constituents agreed with the vision, mission, goals and objectives identified in the 2012
Strategic Plan, and supported the City continuing to work toward the aspirational vision
of being "The City of Opportunity, the Community of Choice."
What changes should be made in the Plan — what is missing? The community and staff
identified the following important items that were missing from the Strategic Plan:
1. Equity, particularly with regard to race
2. Addressing gentrification and displacement
3. Health and environmental health
4. Infrastructure
5. Technology and innovation
2015 and 2024 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Updates
Over the years the City has reached out to all residents, employees, and property owners in
Tukwila about the Comprehensive Plan process and encouraged them to participate. The
City has used a variety of approaches to encourage engagement over the years, including
all -city mailings, the Hazelnut newsletter, and information posted to the City website. For
some topics the City formed advisory committees or conducted video interviews with
residents, businesses, and other stakeholders to provide guidance on new policy
directions. In addition, staff has held informal open houses where residents, property
owners, and business representatives could review changes and provide input on the Plan.
Ultimately, the plan is reviewed at public hearings with the Planning Commission and City
Council.
During the 2015 update, the City used trained community liaisons to reach out to different
language groups to conduct surveys and hold "Community Conversations" meetings in
multiple languages. In early 2023, the City received a limited amount of state funding to use
for outreach to community -based organizations around the topic of housing. Staff
conducted interviews with affordable housing developers, realtors, and City elected,
appointed, and community leaders to talk about City planning issues, with special focus on
housing type options and affordability, as well as conducted Open Houses. Translation
services have been provided at Community meetings and the Comprehensive Plan Update
webpage has offered text and surveys in numerous languages. The input from these
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DRAFT
engagement events and activities has been folded into the goals and policies identified in
the 2024-2044 Comprehensive Plan.
Environmental Review
With its original Comprehensive Plan, Tukwila prepared an Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS). Over the years, as the Plan has been updated, the EIS has been updated as
well. Through the environmental review public participation process, the City has solicited
review and discussion of the Comprehensive Plan with neighboring jurisdictions and
affected agencies.
TUKWILA'S VISION
The vision for the community, which was articulated by the community in multiple
community engagement opportunities, emerge from the community's core values — respect
for the past and present, compassion and support for individuals and families, pride of
place, and quality opportunities for working, living and community involvement. This vision,
discussed in the following section, provides the foundation for the Goals of this
Comprehensive Plan, described in each element of the Plan.
RESPECT FOR THE PAST AND PRESENT
■ TUKWILA WAS, AND WILL CONTINUE AS, A REGIONAL CROSSROADS
Puget Sound is a part of a larger area that has been the traditional aboriginal territory of
the Coast Salish peoples, who live around the Salish Sea in what is now Washington
State and the Canadian province of British Columbia. The Coast Salish Tribes have lived
here since time immemorial and while each tribe is unique, all share in a deep historical
connection and legacy of respect for the land and its natural resources. These
sovereign tribal nations enrich the region through environmental stewardship, cultural
heritage, and economic development. The Duwamish and Muckleshoot Tribes bring
their perspectives to collaborate with Tukwila to shape the region's future.
Given its central location and convenient access to many modes of transportation
Tukwila will continue to be at a strategic crossroads. First the Duwamish River, then the
Interurban railroad, and later major highways have provided transportation access —
first, for native Americans drawn to the river's fish, then for 19`h- and early 20`h- century
immigrants who harvested the timber and established farms, and now for people who
conduct business, shop, visit, or live in this urban area.
Modern methods of transportation such as Link Light Rail and bus rapid transit are
important attractors for new investment and should serve our residents while
connecting local and regional travelers and the region.
■ WE HONOR THE PASTAS WE MOVE TOWARD THE FUTURE
Our present institutions and housing, businesses, and public infrastructure facilities
have resulted from the efforts of many people to pursue their individual and collective
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DRAFT
dreams. We honor this past and seek to preserve and enhance our community and
environment by dreaming, planning, and investing in our future. We support cultural
preservation programs and activities that draw on the strengths of long-term residents
and families who provide a direct connection with the past.
COMPASSION AND SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
■ WE SUPPORT OUR RESIDENTS
We seek to maintain each neighborhood fairly and equitably so that individuals and
families can thrive and reach out to their neighbors. We value the diversity of our
residents; however, the rising cost of housing threatens the ability of people to remain
in their communities. The housing market has experienced great highs and lows. This
has benefitted some, while creating and exacerbating hardship and inequalities for
others. There are substantial disparities in housing access between white and person of
color households, underscoring the ongoing effects of systemic racism in housing. This
update of the plan will focus on approaches the community can use to address the
ongoing housing crisis and the issues of equity in how housing and city resources are
distributed.
We encourage home ownership, and support both owners and renters in maintaining
and improving their homes. Research has shown that people of color are less likely to
secure a home loan and have significantly lower rates of homeownership compared to
white households. In accordance with GMA amendment HB 1220 this update will
examine racially disparate impacts, displacement, and exclusion in local housing
policies. We cooperate with residents to improve neighborhood infrastructure. We
encourage neighborhood pride and interaction.
■ WE SUPPORT OUR FAMILIES
We support our families so they can thrive as caretakers for all family members,
including elders. We encourage their efforts to be self-supporting, engaged,
responsible members of our community. We seek opportunities to protect our
residents from crime, accidents, and illness.
■ WE SUPPORT OUR CHILDREN
Our children are our future. We honor them. We protect them from harmful influences
and will provide educational, recreational, and other opportunities that enable them to
become healthy, educated, responsible adults.
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PRIDE OF PLACE
• WE VALUE OUR ENVIRONMENT
We seek to enable our residents to appreciate, participate in and enjoy the many
benefits of a healthy, thriving natural environment. We seek to protect our shoreline,
streams, wetlands, and other natural amenities, such as trees, to provide habitat for
our native species of plants and animals. We support wise use of existing resources
and a transition to renewable resources to improve climate resilience and adapt to the
ongoing effects of climate change. We acknowledge the disproportionate impacts of
extreme weather, flooding, and wildfires due to climate change on our vulnerable
populations.
• WE APPRECIATE OUR SURROUNDINGS
Each distinctive residential neighborhood, commercial area, and manufacturing area
contributes to our wholesome living and working experience. We seek to create a
natural environment, a physical infrastructure, and a community image that prompts
people to respect and care for each other, and which attracts newcomers to live, do
business, shop in, visit, and enjoy the special features of the City. People who arrive
here want to stay here and invest their time and resources in making the community a
better place.
QUALITY OPPORTUNITIES FOR WORKING, LIVING, AND COMMUNITY
INVOLVEMENT
• THRIVING AND RESPONSIBLE BUSINESSES
We support a stable, thriving economy that provides quality work experiences and
income, and generates revenue for public services. We cooperate with our business
community and seek to attract new businesses by supporting their development and
necessary infrastructure. In return, we expect them to maintain high standards and
participate in attaining our community vision.
• RESPONSIVE GOVERNMENT THAT RESPECTS INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS
We value all our residents. We respect the rights of our residents, workers, property
owners, and visitors to pursue their individual and collective visions, provided that their
actions respect the same rights of others. We strive to limit government regulations to
those necessary to protect the rights of present and future generations and to achieve
our community goals. We encourage all members of the community to become actively
involved in community affairs, and we provide opportunities for participation in the
decisions that affect them.
• WE SEEK TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS
We believe that while individuals bear primary responsibility for themselves, their
communities perform a vital role in providing a positive environment, support, and
growth opportunities. We also acknowledge the legacy of legal racial, ethnic, and
gender discrimination that has limited the opportunities available to segments of our
community. We believe that, in addition to City provided social services, many
opportunities and services are best provided by non -profits, private businesses and
voluntary organizations. We encourage these efforts, partner with organizations that
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help meet the basic needs of our residents, and support Tukwila's active spirit of
volunteerism. We encourage the social and civic engagement of all community
residents who are a tremendous resource and have much to contribute.
We pay special attention to those whose opportunities have been, and continue to be,
limited by circumstances they cannot control, and use our limited resources to develop
a solid foundation for all Tukwila residents.
PLAN OBJECTIVES
As discussed, Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan essential function is to serve the residents
and business community by providing guidelines for a safe, livable, environmentally
sustainable, and economically viable community with which they are proud to identify. The
Plan, based on its Vision for the Future of Tukwila, provides the framework that allows
Tukwila to respond dynamically to the changes that are inevitable over the immediate long
term.
The Plan's goals and policies contribute to shaping the major emphases of this periodic
Plan update:
• To Identify opportunities to increase housing type availability and affordability for
Tukwila's community, today and tomorrow.
• To ensure that City processes address historic racial disparities in the prioritization
of how resources are spent and City processes conducted.
• To focus future housing and job development in the City's two regional growth
centers, Southcenter and the Manufacturing Industrial Center, while also focusing
on other opportunities for growth in transit -oriented development areas within the
City.
• To encourage and pursue opportunities for preparing the City, its infrastructure, and
community for the environmental and social changes that will come with increased
climate change.
• To build the City's relationship with all quadrants of the community, including
community -based organizations, the business community, and residents, and
strive to provide the highest level of governmental services and responsiveness.
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COMPREHENSIVE PLAN MAP
The Growth Management Act requires that the Plan be internally consistent, and that all
elements be consistent with the future land use map. Tukwila's Future Land Use Map,
located in the Land Use element, meets State requirements to identify locations for the
following land uses: housing, commerce, industry, recreation, open space, public utilities,
and public facilities.2 The Future Land Use map sets forth the categories of allowable land
uses and densities for the purpose of directing future development and redevelopment of
private and public property in the City. It is implemented in large part through the City's
official Zoning Map, which is a regulatory tool. The Comprehensive Future Land Use Map is
available at the City of Tukwila Department of Community Development and online.
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
Adopting an updated Comprehensive Plan is the first step toward adjusting and maintaining
the City's vision. The Plan is implemented through policies and strategies listed in the
Elements, as well as through adopted functional and special plans, and service programs
and funding priorities established by the City.
Tukwila's implementation program comprises a combination of short-term, mid-term, long-
term, and ongoing actions that contribute to the City achieving its vision. Actions identified
as "short term" would require up to 5 years, "mid-term" actions require up to 10 years,
"long term" actions require up to 15 years, and "ongoing" actions would be progressively
worked on over the years. A short-term action could include implementing a Citywide
communications plan including language translation strategies to reach and involve all
residents. Other implementing actions could include amending regulations such as the
Zoning Code to align with newly developed policies and State regulations. Longer -term
actions include sub -area planning, facility development, and developing a Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) that allocates resources to projects that will spur the City's
development in the direction envisioned in the Plan.
Other actions will be taken by the City when required or as resources become available. A
successful Plan is one that can respond to changing conditions. As changes in land uses,
regional trends, or the economic or environmental climate occur over time, it may be
necessary to reassess or modify how to implement the community's vision. The
Comprehensive Plan contains the policy wording that provides for monitoring, evaluating,
and amending the plan as community needs change. Comprehensive Plans are allowed to
be modified and updated annually between major updates cycles that occur each decade.
The City will also be obligated to report back to PSRC and King County on the success it has
had (or not had) with implementing its strategies.
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DRAFT
City Plans
Many City departments have adopted functional plans that serve to implement the vision,
policies, principles, and guidelines set forth in the Comprehensive plan. Typically,
functional plans are more wide reaching, but there is a range of more specific plans that
also support the Comprehensive Plan's vision. Examples of some of the City's plans
include:
• ADA Transition Plan, 2016
• Capital Improvement Program, 2023-2024
• Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP), every 5 years
• ComprehensiveSanitary Sewer Plan Update, 2023
• Comprehensive Water Plan Update - 2015, 2022
• Economic Development Strategy
• Green Tukwila 20-Year Stewardship Plan
• King County Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2020-2025
• Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program: Top-10 Recommended NTCP Projects),
2022
• Older Adults Recreational Services Needs Assessment, 2019
• Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan, 2020 (and Technical Supplement, 2019)
• Public Arts & Culture Master Plan, 2018
• Public Facilities Plan, underway in 2023
•
• Recreation Program Plan, underway in 2023
• Residential Streets Prioritization program, 2016
• Shoreline Master Program, 2020
• Shoreline Restoration Plan, 2007
• Stormwater Management Program Plan - 2015
• Stormwater Pollution Protection Plan, underway in 2023
• Surface Water Comprehensive Plan - 2013
• Transit -Oriented Development Housing Strategies Plan, a.k.a., Housing Action Plan,
2021
• Transportation Plan, 2024
In addition, there are numerous site -specific City plans that the community has developed
that reflect the Comprehensive Plan priorities, including:
• Community Center Business Plan, underway
• Tukwila International Boulevard District Plan
• Tukwila South Plan
• Southcenter Plans
• Manufacturing and Industrial Center Plan
• Teen & Senior Center Project
• Tukwila Pond Park Master Plan, 2022
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External Agency Plans
External agencies have also developed plans, in conjunction with Tukwila, that implement
local and regional priorities. These agencies include King County and the Tukwila and other
School Districts with facilities in City limits:
■ King County Water Resources Inventory Area 9
■ King County Flood Control District Lower Green River Flood Hazard Management
plan
■ King County Flood Hazard Management Plan
■ Highline Water District Pan
■ King County Water District #125 Plan
■ King County Water District #20 Plan
■ Valley View Sewer District Plan
■ City of Seattle Plans for Water and Sewer Service
■ Etc.
1 Changes in 2024-2044 Comprehensive Plan Update
In preparing the 2024-2044 Plan, several changes were made to the 2015 Plan. In addition to ensuring
the Plan was up-to-date, changes were made to increase the Plan's readability, ensure that it was
consistent with state and regional requirements, and to remove repetition and unnecessary verbiage.
These changes are intended to increase the Plan's utility to elected officials, staff, the business
community, and the public. Some of the changes included:
• Land Use: The City has not previously had a stand-alone Land Use Element and provided the
GMA-required information in several different elements. To provide data that focuses on parts of
Tukwila within the context of the entire city, a single element has been developed. The new Land
Use element includes information from these elements: Tukwila South, Tukwila International
Blvd, Residential Neighborhoods, and Roles and Responsibilities.
• Residential Neighborhoods: Housing -related information from this element has been
consolidated into the Housing element, and the Community Character element.
• Southcenter and Manufacturing Industrial Center: these two elements focus on the City's PSRC-
designated Regional Centers; they have been collapsed into one new "Regional Centers"
Element.
• Roles and Responsibilities: This element has been eliminated and its content consolidated into
the newly named Community Character element (formerly the Community Image and Identity
element). The Community Character element will also include information from the Residential
Neighborhoods element.
2 Based on inventories, the Countywide Plan, and public input, it was deemed unnecessary for Tukwila to provide
designated agricultural lands or natural resource lands.
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Commatiity CaarActer
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER:
• A basic framework that celebrates Tukwila's history, builds on its diversity, and
fosters civic engagement while accommodating growth that furthers the
community's vision;
• A discussion of issues that shape Tukwila's identity and describe the community's
vision for safety and security, healthy living, communication, and public
engagement;
• Goals and policies for promoting the positive community character envisioned; and
• Goals, policies, and strategies to achieve a stronger community and expand
regional opportunities
PURPOSE
The Community Character element establishes the framework that celebrates the City's
history and environment — both physical and social. The community's character reflects
both the values placed on the views of Mt. Rainier, the Cascades, and the Green/Duwamish
River system, but also the social values surrounding the community's diversity and vision
for compassion and support, governmental responsiveness, civic engagement, and the
components that are essential to making Tukwila a safe, secure, successful, forward -
looking community.
ISSUES
Tukwila is an economically and geographically unique community. It has a large proportion
and expanse of commercial and industrial activity compared to the amount of residential
development.
It is divided into distinct areas by freeways and crisscrossing arterials, with the
Green/Duwamish River winding throughout the entire length of the City. The hillsides and
valleys in the area further split the City into numerous, almost disconnected segments.
Local streets and major arterials do not follow a predictable grid pattern. Large industrial
and commercial developments, together with associated parking, tend to dominate the
City's landscape when seen from freeways and major arterials. This persists as the overall
image of the City despite the community's many areas of quiet residential streets and
abundant vegetation. This geology also contributes to a sense of division between
neighborhoods, resulting in the challenge of developing solutions that serve all the
residents.
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Spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Cascade Mountains and even the Seattle skyline
are available from many hillsides around the City. In addition, numerous streets run along
the hillsides and afford sweeping vistas of land and greenery. And finally, the
Green/Duwamish River and Tukwila Pond could serve as prominent and dramatic elements
of the community's image and identity. The potential of these two natural features as
unique amenities has yet to be fully realized.
Despite the region's wealth and the ongoing investments in public and human services,
inequity persists and has in some cases expanded. Historical data has consistently
revealed disparities in social, educational, health and economic outcomes based on race,
income, and other factors. Tukwila's community, similar to other South King County cities,
has experienced lower incomes, less educational attainment, higher rates of chronic
disease and morbidity, and a higher percentage of residents needing human services
assistance.
Tukwila's high numbers of immigrants, refugees and their children may struggle as they
seek employment or services or when in the classroom, trying to learn English while
receiving limited support for their home language and culture. Long-time residents,
including minorities, seniors, adults, and families, may face challenges in meeting basic
needs.
Historic Preservation and Cultural Awareness
While Tukwila has a rich history that has involved farming, the river, rail transportation and
the development of the aircraft industry, there are few visible indications of its earlier days.
With the exception of the Museum of Flight, the Duwamish Hill Preserve and some
interpretive markers along the Green/Duwamish River, there are no explanations or
celebrations of the major features of the community's heritage, such as the Interurban rail
line. Only a few places are given any degree of commemoration with respect to their role in
the history and growth of Tukwila.
Due to Tukwila's location on the Green/Duwamish River, the area has been home to many
Native American settlements and plays an important role in local Native American culture.
Development along certain portions of the river has exposed artifacts from the days when
Native Americans travelled the river and camped along its banks. These artifacts require
protection from future development, and improved interpretation so that the public can
appreciate their origin and significance. The Muckleshoot Tribe continues to be actively
involved in preserving and improving the habitat quality of the Green/Duwamish River.
Native American Culture and Settlement in Tukwila Area
This section will be completed before the plan is finalized.
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Cultural Diversity
Tukwila's demographics have changed significantly in the nearly 30 years since the original
Comprehensive Plan was adopted. Similar to changes seen throughout all South King
County, Tukwila has become home to a diverse mix of people from many backgrounds and
countries. Our challenge is to create a community where residents — including both the
long-term and the recently -arrived, with varied backgrounds, traditions, languages, and
countries of origin —feel connected and committed to each other, their neighborhoods,
their community groups and organizations, and to the City as a whole.
Many people feel involved in their own piece of Tukwila, be it a block, a neighborhood, a
business park or a particular linguistic, cultural or interest group. In planning for the whole
community, Tukwila has sought to ensure that its planning efforts provide a shared sense of
belonging and involvement in Tukwila as a whole. To achieve that, the City has conducted
culturally appropriate and language -specific approaches to encourage participation in City
planning efforts that include the development of the City's Strategic Plan (2012), as well as
the City's Comprehensive Plan.
City Boundaries
There is little sense of entering or leaving either the community as a whole or individual
neighborhoods, because in many areas the City limits are irregular or do not coincide with
natural boundaries. In addition, Tukwila's growth through petitioned annexations has
created certain boundary anomalies:
• The border configuration between Tukwila and Seattle in the King County Airport
area, in which the boundary crosses Interstate 5 more than once and splits certain
industrial properties, creates a number of jurisdictional issues, including police
response.
• On the southwest, the boundary between Tukwila and SeaTac crosses Interstate 5
and other streets in several places, creating difficulties for the reasonable provision
of services. With major expansion largely ended, there is an opportunity to make
Tukwila's size and extent more visible by providing identifiable boundary markers.
Commercial Development, Urban Design, and Safety
Previous planning strategies noted that residents and businesses want a safe and visually
attractive community. The design of residential and commercial development is key to
accomplishing this goal. Visually attractive development occurs through the application of
design criteria that are functional, attractive, and safe. Safe and visually attractive
communities are also achieved through the enforcement of existing standards.
City planning and investment in infrastructure promotes safe, attractive neighborhoods and
business districts, and supports and enhances Tukwila's position as a major shopping and
employment center. Areas of focus include making the City more accessible for bicyclists
and walkers, and engaging residents and businesses in setting expectations for how
Tukwila's public and private spaces will look.
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DRAFT
Perceived or actual lack of safety and security can hinder both individual and community
development and feelings of well-being. The City continues to seek opportunities to
collaborate with the whole community to reduce and prevent crime and enhance the
overall sense of safety and security.
Security also extends to emergency planning for natural and man-made emergency events,
such as earthquakes, terrorism, or the effects of climate change. The City anticipates and
has planned for these types of situations through efforts such as its Comprehensive
Emergency Management Plan, and Continuity of Operations Plan. Strategies that enhance
public safety and security will ultimately strengthen the community.
Healthy Living and Parks, Recreation and Open Space
The urban form — including the infrastructure and built environment — affects the health of
residents and workers, as well as the overall community identity. The proximity of trails,
sidewalks for safe walking, transit connections to reduce the use of single -occupant
vehicles that contribute to air pollution, the availability of recreation programs, and access
to healthy and affordable food choices all contribute to the health of a community.
The importance of providing healthy living choices is reflected throughout the
Comprehensive Plan especially in this element, as well as in the Parks, Recreation and
Open Space, Economic Development, and Transportation elements.
In the past, community members have consistently expressed their desire for better access
to recreational opportunities, safer routes to schools for children, and better access to
affordable, good quality food, including fresh fruits and vegetables. The U.S. Department of
Agriculture identified Tukwila ad "food desert," based on its definition that Tukwila's low-
income census tracts show a significant number of residents are located more than one
mile from the nearest supermarket.
Expanding access to healthy food and providing job training opportunities is an important
City goal. The City will continue to seek out opportunities to ensure that community
members have access to hands-on vocational training that provides the opportunity to
become better integrated into local communities and economies.
Community Image
Tukwila's image, as perceived within the community and region and portrayed by the
media, is often at odds with its many positive attributes. The City faces challenges in
shifting negative perceptions about public safety and crime to create and communicate an
image that better reflects reality, engages residents, and attracts visitors and businesses.
Communication and Involvement
Meetings at City Hall, printed mailings and website articles often have been used to inform
citizens about issues and events and solicit their opinions and involvement in City affairs.
Community Character CC - 4
July 2024
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DRAFT
While these methods are effective with some people, a broader approach is necessary to
communicate to the full community. Some Tukwila residents may choose to be involved in
City activities, while others may not be involved or represented due to cultural differences,
language issues, age, economic status, or lack of time or awareness. Diverse communities
may require the use of new methods of communication and engagement.
City processes and regulations that seem confusing and difficult for the public may present
an additional obstacle to clear communication and engagement between the community
and the City. A key challenge is developing communication tools that are clear, effective,
and appropriate, so that all residents are aware of and can choose to participate in the
processes and decisions that affect them. Communication within and across City
departments is crucial for developing a coordinated approach to problem -solving.
Regional Opportunity and Role
Many issues that the City faces are not exclusive to Tukwila and are prevalent throughout
the region. City representatives participating in various regional forums can both drive and
support policy and strategy that benefits Tukwila. The City's activities in regional
partnerships can help it achieve its long-term goals.
For example, the City's Human Services program has long engaged with other cities and
King County to craft more efficient ways to plan and deliver services and provide strategic
direction about how the County allocates funds for housing and community development.
Emergency Management staff participate in multiple regional planning efforts, including
maintaining the Regional Coordination Framework so that resources can be shared
between jurisdictions and efficiencies gained. Community Development staff are involved
with inter -jurisdictional groups to analyze, develop, and share data, policies, and
standards. Participation by elected officials in local, regional, Statewide, and national
organizations provides many benefits, including education on emerging issues and forging
valuable partnerships.
GOALS AND POLICIES
Overall Community Design
GOAL 1
POLICIES
Policy CC-1.1
A community of inviting neighborhoods and vibrant business
districts that are visually attractive, draw visitors, add value to
the community and encourage people to walk, bike and use
transit.'
Encourage the creation of locations and facilities where residents of all
ages and cultures can gather for activities and events, such as public
markets, parades, and festivals, including those that are representative
of the City's diverse population.2
Community Character CC - 5
July 2024
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DRAFT
Policy CC-1.2
Policy CC-1.3
Policy CC-1.4
Policy CC-1.5
Policy CC-1.6
GOAL 2
Policy CC-2.1
Policy CC-2.2
Policy CC-2.3
Policy CC-2.4
Policy CC-2.5
Capitalize on the potential that public projects, arts, and cultural
facilities have for serving as symbols of the community, catalyzing local
development, and contributing to a unique sense of place within a
neighborhood.'
Expand the system of incentives, tools, and supports that encourage
investment in and maintenance of private and public spaces.'
Encourage placemaking through creative use of signage, art, landmark
designation and improvement, and streetscape improvements.'
Require that sites have adequate lighting and are designed using crime -
reduction principles to increase safety.
Seek opportunities to integrate public art into public improvements.
Design streets to create a cohesive network, including
continuous non -motorized improvements that connect to the
surrounding business and residential neighborhoods and
enhance the visual quality of the community.
Where appropriate and feasible, provide lighting, seating, landscaping,
and other amenities for sidewalks, walkways, and trails.
Provide street lighting where needed and appropriate based on
neighborhood context to improve visibility and safety while minimizing
light/glare spillover.
Maintain, improve, and expand distinctive gateway features located at
freeway off -ramps and at City limit lines where they cross major arterial
streets; use graphics, orientation maps, informational signage, lighting,
specimen trees, plantings with seasonal color, artwork, monument
forms, or combinations thereof.
Promote the planting of street trees and other landscaping standards to
enhance corridor appearance, neighborhood identification and
streetscape unity.
Where possible, encourage developments to include pedestrian
weather protection, see -through glass, and distinctive rooflines in new
and redeveloped building facades.
Community Character CC - 6
July 2024
32
DRAFT
Tukwila's Past, Present, and Future
GOAL 3
POLICIES
Policy CC-3.1
Policy CC-3.2
GOAL 4
POLICIES
Paleontological and archaeological artifacts and sites with
cultural and Native American significance are protected and
preserved.'
Ensure that the potential for the existence of paleontological and
archaeological sites is considered during development of new
construction projects.'
Identify and protect archaeological resources and culturally significant
sites and develop interpretive information that fosters public
appreciation of historical traditions and practices.'
A heritage conserved and interpreted so that Tukwila's citizens
recognize connections with the past and celebrate the diverse
cultures represented in the community today.10
Policy CC-4.1 Identify, protect, and designate historically significant properties,
structures and sites."
Policy CC-4.2 Provide prominent public art and interpretive markers that celebrate the
City's history of important buildings, sites, events or persons.'Z
Policy CC-4.3 Establish a process for providing incentives for the preservation and
reuse of historic landmarks.13
Policy CC-4.4 Develop and implement plans, projects, and programs to protect and
promote the historical legacy of the Green River Valley and its natural and
built environment.14
Policy CC-4.5
The Tukwila Arts Commission shall ensure that Tukwila's
characteristics, such as its history and cultural diversity, are considered
in public art projects.15
GOAL 5 The Tukwila community is proud of its cultural diversity,
distinctive identity, and unique character.16
Community Character CC - 7
July 2024
33
DRAFT
POLICIES
Policy CC-5.1 City staff and leaders seek opportunities to generate positive media
coverage of the community and its attributes."
Policy CC-5.2 Promote Tukwila's international diversity as a strength.'$
Policy CC-5.3 Actively promote community engagement of all sectors of the City's
diverse population using a wide range of innovative methods responsive
to variety of communication requirements.19
Policy CC-5.4 Encourage and support communities in celebrating, preserving, and
transmitting their traditions through cultural and heritage activities and
education.20
Policy CC-5.5 Develop programs and City-wide events to celebrate the City's cultural
diversity.21
Policy CC-5.6 Enhance linkages with the school districts serving Tukwila to recognize
and support the strengths of Tukwila's multi-lingual student body.22
GOAL 6
POLICIES
Policy CC-6.1
Policy CC-6.2
A healthy community where active living and access to
affordable, culturally appropriate, and nutritious food is
available to all.23
Encourage the development of public, private and non-profit
partnerships to support the goal of healthy eating and active living,
including education and awareness.24
Develop and implement a communication plan and Healthy Tukwila
website with information and links about healthy eating, active living,
and related topics — including strategies for reaching communities who
do not speak English or use computers (e.g., translated written as well
as verbal).25
Policy CC-6.3 Provide healthy and culturally appropriate food and beverages in City
programs and facilities to promote healthy eating habits.26
GOAL 7 Food security, local food production and public health are
promoted.27
Community Character CC - 8
July 2024
34
DRAFT
POLICIES
Policy CC-7.1 Explore incentives or regulatory changes to encourage location of
healthy food purveyors in underserved areas.28 29
Policy CC-7.2
Support the Tukwila Food Pantry and other organizations that help
provide food assistance to low-income residents so that all families,
seniors, schools, and community— based organizations are able to
access, purchase and increase intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and
other nutritious foods. 30
Tukwila Government - Service to the Community
GOAL 8
POLICIES
Provide a high -performing, service- and results -oriented
government that works with citizens, citizens groups,
institutions, and service providers to recognize and solve
problems within the community.31
Policy CC-8.1 Implement the human services strategic approach and program to
support a solid foundation for all Tukwila residents, by providing high -
quality services and actively collaborating with service providers to help
meet basic needs and job readiness, including:
• Safety net for urgent and basic needs,
• Positive and healthy relationships,
• Support for self-sufficiency, and
• Information referral.32
Policy Change recommended in comment received at Public Hearing (from Tukwila
Human Services Department)
Policy CC-8.1
Support Implement the City's human services strategic approach anc
program in providing to support a solid foundation for all Tukwila
residents through by providing high -quality services and actively
collaborating with service providers to help meet basic needs and job
readiness, including:
• Safety net for urgent and basic needs,
• Positive and healthy relationships,
• Support for self-sufficiency, and
• Information referral (and system navigation).33
Policy CC-8.2 Enhance and encourage effective partnerships across City departments
and with providers to meet community needs.34
Community Character
July 2024
CC-9
35
DRAFT
Policy CC-8.3
Policy CC-8.4
Policy CC-8.5
Policy CC-8.6
Policy CC-8.7
POLICIES
Ensure that land use, urban design, transportation, economic
development, and other policies, plans and projects in Tukwila consider
human services impacts, and benefit existing and future populations in
an equitable manner.35
Promote health, safety, and quality of life through responsive and
responsible investment of public funds in social and human services.36
Enable culturally and linguistically appropriate equitable access to
programs and services and help connect residents to service options,
particularly for those most disproportionately cost -burdened or
historically excluded.37
Adopt and use an equity impact review tool when developing plans and
policies to test for outcomes that might adversely impact Black,
Indigenous, and People of Color communities; immigrants and
refugees; people with low incomes; people with disabilities; and
communities with language access needs. Regularly assess the impact
of policies and programs to identify actual outcomes and adapt as
needed to achieve intended goals.38
Involve community groups especially immigrant, Black, Indigenous, and
People of Color communities continuously in planning processes to
promote civic engagement, government accountability, transparency,
and personal agency.39
Communication and Engagement
Policy CC-8.8 Use frequent and open communication and collaboration as an
operating principle in all affairs of the City.40 41
Policy CC-8.9 Design and implement processes and programs to be user-friendly for
the public and efficient for City staff.42
Policy CC-8.10 Strengthen the City's ability to engage with diverse populations within
the community, particularly those that do not participate in traditional
formats, by using a variety of participation techniques to reach all
segments of the population.43
Policy CC-8.11
Build meaningful and trusting connections between the City and the
diverse communities that make up the broader Tukwila community to
foster their participation and involvement in City affairs and decision -
making processes.44
Community Character CC - 10
July 2024
36
DRAFT
Policy CC-8.12
Encourage the participation of dedicated, community -oriented
volunteers on City boards and commissions, striving to achieve a broad
and balanced representation of members from the entire community.45
Safety, Security, and Emergency Preparedness
Policy CC-8.13
Policy CC-8.14
Policy CC-8.15
Policy CC-8.16
Policy CC-8.17
Policy CC-8.18
Policy CC-8.19
Foster an environment of safety and security for those who live in, work
in, and visit Tukwila, through a broad and collaborative approach to
reducing and preventing crime.46
Equip residents, businesses, and community service providers through
education and training to be active participants in public safety
(including, but not limited to, emergency preparedness, crime
prevention, first aid, fire prevention, and climate -related hazards).47
The City Police Department works with community members and
businesses to identify approaches to addressing crime in the City.48
Maintain and update as required a City-wide Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plan (CEMP) and program, that:
• Establishes a comprehensive all -hazards approach to incident
management;
• Ensures ongoing operation and continuity of City government;
• Uses the National Incident Management System (NIMS);
• Serves to inform and educate City employees and the
community about emergency preparedness measures for all
hazards, including flood and climate -related emergencies;
• Effectively utilizes available resources from all City departments
and mutual aid partners, in an adequate and timely response to
emergency situations; and
• Addresses emergency preparedness for those with access and
functional needs, coordinating a broad range of stakeholders to
improve planning and responsive service.49
Continue to meet or exceed federal minimum standards for the National
Flood Insurance Program to better protect public health and safety, and
to achieve flood insurance premium discounts.5o
Ensure the City of Tukwila's continued participation in the National
Flood Insurance Program through periodic review and updating of flood
plain management standards and the flood zone construction permit
process.'
Encourage long-term community environmental security by supporting
and implementing the U.S. Conference of Mayor's Climate Protection
Agreement, climate pledges and commitments undertaken by the City,
and other multi -jurisdictional efforts to reduce greenhouse gas
Community Character CC - 11
July 2024
37
DRAFT
Policy CC-8.20
emissions, address climate change and other impacts of changing
global conditions.52
Lead by example to establish policy decisions and priorities, and design
programs and facilities that consider long-term impacts on natural and
human environments to address sustainability and climate change.53
Regional Responsibility
GOAL 9
POLICIES
Foster a strong sense of Tukwila's regional responsibility and
accountability balanced by an awareness of regional impacts
on the City and its citizens.54
Policy CC-9.1 Accept Tukwila's responsibility to coordinate regionally on the siting or
expansion of Essential Public Facilities (see Land Use policies)55
Policy CC-9.2
Policy CC-9.3
Site public capital facilities of a Countywide or Statewide nature to
support the Countywide land use pattern, support economic activities,
mitigate environmental impacts, provide amenities or incentives, and
minimize public costs. Amenities or incentives shall be provided to
neighborhoods/jurisdictions in which facilities are sited.56
Work with affected citizens, property owners and the neighboring cities
of SeaTac, Kent, and Seattle to develop interlocal agreements that may
be necessary to address concerns regarding shared borders.57
GOAL 10 Benefit the community by participating in regional, State, and
national forums.58
Policy CC-10.1
Enhance Tukwila's interests through participation in regional, State, and
national organizations and committees, and by developing partnerships
that can benefit the City, its residents, businesses, and the natural
environment.59
Community Character CC - 12
July 2024
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DRAFT
RELATED INFORMATION
Tukwila Strategic Plan, 2012, amended 2018
Tukwila Capital Improvement Program, Biennial Budget 2023-2024
Food Access Research Atlas, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service
Food Innovation Network
12015 Goal 1.1 and Goal 1.6
2 2015 Policy 1.1.1
3 Too broad — not "clear and objective"
2015 Policy 1.1.3
s 2015 Policy 1.1.4
6 2015 Policy 7.7
2015 Goal 1.4
8 2015 Policy 1.4.2
2015 Policy 1.4.3
10 2015 Goal 1.3
112015 Policy 1.3.1, partial
12 2015 Policy 1.3.2
13 2015 Policy 1.3.3
14 2015 Policy 1.3.5
1s 2015 Policy 1.3.6
16 New goal; partially Goal 1.2
17 2015 Policy 1.2.1, partial
18 2015 Policy 1.2.3
19 2015 Policy 1.2.4
20 2015 Policy 1.3.6
212015 Policy 1.3.7
22 2015 Policy 1.3.8
23 2015 Goal 1.9
24 2015 Policy 1.9.1
2s 2015 Policy 1.9.2
26 2015 Policy 1.9.3
27 2015 Goal 1.10
28 2015 Policy 1.10.1
29 Moved to Land Use Element
30 2015 Policy 1.10.3
31 2015 Goal 15.1
32 2015 Policy 15.1.1, truncated
33 "System navigation" is the term used in the human services field to represent how people get connected to
resources. This includes the intake process, identifying additional, unmet needs and barriers, connecting residents
to resources and support.
34 2015 Policy 15.1.2
35 2015 Policy 15.1.3
36 2015 Policy 15.1.4
37 King County FW-6
Community Character CC - 13
July 2024
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DRAFT
38 King County FW-7
39 King County FW-8
4° 2015 Policy 15.1.11
41 Consolidated into Policy 15.1.16
42 2015 Policy 15.1.13
43 2015 Policy 15.1.15
44 2015 Policy 15.1.16
45 2015 Policy 15.1.19
' 2015 Policy 15.1.5
47 New policy
48 2015 Policy, 1.1.12, revised
49 2015 Policy 15.1.6
5° 2015 Policy 15.1.7
512015 Policy 15.1.
52 2015 Policy 15.1.8
53 2015 Policy 15.1.9
54 2015 Goal 15.2
55 New Policy based on other 15.2 policies
56 2015 Policy 15.3
57 2015 Policy 1.5.2
58 2015 Goal 15.2
S9 2015 Policy 15.3.1
Community Character CC - 14
July 2024
40
DRAFT
Regioiae Casters
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER:
• A vision and description for the City's two designated centers, the Southcenter area
and Manufacturing and Industrial Center;
• A discussion of regional planning policies for urban centers;
• A discussion of relevant issues and opportunities to be addressed to ensure that
Tukwila's regional centers achieve the City's Vision for them; and
• Goals and Policies to guide future development in Tukwila's regional centers
INTRODUCTION
By the year 2050, the central Puget Sound region will add another million and a half people,
reaching a population of 5.8 million. In order to ensure that all residents benefit from the
region's growth, cities in the King, Snohomish, Pierce, and Kitsap counties, plus Tribes and
other partners have worked together with PSRC to develop VISION 2050.
VISION 2050 established the region's plan for how we can collectively provide an
exceptional quality of life, opportunity for all, connected communities, a spectacular
natural environment, and an innovative, thriving economy. To achieve that goal, the plan
includes a Regional Growth Strategy that focuses growth in centers and near transit, with
the goal of sustaining and creating different types of urban communities, while preserving
the region's working resource lands and open spaces.
The Regional Growth Strategy assumes 65% of the region's population growth and 75% of
the region's job growth will locate in the regional growth centers and near high -capacity
transit. Two of the 30 designated Centers are located in Tukwila — the Southcenter Urban
Center and the Tukwila Manufacturing and Industrial Center along the Duwamish River.
This element addresses the priorities the City has identified for those two centers.
Regional Centers RC - 1
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DRAFT
SOUTHCENTER TUKWILA URBAN CENTER
PURPOSE
Tukwila's Southcenter area is intended to develop as a high -density, regionally -oriented,
mixed- use center. In 1995, the Southcenter area was designated as a regional growth
center by the Puget Sound Regional Council's (PSRC) Vision 2050, and as an urban center
under the King County Countywide Planning Policies. The vision for Southcenter has
remained consistent since that time.
Urban centers are described in the Countywide Planning Policies as areas of
concentrated employment and housing, with direct service by high -capacity transit.
They encompass a wide range of land uses, including retail, recreation, public facilities,
parks, residential, and open space. They encourage the growth of each urban center as a
unique, vibrant community that is attractive to live and work. Centers should support
efficient public services including transit and respond to local needs and markets for
jobs and housing.
In Vision 2050, growth centers are intended to be compact areas of high -intensity
residential and employment development, with a mix of land uses including housing,
jobs, recreation, and shopping. Thedesignation ofregionalgrowthcentersisakeyelement
oftheregionalstrategyto preserve resource lands and protect rural lands from urban -
type development by promoting infill and redevelopment within urban areas to create
more compact, walkable, sustainable and transit- friendly communities. These
strategies direct the majority of the region's employment and housing growth to urban
centers in the form of compact, sustainable communities where housing and jobs are
located in a manner that provides for easy mobility and accessibility.
Urban centers are also given priority bytransit providers forfixed-railtransit service and other
transit service and facility improvements. The idea is to help ensure the long-term
economic viability and competitivenessof urban centers in the region as energy costs
escalate, congestion increases and consumer preferences shift.
Tukwila is also designated as a Core City under Vision 2050. Core cities are major cities
with regionally -designated growth centers. They are intended to accommodate a significant
share of future growth, contain key hubs for the region's long-range multimodal
transportation system, and are major civic, cultural and employment centers within their
counties.
In 2002,Tukwila began creating an urban center planfortheSouthcenter area. The Plan
focused on retaining the urban center's competitive edge and economic strength as
retail development grows within the region. At that time, the City recognized that an
urban center of regional significance creates benefits for all ofTukwila. Participants in
the six public workshops supported the following ideas:
Regional Centers RC- 2
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DRAFT
1. Making the Southcenter area a more attractive destination for shopping and leisure
activities;
2. Relieving critical congestion points, improving circulation, and making alternative
modes of transportation available;
3. Supporting existing businesses and attracting new; and
4. Creating opportunities for residential development in appropriate areas.
Public investment in keyareaswillsupport progress towards the community's vision of
enhanced and diversified economic vitality.
Southcenter policies support and expand the qualities of the Center that have generated its
economic success:
■ Land use polices are flexible to support diverse uses.
■ Urban design policies implement the community's vision, to be achieved through public
and private sector initiative and cooperation.
■ Site and streetscape policies emphasize accessibility as a key factor, as well as choice
in transportation modes.
These policies will reinforce future competitiveness and will create an urban center that
gives identity to the City.
ISSUES
Southcenter currently provides regional comparison shopping, major discount shopping,
major facilities for incubator businesses, entertainment, and a full range of professional
services. It includes intensely developed areas such as Westfield Southcenter Mall and
Andover Industrial Park, transportation facilities such as the Sounder commuter
rail/Amtrak station, and natural features and amenities such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler
Pond, and the Green River.
Retail uses dominate Southcenter; Westfield Southcenter Mall, in the northwest corner of
the center, is the largest regional shopping mall in the Seattle area. Warehouse uses are
more prominent in the area to the south.
A goal of growth management is to integrate housing, job growth, and services in order
to reduce the need for long commutes, and to keep living and working communities easily
accessible to each other. As a significant employment center, Southcenter already
provides jobs to residents and nearby communities. However, considerable residential
development is needed in the urban center to meetthe City's housingtargets. Thevision
for Southcenter includes expanded opportunities for housing, accommodating a
significant portion of the City's projected housing needs, and addressing the types of
Regional Centers RC- 3
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DRAFT
amenities and infrastructure needed to attract quality housing and create a connected,
dynamic urban environment.
Southcenter's future of higher-densitygrowth willtake place during and beyond the 20-
year horizon oftheCountywide policies. While urban centers playan integral role inthe
regionalvision,the Countywide policies require the form and function of these centers to
be determined at the local level.
VISION STATEMENT
The vision for Southcenter's next 20-40 years foresees:
■ a high -density area with housing and regional employment;
■ walkable —as well as auto -oriented —shopping and entertainment districts;
■ areas of high -quality housing near water amenities and within walking distance ofthe
Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station and the new bus transit center;and
■ recreational opportunities for businesspeople, residents, and visitors.
Support for interlinked transit and a pedestrian system to supplement an improved road
network are included in the future, as well as sensitively enhancing the accessibility to the
City's natural amenities, such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler Pond and the Green River.
The land use, design, andtransportation policies oftheSouthcenter Planfocusonkeepingthe
area's successful economic engine running. TomakeSouthcenter more competitive and
attractive overthe long term, the Plan aims to transition Southcenter into a great place for
working,shopping, doing business, living, and playing. Great places contribute to the well-
being of people and communities.
An area made up of great places will continue to attract people and maintain economic
vitality. Economic success, in turn, provides the City of Tukwila the fiscal means to
continue providing our community with excellent public services and improvements.
Southcenter, Tukwila's urban center, is currently an economically vibrant, motor vehicle -
oriented area. It owes much of its success to a high level of regional accessibility and —in
the past —a lack of competition within the region, as well as the 30+ year vision and vigor of
its development community.
Achieving the long-range vision of an economically and environmentally sustainable
community is anticipated to be a gradual process. It should be pursued by reinforcing
Southcenter's strengths and increasing its overall attractiveness through a combination of
public and private investment. This would support both new and existing businesses and
the continuation of market -sensitive transitions.
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DRAFT
Notable future features of the Southcenter Subarea Plan that will implement the Vision
include:
■ Improved connection between Westfield Southcenter Mall and Tukwila Pond Park.
■ A core area of high -quality walkable retail, entertainment, housing, public spaces, and
employment creating a memorable destination within the region.
■ Anchor areas linked by frequent transit service (5 to 10 minute buses or shuttles),
enhanced with public and private pedestrian facilities, and development standards
supporting this type of built environment.
■ High -quality transit and pedestrian facilities, focusing on creating strong connections
between the Mall and the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station.
■ Overall improvements to the network of streets, trails, sidewalks, and other
infrastructure.
■ Encouragement of a pedestrian -oriented environment through building and streetscape
design standards and guidelines.
■ Sub -districts differentiated through uses and development standards.
Southcenter's Boundaries
Northern —
Southern —
Eastern —
Western —
Properties south of Interstate 405
180th Street, with some properties on south side of the
street
The center of the Green River between 180th Street and
the southern boundary of properties that abut the south
side of the Strander Boulevard alignment, thence
eastward to the City limits
Toe of west valley wall
Regional Centers RC- 5
July 2024
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DRAFT
Figure 70-7: Tukwi1a'5 Urban Center (Southcenter) Sourrdaries
Regional Centers RC- 6
July 2024
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DRAFT
MANUFACTURING/INDUSTRIAL CENTER
PURPOSE
Tukwila's Manufacturing/Industrial Center (MIC) is one of ten such employment centers in
King County, established through a designation process outlined by the Growth
Management Planning Council (Figure I). It comprises an area of 998 acres along the
Duwamish River, bounded generally by the City of Seattle on the north, South 125th Street
on the south, the Burlington Northern railway right -of- way on the east, and the Duwamish
River on the west (Figure 2).
The area is already economically healthy, but opportunities exist to improve its usefulness
and competitive position. This element of the Comprehensive Plan addresses these
opportunities and recommends policies for realizing them.
ISSUES
Figure I —
King County MIC Designated Areas
There are more than 100 businesses located in the Manufacturing/Industrial Center, with a
large employment base, much of it in manufacturing. The Center is an integral source of
direct (property tax) and indirect (sales tax) revenues received by Tukwila.
The Center is characterized by light to heavy manufacturing uses, storage facilities, office
development, small areas of commercial development along arterials, and a few older
residences. The southern third of King County International Airport occupies 175 acres of
the Center, and there are County plans to redevelop this portion of the airfield as leases
lapse. (Figure 4)
The Boeing Company and the King County International Airport collectively control the
largest proportion of the North Tukwila MIC. While business needs may change in the
future, the Boeing Company's current use of this area comprises a mix of warehouse,
manufacturing, engineering, laboratory, office, research, and development. This mix of use
produces a stable employment environment within the area, with a focus on
manufacturing, engineering, research, and development.
Figure 3—Tukwila MIC: Jobs by Sector
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C [FUJI ky
rearuar,:,{
Irpnrt •
Lend
r.l._.._.! Tukwila City Limits
L Manufacturing 1 Industrial Center
200' Shoreline BufferZone on both
sides of the river
Zanrckg Di9lricts
M ICPrI-Manufacturing I ndustrial
Center/Heavy Industrnal
MIG)L-hManuiacturing Industrial
Center/Light Industrial
Because the Center is an established industrial area, an adequate infrastructure has been
in place and maintained for many years.
The Center is a major distribution hub well- served by automobile, truck, air, rail, and water
transportation facilities. Congestion represents a problem, however, partly owing to the
high number of single -occupancy vehicles. A number of street and intersection
improvements will be necessary to maintain acceptable levels of service. Regional
proposals for commuter rail and local rapid rail systems that include service to and through
Tukwila could also provide travel alternatives for area employees and regional travelers.
Regional Centers RC- 8
July 2024
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Figure 4—Tukwila MIC: Current land use
Tukwila's Manufacturing/Industrial Center is a major area of employment, providing
significant property and sales tax for the city, while much of the center is occupied by the
Boeing Company, the center is also characterized by other manufacturing, storage, office
uses, and limited older residential development. In addition, many smaller production
companies located in the MIC due to its central location.
A portion of King County International Airport (Boeing Field) is located inside the North
Tukwila MIC, at the far north end of the city. The center joins with Seattle's Duwamish MIC,
extending the industrial corridor south along the Duwamish. The center is a major regional
distribution hub, well served by auto, truck, air, rail, and water transportation.
The deferred Boeing Access Road Link Light Rail Station is moving forward as part of the
Sound Transit 3 (ST3) package. It will add a new elevated station in the vicinity of S Boeing
Access Rd, E Marginal Way, and 1-5 along existing Link 1 Line, bridging the 5.5-mile gap
between Rainier Beach and Tukwila International Boulevard stations. This project has
been a Tukwila priority for many years, as it will provide connections to the Duwamish
Manufacturing/Industrial Center and increase light rail access in southern Seattle and
northern Tukwila neighborhoods. A consultant has been hired to complete alternatives
analysis and the Sound Transit Board is scheduled to pick a preferred alternative in Q3
2024, with the station expected to open in 2031.
GOALS, POLICIES AND STRATEGIES
Southcenter Urban Center
The following goals, policies and strategies reflect the established vision for
Southcenter. These policies will help achieve the desired form and function ofTukwila's
urban center overthe 30- to 50-year planning period.
These goals and policies coverthe issues of land use, urban development, and
transportation and circulation. They support development and protection of the long-
term economic and
environmental sustainabilityofSouthcenter byfostering an attractive and functional
environment to live and recreate, aswell as retain its reputation as a good placetowork,
shop, and do business.
Goal RC-S-I
Land Use: Southcenter will contain an intense, diverse
mix of uses, which will evolve over time. The character
and pace of this change will be set by a combination of
guidelines, regulations, incentives, market conditions, and
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July 2024
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DRAFT
proactive private/public actions,which will reinforce
existing strengths and open new opportunities. The desire
for a high -quality environment for workers, visitors and
residents will also drive this character transition.
➢ LAND USE POLICIES
Policy RC-S-1.1 Southcenter Character. Raise awareness of Southcenter as a regional
commercial/industrial area, with opportunitiesforhigh-quality,mixed-
usetransit-oriented development including housing, served by a balance
of auto, pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities (Figures 10-2 and 10-
3).
Policy RC-S-1.2 Private and Public Investment. Private and public investment will be
aimed at facilitating and encouraging overall growth and redevelopment
in Southcenter.
Policy RC-S-1.3 Tukwila Urban Center(Southcenter) "Districts." Southcenter
encompasses a relatively large area containing a wide variety of uses. To
create a more coherenturbanformandenhancetheCenter's long-term
competitive edge within the region, guide development and change to
create distinct areas, or districts, where the character, forms, types of
uses and activities benefit, complement and support each other.
Figure 10-2: Envisioned High -Density Development in Tukwila
Defined building bays to brook
up length of building
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al ground floor
Figure 10-3: Envisioned Medium -Density Development in Tukwila
Loss rronsporenr
only or upper stories
Pedettdon-sooled
building
facade
Policy RC-S-1.4 Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) Residential Uses. To provide a
diverse set of housing alternatives and locations, a large percentage of
the City'sfuture housing needswillbeaccommodated in the urban
center. Residential development is especiallyencouraged in proximityto
water amenities or within walking distance of the Sounder commuter
Regional Centers RC- 10
July 2024
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GOAL RC-S-2
rail/Amtrak station or the bus transit center, subject to design standards
and incentives.
Urban Development: The northern portion of the
Southcenter area will contain a central focus area.
Throughout Southcenter, the natural and built
environments are attractive, functional, environmentally
sustainable, and distinctive, and support a range of mixed
uses promoting business, shopping, recreation,
entertainment, and residential opportunities.
➢ URBAN DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
Policy RC-S-2.1
Natural Environment: Recognize, protect, and enhance the open space
network by: augmenting existing parks; enhancing access to passive
and active recreation areas such asTukwila Pond,Minkler Pond, andthe
Green River; and byimproving air and water quality and preserving natural
resources, thereby effectively integrating the natural and built
environments in Southcenter. In addition, recognize that open space
amenities are attractors for awide range of uses, including housing and
office (FigureX).
Policy RC-S-2.2 Streets, Streetscape, and Pedestrian Environment. Create a
"complete street" network that establishes a finer -grained street grid;
reflects the demand and need for motor vehicles, transit, pedestrians,
and bicyclists; and provides a safe, convenient, attractive, and
comfortable pedestrian and bicycling environment. Ensure that street
design eliminates potential conflicts, promotes safety for all modes of
travel, and maintains emergency services response capabilities.
Reinforce the different functions of streets by creating distinct identities
for major rights -of -way (Figure 10-5).
Policy RC-S-2.3 Site Development. Create regulations and design guidelines that
result in high -quality sitedesign and enjoyable and safepedestrian
environments, using site design techniques that include but are not
limited to:
■ integrating architectural, site design and landscape elements.
■ supporting motor vehicle, transit service, and pedestrian traffic by
ensuring that new development and infrastructure are designed and
constructed consistent with adopted standards and subarea plans.
■ using physical and natural elements that enhance an area's overall
aesthetic, including orienting a building to the street (Figure 10-6).
■ extending the street grid system
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Policy RC-S-2.4
Policy RC-S-2.5
Policy RC-S-2.6
Policy RC-S-2.7
Policy RC-S-2.8
Policy RC-S-2.9
Pedestrian Accessibility. Ensure that pedestrians have safe,
convenient, and comfortable paths from adjacent public ways to key
building entrances. This could include utilizing driveways or internal
streets with sidewalks for access to primary entrances, or by providing
clearly marked pathways through large parking lots from the public
sidewalks and from parked cars to key building entrances. There should
be minimum interruption to the pedestrian pathway by driveways and
other vehicular conflicts (Figure 10-7).
Siting and orientation of buildings and parking lots should create an
environment that is conducive to walking in the northern part of the
Southcenter area, particularly in the area between the Mall, the bus
transit center, Tukwila Pond, and the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak
station.
Require interior vehicular connection between adjacent parking areas
wherever possible.
Development standards will consider the needs of land owners,
developers, businesses, and the community.
Parking. Ensure an adequate supply of parking for visitors, employees,
residents, and customers. Provide a variety of flexible regulations,
strategies, and programs to meet, and over the longer term reduce,
parking demands. Ongoing needs will also be assessed to ensure
appropriate parking requirements and to encourage efficient and
effective use of land in parking design.
Building Design. Promote high quality architecture in Southcenter, with
attention to standards and guidelines that:
■ Promote an appropriate display of scale and proportion.
■ Give special attention to developing pedestrian -oriented features
and streetfront activity areas such asground floor windows,
modulated buildingfacades, and rich details in material and signage.
■ Provide quality landscape treatment that emphasizes shade trees.
■ Provide an appropriate relationship to adjacent sites and features.
■ Encourage overall building quality, and sensitivity to — and respect
for — the area's important natural amenities such as the Green River
and Tukwila Pond.
■ Include property owners in developing urban design guidelines to
ensure that the intent of this policy is met.
Policy RC-S-2.10 Signage. Develop a directional sign program to aid pedestrians,
bicyclists, and motorists in wayfinding through Southcenter.
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Policy RC-S-2.11 Work collaboratively with Southcenter property owners, businesses,
and community members to implement the vision for Southcenter,
assess the potential to catalyze development intheSouthcenter
area, and form an economic redevelopment strategy.
Manufacturing Industrial Center
GOAL RC-MIC-1 Support for existing industrial activities in the
Manufacturing/ Industrial Center and development of new
industrial activity, in order to maximize the employment
and economic benefits to the people of Tukwila and the
region, while minimizing impacts on residential
neighborhoods.
POLICIES
Policies are designed to take advantage of the development and improvement
opportunities offered by the MIC and to realize its full revenue and employment potential.
Support New Development
Policy RC-MIC-1.1 Support the efforts of existing industries to expand and new industrial
businesses to develop in the Manufacturing/Industrial Center by
providing them with economic data, information on available
development sites, help in understanding and getting through the permit
processes, and other appropriate assistance.
PolicyRC-MIC-1.2 Assist landowners in remediating site problems caused by
contaminated soil.
Simplify Permit Processing
These policies aim at reducing unpredictable permit conditions and permit review time.
PolicyRC-MIC-1.3 Develop appropriate permit processes that minimize lengthy public
review and simplify the development permit process, while providing
meaningful opportunities for citizen input and protecting the
environment.
PolicyRC-MIC-1.4 Tailor Manufacturing/Industrial Center shoreline requirements to
achieve consistency between Shoreline and MIC element goals and
policies.
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Protect the Land Resource
The land in the Manufacturing/Industrial Center must be used effectively to allow it to
generate its potential of high -wage jobs and public revenue.
PolicyRC-MIC-1.5 Allow uses that are commonly associated with manufacturing and
industry, including those directly supporting such activity, such as
offices and laboratories, while limiting unrelated uses.
Policy RC-MIC-1.6 Develop and designate appropriate zoning, buffers, mitigation, and
access opportunities where manufacturing zoning directly abuts or
impacts residential zoning so that MIC uses may operate without
significant degradation of the residential environment.
Protect Adjacent Non -Industrial Land Uses from Negative Health Impacts
Policy RC-MIC-1.7 Minimize or mitigate potential health impacts of the activities in
manufacturing/ industrial center on residential communities, schools,
open space, and other public facilities.'
Improve Duwamish River Access
The Duwamish River as a natural amenity can be an asset to the industrial community.
PolicyRC-MIC-1.8 Support the Duwamish River becoming a natural feature amenity in the
MIC
Policy RC-MIC-1.9 Improve public access and use of the west side of the river, protecting
owner's rights to reasonable use and enjoyment, improve employee
access to the east side of the river, and emphasize restoration on both
sides of the river.
Improve Transportation Flow
Work with other governmental agencies to address transportation problems.
Policy RC-MIC-1.10 Reduce reliance on the single- occupancy vehicle for transportation of
employees in and out of the MIC.
Continue Intergovernmental Coordination
Work with other jurisdictions as required to ensure that the economic purpose of the MIC is
fulfilled.
Policy RC-MIC-1.11 Make appropriate adjustments to the boundaries between Tukwila, King
County and Seattle.
PolicyRC-MIC-1.11 Work with other jurisdictions to bring about necessary changes in laws
and regulations and to develop other approaches to solving common
problems.
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RELATED INFORMATION
Southcenter
Vision 2050, Puget Sound Regional Council, 2020
King County Countywide Planning Policies, November 2023
Growth Transportation Efficiency Center (GTEC) Program, 2007
Manufacturing/Industrial Center
Two MIC Reports (and their supporting documents) were prepared in 2010 and 2011 -these
were not updated for this Comprehensive Plan Update. They will be revisited at a future
date for compliance with Puget Sound Regional Council requirements:
■ MIC Background Report, 2010
■ MIC Issues and Opportunities Report, 2011
o Attachment A: Business Stakeholder Survey Summary, 2011
o Attachment B: MIC Business Survey Tabulation, 2011
In 1997, the City developed a Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Manufacturing
Industrial Center Implementation Plan. That document included three elements: a revised
shoreline plan for the area; a subarea plan; and proposed regulatory changes, including a SEPA
Planned Action (where project level environmental review is completed during the subarea plan
phase and development standards review).
In the intervening 25+ years, the City has determined that this work should be updated again before
its original intended purposes are continued. A recommendation to update this analysis may
emerge following the work to update the City's Centers plans required by the Puget Sound Regional
Council. The original document is linked below:
■ MIC Integrated GMA Implementation Plan ("Planned Action"), 1997
' This policy was moved from another element.
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Gcoaomic DeveeopitieNt
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER:
• A description of Tukwila's economic setting,
• A discussion of issues that affect economic development in the City, and
• Goals, policies, and strategies for enhancing the community's economic well-
being.
PURPOSE
The overriding goal of this element is to enhance the community's economic well-being.
The Economic Development element recognizes the City's economy is strongly and
directly influenced by the regional economy, while it still identifies policies and strategies
the City can use to guide our local economy. The Economic Development element is a
key component integrating all elements of the Comprehensive Plan, suggesting ways in
which the City and its partners can use effective economic strategies in order to achieve
the goals of the Plan.
There are four primary ways in which the City can affect local economic activity:
• Land use, transportation, and utility planning that determine, within the local
regulation and infrastructure capacity, the space available for residential and
nonresidential development;
• Providing quality public services such as public safety, transportation,
infrastructure, and recreation;
• Directly or indirectly influencing private sector decisions as to location, operation,
and development of business real estate, and
• Helping coordinate public and private sector efforts to enhance the employability
and job advancement potential of the residential population.
The City's general approach to enhancing the community's economic well-being can be
summarized as follows:
• Sustain moderate growth in the sectors of retail and entertainment, advanced
manufacturing, aerospace, clean technology, information technology, life -
sciences, and tourism
• Attract and retain businesses generating positive financial benefits for the City
• Target family wage and higher salary industries
• Improve and support the opportunities for education, skills training, and job
acquisition for all Tukwila residents
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• Provide capacity to meet Tukwila's employment targets as set by the Countywide
Planning Policies
• Encourage growth into certain areas through the use of zoning and developmental
regulations
• Encourage the retention and growth of existing local businesses, particularly for
Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color, immigrant, refugee, LGBTQIA+,
disabled, and women owned businesses
• Encourage entrepreneurs, local startups and businesses to establish in Tukwila
• Provide efficient and timely administration of City services
• Respond to specific requests for assistance from local firms
• Provide quality public services and infrastructure including public safety,
transportation, utilities, and recreation to existing and future needs of the economic
sector
• Support job enhancement programs to increase residents' employability through
coordination of private and public sector activities.
The following are potential tools available to the City to enhance economic development in the
City:
• Business Improvement Areas (BIAs)
• Local Improvement Districts (LIDs)
• Transportation Benefit Districts
• Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
• Multi -family property tax exemption (MFTE)
• Lodging tax and tourism promotion area (TPA) fees for tourism
• Local, state, and federal government funding and private resources
• Strategic sales of City property
• Use of infrastructure investment
• Funded, staffed, and administered economic development work group.
ECONOMIC SETTING
The following statistics help set the background for economic development policies. The
Economic Development Background Memo contains additional supporting information,
including employment and housing growth targets per the Countywide Planning Policies.
POPULATION, INCOME AND REVENUE
The population of Tukwila in 2023 was 22,780, an increase of approximately 3,264 from
2015 (OFM). The City's daytime population is estimated to be between 150,000 and
170,000. Taxes collected in 2015 were $45.2 million, which are projected to increase to
$51.4 million in 2023.
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During the same period (2015 to 2023), the assessed valuation of the City grew from $5.00
billion to $8.98 billion. In 2015, there were 7,832 housing units; by 2023, this number had
increased to 9,194 units.
In 2021, the median age of Tukwila residents was 36.1 years; over 11 % of all citizens were
65 or older; and 22.1% of the residents were under 20. In 2021, residents of color were
67.4% of the population. Foreign -born residents account for 39.2% of the population, and
more than 70 languages are spoken in the Tukwila School District.
The median household income in the City in 2021 was $71,688, up from $45,923 in 2015.
While Tukwila's median household income is still far below King County's median income
of $106,326, this represents a substantial increase, consistent with regional trends.
EMPLOYMENT
In 2015, Tukwila had 2.41 jobs per resident, this number decreased to 2.01 in 2022 with a
slight decrease in total jobs and slight increase in population. This ratio of jobs to residents
is extremely high compared to other King County cities and regionally. There were at least
2,291 licensed businesses of all types in Tukwila in 2022. The total number of jobs in
Tukwila has fluctuated since 2015, with impacts from COVID-19 seen across almost all
sectors. In 2015, the City had approximately 47,000 jobs, whereas, by 2022 the total
number of jobs in the City had fallen 2.4% to just under 46,000, with some rebounding trend
from pandemic impacts. The Service sector composes the largest sector of jobs, with 32%
of all jobs.
Manufacturing is next with 19.1% of jobs in the City. The number of manufacturing jobs has
been decreasing within Tukwila prior to this planning period, reflecting regional trends.
Between 2015 and 2022 Tukwila lost almost 2,100 manufacturing sector jobs. This trend
likely reflects the diminished presence of jobs with Boeing and other manufacturing firms in
the City's industrial areas.
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In 2022, retail accounted for 16.4% of jobs in Tukwila. Warehousing, transportation,
and utilities made up 12.5%.
50000
40000
30000
20000
10000
0
Tukwila Covered Employment by Sector, 2015-2022
i
i
•
i
1
•
i
I
i
i
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
■ Const_Res
■ FIRE
■ Manufacturing
Retail
■ Services
■ WTU
■ Government
■ Education
Services composed the largest percentage of jobs in 2022, with 32% of all jobs.
Manufacturing (19.1%); Retail (16.4%); and Warehousing, Transportation and Utilities
(12.5%) also make up sizable shares of Tukwila's employment.
The shares of each sector, relative to each other, did not change significantly between
2015 and 2022. While the number of total jobs within Tukwila fluctuated between 2015
and 2022, most sectors remained fairly consistent in their share of total jobs. The
Manufacturing and Service sectors displayed the largest decreases, at 4.0% and 1.7%
respectively, while other sectors saw slight increases in share, with the FIRE (finance,
insurance, and real estate) sector having the large proportional increase at 2.5%.
SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER (SBDC)
The SBDC at Highline specializes in providing business and training services to
entrepreneurs and existing businesses, in order to be successful in today's economy.
The center provides:
• Knowledgeable, trusted, and confidential one-on-one advice on all aspects of a
business.
• A link to 23 other SBDC centers in the Statewide network for additional advice.
• Guidance on the purchase of an existing business or a franchise.
• Assistance in finding sources of capital to grow a business.
• Ideas about how an established business can move to the next level.
• Benchmarking a company's performance with others to identify improvement
opportunities.
• Matching a businessperson with resources to accelerate the success trajectory of
a business.
• Developing prospect lists through targeted database searches.
• Information about training and funding that can assist in growing a business.
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There are a number of issues and trends affecting economic development in the City of
Tukwila:
Financial Challenges
• Retail Sales Tax: While Tukwila continues to enjoy the dominant role in attracting
retail, dining, and entertainment spending in South King County, sales tax has not
grown as fast as inflation. Retail sales tax in 2022 was only 1.5% above 2019's pre-
covid level. Retail and entertainment are still very strong in Tukwila, but sales tax
growth has gone elsewhere due to competition from other retail centers, the State's
change to destination -based sales tax, and consumer demand for online shopping.
• Property Tax: In 2001 Washington State voters passed an initiative that restricts
cities' ability to levy their annual property tax to only 1 % above their prior highest
lawful levy. New construction is added to the tax rolls above the 1 % limit, but then
becomes part of the taxing district's levy and grows at a maximum of 1 %. This law
limits Tukwila's property tax growth and poses challenges for funding City services
when the inflation rate is greater than 1%.
Public Safety and Public Image
• Tukwila has an excellent police department but still faces public safety challenges.
Because Tukwila has millions of square feet of retail and is located at one of the
busiest interchanges in the Pacific Northwest, it is a convenient location for
shoplifting, car prowls, and other property crimes. The public perception of crime is
often magnified because security businesses publish crime statistics on a per
capita basis. Tukwila has a much higher crime rate per capita due to the large
business sector and daytime population, compared to its small number of
residents. In addition, the region's opioid and fentanyl crises have further blemished
the public's perception of safety in the City.
Other Challenges
• Compared to King County as a whole, Tukwila's population has a significantly lower
per capita income, $36,673 compared to $59,843, and higher poverty rate (12.4%
compared to 9.4%) for 2021. Household median income is also lower than the
county median at $71,688 compared to $106,326. Low per capita and household
median incomes relative to the region limit funds available for Tukwila residents to
support basic needs, save for larger purchases, and leaves them more susceptible
to increasing or unexpected costs.
• The Tukwila South area presents a significant opportunity for new development, but
it is so large that it is challenging to find a developer that can make a large enough
investment to ensure a coordinated and cohesive mixed -use development.
• Nearly all of the portion of Tukwila that lies on the valley floor south of 1-405 and
east of 1-5 is protected by the Green River flooding by levees and embankments. The
Economic Development ED - 5
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DRAFT
protection system is working, but maintenance, repairs, and improvements are
becoming more complex and expensive, especially given the challenges of
protecting the environment and endangered species in the river system.
• Regional housing values and housing costs in the Puget Sound and Seattle region
have increased significantly. This has led to development of some new single family
and multi -family housing investments in Tukwila, however, as property values and
housing prices increase, the risk of local residents being displaced increases.
• Tukwila would like to receive additional office development since it can further
support the retail sector, but the market demand for new office development is very
limited. This is, in part, because office businesses preferred to be in downtown
Seattle, Bellevue, or Redmond. Due to the significant increase in remote work,
those office concentrations now have excess capacity. Boeing has been downsizing
some of their facilities in Tukwila, but there is strong demand for manufacturing,
warehouse, and distribution facilities. ProLogis and Amazon recently opened large,
new facilities in Tukwila's manufacturing and industrial center (MIC).
• The Tukwila International Boulevard neighborhood has an active and
entrepreneurial business community but many of the businesses generate income
insufficient to afford to make significant investments in physical improvements or
growth.
GOALS AND POLICIES
The following goals and policies provide the pathway how the City can realize its economic
development vision that as a vibrant community with a strong and sustainable economy that
celebrates and empowers its diversity, supports economic prosperity for all residents, and
sustains a foundation for businesses of all sizes.
GOAL ED-1 A Vibrant, Diverse, and Resilient Economy
Policy ED-1.1
Policy ED-1.2
Policy ED-1.3
Continue to strengthen and balance economic and workforce
development with strategic housing growth in Tukwila to ensure an
adaptable and diverse economic base that leverages Tukwila's many
assets and ensures the City's financial stability.
Attract and retain office, research, and development, advanced
technology and manufacturing, aerospace, food manufacturing, and life
sciences businesses, including those that provide services for export.'
Encourage commercial and mixed -use development that provides a
range of job opportunities throughout the city and county to create a
closer balance between the locations of jobs and housing.2
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Policy ED-1.4
Policy ED-1.5
Policy ED-1.6
Policy ED-1.7
Maintain support for and strengthen Tukwila's robust retail, hospitality,
and experiential sectors.
Evaluate the performance of economic development policies and
strategies in developing businesses and creating middle -wage jobs.3
Make local investments to maintain and expand infrastructure and
services that support local and regional economic development
strategies. Focus investment where it encourages growth in designated
centers and helps achieve employment targets.'
Promote the local workforce through priority hire programs that create
middle -wage employment opportunities, encouraging workforce
development partnerships, and identifying pipeline education or training
opportunities. 5
Regional Economy
Policy ED-1.8
Coordinate local and countywide economic policies and strategies with
VISION 2050 and the Regional Economic Strategy. Emphasize support
for those industry clusters that are integral to that strategy.6
Policy ED-1.9 Prioritize growth of a diversity of middle -wage jobs and prevent the loss of
such jobs from the region.'
Regional Centers
Policy ED-1.10
Policy ED-1.11
Policy ED-1.12
Partnerships
Concentrate economic and employment growth in designated regional,
countywide, and local centers through local investments, planning, and
financial policies.'
Support economic growth that, along with land use planning and
infrastructure development, facilitates Tukwila meeting its designated
regional growth targets.
Work to reduce the risk of industrial displacement through a variety of
anti -displacement strategies.9
Policy ED-1.13 Collaborate with the private sector to leverage catalytic development
sites.
Policy ED-1.14 Build and maintain relationships with property owners and businesses.
Economic Development ED - 7
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DRAFT
Site Selection and Development
Policy ED-1.15
Policy ED-1.16
Facilitate redevelopment of contaminated sites through local, county,
and state financing and other strategies that assist with planning, site
design, and funding for environmental remediation.1°
Continue working to achieve the vision in the Tukwila International
Boulevard District and Southcenter District, emphasizing walkability,
placemaking, and community gathering opportunities.
GOAL ED-2 A Safe, Desirable, and Healthy Community with a Positive
Identity
Policy ED-2.1
Policy ED-2.2
Policy ED-2.3
Policy ED-2.4
Policy ED-2.5
Policy ED-2.6
Enhance Tukwila's public safety perceptions and sense of place and
support a positive identity as a city in which to "Live, Work, Stay and Play"
— a community of choice for businesses, residents and visitors with
outstanding transportation, quality housing, fun experiences, amenities,
and supportive services.
Improve perceptions of public safety through crime reduction, visible
enforcement, improved communications, and messaging.
Invest in placemaking efforts that stimulate and instill community pride,
improve quality of life, and welcome visitors.
Promote positive aspects of the Tukwila community to the region.
Add to the vibrancy and sustainability of our communities and
community health and well-being by ensuring the provision of safe and
convenient access to local services, neighborhood -oriented retail,
purveyors of healthy food (e.g., grocery stores and farmers markets), and
sufficient transportation choices.'
Promote Tukwila's natural environment as a key economic asset and
work to improve access to it as an economic driver. Work cooperatively
with local businesses to protect and restore the natural environment in a
manner that is equitable, efficient, predictable, and complements
economic prosperity.'
GOAL ED-3 Prosperity and Opportunity for Businesses, Workers, and
Residents
Policy ED-3.1 Expand avenues of durable economic success for workers,
entrepreneurs, business owners, and residents in Tukwila, including
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Policy ED-3.2
Policy ED-3.3
workforce development, with a focus on shared prosperity, opportunity,
and social responsibility for local communities.
Promote the local workforce through priority hire programs that create
middle -wage employment opportunities in historically disadvantaged
communities.13
Direct investments to community and economic development initiatives
that elevate equitable economic opportunity for those communities most
marginalized and impacted by disinvestment and economic
disruptions.'4
Workforce Development and Partnerships
Policy ED-3.4 Improve awareness of, and access to, education and workforce
development resources.
Policy ED-3.5
Facilitate connections between employers and education and workforce
development institutions, seeking to increase graduation rates and
develop a highly educated and skilled local workforce. Align and
prioritize workforce development efforts with Black, Indigenous, and
other People of Color communities; immigrant and refugees; and other
marginalized communities.15
Policy ED-3.6 Act as a resource to residents and workers connecting them to workforce
development organizations.
Policy ED-3.7
Encourage private, public, and non-profit sectors to incorporate
environmental stewardship and social responsibility into their practices.
Encourage development of established and emerging industries,
technologies and services that promote environmental sustainability,
especially those addressing climate change and resilience.'6
GOAL ED-4 A Supportive Environment for Business and Entrepreneurs
Policy ED-4.1
Maintain a strong, supportive environment for local, independent, small,
and micro -businesses and the entrepreneurial ecosystem to ensure they
continue to flourish in Tukwila while attracting new business activities to
the City.
Policy ED-4.2 Where possible, ease regulations that challenge small businesses.
Policy ED-4.3
Ensure that business and entrepreneurial resources are available to
those with least access, including people of color, immigrants, and
refugees.17
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Policy ED-4.4
Policy ED-4.5
Ensure that Tukwila projects an 'open for business' culture, and help
businesses thrive through:
• Transparency, efficiency, and predictability of local regulations and
policies;
• Communication and partnerships between business, government,
schools, civic and community organizations, and research
institutions; and
• Government contracts with local businesses.18
Foster a broad range of public -private partnerships to implement
economic development policies, programs, and projects, including
partnerships with community groups. Ensure such partnerships share
decision -making power with and spread benefits to community groups.19
Policy ED-4.6 Use partnerships to foster connections between employers, local
vocational and educational programs, and community needs.20
Policy ED-4.7 Identify, support, and leverage key regional and local assets to the
economy, including assets that are unique to our region's position as an
international gateway, such as major airports, seaports, educational
facilities, research institutions, health care facilities, long -haul trucking
facilities, and manufacturingfacilities.21
Policy ED-4.8
Policy ED-4.9
Support the regional food economy including the production,
processing, wholesaling, and distribution of the region's agricultural food
and food products to all King County communities. Emphasize improving
access for communities with limited healthy, affordable, and culturally
relevant food options.22
Develop and implement systems that provide a financial safety net
during economic downturns and recovery. Direct resources in ways that
reduce inequities and build economic resiliency for those communities
most negatively impacted by asset poverty.23
GOAL ED-5 A Community that Values Diversity and Access to Opportunity24
Policy ED-5.1
Policy ED-5.2
Foster a business community in Tukwila that welcomes and empowers
residential and business diversity in all its forms while capturing
increased market share and building resilience to economic shocks.
Seek to understand the dynamics, needs, and relationships within
communities, and where possible, provide crucial technical support and
regulatory relief where feasible for small businesses owned by those with
least access, including people of color, immigrants, and refugees.2s
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Policy ED-5.3
Policy ED-5.4
Policy ED-5.5
Policy ED-5.6
Policy ED-5.7
Highlight the dynamic diversity of local communities as a means to
enhance social capital, neighborhood cohesion, the county's global
relationships, and support for cultural and arts institutions.26
Promote business diversity by signaling public sector support and ensure
public investment decisions protect culturally significant economic
assets and advance the business interests of Black, Indigenous, and
other People of Color communities; immigrant and refugees; and other
marginalized communities.27
Eliminate and correct for historical and ongoing disparities in income,
employment, and wealth by building opportunities for Black, Indigenous,
and other People of Color; women; and other intersecting marginalized
identities.28
Promote an economic climate that is supportive of business formation,
expansion, and retention, and that emphasizes the importance of small
businesses, locally owned businesses, women -owned businesses, and
businesses with Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color; immigrant
and refugee; LGBTQIA+; disabled; and women -owned or -led businesses,
in creatingjobs.29
Stabilize and prevent the economic displacement of small, culturally
relevant businesses and business clusters during periods of growth,
contraction, and redevelopment. Mitigate displacement risks through
monitoring and adaptive responses.3o
RELATED INFORMATION
King County Countywide Planning Policies (2022)
Vision 2050 (2021)
Economic Development Element strategy
1 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-6
2 King County Countywide Policy K_EC-26
3 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-4
4 King County Countywide Policy K_EC-18
'Combined King County Countywide Policy K_EC-13, and PSRC Consistency tool: Economy. "...Expand
access to economic opportunities through actions such as adopting a priority hire ordinance, encouraging
workforce development partnerships, and identifying pipeline education or training opportunities...).
6 King County Countywide Policy K_EC-1 and K_EC-3.
King County Countywide Policy K_EC-2, in part
8 King County Countywide Policy K_EC-17; this policy requires a strategy
9 PSRC MIC Consistency Tool: Economy, Guidance; this policy requires a strategy
Zo King County Countywide Policy K_EC-24
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11 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-19 (Edited from original)
12 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-20
13 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-13
14 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-16
15 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-12; the PC (at their 9/28/23 mtg) wanted us to revisit this
second sentence. See minutes.
16 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-21
17 Change recommended during City staff equity review.
18 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-5
19 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-8
20 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-9
21 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-10
22 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-11
23 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-27
24 This change was modified to reflect the City's emphasis on "inclusion" rather than "equity": equity is
being described more as creating opportunity for, and directing resources to, those with least access. We
are addressing what equity looks like when applied.
25 Policy/Strategy 5B from recently adopted Tukwila Economic Development Strategy.
26 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-14; modified by City Staff equity review
27 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-28
28 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-15
29 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-7
30 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-29
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NatnraC environment
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER
• Adescriptionofthenatural resourcesandenvironmentally critical areas present in
the CityofTukwila;
• AdiscussionoflocalCityeffortstoprotectTukwila'snaturalresources;and
• Goals and Policies for protecting sensitive natural resources, includingthe urban
forest.
PURPOSE
This element of the Comprehensive Plan addresses the City's natural environment - air,
land, and water resources - by guiding future development in a manner that protects the
community's environment and resilience in the face of change, improves the quality of life
in the City, and provides protection of community residents from natural hazards.
To be healthy and sustainable, a community must integrate the natural environment into
urban development design. The natural environment and its associated ecological
processes provide many benefits to Tukwila, including:
• Visual relief from the hard, constructed surfaces of urban development;
• Fish and wildlife habitat;
• Air and water quality;
• Surface water runoff management;
• Recreational opportunities for interaction with nature;
• Human health; and
• Aesthetic and economic benefits.
Trees and vegetation also provide critical environmental services which, in turn, affect the
quality of life of residents, visitors, daytime workers and neighboring communities. Some of
the benefits of trees are shown as follows.
The City conducted a required periodic update of its critical areas regulations in 2018 and
2019. This included a Public Outreach Plan that used a variety of methods to notify the
general public and property owners including an open house, mailings, notice in a
stormwater bill, postings on the City's website, creation of a broadcast email group that
received updates of the process, and articles in the City's Hazelnut newsletter.
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Benefits of Trees
ENVIRONMENTAL
• Fish and wildlife habitat
• Improved air quality
• Storm water mitigation
• Reduced energy consumption
• Sequestration of carbon
• Stabilization of slopes
SOCIAL
• Lower crime rates
• Mental health benefits
• Improved physical health
• Aesthetics and quality of life
CONOMIC
• Consumer satisfaction/ increased spending
• Increased property values
• Reduced maintenance of road surfaces (shade)
• Green infrastructure — reduced cost over installing and maintaining surface water
infrastructure
The Natural Environment Element sets forth goals and policies to guide the protection and
management of wetlands, watercourses, springs, fish and wildlife habitat areas, and
geologically hazardous areas — collectively called "environmentally critical areas". It also
includes goals and policies related to flood management, surface water management,
water quality, and the urban forest (the combination of trees, shrubs and other plants that
make up the formal landscaped areas of the City and the natural areas in our parks and on
private property).
Tukwila Pond serves as both wetland habitat and temporary stormwater storage. [Image]
Southgate Creek is an example of a watercourse with little riparian protection from urban
impacts. [Image]
THE STATE OF TUKWILA'S URBAN ENVIRONMENT
Tukwila encompasses about nine square miles, and much of the city lies within an
extensive valley centered on the Lower Green/Duwamish River watershed. The valley is
virtually flat and almost entirely built out except for the currently undeveloped Tukwila
South area. The upland areas of the City have rolling topography and numerous areas with
steep and potentially unstable slopes. Many of the steep hillsides are forested with second -
or third -growth trees and understories with a mix of native and invasive vegetation. These
areas —together with the City's numerous streams, wetlands, springs, and the River —
provide important fish and wildlife habitat that coexist with the built environment. The
following is a summary of conditions in the constituent elements of Tukwila's environment.
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The City conducted a required periodic update of its critical areas regulations in 2018 and
2019. This included a Public Outreach Plan that used a variety of methods to notify the general
public and property owners including an open house, mailings, notice in a stormwater bill,
postings on the City's website, creation of a broadcast email group that received updates of
the process, and articles in the City's Hazelnut newsletter.
WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES
As urban development has occurred, natural drainage corridors have been altered or
placed in culverts, and wetlands have been filled. Remnant wetlands remain in some of the
City's parks, on undeveloped slopes (formed by springs and groundwater seeps), in freeway
interchanges, and in other areas of the City. Wetlands and watercourses have been
provisionally identified and mapped on the City's Environmentally Critical Areas Map. The
City has purchased Tukwila Pond and Macadam wetland for preservation. Tukwila Pond
serves as both a wetland and temporary storm water storage pond for commercial
development on its north side. Macadam wetland collects mostly natural surface water
from the steep slopes located on its east side.
WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES
As urban development has occurred, natural drainage corridors have been altered or
placed in culverts, and wetlands have been filled. Remnant wetlands remain in some of the
City's parks, on undeveloped slopes (formed by springs and groundwater seeps), in freeway
interchanges, and in other areas of the City. Wetlands and watercourses have been
provisionally identified and mapped on the City's Environmentally Critical Areas Map. The
City has purchased Tukwila Pond and Macadam wetland for preservation. Tukwila Pond
serves as both a wetland and temporary storm water storage pond for commercial
development on its north side. Macadam wetland collects mostly natural surface water
from the steep slopes located on its east side.
FISH SPECIES IN TUKWILA
Fish species found in the Green/Duwamish River include the following:
• Cutthroat trout
• Puget Sound Chinook salmon (threatened)
• Puget Sound Steelhead (threatened)
• Chum salmon
• Coho salmon
• Pink salmon
• Sockeye salmon
• Bull trout (threatened)
Resident Cutthroat trout are found in Tukwila's streams, as well as other fish and
aquatic species.
(Cutthroat trout photo courtesy of Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.)
Stream alterations have affected wildlife and fish habitat. There are a few remaining open
channels in the four main streams in Tukwila (Johnson Creek, Gilliam Creek, Southgate
Creek and Riverton Creek), which have been channelized, relocated and piped for much of
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their length. Construction of urban streets and highway systems and driveways required
watercourses to be placed in culverts, which have blocked or made fish passage difficult.
All the streams discharge into the Green/Duwamish River.
Stormwater Runoff — coupled with steep slopes in the upper reaches of Gilliam, Southgate
and Riverton Creeks — has caused scouring and erosion in the stream channels, resulting in
deepened ravines with steep banks, instability, bank erosion and downstream
sedimentation. The lower reaches of Tukwila's streams are generally lacking in pools and
woody debris, which are important for good fish habitat. Thus, the open reaches of
Tukwila's streams are generally in deteriorated conditions with poor riparian habitat and
narrow buffers. In fact, many tributaries of the urban watercourses flow in roadside ditches
with little protection from urban impacts. Recent City -led projects to remove flap -gates are
working at enriching stream habitat at River outlets by removing barriers, increasing
complexity, replanting, and increasing hydrologic connectivity.
FISH AND WILDLIFE
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has mapped and identified
priority habitats and species in Tukwila to ensure their protection and management. They
include: the Green/Duwamish River; reaches of Gilliam Creek, Southgate Creek and
Riverton Creek; riparian areas (areas adjacent to streams and rivers) and freshwater
wetlands. Also mapped are wetland complexes and Johnson Creek in Tukwila South.
WDFW has also inventoried and mapped barriers to fish passage in Tukwila as part of a
larger Statewide effort. A federal court injunction ordered Washington State agencies to
repair culverts that block fish passage in violation of the Stevens Treaties that ensured
tribal right to fish "at usual and accustomed" places. While the federal injunction does not
apply to local jurisdictions such as Tukwila, there are county, state and federal programs
supporting the repair of barriers to fish passage within local jurisdictions. The City's
Surface Water Comprehensive Plan includes the inventoried list and additional information
on barriers to fish passage within Tukwila. The City of Tukwila advocates for barrier removal
through multi -benefit approach capital improvement projects in conjunction with other
surface water priorities including drainage and water quality improvements, flood
protection, and salmon habitat restoration when funding opportunities present.
The Shoreline Master Program provides more detail on the City's involvement with the
Water Resource Inventory Area 9 (WRIA 9) and the Green/Duwamish River Salmon Habitat
Plan, which guides local sponsor restoration planning and implementation for Chinook
salmon habitat.
Volunteers removing invasive blackberry - Duwamish River Shoreline Restoration Project
[Image]
Community volunteers stocking Coho salmon in Southgate Creek.
[Image]
Pacific tree frog at wetland restoration site.
[Image]
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Tukwila residents and businesses are actively involved in stewardship, wildlife protection,
and enhancement through City -sponsored activities such as Green Tukwila, as well as in
private initiatives to restore shorelines and open spaces and annually stock and incubate
Coho salmon eggs in local creeks. In addition, the City's NPDES program works to educate
citizens, businesses, and school age children on ways to improve water quality and directly
benefit salmon habitat.
Waterfowl areas in Tukwila include Tukwila Pond and the wetlands in Tukwila South, both of
which provide important winter habitat for migrating waterfowl and permanent habitat for
other waterfowl. More than 50 species of birds have been recorded at Tukwila Pond. Other
bird species found in Tukwila include osprey, which regularly nest near the Green/
Duwamish River; hawks; and passerine birds. Other wildlife species found in Tukwila
include harbor seals, coyotes, deer, Eastern Grey squirrels, beaver, otter, nutria, turtles
(mostly non-native red -eared sliders), garter snakes, snails, amphibians (non-native
bullfrogs, native Pacific tree frogs and salamanders), opossum, and raccoons.
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
Tukwila's urban center, the light industrial and manufacturing area south of South 180th
Street, part of Tukwila South, and Fort Dent Park are protected from flooding of the Green
River by levee systems. The City participates in the National Flood Insurance Program
administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which has mapped
regulated floodplains in Tukwila. Mapped floodplains and the levee systems are explained
in more detail in the Shoreline Element of the Comprehensive Plan.
Impervious surfaces and the reduction of natural wetland functions have caused localized
flooding from streams periodically, at varying levels of severity on some areas of public
right-of-way, as well as private properties where inadequate or no surface water
infrastructure exists. The City has resolved many of the flooding problems through
improvements to surface water infrastructure. The surface water management system
(surface water utility) is described in more detail in the Utilities Element of the
Comprehensive Plan. More detailed information on localized flooding problems is provided
in the City's Comprehensive Surface Water Management Plan.
EARTH RESOURCES AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
The City has mapped areas with steep and unstable slopes, including active landslide
areas, to ensure that there is adequate review of slope stability if development is proposed
in these areas. In addition, there are coal formations on the southwest side of Interurban
Avenue South, some of which have been mined and are defined as environmentally critical
areas based on the City of Tukwila Abandoned Underground Coal Mine Hazard
Assessment, May 1990.
WATER QUALITY
The City has conducted periodic water quality studies that have indicated Tukwila's
streams and the Green/Duwamish River suffer from poor water quality due to stormwater
runoff, small buffers, and suboptimal vegetation. Rain events wash contaminants off
rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, parking lots and roads into the watercourses. Runoff from
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these areas can contribute to high temperatures in urban streams and carry contaminants
into streams and wetlands.
New developments are required to implement Green Stormwater Infrastructure3 and
comply with flow control and water quality treatment requirements intended to moderate
and treat discharges that flow towards streams. There are, however, still areas of Tukwila
where runoff from impervious surfaces discharges directly to streams and the river with no
treatment. (See Natural Environment Element Regulatory Background Report for more
information on water quality.)
Riparian habitat plays a valuable role in protecting stream water quality. Adequately -sized
and healthy riparian buffers help to mitigate a variety of pollutant impacts. Shade streams
reduce the high water temperatures that contribute to anaerobic stream conditions, which
have lethal effects on fish and other aquatic species. Unfortunately, most of Tukwila's
streams have poor quality, narrow riparian areas.
AIR QUALITY
Tukwila lies in the air quality region made up of King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish
counties. Air quality is monitored and managed by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency.
Through the efforts of the Clean Air Agency, King County as a whole generally has good air
quality, however, climate conditions have increasingly had an impact on air quality in
Tukwila and the region. Wildfires have created air quality concerns as harmful chemicals
and tiny particles suspended in the air create health issues for the public. During these
periods of smoke exposure, the City follows the guidance of regional, state, and national
health, emergency management, and air quality partners in providing public education and
community response options.
Tukwila is divided throughout by significant transportation corridors, including Interstates 5
and 405, as well as Washington 599, and Washington 518. These road systems have been
found to negatively impact community health. A study completed by the Puget Sound
Clean Air Agency (PSCAA) documented that some areas of Tukwila bear among the worst
air quality health impacts from road systems within King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Kitsap
counties. "Tukwila/Allentown" was identified as the most impacted of the "Highly
Impacted Communities", and the "Tukwila/Kent" area experienced the third worst air
quality. Much of that impact comes from diesel pollution, as well as industrial source
pollution.
In addition, the Duwamish Valley south of Seattle suffers from higher particulate pollution
levels that are damaging to human health. This corridor provides valuable economic
services to the region in terms of transportation corridors, industry, and commerce, which
comes at a cost to the area's inhabitants.
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CLIMATE CHANGE
The impacts of climate change in Tukwila affect several aspects of the natural environment,
as well as the provision of utilities to its residents. Climate modelling indicates that the
region will experience warmer temperatures, changing the precipitation pattern towards
less snow and more rain during the winter. This poses challenges to flood hazard mitigation
within Tukwila and the valley, and also will impact the regional water supply. Climate
change causes sea levels to rise, which would affect the tidally -influenced portions of the
Green/Duwamish River, raising water levels in the river and causing tidal waters to reach
further upriver and into streams. This, in turn, could impact flood hazard mitigation
measures and fish and wildlife habitat, with particular detriment to salmon. Other possible
effects of climate change could include new and increased insect infestations in the City's
urban forest; changes in wildlife behavior and diversity; increased demands on City
resources; and reduced availability of water supplies for drinking water, irrigation of
gardens, landscaped areas, street trees and parks.
Increases in temperatures could exacerbate existing heat island effects in the highly
developed areas of the City where there is a significant amount of impervious surface
(buildings, streets, and parking lots). Recently, King County created a heat map4, showing
how Tukwila, with a relatively large, paved footprint, can reach extremely high temperatures
and is unable to cool at night during extreme heat events. Tukwila residents and workers
are thus being increasingly exposed to heat -related illness, at an inequitable rate as
compared to other parts of the region. This underscores the importance of increasing tree
canopy in these areas to help reduce temperatures during the summer months, particularly
over impervious surfaces such as parking lots. High water temperatures are already a
problem for salmon in the Green/Duwamish River, where there is a lack of shade from trees
along the shoreline in many areas. Restoration plantings and maintaining large trees on the
shoreline will help improve conditions for salmon in the river and in its tributaries, and help
to reduce even greater water temperatures that could be caused by climate change.
TUKWILA'S URBAN FOREST
A tree engulfed by invasive English ivy.
[Image]
The "City of Tukwila Urban Tree Canopy Assessment," was last updated 2012, although
work is underway to update the study'. The assessment quantifies existing urban tree
canopy, as well as impervious surfaces, surface water, grasslands, and bare soils.
Assessment information shapes the basis for several new goals and policies relating to the
urban forest. (See the assessment report appended to this chapter of the Comprehensive
Plan.)
The City is fortunate to have remnant stands of second- or third -growth native forests and
good canopy coverage in its low density residential areas -- on undeveloped steep slopes
and in some of its parks (for example, Crystal Springs Park and Tukwila Park). However,
these forest stands lack active management and suffer from over -crowding, lack of
diversity, and infestations of invasive plants like blackberry and ivy, all of which
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compromise their sustainability. Trees in undeveloped areas are threatened by future
development. Aging trees in already -developed residential and commercial areas become
hazardous and require removal and are not always replaced with new trees. Many landslide
hazard slopes in Tukwila currently enjoy the protection of canopy coverage, however the
lack of active management leaves this protective factor vulnerable to threats.
The City has street trees of varying species, sizes, health, and maturity planted on City
rights -of -way throughout Tukwila. They range from large canopy trees to small canopy or
young trees that do not provide many benefits. Street trees often do not get replaced when
they are damaged or removed and do not all get the level of care or the conditions they
need to thrive.
Shade trees cover is gradually improving in most of the City's commercial parking lots and
other landscaped areas with the implementation of new tree codes and code enforcement.
Trees in these areas are often improperly pruned or removed and not replaced. Trees
throughout the City are frequently damaged by installation or maintenance of infrastructure
and new development.
The Green/Duwamish River and the City's streams generally have narrow riparian buffers,
the result of development occurring before protective buffer widths were required. These
too -small buffers have been impacted by urbanization, and the increasing amounts of
impervious surface, reducing the amount of urban forest in these areas. Some reaches of
the river are characterized by large native canopy trees (Foster Golf Course, for example),
while in other areas there is little to no tree canopy and large expanses of invasive
vegetation instead. Trees have been removed from the Green River levee south of SR 405 to
meet Corps of Engineers requirements. New efforts to increase multi -benefit approaches
to flood control may take ecology further into account.
Several environmental restoration projects to enhance the urban forest have been
completed and also are underway in the City's parks, wetlands, and streams, and along the
Duwamish River. Trees have been planted along the river by King County as mitigation for
removal of trees elsewhere. The City also plants hundreds of trees in its parks each year;
requires trees as part of landscaping for commercial, industrial, office and multi- family
developments; and requires tree replacement in environmentally critical areas.
The City does not have, however, a comprehensive written urban forestry plan, street tree,
or other program in place to ensure retention, protection, and maintenance of a healthy
urban forest across all areas of the City. A program to improve the urban forest should
include the following emphasis:
• Preservation of existing trees and forest;
• Preservation and improvement of the "tree -growing" environment (i.e., adequate
growing conditions for trees);
• Planting for the long term (i.e., ensuring that the right tree is placed in the right place
with sufficient provisions for tree maintenance and care);
• Monitoring for emerging threats to the urban forest; and
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• Promotion of the environmental equity goals that should be realized in the urban forest.
REGULATIONS
In addition to the State Growth Management Act, many regulations at the federal, State,
and local levels apply to the management of Tukwila's natural environment. More
information can be found in the Background Report for this Element.
ISSUES
In the Natural Environment Element, several key issues are addressed that reflect new
community priorities and respond to new regulations at the local, regional, State, and
federal levels. The goals and policies that follow respond to these identified issues.
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY, COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL
STEWARDSHIP
In order to foster best practices for protecting Tukwila's environmental quality, improve the
protection and restoration of the City's environmentally critical areas and fish and wildlife
habitat, and improve air and water quality, the City needs to provide information and
education to the community in various forms. In addition, the City should continue to
expand efforts, in collaboration with other organizations and businesses, to engage the
community through hands-on environmental stewardship and restoration activities.
Policies regarding the protection of fish and wildlife and climate change are also important
to incorporate into the Natural Environment Element.
ENVIRONMENTALLY CRITICAL AREAS
Although Tukwila has enacted significant revisions to its Environmentally Critical Areas
regulations over the years, most recently in 2020, new policies are needed to reflect the
current best available science information, and new federal and State regulations and
guidelines. Tukwila also needs to improve the protection of watercourses and find
mechanisms and resources to ensure that compensatory mitigation is successful for the
long term.
A great deal of nonconforming development was legally established prior to current
regulations and continues to negatively impact the quality of the City's buffers. To
ameliorate the impact of these damaging developments, the City should partner with, and
provide incentives to, landowners to encourage redevelopment that conforms to current
standards.
FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
The listing of Puget Sound Chinook salmon and Bull Trout under the Endangered Species
Act has underscored the need for the City to protect and restore habitat for fish and other
wildlife. Continued restoration efforts and new sources of funding are needed to carry out
habitat restoration on the Green/Duwamish River and its tributaries. The City must continue
to be actively involved in shaping programs and helping implement the WRIA 9 Salmon
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Habitat Enhancement Plan, in collaboration with other local jurisdictions and county, State
and federal government agencies.
WATER QUALITY
More efforts are needed to improve and protect water quality in the City's wetlands,
watercourses, springs, and the Green/Duwamish River; therefore, the City needs to ensure
that adequate resources are available. Programs for monitoring water quality, retrofitting
surface water management systems where there are water quality problems, and
improving riparian buffers are important actions for the City to carry out.
SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT
With new State requirements for the management of surface water, the City must modify its
surface water regulations and begin implementing and requiring low -impact development
techniques for surface water system retrofits and for new development. The City operates
its street drain network (MS4) under a State issued NPDES Permit (Permit) and manages the
ditches, swales, ponds, pipes, vaults, catch basins and manholes to be consistent with an
approved manual of Best Management Practices (BMPs). The MS4 Permit requires the City
to use an approved manual. Tukwila adopted the King County Surface Water Design Manual
and all its appendices and correlations to control construction permits along with public
and private operations and maintenance of all components of the surface water system,
including groundwater.
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
Because the City has levees along parts of the Green/Duwamish River to reduce flood
potential, it is necessary for the City to coordinate with County and federal officials and
neighboring local jurisdictions, on maintenance and rebuilding of the levees and ensuring
that federal certification is continued, where applicable. Also, due to the listing of Chinook
salmon and other aquatic species under the Endangered Species Act and Corps of
Engineers policies limiting vegetation on levees, the City needs to be involved in efforts to
achieve good riparian conditions, while not compromising the integrity of levees or losing
federal certification.
The King County Flood Control District prioritizes the design and implementation of a multi -
benefit floodplain approach that reduces flood risks, ensures public safety, and restores
river ecosystems in an equitable and just manner. The ten multi -benefits include: equity
and social justice, environmental justice, habitat protection and salmon recovery, jobs and
sustainable livelihoods, open space conservation, productive and viable agriculture,
recreational opportunities, resilient communities and ecosystems, sustainable and clean
water, and sustainable development.
EARTH RESOURCES
The definition of steep slopes should be clarified, and new policies are needed to require
setbacks and better protect trees on steep slopes.
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TREES AND THE URBAN FOREST
The City needs to establish policies and programs to protect and enhance the urban forest,
including enforcing and continually improving policies for protecting trees, increasing tree
canopy, and ensuring sufficient resources to properly maintain trees, improve tree health,
and reduce potential hazards to the public.
GOALS AND POLICIES'
Environmental Quality and Stewardship
GOAL EN-1 The City's air, land, and water resources are restored and protected
for future generations and are resilient to a changing climate'.
POLICIES
Policy EN-1.1
Anticipate the effects of climate change by incorporating Best Available
Science, considering long-term climate change projections, and planning
for adaptative management of City regulations and internal procedures,
as needed.
Policy EN-1.2 Develop and implement environmental strategies that use integrated and
interdisciplinary approaches to environmental assessment and planning,
in coordination with local jurisdictions, tribes, and other stakeholders.9
Policy EN-1.3 Collaborate with federal, state, and tribal10 fish and wildlife agencies to
identify priority habitats and species, to establish appropriate
protections to ensure no net loss of ecological functions and values."
Policy EN-1.4 Provide guidance to assist applicants in understanding and complying
with federal and State fish and wildlife regulations for all public and
private sector projects.
Policy EN-1.5 Develop and implement programs that encourage and incentivize
Tukwila residents and businesses to take active measures to protect,
enhance, and plan for changing conditions of Tukwila's natural
environment to increase climate resiliency. Such measures could
include, but are not limited to, the use of Low Impact Development (LID)
techniques, natural streambank restoration, non -toxic lawn care, and
composting and recycling.13
Policy EN-1.6
Identify and preserve regionally significant open space networks through
implementation of the Regional Open Space Conservation Plan. Develop
strategies and funding to protect lands that provide the following
valuable functions:
Natural Environment EN - 11
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DRAFT
GOAL EN-2
POLICIES
a. Ecosystem linkages and migratory corridors crossing jurisdictional
boundaries;
b. Physical or visual separation providing buffers between
incompatible uses;
c. Active and passive outdoor recreation opportunities;
d. Wildlife habitat and migration corridors that preserve and enhance
ecosystem resiliency in the face of urbanization and climate change;
e. Preservation of ecologically sensitive, scenic, or cultural resources;
and
f. Urban green space, habitats, and ecosystems.14
An educated public that understands the importance of protecting
and enhancing the functions and values of environmentally critical
areas, including fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas,
wetlands, floodplains, and the Green/Duwamish River, and actively
assists in their stewardship.
Policy EN-2.1 Develop and expand free or low-cost educational programs and
materials for the community about the benefits of protecting and
enhancing the City's environmentally critical areas, the urban forest and
wildlife habitat, and individual responsibilities for their stewardship in a
changing climate. The City should continue to develop and support
community -oriented wildlife educational programs, such as the Tukwila
Backyard Wildlife Program, and communicate the requirements of City
environmental regulations so as to maximize compliance and minimize
code enforcement actions and environmental degradation.
Policy EN-2.2
Policy EN-2.3
Water Resources
GOAL EN-3
Provide individualized education and technical support to residential
property owners and general guidance to businesses regarding
environmental stewardship and climate change resiliency strategies.
Collaborate with environmental organizations and businesses to
support recruiting and training of environmental stewards, identify and
sponsor restoration projects, incorporate climate change -focused
strategies and provide logistical support for their work. Action should be
taken to encourage expanding the citizen volunteer base in Tukwila for
restoration and enhancement of the City's natural areas to promote the
continued health of these systems.19
Water resources that function as a healthy, integrated system;
provide a long-term public benefit from enhanced environmental
quality; are resilient from a range of climate -related events including
Natural Environment EN - 12
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DRAFT
increased flood events, changes in water temperature, and drought;
and have the potential to reduce public infrastructure costs.20
Wetlands/ Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
GOAL EN-4
POLICIES
Policy EN-4.1
Policy EN-4.2
Policy EN-4.3
Policy EN-4.4
Policy EN-4.5
Vital and self-sustaining fish and wildlife habitat areas and habitat
corridors are protected and restored and that provide, where
appropriate, opportunities for recreational and educational uses.21
Restore, protect, and enhance watershed functions and values through
environmentally critical area restoration projects on public and private
land to build resilience to climate change through ecological solutions.
Restoration projects should improve habitat corridors and connections,
particularly in riparian management zones and floodplain wetlands,
wherever feasible.22
Develop best management practices (BMPs) for stormwater
management and related maintenance activities to avoid impacts to
riparian management zones or other environmentally critical areas.
Where riparian vegetation is disturbed through development or
maintenance activities, restoration should be required to preserve the
functions and values of the habitat.24
Identify staff, financial support, or funding opportunities for restoration
projects, wherever feasible, to enhance anadromous fish habitat in
riparian management zones, wetlands and the Green/Duwamish River,
including projects identified in the Shoreline Master Program (SMP)
Habitat Restoration Program, the Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA)
9 Salmon Habitat Plan, WRIA 9 Duwamish-Green Watershed
Restoration and Enhancement Plan, or other regional watershed
restoration plans.25
Ensure that new development, open space protection efforts, and
mitigation projects support the State's streamflow restoration law.
Promote robust, healthy, and sustainable salmon populations and other
ecosystem functions, working closely within WRIA 9 and utilizing
adopted watershed plans.26
Prohibit piping of watercourses, except where unavoidable for access
purposes. Wherever feasible and practical, encourage removal of piped
sections of watercourses when permitting any new or redevelopment
activities to improve riparian habitat functions and values.27
Natural Environment EN - 13
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DRAFT
Policy EN-4.6
GOAL EN-5
POLICIES
Policy EN-5.1
Prohibit creation of new fish barriers and, where possible, encourage
elimination of existing barriers to fish passage through implementation
of capital improvement projects, coordination with regional partners
and the WRIA 9 Lead Entity to seek funding opportunities, and by
providing incentives to private sector development.28
Riparian management zones, floodplains, wetlands, and their
buffers are protected from encroachment and degradation and
improved through impact avoidance, mitigation, enhancement, and
restoration projects to increase resiliency to impacts from climate
change29.
Regulate land use and development, using Best Available Science, to
protect and improve natural vegetation and hydrology, habitat corridors,
and open spaces, to prevent significant erosion, sedimentation, or
degradation of areas of potential geologic instability, wetlands,
floodplains, fish and wildlife habitat areas and their associated
buffers.3o
Policy EN-5.2 Ensure mitigation sequencing is applied to avoid or minimize impacts to
environmentally critical areas, consistent with federal and State
guidelines.31
Policy EN-5.3 Require and enforce mitigation in order to ensure no net loss of
environmentally critical area functions, as well as mitigation designed to
replace environmentally critical area acreage lost due to development.32
Policy EN-5.4 Ensure the effectiveness of environmentally critical area mitigation by
improving City oversight, tracking, and monitoring of mitigation sites.33
Policy EN-5.5 Allow off -site wetland mitigation only when a site -specific study,
prepared by a qualified professional, documents that there are no
feasible opportunities for on -site mitigation, is greater functional
benefit, no significant adverse impact to the drainage sub -basin, and no
significant adverse impact to existing wetlands or riparian management
zones.34
Policy EN-5.6
Consider creating a City in -lieu fee program for future wetland
mitigation, or collaborate with King County to establish in -lieu fee sites
in Tukwila for wetland restoration projects, including projects along the
Green/Duwamish River shoreline, when a site specific study, prepared
by a qualified professional, documents that there are no feasible
opportunities for on -site mitigation.35
Natural Environment EN -14
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DRAFT
Policy EN-5.7
In collaboration with other agencies, develop a program to provide
guidance to property owners interested in restoring or enhancing
environmentally critical areas, shorelines or associated buffers on their
private property that public or private sector projects can utilize to
compensate for impacts on project sites that lack opportunities for on -
site mitigation.36
Water Quality and Quantity
GOAL EN-6
POLICIES
Policy EN-6.1
Policy EN-6.2
Policy EN-6.3
Policy EN-6.4
Policy EN-6.5
Policy EN-6.6
Protect, enhance and plan for changing conditions of Tukwila's
water resources for the benefits of recreation, fish and wildlife
resources and habitat, flood protection, and open space to create a
more climate resilient city for current and future generations.37
Retrofit existing City surface water systems and improve surface water
management through use of low -impact development (LID) techniques
for all new development and redevelopment to improve the water
quality of discharges.38
Prevent and reduce pollution and sedimentation of water resources
through implementation of surface water, stormwater, and land clearing
regulations and inspections.3s 40
Adopt policies, regulations, and processes, related to new or existing
fossil fuel facilities, which are designed to protect and preserve natural
ecosystems from the construction and operational impacts of fossil fuel
facilities, and prepare for and mitigate any impacts of fossil fuel
disasters the community.41
Prohibit the application of pesticides (insecticides, herbicides,
fungicides, algaecides, rodenticides, etc.) to surface water systems or
their buffers, unless warranted to protect ecological functions of the
system, and inform applicators about State pesticide licensing
regulations.42
Develop public outreach materials and implement management
programs to reduce the use of chemicals including fertilizers and
pesticides, having negative impacts on surface water systems or their
buffers, unless warranted to protect ecological values and functions. 43
Prevent, mitigate, and remediate harmful environmental pollutants and
hazards, including light, air, noise, soil, and structural hazards, where
they have contributed to racialized health or environmental disparities,
and increase environmental resiliency in frontline communities.44
Natural Environment EN - 15
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DRAFT
GOAL EN-7 Surface water generated by urban development does not exceed
pre -development discharge rates.
POLICIES
Policy EN-7.1
Flood Control
GOAL EN-8
POLICIES
Require that all proposed development applications identify hydrologic
features, both on- and off -site, that could be impacted by the project.
Evaluate and prevent project impacts on on -site and off -site floodplains,
wetlands, drainage features and springs to avoid adverse impacts to
existing environmentally critical area hydrology to meet today's climate
needs and prepare for future climate needs.49
Protect and enhance the natural flood attenuation functions of
wetlands, floodplains and floodways and plan for increased
seasonal flooding associated with climate change to reduce and
prevent damage to life, property, and public safety.5°
Policy EN-8.1 Restrict or prohibit development that could create a danger to health,
safety, and property due to potential flood hazards.51
Policy EN-8.2 Coordinate and fund holistic flood hazard management efforts through
the King County Flood Control District.52
Policy EN-8.3 Work cooperatively to meet regulatory standards for floodplain
development as these standards are updated for consistency with
relevant federal requirements including those related to the Endangered
Species Act. Ss
Policy EN-8.4
Policy EN-8.5
Wetlands provide services that have the potential to reduce impacts of
climate change. As such the City of Tukwila will promote wetland
restoration and enhancement throughout the City and ensure that
development avoids and minimizes impacts to wetlands and their
buffers and provides compensatory mitigation to retain equal or greater
wetland functions and values within the same drainage basin or
watershed, and results in no net loss of wetland area except in limited
circumstances.54
Plan for changes in seasonal flood events associated with climate
change and reduce flooding that adversely affects public health, safety,
and general welfare, and protect against flood damage through surface
water and flood management projects.55
Natural Environment EN - 16
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DRAFT
Policy EN-8.6
Policy EN-8.7
Earth Resources
GOAL EN-9
POLICIES
Policy EN-9.1
Policy EN-9.2
Policy EN-9.3
Policy EN-9.4
Minimize adverse impacts to water resources by conserving native
shoreline vegetation or using bioengineering and natural solutions to
enhance stream fat banks and shoreline stability and reduce hazards
associated with slope failures and erosion. Invasive plant removal and
replacement of native trees and shrubs should be prioritized over
retention of low functioning vegetation.56
Require mitigation to achieve the goal of no net loss of ecological
functions and maintenance of good water quality by requiring setbacks,
buffers, and stormwater treatment and detention facilities to adhere to
BAS recommendations and guidelines.'
Protect the ecological integrity of the natural environment, including
functions and services, while allowing for compatible growth and
development by minimizing development in geologically hazardous
areas and protecting surface water features.58
In geologically hazardous areas, require areas where vegetation must
remain undisturbed, land disturbance minimized and cut -and -fill
construction limited, to protect slope stability on sites cleared for
development. Require significant replanting and maintenance upon
completion of development.
Require setbacks for buildings and other infrastructure where needed,
from the top and/ or toe of steep slopes, to reduce risks of slope failure
and risks to public safety.
Require the use of erosion control measures and, where warranted,
written erosion and sediment control plans, to minimize erosion during
and after construction activities on steep slopes or other erosion -prone
areas.
Utilize geotechnical reports and other existing resources to update the
City's GIS data to incorporate and maintain a geologically hazardous
areas layer.59
Policy EN-9.5 Ensure that proposed development projects in mapped coal mine
hazard areas adequately consider and mitigate for possible risks.
Natural Environment EN - 17
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DRAFT
Policy EN-9.6
Urban Forestry
GOAL EN-10
POLICIES
Policy EN-10.1
Policy EN-10.2
Policy EN-10.3
Policy EN-10.4
Policy EN-10.5
Policy EN-10.6
Policy EN-10.7
Actively manage protective forest canopies on geologically hazardous
slopes, both public and private, through regulatory requirements,
incentives, investment, and partnerships.
Trees are recognized by Tukwila citizens, businesses, City staff and
decision -makers for their benefits to the environment, climate
adaptation, urban infrastructure, and their aesthetic value.6o
Develop a formal urban forest management plan to promote and guide
preservation, restoration and maintenance of a sustainable urban forest
that is consistent with tree canopy goals and ecosystem management
priorities, using the goals and policies of this chapter as a basis for
guidance'
Ensure that the benefits of trees are factored into site design, zoning and
permit decisions, including resistance to drought, retention of large or
significant trees, tree canopy considerations, and the preservation of
open space, tree, and green space.62
Continue to fund an urban forester/municipal arborist position within
the City, to provide expertise for urban forest management planning,
incorporate climate resiliency strategies, provide oversight of tree
planting and maintenance, and assistance to all City departments that
have responsibilities for tree management.64
Educate the public, elected officials and City staff about the importance
of urban forest planning and management and benefits provided by
trees in Tukwila.65
Develop tree valuation methods to reflect the value trees provide,
including considering the benefits that trees provide in a changing
climate for use in assessing fines, determining damages, or estimating
loss of tree benefits.66
Identify funding sources to support urban forestry planning and
management and establish an urban forestry budget and account to
preserve and enhance the urban forest sites on publicly -owned
property.'
Consider developing an "exceptional" or "heritage" tree program to
foster tree appreciation in the community and encourage retention of
open and green spaces.68
Natural Environment EN - 18
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DRAFT
Policy EN-10.8
Policy EN-10.9
GOAL EN-11
POLICIES
Policy EN-11.1
Policy EN-11.2
Policy EN-11.3
Policy EN-11.4
Policy EN-11.5
Enhance the urban tree canopy to provide wildlife habitat, support
community resilience, mitigate urban heat, manage stormwater,
conserve energy, protect and improve mental and physical health, and
strengthen economic prosperity. Prioritize places where Black,
Indigenous, and other People of Color communities; low-income
populations; and other frontline community members live, work, and
play.69
Encourage public and partner organization involvement in urban forest
stewardship, through volunteer events, free training workshops, and
other related community events.70
Overall City tree canopy increased in diversity and total cover, with
an increase in the use of native species, by 2034, and No Net Loss of
canopy cover in individual zoning categories, or environmentally
critical areas and open spaces"
The City shall adopt and implement updated tree canopy goals and shall
continue to amend policies to support stormwater management and
water quality improvement in receiving waters. The City will provide
mapping of City -owned or operated properties with tree canopy no later
than December 31, 2028, as based on available existing data."
Promote and support a systematic approach to enhancing the city
through carefully planned plantings and ongoing maintenance of street
trees, public landscaping, and open spaces to support a sustainable
and environmentally just future for residents of Tukwila.73
Promote soil stability using natural drainage systems and retention of
existing native vegetation when determined feasible and practical by a
qualified geotechnical engineer in a site -specific assessment.74
Conduct forest practices within environmentally critical and shoreline
areas in a manner that ensures water quality, maintains, or increases
tree canopy cover, and maintains native vegetation buffer strips
sufficient to protect fish populations and to avoid erosion of stream
banks."
Ensure that required replacement trees at maturity will provide an
equivalent or greater shade cover than the removed tree(s), and
replacement trees are suitable species fit for future conditions based on
climate change models. This may result in the need to have multiple
trees replace a single tree and will allow for the flexibility of avoiding
Natural Environment EN - 19
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Policy EN-11.6
Policy EN-11.7
Policy EN-11.8
conflict with existing or future infrastructure and/or public or private
utilities.76
Promote the utilization of grants and other funding opportunities to
develop tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs for City
parks, open spaces, wildlife habitats and corridors, and other publicly
owned lands.
Collaborate with other agencies, such as Washington's Department of
Transportation, to promote planting in highway interchanges and other
locations that are underserved or at higher risk to being vulnerable to the
effects of climate change.'
Collaborate with other government, non-profit organization, school, and
private sector entities, to promote urban forest management and
restoration, the use of native plants in the urban landscape, and
removal of impervious surfaces to support the City's tree canopy
cover goals and mitigate the urban heat island effect.82
The addition below was inadvertently omitted for the version considered by the
Planning Commission. This language was recommended by our consultant
Policy EN-11.8
Develop tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs for City
parks and other publicly -owned lands. Collaborate with other
government, non-profit organization, school, and private sector
entities, to promote urban forest management and restoration, the
use of native plants in the urban landscape, and removal of
impervious surfaces to support the City's tree canopy cover goals and
mitigate the urban heat island effect.
Policy EN-11.9
Evaluate current development requirements to identify opportunities to
increase tree canopy, and opportunities to remove pavement and install
appropriate plantings. Priority should be given to areas or zoning
designations that are currently underserved or lack proximity to public
open spaces and recreational areas.84
GOAL EN-12 Tukwila's streetscapes and landscaped areas are sustainable and
attractive, and its urban forest is healthy, diverse, and safe.
Natural Environment
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DRAFT
POLICIES
Policy EN-12.1
Policy EN-12.2
Policy EN-12.3
Policy EN-12.4
Policy EN-12.5
Conduct periodic tree/urban forest inventories and assess the health of
trees and forests in Tukwila's public spaces to determine maintenance
needs and restoration opportunities. Any restoration should be done in
coordination with Policy EN-13.8.85
Develop maintenance plans and programs for trees on City property or
rights -of -way to ensure that maintenance pruning is properly carried
out, that diseases and pest infestations are managed, that hazardous
trees are identified and managed in a timely manner to reduce risks,
invasive vegetation is properly managed, and any replacement trees are
sustainably located following the concept of "right tree, right place."'
Consistent with landscape code requirements, educate property
owners, property managers, City and public and private utility
maintenance staff, and landscape contractors to promote best
practices for soil preparation, planting techniques, pruning (including
near utility lines), trenching, root protection, and general tree care.87
Enforce landscape regulations including financial guarantees,
monitoring, and maintenance to ensure successful plant establishment.
Landscape code should state qualified professional requirements for
landscape design, installation and maintenance.88
Ensure landscape code considers wildlife habitat corridors and urban
heat island effect in landscape development standards. This includes
requiring a diversity of tree species native to the ecoregion in landscape
planting plans as site conditions allow. 89
CLIMATE CHANGE
Goal EN-13:
Policy EN-13.1
Tukwila infrastructure and investments enable Tukwila residents to
make choices that emit lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Adopt and implement policies and programs that support King County's
target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2040 (compared
to a 2007 baseline), including net -zero emissions through carbon
sequestration and other strategies, by 2050. Evaluate and update these
targets over time to incorporate the latest climate science and
statewide targets aimed at limiting the most severe impacts of climate
change and keep global warming growth under 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7
degrees Fahrenheit).94
Policy EN-13.2 Plan for development patterns that minimize air pollution and
greenhouse gas emissions, through the following actions:
Natural Environment EN - 21
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DRAFT
a. Direct growth to Urban Centers and other mixed -use or high -density
locations that support mass transit, encourage non -motorized
modes of travel, and reduce trip lengths.95
b. Through interjurisdictional and local efforts, facilitate modes of
travel other than single -occupancy vehicles including transit,
walking, bicycling, and carpooling;96
c. Encourage the transition to a sustainable energy future by reducing
demand through efficiency and conservation, supporting the
development of energy management technology, and meeting
reduced needs from sustainable sources.97
d. Support and provide incentives to increase the percentage of new
development and redevelopment— both public and private —to be
built at higher -performing energy and environmental standards.
e. Implement infrastructure design manuals that incorporate energy
saving strategies and develop regulations that provide extra
flexibility or density bonuses to proposals that implement green
building standards, such as the Living Building Challenge or LEED
certification.98
Policy EN-13.3 Reallocate public space dedicated to carbon intensive uses, such as
single occupant vehicle lanes and parking, toward transit, pedestrian,
and bike facilities.99
Policy EN-13.4 Develop minimum standards for rights -of -way and new private streets
that require facilities for safe protected bicycle and pedestrian routes to
all destinations.101
Policy EN-13.5 Ensure all federal and state air quality standards are met and reduce
emissions of air toxics and greenhouse gases.102
Policy EN-13.6 Recognize that dense development utilizes less resources per person
and promote greater densities and mixed uses near Tukwila's urban
centers and high -capacity transit. Work with local transit and
transportation agencies to provide additional multi -modal access and
transit frequency to underserved areas.103
Policy EN-13.7
Policy EN-13.8:
Recognize, protect, restore, and enhance Tukwila's natural resources,
by expanding or improving existing parks, wetlands, estuaries, and the
urban tree canopy, and enhance access to passive and active recreation
areas, improving air and water quality, and improving opportunities for
carbon sequestration in Tukwila.104
Prioritize investments in areas in proximity to underserved and
historically marginalized populations in order to ensure that all Tukwila
residents have equal access to public spaces, natural areas, the urban
tree canopy, and the opportunity to make low -emission choices in a
Natural Environment EN - 22
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DRAFT
Policy EN-13.9
low -pollutant environment, regardless of their race, social, or economic
status.'os
In order to minimize air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions,
facilitate modes of travel other than single -occupancy vehicles
including transit, walking, bicycling, and carpooling, plus, for trips that
must be made via single -occupant vehicle, facilitate electric vehicle
adoption by creating requirements for electric vehicle charging
installations in residential and commercial developments.'os
RELATED INFORMATION
Natural Environment Background Report
Tukwila Sensitive Areas Map
Tukwila Shoreline Master Program
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Enhancement Plan
Abandoned Underground Coal Mine Hazards Assessment Report
Tukwila Urban Tree Canopy Assessment
Tukwila Municipal Code, Chapter 18.45
Green Tukwila 20-year Stewardship Plan
3 "Green" stormwater infrastructure is designed to mimic nature and capture rainwater where it falls. See
Glossary.
4https://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/elected/executive/consta ntine/news/release/2021/june/23-heat-mapping-results
s The 2023 canopy is completed — we are dissecting the data to finalize the summary at this time
There was a missing goal 3 during review, and Gola 10 was moved to Capital Facilities. These goals and
policies have been renumbered to be sequential.
$ Required by GMA goals
9 Policy K_EN-2;
10 EN-2
'Consultant addition; other recycling policies are in Capital Facilities: partial K_EN-2
13 Consultant: Consider incentivizing measures that are resilient to a changing climate. Other practices
that utilize the most current water conservation technologies and strategies such as water -smart
landscapes, rainwater harvesting, and green infrastructure should also be considered and incentivized.
14 K_EN-20, a-f
19 This policy should encourage collaborative efforts with the community to help ensure ecosystem
functions are retained and are resilient to climate change.
Natural Environment EN - 23
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DRAFT
20 Climate change is anticipated to impact water resources by increasing the frequency and severity of
flooding and temperature -related impacts.
"The inclusion of habitat corridors will aid in the protection of the function and values of fish and wildlife
habitat conservation areas, as well as other environmentally critical areas.
22 Supporting restoration opportunities that reconnect floodplain wetlands and restore natural processes
will improve water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and mitigate impacts of flooding and erosion. When
planning and prioritizing restoration projects it will be important to identify locations where these efforts
will be most beneficial and effective in the long-term.
24 This policy should plan for increased stormwater management demands associated with increased
flood events to avoid the potential for overflow events and related adverse environmental impacts.
25 This policy should be broadened to include enhancement of anadromous fish habitat, including
salmonids, and utilization of regional Watershed Restoration Plans, when available.
26 En-10
27 This policy should be revised to expand encouragement of removal of piped watercourses for any type
of development review and highlights the purpose of removal.
28 Working with regional partners will strengthen this policy and lead to better long term collaboration
and results.
29 Supporting restoration opportunities that reconnect floodplain wetlands and restore natural processes
will improve water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and mitigate impacts of flooding and erosion.
3o Wildlife and plant species and habitats already strained by urban fragmentation will be further stressed
by climate change. Consideration of habitat corridors and open spaces will aid in the protection of the
function and values of environmentally critical areas.
31 This policy should be revised to update the reference to environmentally critical areas.
32 This policy should be revised to update the reference to environmentally critical areas.
33 Portions of the existing policy are requirements in the CAO. It is recommended to revise the goal to
focus on areas of improvement of implementation outside of the existing code requirements.
34 The policy should be reinforced to document that there are no opportunities for on -site mitigation in
compliance with mitigation sequencing.
3s The policy should note the importance of landscape -scale, watershed -based restoration and mitigation
projects and allow the City to consider off -site compensatory mitigation for projects in areas where
compensatory mitigation can be difficult or impractical to achieve.
36 This policy should provide additional specificity on the intent of the program to provide off -site
mitigation opportunities where private property owners are willing to allow project proponents to
conduct restoration or enhancement activities to compensate for impacts that have occurred on another
site.
37 Changing this language aligns this goal with sustainable practices that prioritize economic,
environmental, and social benefits as well as adding a climate element.
38 This language is in line with the Surface Water Management section of the Comprehensive Plan and is
encouraged by the WA Dept. of Ecology. This will also allow for the elimination of policy 4.7.6 as it was
incorporated into this policy.
39 While sediment is a type of water pollutant this policy should address all pollutants. Additionally, this
policy should be expanded to include all erosion, not just erosion associated with streambanks and
channels, this includes nearby hillsides and upland areas under development.
49 Similar to K-EN-24.
41EN-26,c&b
42 Was part of 4.7.3, but made a separated policy because of focus, application vs. education- see 4.7.4
43 Pesticides is an all -encompassing term and examples of pesticides do not need to be included. Nutrient
loading, partially caused by lawn and garden fertilizers, are a common cause of diminished water quality
Natural Environment EN - 24
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and should be included in this language. Human health should not be included under this policy as this
policy is applicable to water quality and as such having good water quality will support human health.
Applicators should already be aware of State pesticide licensing regulations and if not, then this could be
considered one of the public outreach materials that are discussed within this policy (put into new policy
4.7.4).
44 EN-25
49 This policy could either be removed, as it should be a requirement of the development code however
adding language specific to climate change allows for it to be retained as a policy.
s° This changed language is in line with Climate Change projections for Washington State and will help
utilize the natural floodplain to protect the city of Tukwila.
sl Complying with federal regulations is not optional. Eliminate this language as it is a requirement and
should already be occurring with development permits.
52 EN-12
53 EN-13
54 This revised policy is better in line with BAS and incorporates the climate element.
55 Climate change models predict an increase in winter rainfall events which has the potential to lead to
increased seasonal flooding. By planning for these events the city will be able to prevent or reduce the
adverse impacts associated with flood events.
56 This revision will allow for the abatement of noxious weeds and low functioning vegetation while
encouraging the retention of native plant species.
s' This policy revision will help demonstrate compliance with the GMA requirement of BAS.
58 By protecting the functions and services of the natural environment and reducing development in
geologically hazardous areas the city can help reduce costs associated with flooding, erosion, and other
natural disasters.
'The are many resources currently available that contain geologically hazardous areas information. The
WA Department of Natural Resources has a Geologic Information Portal available to the public at
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/geologyportal.
'Trees can aid in mitigating the impacts of climate change by providing shade, carbon storage and other
related benefits.
61 Urban heat island effect can be mitigated through establishment and retention of tree canopy. Open
spaces and native landscaping should be managed to maintain ecosystem functions and contribute to
habitat connectivity on a City-wide landscape -scale.
62 Development actions, such as converting forests into impervious surfaces, can increase the urban heat
island effect. Encouraging the preservation of open spaces and considering trees that are resistant to
drought can help reduce the impacts of climate change.
64 A licensed arborist or urban forester benefits the City by providing guidance on appropriate strategies
that will improve the resiliency of planned or existing urban forests to the impacts associated with a
changing climate.
65 This policy could be expanded to include the importance of urban forest planning and management for
clarity and continuity with the other policies in this section.
66 The assessment of tree valuation should include the future benefits that trees provided in contributing
to climate resiliency, particularly for shade and carbon storage.
67 This policy should be expanded to define the purpose of the urban forestry planning and management
fund to support City departments that have responsibilities for tree management and preservation.
68 Open spaces contribute to habitat connectivity and ecosystem functions. Retention of tree canopy can
help mitigate the urban heat island effect.
69 EN-11
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70 This policy should be expanded to clarify "other means". Promotion of community events could help
encourage public participation and highlight the importance of urban forest stewardship.
71 This policy will be modified upon finalization of the 2023 tree inventory data; it has been broadened,
while still retaining the intent of increased canopy and no net loss. By proposing to increase diversity of
trees, as well as total canopy cover, the City will be more likely to resist the effects of a changing climate.
Per the 2024-29 NPDES permit, by December 31, 2028, Permittees will need to adopt and implement the
City's updated tree canopy goals and policies to support stormwater management and water quality
improvement in receiving waters.
72 Per 2024-29 NPDES permit
73 Most of these policy points are implemented into other policies within this section. Proposed language
encompasses these points in addition to addressing the urban heat island effect which can have
detrimental effects on residents in underserved areas. By promoting and enhancing tree canopy cover
and access to open space the public welfare and urban habitat areas can be greatly improved.
74 It is important to promote the use of native vegetation to stabilize slopes when site conditions allow,
however certain circumstances may require other methods of soil stabilization.
'This language will add clarity to the importance of the urban canopy in environmentally critical areas
and the role they play in maintaining ecological integrity of these areas.
76 It is not always appropriate or desirable to have a species with a larger tree canopy. Preferred language
would result in greater shade cover without necessarily required a larger canopy from a single tree.
81 There are many opportunities for grants and other funding sources that should be utilized whenever
possible. The proposed language will help promote these funding sources while expanding the areas that
can benefit from these programs while preparing for a changing climate and making Tukwila a more
equitable place for its residents.
82 Broadening the language of this policy will help address not just the tree canopy but other factors that
play a role in mitigating the effects of a changing climate.
84 This policy could be broadened to include all development standards, not just parking lot landscaping
standards, within each zoning designation while also promoting equity.
85 Periodic maintenance and coordination with restoration efforts supports the sustainability goal. 13.8 =
"Develop tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs for City parks and other publicly -owned
lands. Collaborate with other..."
86 Streetscapes and utility corridors must be managed for public safety and long-term sustainability.
Ensuring that tree management is based on expert advice that considers surrounding land use is
important to reduce maintenance needs and increase sustainability. This may involve a plan that provides
approved lists of tree species for specific land uses (e.g., city street, utility corridor).
87 Simplified policy language. The focus here is on education.
88 Simplified policy to apply more broadly. This revision is consistent with current regulations under TMC
18.52— Landscape Requirements. Qualified professional standards are listed under Landscape Plan
Requirements TMC 18.52.110. Current code requires professional certifications for design; BMPs are
noted for installation and maintenance.
S9 Cleaned up policy language and included references to climate change stressors and resiliency
strategies.
94 EN-27
9s K_EN-28a.
96 K_EN-28b and d
97 K_EN-4
98 K_EN28C and E
99 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
101 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
Natural Environment EN - 26
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102 WAC 173-420-080, MPP-En-22
103 K_EN-28a, and d
104 K_EN-32
105 K_EN5 and EN-25
106 EN-30
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S4oreeiie
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER
• A discussion of shoreline areas in the City of Tukwila;
• An overview of the Shoreline Management Act and how it applies in Tukwila;
• Goals and Policies for managing development in shoreline areas; and
• A map of Tukwila's adopted Shoreline Environment Designations.
PURPOSE
This element of the City's Comprehensive Plan presents goals and policies related
to development and restoration along the Green/Duwamish River — a shoreline of
Statewide significance subject to the Washington State Shoreline Management Act
(SMA) — which flows northerly through the entire length of Tukwila. A small fragment
of the Black River flows into the Duwamish River just north of Fort Dent Park and is
also subject to the SMA and the goals and policies of this chapter.
The Shoreline Element of the Comprehensive Plan represents the Shoreline Master
Program's role in the community -wide planning process. It reflects the relationship
between shoreline development and other Comprehensive Plan goals and policies,
and the importance of a shoreline vision to a community vision. The Shoreline
Element identifies existing local and regional policies, land use and shoreline
conditions, and sets forth shoreline goals and the policies for achieving them. These
goals and policies reflect Tukwila's priorities in these areas:
• Facilitating redevelopment and prioritizing water -dependent industrial uses
in the Manufacturing/Industrial Center (MIC) and encouraging
redevelopment in the Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) that recognizes the river
as a valuable resource.
• Ensuring the safety of new development from flooding and from destabilized
riverbanks by establishing setbacks for new construction. Setbacks will
allow for eventual replacement of existing flood control levees and regrading
of over -steepened banks.
• Increasing public access to the river.
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• Supporting restoration of habitat along the river through a restoration plan in
the Shoreline Master Program. Restoration is accomplished, in part, through
removing invasive vegetation and replacing it with native species,
constructing off -channel habitat, and setting back levees to incorporate a
mid -slope bench that can be planted to improve habitat.
Shoreline policies encourage high -quality development and redevelopment along
the river. At the same time, they recognize the value of the Green/Duwamish River
as an aesthetic resource by encouraging new development in the urban center to
"face" the river, providing views and public or private access to the shoreline. The
policies also recognize the shoreline as an important natural resource that requires
protection and restoration of shoreline ecological functions (such as habitat,
surface water and flood attenuation, water quality improvement and others).
Policies in the Master Program support restoration of shoreline ecological
functions, particularly improved habitat for endangered fish species (Chinook
salmon and Pacific Bull Trout).
As a whole, the Tukwila Shoreline Master Program acts as the implementation
mechanism for achieving these goals and policies.
WHAT IS THE SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT?
The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) was approved by Washington voters in 1972
and is designed to prevent degradation of the State's shorelines from
uncoordinated development.
WHERE DOES THE SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT APPLY?
Each city and county defines their own shoreline jurisdiction based on the
provisions of the SMA and regulations from the Department of Ecology. The SMA
applies to the following areas:
• Marine waters,
• Streams and rivers that have an average annual flow of at least 20 cubic feet
per second,
• Upland areas within 200 feet of regulated waterbodies, and
• Wetlands and flood -prone areas associated with regulated waterbodies.
Additional information regarding the Shoreline Management Act is available on the
Department of Ecology's website at: https://ecology.wa.gov/water-
shorelines/shoreline-coastal-management/shoreline-coastal-planning/shoreline-
management-act-sma hittp://www.ccy.wa.gov/programs/sc\l/ shorclincs/smp/indcx.htmll
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ISSUES
Department of Ecology guidelines, along with the City's obligations as a participant
in the implementation of the Green/Duwamish Salmon Habitat Restoration Plane,
dictate that Shoreline Master Program policies and regulations be established to
ensure restoration and no net loss of shoreline ecological functions. The major
issue facing the City is balancing the existing and planned future urban
development along the river with these requirements.
The Shoreline Management Act promotes increased recreational opportunities and
public access to the shoreline environment. (Graphic)
SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT PRIORITIES
The SMA designates the Green/Duwamish River as a shoreline of Statewide
significance. "Because these shorelines are major resources from which all people
in the State derive benefit, the [development] guidelines and master programs must
give preference to uses which favor public and long-range goals." [WAC 173-16-
040(5)] 3 The SMA states that master programs for shorelines of Statewide
significance shall give preference to uses that (in order of preference):
1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local interest.
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline.
3. Result in long-term over short-term benefit.
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shoreline.
5. Increase public access to publicly -owned areas of the shoreline.
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the shoreline.
7. Provide for any other element, as defined in RCW 90.58.100, deemed
appropriate or necessary (that is, which further the State's shoreline
policies).
The Washington State Shoreline Management Act requires that, where alterations in
the natural condition of a shoreline are authorized, priority shall be given to the
following uses:
• Single-family residences
• Ports
• Shoreline recreational uses
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• Industrial and commercial developments dependent upon a shoreline
location
• Other developments that will provide an opportunity for a substantial
number of people to enjoy the shoreline.
The policies established in the Tukwila Shoreline Master Program attempt to
balance the river's value as a long-term natural resource for the region with the
demands of intense urban development. The City's Shoreline Master Program also
recognizes that, except for the area north of the Turning Basin, most of the Green
River is not navigable by large commercial vessels and therefore opportunities to
establish water -dependent uses are limited. There has been interest in providing
nonmotorized water access for both recreational use and official city use (e.g.,
police and fire having a place to launch a motorboat).°
GOALS, POLICIES AND STRATEGIES
In 2020, Tukwila's updated its 2011 approved Shoreline Master Program, which is
incorporated by reference as part of this Plan. The goals and policies of this plan
have been —revised to be consistent with the revisions made in the 2020 update of
the City's SMP. some of the 100� Comprehensive Plan goals and policies and
added new ones to address new issues, changed conditions along the river, or new
qu
y
gton state uep
gy•
Tukwila shoreline policies give priority to the economic vitality of the City's two
regional growth centers —the Manufacturing Industrial Center (MIC)niie, and focus
intense multi -purpose urban uses — such as water -enjoyment commercial activity
and public access — in the Tukwila Urban Center. The policies also emphasize the
importance of a variety of shoreline public access methods, both physical and
visual, linked to other areas of the region. They recognize the value of the river as a
natural resource by encouraging restoration — including removal of invasive plants —
of wildlife habitat and native riverbank vegetation, including tree planting.
➢ Shoreline Environment Designations
The two -hundred -foot shoreline jurisdiction that comprises each shoreline
environment is divided lengthwise into a shoreline -adjacent' buffer and outside -
buffer area; and specifies allowed uses are specified for each environment. The
shoreline environments are intended to facilitate the City's long-range objectives
for land and shoreline management, including:
• Ensuring no net loss of ecological shoreline functions;
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• Providing for habitat protection enhancement and restoration, to improve
shoreline ecological functions degraded over time and protection of already -
restored areas;
• Allowing continued and increased urban development in recognition of
Tukwila's role as a regionally -significant industrial and commercial center;
and
• Providing for improved flood control, in coordination with King County and
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The Shoreline Master Program provides more information on buffer size and
function. The adopted buffers for each shoreline environment balance shoreline
ecological function, human life and property protection (including future levee
repair/reconstruction), existing land use patterns, and State and federal agency
policies.
Figure 5-1: Shoreline Management Act Jurisdiction
See image in draft
GOAL-5 1
POLICIES
Shoreline Environment designationsthat meet Washington State
Shoreline Management Act requirements, -_and reflect local
conditions and Tukwila's long-term vision for its shoreline. The
shoreline zone generally extends for 200feet on either side of the
Ordinary High Water mark, consistent with the Washington State
Shoreline Management Act (as illustrated in Figure 5-1).
Shoreline Residential6
Policy 1.1 LINE =DE In the Shoreline
Residential Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
■ Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the
shoreline, or promote preservation of vegetation, open space,
flood plain or sensitive area lands;
■ Development that is compatible with the natural and biological
limitations of the land and water and that will not require
extensive alteration of the shoreline or new "hard" structural
shoreline stabilization. Where possible, the removal of bulkheads,
revetments, levees or other "hard" structural shoreline
stabilization is required. Hard structural shoreline stabilization
may be replaced with alternative bioengineered bank stabilization;
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■ On publicly -owned property, water -dependent or water -related
recreational activities that are compatible with the character of
the shoreline residential areas;
■ Maintenance of existing single-family residential development
patterns and public open space and recreation uses;
■ Residential and recreational development that promotes
vegetation conservation and enhancement, sensitive areas
protection, and maintenance of water quality to assure no net loss
of shoreline ecological functions;
■ Residential and recreational development that contributes to the
restoration of ecological functions in areas where ecological
degradation has occurred over time.
Urban Conservancy Environment
Policy 1.2
. In the Urban Conservancy
Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
■ Development that promotes vegetation conservation and
enhancement, sensitive areas protection, and preservation of
water quality to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological
functions;
■ Water enjoyment uses;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a
shoreline -dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize
flood damage;
■ Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions
provided by vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area
lands;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control,
consider impacts to public views, and allow for the safe,
unobstructed passage of fish and wildlife, particularly those
species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever
feasible and when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
■ Development that is compatible with the natural and biological
limitations of the land and water that do not require extensive
alteration of the shoreline or new shoreline stabilization, except
for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of
commercial and industrial activities where shoreline impacts are
minimized and where there is no net loss of shoreline functions.
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G.1.3 High -intensity Shoreline Environment?
Policy 1.3
In the High -Intensity Environment, priority shall be given to the
following:
■ Water -dependent commercial and industrial uses;
■ Development that promotes vegetation conservation and
enhancement, sensitive areas protection and preservation of
water quality, to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological
functions;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a
shoreline -dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize
flood damage;
■ Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions
provided by vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area
lands;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control,
consider impacts to public views, and allow for the safe,
unobstructed passage of fish and wildlife, particularly those
species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever
feasible and when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
■ Development compatible with the natural and biological
limitations of the land and water that does not require extensive
alteration of the shoreline or new shoreline stabilization, except
for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of
intensive commercial and industrial activities, where shoreline
impacts are minimized and where there is no net loss of shoreline
functions.
Shoreline Environments
Map 5-1: Shoreline Environment Designations
Shoreline Aquatic Environment
Policy 1.4 In the Shoreline Aquatic
Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
■ Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the
shoreline or promote preservation of vegetation, open space,
flood plain or sensitive area lands;
■ Water -dependent uses;
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Photo
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a
shoreline -dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize
flood damage;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control,
consider impacts to public views, and allow for the safe,
unobstructed passage of fish and wildlife, particularly those
species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever
feasible and when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
■ Development compatible with the natural and biological
limitations of the land and water, that does not require extensive
alteration of the shoreline or new shoreline stabilization, except
for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Uses compatible with the adjoining shoreline environments.
The Aquatic Environment applies to areas below the ordinary High Water
Mark of a lake, stream or marine water body.
➢ Shoreline Planning and Management
Tukwila is located in the lower reach of the Green/Duwamish River watershed,
which covers 482 square miles and includes over 93 river miles from the Cascade
Mountains to Elliott Bay. The City's portion of the river covers approximately 13 river
miles; as a result, the City's Shoreline Master Program recognizes that — to be
successful— protection and enhancement of shoreline resources is not only a City
responsibility but also a regional one. The City is a member of the Water Resource
Inventory Area (WRIA) 9, which covers the Green/Duwamish River watershed, and
has adopted the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan that identifies specific actions and
restoration projects to improve salmon habitat.
GOAL 2 Expanded value of the river as a community and regional
resource, through regional coordination of shoreline management
programs and through programs that foster river appreciation and
awareness, involving partnerships among businesses, schools,
residents and government and community organizations.
POLICIES
Policy 2.1
Coordinate shoreline planning and management activities with other
local jurisdictions and their plans — such as the WRIA 9 Salmon
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Policy 2.2
Policy 2.3
Habitat Plan and the King County Flood Hazard Management Plan — to
establish region -wide consistency in addressing river issues with
regional implications, such as economic development, public
access, wildlife habitat, water quality control and flood control.
Promote river stewardship and increase river awareness through
actions which further shoreline goals, such as educational programs,
community activities and partnerships with Tukwila residents,
businesses, schools, government, and community organizations.
Promote and participate in the implementation of the Watershed
Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9 Plan, including supporting the
recommended projects located in Tukwila to improve the habitat
functions of the Green/Duwamish River, as well as the Plan's policies
and goals.
➢ Land Development Use and Economic Vitality
An objective of the City's Shoreline Master Program, identified in the Issue section
of this chapter, is to allow continued and increased urban development in
recognition of the City's role as a regionally- significant industrial and commercial
center, while also ensuring no net loss of shoreline ecological functions. The
following policies address these objectives.
GOAL 3 Development along the shoreline that fosters the economic vitality of
Tukwila while preserving the long-term benefits of the river.
General Policies
Policy 3.1
Policy 3.2
Implement shoreline design guidelines to:
■ Encourage design that views the river as an amenity;
■ Guide the design of shoreline multiple uses;
■ Establish techniques for increasing shoreline multiple use;
■ Prioritize locations for uses; and
■ Encourage removal of invasive species with nonchemical
methods and maintenance of native planted vegetation to
minimize the presence of invasive species.
Design and locate all shoreline development to minimize impacts on
areas identified as important for other river uses, such as wildlife and
aquatic habitat, river vegetation, public access and recreation,
historical resources, and flood control.
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Policy 3.3
Policy 3.4
Policy 3.5
When no other feasible alternative exists, allow structures for water
dependent uses to be placed in the water, or structural reinforcement
of the riverbank, only when this provides a significant, long-term
public benefit, does not interfere with navigation or flood
management, does not cause a loss of shoreline function, or is
essential to a water -dependent use.
Prohibit the construction of new flood control facilities unless
constructed to incorporate habitat restoration features, and work to
remove existing shoreline armoring — where possible — to restore
habitat functions.
Recognize and promote the river's contribution to the economic
vitality of Tukwila, as a valuable amenity for existing and future
businesses which depend on or benefit from a shoreline location.
Policy 3.6 Ensure that shoreline development does not diminish the commercial
navigability of the river.
Tukwila Urban Center Development
Policy 3.7
Design and locate shoreline development in the Tukwila Urban Center
to encourage water enjoyment uses that:
■ Provide for shoreline multiple uses consistent with the underlying
zoning;
■ Provide additional benefits, such as riverbank restoration, fishing
piers, non -motorized boat launches, river views, or interpretive
signs;
■ Support public access to and along the shoreline;
■ Provide water -enjoyment uses as a transition between the river
and non -water uses;
■ Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as
clustering, mixed -use projects, cooperative parking or parking
located under principal structures, and shared utility and access
corridors; and
■ Ensure that new development and re -development in the Urban
Center acknowledges the goal of a continuous street facade along
Christensen Road and the riverfront, and locates parking facilities
to the interior of the lot.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)'
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Policy for Manufacturing Industrial Center Development
Policy 3.8
Policy 3.9
Ensure that non -water dependent shoreline development in the MIC
provides for shoreline multiple uses to the extent that site security
and the success of industrial operations are not jeopardized; ensures
no net loss of shoreline function and provides adequate mitigation for
the loss of shoreline multiple use opportunities.
Allow opportunities for commercial and recreational marinas to
locate in Tukwila downstream of the turning basin, where compatible
with existing and future navigability and existing and future ecological
restoration projects.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)
Development Outside the Tukwila Urban Center or Manufacturing Industrial Center
Policy 3.10 Design and locate shoreline development outside of the Tukwila
Urban Center and the MIC to:
■ Provide for shoreline multiple uses;
■ Provide water -enjoyment uses as transitions between the river
and non -water- dependent uses;
■ Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as
clustering, mixed -use projects, cooperative parking or parking
located under principal structures, and shared utility and access
corridors; and
■ Treat the river as an amenity in the design and location of the
project.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)
p
➢ Private Property Rights
GOAL 4 Protect rights of property owners to reasonable use and
enjoyment of private property through appropriate location,
access to, and design of shoreline uses.
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POLICIES
Policy 4.1
Policy 4.2
Policy 4.3
Policy 4.4
Policy 4.5
Design, locate and manage shoreline uses in a manner that maintains
reasonable use and enjoyment of private property.
Design and locate public access in a way that is appropriate for the
site, depending on site conditions and private property concerns.
Special sensitivity is required for residential property; therefore, all
single-family residential development of four or fewer single-family
residential lots is excluded from requirements to provide private or
public access. Single-family property owners are not exempt from the
responsibility to improve the habitat value of the shoreline
environment.
Maintain flexibility in methods of obtaining access, to allow for
different site conditions and private property concerns that might
conflict with access, such as privacy, safety and security.
Obtain additional easement area to permit the improvement of river
habitat, by setting back levees or removing revetments and other hard
shoreline armoring, and replacing with more habitat -friendly
shoreline treatment.
➢ Shoreline Design Quality
GOAL 5 Enhanced identity of the river as a unique community asset
through high -quality development and public activities that
reflect Tukwila's history and sense of community pride.
POLICIES
Policy 5.1 Require that shoreline development outside of the MIC:
■ Ensures no net loss of shoreline function;
■ Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila river design guidelines;
■ Reflects principles of high -quality design in such areas as site
planning, architecture and landscaping; and
■ Includes setbacks, bulk, height, density, landscape buffers and
provisions for open space that enhance the shoreline
environment.
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Policy 5.2
Photo
Require that shoreline development in the MIC:
■ Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila shoreline design
guidelines;
■ Maintains or enhances the existing visual quality along the river;
■ Provides trees and other landscaping to buffer industrial uses that
are incompatible with other river uses; and
■ Provides amenities that enhance enjoyment of the river by
employees.
Tukwila's Manufacturing/Industrial Center is an important regional industrial
center located along the Duwamish River.
➢ Access and Recreational Use
Public access to shorelines of the State is one of the key goals of the Shoreline
Management Act; of the seven uses identified in RCW 90.58.020 as having
preference in the shoreline, two relate to public access and recreation.
In addition to the Green River Trail, which runs along much of the length of the river
through the City, Tukwila is fortunate to have a number of other public access sites
along the river. The following goals and policies support preserving existing public
access sites and providing additional public access to the river. To support
implementation of these goals and policies, the City's development regulations
include incentives for private development projects to provide public access to the
shoreline.
GOAL 6 Increase the amount and diversity of opportunities for public
recreation and access to and along the river, including visual and
cultural access, access to the water's edge, opportunities for
small boat navigation and access, and connections to other
neighborhoods consistent with the shoreline character.
General Policies
Policy 6.1 Retain and improve areas identified as important in the network of
public access to the river, including cross-town connections, former
railroad rights -of -way and unimproved street -end rights -of -way,
historic sites, unique natural features, or other areas valuable for
their interpretive potential.
Policy 6.2 Maintain existing parks along the shoreline and acquire additional
park land to increase access and recreation opportunities.
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Policy 6.3
Photo
Incorporate river access requirements to guide the design, location,
and management of shoreline public access in all subdivisions and
short plats over four lots, as well as multi -family, commercial, and
industrial development; to identify types of access appropriate and
feasible for various site conditions and locations; and to establish
strategies, funding sources and priorities for acquisition and
enhancement of shoreline public access.
Shoreline rails provide important public access opportunities for Tukwila
residents.
Policy 6.4
Policy 6.5
Policy 6.6
Design, locate and manage public access for diverse types and
variable levels of intensity, in order to minimize impacts on vulnerable
features of the natural environment and to minimize conflicts with
private property uses.
Where shoreline development provides public access areas, reserve
such areas through the means most appropriate for the type, scale
and impacts of the development, such as donation or sale of an
easement or right-of-way to the City.
Support the implementation of the King County Green River Trail — per
the existing King County Green River Trail Master Plan — as well as
pedestrian/bicycle connections with the Trail from properties on the
opposite bank and the expansion of this Trail, where appropriate.
Policies For Development Outside Manufacturing Industrial CenterMl6
Policy 6.7
Require subdivisions, multifamily residential uses, and commercial
and industrial uses along the shoreline to provide a trail for public
access along the river, in areas identified for trail connections
consistent with the King County Green River Trail Master Plan,
Shoreline Master Program, or any other approved access plan.
Require any property not included in the King County Green River Trail
Plan to provide public access or a private natural area in lieu of
physical public access.9
Policy 6.8 Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is designed
to be safe and convenient and includes access amenities such as
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Policy 6.9
benches, drinking fountains, public parking areas, handicapped
access and appropriate lighting, consistent with the shoreline access
guidelines.
Except for single-family residential development of four or fewer
single-family residential lots, shoreline developments shall maintain
views of the water from the shoreline and from upland areas, through
appropriate design of building height, bulk and modulation, windows,
breezeways, and outdoor spaces.
Policy 6.10 Public access improvements should be designed and constructed to:
■ Look and "feel" welcoming to the public.
■ Connect to public areas, street ends, and other pedestrian or
public thoroughfares.
■ Enhance the character of Tukwila.
■ Avoid conflicts with water -dependent uses.
■ Provide for public safety and minimize impacts to private property
and individual privacy and security.
■ Require a low level of operation and maintenance.
■ Ensure that construction (i.e., structures and access pathways)
incorporates environmentally -sensitive design and materials (e.g.,
non -toxic, natural materials).
Policy 6.11 Improve pedestrian connections between the river, Green River Trail
and the Urban Center's commercial, office, and residential uses.
Policies for Development in Manufacturing Industrial Center
Policy 6.12
For MIC properties included in the King County Green River Trail
Master Plan, require shoreline development to provide a trail for
public access along the river.
Policy 6.13 Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is designed
to be safe and convenient, and includes access amenities such as
benches, drinking fountains, public parking areas, handicapped
access, and appropriate lighting, consistent with the shoreline
access guidelines.
Policy 6.14
For MIC properties not included in the King County Green River Trail
Plan, require shoreline development to provide public access or a
private natural area in lieu of public access, or otherwise mitigate the
loss of public access.
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➢ Transportation Within the Shoreline Zone
GOAL 7 Safe corridors and amenities for pedestrians, cyclists, and users
of public transportation, allowing more citizens to access and
enjoy the river.
POLICIES
Policy 7.1
Policy 7.2
Policy 7.3
Policy 7.4
Design and locate transportation uses within the shoreline
jurisdiction to be compatible with shoreline vegetation or other
habitat features, turn -outs or parking areas for public access, boat
ramps, biofiltration swales to protect water quality, public art, or
interpretive signs.
Ensure that transportation uses within the shoreline jurisdiction and
within those corridors identified as river cross -connections provide
safe, convenient and attractive pedestrian, bicycle, and boater
access and facilities for public transportation.
Minimize transportation impacts on the natural environment (such as
noises, odors, and air or water pollution), and enhance the natural
environment wherever possible through planting treeslow impact
development, green stormwater infrastructure, planting trees, -and
other habitat features.10
Encourage maintenance of the river's navigability up to the turning
basin11—where this achieves a greater public interest and a balance
between costs and benefits to the broader community, and impacts
to the habitat functions of the river — in recognition of the historical
significance of navigation and its importance to the economic vitality
of water -dependent uses and the MIC.
➢ Historical Resource Use
GOAL 8 Recognition of the river's contribution to Tukwila history and
community identity through identification, enhancement,
restoration and protection of sites with historic and cultural
value, and through development of interpretive and educational
programs.
POLICIES
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Policy 8.1
Ensure that shoreline development reflects the river's important role
in Tukwila history, and that long-term public use of the river as a
historical resource is protected by providing for the identification,
protection and interpretation of unique historic and archaeological
features.
Policy 8.2 Ensure that public shoreline development reflects the river's natural
features and community traditions.
Policy 8.3 Ensure that archaeological artifacts and sites are protected when
development takes place in the shoreline jurisdiction.
➢ Natural Environment and Habitat Use
The Green/Duwamish River has undergone extensive modifications in the past, to
reduce channel migration and limit the extent and duration of valley flooding by
constructing levees and revetments. These modifications to the river system have
negatively impacted ecological functions, including hydrology, water quality,
riparian habitat and in -stream habitat. River flows have been modified by dam
construction, stream diversion, and urban development. River management and
levees have reduced the connection between the rivers and their floodplains,
changing the spatial extent of habitat, and increasing the potential for negative
water quality impacts. Disturbances to the channel banks have resulted in areas
that are dominated by non-native invasive species. Wood, in the form of riparian
trees and in -channel wood, is generally lacking throughout the system, which has a
negative impact on riparian and aquatic habitats.
The following goals and policies seek to improve the ecological function of the river
system.
Photo
Aerial view of North Winds Weir Off -Channel Habitat (photo courtesy of
WRIA9)
GOAL 9 Restored, enhanced, and protected natural environmental
resources along the river, including trees, wildlife habitat, and
features with value for long-term public, scientific and
educational uses.
POLICIES
Policy 9.1
Ensure that shoreline development results in no net loss of shoreline
ecological function and minimizes impacts on wildlife, and that
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Policy 9.2
Policy 9.3
Policy 9.4
Policy 9.5
significant vegetation, sandbars, wetlands, watercourses and other
critical areas identified as important for habitat are maintained
through the proper location, design, construction, and management
of all shoreline uses and activities.
Ensure that shoreline development and activities protect riverbank
vegetation and, where feasible, restore degraded riverbanks in
accordance with the vegetation management provisions of the
Shoreline Master Program, in order to minimize and compensate for
impacts on fish and wildlife habitat.
Mitigate unavoidable disturbances of significant vegetation or habitat
through replacement of habitat and provision of interpretive features
consistent with the shoreline access guidelines.
Support relief from certain Shoreline Master Program requirements
for properties affected by habitat restoration projects that result in
the movement of the ordinary high water mark.
Support establishing the Transition Zone — given its importance for
subtidal and intertidal habitats — as the priority area for habitat
restoration projects, to allow salmonids to gradually adjust to the
change between fresh and saltwater conditions.12
➢ Water Quality, Surface Water, and Flood Control Use
A system of levees and revetments have been constructed along a major portion of
the river in Tukwila. The City has adopted a minimum levee profile to promote river
bank stability, protect structures, and enhance shoreline ecological functions. The
minimum levee profile incorporates a mid -slope bench that provides a wider river
channel to accommodate higher flows during storm events, and that allows
planting of native vegetation to improve habitat functions. The vegetation on the
mid -slope bench will also reduce the speed of water flows during storm events.
POLICIES
Policy 10.1
Design, locate and manage shoreline development including streets,
flood control projects, surface water drainage and sewer systems,
clearing and grading activities, and landscaping in a manner that
minimizes opportunities for pollutants to enter the river, provides
erosion control, and otherwise protects water quality.
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Policy 10.2
Design, manage and mitigate flood control uses to minimize impacts
on other shoreline uses such as trees and riverbank vegetation,
public access and recreation, and fish habitat; and set them back
from the river, where feasible for the project, with land areas between
the water and the levee set aside as open space for public recreation
or wildlife habitat.
Policy 10.3 Consistent with project feasibility, mitigate unavoidable negative
impacts on other shoreline uses owing to flood control uses through
such measures as restoration of trees and native riverbank
vegetation, provision of public access to the water's edge,
interpretive features, or other mitigation of loss of opportunities for
shoreline multiple uses.
Policy 10.4 Obtain additional easements, where needed, from property owners to
set back levees to improve flood control and shoreline habitat
functions. Where possible, as redevelopment occurs, replace
bulkheads, revetments or other hard bank stabilization with more
natural levees, riverbanks, or other shoreline treatments, to improve
flood control, ecological functions and habitat.
Figure 5-2: Proposed profile for reconfigured levees
➢ Public Health, Safety and Welfare
GOAL 11 Shoreline uses that do not endanger public health, safety and
welfare, or the capacity of the river to provide long-term benefits
and resources to the community.
Policy 11.1 Design, locate and manage shoreline uses, such as capital
improvement projects and private development, in a manner that
does not endanger public health, safety and welfare, and enhances
the capacity of the river to provide long-term benefits and resources
to the community.
➢ Shoreline Use Preferences
Goal 12: Tukwila, in developing and implementing its shoreline master
program for shorelines of statewide significance, including the
Green/Duwamish River, shall give preference to uses in the
following order of preference thatwhich:
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1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local
interest;
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline;
3. Result in long term over short term benefit;
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shorelines;
5. Increase public access to publicly owned areas of the
shorelines;
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the
shoreline;
1,7. Provide for any other element as defined in RCW 90.58.100
deemed appropriate or necessary 13
RELATED INFORMATION
Shoreline Master Program
Washington State Shoreline Management Act
Washington State Department of Ecology -Shoreline Information
Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9: Green/Duwamish Salmon Habitat
Restoration Plan
1 We assume that the Washington Department of Ecology will want this link to be corrected, however we
need to hear back from Ecology that this is acceptable. The 2015 link has been changed to the link shown.
2 This title is another inconsistency that needs to be confirmed with Washington Department of Ecology.
This section of the WAC does not exist — need to confer with DOE on correction.
4 This statement was included at the request of Public Works. It will require DOE approval to include it.
6 This clarification was added to better reflect how Tukwila has interpreted the Shoreline Management Act
requirements.
6 Headers were modified to make this element more consistent with other Comprehensive Plan elements.
These were listed below - they have been moved to a better location; the sequence of these sections has been made
more intuitive.
3 MIC Policies were moved to improve the logical flow of the policies
9 This language is not in the state -adopted Shoreline Element; will need to determine if DOE will allow to stay
10 Language added by Public Works; will need to confirm that Ecology will allow this change.
11 Need to confirm with DOE what is considered "navigable" when smaller craft could travel beyond this point.
12 This language is not exactly what is in the adopted SMP, but is better language: DOE adopted: Support
establishing the Transition Zone as the priority area for habitat restoration projects given its importance for
subtidal and intertidal habitats to allow salmonids to gradually adjust to the change between fresh and
saltwater conditions
13 In adopted SMP; omitted from Tukwila SMP — need to confirm with DOE that this should or shouldn't be retained.
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PAr4s, Recs'eatioi, and Open Space
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER1
• A description of the existing facilities, operations of the system, and
intergovernmental coordination;
• A summary of issues; and
• The goals, policies and implementation strategies to guide development of the
desired future parks, recreation and open space system.
PURPOSE
Tukwila's parks, recreation and open space system provides opportunities for all
residents and workers, all ages, and all cultures and language groups to enjoy
nature, gather together and exercise. This system supports healthy lifestyles,
community interaction and identity, while supporting economic vitality. This system
also provides for interaction with nature, protection and conservation of the
environment, and a walking and biking network for physical activity and
transportation.
The Parks, Recreation and Open Space Element guides decision -making that is
consistent with Washington's Growth Management Act, community priorities, and
related planning efforts and policies, which in turn are the basis for determining the
future of Tukwila's parks, recreation, and open space system. State requirements
and local aspirations are fulfilled by the Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Background Report and the Parks, Recreation and Open Space (PROS)
Comprehensive Plan, which is incorporated by reference in Tukwila's
Comprehensive Plan.
EXISTING SYSTEM AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION
Park Lands
In total, there are 33 park properties in the City's inventory, totaling 260.7 acres of
parks and open space, classified as either a Local Park, Special Use Park or Open
Space, as shown in Table 1.
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• Local parks are mostly located in residential areas and range in size from 0.1
acres (Riverton Mini Park) to 10+ acres and provide places to play, gather,
and/or experience nature.
• Special use parks have a single purpose such as the golf course at Foster
Golf Links, or feature a unique facility or feature that is intended for the entire
community, such as Codiga Park or Duwamish Hill Preserve. As noted
below, some sites are owned or operated by other providers.
• Open space (and undeveloped parcels) Parks are intended for natural green
space preservation, habitat restoration or protection, or similar purpose.
Table 1 — Public Park Facilities in Tukwila
Park Type
Number of Parks Acres
Local Parks 10 47.7
Special Use
Parks 11 182.4
Open Space 12 30.6
33 260.7
Source: City of Tukwila Parks, Recreation, and OpenSpace Plan, March 2023
Of the park and recreation facilities available within the City, several are provided
through agreements and easements with other entitles, such as the Tukwila School
District, Highline School District, King County, and special districts such as the
Tukwila Municipal School District.
Another recreational resource within Tukwila is its trail corridors. Trail Corridors3
flare linear parks that facilitate pedestrian and bicycle movement via trails in an
attractive open space setting. Trails range in length and width and may be located in
utility corridors, along street rights of way, in riparian/natural corridors, or in
conjunction with other easements.
The existing System Map (Figure 1) shows the location of all parks and recreation
resources in the system, comprising developed and undeveloped park lands. Trails,
schools, and recreation sites owned by other providers are also part of this system
and add to the number of resources available in the City. 5
(Figure 1) PROS Existing System Map
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Open Space Network
Although not officially mapped, there is an informal and varied network of
undeveloped land, made up of the river channel and its banks, creek corridors,
landscaped yards and public street trees, and steep valley hills, such as the State
highway rights -of -way. This undeveloped open space creates a green network that
softens the impact of the urban environment in which we live and work. Much of this
informal open space network exists and will be maintained due to community
standards and environmental regulations.
Programs and Services
The City of Tukwila offers a wide range of recreational programs and public services.
The Tukwila Community Center serves a vital role by providing the majority of public
recreation programming and support services in the city. Along with the City -
sponsored programs, the number of park- and recreation -related opportunities
available to Tukwila residents is expanded through neighboring communities,
public schools, private providers and nonprofits. Starfire Sports, SeaTac
Community Center, Tukwila Pool, and the Matt Griffin YMCA provide additional
programs in and around Tukwila.
Intergovernmental Coordination
Tukwila relies on partnerships with several organizations and local governments to
provide services to area residents and to ensure coordination with land use
policies. At the crossroads of the regional trail system, Tukwila coordinates with the
neighboring cities of Renton and SeaTac, and other governments including King
County, to plan, develop and manage the regional trail system. Managing the city's
Green/Duwamish River frontage also requires coordination with local, King County
and Statewide environmental policies and regulations.
The City partners with area schools to increase access to sport fields and
playgrounds in areas that lack parks. The Highline and Tukwila School Districts
partner with the City by leasing former school sites for park uses. In general, public
schools also present an opportunity for access to recreation activities since they
are well distributed in the City, especially in areas without access to park land.
In 2011, Tukwila residents voted to create the Tukwila Metropolitan Park District to
fund and operate the Tukwila Pool. This independent entity provides aquatics
programming at the pool facility located on Tukwila School District property. The
City also works with King County to expand park and recreation opportunities.
ISSUES'
Several community priorities and key needs emerged as a result of outreach and
engagement activities associated with the 2020 PROS Plan. These include:
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Reinvigorated Quality of Existing Parks and Facilities
The community has expressed a desire to elevate the quality of existing parks and
facilities to make them more inviting, comfortable, and stimulating. Reinvesting and
maximizing use of existing resources resonated strongly with residents.
• Enhance basic comfort and safety.
• Stimulate park activities and formats- upgrade or expand features within
existing parks (e.g., community gardens, playgrounds, and areas for dogs).
• Address barriers — increase maintenance and repair/restoration practices,
incorporate sustainable practices and artistic elements into parks.
Safe, Family -Friendly Places
Concern for safety often keeps community members from enjoying parks and trails.
When asked to identify barriers within the park system, respondents most
frequently cited feeling unsafe in certain areas. Respondents also frequently cited
needed maintenance and upgrades to equipment and facilities as key issues.
Overall, community members are seeking changes to support safe, family -friendly
parks throughout Tukwila.
Affordable, Stimulating Experiences For All Ages
Community feedback also noted many opportunities for parks to offer greater
stimulation across all age groups- providing for more things to do and the
introduction of new features, facilities, or activities. Suggestions pointed to a need
for a rich variety of elements to support multiple types of activities, especially those
catering to young children, older youth, teens, adults, and seniors. The Older Adults
Recreational Services Needs Assessment (2019) also highlighted a need to address
social isolation among older adults, which can lead to significant health issues.
Community members are looking for better activation of spaces and more
stimulating experiences. They also noted affordability as an important quality to
maintain.
Close Interaction With Nature
Getting out in nature is the top reason respondents indicated for spending time in
Tukwila parks. Whether getting out to observe, relax, or exercise, community
members enjoy close interaction with nature. Further, participants identified
providing natural, low impact places that support wildlife habitat as the top idea for
improving parks and recreation in the city. Community members value Tukwila's
abundant natural elements: forests, Tukwila Pond, the Green/Duwamish River,
native plants, and animals (particularly salmon). Another high priority was
expanding programs and activities related to nature and outdoor recreation
activities, such as wildlife watching, guided hikes, and Wildlife Fairs.
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Fun Fitness Opportunities
Exercising, playing, and dog walking are among the most popular activities that
draw residents to Tukwila's parks. Community members also value open grass
areas for play and pick-up sports. Overall, features and programs that support
fitness are an important part of Tukwila's system. Beyond competitive sport
facilities, participants are looking for fun play and fitness activities that bring
exercise regimes to parks, expand or close gaps in the trail network (specifically
east -west connectors and loops), and respond to current trends. Providing a variety
of enjoyable ways to stay fit and healthy is particularly crucial in Tukwila, where
recent studies show fewer people exercise as compared to the King County
average.
Expanded Parks/Preserved Open Space
Community members conveyed a sense of urgency around preserving sufficient
open space for future generations to enjoy. Residents appreciate convenient
access to parks and green space for fresh air, exercising, socializing, dog walking,
and screen breaks. Particularly with Tukwila's share of denser housing types (over
60% of housing includes four or more units), anticipated residential development,
and limited land available for new parks, it is crucial to acquire park land to keep
pace with growth. Strategically acquiring land to grow the system may broaden
park access to ensure that every resident is no more than a 10-minute walk from a
high -quality place to play, exercise, enjoy nature, or link to a trail.
Cultural Heritage Inspiration
A strong connection to cultural roots stood out as a distinguishing aspect of
Tukwila's system. The rich cultural heritage of Tukwila can be traced back to the
indigenous people of the area. Participants emphasized the importance of
respecting tribal traditions and values. One of the top ideas for improving the
system is to create unique places that reflect Tukwila's character, history, or
culture. Expanding cultural arts programming, cultural celebrations, and
educational events are community members' highest program -related priorities.
Indigenous peoples' links to nature, stories, arts, and other practices provide
inspiration that can be conveyed through physical designs, as well as through
programming. Participants expressed a desire to hold cultural events as a way to
bring people of different cultures together. The City can explore ways to support
these community led gatherings within parks and community facilities.
Vibrant Urban Water Centerpiece
Community members see the Green/Duwamish River and Tukwila Pond Park as
major assets that could be further accentuated as a focus of the system. The waters
and banks of the 12.5-mile segment of the river sustain fish and wildlife and provide
a serene backdrop to nearby parks and trails. Tukwila can continue to lead in
restoring this urban ecosystem and maintaining the health of the river. Numerous
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responses captured a desire to invest in parks and habitat restoration of green
spaces along the river and within Tukwila Pond Park. Additional ideas involved
expanding river -related recreational activities, such as canoeing or kayaking, and
activating portions of the Green River Trail with vendors, cafes, and river -facing
patios.
Lively Park -Adjacent Commerce
Participants described nearby food, cafes, and other businesses as an important
means of better activating parks. They pinpointed the synergy created between
parks and commerce and expressed a desire to see more local businesses and
development around parks to stimulate park use. Providing places to gather and eat
was also rated among the top ideas for making parks and recreation better in
Tukwila. In addition to providing traditional picnic and gathering areas in parks,
nearby commerce could help meet needs of busy residents, workers, and families
with convenient access to refreshments and park -facing seating areas.
Convenient, Accessible System
Participants identified unsafe, or lack of, pedestrian and bicycle connections as
predominant reasons preventing park use. A long-term goal is for every Tukwila
resident to be within a safe 10-minute walk from a quality park or green space.
Improving walking paths, bike routes, and trails and closing gaps in the system will
facilitate safe and comfortable access. Lack of convenient public transportation
was also indicated as a top barrier. Another critical need involves improved
promotion and wayfinding around parks. Not knowing where Tukwila parks are
located was the top reason respondents identified that keeps them from using
parks. Overall, residents seek to maximize use of park and facility resources by
making access more comfortable and convenient.
PREPARING FOR FUTURE GROWTH$
Tukwila's population has grown slowly in the past with an average annual growth
rate of 2.09% between years 2015 and 2023. This was far lower than the county-
wide average but only about one-third the rate of growth in the nearby jurisdictions
of Renton, Kent and Burien.
In terms of housing unit growth, over the past six years there has been a modest
increase in multi -family construction, with nearly 1,350 units constructed and more
underway. This development has occurred in the northeast part of the Southcenter
District and along the Tukwila International Boulevard Corridor. Per King County's
adopted Growth Targets, Tukwila must plan for and accommodate 6,500 net new
housing units between 2019 and 2044, or roughly another 5,200 between 2023 and
2044 at a pace of about 250 new units per year. New growth may occur in the
Tukwila South District which is zoned for intensive mixed use development, within
the Southcenter District, existing higher density mixed use zones, and within
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existing residential areas due to new state legislation that allows additional units on
single family lots. New residents and visitors will require additional services and
recreation opportunities. New residents and visitors will require additional services
and recreation opportunities.
Figure 2: PROS System Concept Map
GOALS AND POLICIES
Goals and policies guide the desired future of the parks, recreation, and open space
system over the planning period. Policies reflect public needs, past and current
planning efforts and priorities, as well as strategic planning, design and
management principles. The Tukwila Parks, Recreation and Open Space System
Concept Map is the graphic representation of these goals and policies. (Figure 2)
Goal 1: Safe, Convenient and Connected System - Parks,
recreation opportunities, and open spaces are close to
home and work and are interconnected by safe streets,
off-street trails, and public transportation.
POLICIES
Policy 1.1
Policy 1.2
Policy 1.3
Policy 1.4
Create a system of close -to -home recreation opportunities, aiming
for a'/4-mile to' -mile travel distance between most residential uses
and parks and recreation areas. Prioritize historically underserved
communities for open space improvements and investments."
Create a system of close -to -work recreation opportunities, aiming for
a'/4-mile to' -mile travel distance between most employment places
and parks and recreation areas.
Link parks to neighborhood gathering spots and other destinations in
the community and region such as schools, neighboring jurisdictions,
regional parks and natural areas, and major employment centers.
Improve the pedestrian and bicycle environment by creating safe and
efficient connections across busy streets, railways, and the
Green/Duwamish River.
Policy 1.5 Increase physical and scenic connectivity with the Green/Duwamish
River.
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Policy 1.6 Integrate linkages to recreation areas and open spaces when planning
and designing the transportation system.
Policy 1.7 Align parks and recreation programs and services with public transit
service and advertise how to attend by transit.12
Policy 1.8 Continue to provide a safely -designed and maintained trail system. 13
Policy 1.9
Distribute public recreational facilities throughout the City so that
they are easily accessible to residents, visitors, and those who come
to Tukwila to work.
Policy 1.10 Create a trail system that links significant community focal points and
connects the trail network together at strategic points.14
Policy 1.11 Connect concentrations of commercial and retail activity with the trail
network.
Policy 1.12 Maximize potential and capacity of existing parks and recreation
resources to offset existing and future demand.
Policy 1.13 Identify and create opportunities to develop parks, civic places
(including schools) and public spaces, especially in or adjacent to
centers.15
Goal 2: A Network of Green Spaces- Recreational amenities,
historical sites, rivers, wetlands, creeks, and other
natural resources that are connected to each other and
neighboring networks of lands. This network defines
Tukwila as Northwest city and includes visually
significant bands of vegetation that provide protection
for wildlife habitat, and that provide a contrast to the
built environment.
POLICIES
Policy 2.1
Recognize that the City's open space network will be made up of
public and private lands that provide, or have the potential to provide,
many different functions.
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Policy 2.2 Retain and expand the open space network through acquisition,
donation, easements, partnerships and regulation.
Policy 2.3 Coordinate with other regional and local plans to complement and
enhance the Tukwila open space network.
Policy 2.4
Policy 2.5
Integrate natural features, such as daylighting streams, and adding
trees, shrubs, and other plants into the built environment, including
residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
Increase the public's awareness and stewardship of the City's open
space resources and benefits, including examples such as organizing
volunteer events, developing and distributing information."
Policy 2.6 Monitor and maintain natural areas to control invasive species and
other impacts.18
Policy 2.7 Co -locate public infrastructure, environmental and recreational
projects when practicable.19
Goal 6.3:
POLICIES
Policy 3.1
A Sense of Community - Tukwila's parks and recreation
opportunities build community cohesion by providing
places and programs for social interaction and
gatherings of all sizes, with designs that strengthen
community identity.
Design parks and recreation facilities that celebrate unique features
of Tukwila and that contribute to quality of life and neighborhood
needs.
Policy 3.2 Hold community events that encourage interaction between
neighbors and celebrate the diversity of Tukwila.
Policy 3.3 Interpret local culture, history, and environment throughout the
system.
Policy 3.4 Integrate art throughout the City, guided by the Tukwila Municipal Arts
Plan..
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Policy 3.5
Goal 6.4:
POLICIES
Leverage the opportunities presented by multiple redevelopment projects to
expand Tukwila's park and trails system into Tukwila South and Southcenter,
serving the needs of new residents, as well as visitors and workers of this
evolving area.
Opportunities for All- Tukwila's parks, recreation
opportunities, and public services offer something for all
ages, abilities, and cultures, in settings locations and
times that are convenient to as many as possible.
Policy 4.1 Offer flexible recreation programming that is constantly improving and
responding to current trends and community desires.
Policy 4.2 Provide programs, activities and special events that embrace
Tukwila's many cultures, customs and interests.
Policy 4.3 Design accessible parks, facilities, and programs for all ages and
abilities.
Policy 4.4 Increase the capacity at existing parks and recreation facilities to
maximize use and expand public access.
Policy 4.5 Provide indoor and outdoor spaces designed for increased access
and flexibility of use.
Policy 4.6 Consider future growth needs and planned density when providing
parks and recreation opportunities to meet community needs.
Policy 4.7 Expand program options through enhanced partnerships with
businesses and organizations, and through volunteerism.
Policy 4.8 21Develop a city-wide special event permitting process to promote
and encourage tourism, art, culture and sports events.
Policy 4.9
Address mobility and accessibility barriers to parks, facilities, and
programs through the development and implementation of a
transition plan for parks and recreation, consistent with the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
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Policy 4.10 Ensure the provision of a variety of inclusive programs, activities, and
events to better serve persons with physical and/or developmental
disabilities and adapt offerings to encourage social inclusion and
belonging.
Policy 4.11
Provide, promote and encourage reasonable accommodations -
changes, exceptions, modifications or adjustments to rules, policies,
practices, programs or services so that a person with a disability has
an equal opportunity to use and enjoy parks and recreation facilities,
parks and programs.
Policy 4.12 Provide, promote, and encourage meaningful language access so that
persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) can realize improved
access to department programs, services, and information,
consistent with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Goal 6.5:
POLICIES
Policy 5.1
Policy 5.2
Policy 5.3
Policy 5.4
Policy 5.5
Safe, Inviting, and Affordable- Parks and facilities are
safe, well maintained and clean, and programs and
services that are welcoming and accessible for all
people.
Design parks and public spaces using accepted public safety
standards such as Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
Principles (CPTED) or Defensible Space.
Reflect the highest standard of design quality in public developments
to enhance neighborhood quality and set a high design standard for
private development.
Develop site -specific master plans or site designs that guide all major
park improvements and that achieve cohesive design and efficient
phasing of projects.
Involve the community, including expected users and neighborhood
residents, in appropriate aspects of capital project and program
planning and implementation.
Involve community partners and volunteers in the construction and
maintenance of parks to increase the sense of public ownership and
reduce City costs.
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Policy 5.6 Increase access to affordable, free, or reduced -cost programs and
services.
Policy 5.7 Expand awareness of the full range of program offerings and
recreation options made available by the City and others.
Policy 5.8 Maintain parks and public spaces so that they are safe, clean, and
welcoming.
Goal 6.6:
POLICIES
Healthy People and Places - Parks and recreation
opportunities that promote healthy, active lifestyles are
designed and managed to engage and enhance the
natural environment and the local economy.
Policy 6.1 Provide services for all ages to encourage community members to try
new activities and build a habit of healthy living.
Policy 6.2 Promote healthy food choices and active living programs as a central
focus for community education.
Policy 6.3 Strive to create projects and programs that provide social, economic,
and environmental benefit to the community.22
Policy 6.4
Policy 6.5
Leverage the park, recreation, and open space system to meet the
needs of the residents while considering economic development and
needs of visitors, business, and workers.
Provide public education resources and volunteer opportunities to
promote understanding and appreciation of Tukwila's natural
environment and Green/ Duwamish River ecosystem, while building an
environmental stewardship ethic in the community.
Policy 6.6 Encourage and support the use of public lands for urban agriculture
activities through existing and new programming or partnerships.23
Policy 6.7 Consider long-term management, operations. and maintenance
needs when implementing new projects and programs.
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Policy 6.8
Employ best practices in managing facilities, parks, and open space
areas, and provide continuing education for City staff on these
practices.
RELATED INFORMATION
• Parks, Recreation and Open Space Final Draft (March 2020)
• Parks. Recreation and Open Space, Technical Supplement, September 2019
• Older Adults Recreational Services Needs Assessment (March 2019)
• Public Arts & Culture Master Plan (January 2018)
• Green Tukwila 20-Year Stewardship Plan (2017)
• Tukwila Pond Park Master Plan (January 2022)
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Appendix A
LOCAL PARKS
Park
57th Avenue South Park
Cascade View Community Park
Crystal Springs Park
Hazelnut Park
Riverton Mini Park
Tukwila Park
Total
Crestview Park
Duwamish Park
Riverton Park
Total
Joseph Foster Memorial/Lee Philips Park
Total
TOTAL LOCAL PARKS
SPECIAL USE PARKS
Special Use Park
Bicentennial Park
Codiga Park
Duwamish Gardens
Duwamish Hill Preserve
Fort Dent Park (Starfire Sports Complex)
Foster Golf Links
Ikawa Park (Japanese Garden)
Macadam Winter Garden & Wetlands
Tukwila Community Center
Tukwila Pond Park
Total
Tukwila Pool
Total
TOTAL SPECIAL USE PARKS
OPEN SPACE
Open Space
Black River Lot
Christensen Road Property/Riverview Plaza
Riverfront
Interurban Hill Lot
Siccardi Parcel
Southgate Park
TIB Parcel
Tukwila Hill
Tukwila Parkway
Wilcox Drive/Pamela Drive Open Space
Cecil Moses Memorial Park
Lookout Park
North Wind's Weir
P-17 Pond
Acres Ownership
0.4 City of Tukwila
2.4 City of Tukwila
11 City of Tukwila
0.6 City of Tukwila
0.1 City of Tukwila
6.4 City of Tukwila
City of Tukwila
10.9 Highline School District
2.1 Tukwila School District
Total Acres
4.9 Tukwila School District
School District
8.9 Tukwila School District, City of Tukwila
Tukwila School District, Citylir
Acres Ownership
1.3 City of Tukwila
6.7 City of Tukwila
2.2 City of Tukwila
8.7 City of Tukwila
51.3 City of Tukwila
63.3 City of Tukwila
0.2 City of Tukwila
9.9 City of Tukwila
12.7 City of Tukwila
17.9
8.9
47.7
Total Acres
24.8 City of Tukwila
City of Tukwila
1.3 Tukwila School District/Tukwila MPD
Tukwila School DistrictfTukwila MPD
1.3
182.4
Acres Ownership Total Acres
0.3 City of Tukwila
3 City of Tukwila
1.7 City of Tukwila
0.9 City of Tukwila
10.9 City of Tukwila
0.9 City of Tukwila
1.8 City of Tukwila
1 City of Tukwila
0.7 City of Tukwila
Total City of Tukwila AIM21.2
3 King County
0.2 King County
2.6 King County
Total King County
3.6 City of Tukwila, King County
City of Tukwila, King County
TOTAL SPECIAL USE PARKS
TOTAL ALL PARK LAND
30.6
260.7
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1 Changes to text found in original Comprehensive Plan have been edited to reflect the 2020 PROS plan
and the policies found there. Where information was out of date or inaccurate, it has been updated.
Proposed revisions are shown in "track changes" format. Formatting for the document will be finalized
at a later date, including formatting of the maps, tables, and figures within the entire document.
3 Called out trails to address in a specific paragraph.
4 For Trails: See Pages C7 & C8 of PROS Plan Supplement. Walk and Roll Plan is noted as default
resource.
Open Space was described earlier; and trails were moved to a separate paragraph.
6 The list of issues provided in the existing Comprehensive Plan Parks element was from the previous
PROS plan and has been deleted. The new text below is from the 2020 Parks Plan.
$ This section was updated to reflect current demographic data.
11 Added to address PSRC Policy En-15: Provide parks, trails, and open space within walking distance of
urban residents: Prioritize historically underserved communities for open space improvements and
investments.
12 The added text is as shown in the PROs Plan (Policy had been updated from the previous Comp Plan
Policy)
13 The added text is as shown in the PROs Plan (Policy had been updated from the previous Comp Plan
Policy)
14 The added text is as shown in the PROs Plan (Policy had been updated from the previous Comp Plan
Policy)
1s New Policy - added portion of PSRC Policy D-11: Identify and create opportunities to develop parks,
civic places (including schools) and public spaces, especially in or adjacent to centers.
17 Text rearranged to reflect policy in 2020 Plan.
18 Policies 6-2.6 and 6-2.7 are new to the PROS Plan and have been added here to the Comp Plan PROS
Element.
19 Policy from PROS plan added here.
21 New policy from Parks staff
22 Revised Plan to be consistent with 2020 plan
23 Combined 6.6.6 and 6.6.7 (as in PROS Plan)
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132
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Goals and Policies
Strategies
Time
Frame
Overall Community Design
GOAL 1
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A community of inviting neighborhoods and vibrant business
districts that are visually attractive, draw visitors, add value to the
community and encourage people to walk, bike and use transit
1.1 Encourage the creation of locations and facilities where residents of
all ages and cultures can gather for activities and events, such as
public markets, parades, and festivals, including those that are
representative of the City's diverse population.
1.1
1.2 Capitalize on the potential that public projects, arts, and cultural
facilities have for serving as symbols of the community, catalyzing
local development, and contributing to a unique sense of place within
a neighborhood
1.2.1 Foster public life throughout the City by
providing neighborhood focal points and
open spaces that are well -integrated into
the neighborhoods they serve.
1.2.2 Create and enhance public spaces for
community use
1.2.1 Work with the City Arts Commission and
Parks Board to identify and cultivate
neighborhood focal points and open spaces
that further support community life.
1.3 Expand the system of incentives, tools, and supports that encourage 1.3.1
investment in and maintenance of private and public spaces.
1.4 Encourage placemakingthrough creative use of signage, art,
landmark designation and improvement, and streetscape
improvements
1.4.1
Work with the City's Parks Department, Arts
Commission, and DCD to identify
appropriate options to achieve greater
investment and maintenance of these
resources
Work with City departments, and
Community stakeholders to adopt
coordinated wayfinding program for Tukwila
Ongoing
Mid term
Mid term
CC- 1.5 Require that sites have adequate lighting and are designed using 1.5.1
crime -reduction principles to increase safety
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GOAL 2
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1.6 Seek opportunities to integrate public art into public improvements 1.6.1
Design streets to create a cohesive network, including continuous
non -motorized improvements that connect to the surrounding
business and residential neighborhoods and enhance the visual
quality of the community.
2.1 Where appropriate and feasible, provide lighting, seating,
landscaping, and other amenities for sidewalks, walkways, and trails.
2.2 Provide street lighting where needed and appropriate based on
neighborhood context to improve visibility and safety while minimizing
light/glare spillover
2.3 Maintain, improve, and expand distinctive gateway features located at 2.3.1
freeway off -ramps and at City limit lines where they cross major
arterial streets; use graphics, orientation maps, informational
signage, lighting, specimen trees,
plantings with seasonal color, artwork, monument forms, or
combinations thereof
2.3 2.3.2
2.4 Promote the planting of street trees and other landscaping standards
to enhance corridor appearance, neighborhood identification and
streetscape unity.
2.5 Where possible, encourage developments to include pedestrian
weather protection, see -through glass, and distinctive rooflines in
new and redeveloped building facades.
Use Crime Prevention Through
Environmental Design principles to deter Ongoing
criminal behavior
Work with the City Arts Commission and
Parks Board to identify and cultivate
neighborhood focal points and open spaces Ongoing
that further support community life.
Work with City and Community
stakeholders to adopt wayfinding program
for Tukwila
Ongoing
Develop a consistent City graphics protocol Near
and program. term
Tukwila's
Past,
Present,
and
Future
GOAL 3
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GOAL 4
Paleontological and archaeological artifacts and sites with cultural
and Native American significance are protected and preserved
3.1 Ensure that the potential for the existence of paleontological and
archaeological sites is considered during development of new
construction projects
3.2 Identify and protect archaeological resources and culturally
significant sites and develop interpretive information that fosters
public appreciation of historical traditions and practices
A heritage conserved and interpreted so that Tukwila's citizens
recognize connections with the past and celebrate the diverse
cultures represented in the community today
3.2.1 Increase awareness of the community's
heritage by promoting cultural preservation
programs and/or educational activities.
Ongoing
CC- 4.1 Identify, protect, and designate historically significant properties, 4.1.1 Seek Certified Local Government status to
structures and sites. secure funding and technical assistance for Long
historic preservation. term
4.1.2 Promote partnerships between the City and
community cultural heritage groups, such
Ongoing
as the Tukwila Historical Society.
4.1.3 Guide community historic preservation
interests seeking to designate local sites of
Ongoing
historic value.
CC- 4.2 Provide prominent public art and interpretive markers that celebrate 4.2.1
the City's history of important buildings, sites, events or persons.
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Form City staff committee that meets semi-
annually and identifies opportunities and
mechanisms (funding options) to
implement policy
Near
term
4.2.2 Increase awareness of the community's
heritage by promoting cultural preservation Near
programs and/or educational activities. term
4.3 Establish a process for providing incentives for the preservation and 4.3.1
reuse of historic landmarks
4.4 Develop and implement plans, projects, and programs to protect and
promote the historical legacy of the Green River Valley and its natural
and built environment
4.5 The Tukwila Arts Commission shall ensure that Tukwila's
characteristics, such as its history and cultural diversity, are
considered in public art projects.
Develop incentives, such as fee waivers or
code flexibility, to encourage preservation
of historic resources, including those that Long
are currently known and those that have yet term
to be identified.
4.5.1 Develop public art and markers that
incorporate local historical references,
events, and individuals.
4.5.2 Promote partnerships between the City and
community cultural heritage groups, such
as the Tukwila Historical Society.
Long
term
Long
term
4.5.3 Recognize Tukwila's heritage by naming or
renaming parks, streets, or other public
places with their original names or after Ongoing
major figures and events.
GOAL 5
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The Tukwila community is proud of its cultural diversity, distinctive
identity, and unique character
5.1 City staff and leaders seek opportunities to generate positive media
coverage of the community and its attributes
5.2 Promote Tukwila's international diversity as a strength
5.3 Actively promote community engagement of all sectors of the City's
diverse population using a wide range of innovative methods
responsive to variety of communication requirements.
4.5.4 Develop materials and processes that
could help developers learn about design
characteristics of Tukwila's history and
cultural diversity and how those elements
could be reflected in commercial, public,
and multiple -family buildings.
5.2.1 Coordinate with the Tukwila community to
identify how the City can support
advertising of community events of interest
—whether through outreach by Economic
Development, Communications, Parks, or
onsite promotion
5.4 Encourage and support communities in celebrating, preserving, and 5.4.1
transmitting their traditions through cultural and heritage activities
and education
5.5 Develop programs and City-wide events to celebrate the City's
cultural diversity.
Mid term
Ongoing
Expand the linguistic and cultural
competencies of the City Council, staff,
commissions and other City representative Ongoing
groups through recruitment, training, and
hiring.
W
00 CC- 5.60 Enhance linkages with the school districts serving Tukwila to 5.6.1 Continue and enhance the relationship with
recognize and support the strengths of Tukwila's multi-lingual student the school districts serving Tukwila through
body classroom visits, partnerships, internships, Ongoing
and scholarship programs.
GOAL 6 A healthy community where active living and access to affordable,
culturally appropriate, and nutritious food is available to all.
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6.1 Encourage the development of public, private and non-profit
partnerships to support the goal of healthy eating and active living,
including education and awareness.
6.2 Develop and implement a communication plan and Healthy Tukwila
website with information and links about healthy eating, active living,
and related topics — including strategies for reaching communities
who do not speak English or use computers (e.g., translated written
as well as verbal).
CC- 6.3 Provide healthy and culturally appropriate food and beverages in City
programs and facilities to promote healthy eating habits.
GOAL 7 Food security, local food production and public health are
promoted
CC- 7.1 Explore incentives or regulatory changes to encourage location of 7.1.1 Research issues related to food trucks and
healthy food purveyors in underserved areas develop regulations as appropriate.
CC-
7.2 Support the Tukwila Food Pantry and other organizations that help
provide food assistance to low-income residents so that all families,
seniors, schools, and community— based organizations are able to
access, purchase and increase intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and
other nutritious foods
Long
term
Tukwila
Governme
nt -
Service to
the
Communi
ty
GOAL 8
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Provide a high -performing, service- and results -oriented
government that works with citizens, citizens groups, institutions,
and service providers to recognize and solve problems within the
community
8.1 Support the City's human services program in pro viding a solid
foundation for all Tukwila residents, through high -quality services and
actively collaborating with service providers to help meet basic needs
and job readiness, including:
• Safety net for urgent and basic needs,
• Positive and healthy relationships,
• Support for self-sufficiency, and
• Information referral (and individual -level support, if feasible)
Policy Change recommended in comment received at Public Hearing
(from Tukwila Human Services Department)
8.1 Support the City's human services program in providing a solid
foundation for all Tukwila residents through high -quality services and
actively collaborating with service providers to help meet basic needs
and job readiness, including:
• Safety net for urgent and basic needs,
• Positive and healthy relationships,
• Support for self-sufficiency, and
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• Information referral (and system navigation)
8.2 Enhance and encourage effective partnerships across City
departments and with providers to meet community needs.
8.3 Ensure that land use, urban design, transportation, economic
development, and other policies, plans and projects in Tukwila
consider human services impacts, and benefit existing and future
populations in an equitable manner
CC- 8.4 Promote health, safety, and quality of life through responsive and
responsible investment of public funds in social and human services
8.5 Enable culturally and linguistically appropriate equitable access to
programs and services and help connect residents to service options,
particularly for those most disproportionately cost -burdened or
historically excluded.
8.6 Adopt and use an equity impact review tool when developing plans
and policies to test for outcomes that might adversely impact Black,
Indigenous, and People of Color communities; immigrants and
refugees; people with low incomes; people with disabilities; and
communities with language access needs. Regularly assess the
impact of policies and programs to identify actual outcomes nd adapt
as needed to achieve intended goals.
8.7 Involve community groups especially immigrant, Black, Indigenous,
and People of Color communities continuously in planning processes
to promote civic engagement, government accountability,
transparency, and personal agency.
Communication and Engagement
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8.8 Use frequent and open communication and collaboration as an
operating principle in all affairs of the City.
8.9 Design and implement processes and programs to be user-friendly for
the public and efficient for City staff
8.6.1 Develop internal City procedures and
practices that publicly account for how City
plans, policies, and activites support equity
principles for Tukwila residents and visitors, Near
Term
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8.1 Strengthen the City's ability to engage with diverse populations within
the community, particularly those that do not participate in traditional
formats, by using a variety of participation techniques to reach all
segments of the population
8.11 Build meaningful and trusting connections between the City and the
diverse communities that make up the broader Tukwila community to
foster their participation and involvement in City affairs and decision -
making processes
8.12 Encourage the participation of dedicated, community -oriented
volunteers on City boards and commissions, striving to achieve a
broad and balanced representation of members from the entire
community
Safety,
Security,
and
Ernergenc
y
Prepared
ness
CC- 8.13 Foster an environment of safety and security for those who live in,
work in, and visit Tukwila, through a broad and collaborative approach
to reducing and preventing crime.
CC- 8.14 Equip residents, businesses, and community service providers
through education and training to be active participants in public
safety (including, but not limited to, emergency preparedness, crime
prevention, first aid, fire prevention, and climate -related hazards).
CC- 8.15 The City Police Department works with community members and
businesses to identify approaches to addressing crime in the City.
N CC- 8.16 Maintain and update as required a City-wide Comprehensive
Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) and program, that:
CC-
• Establishes a comprehensive all -hazards approach to incident
management;
• Ensures ongoing operation and continuity of City government;
• Uses the National Incident Management System (NIMS);
• Serves to inform and educate City employees and the community
about emergency preparedness measures for all hazards, including
flood and climate -related emergencies;
• Effectively utilizes available resources from all City departments and
mutual aid partners, in an adequate and timely response to
emergency situations; and
• Addresses emergency preparedness for those with access and
functional needs, coordinating a broad range of stakeholders to
improve planning and responsive service.
8.17 Continue to meet or exceed federal minimum standards for the
National Flood Insurance Program to better protect public health and
safety, and to achieve flood insurance premium discounts
CC- 8.18 Ensure the City of Tukwila's continued participation in the National
Flood Insurance Program through periodic review and updating of
flood plain management standards and the flood zone construction
permit process
CC- 8.19 Encourage long-term community environmental security by
supporting and implementing the U.S. Conference of Mayor's Climate
Protection Agreement, climate pledges and commitments undertaken
by the City, and other multi -jurisdictional efforts to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, address climate change and other
impacts of changing global conditions
CC-
8.2 Lead by example to establish policy decisions and priorities, and
design programs and facilities that consider long-term impacts on
natural and human environments to address sustainability and
climate change
Regional Responsibility
GOAL 9
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Foster a strong sense of Tukwila's regional responsibility and
accountability balanced by an awareness of regional impacts on
the City and its citizens
9.1 Accept Tukwila's responsibility to coordinate regionally on the siting
or expansion of Essential Public Facilities (see Land Use policies)
9.2 Site public capital facilities of a Countywide or Statewide nature to
support the Countywide land use pattern, support economic
activities, mitigate environmental impacts, provide amenities or
incentives, and minimize public costs. Amenities or incentives shall
be provided to neighborhoods/jurisdictions in which facilities are
sited
9.3 Work with affected citizens, property owners and the neighboring
cities of SeaTac, Kent, and Seattle to develop interlocal agreements
that may be necessary to address concerns regarding shared borders
GOAL 10 Benefit the community by participating in regional, State, and
national forums.
CC- 10.1 Enhance Tukwila's interests through participation in regional, State,
and national organizations and committees, and by developing
partnerships that can benefit the City, its residents, businesses, and
the natural environment
REGIONAL CENTERS
Goals and Policies
Strategies
Time
Frame
Southcenter Urban Cent
Goal1
RC-S
Land Use: Southcenter will contain an intense, diverse mix of uses,
which will evolve over time. The character and pace of this change
will be set by a combination of guidelines, regulations, incentives,
market conditions, and proactive private/public actions, which will
reinforce existing strengths and open new opportunities. The
desire for a high -quality environment for workers, visitors and
residents will also drive this character transition.
Land Use Policies
RC-S-
RC-S-
1.1 Southcenter Character. Raise awareness of Southcenter as a
regional commercial/industrial area, with opportunities for high -
quality, mixed -use transit -oriented development including housing,
served by a balance of auto, pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities
(Figures 10-2 and 10-3).
1.1.1 Work with Southcenter stakeholders to
develop a Public Amenities Plan.
1.1.2 Develop standards and incentives for
providing a variety of different types of open
spaces (e.g., plazas, parks, public and
private) that attract further residential
development and balances out the
increasingly dense environment
1.2 Private and Public Investment. Private and public investment will be 1.2.1 Coordinate with transit providers to
aimed at facilitating and encouraging overall growth and optimize transit service and station
redevelopment in Southcenter improvements.
Long
term
Long
term
Ongoing
RC-S-
RC-S-
1.2.2 Seek opportunities for public/private
partnerships.
1.3 Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) "Districts." Southcenter
encompasses a relatively large area containing a wide variety of uses.
To create a more coherent urban form and enhance the Center's long-
term competitive edge within the region, guide development and
change to create distinct areas, or districts, where the character,
forms, types of uses and activities benefit, complement, and support
each other.
1.4 Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) Residential Uses. To provide a 1.4.1
diverse set of housing alternatives and locations, a large percentage
of the City's future housing needs will be accommodated in the urban
center. Residential development is especially encouraged in
proximity to water amenities or within walking distance of the Sounder
commuter rail/Amtrak station or the bus transit center, subject to
design standards and incentives.
Goal 2 Urban Development: The northern portion of the Southcenter area
RC-S- will contain a central focus area. Throughout Southcenter, the
natural and built environments are attractive, functional,
environmentally sustainable, and distinctive, and support a range
of mixed uses promoting business, shopping, recreation,
entertainment, and residential opportunities.
Update development standards to align
with market forces.
Ongoing
Ongoing
Urban Development Policies
O) RC-S- 2.1 Natural Environment: Recognize, protect, and enhance the open 2.1.1 Seek opportunities for public/private
space network by: augmenting existing parks; enhancing access to partnerships.
passive and active recreation areas such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler
Pond, and the Green River; and by improving air and water quality and
preserving natural resources, thereby effectively integrating the
natural and built environments in Southcenter. In addition, recognize
that open space amenities are attractors for a wide range of uses,
including housing and office
Ongoing
2.1.2 Look for opportunities for pocket park
Ongoing
development
2.1.3 Promote the use of shade trees. Ongoing
2.1.4 During review of proposed public and
Ongoing
private projects:
§ Promote use of indigenous plants.
§ Promote use of water -saving plants.
2.1.5 Implement the Master Plan and water
Long
quality improvement program for Tukwila
term
Pond Park
2.1.6 Coordinate with Tukwila's Parks and
Recreation Department to ensure that the
Southcenter area's parks and open space Ongoing
concepts are integrated into the Parks Plan.
RC-S-
2.2 Streets, Streetscape, and Pedestrian Environment. Create a
"complete street" network that establishes a finer -grained street grid;
reflects the demand and need for motor vehicles, transit, pedestrians,
and bicyclists; and provides a safe, convenient, attractive, and
comfortable pedestrian and bicycling environment. Ensure that street
design eliminates potential conflicts, promotes safety for all modes of
travel, and maintains emergency services response capabilities.
Reinforce the different functions of streets by creating distinct
identities for major rights -of -way.
2.2.1 Coordinate with the City Public Works
Department to create a Street Network Plan
that establishes a finer -grained system of
public and private streets and pedestrian
corridors for the Southcenter area and
requires development to share in the cost
of providing them.
2.2.2 Identify and employ mechanisms and
incentives by which a finer grid system and
public frontage improvements can be
implemented by the Street Network Plan
Mid term
Long
term
2.2.3 Coordinate with the Public Works
Department to prepare an access
management plan for the Southcenter area
Mid term
that requires the consolidation of driveways
and access points, wherever possible
2.2.4 Update the Street Tree Plan for the
Southcenter area (CBD).
Mid term
03 2.2.5 Continue working with Sound Transit, the
City of Renton, and the Union Pacific and
Burlington Northern Railroads to fund and
complete the Strander Boulevard
connection between the Sounder
commuter rail/Amtrak Station and the
Tukwila Urban Center, including the
pedestrian only underpass beneath the
Union Pacific lines. Coordinate with land
use planning efforts to ensure that
improvements in the transportation and
circulation system are parallel with
projected growth in the Tukwila Urban
Center.
Long
term
2.2.6 Coordinate with land use planning efforts to
ensure that improvements in the
Long
transportation and circulation system are
term
parallel with projected growth in the Tukwila
Urban Center
2.2.7 Develop a Southcenter Streetscape
Improvement Plan with distinct identities
for major streets, and strategies for
pedestrian -oriented improvements and Long
linkages such as new pathways, arcades, term
awnings, sidewalk eating areas, and special
displays.
RC-S-
RC-S-
RC-S-
RC-S-
RC-S-
2.3 Site Development. Create regulations and design guidelines that
result in high -quality site design and enjoyable and safe pedestrian
environments, using site design techniques that include but are not
limited to:
■ integrating architectural, site design and landscape elements.
■ supporting motor vehicle, transit service, and pedestrian traffic by
ensuring that new development and infrastructure are designed and
constructed consistent with adopted standards and subarea plans.
■ using physical and natural elements that enhance an area's overall
aesthetic, including orienting a building to the street (Figure 10-6).
■ extending the street grid system.
2.4 Pedestrian Accessibility. Ensure that pedestrians have safe,
convenient, and comfortable paths from adjacent public ways to key
building entrances. This could include utilizing driveways or internal
streets with sidewalks for access to primary entrances, or by providing
clearly marked pathways through large parking lots from the public
sidewalks and from parked cars to key building entrances. There
should be minimum interruption to the pedestrian pathway by
driveways and other vehicular conflicts.
2.5 Siting and orientation of buildings and parking lots should create an 2.5.1
environment that is conducive to walking in the northern part of the
Southcenter area, particularly in the area between the Mall, the bus
transit center, Tukwila Pond, and the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak
station.
2.6 Require interior vehicular connection between adjacent parking areas
wherever possible.
2.7 Development standards will consider the needs of landowners,
developers, businesses, and the community.
Over the short to midterm, focus public and
private investments and regulations on
properties fronting Baker Boulevard
between the Mall and the Sounder station
Long
term
2.8 Parking. Ensure an adequate supply of parking for visitors,
employees, residents, and customers. Provide a variety of flexible
regulations, strategies, and programs to meet, and over the longer
term reduce, parking demands. Ongoing needs will also be assessed
to ensure appropriate parking requirements and to encourage
efficient and effective use of land in parking design.
2.8.1 Conduct a public parking structure
feasibility study, including siting, potential
funding sources and mechanisms.
2.8.2 Investigate alternative parking strategies
such as shared parking, etc.
Long
term
Long
term
2.8.3 Look for opportunities for on -street parking
in areas planned for higher pedestrian
Mid term
activity, particularly in the TOD District.
2.8.4 Revisit standards and guidelines for parking
design and layout to support the type of Long
development envisioned in each of term
Southcenter's districts.
2.8.5 Continue Commute Trip Reduction
Programs and other Transportation
Demand Management Programs.
Incorporate the Growth Transportation Ongoing
Efficiency Center (GTEC) into
transportation and land use planning in
Southcenter.
RC-S-
2.9 Building Design. Promote high quality architecture in Southcenter,
with attention to standards and guidelines that:
■ Promote an appropriate display of scale and proportion.
■ Give special attention to developing pedestrian -oriented features
and streetfront activity areas such as ground floor windows,
modulated building facades, and rich details in material and signage.
■ Provide quality landscape treatment that emphasizes shade trees.
■ Provide an appropriate relationship to adjacent sites and features.
■ Encourage overall building quality, and sensitivity to — and respect
for —the area's important natural amenities such as the Green River
and Tukwila Pond.
■ Include property owners in developing urban design guidelines to
ensure that the intent of this policy is met.
RC-S- 2.10 Signage. Develop a directional sign program to aid pedestrians,
bicyclists, and motorists in wayfinding through Southcenter
RC-S-
2.9.1 Review and update design guidelines for
Southcenter.
2.10.1 Identify appropriate design guidelines and
locations for directional signage for
shopping, access to amenities, and leisure
activities, in order to alleviate congestion in
key corridors and intersections
2.11 Work collaboratively with Southcenter property owners, businesses, 2.11.1
and community members to implement the vision for Southcenter,
assess the potential to catalyze development in the Southcenter area,
and form an economic redevelopment strategy.
Mid term
Long
term
Establish a lead redevelopment entity on
the public side to coordinate
implementation of an urban center Long
redevelopment strategy and provide it with term
people, resources, and tools to succeed.
2.11.2 Improve infrastructure through the Capital
Improvement Plan that reflects Southcenter Long
term
policies.
2.11.3 Create a public sector redevelopment tool
kit that offers developers assistance in
achieving the community's goals for the
Southcenter area.
Long
term
2.11.4 Prepare and implement a redevelopment Long
strategy. term
2.11.5 Identify projects necessary to catalyze
economic development, and give them high Long
priority for funding when considering public
term
investment in the Urban Center.
Ce
Goal1
RC-MIC-
RC-MIC-
Support for existing industrial activities in the Manufacturing/
Industrial Center and development of new industrial activity, in
order to maximize the employment and economic benefits to the
people of Tukwila and the region, while minimizing impacts on
residential neighborhoods.
1.1 Support the efforts of existing industries to expand and new industrial 1.1.1
businesses to develop in the Manufacturing/Industrial Center by
providing them with economic data, information on available
development sites, help in understanding and getting through the
permit processes, and other appropriate assistance.
Create and support an Economic
Development Advisory Board empowered to
provide economic data and other Long
appropriate assistance term
1.1.2 Provide City permit process assistance and
advice consistent with MIC policies Ongoing
RC-MIC- 1.2 Assist landowners in remediating site problems caused by
contaminated soil.
1.2.1 Provide technical assistance in bringing
contaminated property into productive use
in ways that minimize remediation costs Long
while protecting the water quality of the term
Duwamish River
1.2.2 Support development of a regional
approach to remediation issues that cross
jurisdictional boundaries
Long
term
Simplify Permit Processing
RC-MIC-
1.3 Develop appropriate permit processes that minimize lengthy public
review and simplify the development permit process, while providing
meaningful opportunities for citizen input and protecting the
environment.
1.3.1 Initiate a programmatic environmental
impact statement for MIC development,
based on relevant information from existing
EISs
1.3.2 Develop a method for preparing and
approving master plans for developing or
redeveloping sites in the MIC, geared to the
size and type of development
Mid term
Long
term
1.3.3 Coordinate simultaneous action by the City
on building permit application, State
Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review, Long
and other required approvals on proposed term
projects
1.3.4 Develop an outreach program (in all parts of
the City) that provides meaningful
opportunities for citizen input into the
permit review process
Mid term
RC-MIC-
1.4 Tailor Manufacturing/Industrial Center shoreline requirements to
achieve consistency between Shoreline and MIC element goals and
policies.
1.3.5 Continue to improve the permit review
process already in place in the City to
ensure successful outcomes
1.4.1 Review this at next Shoreline Master
Program update cycle
Ongoing
Near
term
Protect the Land Resource
RC-MIC-
RC-MIC-
1.5 Allow uses that are commonly associated with manufacturing and
industry, including those directly supporting such activity, such as
offices and laboratories, while limiting unrelated uses.
1.6 Develop and designate appropriate zoning, buffers, mitigation, and
access opportunities where manufacturing zoning directly abuts or
impacts residential zoning so that MIC uses may operate without
significant degradation of the residential environment.
Protect Adjacent Non -Industrial Land Uses from Negative Health Impacts
RC-MIC-
1.7 Minimize or mitigate potential health impacts of the activities in
manufacturing/industrial centers on residential communities,
schools, open space, and other public facilities.
Improve Duwamish River Access
RC-MIC-
RC-MIC-
1.8 Support the Duwamish River becoming a natural feature amenity in
the Manufacturing Industrial Center.
1.9 Improve public access and use of the west side of the river, protecting 1.9.1
owner's rights to reasonable use and enjoyment, improve employee
access to the east side of the river, and emphasize restoration on
both sides of the river.
Duwamish corridor river access guidelines
consistent with the Tukwila Parks and Open
Space Plan, other City access plans, and Mid term
city-wide river access guidelines
Improve Transportation Flow
RC-MIC- 1.10 Reduce reliance on the single- occupancy vehicle for transportation 1.10.1
of employees in and out of the MIC.
1.10.2
1.10.3
Work to have a multimodaltransportation
center
Provide continued support of agencies
developing other programs to reduce
dependence on the single -occupancy
vehicle
Work with regional transit agencies to
support new east -west transit routes
serving the MIC and other areas in Tukwila
1.10.4 Support alternative commercial routes in
and out of the MIC
1.10.5 Continue to work with regional agencies to
pursue light rail and commuter rail stops in
the vicinity of Boeing Access Road
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Continue Intergovernmental Coordination
RC-MIC- 1.11 Make appropriate adjustments to the boundaries between Tukwila, 1.11.1
King County and Seattle.
RC-MIC-
1.12 Work with other jurisdictions to bring about necessary changes in
laws and regulations and to develop other approaches to solving
common problems.
1.11.2
1.12.1
Coordinate with the City of Seattle to
initiate a trade of territory that would enable Long
16th Avenue South to become the City
term
boundary between East Marginal Way and
the river
Eliminate undesirable boundary line
irregularities, such as the splitting of Long
Associated Grocers and King County term
International Airport property
Seek opportunities to work with appropriate
governments to: Ongoing
01
rn § Investigate tax increment financing
options;
§ Increase electrical energy capacity;
§ Improve soil remediation regulations;
§ Identify the most equitable and cost-
effective approach to surface water
drainage in the Duwamish Basin
§ Continue improvement in water quality
and wildlife habitat; and
§ Increase predictability of permit
conditions and reduce permit processing
time
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Goals and Policies
GOAL 1 A Vibrant, Diverse, and Resilient Economy
ED- 1.1 Continue to strengthen and balance economic and workforce development 1.1.1
with strategic housing growth in Tukwila to ensure an adaptable and diverse
economic base that leverages Tukwila's many assets and ensures the City's
financial stability.
ED-
ED-
1.1
Strategies
Actively assist businesses that confer strong
net financial benefit to Tukwila's municipal
revenue streams.
Time
Frame
Ongoing
1.1.2 Continue and grow the Experience Tukwila
program to proactively market shopping,
dining, and entertainment options available in
Tukwila through targeted social media posts Ongoing
and individual business highlights in
appropriate forums.
1.2 Attract and retain office, research, and development, advanced technology 1.2.1
and manufacturing, aerospace, food manufacturing, and life sciences
businesses, including those that provide services for export.
1.2
1.3 Encourage commercial and mixed -use development that provides a range
of job opportunities throughout the city and county to create a closer
balance between the locations of jobs and housing.
In the course of outreach to local businesses,
assess the degree to which adopting zoning
(and related standards) support business
operations and streamline requirements that
provide little benefit.
Ongoing
1.2.2 Promote Tukwila to the priority business
subsectors by building relationships with key
firms and understanding their land, facility, Ongoing
infrastructure, and workforce needs.
ED- 1.4 Maintain support for and strengthen Tukwila's robust retail, hospitality, and
experiential sectors.
ED-
ED-
ED-
1.4
1.4
1.5 Evaluate the performance of economic development policies and strategies
in developing businesses and creating middle -wage jobs.
1.6 Make local investments to maintain and expand infrastructure and services
that support local and regional economic development strategies. Focus
investment where it encourages growth in designated centers and helps
achieve employment targets
1.7 Promote the local workforce through priority hire programs that create
middle -wage employment opportunities, encouraging workforce
development partnerships, and identifying pipeline education or training
opportunities
1.4.1 Continue supporting Explore Seattle
Southside to market activities and amenities
that actively promote Tukwila to business
travelers and tourists and leverage Tukwila's Ongoing
location to SeaTac airport to attract overnight
stays and layover breaks.
1.4.2 Support events, activities, pop -ups, and
temporary markets that activate public
spaces and underutilized parking lots and Ongoing
contribute buzz and energy to surrounding
commercial districts.
1.4.3 Promote the Tukwila International Boulevard
neighborhood as an authentic, international
district welcoming to visitors.
Mid term
1.6.1 Create a robust and sustainable business
contacts database for the City and utilize to
track, schedule, and monitor engagement and Near Term
"touches" with Tukwila businesses and
entrepreneurs.
Regional Economy
ED-
1.8 Coordinate local and countywide economic policies and strategies with
VISION 2050 and the Regional Economic Strategy. Emphasize support for
those industry clusters that are integral to that strategy
ED- 1.9 Prioritize growth of a diversity of middle -wage jobs and prevent the loss of
such jobs from the region
Regional Centers
ED-
ED-
ED-
1.10 Concentrate economic and employment growth in designated regional,
countywide, and local centers through local investments, planning, and
financial policies.
1.11 Support economic growth that, along with land use planning and
infrastructure development, facilitates Tukwila meeting its designated
regional growth targets.
1.12 Work to reduce the risk of industrial displacement through a variety of anti -
displacement strategies
1.10.1 Protect and monitor development in the
Southcenter District and MIC and adjust
zoning and infrastructure as needed to
accommodate and attract development and
employment.
1.11.1 Work with the landowner to review and adjust,
as necessary, the Tukwila South development
agreement to ensure the vision for this
important future employment center is
realized.
1.11.2 Consider incentives and other tools such as
the multi -family property tax exemption
(MFTE), tax increment financing (TIF) to
incentivize private investment and new
development that is compatible with the
city's vision.
1.12.1 Protect industrially zoned areas by
maintaining industrial zoning and
infrastructure. Consider allowing the uses
within a structure to change and not trigger
building code upgrades if the uses are
industrial.
Ongoing
Near Term
Near Term
Ongoing
Partnerships
ED-
1.13 Collaborate with the private sector to leverage catalytic development sites.
1.13
1.13.1 Inventory all major developable or
redevelopable sites in Tukwila, gathering
information on ownership, zoning, and known
development constraints.
1.13.2 Prepare criteria for the development of
publicly owned sites that may be available for Near term
future disposition.
Near term
O
O ED- 1.14 Build and maintain relationships with property owners and businesses.
1.14
1.14.1 Conduct a business outreach program that
can act as an effective feedback loop for city
policies, programs, and regulations and can
address needs, challenges, and opportunities
for individual businesses and sectors alike.
Near term
1.14.2 Facilitate and participate in networking
opportunities between the City and local and Ongoing
regional businesses.
Site Selection and Development
ED-
ED-
1.15 Facilitate redevelopment of contaminated sites through local, county, and
state financing and other strategies that assist with planning, site design,
and funding for environmental remediation
1.16 Continue working to achieve the vision in the Tukwila International
Boulevard District and Southcenter District, emphasizingwalkability,
placemaking, and community gathering opportunities
1.16
1.16.1 Seek opportunities to improve the experience
in the Southcenter District, such as improving
the public experience of Tukwila Pond Park;
improving Baker Boulevard as a festival street;
creating better pedestrian experiences; and
connecting Westfield Southcenter to the
commuter train station.
Near
1.16.2 Seek opportunities to improve the Tukwila
International Boulevard neighborhood by
creating a walkable, pedestrian friendly
experience along the Boulevard, incentivizing
development on the Boulevard, leveraging the Near
sale of City property for catalyst development,
and fostering the international experience for
visitors.
1.16
GOAL 2 A Safe, Desirable, and Healthy Community with a Positive Identity
ED- 2.1 Enhance Tukwila's public safety perceptions and sense of place and
support a positive identity as a city in which to "Live, Work, Stay and Play" —
a community of choice for businesses, residents and visitors with
outstanding transportation, quality housing, fun experiences, amenities,
and supportive services.
ED- 2.2 Improve perceptions of public safety through crime reduction, visible
enforcement, improved communications, and messaging.
2.2
2.2
2.2
0)
1.16.3 Continue to partner with the King County
Flood Control District, US Army Corps of
Engineers, and private property owners to
monitor, maintain, and improve Tukwila's
levee systems and banks on the Green and
Duwamish Rivers to ensure sustainable flood
protection, environmental restoration, and
improved habitat.
2.2.1 Communicate positive crime statistics across
multiple channels, including formally and
informally via City contacts with partners and
communities.
2.2.2 Support Tukwila Police Department in their
recruiting and crime reduction public
engagement efforts such as National Night
Out.
2.2.3 Continue to expand engagement between
Police and the community to build stronger Ongoing
relationships and trust.
2.2.4 Advocate strongly for fiscal sustainability
policies that add budget capacity for public
safety including hiring, programming, Ongoing
reporting, and equity training.
Ongoing
Near term
Ongoing
2.2
2.2
2.2.5 Invite key property owners and businesses to
collaborate on public safety measures such
as private security, information sharing, and Near term
property management practices.
2.2.6 Consider creating a business improvement
area in the Southcenter District to assist with
additional public safety initiatives.
ED- 2.3 Invest in placemaking efforts that stimulate and instill community pride, 2.3.1 Continue community art program and seek to
improve quality of life, and welcome visitors. scale up public and private art installations,
such murals and utility box wraps.
ED-
Mid term
Ongoing
2.3 2.3.2 Seek opportunities to leverage enjoyment of
the Green River Trail and the river itself for Ongoing
economic development.
2.3 2.3.3 Seek opportunities to improve Tukwila Pond
Near term
for public enjoyment.
2.3 2.3.4 Support and attract businesses that provide
fun and positive experiences and build on Ongoing
synergy with existing businesses.
2.3 2.3.5 Consider and explore the feasibility of adding
new and additional streetlights throughout Mid term
the city.
2.4 Promote positive aspects of the Tukwila community to the region. 2.4.1 Continue and expand the Experience Tukwila
social media and sponsorships program. Ongoing
2.4 2.4.2 Continue and expand Tukwila's family friendly
activities hosted by the City, partners, and Ongoing
outside organizations.
2.4 2.4.3 Celebrate the diversity of Tukwila's business
community to draw new market share
regionally to experience the unique offerings Ongoing
in street food, and niche and experiential
retail and events.
ED-
ED-
2.4
2.5 Add to the vibrancy and sustainability of our communities and community
health and well-being by ensuring the provision of safe and convenient
access to local services, neighborhood -oriented retail, purveyors of healthy
food (e.g., grocery stores and farmers markets), and sufficient
transportation choices
2.6 Promote Tukwila's natural environment as a key economic asset and work
to improve access to it as an economic driver. Work cooperatively with local
businesses to protect and restore the natural environment in a manner that
is equitable, efficient, predictable, and complements economic prosperity
GOAL 3 Prosperity and Opportunity for Businesses, Workers, and Residents
ED- 3.1 Expand avenues of durable economic success for workers, entrepreneurs,
business owners, and residents in Tukwila, including workforce
development, with a focus on shared prosperity, opportunity, and social
responsibility for local communities.
ED-
ED-
3.2 Promote the local workforce through priority hire programs that create
middle -wage employment opportunities in historically disadvantaged
communities
3.3 Direct investments to community and economic development initiatives
that elevate equitable economic opportunity for those communities most
marginalized and impacted by disinvestment and economic disruptions
2.4.4 Continue and strengthen relationships with
Tukwila -based organizations with positive
public relations reputations such as the OL
Reign, Seawolves, and Starfire.
Ongoing
Workforce Development and Partnerships
ED- 3.4 Improve awareness of, and access to, education and workforce 3.4.1 Dedicate staff time to participate in workforce
development resources. development and network with workforce Near Term
partners.
3.4
3.4
3.4
3.5 Facilitate connections between employers and education and workforce
development institutions, seeking to increase graduation rates and develop
a highly educated and skilled local workforce. Align and prioritize workforce
development efforts with Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color
communities; immigrant and refugees; and other marginalized
communities
3.5
3.5
3.6 Act as a resource to residents and workers connecting them to workforce
development organizations.
3.4.2 Vocally advocate for and promote Tukwila's
specific needs to workforce development Near Term
organizations.
3.4.3 Create and maintain an online directory of
organizations and services in Tukwila
providing workforce development, language
training, internship and apprenticeship
opportunities, and employment assistance.
3.4.4 Promote workforce development
opportunities, including training, workshops,
education, and resources, directly to Tukwila
residents.
3.5.1 Explore organizing an event series to connect
high school counselors and teachers to local
industry representatives in high -growth and /
or target sectors, such as biotech, media arts,
and others.
3.5.2 Identify opportunities to leverage the success
of the Tukwila School District's Career &
Technical Education (CTE) programs by
connecting their efforts to expand student
recruitment and program offerings to local
business needs. Serve as a conduit between
local employers and CTE programs.
Near Term
Near Term
Near Term
Near Term
3.5.3 Connect with local employers' human
resources staff to understand their needs and
Near Term
connect them with workforce development
organizations.
ED-
GOAL 4
3.7 Encourage private, public, and non-profit sectors to incorporate
environmental stewardship and social responsibility into their practices.
Encourage development of established and emerging industries,
technologies and services that promote environmental sustainability,
especially those addressing climate change and resilience
A Supportive Environment for Business and Entrepreneurs
4.1 Maintain a strong, supportive environment for local, independent, small,
and micro -businesses and the entrepreneurial ecosystem to ensure they
continue to flourish in Tukwila while attracting new business activities to
the City.
4.2 Where possible, ease regulations that challenge small businesses.
4.2
4.3 Ensure that business and entrepreneurial resources are available to those
with least access, including people of color, immigrants, and refugees
4.3
4.3
4.3
4.2.1 Augmenting signage regulations to allow
greater flexibility of expression, branding, and Mid Term
identity in business signage.
4.2.2 Encourage the founding and development of
home -based, virtual, mobile, and / or pop-up
businesses that don't require brick -and- Mid Term
mortar locations with incentives and / or other
City support.
4.3.1 Continue and expand support for technical
assistance consulting services to guide small
businesses on matters ranging from taxes, Ongoing
business loans, permitting, lease negotiation,
and hiring.
4.3.2 Seek out and promote resources around no -
interest funding models for small businesses. Near Term
4.3.3 Translate key small business materials into
languages present in the Tukwila community
and stress -test translations with community
partners.
4.3.4 Support small businesses to create social
media and other online digital presence.
Near Term
Ongoing
4.3
4.4 Ensure that Tukwila projects an 'open for business' culture, and help
businesses thrive through:
* Transparency, efficiency, and predictability of local regulations and
policies;
* Communication and partnerships between business, government,
schools, civic and community organizations, and research institutions; and
* Government contracts with local businesses
4.4
4.5 Foster a broad range of public -private partnerships to implement economic
development policies, programs, and projects, including partnerships with
community groups. Ensure such partnerships share decision -making power
with and spread benefits to community groups
4.6 Use partnerships to foster connections between employers, local
vocational and educational programs, and community needs
4.3.5 Consider creating an incubator space for
small businesses that are supported by Mid Term
private sector venture capital.
4.4.1 Develop a communication strategy to
emphasize the city's accessibility to its
business community.
Near Term
4.4.2 Identify and track metrics related to
permitting and entitlements timelines and Near Term
work toward continuous improvement.
4.4.3 Provide guidance for how City departments
embrace a business -friendly culture while
also maintaining a resident friendly culture.
See:
3.4.2,
3.4.3,
3.4.4,
and
3.4.3
Near Term
Goal5
4.7 Identify, support, and leverage key regional and local assets to the
economy, including assets that are unique to our region's position as an
international gateway, such as major airports, seaports, educational
facilities, research institutions, health care facilities, long -haul trucking
facilities, and manufacturing facilities.
4.8 Support the regional food economy including the production, processing,
wholesaling, and distribution of the region's agricultural food and food
products to all King County communities. Emphasize improving access for
communities with limited healthy, affordable, and culturally relevant food
options
4.9 Develop and implement systems that provide a financial safety net during
economic downturns and recovery. Direct resources in ways that reduce
inequities and build economic resiliency for those communities most
negatively impacted by asset poverty
A Community that Values Diversity and Access to Opportunity
5.1 Foster a business community in Tukwila that welcomes and empowers
residential and business diversity in all its forms while capturing increased
market share and building resilience to economic shocks.
5.2 Seek to understand the dynamics, needs, and relationships within
communities, and where possible, provide crucial technical support and
regulatory relief where feasible for small businesses owned by those with
least access, including people of color, immigrants, and refugees
5.2.1 Educate and connect minority and immigrant -
owned businesses on the availability of grant and
low- to no -interest loan programs at local, state,
and federal levels.
Ongoing
5.3 Highlight the dynamic diversity of local communities as a means to
enhance social capital, neighborhood cohesion, the county's global
relationships, and support for cultural and arts institutions.
5.4 Promote business diversity by signaling public sector support and ensure
public investment decisions protect culturally significant economic assets
and advance the business interests of Black, Indigenous, and other People
of Color communities; immigrant and refugees; and other marginalized
communities
5.2.1 Evaluate Tukwila's business license fee,
business and occupations tax, development
impact fees and consider other revenue
sources such as a transportation benefit Near Term
district to determine if the taxes and fees can
be simplified and improved.
5.2.3 Engage with the Equity and Social Justice
Commission, social organizations, and faith
organizations to build relationships and
understand economic gaps and resource Mid term
constraints among the minority and
immigrant owned business community in
Tukwila.
5.3.1 Survey minority and immigrant -owned small
businesses to identify which culturally
relevant business services the City should Ongoing
provide to small business owners in Tukwila.
5.3.2 Identify resources and support to continue to
cultivate ethnic shopping districts, including
cuisine, and pursue recognition as a world- Near Term
class street food destination.
5.4.1 Celebrate Tukwila's diversity by promoting
small and diverse businesses.
5.4.2 Highlight & promote a rotating roster of
individual minority and immigrant -owned
small businesses in Tukwila's existing social
media communications.
Ongoing
Ongoing
5.5 Eliminate and correct for historical and ongoing disparities in income,
employment, and wealth by building opportunities for Black, Indigenous,
and other People of Color; women; and other intersecting marginalized
identities
5.6 Promote an economic climate that is supportive of business formation,
expansion, and retention, and that emphasizes the importance of small
businesses, locally owned businesses, women -owned businesses, and
businesses with Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color; immigrant
and refugee; LGBTQIA+; disabled; and women -owned or -led businesses, in
creating jobs
5.7 Stabilize and prevent the economic displacement of small, culturally
relevant businesses and business clusters during periods of growth,
contraction, and redevelopment. Mitigate displacement risks through
monitoring and adaptive responses
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Goals and Policies
Strategies Time Frame
Environmental Quality and Stewardship
GOAL 1
EN- 1.1
EN-
EN-
EN -
The City's air, land, and water resources are restored and
protected for future generations and are resilient to a
changing climate
Anticipate the effects of climate change by incorporating Best
Available Science, considering long-term climate change
projections, and planning for adaptative management of City
regulations and internal procedures, as needed.
1.2
Develop and implement environmental strategies that use
integrated and interdisciplinary approaches to environmental
assessment and planning, in coordination with local
jurisdictions, tribes, and other stakeholders
1.3
Collaborate with federal, state, and triball0 fish and wildlife
agencies to identify priority habitats and species, to establish
appropriate protections to ensure no net loss of ecological
functions and values.
1.4
Provide guidance to assist applicants in understanding and
complying with federal and State fish and wildlife regulations
for all public and private sector projects.
EN-
EN -
GOAL 2
1.5
Develop and implement programs that encourage and
incentivize Tukwila residents and businesses to take active
measures to protect, enhance, and plan for changing
conditions of Tukwila's natural environment to increase
climate resiliency. Such measures could include, but are not
limited to, the use of Low Impact Development (LID)
techniques, natural streambank restoration, non -toxic lawn
care, and composting and recycling.
1.6
Identify and preserve regionally significant open space
networks through implementation of the Regional Open Space
Conservation Plan. Develop strategies and funding to protect
lands that provide the following valuable functions:
a. Ecosystem linkages and migratory corridors crossing
jurisdictional boundaries;
b. Physical or visual separation providing buffers between
incompatible uses;
c. Active and passive outdoor recreation opportunities;
d. Wildlife habitat and migration corridors that preserve and
enhance ecosystem resiliency in the face of urbanization and
climate change;
e. Preservation of ecologically sensitive, scenic, or cultural
resources; and
f. Urban green space, habitats, and ecosystems
An educated public that understands the importance of
protecting and enhancing the functions and values of
environmentally critical areas, including fish and wildlife
habitat conservation areas, wetlands, floodplains,
watercourses, and the Green/Duwamish River, and actively
assists in their stewardship.
2.1
Develop and expand free or low-cost educational programs
and materials for the community about the benefits of
protecting and enhancing the City's environmentally critical
areas, the urban forest and wildlife habitat, and individual
responsibilities for their stewardship in a changing climate.
The City should continue to develop and support community -
oriented wildlife educational programs, such as the Tukwila
Backyard Wildlife Program, and communicate the
requirements of City environmental regulations so as to
maximize compliance and minimize code enforcement
actions and environmental degradation.
2.2
Provide individualized education and technical support to
residential property owners and general guidance to
businesses regarding environmental stewardship and climate
change resiliency strategies.
2.3
Collaborate with environmental organizations and businesses
to support recruiting and training of environmental stewards,
identify and sponsor restoration projects, incorporate climate
change -focused strategies and provide logistical support for
their work. Action should be taken to encourage expanding the
citizen volunteer base in Tukwila for restoration and
enhancement of the City's natural areas to promote the
continued health of these systems
1&2.a11.1
1&2.a11.2
1&2.a11.3
1&2.a11.4
Support and maintain the City's Green
Tukwila 20-year Stewardship Plan, which
addresses the restoration and protection of
City -owned parks and green spaces to
protect urban tree canopy and native
landscapes.
Update and expand the City's website to
post information on environmental
stewardship, green building techniques and
standards, recycling and re -use of
construction waste, low -impact
development (LID) techniques, and other
related topics. Distribute information to
applicants and contractors during permit
reviews.
Ongoing
Ongoing
Incorporate green construction and low -
impact development techniques into City
construction or retrofit projects as a tool for Near Term
educating Tukwila residents, businesses
and developers about their benefits.
Partner with environmental organizations —
such as Forterra, Earth Corps, National
Wildlife Federation and the Washington
Native Plant Society —to train
environmental stewards, help recruit and
manage volunteers, and carry out
environmental restoration projects.
Ongoing
1&2.a11.5
Seek grants and donations to fund
publications, volunteer environmental
restoration projects, and citizen
environmental stewardship training.
A Goal 3 was missing from the PC -considered draft; "Goal 4" has been renamed as Goal 3 to correct the error.
Ongoing
Water Resources
Water resources that function as a healthy, integrated
system; provide a long-term public benefit from enhanced
environmental quality; are resilient from a range of climate -
related events including increased flood events, changes in
water temperature, and drought; and have the potential to
reduce public infrastructure costs.
Wetlands/ Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
EN- 4.1
Vital and self-sustaining fish and wildlife habitat areas and
habitat corridors are protected and restored and that
provide, where appropriate, opportunities for recreational
and educational uses
Restore, protect, and enhance watershed functions and
values through environmentally critical area restoration
projects on public and private land to build resilience to
climate change through ecological solutions. Restoration
projects should improve habitat corridors and connections,
particularly in riparian management zones and floodplain
wetlands, wherever feasible
EN-
4.2
EN- 4.3
EN-
EN-
4.4
4.5
Develop best management practices (BMPs) for stormwater
management and related maintenance activities to avoid
impacts to riparian management zones or other
environmentally critical areas. Where riparian vegetation is
disturbed through development or maintenance activities,
restoration should be required to preserve the functions and
values of the habitat
Identify staff, financial support, or funding opportunities for
restoration projects, wherever feasible, to enhance
anadromous fish habitat in riparian management zones,
wetlands and the Green/Duwamish River, including projects
identified in the Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Habitat
Restoration Program, the Water Resource Inventory Area
(WRIA) 9 Salmon Habitat Plan, WRIA 9 Duwamish-Green
Watershed Restoration and Enhancement Plan, or other
regional watershed restoration plans
Ensure that new development, open space protection efforts,
and mitigation projects support the State's streamflow
restoration law. Promote robust, healthy, and sustainable
salmon populations and other ecosystem functions, working
closely within WRIA 9 and utilizing adopted watershed plans
Prohibit piping of watercourses, except where unavoidable for
access purposes. Wherever feasible and practical, encourage
removal of piped sections of watercourses when permitting
any new or redevelopment activities to improve riparian
habitat functions and values.
Q) EN -
GOAL 5
4.6
EN- 5.1
EN -
Prohibit creation of new fish barriers and, where possible,
encourage elimination of existing barriers to fish passage
through implementation of capital improvement projects,
coordination with regional partners and the WRIA 9 Lead Entity
to seek funding opportunities, and by providing incentives to
private sector development
Riparian management zones, floodplains, wetlands, and
their buffers are protected from encroachment and
degradation and improved through impact avoidance,
mitigation, enhancement, and restoration projects to
increase resiliency to impacts from climate change
Regulate land use and development, using Best Available
Science, to protect and improve natural vegetation and
hydrology, habitat corridors, and open spaces, to prevent
significant erosion, sedimentation, or degradation of areas of
potential geologic instability, wetlands, floodplains, fish and
wildlife habitat areas and their associated buffers
5.2 Ensure mitigation sequencing is applied to avoid or minimize
impacts to environmentally critical areas, consistent with
federal and State guidelines.
EN- 5.3
EN -
Require and enforce mitigation in order to ensure no net loss
of environmentally critical area functions, as well as mitigation
designed to replace environmentally critical area acreage lost
due to development.
5.4 Ensure the effectiveness of environmentally critical area
mitigation by improving City oversight, tracking, and
monitoring of mitigation sites
EN-
EN-
EN-
5.5
5.6
5.7
Allow off -site wetland mitigation only when a site -specific
study, prepared by a qualified professional, documents that
there are no feasible opportunities for on -site mitigation, is
greater functional benefit, no significant adverse impact to the
drainage sub -basin, and no significant adverse impact to
existing wetlands or riparian management zones.
Consider creating a City in -lieu fee program for future wetland
mitigation, or collaborate with King County to establish in -lieu
fee sites in Tukwila for wetland restoration projects, including
projects along the Green/Duwamish River shoreline, when a
site specific study, prepared by a qualified professional,
documents that there are no feasible opportunities for on -site
mitigation
In collaboration with other agencies, develop a program to
provide guidance to property owners interested in restoring or
enhancing -environmentally critical areas, shorelines or
associated buffers on their private property that public or
private sector projects can utilize to compensate for impacts
on project sites that lack opportunities for on -site mitigation
5.all.1
Define and map springs, channel migration
zones (CMZs), and riparian management
zones (RMZs) on the environmentally
critical areas map using available
information, and update the maps as new
information is submitted in required critical
area studies.
Mid-term
5.all.2
Periodically offer workshops or classes for
property owners to provide guidance for
environmentally critical areas stewardship,
regulations, stream bank enhancement,
and other related topics.
5.all.3 Improve tracking and monitoring of
environmentally critical areas regulations
and develop other mechanisms to improve
compliance with maintenance
requirements.
5.a11.4
Mid-term
Mid-term
Continue implementation of the Surface
Water Management Plan, the Shoreline
Master Program (SMP) Habitat Restoration
Program, the Water Resource Inventory
Area (WRIA) 9 Salmon Habitat Plan, WRIA 9
— Duwamish-Green Watershed Restoration Ongoing
and Enhancement Plan, and other regional
watershed restoration/basin plans to
remove identified fish barriers during
surface water and street maintenance and
upgrade projects, where possible.
5.a1L5
Develop guidelines and provide training to
surface water, parks and street
maintenance staff in best management
practices (BMPs) for work in or near
environmentally critical areas. This could
include consideration of outdoor light
standards as supported by DarkSky
International (https://darksky.org/)
Mid-term
Water Quality and Quantity
GOAL 6
EN-
EN-
EN -
Protect, enhance and plan for changing conditions of
Tukwila's water resources for the benefits of recreation, fish
and wildlife resources and habitat, flood protection, and
open space to create a more climate resilient city for
current and future generations
6.1 Retrofit existing City surface water systems and improve
surface water management through use of low -impact
development (LID) techniques for all new development and
redevelopment to improve the water quality of discharges
6.2 Prevent and reduce pollution and sedimentation of water
resources through implementation of surface water,
stormwater, and land clearing regulations and inspections
6.3 Adopt policies, regulations, and processes, related to new or
existing fossil fuel facilities, which are designed to protect and
preserve natural ecosystems from the construction and
operational impacts of fossil fuel facilities, and prepare for and
mitigate any impacts of fossil fuel disasters on the community
03
O EN- 6.4 Prohibit the application of pesticides (insecticides, herbicides,
fungicides, algaecides, rodenticides, etc.) to surface water
systems or their buffers, unless warranted to protect
ecological functions of the system, and inform applicators
about State pesticide licensing regulations
EN-
EN-
6.5 Develop public outreach materials and implement
management programs to reduce the use of chemicals
including fertilizers and pesticides, having negative impacts on
surface water systems or their buffers, unless warranted to
protect ecological values and functions
6.6 Prevent, mitigate, and remediate harmful environmental
pollutants and hazards, including light, air, noise, soil, and
structural hazards, where they have contributed to racialized
health or environmental disparities, and increase
environmental resiliency in frontline communities
EN- 6-all.1 Continue implementation of the
Environmentally Critical Areas Regulations,
and improve tracking and monitoring and
develop other mechanisms to improve
compliance with maintenance
requirements.
EN -
See 5.all.4.
& 5.a11.5
Ongoing
EN- See 5.all.2 Ongoing
EN- 6-all.4 Publish articles on environmentally critical
areas stewardship in the Hazelnut or on Ongoing
social media.
EN-
6-all.5 Offer assistance to property owners
interested in providing mitigation sites, Ongoing
where appropriate.
EN- 6-all.6
Evaluate establishing an in -lieu fee wetland
mitigation program in the City, and present Ongoing
recommendations to decision -makers.
EN- 6-all.8 Continue to coordinate with the
Department of Fish and Wildlife and the
Tribes regarding projects that impact fish
and the design of watercourse restoration
projects.
EN -
GOAL 7
EN -
Surface water generated by urban development does not
exceed pre -development discharge rates.
7.1 Require that all proposed development applications identify
hydrologic features, both on- and off -site, that could be
impacted by the project. Evaluate and prevent project impacts
on on -site and off -site floodplains, wetlands, drainage
features and springs to avoid adverse impacts to existing
environmentally critical area hydrology to meet today's
climate needs and prepare for future climate needs
See 5-all.1
EN- 7.1.1
Implement water quality testing, as
required under the City's new National
Pollutant Discharge System permit and
develop action plans for identifying and
eliminating sources of pollution when
problems are identified.
Ongoing
Ongoing
Near term
03
IV EN- 7.1.2
EN- 7.1.3
EN- 7.1.4
EN -
Set up internal procedures for evaluating
development projects to ensure no adverse
impacts to wetland or stream hydrology and
no net loss of ecological function.
Near term
Provide training resources and written
educational information on low -impact
development (LID) techniques, their
benefits, and methods for implementation Near term
to developers, contractors, and other
interested parties. City staff and City
officials.
Hcuvety seeK out grants ana other runaing
opportunities to implement new or upgrade
existing surface water systems, protect
Near term /
existing water sources from sources of
Ongoing
pollution and create action plans for the
City's water resources that have the
nn+nn+inI +n kn im r+n rl her rlimn+n rI, nnrrn
7.1.5 Work with local climate professionals to
gather information and develop reports on Near term /
how the City of Tukwila will be directly Ongoing
impacted by climate change.
Flood Control
GOAL 8
Protect and enhance the natural flood attenuation functions
of wetlands, floodplains and floodways and plan for
increased seasonal flooding associated with climate
change to reduce and prevent damage to life, property, and
public safety (see also Capital Facilities)
EN- 8.1 Restrict or prohibit development that could create a danger to
health, safety, and property due to potential flood hazards
EN- 8.2 Coordinate and fund holistic flood hazard management efforts
through the King County Flood Control District
EN-
EN-
EN-
8.3 Work cooperatively to meet regulatory standards for floodplain 8.3.1
development as these standards are updated for consistency
with relevant federal requirements including those related to
the Endangered Species Act.
8.4 Wetlands provide services that have the potential to reduce
impacts of climate change. As such the City of Tukwila will
promote wetland restoration and enhancement throughout the
City and ensure that development avoids and minimizes
impacts to wetlands and their buffers and provides
compensatory mitigation to retain equal or greater wetland
functions and values within the same drainage basin or
watershed, and results in no net loss of wetland area except in
limited circumstances
8.5 Plan for changes in seasonal flood events associated with
climate change and -reduce flooding that adversely affects
public health, safety, and general welfare, and protect against
flood damage through surface water and flood management
projects
Review the Washington State Department
of Transportation and National Marine
Fisheries program for Regional Road
Maintenance Program (RRMP) to adopt
applicable best management practices and
ensure that Tukwila Public Works is enaging Ongoing
in practices that improve roadway safety,
maintain the City's roads, and follow the
Endangered Species Act.
03
- EN- 8.6 Minimize adverse impacts to water resources by conserving
native shoreline vegetation or using bioengineering and natural
solutions to enhance stream banks and shoreline stability and
reduce hazards associated with slope failures and erosion.
Invasive plant removal and replacement of native trees and
shrubs should be prioritized over retention of low functioning
vegetation
EN-
8.7 Require mitigation to achieve the goal of no net loss of
ecological functions and maintenance of good water quality by
requiring setbacks, buffers, and stormwater treatment and
detention facilities to adhere to BAS recommendations and
guidelines
Earth Resources
GOAL 9
EN-
EN -
Protect the ecological integrity of the natural environment,
including functions and services, while allowing for
compatible growth and development by minimizing
development in geologically hazardous areas and protecting
surface water features
9.1 In geologically hazardous areas, require areas where
vegetation must remain undisturbed, land disturbance
minimized and cut -and -fill construction limited, to protect
slope stability on sites cleared for development. Require
significant replanting and maintenance upon completion of
development.
9.2 Require setbacks for buildings and other infrastructure where
needed, from the top and/ or toe of steep slopes, to reduce
risks of slope failure and risks to public safety.
EN-
EN-
EN-
EN-
9.3 Require the use of erosion control measures and, where
warranted, written erosion and sediment control plans, to
minimize erosion during and after construction activities on
steep slopes or other erosion -prone areas.
9.4 Utilize geotechnical reports and other existing resources to
update the City's GIS data to incorporate and maintain a
geologically hazardous areas layer
9.5 Ensure that proposed development projects in mapped coal
mine hazard areas adequately consider and mitigate for
possible risks.
9.6 Actively manage protective forest canopies on geologically
hazardous slopes, both public and private, through regulatory
requirements, incentives, investment, and partnerships.
EN- 9.all.1
EN- 9.all.2
EN -
Modify requirements for geotechnical
evaluations under the Environmentally
Critical Areas Regulations to expand the Near term
assessment of trees' function in slope
stability.
Ensure that erosion and pollution control
plans are adequate, and that control
measures are implemented through
inspections conducted as part of
development or redevelopment permits and
NPDES permit conditions.
Ongoing
9.all.3 Update the City's GIS system to reflect data
submitted in permits including geotechnical Ongoing
studies.
9.all.4
9.all.5
Require the use of Best Management
Practices (BMPs), erosion control measures
and, where warranted, written erosion and
sediment control plans, to minimize erosion
during and after construction activities on
steep slopes or other erosion -prone areas.
Ongoing
Require setbacks and the use of native
plant buffers for buildings and other
infrastructure where needed, from the top Ongoing
and/ or toe of steep slopes, to reduce risks
of slope failure and risks to public safety.
Urban Forestry
GOAL 10
EN-
EN -
Trees are recognized by Tukwila citizens, businesses, City
staff and decision -makers for their benefits to the
environment, climate adaptation, urban infrastructure, and
their aesthetic value
10.1 Develop a formal urban forest management plan to promote
and guide preservation, restoration and maintenance of a
sustainable urban forest that is consistent with tree canopy
goals and ecosystem management priorities, using the goals
and policies of this chapter as a basis for guidance
10.2 Ensure that the benefits of trees are factored into site design,
zoning and permit decisions, including resistance to drought,
retention of large or significant trees, tree canopy
considerations, and the preservation of open space, tree, and
green space
EN-
EN-
EN-
EN-
EN-
EN-
10.3 Continue to fund an urban forester/municipal arborist position
within the City, to provide expertise for urban forest
management planning, incorporate climate resiliency
strategies, provide oversight of tree planting and maintenance,
and assistance to all City departments that have
responsibilities for tree management
10.4 Educate the public, elected officials and City staff about the
importance of urban forest planning and management and
benefits provided by trees in Tukwila
10.5 Develop tree valuation methods to reflect the value trees
provide, including considering the benefits that trees provide
in a changing climate for use in assessing fines, determining
damages, or estimating loss of tree benefits
10.6 Identify funding sources to support urban forestry planning
and management and establish an urban forestry budget and
account to preserve and enhance the urban forest sites on
publicly -owned property
10.7 Consider developing an "exceptional" or "heritage" tree
program to foster tree appreciation in the community and
encourage retention of open and green spaces
10.8 Enhance the urban tree canopy to provide wildlife habitat,
support community resilience, mitigate urban heat, manage
stormwater, conserve energy, protect and improve mental and
physical health, and strengthen economic prosperity. Prioritize
places where Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color
communities; low-income populations; and other frontline
community members live, work, and play
03
03 EN- 10.9 Encourage public and partner organization involvement in
urban forest stewardship, through volunteer events, free
training workshops, and other related community events
GOAL 11
EN-
EN -
Overall City tree canopy increased in diversity and total
cover, with an increase in the use of native species, by 2034,
and No Net Loss of canopy cover in individual zoning
categories, or environmentally critical areas and open
spaces
11.1 The City shall adopt and implement updated tree canopy goals
and shall continue to amend policies to support stormwater
management and water quality improvement in receiving
waters. The City will provide mapping of City -owned or
operated properties with tree canopy no later than December
31, 2028, as based on available existing data
11.2 Promote and support a systematic approach to enhancing the
city through carefully planned plantings and ongoing
maintenance of street trees, public landscaping, and open
spaces to support a sustainable and environmentally just
future for residents of Tukwil
10-all.1
10-all.2
Conduct outreach with potential partners
(non-profit, business, and community
groups) and develop hands-on training to Near Term
support stewardship, restoration, and clean-
up effort.
Pursue grant and partner support for youth Near Term /
and adult green job training programs Ongoing
EN-
EN-
EN-
EN-
EN-
11.3 Promote soil stability using natural drainage systems and
retention of existing native vegetation when determined
feasible and practical by a qualified geotechnical engineer in a
site -specific asse
11.4 Conduct forest practices within environmentally critical and
shoreline areas in a manner that ensures water quality,
maintains, or increases tree canopy cover, and maintains
native vegetation buffer strips sufficient to protect fish
populations and to avoid erosion of stream banks
11.5 Ensure that required replacement trees at maturity will provide
an equivalent or greater shade cover than the removed tree(s),
and replacement trees are suitable species fit for future
conditions based on climate change models. This may result
in the need to have multiple trees replace a single tree and will
allow for the flexibility of avoiding conflict with existing or
future infrastructure and/or public or private utilities
11.6 Promote the utilization of grants and other funding
opportunities to develop tree planting and urban forest
rehabilitation programs for City parks, open spaces, wildlife
habitats and corridors, and other publicly owned lands
11.7 Collaborate with other agencies, such as Washington's
Department of Transportation, to promote planting in highway
interchanges and other locations that are underserved or at
higher risk to being vulnerable to the effects of climate change
CD
0 EN- 11.8 Develop tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs
for City parks and other publicly -owned lands. Collaborate
with other government, non-profit organization, school, and
private sector entities, to promote urban forest management
and restoration, the use of native plants in the urban
landscape, and removal of impervious surfaces to support the
City's tree canopy cover goals and mitigate the urban heat
island effect
EN -
GOAL 12
EN-
11.9 Evaluate current development requirements to identify
opportunities to increase tree canopy, and opportunities to
remove pavement and install appropriate plantings. Priority
should be given to areas or zoning designations that are
currently underserved or lack proximity to public open spaces
and recreational areas
Tukwila's streetscapes and landscaped areas are
sustainable and attractive, and its urban forest is healthy,
diverse, and safe.
12.1 Conduct periodic tree/urban forest inventories and assess the
health of trees and forests in Tukwila's public spaces to
determine maintenance needs and restoration opportunities.
Any restoration should be done in coordination with Policy
11.6 and 11.7
EN-
EN-
EN-
EN-
12.2 Develop maintenance plans and programs for trees on City
property or rights -of -way to ensure that maintenance pruning
is properly carried out, that diseases and pest infestations are
managed, that hazardous trees are identified and managed in
a timely manner to reduce risks, invasive vegetation is properly
managed, and any replacement trees are sustainably located
following the concept of "right tree, right place."
12.3 Consistent with landscape code requirements, educate
property owners, property managers, City and public and
private utility maintenance staff, and landscape contractors to
promote best practices for soil preparation, planting
techniques, pruning (including near utility lines), trenching,
root protection, and general tree care
12.4 Enforce landscape regulations including financial guarantees,
monitoring, and maintenance to ensure successful plant
establishment. Landscape code should state qualified
professional requirements for landscape design, installation
and maintenance
12.5 Ensure landscape code considers wildlife habitat corridors
and urban heat island effect in landscape development
standards. This includes -requiring a diversity of tree species
native to the ecoregion in landscape planting plans as site
conditions allow
11&12.all.1
Set a periodic schedule and budget for tree
inventory updates. Utilize GIS and other Near Term /
mapping tools to track urban forest health Ongoing
and canopy cover throughout the City.
11&12.a11.2
11&12. a 11.3
11&12.a11.4
Develop and implement maintenance plans
and programs for trees on City property as a
resource for management of streetscapes
and open spaces. Include climate change Near Term /
resiliency strategies in the City's Ongoing
plans/programs, such as retention of
wildlife corridors and mitigating urban heat
island effects on a local scale.
Prepare and publish technical
specifications for landscape professionals
and landscape contractors reflecting best
management practices/standards for
achieving adequate soil conditions, plant
quality specifications, proper planting
techniques, proper mulch placement, tree
care and pruning, and other relevant
information.
Prepare and make available technical
guidance for homeowners on tree selection,
planting, care, pruning, selecting a good
arborist, and identifying and controlling
invasive plants.
11&12.all.5 Conduct volunteer activities in parks and
other public areas to help carry out urban
forest restoration plans, to remove invasive
plants and plant native trees and other
vegetation.
Near Term /
Ongoing
Near Term /
Ongoing
Near Term /
Ongoing
11&12.all.6 Create "Adopt an Urban Forest," "Ivy
Removal Team," or similar programs, to
actively remove invasive plants and Near Term /
promote ongoing stewardship of urban Ongoing
forests in the City's parks and other public
areas.
11&12.all.7
Add an urban forestry page to the City's
website that contains information about
programs, regulations, technical guidance,
finding a certified arborist, and other
relevant issues.
Near Term /
Ongoing
11&12. a 11.8
Expand the annual Arbor Day celebration to Near Term /
widen public participation; Ongoing
11&12.all.9
Evaluate other jurisdiction's heritage tree
programs, and reach out to business and Mid Term /
resident community to determine interest in Ongoing
a heritage tree program in Tukwila.
11&12.all.1C Develop mechanisms for monitoring tree
canopy growth, removal and replacement -
in addition to periodic tree canopy
assessments - using GIS and remote
sensing methods;
11 & 12. a 11.11
Near Term /
Ongoing
Review and amend, as necessary, Critical
Area and Shoreline regulations to ensure Near Term /
consideration of tree retention, particularly Ongoing
in steep slope areas.
CC
-P 11&12.all.1�
Incorporate requirements in geotechnical
studies to ensure evaluation of the role
trees play in slope stability.
11&12.all.12 Develop incentives for increasing retention
of trees on steep slopes.
11&12.all.14
11&12.a11.1E
Near Term /
Ongoing
Near Term /
Ongoing
Provide ongoing training for City staff from
all departments on tree selection, site
preparation, proper planting techniques, Near Term /
protection of tree roots during construction Ongoing
activities, proper pruning, and general tree
care.
Prepare and publish technical
specifications manuals for utility
companies and City staff to identify Mid term
techniques to protect tree roots during ongoing
installation of public and private surface
and underground infrastructure.
11&12.all.1E Revise City regulations to allow assessment
of fines or requirement of financial Mid term
guarantees in the enforcement of corrective ongoing
actions.
11&12.all.17 Prepare an urban forest inventory for Mid term
publicly -owned trees in the City. ongoing
11&12.a11.1E
Notify property owners about applicable
tree regulations via inclusion of fliers in Mid term
storm water utility bill, direct mailings, and ongoing
media announcements.
11&12.all.1.c Improve the frequency of landscape and
tree replacement inspections, and increase
enforcement.
11&12.a11.2C Develop street tree plans for various parts
of the City, taking into account the need for
diversity for tree health and urban design
issues.
11 & 12. a 11.21
Mid term
ongoing
Mid term
ongoing
Modify landscape, tree and right-of-way
vegetation regulations, including
consideration of a point system for
landscape requirements, clarification of Mid term
responsibilities for trees on City ROW, ongoing
identifying incentive programs, and allowing
for fines based on the value of trees
damaged or removed.
CLIMATE CHANGE
GOAL 13
EN -
Tukwila infrastructure and investments enable Tukwila
residents to make choices that emit lower greenhouse gas
emissions.
13.1 Adopt and implement policies and programs that support King
County's target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75%
by 2040 (compared to a 2007 baseline), including net -zero
emissions through carbon sequestration and other strategies,
by 2050. Evaluate and update these targets over time to
incorporate the latest climate science and statewide targets
aimed at limiting the most severe impacts of climate change
and keep global warming growth under 1.5 degrees Celsius
(2.7 degrees Fahrenheit)
CD
O) EN- 13.2 Plan for development patterns that minimize air pollution and
greenhouse gas emissions, through the following actions:
EN -
a. Direct growth to Urban Centers and other mixed -use or
high -density locations that support mass transit, encourage
non -motorized modes of travel, and reduce trip lengths
b. Through interjurisdictional and local efforts, facilitate
modes of travel other than single -occupancy vehicles
including transit, walking, bicycling, and carpooling;
c. Encourage the transition to a sustainable energy future by 13.2.1
reducing demand through efficiency and conservation,
supporting the development of energy management
technology, and meeting reduced needs from sustainable
sources.
d. Support and provide incentives to increase the
percentage of new development and redevelopment— both
public and private —to be built at higher -performing energy and
environmental standards.
e. Implement infrastructure design manuals that
incorporate energy saving strategies and develop regulations
that provide extra flexibility or density bonuses to proposals
that implement green building standards, such as the Living
Building Challenge or LEED certification
13.3 Reallocate public space dedicated to carbon intensive uses,
such as single occupant vehicle lanes and parking, toward
transit, pedestrian, and bike facilities
Partner with utilities to promote energy
efficiency programs and initiatives.
Mid Term
EN-
13.4 Develop minimum standards for rights -of -way and new private
streets that require facilities for safe protected bicycle and
pedestrian routes to all destinations
EN- 13.5 Ensure all federal and state air quality standards are met and
reduce emissions of air toxics and greenhouse gases
EN-
EN-
EN-
13.6 Recognize that dense development utilizes less resources per
person and promote greater densities and mixed uses near
Tukwila's urban centers and high -capacity transit. Work with
local transit and transportation agencies to provide additional
multi -modal access and transit frequency to underserved
areas
13.7 Recognize, protect, restore, and enhance Tukwila's natural
resources, by expanding or improving existing parks, wetlands,
estuaries, and the urban tree canopy, and enhance access to
passive and active recreation areas, improving air and water
quality, and improving opportunities for carbon sequestration
in Tukwila.
13.8 Prioritize investments in areas in proximity to underserved and
historically marginalized populations in order to ensure that all
Tukwila residents have equal access to public spaces, natural
areas, the urban tree canopy, and the opportunity to make low -
emission choices in a low -pollutant environment, regardless
of their race, social, or economic status
13.9 In order to minimize air pollution and greenhouse gas
emissions, facilitate modes of travel other than single -
occupancy vehicles including transit, walking, bicycling, and
carpooling, plus, for trips that must be made via single -
occupant vehicle, facilitate electric vehicle adoption by
creating requirements for electric vehicle charging
installations in residential and commercial developments
13.9.1 Support EV charging infrastructure
throughout the community in order to
support the decarbonization of our
transportation sector.
13.9.2 In anticipation of the City of Tukwila needing to
complete a Climate Change Element for its
Comprehensive Plan by 2029, begin
examination of the data needs, stakeholder
involvement, and potential actions that will be
necessary for that planning exercise.
13.9.3
Ongoing
Near Term
Create a hierarchy of priorities for all rights -of -
way and new private streets that emphasize
pedestrian and emergency access and safety Near Term
first, followed by bicycles, transit, and carpool,
with single -occupant vehicles prioritized last.
GOAL 1
SHORELINE
Goals and Policies Strategies
Shoreline Environment designations that meet
Washington State Shoreline Management Act
requirements and reflect local conditions and
Tukwila's long-term vision for its shoreline. The
shoreline zone generally extends for 200 feet on either
side of the Ordinary High Water mark, consistent with
the Washington State Shoreline Management Act (as
illustrated in Figure 5-1).
Time
Frame
Shoreline Environment Designations
Shoreline Residential
S-
1.1 In the Shoreline Residential Environment, priority shall be
given to the following:
■ Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the
shoreline, or promote preservation of vegetation, open space,
flood plain or sensitive area lands;
N
O
O ■ Development that is compatible with the natural and
biological limitations of the land and water and that will not
require extensive alteration of the shoreline or new "hard"
structural shoreline stabilization. Where possible, the removal
of bulkheads, revetments, levees or other "hard" structural
shoreline stabilization is required. Hard structural shoreline
stabilization may be replaced with alternative bioengineered
bank stabilization;
■ On publicly -owned property, water -dependent or water -
related recreational activities that are compatible with the
character of the shoreline residential areas;
■ Maintenance of existing single-family residential
development patterns and public open space and recreation
uses;
■ Residential and recreational development that promotes
vegetation conservation and enhancement, sensitive areas
protection, and maintenance of water quality to assure no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions; and
■ Residential and recreational development that contributes
to the restoration of ecological functions in areas where
ecological degradation has occurred overtime.
Urban Conservancy Environment
S-
1.2 In the Urban Conservancy Environment, priority shall be given
to the following:
■ Development that promotes vegetation conservation and
enhancement, sensitive areas protection, and preservation of
water quality to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological
functions;
■ Water enjoyment uses;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a
shoreline -dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or
minimize flood damage;
■ Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions
provided by vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive
area lands;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood
control, consider impacts to public views, and allow for the
safe, unobstructed passage of fish and wildlife, particularly
those species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation,
whenever feasible and when ecological impacts can be
mitigated;
■ Development that is compatible with the natural and
biological limitations of the land and water that do not require
extensive alteration of the shoreline or new shoreline
stabilization, except for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of
commercial and industrial activities where shoreline impacts
are minimized and where there is no net loss of shoreline
functions.
Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of
commercial and industrial activities where shoreline impacts
are minimized and where there is no net loss of shoreline
functions.
High -intensity Shoreline Environment
N
O
IV S- 1.3 In the High -Intensity Environment, priority shall be given to the
following:
■ Water -dependent commercial and industrial uses;
■ Development that promotes vegetation conservation and
enhancement, sensitive areas protection and preservation of
water quality, to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological
functions;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a
shoreline -dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or
minimize flood damage;
■ Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions
provided by vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive
area lands;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood
control, consider impacts to public views, and allow for the
safe, unobstructed passage of fish and wildlife, particularly
those species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation,
whenever feasible and when ecological impacts can be
mitigated;
■ Development compatible with the natural and biological
limitations of the land and water that does not require
extensive alteration of the shoreline or new shoreline
stabilization, except for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of
intensive commercial and industrial activities, where
shoreline impacts are minimized and where there is no net
loss of shoreline functions.
Shoreline Aquatic Environment
S-
1.4 In the Shoreline Aquatic Environment, priority shall be given to
the following:
■ Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the
shoreline or promote preservation of vegetation, open space,
flood plain or sensitive area lands;
■ Water -dependent uses;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a
shoreline -dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or
minimize flood damage;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood
control, consider impacts to public views, and allow for the
safe, unobstructed passage of fish and wildlife, particularly
those species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation,
whenever feasible and when ecological impacts can be
mitigated;
■ Development compatible with the natural and biological
limitations of the land and water, that does not require
extensive alteration of the shoreline or new shoreline
stabilization, except for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Uses compatible with the adjoining shoreline environments.
Shoreline Planning and Management
O
GOAL 2
S-
S-
S-
Expanded value of the river as a community and
regional resource, through regional coordination of
shoreline management programs and through
programs that foster river appreciation and
awareness, involving partnerships among businesses,
schools, residents and government and community
nroani7atinns_
2.1 Coordinate shoreline planning and management activities
with other local jurisdictions and their plans — such as the
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan and the King County Flood
Hazard Management Plan —to establish region -wide
consistency in addressing river issues with regional
implications, such as economic development, public access,
wildlife habitat, water quality control and flood control.
2.2 Promote river stewardship and increase river awareness
through actions which further shoreline goals, such as
educational programs, community activities and partnerships
with Tukwila residents, businesses, schools, government, and
community organizations.
2.3 Promote and participate in the implementation of the
Watershed Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9 Plan, including
supporting the recommended projects located in Tukwila to
improve the habitat functions of the Green/Duwamish River,
as well as the Plan's policies and goals.
2.1-3.1 WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan Ongoing
2.1-3.2 Tukwila SMP Restoration Plan Ongoing
2.1-3.3 King County Flood Hazard Management Plan Ongoing
Land Development Use and Economic Vitality
General Policies
GOAL 3
S-
Development along the shoreline that fosters the
economic vitality of Tukwila while preserving the long-
term benefits of the river.
3.1 Implement shoreline design guidelines to:
■ Encourage design that views the river as an amenity;
■ Guide the design of shoreline multiple uses;
■ Establish techniques for increasing shoreline multiple use;
■ Prioritize locations for uses; and
■ Encourage removal of invasive species with nonchemical
methods and maintenance of native planted vegetation to
minimize the presence of invasive species.
S- 3.2 Design and locate all shoreline development to minimize
S- 3.3 When no other feasible alternative exists, allow structures for
water dependent uses to be placed in the water, or structural
reinforcement of the riverbank, only when this provides a
significant, long-term public benefit, does not interfere with
navigation or flood management, does not cause a loss of
shoreline function, or is essential to a water -dependent use.
S-
S-
3.4 Prohibit the construction of new flood control facilities unless
constructed to incorporate habitat restoration features, and
work to remove existing shoreline armoring —where possible —
to restore habitat functions.
3.5 Recognize and promote the river's contribution to the
economic vitality of Tukwila, as a valuable amenity for existing
and future businesses which depend on or benefit from a
N
O) S- 3.6 Ensure that shoreline development does not diminish the
commercial navigability of the river.
Tukwila Urban Center Development
S- 3.7 Design and locate shoreline development in the Tukwila
Urban Center to encourage water enjoyment uses that:
• Provide for shoreline multiple uses consistent with the
underlying zoning;
• Provide additional benefits, such as riverbank restoration,
fishing piers, non -motorized boat launches, river views, or
interpretive signs;
• Support public access to and along the shoreline;
• Provide water -enjoyment uses as a transition between the
river and non -water uses;
• Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as
clustering, mixed -use projects, cooperative parking or parking
located under principal structures, and shared utility and
access corridors; and
• Ensure that new development and re -development in the
Urban Center acknowledges the goal of a continuous street
facade along Christensen Road and the riverfront, and locates
parking facilities to the interior of the lot.
3.1-7.1
3.1-7.2
3.1-7.3
Shoreline Design Guidelines
Development standards
Tukwila Urban Center Plan
Manufacturing Industrial Center Development
S-
3.8 Ensure that non -water dependent shoreline development in
the MIC provides for shoreline multiple uses to the extent that
site security and the success of industrial operations are not
jeopardized; ensures no net loss of shoreline function and
provides adequate mitigation for the loss of shoreline multiple
use opportunities.
S- 3.9 Allow opportunities for commercial and recreational marinas
Development Outside the Tukwila Urban Center or Manufacturing Industrial Center
S-
3.10 Design and locate shoreline development outside of the
Tukwila Urban Center and the MIC to:
■ Provide for shoreline multiple uses;
■ Provide water -enjoyment uses as transitions between the
river and non -water- dependent uses;
■ Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as
clustering, mixed -use projects, cooperative parking or parking
located under principal structures, and shared utility and
access corridors; and
■ Treat the river as an amenity in the design and location of the
project.
Private Property Rights
GOAL 4
S-
Protect rights of property owners to reasonable use
and enjoyment of private property through appropriate
location, access to, and design of shoreline uses.
4.1 Design, locate and manage shoreline uses in a manner that
maintains reasonable use and enjoyment of private property.
4.2 Design and locate public access in a way that is appropriate
for the site, depending on site conditions and private property
concerns.
Ni
O
03 4.1-2.1 River design guidelines
4.1-2.2 River access guidelines
4.1-2.3 Shoreline development standards
S-
S-
S-
4.3 Special sensitivity is required for residential property;
therefore, all single-family residential development of four or
fewer single-family residential lots is excluded from
requirements to provide private or public access. Single-
family property owners are not exempt from the responsibility
to improve the habitat value of the shoreline environment.
4.4 Maintain flexibility in methods of obtaining access, to allow for
different site conditions and private property concerns that
might conflict with access, such as privacy, safety and
security.
4.5 Obtain additional easement area to permit the improvement
of river habitat, by setting back levees or removing revetments
and other hard shoreline armoring, and replacing with more
habitat -friendly shoreline treatment.
Shoreline Design Quality
•
4.3-5.1 Shoreline design guidelines
GOAL 5 Enhanced identity of the river as a unique community
asset through high -quality development and public
activities that reflect Tukwila's history and sense of
community pride.
S- 5.1 Require that shoreline development outside of the MIC: 5.1.1 River design guidelines n Shoreline development standard!
■ Ensures no net loss of shoreline function;
■ Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila river design
guidelines;
5.1.2 Shoreline development standards
5.1.3 Tukwila Urban Center Plan
S-
■ Reflects principles of high -quality design in such areas as
site planning, architecture and landscaping; and
■ Includes setbacks, bulk, height, density, landscape buffers
and provisions for open space that enhance the shoreline
environment.
5.2 Require that shoreline development in the MIC:
■ Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila shoreline design
guidelines;
■ Maintains or enhances the existing visual quality along the
■ Provides trees and other landscaping to buffer industrial
uses that are incompatible with other river uses; and
■ Provides amenities that enhance enjoyment of the river by
employees.
5.2.1 Shoreline design guidelines
5.2.2 Shoreline development standards
Access and Recreational Use
GOAL 6 Increase the amount and diversity of opportunities for
S- 6.1 Retain and improve areas identified as important in the
network of public access to the river, including cross-town
connections, former railroad rights -of -way and unimproved
street -end rights -of -way, historic sites, unique natural
features, or other areas valuable for their interpretive
potential.
S- 6.2 Maintain existing parks along the shoreline and acquire
additional park land to increase access and recreation
N
0 S-
S-
S-
S-
6.3 Incorporate river access requirements to guide the design,
location, and management of shoreline public access in all
subdivisions and short plats over four lots, as well as multi-
family, commercial, and industrial development; to identify
types of access appropriate and feasible for various site
conditions and locations; and to establish strategies, funding
sources and priorities for acquisition and enhancement of
shoreline public access.
6.4 Design, locate and manage public access for diverse types
and variable levels of intensity, in order to minimize impacts
on vulnerable features of the natural environment and to
minimize conflicts with private property uses.
6.5 Where shoreline development provides public access areas,
reserve such areas through the means most appropriate for
the type, scale and impacts of the development, such as
donation or sale of an easement or right-of-way to the City.
6.6 Support the implementation of the King County Green River
Trail— per the existing King County Green River Trail Master
Plan — as well as pedestrian/bicycle connections with the Trail
from properties on the opposite bank and the expansion of
this Trail, where appropriate.
6.1-3.1
6.1-3.2
6.1-3.3
6.1-3.4
6.1-3.5
Shoreline design guidelines
Shoreline public access guidelines
Shoreline development standards
Walk and Roll Plan
Parks and Open Space Plan
Policies For Development Outside Manufacturing Industrial Center
S-
S-
S-
S-
N
6.7 Require subdivisions, multifamily residential uses, and
commercial and industrial uses along the shoreline to provide
a trail for public access along the river, in areas identified for
trail connections consistent with the King County Green River
Trail Master Plan, Shoreline Master Program, or any other
approved access plan. Require any property not included in
the King County Green River Trail Plan to provide public
access or a private natural area in lieu of physical public
access.2
6.8 Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is
designed to be safe and convenient and includes access
amenities such as benches, drinking fountains, public parking
areas, handicapped access and appropriate lighting,
consistent with the shoreline access guidelines.
6.9 Except for single-family residential development of four or
fewer single-family residential lots, shoreline developments
shall maintain views of the water from the shoreline and from
upland areas, through appropriate design of building height,
bulk and modulation, windows, breezeways, and outdoor
spaces.
6.10 Public access improvements should be designed and
constructed to:
■ Look and "feel" welcoming to the public.
6.7.1 King County Green River Trail Master Plan
6.7.2 Shoreline public access standards
6.7.3 Walk and Roll Plan
6.7.4 Parks and Open Space Plan
6.8.1 Shoreline access guidelines
6.8.2 King County Green River Trail Master Plan
6.8.3 Walk and Roll Plan
6.8.4 Parks and Open Space Plan
6.9.1 Shoreline design guidelines
N.)
N ■ Connect to public areas, street ends, and other pedestrian
or public thoroughfares.
■ Enhance the character of Tukwila.
■ Avoid conflicts with water -dependent uses.
■ Provide for public safety and minimize impacts to private
property and individual privacy and security.
■ Require a low level of operation and maintenance.
■ Ensure that construction (i.e., structures and access
pathways) incorporates environmentally -sensitive design and
materials (e.g., non -toxic, natural materials).
S-
6.11 Improve pedestrian connections between the river, Green
River Trail and the Urban Center's commercial, office, and
residential uses.
Policies for Development in Manufacturing Industrial Center
S-
S-
S-
6.12 For MIC properties included in the King County Green River
Trail Master Plan, require shoreline development to provide a
trail for public access along the river.
6.13 Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is
designed to be safe and convenient, and includes access
amenities such as benches, drinking fountains, public parking
areas, handicapped access, and appropriate lighting,
consistent with the shoreline access guidelines.
6.14 For MIC properties not included in the King County Green
River Trail Plan, require shoreline development to provide
public access or a private natural area in lieu of public access,
or otherwise mitigate the loss of public access.
6.10-14.1 Shoreline design guidelines
6.10-14.2 Shoreline access guidelines
6.10-14.3 Walk and Roll Plan
6.10-14.4 Parks and Open Space Plan
Transportation Within the Shoreline Zone
GOAL 7 Safe corridors and amenities for pedestrians, cyclists,
and users of public transportation, allowing more
citizens to access and eniov the river.
S- 7.1 Design and locate transportation uses within the shoreline
S- 7.2 Ensure that transportation uses within the shoreline
jurisdiction and within those corridors identified as river cross -
connections provide safe, convenient and attractive
pedestrian, bicycle, and boater access and facilities for public
transportation.
S- 7.3 Minimize transportation impacts on the natural environment
(such as noises, odors, and air or water pollution), and
enhance the natural environment wherever possible through
low impact development, green stormwater infrastructure,
planting trees, and other habitat features.
S-
7.4 Encourage maintenance of the river's navigability up to the
turning basin —where this achieves a greater public interest
and a balance between costs and benefits to the broader
community, and impacts to the habitat functions of the river —
in recognition of the historical significance of navigation and
its importance to the economic vitality of water -dependent
Historical Resource Use
GOAL 8
Recognition of the river's contribution to Tukwila
history and community identity through identification,
enhancement, restoration and protection of sites with
historic and cultural value, and through development
of interpretive and educational programs.
N
- S- 8.1 Ensure that shoreline development reflects the river's
important role in Tukwila history, and that long-term public
use of the river as a historical resource is protected by
providing for the identification, protection and interpretation
of unique historic and archaeological features.
S-
S-
8.2 Ensure that public shoreline development reflects the river's
natural features and community traditions.
8.3 Ensure that archaeological artifacts and sites are protected
when development takes place in the shoreline jurisdiction.
Natural Environment and Habitat Use
GOAL 9
S-
S-
Restored, enhanced, and protected natural environmental
resources along the river, including trees, wildlife habitat,
and features with value for long-term public, scientific and
educational uses.
9.1 Ensure that shoreline development results in no net loss of
shoreline ecological function and minimizes impacts on
wildlife, and that significant vegetation, sandbars, wetlands,
watercourses and other critical areas identified as important
for habitat are maintained through the proper location,
design, construction, and management of all shoreline uses
and activities.
9.2 Ensure that shoreline development and activities protect
riverbank vegetation and, where feasible, restore degraded
riverbanks in accordance with the vegetation management
provisions of the Shoreline Master Program, in order to
minimize and compensate for impacts on fish and wildlife
habitat.
S-
S-
S-
9.3 Mitigate unavoidable disturbances of significant vegetation or
habitat through replacement of habitat and provision of
interpretive features consistent with the shoreline access
guidelines.
9.4 Support relief from certain Shoreline Master Program
requirements for properties affected by habitat restoration
projects that result in the movement of the ordinary high water
mark.
9.5 Support establishing the Transition Zone - given its
importance for subtidal and intertidal habitats - as the priority
area for habitat restoration projects, to allow salmonids to
gradually adjust to the change between fresh and saltwater
conditions.
Water Quality, Surface Water, and Flood Control Use
GOAL 10
S-
N
01
Improved water quality and quantity control programs
affecting the Green/Duwamish River that improve the
river's water quality, provide habitat for fish and wildlife,
protect public health and safety, and enhance public
enjoyment of the river.
10.1 Design, locate and manage shoreline development including 10.1-4.1 Where possible, increase levee setback n Shoreline acces!
streets, flood control projects, surface water drainage and
sewer systems, clearing and grading activities, and
landscaping in a manner that minimizes opportunities for
pollutants to enter the river, provides erosion control, and
otherwise protects water quality.
N
O) S- 10.2 Design, manage and mitigate flood control uses to minimize 10.1-4.2 Shoreline access guidelines
impacts on other shoreline uses such as trees and riverbank
vegetation, public access and recreation, and fish habitat;
and set them back from the river, where feasible for the
project, with land areas between the water and the levee set
aside as open space for public recreation or wildlife habitat.
S-
S-
10.3 Consistent with project feasibility, mitigate unavoidable
negative impacts on other shoreline uses owing to flood
control uses through such measures as restoration of trees
and native riverbank vegetation, provision of public access to
the water's edge, interpretive features, or other mitigation of
loss of opportunities for shoreline multiple uses.
10.1-4.3 Surface Water Management Plan
10.4 Obtain additional easements, where needed, from property 10.1-4.4 WRIA 9 Plan water quality policies
owners to set back levees to improve flood control and
shoreline habitat functions. Where possible, as
redevelopment occurs, replace bulkheads, revetments or
other hard bank stabilization with more natural levees,
riverbanks, or other shoreline treatments, to improve flood
control, ecological functions and habitat.
Public Health, Safety and Welfare
GOAL 11
Shoreline uses that do not endanger public health,
safety and welfare, or the capacity of the river to
provide long-term benefits and resources to the
community.
S-
11.1 Design, locate and manage shoreline uses, such as capital
improvement projects and private development, in a manner
that does not endanger public health, safety and welfare, and
enhances the capacity of the river to provide long-term
benefits and resources to the community.
Shoreline Use Preferences
GOAL 12
N
Tukwila, in developing and implementing its shoreline master
program for shorelines of statewide significance, including
the Green/Duwamish River, shall give preference to uses in
the following order of preference that:
1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local
interest;
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline;
3. Result in long term over short term benefit;
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shorelines;
5. Increase public access to publicly owned areas of the
shorelines;
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the
shoreline;
7. Provide for any other element as defined in RCW 90.58.100
deemed appropriate or necessary.
Goal1
PROS-
PROS-
PROS-
PROS-
PROS-
PROS -
PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE
Goals and Policies Strategies Time
Frame
Safe, Convenient and Connected System - Parks, recreation
opportunities, and open spaces are close to home and work
and are interconnected by safe streets, off-street trails, and
public transportation.
Create a system of close -to -home recreation opportunities,
aiming for a' -mile to 1/2-mile travel distance between most
1.1 residential uses and parks and recreation areas. Prioritize
historically underserved communities for open space
improvements and investments
Create a system of close -to -work recreation opportunities,
1.2 aiming for a'/a-mile to 1/2-mile travel distance between most
employment places and parks and recreation areas.
1.3
Link parks to neighborhood gathering spots and other
destinations in the community and region such as schools,
neighboring jurisdictions, regional parks and natural areas, and
major employment centers.
Improve the pedestrian and bicycle environment by creating
safe and efficient connections across busy streets, railways
and the Green/Duwamish River.
Increase physical and scenic connectivity with the
Green/Duwamish River.
Integrate linkages to recreation areas and open spaces when
planning and designing the transportation system.
1.1.1
Replace numerical park land level -of -service
standard with an overall park land service area
distance.
Long Term
PROS-
PROS-
PROS-
PROS-
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1.7 Align parks and recreation programs and services with public
transit service and advertise how to attend by transit.
18 Continue to provide a safely -designed and maintained trail
system.
Distribute public recreational facilities throughout the City so
1.9 that they are easily accessible to residents, visitors, and those
who come to Tukwila to work.
Create a trail system that links significant community focal
1.10 points and connects the trail network together at strategic
points.
1.10
1.10
Connect concentrations of commercial and retail activity with
1.11
the trail network.
1.12
recreation resources to offset existing and future demand.
Maximize potential and capacity of existing parks and
Identify and create opportunities to develop parks, civic
1.13 places (including schools) and public spaces, especially in
or adjacent to centers.
1.10.1 Pursue trail easements in areas with natural
amenities, and incorporate them into a City-wide
trail system
1.10.2 Seek trail easements from willing private property
owners where no public right-of-way is available for
a link in the network,
1.10.3 Consider the street sidewalk system as a link in the
connecting network, when necessary
1.13.1 Update the Public Recreation Overlay
Comprehensive Plan designation to reflect the
goals of this Element and of the Concept Map.
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Long term
N
IV
o Goal 2
A Network of Green Spaces- Recreational amenities,
historical sites, rivers, wetlands, creeks, and other natural
resources that are connected to each other and neighboring
networks of lands. This network defines Tukwila as
Northwest city; and includes visually significant bands of
vegetation that provide protection for wildlife habitat, and
that provide a contrast with -to the built environment.:
2.1 Recognize that the City's open space network will be made up
of public and private lands that provide, or have the potential to
provide, many different functions.
2.0.1
2.0.2
2.0.3
Develop a comprehensive vision for recreation Near term
along the Green/Duwamish River Corridor.
Update tree protection and clearing regulations that
achieve open space network and natural
environment goals and policies.
Near term
Support an urban forestry program to implement
policies in the Natural Environment element of the Near term
Comprehensive Plan.
2.0.4 Conduct and maintain a city-wide tree inventory,
and identify ways to improve and increase the urban Near term
tree canopy.
2.0.5 Maximize external funding opportunities and seek
matching funds from other sources, for the
Near term
purchase of open space lands identified for
acquisition.
2.0.6 Continue to work with businesses, private property
owners and volunteers to maintain and foster
stewardship of open space areas.
2.2 Retain and expand the open space network through
acquisition, donation, easements, partnerships and
regulation.
2.3 Coordinate with other regional and local plans to complement 2.3.1
and enhance the Tukwila open space network.
Integrate natural features, such as daylighting streams, and
2.4 adding trees, shrubs, and other plants into the built
environment, including residential, commercial, and industrial
areas.
Increase the public's awareness and stewardship of the City's
2.5 open space resources and benefits, including examples such
as organizing volunteer events, developing and distributing
Ni information.
Ni
2.2.1 Pursue acquisition and development of the high -
priority needs through the Capital Improvement
Program (CIP), as guided by the Parks, Recreation,
and Open Space Plan.
2.2.2 Develop property acquisition and disposition
policies and procedures with local public and
private agencies for potential open space
acquisition sites.
2.2.3 Work with property owners and encourage non -
purchase options, including conservation
easements, current use assessment, and
development covenants. Accept donations of
properties where public benefit is anticipated or
planned.
Apply a range of measures to preserve and protect
the open space network, including:
•LSensitive areas regulations.
•Shoreline regulations.
•®and altering regulations.
• Iandscaping regulations.
•®ree regulations.
D,ric Imn,rt Gooc
2.3.2 Design site planning and subdivision standards that
offer flexibility and reflect the purpose of open
space network areas.
Ongoing
Ongoing
GOAL 3
2.6.1
Monitor and maintain natural areas to control invasive species
2.6 and other impacts.
Co -locate public infrastructure, environmental and
2.7
recreational projects when practicable.
A Sense of Community - Tukwila's parks and recreation
opportunities build community cohesion by providing places
and programs for social interaction and gatherings of all
sizes, with designs that strengthen community identity.
Design parks and recreation facilities that celebrate unique
3.1 features of Tukwila and that contribute to quality of life and
neighborhood needs.
3.1
3.1
3.1
3.1
3.1
Maintain and protect undeveloped rights -of -way
within or adjacent to parks and the open space
network.
3.1.1 Partner with Tukwila Village to activate Sullivan
Center and expand opportunities for social
gatherings and cohesion. .
3.1.2 Add places for social gathering by adding features in
parks with existing capacity and in new facilities.
3.1.3 Develop design guidelines to ensure that uses and
structures adjacent to parks recognize and
complement open spaces and public amenities.
3.1.4 Prepare standards and guidelines for parks and
open spaces that ensure access to sunlight, a
sense of security, seating, landscaping,
accessibility, and connections to surrounding uses
and activities.
3.1.5 Work with public agencies to incorporate public
spaces as an important element of major public
transportation, utilities and facilities projects.
3.1.6 Examine alternative spaces for each neighborhood
in identified park access gap areas that could be
used to create a neighborhood gathering spot.
3.1
Hold community events that encourage interaction between
3.2 neighbors and celebrate the diversity of Tukwila.
3.3
the system.
Interpret local culture, history, and environment throughout
Integrate art throughout the City, guided by the Tukwila
3.4
Municipal Arts Plan.
Leverage the opportunities presented by multiple
redevelopment projects to expand Tukwila's park and trails
3.5 system into Tukwila South and Southcenter, serving the needs
of new residents, as well as visitors and workers of this
evolving area.
3.5
Goal4:
Opportunities for All - Tukwila's parks, recreation
opportunities, and public services offer something for all
ages, abilities, and cultures, in settings locations and times
that are convenient to as many as possible.
3.1.7 Consider locating parklets in commercial areas,
such as in the vicinity of Tukwila International
Boulevard and the Tukwila Urban
Center/Southcenter area.
3.2.1 Increase access to places for social gathering in
identified focus areas of the Parks, Recreation and
Open Space Plan.
3.4.1 Develop and implement a parks and public spaces
beautification program that includes public art,
landscape and streetscape enhancements, formal,
informal, seasonal and annual plantings,
installation of hanging floral baskets and banners,
new park furnishings, security lighting, etc.
3.5.1 Identify and secure a suitable location for a larger -
scale public gathering space - including but not
limited to the Southcenter/Tukwila Urban Center
area and the Tukwila International Boulevard area -
per the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan.
3.5.2 Develop strategies for public -private partnerships
that will result in public open spaces to serve as
focal points and settings for special events and
other activities.
N.)
N
-P Offer flexible recreation programming that is constantly
4.1 improving and responding to current trends and community
desires.
Provide programs, activities and special events that embrace
4.2
Tukwila's many cultures, customs and interests.
4.3 Design accessible parks, facilities, and programs for all ages
and abilities.
4.4 Increase the capacity at existing parks and recreation facilities
to maximize use and expand public access.
4.5 Provide indoor and outdoor spaces designed for increased
access and flexibility of use.
Consider future growth needs and planned density when
4.6 providing parks and recreation opportunities to meet
community needs.
4.7
businesses and organizations, and through volunteerism.
Expand program options through enhanced partnerships with
Develop a city-wide special event permitting process to
4.8 promote and encourage tourism, art, culture and sports
events.
Address mobility and accessibility barriers to parks, facilities,
and programs through the development and implementation of
4.9
a transition plan for parks and recreation, consistent with the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Ensure the provision of a variety of inclusive programs,
activities, and events to better serve persons with physical
4.10
and/or developmental disabilities and adapt offerings to
encourage social inclusion and belonging.
Provide, promote and encourage reasonable accommodations -
changes, exceptions, modifications or adjustments to rules,
4.11 policies, practices, programs or services so that a person with
a disability has an equal opportunity to use and enjoy parks
and recreation facilities, parks and programs.
Provide, promote, and encourage meaningful language access
so that persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) can
4.12 realize improved access to department programs, services,
and information, consistent with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act
of 1964.
4.1-12.1
Add places for unstructured play by adding features
in parks with existing capacity, as identified in the
Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan.
4.1-12.2 Increase access to unstructured play in identified
focus areas of the Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space Plan.
4.1-12.3
4.1-12.4
Continue to seek locations for new multi -use all-
weather and lighted sports fields and sport courts at
sites with adequate capacity, as identified in the
Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan.
Partner with the Highline, Tukwila, and Seattle
school districts, the Tukwila Metropolitan Park
District, King County, neighboring jurisdictions and
other providers, to improve community access to
programs and services during non -school hours.
4.1-12.5
Identify locations and funding for a facility serving
the Tukwila International Boulevard area.
GOAL 5
Safe, Inviting, and Affordable- Parks and facilities are safe,
well maintained and clean, and programs and services that
are welcoming and accessible for all people.
Design parks and public spaces using accepted public safety
5.1 standards such as Crime Prevention through Environmental
Design Principles (CPTED) or Defensible Space.
4.1-12.6
4.1-12.7
Develop a Recreation Program Plan that addresses
all programs and services of the Department's
programming functions, including activity selection,
type, and scope of programs, trend analysis and
program lifecycle, and outreach initiatives.
Recruit instructors and coordinators from different
cultural backgrounds to introduce the community to
activities and events from their culture.
4.1-12.8 Incorporate measures of participation diversity into
program performance targets and encourage
program offerings that reflect trending topics and
interests.
4.1-12.9
Develop and implement an ADA Transition Plan that
prioritizes the elimination of physical barriers to
parks, facilities, and programs.
4.1- Develop and implement a Language Access Plan-
12.10 the process by which the Department will provide
meaningful access to parks and recreation
programs, services and activities for persons with
LEP.
Reflect the highest standard of design quality in public
5.2 developments to enhance neighborhood quality and set a high
design standard for private development.
Develop site -specific master plans or site designs that guide all
5.3 major park improvements and that achieve cohesive design
and efficient phasing of projects.
Involve the community, including expected users and
5.4 neighborhood residents, in appropriate aspects of capital
project and program planning and implementation.
Involve community partners and volunteers in the construction
5.5 and maintenance of parks to increase the sense of public
ownership and reduce City costs.
5.6 Increase access to affordable, free, or reduced -cost programs
and services.
Expand awareness of the full range of program offerings and
5.7 recreation options made available by the City and others.
5.8 Maintain parks and public spaces so that they are safe, clean,
and welcoming.
5.1-8.1
Create a toolkit that provides updated guiding
principles and actionable tactics to inform park
planning, design and development so that parks,
trails and open spaces are more inviting, welcoming
and foster opportunities for greater belonging.
Design guidelines should include example
landscape designs, treatments, furnishings and
functionality that desired most amongst the diverse
cultures of Tukwila.
5.1-8.2
Expand recreation programming and services in
identified focus areas of the Parks, Recreation and
Open Space Plan, using a combination of mobile
programming, classes and activities held at City -
owned and school district -owned locations, and
other sites as appropriate.
5.1-8.3 Refine the cost -recovery framework to increase
affordability of all programs.
5.1-8.4
5.1-8.5
Pursue alternative service delivery models, such as
mobile programming at employment areas, to
enhance programming options and convenience.
Partner with Highline, Seattle and Tukwila school
districts, Tukwila Metropolitan Park District, King
County, neighboring jurisdictions and other
providers, to improve community access to
programs and services.
5.1-8.6 Expand and enhance volunteer programs and
opportunities.
5.1-8.7
5.1-8.8
Expand and diversify outreach efforts to increase
awareness of and involvement in parks programs.
Develop and implement a procedure for working
with expected park users and neighborhood
residents when developing new parks or land
features, or adding programs to existing parks.
5.1-8.9 Develop a sponsorship program to support low/no-
cost programming and expanded events and
activities.
Goal 6.6
Healthy People and Places - Parks and recreation
opportunities that promote healthy, active lifestyles are
designed and managed to engage and enhance the natural
environment and the local economy.
Provide services for all ages to encourage community
6.1 members to try new activities and build a habit of healthy
living.
6 2 Promote healthy food choices and active living programs as a
central focus for community education.
6.3 Strive to create projects and programs that provide social,
economic, and environmental benefit to the community.
Leverage the park, recreation, and open space system to meet
6.4 the needs of the residents while considering economic
development and needs of visitors, business, and workers.
Provide public education resources and volunteer
opportunities to promote understanding and appreciation of
6.5 Tukwila's natural environment and Green/ Duwamish River
ecosystem, while building an environmental stewardship ethic
in the community.
Encourage and support the use of public lands for urban
6.6 agriculture activities through existing and new programming or
partnerships.
Consider long-term management, operations. and
6.7 maintenance needs when implementing new projects and
programs.
5.1-8.10 Secure a non-profit partner to serve as a fiscal
sponsor/foundation supporting Tukwila Parks and
Recreation.
W
O Employ best practices in managing facilities, parks, and open
6.8 space areas, and provide continuing education for City staff on
these practices.
6.1-8.1 Provide accessible programs and classes that
promote healthy activity and food choices for
residents of all ages.
6.1-8.2
Develop a volunteer project database to serve as a
clearinghouse for Citywide volunteer opportunities.
6.1-8.3 Work with volunteer organizations and the City of
Tukwila Parks Commission to identify ways to
strengthen the park system.
6.1-8.4
6.1-8.5
6.1-8.6
Continue to provide a variety of volunteer
opportunities multiple programs and business units
, nature walks and interpretive services, as well as
use of social media and public outreach, to foster
long-term support and stewardship.
Increase environmental stewardship and
awareness by offering food system and urban
agriculture programs and classes. Identify joint -use
agreements for publicly- or privately -owned sites for
uses such as urban farms, community gardens and
pea patches.
Seek development incentives, grants, and other
funding sources, including public -private
partnerships, to support development of urban
agriculture sites and programming.
6.1-8.7 Review development regulations for barriers to
implementing urban agriculture activities.
6.1-8.8 Identify the preferred location for an additional
community garden, which may include a children's
learning garden.
6.1-8.9
Encourage and support farmers' market
opportunities that are accessible to all residents.
6.1-8.10 Develop and implement system -wide
environmental strategies for management and
operations.
6.1-8.11
Co -locate public infrastructure, environmental and
recreational projects where practical.
6.1-8.12
Conduct maintenance efficiency improvements to
better align smaller parks with the way these sites
are used by the public.
6.1-8.13
6.1-8.14
6.1-8.15
Develop and use integrated pest management
plans for all parks, with the least hazard to people,
property and the environment.
Regularly maintain and monitor natural areas to
control invasive species and other impacts.
Incorporate designs with green infrastructure, water
and energy efficiency, recycling, waste prevention
and low -impact design storm water management,
that reduce environmental impacts.
6.1-8.16 Implement recycling opportunities at all parks and
facilities.
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