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HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEPA EPIC-SA-5 - BMA MAPE INDUSTRIES OFFICE COMPLEX - ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (EIS)B.M.A. MAPE INDUSTRIES EPIGSA -5 h • Frank Todd, Mayor CITY ®r TU KV IL 6230SOUTHCENTER BLVD. TUKWILA, WASHINGTON 98067 PLANNING DEPARTMENT Higgins, McClarity & Braund ATTN: Mr. Larry Braund 16301 N.E. 8th Bellevue, Washington 98008 Dear Mr. Braund:, 11 January 1974 The Final Environmental Impact Statement filed with this office for the office complex proposed by MAPE Industries has been reviewed by the appropriate City officials 'and this letter shall constitute formal acceptance of that statement in accordance with the following stipulations. As you are already aware, the Environmental Protection Agency may require that a permit be obtained from that agency under the requirements of the Transportation Con- trol Plan, Parking Management Program. This matter should be looked into at your earliest convenience as a sub- stantial time frame is outlined within the aforementioned plan. Additionally, due to the close proximity of the Green River, both a State Flood Control Zone Permit and a Shoreline Management Substantial Development Permit are required. Inclusion of the perforated storm drainage system is regarded by this office as an encouraging and positive alternative to the usually lacking systems. However, a cross- section of the system should be included' on any plans of the proposed development as it is somewhat new to the reviewing bodies within this local jurisdiction. Only two minor suggestions have come to mind in reviewing this project. Firstly, the access road provided along the riverbank is indicated to be pavement. This office Mr. Larry Braund Page 2 suggests that it be crushed rock or.gravel, as opposed to asphalt. We feel water quality will be protected to a greater degree if this road is not paved. Secondly, in reviewing the preliminary site plan, only a very minimal amount of landscaping is provided along the north and northwest property lines. It is further suggested that an adequate buffer be provided in this area consisting of a dense evergreen planting strip as well as a living groundcover. Architectural review of all proposed structures within the overall project has been determined to be appro- priate due to the close proximity of the Green River and the present lack of an adopted Master Program for the shorelines of the City. This process is authorized, and procedures are outlined, within Chapter 18.98.080 of the Tukwila Municipal Code. Our appreciation is extended for your patience and cooperation in providing a document by which to make environmentally informed decisions regarding this pro- ject. The Final Statement, together with the discussions contained herein, shall become a supplement to any permit applications regarding any part of the overall development and shall be used as an informational source in the decision - making process by the City as well as other applicable agencies. Sincerely, Richard B. Hansen Acting Planning Coordinator GC /lt cc: Mayor Todd Dir, Pub Wks Pres, City Council Chmn, Ping Comm WILSEY& HAM, INC.. Earl P. Wilsey (1892 -1957) 15 SOUTH GRADY WAY, EVERGREEN BUILDING • RENTON, WASHINGTON 98055 • Telephone (206) 228 -1080 • Cable "WHINT" January 3, 1974 File No. 3- 2028 - 0101 -30 Mr. Richard B. Hansen. Acting Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter.Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Hansen: Enclosed are copies of the reviewing agency comments to the B.M.A. -Mape Industries Draft Environmental Impact Statement and our responses. The letters from the EPA Region X, the Washington Department of Fisheries and the Department of Game required further information which is provided. The comments from the other agencies are also well taken and can be incorporated by reference. Sincerely, WILSEY & HAM, INC. A. Llewellyn Matthews Environmental Resource Planner ALM /kb Enclosures cc: Larry Braund engineering • planning • surveying • landscape architecture • mapping • systems z w U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY REGION X 1200 SIXTH AVENUE SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 981.01 LY AN OFO TT :: MIS 325 November 14, 1973 Mr. Delbert F. Moss Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 14475 - 59th Avenue South Tukwila, Washington. 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: We have reviewed the Draft. Environmental Impact Statement for B.M.A. Mape'Industries Office Complex, located in Tukwila, Washington. It is stated in the draft statement that the water qual- ity of the Green River will be improved for certain parameters associated with an agricultural land use We agree that the conversion of an agricultural use to a commercial use will _':lessen imports for those parameters listed. Our main concern, however; lies in the fact that parameters associated with com- mercial use are not discussed. While "no data is available" ' for :.these.parameters, we believe an attempt should be made in realizing the effect they might have on the water quality. Parameters which should be studied and discussed include lead, hydrocarbons, oil, grease and heat. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this draft statement. We. would appreciate receiving a copy of the final . statement upon its availability. Sincerely, Hurlon C. Ray Assistant Regional. Administrator for Management COMMENTS TO ±A REGION X The developer will install a manufactured oil separator ( #660, produced by the Concrete Conduit Company in Auburn) prior'to the outlet to the river: This device will substantially mitigate the input of hydrocarbons to the river as a result of this project. While the effect of hydrocarbon related contaminants on the entire Green River is no doubt a problem and merits further study, the burden for such a study could more feasibly be conducted by a regional agency than by the private sector. In regard to the other parameters mentioned, it is beyond the scope of the Environmental. Impact Statement to analyze all of the volimv nous data available relating to water quality in the Green River, or to perform every conceivable study. Rather, the purpose of the Environmental Impact Statement is to alert officials and planners to probable impacts. Accordingly, the water qi' -1ity data selected for inclusion in the Environment Impact Statement was intended to give both a broad perspective of conditions in the river based on existing data. The data is a summary of data gathered by WRNS (Water Resource Manage - ment Study) from mid -July through mid- September. Data from independent research at the University of Washington in regard to metals in the Green River is included in Section B.1.d(2). Please re -refer to that section. Additional information concerning the Green River will be available when METRO completes the most recent six month report. The water quality problems experienced by the Green.River which were identified by the E.I.S. are'substantiated by the RIBCO Water Quality Management Study, Summary of Interim Report (October 1973). As this study indicates the Green River has a problem of high temperature due to its shallow depth and inadequate shading, and low dissolved oxygen .which is attributable to high temperatures and to oxygen consumption by bottom organisms (benthos). The Green River also has high coliform counts. The Duwamish Estuary suffers from phytoplankton blooms, caused in part by nutrients brought in by the Green River, and from low dissolved oxygen which is consumed by the algae land benthos. Director / Carl N. Crouse .Assistant Directors / Ralph 1V. Larson Ronald N. Andrezrs • Game Commission Arthur S. Coffin, Yakima, Chairman James R. ,lgen, LaConner Elmer G. Gerken, Quincy Claude l;ekins, Seattle Glenn Galbraith, 1Vellpinit Frank L. Cassidy, Jr., Vancouver 33E 3p.A.: eriviENT Off' G. E 600 North Capitol Way / Olympia, Washington 98504 November 7, 1973 City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Attention: Delbert F. Moss Dear Mr. Moss: Your . draft environmental impact statement - B.M.A. - MAPE Indus- tries, Office and Restaurant Complex - was reviewed`by our Seattle region staff; our comments follow. We acknowledge the thoroughness and professional approach to your analysis of this proposal. Nevertheless, there are some points and concepts which are disturbing to us. Much of our concern relates to piecemeal degradation of environmental quality and cumulative impacts of the many proposals in Green River Valley. We urge that these factors be considered and that individual projects not be viewed in isolation. We wish to apprise you of our concern about the continuing 'develop- ment of this area wherein relative percentage of surface area suitable for uptake of precipitation within proposed development areas is markedly decreased due to construction and associated paving, etc. The statement is replete with references to increasing problems of flood control, aquifer depletion, water quality, and thermal pollution. (pp. 9, 23, 25, 26, 61 -3, 66). Often solution of these problems, particularly excessive runoff, seems to be contingent upon implementation of the proposed SCS valley - drainage project. To our knowledge, there is no firm assurance that this project will be developed to fruition. Unfortunately we were unable to find alternative means of mollifying this growing problem. Reportedly, King County has given the green light to drainage of storm water into the Green (p. 11). In light of these circumstances, we wish to lodge our fear that continuing intrusion of artificially- increased surface runoff into the Green River may aggravate the problem of satiated river thermal capacity, and indirectly necessitate flood control measures such as channel dredging, levee increases, or other methods. Your statement notes, in fact, that the Army Corps of Engineers has proposed increased dredging to augment lower channel capacity and accomodate increased flows. City of Tukwila -2. November 7, 1973 Soil on the site is apparently the Newberg silt loam, which has numerous adverse characteristics, and these have been identified. But we . were unable to find an account of how the developers plan to skirt the engineering problems. Presumably the SCS or others will address this problem, but we note that Newberg soils exhibit severe limitations for foundations, and possess semi to impervious permeability when compacted. If (as we assume) this development takes place on a fill, such should be attested, so that we may objectively assess siltation threat to the Green. Biochemical data and description within the section on water quality underline our fears described above. We emphasize these facts: Green River is near thermal capacity - increased temperatures have aggravating effects on BOD; average DO already exceeds Class A standards; bottom sediments are heavily laden with soluble metals; channel dredging (p. 9) may pose complex problems of water quality, depending on the nature of spoils disposal. To sum up, we are apprehensive of the continuing increase in surface runoff and its channelization into the Green- Duwamish River, and all of the "corrective" measures which this inspires. We ask that your section on Fish (ii), within Biological Conditions, make note of the very significant run of winter -run steelhead, as well as summer -run steelhead, searun cutthroat, and Dolly Varden. Average annual spawning escapement for winter steelhead is 39,400, and for searun cutthroat, 45,800. The annual catch of winter -run steelhead in the Green has averaged around 14,000. We acknowledge the notation of drainage problems described (Unavoidable Effects), and urge the proponents to be innovative and pace- setting by adoption of the mitigating measures suggested. It is stated that for measures described to effectively reverse the trend of water table lower- ing (and begin to address the surface runoff problem)_, such measures must be widely utilized in developments throughout the valley. We view this attitude as equivalent to that whereby a person tells a fellow passenger that his end of the boat is sinking. We strongly urge the City of Tukwila and MAPE Industries to take the initiative in adoption of a general policy of surficial runoff mitigation. We favor the alternative within the proposed action of maintaining access to the river, in view of existing obstacles to recreational . use of public resources. Presumably this would obviate the reconstruction of the levee, at least in degree. Also we continue to be disturbed by the apparent write -off of the value of agriculture in Green River. We recognize the problems associated with maintenance of farming in this area. However, if .:. City of Tukwila November similar vigor, cost and imagination were devoted to solving problems associated with development of the valley, we think maintenance of farming is a viable industry and public benefit is an attainable goal. Thank you for sending your draft and asking for our comments. We trust our response will aid you in preparing your final statement. ESD:jb cc: Chitwood Agencies Sincerely, THE DEPARTMENT OF G _57 2 Eugene S. Dziedzic, Asst. Chief ,Environmental Management Division RESPONSE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF GAME The concerns expressed in your letter are well taken. The developer will take the approach suggested in your letter and will utilize techniques to minimize the lowering of the water table and the increase of surface runoff and its channelization into the Green River. Storm water will be collected from the impervious surfaces and routed through perforated pipe to an oil separator before ultimate discharge to the river. The perforated pipe will achieve upwards of 15% recharge of surface storm waters into the water table. This will help reverse the deleterious trend of lowered water tables. In regard to the engineering problems presented by Newberg soils, the con- struction techniques are mentioned in Section C.l.a. Basically the subject site surface will be unloaded. To prevent settling as a result of the buildings, an amount of soil equal to the weight of the buildings will be removed. The water quality concerns expressed in this letter have been covered in the responses to the EPA Region X and the Fisheries letters. DANIEL J. EVANS ROOM 115, GENERAL ADMINISTRATION BUILDING o PHONE 753 -6600 GOVERNOR OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON 98504 November 12, 1973 City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard 'Tukwila, Washington 98067 THOR C. TOLLEFSON . • DIRECTOR Attention Mr. Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator Gentlemen: We have been requested to review the Environmental Impact Statement pre- pared for BMA - Nape Industries for an office complex to be located in the City of Tukwila. Following are our comments:. 1. Because of several recent similar proposals for industrial and com- mercial development in the Tukwila area, we wonder if the 1962 Tukwila Comprehensive Plan has been updated to comply fully with the require - ments of the Shoreline Management Act of 1971. Public participation in formulation of the City Master Program for Shorelines was discussed in Section A -8, but it is not clear whether the proposed developments follow any established long -range plan or are consistent with all other plans and policies. 2. As pointed out, the large sand bar at the westernmost portion of the site provides one of the few locations of easy access to the river. Because the EIS also emphasized Tukwila's growing small _urban park . deficiency, we suggest that the alternative use of this area for recreational purposes should also be explored. 3. Additional industrial and commercial developments in the Tukwila area must be reviewed critically because of the cumulative impact and the ultimate capacity of the Green River to absorb environmental degrada- tion. Although the EIS claims that the proposed project would improve water quality in terms of B.O.D., coliform counts, and nutrient con- centrations, such gains could easily be offset by other deleterious effects that would be created.. 4. A Hydraulics Project Approval (RCW 75.20.100) will be required if work is done in the wetted perimeter of the Green River. 5. The fourth and fifth sentences under "Fish" (Section B -1 -e) should read: "Most of the chinook runs are produced from fry or fingerlings released from the Washington State Department of Fisheries' hatchery located on the Soos Creek tributary. Much natural spawning by chi- nook and other species of salmon also occurs." City of Tukwila Planning Department November 12, 1973 Page 2 6. In Table 13 the scientific name for starry flounder should be listed as Platichthys stellatus. I have pointed out this same error in other EIS's submitted by your Department and trust that this will. not be • repeated. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this draft statement. Sincerely, cc: D. L. Lundblad — Dept. of Ecology E. S. Dziedzic — Dept. of Game Gilbert A. Rolland " Fisheries Research Coordinator RESPONSE TO WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES 1. As mentioned in the Environmental Impact Statement, the proposed project is consistent with the current City of Tukwila Comprehensive Plan. The City Master Plan for Shorelines is currently being formulated, and it is . anticipated that a rough draft will be completed in early February. When adopted, the City Master Program for. Shorelines will be a long -range plan and will be incorporated as an element of the City Comprehensive: Plan. According to informal discussions with the City of Tukwila, the proposed project will probably be consistent with the City Master Plan for Shorelines. The existing river levee will not be affected by the proposed development, thus, wildlife habitats formed by the vegetation along the river will be preserved. Access to the sand bar will still be possible. 3. Refer to comments to the EPA response. 4+. Work will not be done within the wetted perimeter of the Green River. 5 & 6. These comments are incorporated by reference. SERVING: KING COUNTY 410 West Harrison St. Seattle, 98119 (206) 344 -7330 KITSAP COUNTY Dial Operator for Toll Free Number Zenith 8385 Bainbridge Island, Dial 344 -7330 • PIERCE COUNTY 213 Hess Building Tacoma, 98402 (206) 383 -5851 SNOHOMISH COUNTY 703 Medical - Dental Bldg. Everett, 93201 (206) 259-0288 • 410 West Harrison Street, Seattle, Washington 98119 (206) 3447330 November 23, 1973 City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Attention: Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator Subject: B.M.A. Mape Industries Office Complex Draft Environmental Impact Statement Dear Mr. Moss: This statement has been reviewed by examining the details of the exist- ing conditions and proposed project presented. Our comments in regard to air pollution control are as follows: 1. If a fuel -fired heating source for the office complex . proposed has an input rating of at least one million British thermal units per hour, a Notice of Construc- tion and Application for Approval must be obtained from this Agency. Site preparation and construction involving excava- tion and importing fill may result in unnecessary sus- pended particulate concentrations from the handling and, transporting of the loose alluvial sand and silt deposits and surface silt loam unless procedures similar to those outlined in the roads and piles section of our "Guidelines for Control of Air Pollution from Rock Processing" are followed. These guidelines are attached. If you desire further assistance or additional references for this proposal, please let us know. A. R. Dammkoehler Air Pollution Control Officer ARD /JKA:km Enclosure: Guidelines - Rock-Processing BOARD OF DIRECTORS • CHAIRMAN: Gene Lobe, Commissioner Kitsap County; Patrick J. Gallagher, Commissioner Pierce County; VICE CHAIRMAN: Robert C. Anderson, Mayor Everett; N. Richard Forsgren, Commissioner Snohomish County; Glenn K. Jarstad, Mayor eremerton; Gordon N. Johnston, Mayor Tacoma; Harvey S. Poll, Member at Large; Wes Uhlman. Mayor Seattle; _ A. R. Dammkoehler, Air Pollution Control Officer. • Puget Sour. Air Pollution CorOol Agency Tacoma Branch Office The Hess Building, Room 213 901 Tacoma Ave. S. Tacoma, Washington 98402 Telephone (206) 383 -5851 ENGINEERING DIVISION Plan Review Section 410 W. Harrison Seattle, Washington 98119 Telephone (206) 344 -7334 Everett Branch Office 703 Medical Dental Building 2730 Colby Avenue Everett, Washington 98201 Telephone (206) 259 -0288 GUIDELINES FOR CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTION'FROM ROCK PROCESSING Air pollution from rock processing equipment and adjacent roads must be controlled so as to meet the requirements of Regulation I, includ- ing Sections 9.03, 9.04, 9.09, 9.11, 9.12 and 9.15.. Pursuant. to Sec- tions 9.12 and 9.15 of Regulation I the Control Officer has established the following control measures as reasonable requirements and precau- tions to prevent particulate matter from becoming airborne: • ROCK PROCESSING - .CONTROL MEASURES 1. Hooding of dust emission points on belts, crushers and ducting the collected air to scrubber, or transfer points and a baghouse or water 2. Application of a water or chemical mist near emission points, .(a pressure above 90 pounds per square inch and. special noz- zles may be required to produce a mist that is both effective :iand.yet not cause plugging of screens), or. 3.- A combination of 1 and 2 (as. shown in Figure 4. Other control measures such as enclosure which comply with Regulation I. Visible dust emissions from rock processing equipment are usually dicative of improper design or operation. ROADS, PILES, TRUCK. LOADING, AND ROCK DRILLS - CONTROL MEASURES 1. Dust coming from in -plant roads shall be controlled by paving, or surfacing treatment which will control both air pollution and mud carry out,. :A wheel wash system may be required to .prevent mud.carry out under some conditions. 2. Dust coming from fines piles shall be controlled by the use of a dust suppressant or by providing covering to prevent., exposure to wind. 3. Dust coming from rock drills and truck loading shall be con- trolled by hooding or application of a mist. NOTICE OF CONSTRUCTION REQUIRED An approved Notice of Construction is required prior to the installa- tion or alteration of rock processing and /or control.equipment. The necessary Notice of. Construction .forms can be obtained by calling the Plan Review Section (344- 7334). 5/73 MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEKEEPING 1. The spray system shall be protected from freezing during cold weather by insulation or a change in spray feed formulation. 2. Fugitive dust shall be controlled by godd house- keeping, including, but not limited to, the following: a. Sweeping and, flushing of paved roads. Wetting or chemical coating of unpaved low traffic areas. c. Chemical coating of exposed areas to prevent windblown dust. b. CONTROL METHODS Figure 1 shows the arrangement of atomizing nozzles which develop a flat mist spray pattern. The nozzles are placed on each end of a rubber shield to suppress dust emissions from the bottom of the crusher discharge. Two nozzles which form a cone shape mist spray are often used on the top of a crusher to control dust caused by crushing. Figure 2 illustrates how a flat mist spray can be applied ahead of-a transfer point to eliminate dust. The mist should be applied to the rock before the dust is airborne. Figure 3 shows a combination_ mist and baghouse system for crushing plants. The baghouse.i.s•believed to be 99% efficient in reducing the emissions from a rock crusher. Figure 4 shows a mist system for a rock crusher plant. The use of a wetting agent reduces the quantity of liquid required for effective control. TWO FLAT ATCDIZING•TTPE IPRAY NOZZLES- ONE EACH END OF RORER SHIELD ••••- HARD RUDER SMIELO 100 FLAT ATOIIZINC-TYPE SPRAY NOZZLES. CNE EACH END OF RUBIIER SHIELD CONVEYOR BELT BELT CONVEYOR ROLLERS Figure 1. Nozzle arrangement .for control o dust emissions upon discharge -of crusher* 'Air Pollution Engineering Manual. 4 —Mist Nozzle �1T1 'E) .tI•$ 111.• .1.1 • •.: 1 BELT CONVEYOR AP40, pp. 341 WIDE -ANGLE CONE -TYPE, SPRAY NOZZLE Figure 2. Nozzle arrangement for control of dust emissions from the inlet to the shaker screens. TRUCK DUMP AND FEEDER, moo INDICATES • MIST APPLICATION PRIMARY CRUSHER SECONDARY CRUSHER SCREEN BIN AND TRUCK LOADING STATION • STORAGE PILE. TERTIARY CRUSHER TYPICAL COMBINATION MIST & BAGHOUSE SYSTEM FOR CRUSHING PLANTS TRUCK DUMP P IMARY CRUSHER Figure 3 ROCK CRUSHING PLANT ' MIST DUST CONTROL SYSTEM SECONDARY CRUSHER " SURGE PIL INCOMING WATER LINE TERTIARY CRUSHER WETTING AGENT DRUM PROPORTIONER poGc October 23, 1973 • Grand Central on the Park • First and So. Main • Seattle, Washington 98104 • 206/464 -7090 Puget Sound Governmental Conference Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 14475 - 59th Avenue South Tukwila, Washington 98067 Subject: Office Complex - Mape Industries Dear Mr. Moss: The Puget Sound Governmental Conference has received your Draft Environmental Impact Statement submitted for comments pursuant to the State Environmental Policy Act. Log number 2/395/73 was assigned to this Impact Statement on October 23, 1973 It will be helpful if you refer to this number during any future correspondence. A thirty day period is allocated for review of your Draft Environmental Impact Statement. During this period the Conference will review and comment on your Impact Statement, and solicit review comments from potentially affected localities and agencies. The purpose of this review is to insure that presently unquantified environmental amenities and values will be given appropriate consideration in decision making, along with economic and technical considerations. Mr. Dave Kalberer (phone: 464 -6873) will be responsible for the review and local coordination of your Draft Environmental Impact Statement Copies of the formal clearinghouse comments will be transmitted to you, the state clearinghouse, the appropriate funding agency, and the State Department of Ecology for their consideration. The review of your Impact Statement will follow the procedures stipulated within the 'Federal Aid Review Procedure Manual' published by the Puget Sound Governmental Conference. y trt ly yours, Mart Kask Executive Director MK: R LMc C : h c .PSGC Form R -6 (Revised 12/27/1972) WASHINGTON STATE • HIGHWAY COMMISSION 1DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAYS Highway Administration Building Olympia, Washington 98504 0206) 753 -6005 Daniel J. Evans - Governor G.H. Andrews - Director Mr. Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila. Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: B.M:A. Map.e Industries Office Draft Environmental Statement ;. Reference is made to your transmittal letter dated October 15, .requesting our review of the Draft Environmental Statement for the above referenced We have completed our review and find no conflict with existing or proposed state highways in this area. this Thank you for the opportunity. to review . information.. H. R...GQ FF .Assistant Director for Planning, ,Research and State Aid GOVERN0T DANIEL J. EVANS COMMISSIONERS: JEFF D. DOMASKIN THOMAS C. GARRETT MRS. KAY GREEN RALPH E. MACKEY JAMES G. McCURDY JAMES W. WHITTAKER WILFRED R. WOODS DIRECTOR CHARLES H. ODEGAARD WA7ASHINGTON STATE P.ArtaCS SC l'IMC 2:1MATI l'eq COMMISSION' LOCATION: THURSTON AIRDUSTRIAL CENTER PHONE 753 -5755 P. 0. BOX 1128 OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON 98504 Mr. Delbert F. Moss Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 14475 59th Avenue South Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: October 25, 1973 Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Office Complex, B.M.A. Mape Industries The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has no comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the office complex owned by B.M.A. Mape Industries. DWH:sg 1743 Sincerely, David W. Heiser Assistant Chief Research, Planning and Acquisition �.° 3 Frank Todd, Mayor C !TY o F T LA . 14475 - 59TH AVENUE SOUTH TUKWILA, WASHINGTON 98067 28. November. 1973 .. PLANNING. DEPARTMENT Mape Industries 2383 East Bayshore, Suite 100 Palo Alto, California 94303 ATTN: Mr. Howard A. Brown, President Dear Mr. Brown: The Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Mape Industries Office Complex has been circulated to the applicable agencies and the bulk of their comments have been received. Copies of those comments are enclosed for your perusal and guid- ance in revising the Draft Statement to establish a Final Statement. Attention should be focused on those comments suggesting additional discussion of specific matters. The inclusion of those discussions should be adequate to satisfy the respective agency's concern and thus satisfy the requirement for a complete Final Statement in accordance with the State Environmental Policy Act. Should you have any:,giuestions or desire any assistance in this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at 242 -2177. Sincerely, 1l GC /lt Encl: 1. Ltr, 2. Ltr, 3. Ltr, 4. Ltr, 5. Ltr, 6. Ltr, 7. Ltr, ry ¢`rutchfield Planr}ing Technici PSAPCA, dtd 23 Nov 73 Dept of Game, dtd 7 Nov 73 Dept of Fisheries, dtd 12 Nov 73 EPA, dtd 14 Nov 73 Wash. Hwy Comm, dtd 1 Nov 73 PSGC, dtd 23 Oct 73 Pks & Rec Comm, dtd 25. Oct 73 cc: Mayor Todd Dir Pub Wks Bldg Off Higgins, McClarty & Braund U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY REGION X 1200 SIXTH AVENUE SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 98101 November 14, 1973 REPLY TO ATTN OF: M/S 325 Mr. Delbert F. Moss Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 14475 - 59th Avenue South Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: We have reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for B.M.A. Mape Industries Office Complex, located in Tukwila, Washington. It is stated in the draft statement that the water qual- ity of the Green River will be improved for certain parameters associated with an agricultural land use. We agree that the conversion of an agricultural use to a commercial use will lessen imports for those parameters listed. Our main concern, however, lies in the fact that parameters associated with com- mercial use are not discussed. While "no data is available" for these parameters, we believe an attempt should be made in realizing the effect they might have on the water quality. Parameters which should be studied and discussed include lead, hydrocarbons, oil, grease and heat. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this draft statement. We would appreciate receiving a copy of the final statement upon its availability. Hurlon C. Ray Assistant t Regional Administrator for Management SERVING: KING COUNTY 410 West Harrison St. Seattle, 98119 (206) 344 -7330 KITSAP COUNTY Dial Operator for Toll Free Number Zenith 8385 Bainbridge Island, Dial 344 -7330 PIERCE COUNTY 213 Hess Building Tacoma, 98402 (206) 383 -5851 SNOHOMISH COUNTY 703 Medical - Dental Bldg. Everett, 98201 (206) 259 -0288 Enclosure: Guidelines - Rock.-Processing 410 West Harrison Street, Seattle, Washington 98119 (206) 344 -7330 November 23, 1973 E' MED &ON Poa ooa ©fr► (A MLa© 7 City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Attention: Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator Subject: B.M.A. Mape Industries Office Complex Draft Environmental Impact Statement Dear Mr. Moss: This statement has been reviewed by examining the details of the exist- ing conditions and proposed project presented. Our comments in regard to air pollution control are as follows: 1. If a fuel -fired heating source for the office complex proposed has an input rating of at least one million British thermal units per hour, a Notice of Construc- tion and Application for Approval must be obtained from IT Agency. 2. Site preparation and construction involving excava- tion and importing fill may result in unnecessary sus- pended particulate concentrations from the handling and transporting of the loose alluvial sand and silt deposits and surface silt loam unless procedures similar to those outlined in the roads and piles section of our "Guidelines for Control of Air Pollution from Rock Processing- are followed. These guidelines are attached. If you desire further assistance or additional references for this proposal, please let us know. ARD /JKA:km Very tr ly yo A. R. Dammkoehler Air Pollution Control Officer BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN: Gene Lobe, Commissioner Kitsap County; Patrick J. Gallagher, Commissioner Pierce County; John D. Spellman, King County Executive; VICE CHAIRMAN: Robert C. Anderson, Mayor Everett; N. Richard Forsgren, Commissioner- Snohomish County; Glenn K. Jarstad, Mayor Bremerton; Gordon N. Johnston, Mayor Tacoma, Harvey 5. Poll, Member at Large, Wes Uhlman, Mayor Seattle; A. R. Dammkoehler, Air Pollution Control Officer. Puget Souk Air Pollution Cool Agency Tacoma Branch Office The Hess Building, Room 213 901 Tacoma Ave. S. Tacoma, Washington 98402 Telephone (206) 383 -5851 ENGINEERING DIVISION Plan Review Section 410 W. Harrison Seattle, Washington 98119 Telephone (206) 344 -7334 Everett Branch Office 703 Medical Dental Building 2730 Colby Avenue Everett, Washington 98201 Telephone (206).259 -0288 GUIDELINES FOR CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTION FROM ROCK PROCESSING Air pollution from rock processing equipment and adjacent roads must be controlled so as to meet the requirements of Regulation I, includ- ing Sections 9.03, 9.04, 9.09, 9.11, 9.12 and 9.15.. Pursuant to Sec- tions 9.12 and 9.15 of Regulation I the Control Officer has established the following control measures as reasonable requirements and precau- tions to prevent particulate matter from becoming airborne: ROCK PROCESSING - CONTROL MEASURES 1. Hooding of dust emission points on belts, transfer points and crushers and ducting the collected air to a baghouse or water scrubber, or 2. Application of a water or chemical mist near emission points, (a pressure above 90 pounds per square inch and special noz- zles may be required to produce a mist that is both effective and yet not cause plugging of screens), or 3. A combination of 1 and 2 (as shown in Figure 3), or 4. Other control measures such as enclosure which comply with Regulation I. Visible dust emissions from rock processing equipment are usually in- dicative of improper design or operation. ROADS, PILES, TRUCK LOADING, AND ROCK DRILLS - CONTROL MEASURES 1. Dust coming from in -plant roads shall be controlled by paving, or surfacing treatment which will control both air pollution and mud carry out. A wheel wash system may be required to prevent mud carry out under some conditions. 2. Dust coming from fines piles shall be controlled by the use of a dust suppressant or by providing covering to prevent exposure to wind. 3. Dust coming from rock drills and truck loading shall be con- trolled by hooding or application of a mist. NOTTCE OF CONSTRUCTION REQUIRED An approved Notice of Construction is required prior to the installa- tion or alteration of rock processing and /or control equipment. The necessary Notice of Construction forms can be obtained by calling the Plan Review Section (344- 7334). 5/73 -2- MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEKEEPING 1. The spray system shall be protected fromifreezing during cold weather by insulation or a change in spray feed formulation. 2. Fugitive dust shall be controlled by godd house- keeping, including, but not limited to, the following: a. Sweeping and flushing of paved roads. b. Wetting or chemical coating of unpaved low traffic areas. c. Chemical coating of exposed areas to prevent windblown dust. CONTROL METHODS Figure 1 shows the arrangement of atomizing nozzles which develop a flat mist spray pattern. The nozzles are placed on each end of a rubber shield to suppress dust emissions from the bottom of the crusher discharge. Two nozzles which form a cone shape mist spray are often used on the top of a crusher to control dust caused by crushing. Figure 2 illustrates how a flat mist spray can be applied ahead of a transfer point to eliminate dust. The mist should be applied to the rock before the dust is airborne. Figure 3 shows a combination mist and baghouse system for crushing plants. The baghouse is believed to be 99% efficient in reducing the emissions from a rock crusher. Fi ure 4 shows a mist system for a rock crusher plant. The use of-a wetting agent reduces the quantity of liquid required for effective control. TIO FLAT ATONIZINC•TVPE SPIN NOZZLES. ONE EACN END Of NUMBER SHIELD -3- NAND RUBBER SNIELO TIO FLAT ATONIZING•TYPE SPRAY NOZZLES. ONE (ACM ENO OF RUBBER SNI(L0 ........... CCIVEYON /ELT BELT CONVEYOR ROLLERS Figure 1. Nozzle arrangement for control of dust emissions upon discharge of crusher *Air Pollution Engineering Manual. AP40, pp. 341 If • —Mist Nozzle • fir, �rl I ''T qos .11,1 *F,11 BELT CONVEYOR IIOE -ANGLE CONE -TYPE SPRAY NOZZLE Figure 2. Nozzle arrangement for control of dust emissions from the inlet to the shaker screens. TRUCK DUMP AND FEEDER, BAGHOUSE INDICATES ♦ MIST APPLICATION PRIMARY CRUSHER SECONDARY CRUSHER SCREEN SCREEN BIN AND TRUCK LOADING STATION STORAGE PILE TERTIARY CRUSHER TYPICAL COMBINATION MIST & BAGHOUSE SYSTEM FOR CRUSHING PLANTS Figure 3 TRUCK DUMP ROCK CRUSHING PLANT MIST DUST CONTROL SYSTEM P IMARY CRUSHER SURGE PIL Y •___ SECONDARY -CRUSHER" /....000000:0000°51 INCOMING WATER LINE 1 TERTIARY CRUSHER jEltITETTING AGENT DRUM PROPORTIONER Figure 4 Director / Carl N. Crouse Assistant Directors / Ralph W. Larson Ronald N. Andrews Game Commission Arthur S. Coffin, Yakima, Chairman James R. Agen, LaConner Elmer G. Gerken, Quincy Claude Bekins, Seattle Glenn Galbraith, 1Vellpinit Frank L. Cassidy, Jr., Vancouver DEPARTMENT OF' GAME 600 North Capitol Way / Olympia, Washington 98504 November 7, 1973 City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Attention: Delbert F. Moss Dear Mr. Moss: Your draft environmental impact statement - B.M.A. - MAPE Indus- tries, Office and Restaurant Complex - was reviewed by our Seattle region staff; our comments follow. We acknowledge the thoroughness and professional approach to your analysis of this proposal. Nevertheless, there are some points and concepts which are disturbing to us. Much of our concern relates to piecemeal degradation of environmental quality and cumulative impacts of the many proposals in Green River Valley. We urge that these factors be considered and that individual projects not be' viewed in isolation. We wish to apprise you of our concern about the continuing develop- ment of this area wherein relative percentage of surface area suitable for uptake of precipitation within proposed development areas is markedly decreased due to construction and associated paving, etc. The statement is replete with references to increasing problems of flood control, aquifer depletion, water quality, and thermal pollution. (pp. 9, 23, 25, 26, 61 -3, 66). Often solution of these problems, particularly excessive runoff, seems to be contingent upon implementation of the proposed SCS valley - drainage project. To our knowledge, there is no firm assurance that this project will be developed to fruition. Unfortunately we were unable to find alternative means of mollifying this growing problem. Reportedly, King County has given the green light to drainage of storm water into the Green (p. 11). In light of these circumstances, we wish to lodge our fear that continuing intrusion of artificially- increased surface runoff into the Green River may aggravate the problem of satiated river thermal capacity, and indirectly necessitate flood control measures such as channel dredging, levee increases, or other methods. Your statement notes, in fact, that the Army Corps of Engineers has proposed increased dredging to augment lower channel capacity and accomodate increased flows. City of Tukwila • • -2- November 7, 1973 Soil on the site is apparently the Newberg silt loam, which has numerous adverse characteristics, and these have been identified. But we were unable to find an account of how the developers plan to skirt the engineering problems. Presumably the SCS or others will address this problem, but we note that Newberg soils exhibit severe limitations for foundations, and possess semi to impervious permeability when compacted. If (as we assume) this development takes place on a fill, such should be attested, so that we may objectively assess siltation threat to the Green. Biochemical.data and description within the section on water qua,l ity;�underl;i;ne.our fears described above.. We ,emphasize these facts: Green Rivers near thermal capacity - increased temperatures have.aggr.avating effects on BOD; average DO already exceeds Class A standards; bottom sediments are heavily laden with soluble metals; channel dredging (p. 9) may pose complex problems of water quality, depending on the nature of spoils disposal. To sum up, we are apprehensive of the continuing increase in surface runoff and its channelization into the Green - Duwamish River, and all of the "corrective" measures which this inspires. We ask that your section on Fish (ii), within Biological Conditions, make note of the very significant run of winter -run steelhead, as well as summer -run steelhead, searun cutthroat, and Dolly Varden. Average.` annual spawning escapement for winter steelhead is 39,400, and for searun cutthroat, 45,800. The, annual catch of winter -run steelhead in the Green has averaged around 14,000. We acknowledge the notation of drainage problems described (Unavoidable Effects) and urge the proponents to be innovative and pace - setting by adoption .of the :mitigating measures suggested. It is stated that for measures described to effectively reverse the trend of water table lower- ing (and begin to address the surface runoff, problem), such measures must be widely utilized in developments throughout the valley. We view this attitude as equivalent to that whereby a person tells -a fellow passenger that.his end: .pf, the boat..i sK. sinking: We : strongly urge °the::Ci ty` of Tukwila "alnd `MAPS Industries to take the initiative in adoption of a general policy of surficial runoff mitigation. We favor the alternative within the proposed action of maintaining access to the river, in view of existing obstacles to recreational use of p(ublic resources. Presumably this would obviate the reconstruction of the 16ee, at least in degree. : Also we continue to be disturbed by the apparent write -off of the value of agriculture in Green River. We recognize the problems associated with maintenance of farming in this area. However, if City of Tukwila -3- November 7, 1973 similar vigor, cost and imagination were devoted to solving problems associated with development of the valley, we think maintenance of farming is a viable industry and public benefit is an attainable goal. Thank you for sending your draft and asking for our comments. We trust our response will aid you in preparing your final statement. ESD: j b cc: Chitwood Agencies Sincerely, THE DEPARTMENT OF G -5: 2 /c. Eugene S. Dziedzic, Asst. Chief Environmental Management Division DANIEL J. EVANS GOVERNOR ROOM 115, GENERAL ADMINISTRATION BUILDING 9 PHONE 753 -,6600 OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON 98504 November 12,'1973 City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Attention Mr. Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator Gentlemen: THOR C. TOLLEFSON DIRECTOR We have been requested to review the Environmental Impact Statement pre- pared for BMA - Mape Industries for an office complex to be located in the City of Tukwila. Following are our comments: 1. Because of several recent similar proposals for industrial and com- mercial development in the Tukwila area, we wonder if the 1962 Tukwila Comprehensive Plan has been updated to comply fully with the require- ments of the Shoreline Management Act of 1971. Public participation in formulation of the City Master Program for Shorelines was discussed in Section A -8, but it is not clear whether the proposed developments follow any established long -range plan or are consistent with all other plans and policies. 2. As pointed out, the large sand bar at the westernmost portion of the site provides one of the few locations of easy access to the river. Because the EIS also emphasized Tukwila's growing small urban park deficiency, we suggest that the alternative use of this.area for recreational purposes should also be explored. 3. Additional industrial and commercial developments in the Tukwila area must be reviewed critically because of the cumulative impact and the ultimate capacity of the Green River to absorb environmental degrada- tion. Although the EIS claims that the proposed project would improve water quality in terms of B.O.D., coliform counts, and nutrient con- centrations, such gains could easily be offset by other deleterious effects that would be created.. 4. A Hydraulics Project Approval (ROW 75.20.100) will be required if work is done in the wetted perimeter of the Green River. 5. The fourth and fifth sentences under "Fish" (Section B -1 -e) should read: "Most of the chinook runs are produced from fry or fingerlings released from the Washington State Department of Fisheries' hatchery located on the Soos Creek tributary. Much natural spawning by chi- nook and other species of salmon also occurs." • • City of Tukwila Planning Department November 12, 1973 Page 2 6. In Table 13 the scientific name for starry flounder should be listed as Platichthys stellatus. I have pointed out this same error in other EIS's submitted by your Department and trust that this will not be repeated. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on this draft statement. Sincerely, Gilbert A. Holland Fisheries Research Coordinator cc: D. L. Lundblad - Dept. of Ecology E. S. Dziedzic - Dept. of Game WASHINGTON STATE • HIGHWAY COMMISSION DEPARTMENT OF HIGHWAYS Highway Administration Building Olympia, Washington 98504 (206) 753 -6005 Mr.. Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: Daniel 1. Evans - Governor G.H. Andrews - Director November 1, 1973 B.M.A. MapeIndustries Office Complex Draft Environmental Statement Reference is made to your transmittal letter dated October 15, requesting our review of the Draft Environmental Statement for the above referenced project. We have completed our review and find no conflict with existing or proposed state highways in this area. Thank you for the opportunity to review this information. Sincerely? G. H. ANDREWS Director of Highways GHA : eh HRG A. H. Parker Chairman Bremerton By: H. x‘. G•OFF Assistant Director for Planning, Research and State Aid Harold Walsh Baker Ferguson Virginia K. Gunby Howard Sorensen Harold L. Boulac Everett Walla Walla Seattle Ellensberg secretary P5GC October 23, 1973 • • Grand Central on the Park • First and So. Main • Seattle, Washington 98104 • 206/464 -7090 Puget Sound Governmental Conference Delbert F. Moss, Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 14475 - 59th Avenue So.uth Tukwila, Washington 98067 Subject: Office Complex - Mape Industries Dear Mr. Moss: The Puget Sound Governmental Conference has received your Draft Environmental Impact Statement submitted for comments pursuant to the State Environmental Policy Act. Log number 2/395/73 was assigned to this Impact Statement on October 23, 1973 . It will be helpful if you refer to this number during any future correspondence. A thirty day period is allocated for review of your Draft Environmental Impact Statement. During this period the Conference will review and comment on your Impact Statement, and solicit review comments from potentially affected localities and agencies. The purpose of this review is to insure that presently unquantified environmental amenities and values will be given appropriate consideration in decision making, along with economic and technical considerations. Mr. Dave Kalberer (phone: 464 -6873 ) will be responsible for the review and local coordination of your Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Copies of the formal clearinghouse comments will be transmitted to you, the state clearinghouse, the appropriate funding agency, and the State Department of Ecology for their consideration. The review of your Impact. Statement will follow the procedures stipulated within. the 'Federal Aid Review Procedure Manual' published. by the Puget Sound Governmental Conference. Mart Kask Executive Director MK: RLMcC: he PSGC Form R -6 (Revised 12/27/1972) GOVERNOR DANIEL J. EVANS COMMISS ONERS: JEFF D. DOMASKIN THOMAS C. GARRETT MRS. KAY GREEN RALPH E. MACKEY JAMES G. McCURDY JAMES W. WHITTAKER WILFRED R. WOODS DIRECTOR CHARLES H. ODEGAARD WASHINGTON STATE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION LOCATION: THURSTON AIRDUSTRIAL CENTER PHONE 753 -5755 P. O. BOX 1128 OLYMPIA, WASHINGTON 98504 Mr. Delbert F. Moss Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 14475 59th Avenue South Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: October 25, 1973 Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Office Complex, B.M.A. Mape Industries The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has no comment on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the office complex owned by B.M.A. Mape Industries. Sincerely, David W. Heiser Assistant Chief Research, Planning and Acquisition DWH:sg 3 U. S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION, Room 412 Mohawk Building 222 S.W. Morrison Street Portland, Oregon 97204 November. 28, 1973 IN REPLY REFER TO 10-00.33 Mr. Delbert F. Moss Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: The draft environmental statement covering the construction of the Mape Industries office complex in Tukwila has been reviewed by our Regional Office and Washington Division Office staffs. Our reivew indicates that this draft environmental statement is adequate for purposes of this office's interest in highway matters. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this proposal. Very truly your. /q, 40 // M. 10 GRE N Deputy Regional Administrator U.S. ENi ONMENTAI PROTECTION• AGENCY REGION X REPLY TO ATTN OF I�'IIS 325 1200 SIXTH AVENUE SEATTLE, WASHINGTON 98101 November 14, 1973 Mr. Delbert F. Moss Planning Coordinator City of Tukwila 14475 - 59th Avenue South Tukwila, Washington 98067 Dear Mr. Moss: We have reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for B.M.A. Mape industries Office Complex, located in Tukwila, Washington. It is stated in the draft statement that the water qual- ity of the Green River will be improved for certain parameters associated with an agricultural land use. We agree that the conversion of an agricultural use to a commercial use will lessen imports for those parameters listed. Our main concern, however, lies in the fact that parameters associated with com- mercial use are not discussed. While "no data is available" for these parameters, we believe an attempt should be made in realizing the effect they might have on the water quality. Parameters which should be studied and discussed include lead, hydrocarbons, oil, grease and heat. Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this draft statement. We would appreciate receiving a copy of the final statement upon, its availability. Sincerely, -25z:)":e Hurlon C. Ray Assis ant Regional Administrator for Management Director / Carl N. Crouse Assistant Directors / Ralph W. Larson Ronald N. Andrews Game Commission Arthur S. Coffin, Yakima, Chairman James R. Agen, LaConner Elmer G. Gerken, Quincy Claude Bekins, Seattle Glenn Galbraith, 1Vellpinit Frank L. Cassidy, Jr., Vancouver DEPAJR,TMEl\TT OP' GAME 600 North Capitol Way / Olympia, Washington 98504 PoSS (I L (N j�—Y3 November 7, 1973 LAD/ LiZ°L0 tt40(3 CFA 4XILi9ik "Uov C73 City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Attention: Delbert F. Moss Dear Mr. Moss: Your draft environmental impact statement- B.M.A. - MAPE Indus- tries, Office and Restaurant Complex - was reviewed by our Seattle region staff; our comments follow. We acknowledge the thoroughness and professional approach to your analysis of this proposal. Nevertheless, there are some points and concepts which are disturbing to us. Much of our concern relates to piecemeal degradation of environmental quality and cumulative impacts of the many proposals in Green River Valley. ,We_ur_ge_tha_t these factors �be- considered and—that :_individua _ipojects == not -:be- "viewed n- isolation E5 j- -v SlO'\) OF LOMpaENENStvr. oar+ DiljA IN (204•4 We wish to apprise you of our concern about the continuing develop- ment of this area wherein relative percentage of surface area suitable for uptake of precipitation within proposed development areas is markedly decreased due to construction and associated paving, etc. The statement is replete with references to increasing problems of flood control, aquifer depletion, water quality, and thermal pollution. (pp. 9, 23, 25, 26, 61 -3, 66). Often solution of these problems, particularly excessive runoff, seems to be contingent upon implementation of the proposed SCS valley - drainage project. To our knowledge, there is no firm assurance that this project will be developed to fruition. Unfortunately we were unable to find alternative means of mollifying this growing problem. Reportedly, King County has given the green light to drainage of storm water into the Green (p. 11). In light of these circumstances, we wish to lodge our fear that continuing intrusion of artificially- increased surface runoff into the Green River may aggravate the problem of satiated river thermal capacity, and indirectly necessitate flood control measures such as channel dredging, levee increases, or other methods. Your statement notes, in fact, that the Army Corps of Engineers has proposed increased dredging to augment lower channel capacity and accomodate increased flows. City of Tukwila 2 November 7, 1973 Soil on the site is apparently the Newberg silt loam, which has numerous adverse characteristics, and these have been identified. But we were unable to find an account of how the developers plan to skirt the engineering problems. Presumably the SCS or others will address this problem, but we note that Newberg soils exhibit severe limitations for foundations, and possess semi to impervious permeability when compacted. tl=f-- -(as we assume) this development takes place on a fill, such should be, cattes ted ,= so-that- -we may objectively assess siltation-threat-to the - Green. Biochemical data and description within the section on water quality underline our fears described above. We emphasize these facts: Green-River capacity - increased temperatures have aggravating effects on BOD; average= DO- already_ exceeds C1ass=A= standards.; bottom sediments are heavil ,' ol_' - n-.•_ • channel dredging p. 9) ex problems of water quality, depending on the nature of spoils disposal. To sum up, we are apprehensive of the continuing increase in surface runoff and its channelization into the Green - Duwamish River, and all of the "corrective" measures which this inspires. We ask that your section on Fish (ii), within Biological Conditions, make note of the very significant run of winter -run steelhead, as well as summer -run steelhead, searun cutthroat, and Dolly Varden. Average annual spawning escapement for winter steelhead is 39,400, and for searun cutthroat, 45,800. The annual catch of winter -run steelhead in the Green has averaged around 14,000. We acknowledge the notation of drainage problems described (Unavoidable Effects), and urge the proponents to be innovative and pace- setting by adoption of the mitigating measures suggested. It is stated that for measures described to effectively reverse the trend of water table lower- ing (and begin to address the surface runoff problem), such measures must be widely utilized in developments throughout the valley. We view this attitude as equivalent to that wt by a person tells a fellow passenger that his end the boat is si nki n We=-strongly -- ur-ge== -the =Ci ty-of- -Tukwi 1a - -:and -MAPS Industries-to take the initiative in adoption of a general policy of.surficial runoff mitigati =on. - - - -- ---- We favor the alternative within the proposed action of maintaining access to the river, in view of existing obstacles to recreational use of public resources. Presumably this would obviate the reconstruction of the levee, at least in degree. Also we continue to be disturbed by the apparent write -off of the value of agriculture in Green River. We recognize the problems associated with maintenance of farming, in this area. However, if City of Tukwila -3- November 7, 1973 similar vigor, cost and imagination were devoted to solving problems associated with development of the valley, we think maintenance of farming is a viable industry and public benefit is an attainable goal. Thank you for sending your draft and asking for our comments. We trust our response will, aid you in preparing your final statement. Sincerely, THE DEPARTMENT OF G ESD:jb cc: Chitwood Agencies .5 bz'ad�r,c Eugene S. Dziedzic, Asst. Chief Environmental Management Division • • Frank Todd, Mayor CITY or TUKWILA 14475 - 59TH AVENUE SOUTH TUKWILA, WASHINGTON 98067 15 October 1973 Gentlemen: Please find enclosed herewith a copy of the Environ- mental Impact Statement prepared for B.M.A. Mape Industries for an office complex to be located in the City of Tukwila. The statement has been reviewed by this office in accor- dance with the National and State Environmental Policy Acts as well as in regard to Federal, State, regional and local plans and programs. This office would appreciate any comments regarding this Statement within thirty (30) days from date of this letter. Please relate your comments in writing and direct them to this office at 6230 Southcenter Boulevard, Tukwila, Washington 98067. Sincerely, 2b7:7- Delbert F. Moss Planning Coordinator GC /lt Encl: as The draft Environmental Impact Statement for an Office Complex owned by B.M.A. Mape Industries were sent on 15 October 1973 to the following agencies: State of Washington Planning & Community Affairs Agency General Admin. Bldg. Olympia, Washington 98504, Puget Sound Governmental Conference Grand Central on the Park. First and South Main Seattle, Washington 98104 State of Washington Dept. of Highways District #7 10506 N.E. 4th Bellevue, Washington 98004 State of Washington Dept. of Commerce and Economic Development 312 - 1st North Seattle, Washington 98109 State of Washington Dept. of Social &Health Services ATTN: Mr. Max Hays P.O. Box 1788 Olympia, Washington 98504 State of Washington Dept. of Natural Resources ATTN: Mr. Bill Roberts Public Lands Building Olympia, Washington 98504 State of Washington Parks and Recreation Comm. P.O. Box 1128 Olympia, Washington 98504 State of Washington Dept. of Ecology ATTN: Mr. Leighton Pratt Olympia, Washington 98504 State.of Washington Department of Game ATTN: Mr. John Ward 600 North Capitol Way ,Olympia, Washington 98504 State of Washington Department of Fisheries ATTN: Mr. Hank Carter 5803 Capitol Boulevard Olympia, Washington 98504 U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service 909 - 1st Avenue Seattle, Washington 98104 U.S.. Environmental Protection Agency ATTN: M/S 325 1200 . - 6th Avenue Seattle, Washington 98101 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Seattle District ATTN: Planning Branch 1519 Alaskan Way South Seattle, Washington 98101 Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency 410 West Harrison St. Seattle, Washington 98119 Federal Highway Administration ATTN: Division Engineer P.O. Box 29 Olympia, Washington 98507 CrIV PRE i7n, MULE, mg -MY SCI fi Kalkfid OIn�C�o MEHVOIKI, Ma3X. WZO SUMMARY.SHEET Nature of this Report: Draft Environmental Impact Statement Sponsor: City of Tukwila Planning Department 6230 Southcenter Boulevard Tukwila, Washington 98067 Delbert F. Moss - Planning Coordinator Type of Proposed Action: Administrative decisions by the City of Tukwila in review of proposals and permit approval for the development of an office complex and restaurant by B.M.A. -Mape Industries. Official Title of Proposed Action and Summary of Proposed Action: a. Official Action - Permits to be granted: 1. Shoreline Substantial Management Permit 2. Grading Permit 3. Building Permit 4. Sewer and Water Permit 5. Permits to power, natural gas, and telephone utilities. b. Other Official Action - Review: 1. Review of State Department of Ecology Flood Zone Permits by Public Works Director. 2. Review of storm drainage system discharge by Public Works Director. 3. Review of plans, site plans, elevations, curb cuts and related work by the City of Tukwila. c. Summary of the Proposed Action The purpose of the proposed action is to undertake all official action necessary to allow for the construction of the office complex and restaurant by B.M.A.- Mape Industries. Summary of Environmental Impacts: a. Topographic /Geologic Impact The surface of the subject site will be altered to the extent that an excavation will be made to remove existing fill under the building and imported fill will be compacted in place. b. Surface Drainage and Water Quality Impact Surface drainage will be accomplished by discharge into the river. Increased impervious surfaces will reduce water reaching the water table. Suspended solids, hydrocarbons and heat input from paved surfaces will increase, however, biological oxygen demand, coliform organisms and nutrients will decrease as grazing activities are discontinued. c. Biological Impact The proposed project will not significantly affect the biology or wildlife of the vicinity. Two of the three existing trees will be saved. d. Atmospheric Impact The small increases in vehicular traffic will not appreciably affect the air quality or ambient noise levels. e. Social Impact The proposed development represents a continuation of the existing trend of rapid urbanization which is occurring within the corporate limits of the City of' Tukwila. DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT FOR ADMINISTRATIVE APPROVAL PROCEDURES FOR MAPE INDUSTRIES TUKWILA, KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON PURSUANT TO WASHINGTON STATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT OF 1971 CHAPTER 43.21 c. R.C.W. AND CITY OF TUKWILA ORDINANCE NO. 759 A. THE PROPOSED ACTION 1 Type of Action The City of Tukwila will undertake administrative actions and approval procedures to permit the construction and operation of a proposed garden office complex and restaurant by Mape Industries. All review and permit procedures are prescribed by Tukwila City Ordinances and have been codified within the Tukwila Municipal Code. 2. Location and Description of General Features of the Project Site (Refer to Location Map, Figure A) The development resulting from the proposed action will occur on a project site which lies within the corporate limits of the City of Tukwila. The project site is a five acre parcel bounded by.a bend of the Green River on the south and the west. The State Department of Highways maintains an easement along the west side in the former loca- tion of the Green River bed before it was straightened. When 1 -405 was constructed. On the north side of the project site is a remnant of farmland which is currently being used for grazing of an assortment of domestic animals. West Valley Highway provides access to the east side. Landmarks in the immediate vicinity include Longacres Racetrack, and the Milwaukee Road-U.P. tracks approximately one - quarter mile to the east. Andover. Industrial Park and Southcenter Shopping Center are located across the river to the west. Interstate Highways 5 and 405 intersect nearby. Thus, the general vicinity is used for a variety of industrial and commercial purposes. Development Resulting From the Proposed Action (Figures B and C) The proposed action will result in the development of a five acre site for a suburban "garden" office complex with a restaurant. At least half of the available space within the complex will be oriented south towards the river. The building complex will consist of three, two- story light frame units connected by the second floor. The units composing the complex will be situated so as to preserve the two Big -leaf Maples as an attractive feature of a central courtyard area. The restaurant will be situated both for maximum visibility from the adjacent thoroughfare and to focus on the courtyard space. The available office space within the building complex (in square feet is as follows: First Floor Area Second Floor Area Total Gross Net Leasable 52,139 S.F. 44,463 S.F. 55,408 S.F. 46,462 S.F. 107,547 S.F. 90,925 S.F. Parking will be provided for 360 cars (a ratio of ,4 cars per 1,000 square feet of leasable space). The parking areas will be located along the north and west sides of the proposed complex. Access to the project site will be provided by a main entry point onto West Valley Highway across from South 158th Street. Improvements to West Valley Highway will consist of stacking lanes and probably a traffic signal (.to function when traffic from Longacres is heavy). At the south end of the project site will be a subsidiary exit point. Traffic on the project site will be able to circulate under the second story leading to the northernmost unit of the complex. Runoff water from the project site will drain by gravity into the river, and a bulkhead will be constructed at the point of discharge. The pro- posed buildings will be set back a minimum of 30 feet from the top of the river bank. Upon completion of construction, the site will consist of 72% impervious surfaces and 28% landscaping to the top of the river bank (not including . the slope down). AN OFFICE COMPLEX TUKWILA. WASHINGTON OWNER BUILDER ARCHITECT o BMA • MAPE INDUSTRIES o HOFFMAN CONSTRUCTION CO. o HIGGINS, MCCLARTY & BRAUND ■ WASH. BTATO KWY OUPT. CONDEMNATION LINE GLAD. of N➢dn}'IT' a r•.iRr >ili• 11��1I'111 `1I T 11111111111111 111 BTHACK LING \ORAVBL'FIBB LANE —TOP-OP-BANK _GREEN RIVER B 'IBB TM BT TB' BUYBACK ABPFiALT SITE PLAN INB ANDOVER INICILIGYRIAL PRINK _ MMMMM =SINTER VICINITY MAP STATISTICS GROSS BUILDING A- WAIF E.F. RESTAURANT-RITCNEN: B UILDING SEES. E.F. B UILDING C. EEDTL v. TOTAL. MBA E.F. OFFICE COMPLEX NET LEASEABLE EASR 6.P. KOOS S.F. E3.TR S.F. 33,261111.F. SOME S.F. SITE AREA Ely SF.-477 ACRES (EXCLUDES RIVER OAIm BUILDING COVERAGE: EAR LANDSCAPE COVERAGE' z WALKS AND ZONING: N-T FIRE ZONE: Nat UNIFORM swum= CODE 11170 EDITION O IANCY TYPE. OFFICES CEY 11-3 RESTAURANT mNLBRUCT OR MB. -Al IPRNKLEREDI PARKING PROVIDED: MO GAS FIRE LANE: -.P FARE, NOINYN TURNING R• SS-P • SITE AMENITIES: RIVER VIEW SUM TREES PRESERVED COVERED LOADING AND UNLOADING AREA CENTRAL PEDESTRIAN PLAZA FULL ACCESS FOR NANDIGRED FIRE LANE PROTECTION FOR ALL BUILDINGS ALL BUILDINGS FIRE PROTECTED BY AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM TWO PASSENGER ELEVATORS RESTAURANT FON USE OF TEXANS AND PUBLIC NAINTENA CE FREE BUILDING unman CONVENIENT ACCESS TO PREM.' OWNER: B..-TINE INDUSTRIES PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA WILDER: MAYAN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY PORTLAND. OREGON to Zit 73.28 Given the design and materials, the proposed building complex should provide an aesthetically pleasing and productive environment for employees and visitors. The proposed restaurant will provide a service not otherwise met in the immediate vicinity. 4. Justification for the Proposed Action. The proposed action is in accordance with and .represents the lawful implementation of previously determined City of Tukwila policies as embodied within official plans, ordinances and resolutions. Proposed Method of Financing and Financial Sponsors The proposed action, as a series of administrative actions, will entail no expenditure of public funds outside of those normally required to support city administrative processes. The commercial development of • the project site, occurring as a consequence of the proposed action, will be financed with private capital. 6. Historical Background and Past Planning Decisions a. Land Use The subject area lies within the lower Green River Valley. Farming began in the Nineteenth Century with dairying as the predominant land use in the Valley. Truck farming was also carried on, but high water table, poor drainage and flooding minimized this use. Agricultural use remained dominant until the 1950's when indus- trialization of the Valley lands began. This industrial growth was stimulated by a number of factors, but one of the most important was the proximity of transportation systems which have historically been routed through the Green River Valley.. Geography sets severe constraints on where transportation routes can be built in the Puget Sound Region. Seattle responded to the early predominance of Tacoma as the major railroad terminus on Puget Sound with the building of the Seattle & Spokane Railroad Line, which later became part of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad's main line up through the Duwami°sh, and the lower Green and Maple Valleys. In the late 1800's and early 1900's other rail- roads, i.e., the Northern Pacific and Great Northern, and the Milwaukee and Union Pacific built nearly parallel tracks through the Green River Valley on routes connecting Tacoma and Seattle. These railroads were supplemented by a system of highways constructed in the first quarter of this century. The move toward industrial development in the Valley began when planners for the Port of Seattle suggested an ambitious scheme to turn the Duwamish and Green River Valleys into a large industrial complex complete with a shipping canal to service the area. Local communities countered this proposal by annexing large land areas and imposing their own industrial zoning on the land. This zoning in the valley, plus high increases in residential and commercial development on the adjacent hillsides, and the subse- quent building of the freeway system (again to some extent dictated by geographic and topographic features) all contributed to the existing rush of industrial and commercial development and this trend is not expected to abate for several more years. b. Flood Control Prior to 1900, the Green River, with two tributaries, the White and Black Rivers, flowed northward through, and frequently across, the valley floor. The Black River was the outlet for Lake Wash- ington, Lake Sammamish, and the Cedar River basin. In 1906 the White River changed course during a flood and was thereafter permanently diverted into the Stuck and Puyallup Rivers. Construc- tion of the Lake Washington Ship Canal in 1916 resulted in the lowering of Lake Washington, permitting the Cedar River to be turned north into the lake and shutting off flow through the Black River. With flow through the Green River Valley thus drastically reduced, use of the valley floor for farming became more feasible. Farm owners, individually and by districts, constructed low dikes along the Green River, which, while not effective against major winter floods, did permit the land to be worked earlier in the spring and later in the fall. Drainage District No. 1 serves the area within which the subject site occurs. In 1962, Howard A. Hanson Dam was completed about 30 miles upriver from Auburn. The Eagle Gorge site was the best available for storage and was utilized to its maximum practicable capacity. Major flood flows were reduced to the maximum capacity of the river channel within its existing dikes, less than 12,000 second feet at Auburn. By the way of comparison, a natural flow of 24,000 second -feet occurred in 1933. During the 1960's, the Soil Conservation Service, in conjunction with the Green River Flood Control Zone District (administered by King. County), completed planning for a valley drainage system com- prised of land treatment measures selected to preserve favorable hydrologic conditions on the uplands, and a network of channels and large capacity pumping plants in the valley. During storm periods interior valley drainage will be pumped into the Green River at several locations. The main pumping plant at the mouth' of the Black River, was completed in 1972. In the near future, as the drainage discharge from this and other pumping plants adds to the controlled flood release from Hanson Dam, the existing river channel capacity could be exceeded during extreme flood conditions with simultaneous abnormal valley storm runoff. This was recog- nized in the Soil Conservation Report on the drainage system. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was authorized by Congress to initiate a flood control study of the Green - Duwamish River in 1960. In 1966, with the cooperation of King County, the study was revised to include investigation of the possibility of reducing flows as controlled by Hanson Dam and increasing channel capacity from Auburn to the Duwamish turning basin to accommodate increased flows resulting from the SCS project. Study funding terminated in 1968, but resumed in July, 1970. The Corps has investigated alternative flood control measures and integration of these with enhanced opportunity for recreation. Further action awaits a King County investigation of the potential influence of flood control implementation upon land use patterns in the valley. c. History of Commercial and Industrial Development The City of Tukwila stands at the intersection of the two valley systems described in the previous section, which form natural transportation routes. At the time of incorporation in 1908, Tukwila was a small, thriving trade center astride the main Seattle- Tacoma Highway, but construction 'of alternate routes by- passing Tukwila, the East and West Highways and Route 99, left this town with a declining commercial base. The construction of two interstate freeways has dramatically increased the commercial and industrial development of Tukwila. Also, a large area of bottom land to the south was annexed and brought into the town and is the only large flat area adjacent to the above mentioned freeway intersection suitable for commercial and industrial devel- opment. 7. Relationship with Existing Laws, Policies and Plans a. City Laws City Ordinances prescribe that the following permits be issued and the following review procedures be undertaken with regard to any proposed land development: 1) Permits: a) Shoreline Substantial Management Permit (W.A.C. 173-16) b) Grading Permit (ORD 563; Municipal Code, Chapter 11.24) c) Building Permits (ORD 578, S.1, 1969; ORD 678 (part), 1971). d) Sewer and Water Permits (ORD 264, S.2, 1958; ORD 342, 1961) e) Permits to power, natural gas, and telephone utilities for use of City rights -of -way (ORD 486, S.3 (A), 1967) 2) Reviews: a) Review of State Department of Ecology Flood Zone Permits by Public Works Director b) Review of storm drainage system discharge by Public Works Director c) Review of plans, site plans, elevations, curb cuts, and related work by the City of Tukwila b. Other Laws At the State level (R.C.W. 86.16), flood control zones have been established throughout the State. One such zone governs the Green River flood plain, and development projects within this zone must be issued a flood zone permit by the State Department of Ecology. The King County Department of Public Works, Division of Hydraulics, has traditionally reviewed applications for flood zone permits in King County on behalf of the Department of Ecology. Department of Ecology policy for development within the flood control zone, which is not guided by a Comprehensive Drainage Plan, is to require all buildings to be protected from the 50 year flood. Approval for drainage of storm water from the site . into the Green River has been granted by King County. Also review by the State Department of Highways will be required if alterations to West Valley Highway are necessary. A traffic signal and a stacking lane may be required to facilitate access to the main entry for the proposed complex. c. Policies and Plans The proposed development of the project site as an office complex and restaurant is consistent with local land use policies and plans. The Tukwila Comprehensive Plan notes that Tukwila is part of the Seattle Metropolitan Area, and its growth is predicated on the continued growth and prosperity of this larger region: Tukwila is becoming a major commercial center and is serving a regional market with the construction of several industrial parks and the South Center regional shopping center. The Tukwila Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 1962, provided the initial rationale for development of land along the Green River. At the time of adoption, the Tukwila Comprehensive Plan recommended use of the Green River Valley Flood Plain for industrial purposes. It was noted that while filling is usually necessary to develop these sites, large valuable, flat industrial sites can be created. The stated land use policies of the City of Tukwila are being imple- mented by a number of developments which have occurred in recent years. Development of the Andover Industrial Park, Southcenter Re-. gional Shopping Center Complex across the river from the subject site, is in final stages. Development of two large tracts of land adjacent to the River in the southern portion of the city, is scheduled to be- gin in the near future. The Tukwila Comprehensive Plan is corroborated by the Tukwila Com- prehensive Zoning Ordinance which has designated the project site as part of an M -1 (light industry) zone. This classification also allows for uses permitted in C -1 or C -2 districts (neighborhood retail business and local retail business, respectively). Office buildings and restaurants are permitted within C -1 zoning districts. The proposed development of the project site is also consistent with current regional plans. The Puget Sound Governmental Con- ference has confirmed that the site is designated as industrial on the Interim Regional Development Plan (IRDP) adopted in 1971. 8. Public Participation Incorporation within the administrative procedures which comprise the proposed action are a number of public hearing requirements. The proposed action implements adopted City Policies as embodied primar- ily in Council Resolutions, the Comprehensive Plan, the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance and other provisions of the Municipal Code. Each of these has been subjected to public review during the normal course of adoption. Since the proposed development is adjacent to the Green River, a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit must be obtained. The appli- cation for the Shoreline Permit must be preceded by a public hearing. Formulation of the City Master Program for Shorelines has included ac- tive public'participation as specified by the State Shoreline Manage - ment Act of 1971. Public participation has been an important part of the decision making and policy adoption by other agencies having jurisdiction for planning and implementation of policies influencing development in the Green River Valley. As an example, the Corps of Engineers had conducted a series of public hearings in conjunction with their investigations of alternative flood control measures of the Green - Duwamish River des- cribed above. The Puget Sound Governmental Conference, the regional planning agency, has invited citizen input in the formulation of the Interim Regional Development Plan. Actions Remaining for Implementation The actions remaining for implementation of the proposed development . are the administrative reviews previously described. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS 1. .Natural Setting a. General Characteristics The subject site is a five acre parcel of farmland which is cur- rentlybeing used for grazing of sheep and other domestic live- stock. The subject site has been extensively altered from its natural condition by prior human activities, as have all the areas contiguous with the site. The subject site is located in Section 24, Township 23 North, Range 4 West W.M. (Willamette Meridian). Its northern boundary is located approximately 400 feet north of the section line di- viding Sections 24. and 25. b. Topography The subject site is situated inside a meander loop on the mature flood plain of the Green River which is topographically expressed as a broad flat - floored valley delimited by the Tukwila and River- ton Heights, Uplands on the north and west and the Renton High - lands on the east. Regional relief is 400. to 600 feet. Man has altered the natural flood plain conditions of the Green River Valley in several ways;, first, by altering the course of its two major rivers, the White and Black; then by building low dikes and drainage ditches to promote farming. These actions were fol- lowed by the control of river flows by building higher levees and the construction of Howard Hanson Dam 30 miles east of Auburn. Ultimately, by filling much of the valley floor within Tukwila for industrial and other urban land uses, much of the natural flood plain in this vicinity has all but disappeared. The Green River, which flows past the subject site, has been con- tained by man -made levees paralleling the river along the site boundary, Elsewhere, the site is fairly level. B. EXISTING CONDITIONS 1. Natural Setting a. General Characteristics The subject site is a five acre parcel of farmland which is cur- rently being used for grazing of sheep and other domestic live- stock. The subject site has been extensively altered from its natural condition by prior human activities, as have all the areas contiguous with the 'site. The subject site is located in Section 24, Township 23 North, Range 4 West W.M. ,(Willamette Meridian). Its northern boundary is located approximately 400 feet north of the section line di- viding Sections 24`.and 25. b. Topography The subject site is situated inside a meander loop on the mature flood plain of the Green River which is topographically expressed as a broad flat - floored valley delimited by the Tukwila and River- ton Heights Uplands on the north and west and the Renton High - lands on the east. Regional relief is 400 to 600 feet. Man has altered the natural flood plain conditions of the Green River Valley in several ways; first, by altering the course of its two major rivers, the White and Black; then by building low dikes and drainage ditches to promote farming. These actions were fol- lowed by the control of river flows by building higher levees and the construction of Howard Hanson Dam 30 miles east of Auburn. Ultimately, by filling much of the valley floor. within Tukwila for industrial and other urban land uses, much of the natural flood plain in this vicinity has all but disappeared. The Green River, which flows past the subject site, has been con- tained by man -made levees paralleling the river along the site boundary, Elsewhere, the' site is fairly level. At the western most' portion of the site, the river flows around a sharp bend and at this-point a large sand bar has formed. This, sand bar has been supplemented by material which has slipped down from the man -made levee above. c. Geology (1) Geologic History During a portion of pre - glacial time, the Puget Sound lowland was a subsiding basin along a broad coastal plain that ex- tended eastward and covered part of the area now occupied by the Cascade Mountains. After a period of marine sediment deposition the seas retreated and continental rocks were deposited. Initially volcanic rocks were abundant; however, as volcanic activity subsided, a broad plain similar to modern deltas developed. Peat, which later became the coal that has been mined in the lowland, was formed adjacent to rivers on this plain. After at least two periods of uplift and erosion, glacial sediments began to be deposited during the Pleisto- cene Age. At least four great ice sheets advanced over North America during the Pleistocene Age. The Puget Lobe of these ice masses advanced to just south of Olympia. During the last glaciation ( Vashon) approximately 3,500 feet of ice covered the subject site, and obscured much of the rock record of older glacial events. Glacial erosion deepened pre- existing river valley and pro- duced the Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish basins. Puget Sound near the subject site was deepened to as much as 1,000 feet below the present sea level. Where the ground was not markedly excavated by the overriding ice, it was shaped. With- in the Puget Lowland, many of the elongate hills own their form to glacial shaping. As the Vashon Glacier retreated north, ice - marginal and north - flowing rivers were dammed creating ice - dammed lakes. Post- glacial lacustrine sediment were deposited in the Green River Valley during this period. Eventually, as the ice continued to abate or melt, and re- treat northward, the Strait of Juan de Fuca became ice-free and the ocean invaded the lower Green River Valley. In the 10,000 to 15,000 years since the glacial activity within the Green River Valley, this embayment has slowly filled with alluvium deposited by the flood waters of the White, Cedar, Black, and Green Rivers. At first, the Green and Cedar Rivers built large fans into the embayment, which remained until about 5000 years ago. At this time, the Osceola mudflow came down the White River Val- ley from Mount Rainier, forcing. the White River to flow into the Green River Valley 'rather than into the South Prairie Creek and Puyallup River Valleys. Until 1906, when its entire flow was diverted south into the Puyallup River Valley during a flood, the White River was the predominant source of the sediments which were deposited as a large alluvial fan in the Green River Valley, covering the older deposits and filling the valley to nearly its present level. As the profile of the valley stabilized and the White River began to meander back and forth across the valley floor, normal flood plain deposits were laid down as a thin but persistent blanket over the fan deposits. The Black and Cedar Rivers, which had flowed into the White and Duwamish Rivers near the subject site, were diverted into Lake Washington in 1917 when the lake level was lowered as a consequence -of the Lake Washington Ship Canal project. Since this time, only a thin layer of alluvium has been deposited in the lower Green River Valley floodplain by the Green River. Nearly all of the alluvial material underlying the subject site can be assumed to be White River alluvium, overlain by a variable thickness of White -Green River flood plain deposits. White River alluvium varies in depth throughout the Green River Valley, often exceeding six hundred feet in thickness. Approximately one hundred feet of alluvium underlies the sub- ject site, below which dense weathered basalt bedrock occurs. Borings of subsurface conditions indicate that the near -sur- face alluvial material in the upper 25 to 30 feet of the alluvial deposits is comprised of very loose to loose sand or silt. Between about 30 and 60 feet the sands are general- ly loose to medium dense and contain lenses or layers of clay and /or silt. A stratum of compressible silt was found at a depth of between 58. and 92 feet in the deepest boring drilled during the investigation of the site's subsurface conditions. (2) Environmental Geology (i) Siesmic Characteristics The foundation stability of the alluvial deposits beneath the subject site, as well as the adjacent industrial areas and the Southcenter regional shopping center, is often quite poor. For example, the very loose, fine sandy soils encountered in the upper 20 feet of the alluvium have a combination of grain size distribution and relative density which makes them sus- ceptible to liquefaction during earthquakes. The phenomenon referred to as "liquefaction" occurs when cyclic loads, as produced by earthquakes, are applied to relatively loose deposits of fine sands below the water table. A partial or complete loss of the supporting capacity of the alluvium often results. If all strength is lost, at least temporarily, water flows upward to the surface creating sand boils, tanks become buoyant and may float to the surface, and structures supported above or within the deposit undergo significant settlements and possible tilting. Some studies indicate that the surficial formations of the Puget Sound Lowlands all respond equally poorly to earthquakes. For example, other reports suggest that certain units such the White River alluvium have a much poorer response than the material underlying the glacial drift plains. In the United State exclusive of Alaska, only portions of California, Western Neveda, and Southwestern Montana have experienced as many earthquakes as the Puget Sound Lowland during the past fifty years. Estimated recurrence intervals for an earthquake of a given magnitude in this area as follows: Richter Magnitude Recurrence Intervals (years) 3.5 - 4.0 0.25 - 0.5 4.1 - 4.5 0.5 - 2 4.6 - 5.0 2 5 5.1 - 5.5 5 - 10 5.6 - 6.0 10 - 30 6.1 - 6.5 30, - 60 6.6 - 7.0 60 - 150 7.1 + 150+ Approximately eight miles to the southwest of the subject site lies a major inferred fault and the epicenter of the violent 1965 Seattle earthquake. The potential for the occurrence of a major earthquake within or adjacent to the Green River area certainly exists. Dam rupture resulting from a strong motion earthquake presents an additional hazard for those living down - valley within the Green River flood plain. (ii) Groundwater Groundwater was encountered at depths ranging from 19 to 20.5 feet below the ground surface in the recent borings drilled at the subject site. Because of the proximity of the Green River to the borings, and the pervious nature of the near - surface alluvial material, it can be anticipated that the groundwater level will correspond very closely to the river level. Additional evidence, including the soil characteris- tics and the vegetative assemblage of the subject site, in- dicates that the seasonal high water table probably reaches surface or near surface levels in winter. Groundwater resources contained within the alluvial deposits of the Green River Valley are utilized as a source of many private and municipal water supply systems. Depending upon the coarseness of the sands and gravels penetrated, very large quantities of water may be produced. The alluvial deposits which underlie the subject site generally yield less than 50 gallons per minute (gpm), due to the fine - grained allu- vium which dominates the underlying deposits. The allu- vial aquifers alone beneath the subject site cannot be considered significant. However, groundwater does perco- late through the subject site to areas that are part of the Cedar River fan which serves an important aquifer func- tion. (3) Environmental Geology - Soils The soil found at the subject site has developed from the silt and sand flood plain deposits of the White, Cedar, Black, and Green Rivers. According to the most recent U.S.D. Soil Con- servation Service (SCS) soil survey of King County, surface soil of the subject site is composed of Newberg silt loam. Newberg silt loam is a coarse well- drained alluvial soil dis- tinguished by surface layers of very dark grayish -brown silt loam and very fine sandy loam. This twenty -inch thick layer is underlain by deep layers of stratified very fine sandy loam, loamy very fine sand, loamy sand, and silt loam. Newberg soils are typically found behind natural levees bordering major streams. In the Green River watershed, Newberg soils generally comprise the portion of the flood plain nearest to the river. The physical properties which characterize Newberg soils are described in Table 1. Due to their level topography, loamy texture, good tilth, and deep profiles with high water - holding capacities, Newberg soils are excellent agricultural soils. The U.S. Department. of Surface Soil Texture sandy loam, fine sandy loam silt loam, loam, loamy fine sand, or very fine sandy loam Table 1 - PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF THE SUBJECT SITE'S SOIL Intake Rate Subsoil Texture Subsoil Permea- Substrata Texture Substrata Permea- (in./hr.) bility (in. /hr.) bility (in. /hr.) 0.2 0.75 loose fine sandy loam or very fine sandy loam 0.8.- 2.5 loose fine sandy 5 - 10 loam or fine sand Water Holding pH Hydrologic Seasonal Erosion Overall Available Water Effective Capacity Group High Water Hazard Permeability. Capacity in./in. Rooting (inches) Table (in. /hr.) Depth 5 - 8 (high) 5.6 - 7.3 B 3' - 4' slight 0.63 - 2.0 (moderate) 0.16 - 0.18 over 60" Hydrologic Group 'B' soils are deep sandy soils with above average infiltration rates after thorough wetting. Consequently, the runoff potential is moderately low. Agriculture has classified Newberg soils as Class II soils. Class II soils are primary agricultural soils with few limita- tions or hazards reducing the choice of plants or requiring moderate conservation practices for sustained production of commonly cultivated crops. The SCS notes that "Newberg soils are one of the soils best suited for such use in King County." Primary agricultural soils constitute a finite re- gional, resource. Within the portion of King County outside of national forest lands, only 13,830 acres of soil are classi- fied as inherently suitable for sustained agricultural pro- duction as Newberg soils. Only eleven percent of the 445,000 acres of King County (exclusive of national forests are com- posed of primary agricultural soils. The primary conservation management problems associated with Newberg soils is overbank flow flooding and the maintenance of soil productivity. The soil-is well suited for growing hay, grasses, legumes, alfalfa, pole beans, row crops, sweet corn, strawberries, small grains and cane berries. High yields can be maintained under an intensive management program des- cribed by the SCS. Newberg soils do not require drainage, for the seasonal high water table drops below the rooting depth during the growing season. In fact, subsoil moisture is found only at considerable depth in summer. Crops 'respond well to supplemental irrigation during summer dry periods. Soils are best suited for most urban purposes when they pro- vide good drainage, are free from floodwater hazard, provide firm foundations for typical urban structures, and have low shrink -swell properties. Freely draining soils with low corrosivity are generally desirable. Poorly adapted soils can usually be made acceptable by engineering design. All Class 11 alluvial soils in the King County area typically have properties not highly suitable for urban use. Studies by the Puget Sound Governmental Conference's Environmental Planning Division, as part of the Land Use Allocation Study of the Municipality of Metropolitan Seattle's River Basins Coordi- nating Committee, found that regardless of the criteria utilized in determining the suitability of soils for urban development (i.e., ecological factors, construction costs, natural hazards, etc.), Newberg soils consistently present severe limitations. The suitabilities of Newberg soils for various non -farm uses, as determined by the Soil Conservation Service, are displayed by Table 3, as well as the engineering properties inherent to Newberg soil. The soils of the subject site, due to their permeable loose nature, serve as an aquifer recharge medium, replenishing the underground water bearing strata. d. Hydrologic Conditions (1) Drainage, Flooding, and Ponding The construction of the Howard A. Hanson Dam, about 30 miles upstream of Auburn, has reduced major Green River flood flows to the maximum capacity of the river channel within its existing dikes. The average discharge of the Green River at the subject site is approximately 1,500 cubic feet per second Typical maximum flood flows now reach 9,000 to 12,000 cubic feet per second at the site, raising the Green River's water level to between 21 and 25 feet above mean sea level. The height of the levee surrounding the site on the south and west is adequate for flood protection purposes; however, that portion near the northwest corner of the site within the State Highway Department property is not adequate. Whereas, the levee along the south side of the subject site ranges in height from 24.5 to 26.8 feet, the levee at the western edge of the property drops an elevation of 23.5 feet within the state land. The central portion of the site ranges in elevation from approximately 23.4 to 24.3 feet above mean sea level. King County Flood Control District requirements necessitate raising the finished first floor level of the proposed structures to a minimum of 27.8 feet. Internal drainage of the subject site is preently restricted only during the winter months, at which time the seasonal water table is often at or near the ground surface. Depending on the physical characteristics of the soils and underlying strata and the condition of the water table in the general region, the water table at the subject site could be higher than the water level of the river. Even though the Howard Hanson Dam has minimized the threat of excessive flooding, large portions of the Green River flood plain, most likely including the subject site, continue to be plagued by flooding and the ponding of surface water, particularly during the wetter portion of the year. The levees, such as those surrounding the site, act as barriers to surface water flow, which cannot infiltrate during the saturated soil conditions. During the 1960's, the U. S. Soil Conservation Service (SCS), in conjunction with the Green River Flood Control Zone District (administered by King County), completed planning for a valley drainage system comprised of a network of channels and large capacity pumping plants in the valley. During storm periods interior valley drainage will'be pumped into the Green River at several locations. As urbanization continues in the Green River Valley area, increasing the amounts of storm water flow and surface runoff and the duration of ponding problems, the drainage discharged by the pumping plants added to the controlled flood flows released by Hanson Dam, may create conditions which could, in the future, exceed the existing river channel's capacity. The surface water that presently runs off the subject site either collects in the oxbow pond to the north of the site or flows directly into the Green River where the levee has crumbled in the location of the sand bar. - Table 3 - SUITABILITY OF SOILS FOR NON -FARM USES Susceptibility To Frost Action Slight Shearing Strength Load Carrying Capacity Shrink -Swell Potential Resistance To Sheet Erosion Establishment Of Vegetation Low to moderate; Moderate to Low to Low Fairly easy low to very low high, except moderate in subsoil and when dry or substrata saturated Corrosive Effect Stability On Compacted Suitability As A Source Of: As Uncoated Concrete Permeability Topsoil Sand Gravel Roadfill Levees Steel Semipervious Fair Fair Not Good Low Low to Moderate to impervious Suitable moderate to low LIMITATIONS FOR: Suitability For Forestry Septic Passive Average Foundations Tank Use Annual For Low Shallow Filter Areas Estimated Growth Buildings Excavations Fields (Picnic Areas, etc.) Site Index Per Acre Severe Moderate Severe Moderate to slight 165 -174 * 170 -180 ft.2 * or 660 -770 board feet * * Highest potential timber production (Douglas Fir) of all of the 1,000 soil types of the Puget Sound region (approximate cubic feet per acre of annual timber production). (2) Water Quality Since the surface runoff from the project site currently flows into the Green River, which forms the west and south boundaries of the subject site, the water quality parameters of the Green River are critical to the development resulting from the proposed action. The Green River undergoes its most critical biological, physical and chemical stress in summer months. This is due in part to farming and grazing activities in the river valley bottom combined with high temperatures and low river flows (often less than 300 cubic feet per second adjacent to the site). To gain a dynamic perspective of the Green River, water quality data was obtained from several sampling stations, both upstream and downstream of the project site during three representative months during the last year (Tables 4, 5, 6). This data was obtained from Municipality of Metropolitan Seattle water quality monthly reports. The stations providing this data are located at various locations ranging through the Green - Duwamish river system from Station 315 at Kent, downstream to Station 301 at the base of Elliot Bay. This data gives a broad perspective of river water quality and reflects changes in water quality resulting from development adjacent to the river. Thus, the significance of future activities within the project site can be evaluated in terms of the total context of human activities affecting the river. In addition, more specific data is in- cluded in Appendix A for one month during summer 1972 (Tables 1, 2, 3, 4) for two monitoring stations. One is up- stream at the Renton Junction Bridge. These monitor the most complete spectrum of water quality parameters within the vicinity of the project site. Temperature in Class A waters as established by the Depart- ment of Ecology should not exceed 21 °C. The stretch of the Green River between the Kent 212th Street Bridge and the Ren- ton Junction Bridge, which flows by the project site, was found to have an upper limit of 20 °C, minimum temperature of 13.5-14 °C and an average temperature of 17.5°C. The rela- tive stability of this water mass is reflected in the small standard deviation values of 1.2 and 1.4 °C. However, a tem- perature increase of 0.8 °C is recorded between these two sam- ple stations and this means that the river is near its ther- mal capacity. Temperatures for the, river from Kent to the Renton Sewage Treatment Plant are lower than those which would indicate thermal pollution levels. The river responds to the input of warmer water from the Renton Sewage Treat- ment plant as seen by data at several stations downstream. For example, at Station 3077 a small increase occurs as a result of the Rainier Vista Treatment Plant's effluent. The average dissolved oxygen values exceed the Class A standards at both the Kent 212th Street Bridge upstream and the Renton Junction Bridge downstream. Of these two stations, the upstream value for dissolved oxygen was -0.66 mg /1 higher, of which 0.2 mg /1 might be accounted for in the solubility differential due to .the temperature range involved. This still leaves an average depression of 0.4 mg /1, resulting as water passes through this reach of the river. This is reasonable evidence to support the premise that this reach of river is loaded slightly beyond its natural biological oxygen demand (BOD) tolerance. While the BOD (listed as variable #7) in Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, does not seem unreasonably high (1.92 and 2.3 mg /1), the standard deviation near the equiva- lent of 1/2 the average values suggest a problem may exist. The Kjeldal (total) nitrogen, ammonium - nitrogen and nitrogen levels are all relatively low, as are the total phosphate, hydrolizable phosphate and the biologically available ortho- phosphate. This would indicate that the river system in the vicinity of the subject site is not presently receiving unusually high nutrient loading and might tolerate additional loading. The plots in Appendix A, Figures 1 and 2 for the Renton Junction Bridge and for the Kent 212th Street Bridge respec- tively, show the blue -green nuisance algae are not the pre- dominate species during summer months, but their substantial numbers indicate that this part of the river has adequate nutrients and water conditions to readily become a problem area; any standing pond with similar water composition would, in time, emit an odor and take on an unpleasant appearance from the natural die -off of these algae. The chlorophyll a levels (variable 22 in Appendix A, Table 3 and 4) of 5.0 and 4.3 mg /m3 are relatively high for a river system, indicating that the river is both biologically viable and sufficiently enriched. Substantial nutrient levels exist in the river as shown in Tables 4, 5, and 6. The concentrations of the nutrients at least double as a result of the inputs from the Renton Plant downstream of the subject site. The highest levels are seen to be in the fall and winter. However, when light conditions are minimal, a severe algal bloom probably cannot be sustained. The tendency for problems to be caused by these nutrients most likely depends on the rate of flow of the river. Soluble trace metal concentrations for copper and lead (Table 7) are fractions of a part per billion in the estuary water. These data were obtained from the trace metal laboratory, University of Washington, Department of Oceanography. The fate of metals borne by the river is their transferral to the sediments. The concentrations of lead and zinc at the surface of the cores and one meter deep in the cores are extremely high and demon- strate how effectively the transfer proceeds. The cores were obtained in June, 1973, and were analyzed by the Region X Environmental Protection Agency laboratory. Since nearshore ocean sediments contain an average of 60,000 ppb lead and 150,000 ppb zinc, it appears that the Duwamish estuary sediments Table 4 July 1972 Green River Water Quality: Kent to Elliot Bay Median Coliform Count /100 ml Fecal Metro present last last count Ammonia Nitrate Phosphate Temp Depth Station month month year per 100 ml mg /1 mg /1 mg /1 deg. C meters 301 430 870 300 54 16.0 0 10.8 5 306 2300 2900 14,000 440 .47 .47 .35 15.1 1 .09 .31 .25 14.1 6 307 3400 2300 2600 330 .14 .45 .18 15.9 1 .15 .41 .30 15.9 6 3077 20 30 20 10.95 .56 6.35 15.9 1 308 980 1100 190. .18 .41 .28 14.3 1 309 500 1100 810 170 .09 .43 .32 14.5 1 351 20 80 980 20 .50 6.30 9.20 17.9 1 311 870. 740 270 230 .06 .27 .11 10.3 1 312 530 510 120 .06 .23 .11 13.1 1 313 470 410 95 .06 .21 .09 13.1 1 315 640 440 450 220 .06 .21 .08 13.1 1 Table 5 October 1972 Green River Water Quality: Kent to Elliot Bay Median Conform Count /100 ml Fecal Metro present last last count Station month month year per 100 ml Ammonia mg /1 Nitrate Phosphate Temp Depth mg /1 mg /1 deg. C meters 301 390 1500 1200 55 10.9 1 306 2500 6600 3700 530 .35 .43 .33 11.0 1 .06 .35 .18 10.7 6 307 5800 6300 2600 510 .28 .41 .30 11.1 1 3077 .30 .37 .15 10.5 6 16.75 1.10 8.00 13.2 1 308 5500 .6300 2500 520 .45 .52 .43 11.3 1 309 4200 6600 1200 220 .66 .54 .53 10.7 1 351 1300 980 190 39 11.00 4.80 6.00 17.6 1 311 1500 2800 2600 82 .10 .34 .13 10.0 1 312 2400 790 110 .10 . .32 .12 10.0 1 313 1400 800 73 .09 .33 .11 9.6 1 315 1500 720 140 .09 .28 .09 9.5 1 �■ Table 6 February 1973 Green River Water Quality: Kent to Elliot Bay Median •Coliform Count /100 ml Fecal Metro present last last count Ammonia Nitrate Phosphate Temp Depth Station month month year per 100 ml mg /1 mg /1 mg /1 deg. C hers 301 400 500 430 54 7.5 1 7.4 5 306 620 1600 1900 130 .22 .50 .26 6.0 1 .29 .58 .31 5.5 6 307 320 1800 1200 49 .17 .50 .28 5.9 1 3077 63 360 39 19.10 .15 9.20 8.0 1 308 940 470 1500 170 .38 .57 .28 6.6 1 309 530 3000 720 84 .34 .55 .21 6.4 1 351 840 50 46 20._ 4.87 3.20 4.80 14.0 1 311 80 180 1200 20 .27 .54 .24 6.2 1 312 53. 150 23 .12 .33 .10 6.1 1 313 53 140 20 .13 .33 .10 6.1 1 315 150 150 810 39 .12 .35 .17 6.4 1 Soluble metals Date 9/13/72 6/1/71 9/13/72 6/1/72 Table 7 Metals concentrations in Duwamish Estuary (ppb) Location Depth (meters) Cu Pb West Waterway 0 0.15 0.16 15 0.15 0.40 West Waterway 8 0..4 17 0.4 East Waterway 0 .0.4 0.44 15 0.07. 0.13 East Waterway 3 0.4 8 1.9 13 0.5 Sediments (Total acid soluble) Core # 12 11 10 16 Depth Location, (meters) Pb Zn Duwamish Mouth 0 71,000 130,000 Duwamish'Mouth 0 194,000 25,000 -1 152,000 20,000 Duwamish Mouth 0 195,000 400,000 -1 18,000 69,000 East Waterway 0 346,000 600,000 -1 61,000 140,000 have been greatly enriched by inputs from the river and from industrial sites around the estuary. Therefore, any contami -, nation from the proposed site (such as auto exhaust borne lead), introduced into the river, would be transferred down- stream to the surface sediments and would comprise an undetectable increase in the already heavily loaded sediments. Copper and lead concentrations do not appear to be at levels which are of biological concern at this time. Total and fecal coliform values at the Kent and Renton sampling sites (Appendix A, Tables 3 and 4, variables 21 and 22) did not meet Class A or even Class C water requirements. In fact, , median coliform counts normally exceed established standards up river from Tukwila. In the Kent area, normally high coliform counts have occurred for a number of years, though, since the interception of the Kent and Tukwila treatment plants by Metro, the bacteriological quality of the lower Green River has been substantially improved. Prior to the Metro interception, MPN values ranged from 230 to over 240,000. Occasionally, however, MPN values are still abnormally high in the lower Green River. These abnormally large values are due to isolated discharges into the river above Kent (including the Auburn Packing Plant) and the influence of livestock and human activities throughout the Green River watershed. The exact source or sources of this contamination are unknown. In October and.November, 1972, Metro conducted a special survey of the Green and Duwamish to ascertain these sources. The results of this investigation showed that the major coliform source was runoff from manure sprayfields located along the Green River and the Auburn Packing Plant. e. Biologic Conditions (1) Botany The subject site is composed of a ruderal, or agricultural, plant community, consisting of introduced Eurasian herbs and native "weeds" and grass. The original plant community, which probably consisted of a mixed Western Red - Cedar, Douglas -Fir, and Big -leaf Maple forest has been totally dis- rupted by prior human development. Most of the herbaceous - species were introduced because of their suitability for grazing purposes. The trees on the subject site include two 60 to 80 foot Big - leaf Maples and one 120 foot Black Cottonwood. All of the large trees on the site are at least fifty years old. The cottonwood is in poor condition as evidenced by the dead "snag" top, brittle cracked limbs, and patchy foliage. The cottonwood would probably die within the next ten to twenty years under natural conditions. The cottonwood presently represents a hazard to structures and individuals beneath, as evidenced by the large fallen branches observed lying to the northeast of the tree. Some of these brittle branches are over,twelve feet long and one foot in diameter. During future winter storms and periods of strong southwest winds, large branches and limbs can be expected to continue to break off and fall to the ground below. The Big -leaf Maples (which will be saved) are beginning to develop snag -like tops, although this condition can be remedied by a tree surgeon. The portions of the site presently utilized for grazing are dominated by bluegrass and fescue, with clover, buttercup, plantain, and other weeds subdominant. Only those plants inedible to sheep or able to withstand heavy grazing pressure have been able to reach maturity, such as the various thistles, barley, mullein, and sourdock scattered throughout the site. In the shaded moist areas under the three large trees, stinging nettle thrives. One large Red Elderberry exists beneath the maple nearest the river. The levee along the southern boundary of the site is covered by a mix of cottonwood saplings, Oregon Ash, Pacific Willow, and Himalayan Blackberry. Bluegrass, fescue, plaintain, chamomile, thistles, and common tansy thistles, and common tansy form the herbaceous ground cover in an area of sand - dune like ground at the western edge of the property. Mullein, Sourdock, small Himalayan Blackberry, and various small wildflowers form the sparse vegetation. At the north- east corner of the subject site, Japanese Knotweed has invaded from the residence bordering the site along its northern border. A complete list of the dominant plant species found within the subject site is presented in Table 8. The plant communities tomprise the subject site are depicted in Figure D. Common Name TABLE 8 PLANT SPECIES FOUND ON THE. SUBJECT SITE Scientific Name # Black Cottonwood Big -leaf. Maple # Oregon Ash # Pacific Willow Japanese Knotweed Himalayan Blackberry Red Elderberry Stinging Nettle Sourdock Buttercup var. Clover var. Foxglove Common Mullein English Plantain Mayweed Chamomile Canada Thistle Common Thistle Hairy Cats-ear Wild Lettuce Sow Thistle Common Tansy Common Dandelion Fescue -grass var. Foxtail Barley Bluegrass var. TREES Populus trichocarpa Acer macrophyllum 'raxinus latifolia SHRUBS Salix lasiandra Polygonum cuspidatum Rubus discolor Sambucus racemosa HERBACEOUS PLANTS Urtica lyallii Rumex crispus Ranunculus sp. Trifolium spp. Digitalis purpurea Verbascum thapsus Plantago lanceolata Anthemis cotula Cirsium arvense Cirsium vulgare Hypochaeris radicata Lactuca sp. Sonchus sp. Tanacetum vulgare Taraxacum officinale Festuca sp. Hordeum murinum Poa sp. Introduced species # Species indicating seasonal standing water or very high water table conditions. vCfL 4 front E4r(y e-ouiessioxit! Sapla y ,onal Ma tyres ve rfza , cirsiunl , ruw1ex , vers cmi Co- dominant ta. Va rig `auuess,onal jai Luau% Sue.zssioral "shrub" V-a./e 4aRe ;Rims discolor dorm. . (2) Zoology (i) Terrestrial Wildlife Prior to settlement, the Green River Valley consisted of open freshwater, freshwater marshes, meadows, deci- duous and coniferous forest habitats. Due to the availability of these habitats, the flood plain of the Green River was a haven for a great variety of wildlife throughout the entire year. Most of the wetlands of the valley were eliminated by drainage projects associated first with farming activities and later with industrial developments. The open fields and agricultural areas provided a wintering ground for many northern migrant birds, as well as a resting place for other south bound migratory birds. The habitats associated with the plant communities of the subject site are shown in Figure D. The vast maj- ority of the site consists of rudereal (agricultural) habitats. Due to heavy grazing, the herbaceous veg- etation on the subject site does not provide much sup- port for animal wildlife. Wildlife within the subject area was observed primarily in the early successional habitats formed by brush found along the river levee and the arboreal habitats provided by the three trees. For example, at least six active nests were observed in the cottonwood and none were observed in the maples. Migratory waterfowl were observed in the fresh water and shore habitats provided by the Green River bordering the subject site and by an oxbow pond north of the subject site. Table 9 lists the wildlife observed with- in the subject site during the inventory. Table 10 (A) and (B) give detailed field observations. The low numbers of bird species observed within the sub- ject site was due to a number of factors in addition to the intensive grazing. TABLE 9 TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE KNOWN TO OCCUR ON THE SUBJECT SITE Common Name Great Blue Heron Green Heron Mallard Red - tailed Hawk Killdeer Western Sandpiper Glaucous-winged Gull Rock Dove Mourning Dove Unknown Owl Red- shafted Flicker Scientific Name Ardea herodias Butorides•vi•rescens Arias'platyrhynchos Buteo jamaicensis Charadrius vociferus Ereunetes mauri Larus glaucescens Columba Livia Zenaidura macroura Colaptes cafer Number seen Location or'abundance 2 30+ 3 8 3 3 5 1 1 3 Violet -green Swallow. Tachycineta thalassina Fairly Common Common Common 7 2 Abundant Barn Swallow Riparia riparia Common Crow Corvus brachyrhynchos Black- capped Chickadee Parus atricapillus Robin Turdus migratorius Starling Sturnus vulgaris Western Tanager American Goldfinch Song Sparrow Unknown Sparrow MAMMALS Townsend's Mole Eastern Cottontail Rabbit Unknown Mice Raccoon OTHER Piranga ludoviciana Spinus fristis Melospiza melodia Scapanus townsendi Sylvilagus floridanus Procyon lotor Garter Snake Thamnophis'sp. 1 Common 6 3 Common 2 Common. 2 2 (1 dead) Green River Shore Green River Shore Green River Shore and overhead Cottonwood Snag and overhead Green River Shore Green River Shore Green River Shore Cottonwood Snag and overhead Riparian Sapling Area Cottonwood Snag Big -leaf Maples and Brushy Areas Throughout Site Throughout Site Throughout Site Trees and Brushy Areas Cottonwood Snag Cottonwood Snag and Maples and Pastures Cottonwood Snag Brushy Areas Brushy Areas Maples and Brushy Areas Pastures Brush near Cotton- wood Snag and Riparian Area Throughout Site Green River Shore Pastures TABLE 10 A FIELD OBSERVATIONS Date: 10 September 1973 Time: 8 :45 - 10:00 AM (1 1/4 hours)' Conditions: 75 °F,'Clear, Hot, Light breezes Area Surveyed: 15 + Acres BIRDS Sightings Species 4+ Green Heron 10 Mallard 8 California Quail 9 Killdeer 3 Western Sandpiper 2 Rock Dove 1 Belted Kingfisher 2 Unknown Flycatchers 8 Barn Swallow 16+ Common Crow 5 Black- capped Chickadee 2 . Robin 33+ Starling 6 House Sparrow 22+ American Goldfinch 22+ Song Sparrow 1 2 MAMMALS Eastern Cottontail Rabbit Raccoon Evidence of numerous mice and moles TABLE-10 B FIELD OBSERVATIONS Date: 15 September 1973 Time: 12:30 - 5:30 PM (5 hours) Conditions: 75 °F, Clear, Warm, Light breezes Area Surveyed: Subject site, 5 + acres BIRDS 1 Great Blue Heron 2 Green Heron 29 Mallard 3 Red - tailed Hawk 2 Killdeer 1 Western Sandpiper 3 Glaucous- winged Gull 3 Rock Dove 1 Mourning Dove 1 Unknown Owl 3 Red - shafted Flicker 4 .Violet -green Swallow 8 Barn Swallow 13 Common Crow 5 Black- capped Chickadee 300+ Starling 1 Western Tanager 31 American Goldfinch 6 Song Sparrow 3 Unknown Sparrow. OTHER 1 Eastern Cottontail Rabbit 2 Garter Snake (1 dead) First, the field inventories were conducted in late summer when the resident bird population is at a seasonal low. Summer residents have finished breed- ing for the year and are forming flocks in which they will winter, either in other local habitats (there were many Brewer's Blackbird and Redwing Blackbird flocks attracted to the grain around Longacres racetrack) or in habitats further south. Also, bird species which pass - through.Washington on the way to their southern wintering grounds are just beginning to arrive in the area, and the resident winter species have not yet arrived. As far as species counts are concerned, the subject site probably has its greatest bird diversity in early spring or very late fall. Another factor causing the low bird species count is that the subject site is situated in the middle of semi - rural land which is rapidly becoming industrialized. Persistent air, auto, and occasional rail traffic occurs in the vicinity of the subject site. Thus, the site is immersed in a constant artificial din (see noise section of this report.) At least one bird species, the Western Tanager, typically found in forested mountain areas, is uncommon to this location. Based on work completed at the University of Washington, College of Forest Resources and the Department of Zoology, it is possible to project additional species of birds which might be observed within the subject site, based on the existing habitat conditions. If an extended survey were conducted, the bird species presented in Table II are likely to observed. Other terrestrial wildlife includes small mammals (East- ern Cottontail Rabbits and mice) observed in the brushy early successional areas along the river levee. In ad- dition, evidence of moles was observed in the pasture areas. The mammal species which would be expected to be TABLE 11 OTHER BIRDS LIKELY TO BE OBSERVED AT THE SUBJECT SITE Common Name Eared Grebe Western Grebe Pied- billed Grebe American Bittern Canada Goose Gadwell Pintail Green - winged Teal Blue - winged Teal American Widgeon Shoveler Barrow's Goldeneye Bufflehead Common Merganser Rough- legged Hawk Marsh Hawk Sparrow Hawk California Quail Ring- necked Pheasant Virginia Rail American Coot Common Snipe Spotted Sandpiper Least Sandpiper Semipalmated Sandpiper Herring Gull California Gull Ring - billed Gull Mew Gull Barn Owl Screech Owl Short-eared Owl Common Nighthawk Belted Kingfisher Traill's Flycatcher Western Flycatcher Tree Swallow Cliff Swallow Rough - winged Swallow House Wren Common Bushtit Water Pipit Cedar Waxwing Yellow Warbler House Sparrow Western Meadowlark Red - winged Blackbird Bullock's Oriole Scientific Name Podiceps caspicus Aechmophorus'occidentalis Podilymbus podiceps Botaurus'lentigi•nosus Branta canadensis Arias strepera Anas•acuta Anas 'carolinensi.s Anas discors. Ma reca earner i'cana Spatula clypeata Bucephala islandica Bucephala al•beola Mergus merganser Buteo lagopus Circus cyaneus Falco sparverius Lophortyx californicus Phasianus colchicus Rallus limicola Fulica americana Capella gallinago Actitus macularia Erolia minutilla Ereunetes pusillus Larus.argentatus Larus californicus Larus delawarensis Larus canus Tyto alba Otus asio Asio flammeus Chordeiles minor Megaceryle alcyon Empidonax traillii Empidonax difficilis Iridoprocne bicolor Petrochelidon fulva Stelgidopteryx ruticollis Troglodyres aedon Psaltriparus minimus Anthus spinoletta Bombycilla cedrorum Dendroica petechia Passer domesticus Sturnella neglecta Agelaius phoeniceus Icterus bullockii Seasonal i ty OTHER BIRDS LIKELY TO BE OBSERVED AT THE SUBJECT SITE cont. Brewer's Blackbird Brown- headed Cowbird House Finch Rufous - sided Towhee Oregon Junco Savannah Sparrow White- crowned Sparrow Golden- crowned Sparrow Fox Sparrow Lapland Longspur EUpPhagus cyanocephalus Molothrus ater Carpodacus rtmexi•canus Pipiloerythrophthatmus Junco`oreganus Paser601.us sandwtchens i s Zonotrichi•aieucophrys Zonotrichta•artricapi1la Passerella•i•iaca ,Calcarius lapponicus observed on the subject site are listed in Table 12. Many of these species are probably present, but were . not observed because of their nocturnal habits. (ii) Fish The subject site lies within the Green - Duwamish River watershed. This river supports significant fish runs. The fisheries resources at the Green River have been estimated to be worth over $3,000,000 by the Washington State Department of Fisheries. Although some natural spawning occurs in the river, the majority of the ana- dromous fishes are released as fry or fingerlings from the Washington State Department of Fisheries Hatchery located on the Soos Creek tributary. Principal fish species known to be present in the river in the vicinity of the project site are listed in Table 13. TABLE 12 MAMMALS WHICH MIGHT BE SEEN ON THE SUBJECT SITE. Common Name Scientific Name Vagrant Shrew Sorex vagrans Marsh Shrew Sorex bendirei Shrew Mole Neurotrichus gibbsi Townsend's Mole Scapanus townsendi Coast Mole Scapanus orarius Various Bats Chiropetra spp. Townsend's Meadow Mouse Microtus townsendi Oregon Meadow Mouse Microtus oregoni Mountain Beaver .Aplodontia rufa Norway Rat Rattus norvegicus Black Rat Rattus rattus House Mouse Mus musculus Pacific Jumping Mouse Zapus trinotatus Red Fox Vulpes vulpes fulva Short - tailed Weasel Mustela erminea Striped Skunk Mephitis mephitis Spotted Skunk Spilogale putorius Domestic Dogs Domestic Cats TABLE 13 FISH SPECIES OF THE GREEN-DUWAMISH RIVER IN THE VICINITY OF THE SUBJECT Common Name Genus Species Chin ook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha Coho salmon 0ncorhvnchus kitsutch Chum salmon Dncorhynchus keta Cutthroat trout Salmo clarki Steelhead and Rainbow trout Salmo gairdneri Dolly Varden trout SalxelYnus malma Prickly sculpin Cottus asper Threespine stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus Longnose dace Rhinichtays cataractae Speckled dace Rhinichtays oculus Mountain whitefish Prosopium williamsoni Starry flounder (juveniles) Prosopium stellatus SITE f. Atmospheric Conditions (1) Existing Air Quality The following discussion is based both on air quality measurements made on site and data obtained from nearby monitoring stations maintained by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency and the Department of Ecology. Also measurements of suspended particulates and sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) were performed in an area southwest of the subject site on August 2 and 3, 1973. Twelve hourly measurements of SO2 were made. Each concen- tration in Table 14 is an average of three readings. The 24 -hour average for SO 2 was .038 ppm. These results are in general agreement with data obtained by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency (PSAPCA) -which are given in Table 15. SO2 is well within the standard and does not present any known problems at the present time. The concentration of suspended particulates was 67.7 micrograms per cubic meter of air (ugm /m3). The ambient air quality standards as adopted by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency for suspended particulates are 60 ugm /m3 (micrograms per cubic meter) annual geometric mean and 160 ugm /m3 24 -hour average never to be exceeded. For implementation purposes, the standard value for suspended particulates can be exceeded 15% of the time in a given month without violating the ambient air quality standard for the year. Thus,the measurement at the subject site of 67.7 ugm /m3 probably does not alone constitute a violation. Elsewhere in the Duwamish, data gathered from the Department of Ecology monitoring station on Marginal Way indicates that 23% of the 24 -hour reading for suspended particulates have exceeded 150 ugm /m3 in the last year. These high readings are probably a reflection of the intensive industrial activities in the lower Duwamish Region. Average Concentration Date Time Parts Per Million (ppm) 8/2/73 8/3/73 11:30 a.m. .040 12:30 p.m. .040 1:30 p. m. 2:30 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 4.30 p.m. .035 .018 .027 .041 5:30 p.m. .045 7:30 p.m. .026 8:30 p.m. 7:15 a.m. 8:15 a.m. 9:15 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 11:15 a.m. .023 .037 .022 .032 .037 Table 14 Average atmospheric concentration of sulfur dioxide. Sulfur Dioxide July Dec. Jan. Feb. Mar. (PPm) , 1972 1972 1973 1973 1973 Standard Value Monthly mean .004 .002 .002 .005 .006 .02 annual mean Daily maximum .04 .01 .01 .02 .02 .1 daily average Hourly maximum .24 .08 .08 .11 .11 .4 hourly average TABLE 15 Sulfur dioxide data obtained by the Puget Sound Air Pollution Control Agency at Andover Park Monitoring Station. • Table 16 indicates that suspended particulate concentrations . tend to increase from Renton to the Duwamish Industrial Area of Seattle, so that a value of 67.7 ugm /m3 is probably typical of the area. The above mentioned table also indicates that the concentrations of suspended particulates have increased in the area in the last two and one -half years. This trend will probably continue to increase in the "future. Particle fallout (see Table 16) is also high, reflecting the large amount of particulate matter in the air. This will mean a soiling problem for any structures, cars, clothes, etc., in the area. The one sulfation rate reading of 0.46 (Table 16) is not unusual for an urban area. No standards have been set for this measurement. Suspended Particulates 1973 (4 mo.) 1972 1971 Standard Value (Renton) 53.9 48.1 46.9 60 ug /m3 Annual Geometric Annual average in ugm /m3 (Duwamish) 97.6 89.6 76.4 Mean. g m3 24oHourAverage. Sulfation Rate (Renton) 2 (milligrams of S03 /100 cm per day) 0.46 No Standard Particle Fa11owt 10 Industrial (Renton) gms /m /mo. 5.2 5 Residential and Commercial TABLE 16 Suspended particulates, sulfation rate and particle fallout values. A summary of motor vehicle related air contaminants is presented in Table 17. Of the summarized pollutants, carbon monoxide is the most problematical. The air quality standards for the other pollutants resulting from motor vehicles (hydrocarbons and photochemical oxidants) are not projected to be exceeded in 1975, the Congressional deadline for meeting the ambient air quality standards. The number of days the 8 hour carbon monoxide standard would be exceeded is projected to drop in Seattle from 107 days in 1972 to 38 days by 1975. The maximum 8 -hour concentration will be between 16 and 17 parts per million on these days. (2) Sources of Air Contaminants The subject site is influenced both by stationary sources of pollutants, the Seattle industrial area; and auto related sources such as the nearby freeways. Particularly, peak hour traffic at the junction of Interstate 5and 405, and at the Southcenter Mall to the west of the subject site, as well as Longacres to the east of the site, constitute localized sources of vehiclar pollutants. AIR CONTAMINANTS RESULTING FROM MOTOR VEHICLES AS RECORDED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF ECOLOGY MONITORING STATION IN THE DUWAMISH Carbon Monoxide (CO) PPM Hydrocarbons PPM Oxidant Parts Per Hundred Million Average Maximum Minimum Average. Maximum Minimum Average Maximum Minimum 1972 June 1 4 0 2 3 2 1 4 0 July 1 4 0 2. 4 1 2 13 0 Aug. 1 7 0 2 5 1 1 4 0 Sept. 1 8 0 3 6 1 1 5 0 Oct. 3 10 0 3 7 2 1 4 0 Nov. 3 15 0 2 6 1 1 4. 0 Dec. 2 23 0 2 6 1 1 3 0 1973 Jan. 3 21 0 2 7 2 1 4 Feb. 3 12 0 2 7 2 1 4 March 2 9 0 2 5 2 1 3 April. 2 6 0 2 5 2 0 2 May 2 8 0 2 4 2 0 5 June 2 10 0 2 4 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 ugm /m3 PPM ugm /m3 PPM ugm /m3 PPM Ambient air 8 -Hour 3 -Hour 1 -Hour quality Average 10 9 Average 160 0.24 Average 160 0.08 Standards . not to be 1-Hour exceeded Average 40 35 more than once per year. (3) Meterology i) Temperature /Precipitation Temperature, precipitation, and solar radiation values for the subject site are given in Table 18 . These values are for Seattle- Tacoma International Airport and represent averages of all available data. Table 19 indicates the amount of rain falling in a given time period for various recurrence intervals. For instance, on the basis of past records, this area can expect to receive 3 inches of rainfall in a 24 hour period once every 5 years. ii. Wind Wind data (Figure E) are for Tukwila. Winds are light and variable 16.1% of the time in this area. South and south - southwest are the most frequent wind directions. (4) Existing Noise Ccnditions The ambient noise levels were measured at the subject site during late summer, at a location approximately 50 feet west of the roadway. The ambient levels were obtained by observing the lowest reading on the meter over a period of several minutes. The results were as follows: A Over- Octave Band Levels Weighted all Level Level 31.5 63 125 250 500 1000 2000 4000 8000 50 71 60 63 55 55 50 52 47 35 25 Sound Pressure Levels (20 Micro N /m2) Ambient Noise Levels at the Subject Site Principle noise source at the site is traffic on West Valley Highway. Readings from trucks on this major arterial fre- quently reached, and occasionally exceeded, 85 dB(A) during the measurement period. Other sources included light aircraft helicopters, aircraft from SeaTac International Airport, cars, service station operations (bell), Route 405, and rail traffic. The site was subjectively rated as noisy. The ambient levels were verified by making measurements across the river from the subject property, away from the West Valley road traffic. Levels obtained at this point were in' agreement with those made at the other location. They represent minimum daytime levels for the neighborhood. -. ,_'_. _. J F M A M J J A S 0 N D ANNUAL Temp.( °F) Ave. 1 38.3 40.8 43.8 49.2 55.5 .59.8 64.9 64.1 59.9 52.4 43.9 40.8 .51.1 Precip. (in.) 5.73 4.24 3.79 2.4 1.73 1.58 0.81 0.95 2.05 4.02 .5.35 6.29 38.94 Precip. Extremes Greatest monthly 12.92 9.11 8.40 3.75 4.76. .3.90. 2.10 2.18- 4.60 .8.95 9.69 9.50 55.14 Least monthly 0.86 1.66 0.57 . 0.33 0.35 0.13 . T 0.17 0.32 1.00 1.11 3.75 23.78 Greatest Daily 2.22 3.41 2.19 1.85 1.66. 1.53 . 0.74 1.36 1.77 2.27 3.41 2.52 3.41 Ave. no. of days with precip. Snowfall .01"' 19 15 16 13 11 ..9. .5 ... .6.. 8 14. 17 . 19 151 .1" 12 10 10 8 5 4 .2. .. 3. 4 . 8 14 13 93 .5" 4 2 1 1 0 0 0.. .0 1 - 2 4 3 18 1" 1 1 0 0... ..0 ... .0 0 0 1 1 4 4.3 1.3 .8 T 0 0.. 0 0 T 0.5 0.6 7.5 Ave. Daily Solar Rad- iation 2 (cal /cm ) 76.5 135. 259 418 531 534 580 475 330 191 104 62.5 .25 0.2 .75 .0 75 0.0 0.2 0.5 0.0 0.6 Table 18 : Temperature precipitation and solar radiation values from.Sea -Tac Airport. Duration/ Recurrence Interval 2 yr. 5 yr. 10 yr. 25 yr. 50 yr. 30 min. .4 '.5 .6 .6 .7 1 hour 2 hour 3 hour 6 hour 12 hours 24 hours 48 hours . 96 hours .5 .6 .7 .8 .9 .7 .8 1.0 1.2 1.5 .9 1.2 1.5 1.7 2.0 1.5 1.8 2.0 2.5 2.8 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.2 3.5 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.2 3.0 4.0 4.5 5.0. 5.5 4.0 4.5 5.5 6.0 7.0 Table 19: Amounts of rain falling in a given time period for various recurrence intervals. WNW - - - ENE 0.5 / / / \ \ \ 0.7 NNW 9.3 N 9.3 NNE .4 NW NE 4.5 1.6 ION LOCRTION- UNCLUSIVE ORTES- `(UTRL OBSERVATIONS- 16.0 21.0 24.0. 27.0_ SSW sox. SSE 17.5 S 5.7 _21.4 HOUR AVERAGE SURFACE WINDS PERCENTAGE FREQUENCY OF OCCURRENCE PUGET SOUND AIR POLLUTION CONTROL AGENCY 227 ANDOVER PARK E, TUKW.ILA ALL MONTHS 1972 8536 Figure E SE 1.5 1.1- 4.0- 7.0- 11.0- 17.0 - OVER 9.9 6.9 10.9 16.9 21.9 21.9 KNOTS 0.0 9.0 6-0 9.0 1!.0 15.0 E 0.5 B. Existing Conditions (Cont'd.) 2. Human Use, Development and Values a. General Development The following is a summary,, performed by the Tukwila, City Planning Department, of generalized human use and development within the 8 square mile planning area surrounding the subject area: Residential (8 square miles surrounding the area) 1) Single Family Dwelling 3,484 (Average Household Size 2.3) 2) Two Family Dwellings 2 3) Three or Four Family Dwellings 3 4) Five to Eight Family Dwellings 0 5) Nine or More Family Dwellings 59 6) Hotels, Motels and Tourist Homes 3 7) Mobile Homes 0 Commercial 1) Wholesale and Distributors 34 2) Retail a. Southcenter 108, 1. Shopping Population (daily) - 28,600 2. Shopping Population (peak) - 92,000 3. 1971 Total Shopping Population - 11,500,000 b. Other than Southcenter 10 Industrial 1) Mining 2 2) Construction 2 3) Manufacturing a. Southcenter 7 b. Other than Southcenter 24 Employment - Large, Major Sources 1) Southcenter 1,.700 peak (3,000) 2) Andover Industrial Park a. Distribution Firms 607 b. Manufacturing Firms 275 3) City Administration 106 Recreational 1) Minor Parks (Less than 5 Acres) a. Picnic Tables b. 2 Tennis Courts 2) Golf Courses 3) Tukwila Community Club 4) Race Tracks (Longacres) 5) Numerous Fishing Sites Along the River 4 1 Transportation 1) Railroads (BNSF Burlington Northern, Union Pacific, Milwaukee a. Passenger b. Freight 2) Taxi Cab Services 3) 405 and 1 -5 Intersections a. Cars to Southcenter (daily average) - 13,000 b. Cars to Southcenter (peak daily average) - 40,000 4) Truck Transportation - 2,500 daily a. Terminals b. Freeway Accesses 5) River Transportation 6) Employees (Southcenter) - 7,500 7) Cars (Southcenter) - 5,013,600 yearly) Education 1) Elementary 4 2) Jr. High 1 3) Sr. High 1 Religion 1) Churches 10 Tukwila has grown to become a major trade center in the last few years. The City is unusual in that it has become a major urban area with a population of only 3,128:' Tukwila had a population density of 2 -4.99 persons per acre in 1970 and is projected to have the same density in 1990. This is a relatively low growth in population compared to other communities in South King County such as Kent, Renton and Highline. On the other hand, the City's assessed valuation has increased from $1,872,000 in 1961 to $68,000,000 in 1971 and to $89,641,130 in 1972. By official estimation, the City has become a "$90 Million Dollar Corporation" and by 1975 the assessed valuation will increase to $120,000,000. The largest portion of the City- revenue comes from real and personal property taxes, and general sales and use taxes, $491,576, and $134,553, respectively in 1973. Typically, a city with a. population the size of Tukwila would pro- bably support a few policemen and a volunteer fire department. Tuk- wila supports a police force of 26 and a fire fighting force of 16. Other branches of the city administration are also very extensive, commensurate with the necessity to provide services for the large scale urban activities occurring within the city limits. A consideration of existing social conditions must take into account the larger area to be affected by the proposed development. A large number of persons from outside of the city limits will utilize the facility as well as the supporting city services. The Green River Valley and the Duwamish Industrial Area, in the vicinity of the project site, along with the Seattle central business district and the City of Bellevue represent King County's largest employment centers. Total employment was estimated to be 499,100 in 1970, and increasing to 641,300 by 1990 (28? change) as per Puget Sound Governmental Conference Survey. Employment forecasts show significant new growth in the Green River Valley and the Duwamish Industrial Area,and continuing growth in the central business districts. One of the analysis districts studied by Puget Sound Governmental Conference encompasses the lower Green River Valley around the subject site. Employment within this district was estimated at 20,800 in 1970 and increasing to 36,100 in 1990. One of the consequences of the recent trends in urban growth in • Tukwila is the disappearance of open green spaces and a growing deficit in small urban parks. The PSGC has surveyed open space requirements for King County. It was noted that parks and open spaces are used by persons who live in reasonable proximity to them without regard to political boundaries. Small urban parks needs are based on a rough standard of 1.25 acres small urban park space per 1000 people. The Tukwila community area, studied by PSGC extends beyond the geographical limits of the City to include persons in adjacent areas, both incorporated and unicor- porated. Thus, the following projection of Tukwila's growing small urban park deficiency is based on the distribution of the present and future population of the community area. TUKWILA COMMUNITY AREA 1970 Existing Need Deficiency Small Urban Park 6.11 27.29 21.18 1980 Need Deficiency 34.17 28.06 1990 Need Deficiency 39.46. 33.35 C. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 1. Changes in the Natural Characteristics a. Topography and Geology The Green River Valley, as a whole, had undergone some minor alteration during previous farming activities and levee construction, but for the most part it retained the basic characteristics of a mature flood plain up to the recent period of industrial and commercial expansion. Particularly, within the immediate vicinity of the subject site a number of alterations have occurred. The original river channel looped north around the sub- ject site. This bend of the river was straightened when 1 -405 was constructed. As a result, an oxbow pond was left just north of the subject site. Construction of the nearby highways and river levees constitute additional topographical alterations of the general site vicinity. The surface of the subject site will be altered to the extent that an excavation will be made to remove existing soils under the building. Imported, select fill will . then be compacted in- place and the . foundation footings (spread) will be poured upon this compacted surface. Vertical exterior walls are then in order to obtain a finished first floor minimum elevation 27.8 MSL as requested by the King County Flood Control District. b. Impact on Surface Drainage and Water Quality Upon completion of site preparation activities, drainage which presently flows towards the oxbow pond or eventually drains towards the river, will be discharged directly into the river. The increase in paved surfaces will reduce the ground area available for infil- tration and will serve to lower the water table. Table 20 gives some average figures for wastes in surface runoff water that might be expected from the subject site after commercial development, as compared to its present agricultural uses. 2. Pervious area rate of accumulation 3. Subsurface Concentratipn Thus, on the basis of the above figures, development of the subject site for commercial purposes will improve the water quality of surface drainage in terms of biochemical oxygen demand, conform organisms, and nutrients. Suspended solids, hydrocarbons and heat input from paved surfaces will increase as a result of the proposed development; however, no data presently available for these parameters. c. Impact on Biology The major impacts on the biological conditions occurred years ago when the subject site was first cleared for farming purposes, and later when the committments were made to develop the adjacent areas. On -going grazing activities prevent the pasture areas of the subject site from becoming established as an element of the bird foraging habitats. The habitats formed by vegetation along the river levee will not be removed by the proposed development. Removal of the cottonwood tree will not be problematical for nesting birds as there are a number of alternative cottonwoods nearby. Thus, the impact of the proposed development on existing wildlife will be relatively minimal. Furthermore, it is not anticipated that nesting areas in the ad- jacent area (i.e., the oxbow pond) will be disturbed. The two big -leaf maples will be preserved and utilized as part of the courtyard of the proposed building complex. d. Impacts on Atmospheric Conditions The concentrations of suspended particulates can be expected to be temporarily increased during the site preparation and construction phase of the proposed action. Vehicular related pollutants will increase slightly as a result of increased traffic in the vicinity. The increases resulting from the proposed development are minor in relationship to the existing sources of vehicular contaminants such as Longacres (when exiting) and the nearby highways and freeways. e. Impacts on Noise There exists the potential for noise impact during the . construction phase. Powered machinery will be employed to accomplish the site preparation. However this impact will be mitigated by the pervasive nature of the traffic noise from West Valley. Highway. Since the structural details call for low level buildings, constuction will be similar to residential construction in nature and will not likely cause significant impact. In addition, construction will last for a relatively short period of time, probably less than 12 months, which further serves to mitigate the noise impact of the construction phase. Noise impact during operation of the facility will be small or negligible. There is presently a high level of noise at the site and the influx of automobile traffic will not be sufficient to add appreciably to the existing levels. Little truck associated noise will be generated, and that will not be differentiable from the existing heavy vehicular traffic in the area. Conceivably the evening operation of the restaurant facility, particularly the resulting traffic movements,may create a noise unlike the present character of night time noise in the neighbor- hood. However, these noises will be minimum and certainly accept- able given the adjacent land uses. f. Social Impact (i) General The proposed development represents a continuation of the existing trend of rapid urbanization which is occurring within the corporate limits of the City of Tukwila. The assessed value of the City will increase and the area will continue to grow as a regional employment and commercial/ industrial center, as a result of this development and others of a similar nature. Inasmuch as Tukwila is a re- gional employment and commercial /industrial center, the population affected by the trend of development is spread over a large area. There is no nearby identifiable com- munity that will be affected by the proposed development. Given the existing market trends and land uses which have occurred adjacent to the site, the proposed develop- ment will constitute an optimal use of the land. An attractive work environment will be provided for those utilizing the structure. Integration of a restaurant in- to the complex will meet a need not otherwise met in the vicinity. (ii) Traffic Impact The average daily traffic volume on West Valley Highway is 13,600 vehicles. In general, peak hour traffic volumes are 10 -120 of the average daily volume. Since the turnover of vehicles arriving at an office build- ing complex tends to be relatively low (i.e., as compared to a retail commercial complex), it is not anticipated that traffic input to West Valley Highway will be signif- icant. As mentioned previously, some improvements to West Valley Highway, such as a traffic signal and stacking lanes, may be required to facilitate access to the site when traffic at Longacres is heavy. D. UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS The following is a discussion of adverse effects and possible mitigating measures relating directly to the above described impacts resulting from the proposed action. 1. Effects Adverse effects to the existing natural conditions as a result of the proposed development will be minimal. Considerations of the physical limitations of the site have been adequately incorporated into the building design. Further measures incorporated into the project plans include preservation of the two major trees on the site. Those unavoidable effects which might occur are primarily related to drainage. As mentioned previously, surface runoff from the paved surfaces will contain hydrocarbons and will represent an additional heat input to the river system. Also, the general regional trend of development and the resultant increases in paved surfaces will in the long run, reduce pervious surfaces available for aquifer recharge and may lower the overall water table, which is used as a source of well water at other locations. 2. Diminishing or Mitigating Measures In order to minimize hydrocarbons and oils from entering the river system, separators or skimmers could be placed at the point of drainage discharge into the river. Lowering of the water table, as a result of directing drainage into the river system, could be minimized by the implementation of various design and engineering techniques. For example, drainage from imper- vious surfaces could be accomplished by use of roof retention ponds to collect and store drainage to be released gradually through filters of French drain systems under the parking lot. However, to effectively reverse the trend of lowering the water table, such measures would have to be widely utilized in developments throughout the valley. The present biological conditions of the subject site could be enhanced by the selection of vegetation used in the landscaping scheme, in order to most closely approximate the natural shrubbery which might occur on such a site. The Washington State Department of Game and the local, Soil Conservation Service have provided list of suitable plants, providing food and cover, which are adapted to particular soil types and conditions. For the conditions represented by the subject site, the planting of more Big -leaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum), Douglas -fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), Vine Maple (Acer circinatum), Huckleberries (Vaccinium spp.), Elderberries (Sambucus spp.), Black Cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa), Blackberries (Rubus spp.), and Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) could be undertaken. Some of these plant species occur immedi- ately north of the subject site around the Oxbow Pond. E. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED ACTION 1. Alternative Projects or Programs A discussion of alternatives is limited by a consideration of existing land use policies and commitments in the immediate vicinity of the`sub- ject site. As indicated previously, the City of Tukwila planning poli- cies favor . commercial and industrial expansion within the corporate city limits. Also, the Puget Sound, Governmental Conference has disignated industrial use for this area4on the Interim Regional Development Plans. These land use policies are being fulfilled as evidenced by the recent rapid urban development and growing assessed value of property within the city. This trend of development is projected to continue for seve- ral years. Thus, alternatives involving a departure from the present trend of urban development must begin with alternatives to the adopted policies at the local and regional levels. While some room for further refinement of the existing land use policies exists, 'a radical depar- ture from the present policies is not likely at this time, as commit- ments to transportation networks and other supporting utilities have already been made. In light of the existing land use policies, the following alternatives could be considered: - - "Do- nothing" alternative - - A more intensive use, such as an industrial development -- A less intensive use, such as farming a. "Db- Nothing" Alternative A "do- nothing" alternative could result in costs to both the private and public sectors in the form of lost investment and tax revenues for each, respectively. The taxes which would continue to be levied on the unusable property would be burdensome to the owners who would have no means available to earn a return on the land in order to offset these taxes. The resulting tax burden could be partially, but not completely, offset by the classification of the project site as open space for assess- ment for tax purposes. The accomplishments of a "do- nothing" alternative would be the pre- servation of the subject site for future alternative uses which are unascertained at this time. Open space is increasingly recognized as a limited resource. Loss of the subject area as an available com- merical resource could very possibly shift the burden of demand for this resource to another part of the region not guided by commit- ments to commercial development to the extent that Tukwila is. Other portions of the region may not, at this time, have adequate facilities, i.e., transportation systems, to support a commercial complex and may experience such development as a burden. Tukwila, on the other is located at the nexus of two major freeways. The environmental impacts of the a "do- nothing" alternative would be a continuation of existing conditions which are recognized to have been altered from their state some time ago.. If grazing con- tinues, high nutrient and coliform input to the Green River from the subject site will continue. If grazing were discontinued, the vegetation of the subject site would be rapidly transformed due to the high fertility of the soils and the natural successional pro- cesses. For example, within 6 -10 years, cottonwood saplings might reach a height of 30 feet. b. More Intensive Uses Such as an Industrial Development Alternate developments for the project site allowed by existing zoning, include uses such as a motel, an industrial complex and ware- housing. Such uses of the site would seem feasible due to the pro- ximity of freeways, the Southcenter shopping center, airport and warehousing facilities. However, due to the physical limitations of the soils,high density uses were not considered appropriate. The soils are highly compressible and are subject to unpredictable differential settlement under heavy industrial loads. Thus, uses which might be accomplished within a light frame structure were con - sidered most appropriate. A more intensive alternative use might result in greater environ- mental impacts than associated with the development resulting from the proposed action. For example, industrial uses, in general re- sult in greater impervious areas than do commercial uses (95% as compared to 72% in the case of the subject site). Consequently greater heat and hydrocarbon input to the river would occur. Otherwise, the environmental impacts of a more intensive use of the project site, if not limited by soils considerations, would be sim- ilar to the proposed development. c. Less Intensive Use Such as Farming The soils found on the subject site are inherently suitable for agricultural purposes. Prime soils of the type found in the Green River Valley are a limited regional resource. Economically, how- ever such a use would be costly to accomplish. Agriculture could only occur on a subsidized basis. High costs of farm production on the scale possible at this location and tax assessments on the land would probably not be offset by the return from farm products, providing there is a sufficient market for such products in the first place. SCS reports that loss of market or- ganization is already a problem. Accomplishments of this alterna- tive would be the preservation of agricultural use on soils suitable for this activity. This land use is currently being zoned and assessed out of existence in the Green River Valley. If preserva- tion of agricultural use in the Green River Valley evolves as a true regional policy, it could be more feasibly accomplished in other areas not already disrupted by extensive alterations to the land and not already covered with conflicting land uses as is the case within the subject area. Lastly, an agricultrual alternative may be considered undesirable due to the close proximity of the subject site to the freeway. Crops grown in such a location will be high in airborne vehicular exhaust contaminants particularly lead. 2. Alternatives Within the Proposed Action The development resulting from the proposed action is the result of a series of plans that have evolved in the normal decision- making process. The present layout of the building complex was chosen in order to uti- lize the view of the Green River and in order to preserve the two Big -Leaf Maples. Access to the site and parking were based on the relationship of the buildings to the existing highway. Thus, the present layout of buildings and parking is considered the most viable option. Alternatives within the proposed project are limited to landscaping and facade treatment considerations. For example, walkways and land- scaping could be designed to preserve access to the point bar on the west side of the subject site. This point bar, as well as the one just south and across the river from the site, are unusual features of the Green River banks. Such point bars constitute some of the few loca- tions where easy access to the river is possible. This physical amen- ity of the subject site could be incorporated into the project plans to enhance the aesthetic qualities of the completed building complex. Conclusion The development resulting from the proposed action represents the most viable use of the subject site in light of existing land use policies, physical limitations of the soils, and marketing factors. F.. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOCAL SHORT -TERM ENVIRONMENTAL USES AND MAINTENANCE AND ENHANCEMENT OF LONG-TERM PRODUCTIVITY Short-term uses for the subject area will constitute a transition time only in which all of the land within the subject area will be converted to commercial, industrial and business uses. Potentials for long-term productivity of involved, nonrenewable resources largely involve the land area itself. Development resulting from the proposed action will preclude the land being used for agricultural pur- poses, except if market,conditions determine that the need for land for commercial /industrial uses in this area is not critical. This may be the case farther south in the Green River Valley, but is not likely at this location. Future economic productivity will largely depend on the industrial growth trends in the central Puget Sound region. Industry will continue to be largely distributive and service oriented rather than manufactur- ing in nature. G. IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE RESOURCE COMMITMENTS WITH THE PROPOSED ACTION Irreversible resource commitments occurred years ago when local policy makers initially decided to favor urban development in the Green River Valley. The proposed action will result in the further commitment of the subject area to commercial and industrial land uses, which, in turn, will commit financial resources, construction materials and labor to achieving such use. This will, in turn, result in some preclusion of optional future land uses and loss of the intrinsic resource of fertile soil. APPENDIX A STATION 4 RENTON JUNCTION Variable Standard No. Variable Number Average Deviation Maximum Minimum Median Range 1 TEMP 3o 17.657 1.264 20.000 15.000 17.800 5.000 2 DO 30 8.188 0.339 8.890 7.480 8.210 1.410 3 PH 30 7.385 0.104 7.600 7.140 7.380 0.460 4 TOT ALK 29 40.369 3.226 44.200 31.200 41.100 13.000 5 BICARB A 29 40.369 3.226 44.200 31.200 41.100 13.000 6 COND 3o 128.667 21.103 175.000 78.000 129.500 97.000 7 BOD 18 1.922 0.919 4.200 0.410 1.765 3.790 8 TURBID 30 3.630 2.448 14.000 1.300 3.300 12.700 9 KJ NIT 27 0.447 0.374 2.200 0.180 0.350 2.020 10 NHO 30 0.075 0.103 0.590 0.020 0.050 0.570 11 NO2 -N 13 0.016 0.014 0.060 0.010 0.010 0.050 12 NO3 -N 30 0.364 0.094 0.600 0.210 0.380 0.390 13 TOT PO4 13 0.126 0.029 0.190 0.030 0.120 0.110 14 HYD PO4 30 0.149 0.056 0.390 0.090 0.130 0.300 Table 1 Variable No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 STATION.5 KENT 212st BRIDGE Standard Variable Number Average Deviation Maximum Minimum Median Range TEMP 30 17.543- 1.406 20.000 14.500 17.500 5.500 DO 30 8.545 0.510 9.700 7.360 8.555 2.340 PH 30 7.380 0.110 7.600 7.100 7.370 0.500 TOT ALK 29 37.228 3.039 41.700 29.100 38.100 12.600 BICARB A 29 37.228 3.039 41.700 29.100 38.100 12.600 COND 30. • 110.367. 13.512 137.000 78.000 112.500 69.000 BOD 18 2.309 0.957 4.280 0.420 2.245 3.860 TURBID 30 3.577 3.442 19.000 0.600 2.400 18.400 KJ NIT 27 0.422 0.236 1.370 0.100 0.400 1.270" NHO 29 0.081 0.034 0.190 0.020 0.080 0.170 NO2 -N 13 0.012 0.004 0.020 0.010 0.010 0.010 NO3 -N 30 0.316 0.119 0.830 0.140 0.320. 0.690 TOT PO4 13 0.134 0.036 0.190 0.090 0.120 0.100 HYD PO4 30 0.140 0.047 0.230 0.060 0.130 0.170 TABLE 2 STATION 4 RENTON JUNCTION Variable Standard No. Variable Number Average Deviation Maximum Minimum Median Range 15 ORTHO P 30 0.110 0.057 0.330 0.060 0.100 0.270 16 COPPER 29 0.020 0.015 0.070 0.010 0.020 0.060 17 LEAD 2 0.100 -0.000 0.100 0.100 0.100 0.000 18 ZINC 29 0.009 0.006 0.031 0.002 0.008 0.029 19 MERCURY 2 0.200 0.000 0.200 0.200 0.200 0.000 20 T COLIF. 30 39959.000 69858.125. 215000.000 400.000 4125.000 214600.000 21 FECAL CO 29 763.379 2304.716 12000.000 15.000 130.000 11985.000 22 CHLORD A 30 4.300 2.145 9.810 0.910 3.770 8.900 TABLE 3 STATION 5 KENT 212st BRIDGE Variable Standard No. Variable Number Average a Deviation Maximum Minimum Median Range 15 ORTHO P 29 0.105 0.044 0.240 0.060 0.090 0.180 16 COPPER 29 0.028 0.035 0.190 0.010 0.020 0.180 17 LEAD 2 0.100 -0.000 0.100 0.100 0.100 0.000 18 ZINC 29 0.010 0.009 0.045 0.001 0.008 0.044 19 MERCURY 2 0.200 0.000 0.200 0.200 0.200 0.000 20 T COL1F 28 39145.105 88073.750 445000.000 250.000 3500.000 444750.000 21 FECAL CO 26 659.039 1357.757 5500.000 24.000 187.000 5476.000 22 CHLORO A 30 5.095 3.317 11.900 1.070 3.965 10.830 TABLE .4 - Cell Counts Per Milliliter 4 sll • • •r --T 6__ 4 r i / . .. f..l .. 3--I - -_ • . .. • � - f' /. ' .. • 1 • ,.. 5- - ii • I r I. 7/26 7/27 7/28 7/29 -... -- 1 _,._ 7_ _. 1 • 1 - Figure Renton Junction Station Algal cell counts. (So 1 .. 1 observations: 8/0/72 - 8/10/72) - -0 -- Centrales 1 --4 -- Coccoid Blue -Green 1 — 0 — Filamentous • �1 Blue -Green 11 I — 6 — Pennales 1.. 7/30 .7/31 8/1 8/2 8/3 8/4 — 8/5 8/6 8/7 8/8 8/9 8/10 8/11 8/12 8/13 8/14 Study Dates - 1972 FIGUIRE 8/15 8/16 8/17 8/18 8/19 0 /20 8/21 8/22 - - - - - - - ,- - - -. - - - 8 767 5— 4 3 Figure Kent 212th St. Bridge System Algal Cell Counts. (No obser- vations: 8/10/73). - -0-- Centra.lea - -p -- Coccoid Blue -Green -0 - Filamentous Blue -Green - p- Pernales d • -1' . - • i I :5 I - � r r 7 - 1 ,_ Tom_ ., , : ; : j 1 - I , . 1 , r - d = . i -1 • / // 2 1 ! i� I.h� . -1-�.� l�.a.11i'•� I *�?' :_f"�- j}(��i .i'1 • �11 i'Ii�II T_"i T . f' i i 7� , � �4t . .'r�.f l -•.1�- .-� -+�,.: r�_ -'_�. ..1'I_{ �^ � Ij_t —��._- I fl 7/26 7/27 T/28 7/29 7/30 7/31 8/1 8/2 18/3 8/4 8/5 8/6 8/7 8/8 8/9 8/10 8/11 8/12 8/13 '8/14 8/15 8/16 8/17 8/18 8/19 8/20. 8/21 8/22 FIGURE B Study Dates - 1972