HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning 2023-11-09 COMPLETE AGENDA PACKETCity of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
Department of Community Development - Nora Gierloff, AICP, Director
CITY OF TUKWILA
PLANNING COMMISSION (PC)
AGENDA
November 9, 2023 - 6:30 PM
To Participate in the Virtual Meeting at 6:30 pm:
By Phone: Dial +1 253-292-9750, Access 779 253 241#
Online: To join this meeting virtually please click on Planning Commission on the
11/09/23 calendar date on the events page located at
https://www.tukwilawa.gov/events/
For Technical Support during the meeting, you may call 1-206-433-7155
Join in -person at: 6200 Southcenter Blvd, Council Chambers, Tukwila, WA. 98188
Start Time
I. Call to Order 6:30
II. Roll Call 6:32
III. Amendment of the Agenda (if necessary) 6:33
IV. Adoption of Minutes (10/26/23) 6:33
V. General Public Comments (acknowledge written comments received) 6:38
VI. Old Business (none)
VII. New Business 6:40
1. Natural Environment & Shoreline Elements - Briefing
VIII. Director's Report 7:40
IX. Adjournment 7:45
General Public Comments: Persons wishing to provide general comments on any non-public hearing, planning -
related topic may submit their written comment to BoardsComms@TukwilaWA.gov. Comments received
before 5:00 p.m. the day before the Planning Commission meeting will be forwarded to Commissioners
prior to their meeting. Materials received after that time will be forwarded prior to the next meeting.
Reminder: Staff is available to address Planning Commissioner questions regarding packets anytime — we
encourage Commissioners to call or email staff by noon on the Tuesday before the Commission meeting
date. Please call or email Commission Secretary Wynetta Bivens, at 206-431-3654 or
Wynetta.Bivens@u,TukwilaWA.gov to be connected with the appropriate staff member. Thank you!
Tukwila City Hall • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
Department of Community Development - Nora Gierloff, AICP, Director
CITY OF TUKWILA
PLANNING COMMISSION (PC)
MINUTES
Date: October 26, 2023
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Hybrid Meeting - via Microsoft Teams / Public, In -Person Attendance, Council Chambers,
6200 Southcenter Blvd, Tukwila, WA 98188
Call to Order
Chair Sidhu called the Tukwila Planning Commission meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Roll Call
The PC Secretary took roll call.
Present: Chair Apneet Sidhu; Vice Chair Sharon Mann; Commissioners Louise Strander, Dennis
Martinez, Martin Probst, Alexandria Teague, and Ann Durant
Staff: Director Nora Gierloff, American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP), Department of
Community Development (DCD); Long Range Planning Manager Nancy Eklund, AICP,
DCD; Senior Planner Neil Tabor, AICP, DCD; and PC Secretary Wynetta Bivens
Amendment of the Agenda (if necessary)
The Commission did not consider any changes to the agenda.
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Mann moved to adopt the 9/28/23 Minutes. Commissioner Martinez seconded the motion.
Commissioner Sidhu and Strander abstained; they were absent. Motion carried.
Commissioner Mann moved to adopt the 10/05/23 Minutes. Commissioner Strander seconded the motion.
Commissioner Martinez was absent (his request to be noted as an abstention was not seen by the chair,
although staff heard his request). Motion carried.
Written General Public Comments
No submittals.
Unfinished Business
None.
New Business
Neil Tabor, Senior Planner, AICP, DCD, provided a brief overview of the focus for the evening's
agenda.
Tukwila City Hall • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Website: YukwilaWA.gov
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PC Meeting
10/26/23
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a. Land Use / Housing/ Reasonable Measures
Nancy Eklund, Long Range Planning Manager and Neil Tabor noted that some of the evening's comments
would be a refresher of discussion from the 10/5/23 meeting, and that tonight's topics would continue that
discussion. Staff walked through the presentation pertaining to housing, noting that a significant emphasis of
the Housing Element updates would address racially disparate impacts, issues of equity, and requirements of
recent Washington legislative actions. Staff walked through new State requirements and directives from the
Department of Commerce and King County Countywide Planning policies and how adopted Tukwila policies
were consistent or inconsistent.
The City's consultant, Ian Crozier, MAKERS Architecture and Urban Design, provided a presentation
regarding the Housing Element. He stated they are ensuring that the element is in compliance with the recent
legislative actions, as well as King County Countywide Planning Policies. The Commission had questions
about the requirements of HB 1220 pertaining to housing plans addressing the provision of housing to persons
of different income bands and the City's responsibility to plan for 1,242 emergency shelter beds. He noted
how the Comprehensive Plan can remove barriers to ownership through zoning updates and policy language,
noting that Middle Housing options may reduce some of those barriers. He noted that one of the things heard
at community meetings and in interviews was that housing affordability was critical. They will focus on
ensuring consistency with guidance addressing housing, climate change, and equity.
Staff walked through the eight goals from the 2015 Residential Neighborhoods Element and provided a
consistency analysis of those with Commerce guidance (identifying if a policy was "S - supportive, A -
approaching, or C- challenging" of adopted state guidance). The intent of the review is to reorganize the
goals (identifying what content in the Residential Neighborhoods Element should be retained and put in
which other elements to avoid redundancies, inconsistencies with guidance, and streamline goals and
policies).
There was discussion on policy examples - some Commissioners were opposed to striking policy
7.3.6 for strict enforcement of codes for neighborhood quality. Staff noted that the city already has a staff of
three in code enforcement, and that the language ("neighborhood quality") was vague and guidance from
Commerce and others suggested that including this language would be potentially problematic. Staff
discussed how intentionally retaining language flagged by Commerce for removal was potentially disruptive
to the approval process and could impact the city's ultimate Plan approval and certification by Puget Sound
Regional Council (PSRC) (resulting in their not providing needed transportation funding to Tukwila).
• A Commissioner expressed concerns about light pollution as a nuisance or an environmental factor that
should be considered and requested future discussion.
Director's Report
• Director Gierloff provided an update on the ordinance extending the Boards and Commission terms
from an expiration date of 12/31/23 to 3/30/24.
• To meet the goal for the current PC members to complete their public hearing and provide a Comp
Plan recommendation by the end of March staff is requesting that Commissioners reserve additional
meetings dates in January, February, and March 2024 (second and fourth Thursdays). Proposed
meeting dates include the following:
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
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Thursday, January 11, 2024
Thursday, January 25, 2024
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Thursday, February 8, 2024
Thursday, February 22, 2024
Thursday, March 14, 2024
Thursday, March 28, 2024
PC Special Meeting
PC Regular Meeting
Community Open House
PC Special Meeting
PC Regular Meeting
PC Public Hearing
PC Hearing follow-up
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
Sullivan Center
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
4-8-ish
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
Adjourned
Commissioner Mann moved to adjourn; Commissioner Probst seconded the motion. All were in favor of
adjourning. The Planning Commission adjourned at 8:36 p. m.
Submitted by: Wynetta Bivens
PC Secretary
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
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TO:
FROM:
BY:
DATE:
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
Department of Community Development — Nora Gierloff, AICF, Director
Tukwila Planning Commission
Nora Gierloff, AICP, DCD Director
Nancy Eklund, AICP & Neil Tabor, AICP
November 9, 2023
SUBJECT: Natural Environment & Shoreline Elements - Briefing
ISSUE
This agenda item is to brief the Planning Commission at their November 9, 2023, meeting on
status of proposed amendments to the Natural Environment Element and Shoreline Element of
the City's Comprehensive Plan.
BACKGROUND
The Growth Management Act requires that the comprehensive plans and development
regulations support specific goals, as discussed in RCW 36.70A.020. Examples of these goals are
as follows (the full list is at the end of this memo):
(10) Environment. Protect and enhance the environment and enhance the state's high quality of life,
including air and water quality, and the availability of water.
(14) Climate change and resiliency. Ensure that comprehensive plans, development regulations, and
regional policies, plans, and strategies under RCW 36.70A.210 and chapter 47.80 RCW adapt to and
mitigate the effects of a changing climate; support reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and per
capita vehicle miles traveled; prepare for climate impact scenarios; foster resiliency to climate
impacts and natural hazards; protect and enhance environmental, economic, and human health and
safety; and advance environmental justice.
(15) Shorelines of the state. For shorelines of the state, the goals and policies of the shoreline
management act as set forth in RCW 90.58.020 shall be considered an element of the county's or
city's comprehensive plan.
In support of this, the City is updating both the Natural Environment and the Shoreline
Elements as a part of the 2024-2044 Periodic Comprehensive Plan Update. As described in
RCW 36.70A.020, This update requires that cities be guided by regional policies, plans, and
strategies (links to this guidance is in the Additional Resources section at the end of this memo).
The King County Countywide Planning Policies provide guidance focused on addressing issues of
Climate Change, Community Resilience and Equity, which have been incorporated into these
draft elements.
Tukwila City Hall • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Natural Environment and Shoreline Element Updates - Briefing
November 9, 2023
Page 2 of 7
UPDATES IN THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT & SHORELINE ELEMENTS
Shoreline Element
RCW 36.70A.020 states that the goals and policies of Shorelines of the State and the Shoreline
Management Act (RCW 90.58.020) shall be considered in cities' comprehensive plans. Tukwila
last updated its Shoreline Master Program (SMP) in 2019, and the Shoreline Element is largely
consistent with that update, however, there are a few minor deviations.
Amendments to the SMP (and the associated Shoreline Element) require that the City engage
with the Washington Department of Ecology in a defined review process that takes an extended
period of time and involves a lot of agencies. At this time, there is not sufficient staff and
Planning Commission capacity to integrate the requirements of a formal Shoreline amendment
as a part of the Comprehensive Plan update process, however, we believe our proposed
updates are minor enough to be acceptable without opening the full review process. The
majority of the changes identified are either formatting changes, changes relating to
differences between the DOE -adopted Element and what we have in our 2015 plan, and minor
changes that bring the Element into consistency with adopted state laws.
In the past few months, staff have been unsuccessful in securing a meeting with DOE to review
the proposed draft. We are still hoping to hear back from them before the end of the year. If
necessary, we will need to set aside the proposed amendments until a later date when there is
time to engage in the required DOE review process.
Natural Environment Element
Changes to the Natural Environment Element were initiated for several reasons — to address:
• Updates to old information — inventory information is no longer current or there is new
information that can be added (e.g., conditions have changed)
• Changes to reflect new practices or procedures, either by the City or other agencies
• Changes to reflect climate change, resiliency, or equity requirements. These updates
were completed both by staff and a consultant hired as a part of the Periodic Update
Grant. (Many climate change additions have been marked with a grey highlight).
At this time, the City is integrating its Climate Change policies through the various elements of
the Plan, although in 2029, we will be required to develop a separate comprehensive plan
element to address climate change. The climate change section of the Natural Environmnet will
serve as a starting place for that element. The description of the required content for that
element is found in the Additional Resources section of this memo (starting on page 4).
Types of text changes that were made in the Natural Environment Element include the
following:
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Natural Environment and Shoreline Element Updates - Briefing
November 9, 2023
Page 3 of 7
Page
Delete Old /
Update with
New
Changes / New
Notes
Procedures
Climate Change/
Resiliency/Equity
Language
cleanup/
consolidation
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Archaeology — to be moved
to Community Image;
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Air quality resulting from
wildfires added
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Air quality resulting from
transportation system
impacts added
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Climate change additions
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Climate change additions
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Levee discussion moved to
Capital Facilities Element
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Natural Environment and Shoreline Element Updates - Briefing
November 9, 2023
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ATTACHMENTS
• Shoreline - CLEAN
• Shoreline - TRACK CHANGES
• Natural Environment - CLEAN
• Natural Environment - TRACK CHANGES
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Natural Environment and Shoreline Element Updates - Briefing
November 9, 2023
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Additional Resources
• Planning Goals of Growth Management Act (RCW 36.70A.020)
The following goals are adopted to guide the development and adoption of comprehensive plans and development
regulations of those counties and cities that are required or choose to plan under RCW 36.70A.040 and, where
specified, also guide the development of regional policies, plans, and strategies adopted under
RCW 36.70A.210 and chapter 47.80 RCW. The following goals are not listed in order of priority and shall be used
exclusively for the purpose of guiding the development of comprehensive plans, development regulations, and,
where specified, regional plans, policies, and strategies:
(1) Urban growth. Encourage development in urban areas where adequate public facilities and services
exist or can be provided in an efficient manner.
(2) Reduce sprawl. Reduce the inappropriate conversion of undeveloped land into sprawling, low -density
development.
(3) Transportation. Encourage efficient multimodal transportation systems that will reduce greenhouse
gas emissions and per capita vehicle miles traveled, and are based on regional priorities and coordinated with
county and city comprehensive plans.
(4) Housing. Plan for and accommodate housing affordable to all economic segments of the population of
this state, promote a variety of residential densities and housing types, and encourage preservation of existing
housing stock.
(5) Economic development. Encourage economic development throughout the state that is consistent
with adopted comprehensive plans, promote economic opportunity for all citizens of this state, especially for
unemployed and for disadvantaged persons, promote the retention and expansion of existing businesses and
recruitment of new businesses, recognize regional differences impacting economic development opportunities,
and encourage growth in areas experiencing insufficient economic growth, all within the capacities of the state's
natural resources, public services, and public facilities.
(6) Property rights. Private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation having
been made. The property rights of landowners shall be protected from arbitrary and discriminatory actions.
(7) Permits. Applications for both state and local government permits should be processed in a timely and
fair manner to ensure predictability.
(8) Natural resource industries. Maintain and enhance natural resource -based industries, including
productive timber, agricultural, and fisheries industries. Encourage the conservation of productive forestlands and
productive agricultural lands, and discourage incompatible uses.
(9) Open space and recreation. Retain open space and green space, enhance recreational opportunities,
enhance fish and wildlife habitat, increase access to natural resource lands and water, and develop parks and
recreation facilities.
(10) Environment. Protect and enhance the environment and enhance the state's high quality
of life, including air and water quality, and the availability of water.
(11) Citizen participation and coordination. Encourage the involvement of citizens in the planning process,
including the participation of vulnerable populations and overburdened communities, and ensure coordination
between communities and jurisdictions to reconcile conflicts.
(12) Public facilities and services. Ensure that those public facilities and services necessary to support
development shall be adequate to serve the development at the time the development is available for occupancy
and use without decreasing current service levels below locally established minimum standards.
(13) Historic preservation. Identify and encourage the preservation of lands, sites, and structures, that
have historical or archaeological significance.
(14) Climate change and resiliency. Ensure that comprehensive plans, development
regulations, and regional policies, plans, and strategies under RCW 36.70A.210 and chapter 47.80 RCW
adapt to and mitigate the effects of a changing climate; support reductions in greenhouse gas
emissions and per capita vehicle miles traveled; prepare for climate impact scenarios; foster resiliency
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Natural Environment and Shoreline Element Updates - Briefing
November 9, 2023
Page 6 of 7
to climate impacts and natural hazards; protect and enhance environmental, economic, and human
health and safety; and advance environmental justice.
(15) Shorelines of the state. For shorelines of the state, the goals and policies of the shoreline
management act as set forth in RCW 90.58.020 shall be considered an element of the county's or city's
comprehensive plan.
• Comprehensive plans —Mandatory elements. RCW 36.70A.070 (excerpt)
(9)(a) A climate change and resiliency element that is designed to result in reductions in overall
greenhouse gas emissions and that must enhance resiliency to and avoid the adverse impacts of climate change,
which must include efforts to reduce localized greenhouse gas emissions and avoid creating or worsening localized
climate impacts to vulnerable populations and overburdened communities.
(b) The climate change and resiliency element shall include the following subelements:
(i) A greenhouse gas emissions reduction subelement;
(ii) A resiliency subelement.
(c) The greenhouse gas emissions reduction subelement of the climate change and resiliency element is
mandatory for the jurisdictions specified in RCW 36.70A.095 and is encouraged for all other jurisdictions, including
those planning under RCW 36.70A.040 and those planning under chapter 36.70 RCW. The resiliency subelement of
the climate change and resiliency element is mandatory for all jurisdictions planning under RCW 36.70A.040 and is
encouraged for those jurisdictions planning under chapter 36.70 RCW.
(d)(i) The greenhouse gas emissions reduction subelement of the comprehensive plan, and its related
development regulations, must identify the actions the jurisdiction will take during the planning cycle consistent
with the guidelines published by the department pursuant to RCW 70A.45.120 that will:
(A) Result in reductions in overall greenhouse gas emissions generated by transportation and land use
within the jurisdiction but without increasing greenhouse gas emissions elsewhere in the state;
(B) Result in reductions in per capita vehicle miles traveled within the jurisdiction but without increasing
greenhouse gas emissions elsewhere in the state; and
(C) Prioritize reductions that benefit overburdened communities in order to maximize the cobenefits of
reduced air pollution and environmental justice.
(ii) Actions not specifically identified in the guidelines developed by the department pursuant to
RCW 70A.45.120 may be considered consistent with these guidelines only if:
(A) They are projected to achieve greenhouse gas emissions reductions or per capita vehicle miles
traveled reductions equivalent to what would be required of the jurisdiction under the guidelines adopted by the
department; and
(B) They are supported by scientifically credible projections and scenarios that indicate their adoption is
likely to result in reductions of greenhouse gas emissions or per capita vehicle miles traveled.
(iii) A jurisdiction may not restrict population growth or limit population allocation in order to achieve the
requirements set forth in this subsection (9)(d).
(e)(i) The resiliency subelement must equitably enhance resiliency to, and avoid or substantially reduce
the adverse impacts of, climate change in human communities and ecological systems through goals, policies, and
programs consistent with the best available science and scientifically credible climate projections and impact
scenarios that moderate or avoid harm, enhance the resiliency of natural and human systems, and enhance
beneficial opportunities. The resiliency subelement must prioritize actions that benefit overburdened communities
that will disproportionately suffer from compounding environmental impacts and will be most impacted by natural
hazards due to climate change. Specific goals, policies, and programs of the resiliency subelement must include,
but are not limited to, those designed to:
(A) Identify, protect, and enhance natural areas to foster resiliency to climate impacts, as well as areas of
vital habitat for safe passage and species migration;
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INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Natural Environment and Shoreline Element Updates - Briefing
November 9, 2023
Page 7 of 7
(B) Identify, protect, and enhance community resiliency to climate change impacts, including social,
economic, and built environment factors, that support adaptation to climate impacts consistent with
environmental justice; and
(C) Address natural hazards created or aggravated by climate change, including sea level rise, landslides,
flooding, drought, heat, smoke, wildfire, and other effects of changes to temperature and precipitation patterns.
(ii) A natural hazard mitigation plan or similar plan that is guided by RCW 36.70A.020(14), that prioritizes
actions that benefit overburdened communities, and that complies with the applicable requirements of this
chapter, including the requirements set forth in this subsection (9)(e), may be adopted by reference to satisfy
these requirements, except that to the extent any of the substantive requirements of this subsection (9)(e) are not
addressed, or are inadequately addressed, in the referenced natural hazard mitigation plan, a county or city must
supplement the natural hazard mitigation plan accordingly so that the adopted resiliency subelement complies
fully with the substantive requirements of this subsection (9)(e).
(A) If a county or city intends to adopt by reference a federal emergency management agency natural
hazard mitigation plan in order to meet all or part of the substantive requirements set forth in this subsection
(9)(e), and the most recently adopted federal emergency management agency natural hazard mitigation plan does
not comply with the requirements of this subsection (9)(e), the department may grant the county or city an
extension of time in which to submit a natural hazard mitigation plan.
(B) Eligibility for an extension under this subsection prior to July 1, 2027, is limited to a city or county
required to review and, if needed, revise its comprehensive plan on or before June 30, 2025, as provided in
RCW 36.70A.130, or for a city or county with an existing, unexpired federal emergency management agency
natural hazard mitigation plan scheduled to expire before December 31, 2024.
(C) Extension requests after July 1, 2027, may be granted if requirements for the resiliency subelement
are amended or added by the legislature or if the department finds other circumstances that may result in a
potential finding of noncompliance with a jurisdiction's existing and approved federal emergency management
agency natural hazard mitigation plan.
(D) A city or county that wishes to request an extension of time must submit a request in writing to the
department no later than the date on which the city or county is required to review and, if needed, revise its
comprehensive plan as provided in RCW 36.70A.130.
(E) Upon the submission of such a request to the department, the city or county may have an additional
48 months from the date provided in RCW 36.70A.130 in which to either adopt by reference an updated federal
emergency management agency natural hazard mitigation plan or adopt its own natural hazard mitigation plan,
and to then submit that plan to the department.
(F) The adoption of ordinances, amendments to comprehensive plans, amendments to development
regulations, and other nonproject actions taken by a county or city pursuant to (d) of this subsection in order to
implement measures specified by the department pursuant to RCW 70A.45.120 are not subject to administrative
or judicial appeal under chapter 43.21C RCW.
• Regional and County Planning Policies:
https://www.psrc.org/planning-2050/vision-2050
https://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/depts/executive/performance-strategy-budget/regional-planning/cpps
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SHORELINE
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER:
• A discussion of shoreline areas in the City of Tukwila;
• An overview of the Shoreline Management Act and how it applies in Tukwila;
• Goals and Policies for managing development in shoreline areas; and
• A map of Tukwila's adopted Shoreline Environment Designations.
PURPOSE
This element of the City's Comprehensive Plan presents goals and policies related to
development and restoration along the Green/Duwamish River — a shoreline of Statewide
significance subject to the Washington State Shoreline Management Act (SMA) — which flows
northerly through the entire length of Tukwila. A small fragment of the Black River flows into
the Duwamish River just north of Fort Dent Park and is also subject to the SMA and the goals
and policies of this chapter.
The Shoreline Element of the Comprehensive Plan represents the Shoreline Master Program's
role in the community -wide planning process. It reflects the relationship between shoreline
development and other Comprehensive Plan goals and policies, and the importance of a
shoreline vision to a community vision. The Shoreline Element identifies existing local and
regional policies, land use and shoreline conditions, and sets forth shoreline goals and the
policies for achieving them. These goals and policies reflect Tukwila's priorities in these areas:
• Facilitating redevelopment and prioritizing water -dependent industrial uses in the
Manufacturing/Industrial Center (MIC) and encouraging redevelopment in the Tukwila
Urban Center (TUC) that recognizes the river as a valuable resource.
• Ensuring the safety of new development from flooding and from destabilized riverbanks
by establishing setbacks for new construction. Setbacks will allow for eventual
replacement of existing flood control levees and regrading of over -steepened banks.
• Increasing public access to the river.
• Supporting restoration of habitat along the river through a restoration plan in the
Shoreline Master Program. Restoration is accomplished, in part, through removing
invasive vegetation and replacing it with native species, constructing off -channel
habitat, and setting back levees to incorporate a mid -slope bench that can be planted to
improve habitat.
Shoreline policies encourage high -quality development and redevelopment along the river. At
the same time, they recognize the value of the Green/Duwamish River as an aesthetic resource
by encouraging new development in the urban center to "face" the river, providing views and
public or private access to the shoreline. The policies also recognize the shoreline as an
important natural resource that requires protection and restoration of shoreline ecological
functions (such as habitat, surface water and flood attenuation, water quality improvement and
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SHORELINE
Page 2 of 23
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
others). Policies in the Master Program support restoration of shoreline ecological functions,
particularly improved habitat for endangered fish species (Chinook salmon and Pacific Bull
Trout).
As a whole, the Tukwila Shoreline Master Program acts as the implementation mechanism for
achieving these goals and policies.
WHAT IS THE SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT?
The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) was approved by Washington voters in 1972 and is
designed to prevent degradation of the State's shorelines from uncoordinated development.
WHERE DOES THE SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT APPLY?
Each city and county defines their own shoreline jurisdiction based on the provisions of the
SMA and regulations from the Department of Ecology. The SMA applies to the following areas:
• Marine waters,
• Streams and rivers that have an average annual flow of at least 20 cubic feet per second,
• Upland areas within 200 feet of regulated waterbodies, and
• Wetlands and flood -prone areas associated with regulated waterbodies.
Additional information regarding the Shoreline Management Act is available on the Department
of Ecology's website at: https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/shoreline-coastal-
management/shoreline-coastal-planning/shoreline-management-act-sma
ISSUES
Department of Ecology guidelines, along with the City's obligations as a participant in the
implementation of the Green/Duwamish Salmon Habitat Plan, dictate that Shoreline Master
Program policies and regulations be established to ensure restoration and no net loss of
shoreline ecological functions. The major issue facing the City is balancing the existing and
planned future urban development along the river with these requirements.
The Shoreline Management Act promotes increased recreational opportunities and public
access to the shoreline environment.
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SHORELINE
Page 3 of 23
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT PRIORITIES
The SMA designates the Green/Duwamish River as a shoreline of Statewide significance.
"Because these shorelines are major resources from which all people in the State derive
benefit, the [development] guidelines and master programs must give preference to uses which
favor public and long-range goals." 1[WAC 173-16-040(5)2] The SMA states that master
programs for shorelines of Statewide significance shall give preference to uses that (in order of
preference):
1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local interest.
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline.
3. Result in long-term over short-term benefit.
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shoreline.
5. Increase public access to publicly -owned areas of the shoreline.
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the shoreline.
7. Provide for any other element, as defined in RCW 90.58.100, deemed appropriate or
necessary (that is, that further the State's shoreline policies).3
The Washington State Shoreline Management Act requires that, where alterations in the
natural condition of a shoreline are authorized, priority shall be given to the following uses:
• Single-family residences
• Ports
• Shoreline recreational uses
• Industrial and commercial developments dependent upon a shoreline location
• Other developments that will provide an opportunity for a substantial number of people
to enjoy the shoreline.
The policies established in the Tukwila Shoreline Master Program attempt to balance the river's
value as a long-term natural resource for the region with the demands of intense urban
development. The City's Shoreline Master Program also recognizes that, except for the area
north of the Turning Basin, most of the Green River is not navigable by large commercial vessels
and therefore opportunities to establish water -dependent uses are limited. There has been
interest in providing nonmotorized water access for both recreational use and official city use
(e.g., police and fire having a place to launch a motorboat).
1 DOE: Need to find this language in act or replace
2 DOE: Doesn't exist?
3 RCW 90.58.020.
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GOALS, POLICIES AND STRATEGIES
In 2020, Tukwila's updated its Shoreline Master Program, incorporated by reference as part of
this Plan. The goals and policies of this plan have been revised to be consistent with the
revisions made in the 2020 update of the City's SMP.
Tukwila shoreline policies give priority to the economic vitality of the City's two regional growth
centers — the Manufacturing Industrial Center (MIC), and focus intense multi -purpose urban
uses — such as water -enjoyment commercial activity and public access — in the Tukwila Urban
Center. The policies also emphasize the importance of a variety of shoreline public access
methods, both physical and visual, linked to other areas of the region. They recognize the value
of the river as a natural resource by encouraging restoration — including removal of invasive
plants — of wildlife habitat and native riverbank vegetation, including tree planting.
➢ Shoreline Environment Designations
The two -hundred -foot shoreline jurisdiction that comprises each shoreline environment is
divided lengthwise into a shoreline -adjacent buffer and outside -buffer area and specifies
allowed uses for each environment. The shoreline environments are intended to facilitate the
City's long-range objectives for land and shoreline management, including:
• Ensuring no net loss of ecological shoreline functions;
• Providing for habitat protection enhancement and restoration, to improve shoreline
ecological functions degraded over time and protection of already -restored areas;
• Allowing continued and increased urban development in recognition of Tukwila's role as
a regionally -significant industrial and commercial center; and
• Providing for improved flood control, in coordination with King County and the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers.
The Shoreline Master Program provides more information on buffer size and function. The
adopted buffers for each shoreline environment balance shoreline ecological function, human
life and property protection (including future levee repair/ reconstruction), existing land use
patterns, and State and federal agency policies.
Figure 5-1: Shoreline Management Act Jurisdiction
See image in draft
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GOAL 1 Shoreline Environment designations that meet Washington State Shoreline
Management Act requirements and reflect local conditions and Tukwila's long-
term vision for its shoreline. The shoreline zone generally extends for 200 feet
on either side of the Ordinary High Water mark, consistent with the Washington
State Shoreline Management Act (as illustrated in Figure 5-1).
POLICIES
Shoreline Residential
Policy 1.1
In the Shoreline Residential Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
■ Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the shoreline, or
promote preservation of vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area
lands;
■ Development that is compatible with the natural and biological limitations of
the land and water and that will not require extensive alteration of the
shoreline or new "hard" structural shoreline stabilization. Where possible,
the removal of bulkheads, revetments, levees or other "hard" structural
shoreline stabilization is required. Hard structural shoreline stabilization may
be replaced with alternative bioengineered bank stabilization;
■ On publicly -owned property, water -dependent or water -related recreational
activities that are compatible with the character of the shoreline residential
areas;
■ Maintenance of existing single-family residential development patterns and
public open space and recreation uses;
■ Residential and recreational development that promotes vegetation
conservation and enhancement, sensitive areas protection, and maintenance
of water quality to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological functions; and
■ Residential and recreational development that contributes to the restoration
of ecological functions in areas where ecological degradation has occurred
over time.
Urban Conservancy Environment
Policy 1.2 In the Urban Conservancy Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
■ Development that promotes vegetation conservation and enhancement,
sensitive areas protection, and preservation of water quality to assure no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions;
■ Water enjoyment uses;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a shoreline -
dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize flood damage;
■ Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions provided by
vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area lands;
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■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control, consider
impacts to public views, and allow for the safe, unobstructed passage of fish
and wildlife, particularly those species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever feasible and
when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
■ Development that is compatible with the natural and biological limitations of
the land and water that do not require extensive alteration of the shoreline
or new shoreline stabilization, except for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of commercial and
industrial activities where shoreline impacts are minimized and where there
is no net loss of shoreline functions.
Hiqh-intensity Shoreline Environment
Policy 1.3 In the High -Intensity Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
■ Water -dependent commercial and industrial uses;
■ Development that promotes vegetation conservation and enhancement,
sensitive areas protection and preservation of water quality, to assure no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a shoreline -
dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize flood damage;
■ Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions provided by
vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area lands;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control, consider
impacts to public views, and allow for the safe, unobstructed passage of fish
and wildlife, particularly those species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever feasible and
when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
■ Development compatible with the natural and biological limitations of the
land and water that does not require extensive alteration of the shoreline or
new shoreline stabilization, except for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of intensive
commercial and industrial activities, where shoreline impacts are minimized
and where there is no net loss of shoreline functions.
Shoreline Environments
Map 5-1: Shoreline Environment Designations
Shoreline Aquatic Environment
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Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 1.4 In the Shoreline Aquatic Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
■ Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the shoreline or
promote preservation of vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area
lands;
■ Water -dependent uses;
■ Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a shoreline -
dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize flood damage;
■ Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control, consider
impacts to public views, and allow for the safe, unobstructed passage of fish
and wildlife, particularly those species dependent on migration;
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever feasible and
when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
■ Development compatible with the natural and biological limitations of the
land and water, that does not require extensive alteration of the shoreline or
new shoreline stabilization, except for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Uses compatible with the adjoining shoreline environments.
Photo
The Aquatic Environment applies to areas below the ordinary High Water Mark of a lake,
stream or marine water body.
➢ Shoreline Planning and Management
Tukwila is located in the lower reach of the Green/Duwamish River watershed, which covers
482 square miles and includes over 93 river miles from the Cascade Mountains to Elliott Bay.
The City's portion of the river covers approximately 13 river miles; as a result, the City's
Shoreline Master Program recognizes that — to be successful — protection and enhancement of
shoreline resources is not only a City responsibility but also a regional one. The City is a
member of the Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9, which covers the Green/Duwamish
River watershed, and has adopted the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan that identifies specific
actions and restoration projects to improve salmon habitat.
GOAL 2 Expanded value of the river as a community and regional resource, through
regional coordination of shoreline management programs and through
programs that foster river appreciation and awareness, involving partnerships
among businesses, schools, residents and government and community
organizations.
POLICIES
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Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 2.1
Policy 2.2
Policy 2.3
Coordinate shoreline planning and management activities with other local
jurisdictions and their plans — such as the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan and the
King County Flood Hazard Management Plan — to establish region -wide
consistency in addressing river issues with regional implications, such as
economic development, public access, wildlife habitat, water quality control and
flood control.
Promote river stewardship and increase river awareness through actions which
further shoreline goals, such as educational programs, community activities and
partnerships with Tukwila residents, businesses, schools, government, and
community organizations.
Promote and participate in the implementation of the Watershed Resource
Inventory Area (WRIA) 9 Plan, including supporting the recommended projects
located in Tukwila to improve the habitat functions of the Green/Duwamish
River, as well as the Plan's policies and goals.
➢ Land Development Use and Economic Vitality
An objective of the City's Shoreline Master Program, identified in the Issue section of this
chapter, is to allow continued and increased urban development in recognition of the City's role
as a regionally- significant industrial and commercial center, while also ensuring no net loss of
shoreline ecological functions. The following policies address these objectives.
GOAL 3 Development along the shoreline that fosters the economic vitality of Tukwila
while preserving the long-term benefits of the river.
General Policies
Policy 3.1 Implement shoreline design guidelines to:
■ Encourage design that views the river as an amenity;
■ Guide the design of shoreline multiple uses;
■ Establish techniques for increasing shoreline multiple use;
■ Prioritize locations for uses; and
■ Encourage removal of invasive species with nonchemical methods and
maintenance of native planted vegetation to minimize the presence of
invasive species.
Policy 3.2
Design and locate all shoreline development to minimize impacts on areas
identified as important for other river uses, such as wildlife and aquatic habitat,
river vegetation, public access and recreation, historical resources, and flood
control.
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Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 3.3
Policy 3.4
Policy 3.5
When no other feasible alternative exists, allow structures for water dependent
uses to be placed in the water, or structural reinforcement of the riverbank, only
when this provides a significant, long-term public benefit, does not interfere with
navigation or flood management, does not cause a loss of shoreline function or is
essential to a water -dependent use.4
Prohibit the construction of new flood control facilities unless constructed to
incorporate habitat restoration features, and work to remove existing shoreline
armoring — where possible — to restore habitat functions.
Recognize and promote the river's contribution to the economic vitality of
Tukwila, as a valuable amenity for existing and future businesses which depend
on or benefit from a shoreline location.
Policy 3.6 Ensure that shoreline development does not diminish the commercial
navigability of the river.
Tukwila Urban Center Development
Policy 3.7 Design and locate shoreline development in the Tukwila Urban Center to
encourage water enjoyment uses that:
■ Provide for shoreline multiple uses consistent with the underlying zoning;
■ Provide additional benefits, such as riverbank restoration, fishing piers, non -
motorized boat launches, river views, or interpretive signs;
■ Support public access to and along the shoreline;
■ Provide water -enjoyment uses as a transition between the river and non -
water uses;
■ Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as clustering, mixed -
use projects, cooperative parking or parking located under principal
structures, and shared utility and access corridors; and
■ Ensure that new development and re -development in the Urban Center
acknowledges the goal of a continuous street facade along Christensen Road
and the riverfront, and locates parking facilities to the interior of the lot.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)5
Manufacturing Industrial Center Development
Policy 3.8 Ensure that non -water dependent shoreline development in the MIC provides
for shoreline multiple uses to the extent that site security and the success of
4 Replaced Tukwila language with more specific language in adopted SMP
5 These were listed below - they have been moved to a better location
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 3.9
industrial operations are not jeopardized; ensures no net loss of shoreline
function and provides adequate mitigation for the loss of shoreline multiple use
opportunities.
Allow opportunities for commercial and recreational marinas to locate in Tukwila
downstream of the turning basin, where compatible with existing and future
navigability and existing and future ecological restoration projects.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)
Development Outside the Tukwila Urban Center or Manufacturing Industrial Center
Policy 3.10
Design and locate shoreline development outside of the Tukwila Urban Center
and the MIC to:
■ Provide for shoreline multiple uses;
■ Provide water -enjoyment uses as transitions between the river and non-
water- dependent uses;
■ Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as clustering, mixed -
use projects, cooperative parking or parking located under principal
structures, and shared utility and access corridors; and
■ Treat the river as an amenity in the design and location of the project.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)
➢ Private Property Rights
GOAL 4 Protect rights of property owners to reasonable use and enjoyment of private
property through appropriate location, access to, and design of shoreline uses.
POLICIES
Policy 4.1
Policy 4.2
Policy 4.3
Design, locate and manage shoreline uses in a manner that maintains reasonable
use and enjoyment of private property.
Design and locate public access in a way that is appropriate for the site,
depending on site conditions and private property concerns.
Special sensitivity is required for residential property; therefore, all single-family
residential development of four or fewer single-family residential lots is excluded
from requirements to provide private or public access. Single-family property
owners are not exempt from the responsibility to improve the habitat value of
the shoreline environment.
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 4.4
Policy 4.5
Maintain flexibility in methods of obtaining access, to allow for different site
conditions and private property concerns that might conflict with access, such as
privacy, safety and security.
Obtain additional easement area to permit the improvement of river habitat, by
setting back levees or removing revetments and other hard shoreline armoring,
and replacing with more habitat -friendly shoreline treatment.
➢ Shoreline Design Quality
GOAL 5 Enhanced identity of the river as a unique community asset through high -
quality development and public activities that reflect Tukwila's history and
sense of community pride.
POLICIES
Policy 5.1
Policy 5.2
Photo
Require that shoreline development outside of the MIC:
■ Ensures no net loss of shoreline function;
■ Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila river design guidelines;
■ Reflects principles of high -quality design in such areas as site planning,
architecture and landscaping; and
■ Includes setbacks, bulk, height, density, landscape buffers and provisions for
open space that enhance the shoreline environment.
Require that shoreline development in the MIC:
■ Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila shoreline design guidelines;
■ Maintains or enhances the existing visual quality along the river;
■ Provides trees and other landscaping to buffer industrial uses that are
incompatible with other river uses; and
■ Provides amenities that enhance enjoyment of the river by employees.
Tukwila's Manufacturing/Industrial Center is an important regional industrial center
located along the Duwamish River.
➢ Access and Recreational Use
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Public access to shorelines of the State is one of the key goals of the Shoreline Management
Act; of the seven uses identified in RCW 90.58.020 as having preference in the shoreline, two
relate to public access and recreation.
In addition to the Green River Trail, which runs along much of the length of the river through
the City, Tukwila is fortunate to have a number of other public access sites along the river. The
following goals and policies support preserving existing public access sites and providing
additional public access to the river. To support implementation of these goals and policies, the
City's development regulations include incentives for private development projects to provide
public access to the shoreline.
GOAL 6 Increase the amount and diversity of opportunities for public recreation and
access to and along the river, including visual and cultural access, access to the
water's edge, opportunities for small boat navigation and access, and
connections to other neighborhoods consistent with the shoreline character.
General Policies
Policy 6.1
Retain and improve areas identified as important in the network of public access
to the river, including cross-town connections, former railroad rights -of -way and
unimproved street -end rights -of -way, historic sites, unique natural features, or
other areas valuable for their interpretive potential.
Policy 6.2 Maintain existing parks along the shoreline and acquire additional park land to
increase access and recreation opportunities.
Policy 6.3 Incorporate river access requirements to guide the design, location, and
management of shoreline public access in all subdivisions and short plats over
four lots, as well as multi -family, commercial, and industrial development; to
identify types of access appropriate and feasible for various site conditions and
locations; and to establish strategies, funding sources and priorities for
acquisition and enhancement of shoreline public access.
Photo
Shoreline rails provide important public access opportunities for Tukwila residents.
Policy 6.4
Design, locate and manage public access for diverse types and variable levels of
intensity, in order to minimize impacts on vulnerable features of the natural
environment and to minimize conflicts with private property uses.
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 6.5
Policy 6.6
Where shoreline development provides public access areas, reserve such areas
through the means most appropriate for the type, scale and impacts of the
development, such as donation or sale of an easement or right-of-way to the
City.
Support the implementation of the King County Green River Trail — per the
existing King County Green River Trail Master Plan — as well as pedestrian/bicycle
connections with the Trail from properties on the opposite bank and the
expansion of this Trail, where appropriate.
Policies For Development Outside Manufacturing Industrial Center
Policy 6.7 Require subdivisions, multifamily residential uses, and commercial and industrial
uses along the shoreline to provide a trail for public access along the river, in
areas identified for trail connections consistent with the King County Green River
Trail Master Plan, Shoreline Master Program, or any other approved access plan.
Require any property not included in the King County Green River Trail Plan to
provide public access or a private natural area in lieu of physical public access.'
Policy 6.8
Policy 6.9
Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is designed to be safe
and convenient and includes access amenities such as benches, drinking
fountains, public parking areas, handicapped access and appropriate lighting,
consistent with the shoreline access guidelines.
Except for single-family residential development of four or fewer single-family
residential lots, shoreline developments shall maintain views of the water from
the shoreline and from upland areas, through appropriate design of building
height, bulk and modulation, windows, breezeways, and outdoor spaces.
Policy 6.10 Public access improvements should be designed and constructed to:
■ Look and "feel" welcoming to the public.
■ Connect to public areas, street ends, and other pedestrian or public
thoroughfares.
■ Enhance the character of Tukwila.
■ Avoid conflicts with water -dependent uses.
■ Provide for public safety and minimize impacts to private property and
individual privacy and security.
■ Require a low level of operation and maintenance.
6 Not included in state -adopted SMP
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
■ Ensure that construction (i.e., structures and access pathways) incorporates
environmentally -sensitive design and materials (e.g., non -toxic, natural
materials).
Policy 6.11 Improve pedestrian connections between the river, Green River Trail and the
Urban Center's commercial, office, and residential uses.
Policies for Development in Manufacturing Industrial Center
Policy 6.12 For MIC properties included in the King County Green River Trail Master Plan,
require shoreline development to provide a trail for public access along the river.
Policy 6.13
Policy 6.14
Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is designed to be safe
and convenient, and includes access amenities such as benches, drinking
fountains, public parking areas, handicapped access, and appropriate lighting,
consistent with the shoreline access guidelines.
For MIC properties not included in the King County Green River Trail Plan,
require shoreline development to provide public access or a private natural area
in lieu of public access, or otherwise mitigate the loss of public access.
Transportation Within the Shoreline Zone
GOAL 7 Safe corridors and amenities for pedestrians, cyclists, and users of public
transportation, allowing more citizens to access and enjoy the river.
POLICIES
Policy 7.1
Policy 7.2
Design and locate transportation uses within the shoreline jurisdiction to be
compatible with shoreline vegetation or other habitat features, turn -outs or
parking areas for public access, boat ramps, biofiltration swales to protect water
quality, public art, or interpretive signs.
Ensure that transportation uses within the shoreline jurisdiction and within
those corridors identified as river cross -connections provide safe, convenient
and attractive pedestrian, bicycle, and boater access and facilities for public
transportation.
Policy 7.3 Minimize transportation impacts on the natural environment (such as noises,
odors, and air or water pollution), and enhance the natural environment
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 7.4
wherever possible through low impact development, green stormwater
infrastructure, planting trees, and other habitat features.
Encourage maintenance of the river's navigability up to the turning basin
where this achieves a greater public interest and a balance between costs and
benefits to the broader community, and impacts to the habitat functions of the
river — in recognition of the historical significance of navigation and its
importance to the economic vitality of water -dependent uses and the MIC.
Historical Resource Use
GOAL 8 Recognition of the river's contribution to Tukwila history and community
identity through identification, enhancement, restoration and protection of
sites with historic and cultural value, and through development of interpretive
and educational programs.
POLICIES
Policy 8.1
Policy 8.2
Policy 8.3
Ensure that shoreline development reflects the river's important role in Tukwila
history, and that long-term public use of the river as a historical resource is
protected by providing for the identification, protection and interpretation of
unique historic and archaeological features.
Ensure that public shoreline development reflects the river's natural features
and community traditions.
Ensure that archaeological artifacts and sites are protected when development
takes place in the shoreline jurisdiction.
Natural Environment and Habitat Use
The Green/Duwamish River has undergone extensive modifications in the past, to r8educe
channel migration and limit the extent and duration of valley flooding by constructing levees
and revetments. These modifications to the river system have negatively impacted ecological
functions, including hydrology, water quality, riparian habitat and in -stream habitat. River flows
have been modified by dam construction, stream diversion, and urban development. River
7 DOE: Question for DOE about this — navigability extends beyond this location in non -motorized boats
8 Evaluate with DOE
Heidi Watters
Add here and/or in Environment. WQ of the River
does start with tributaries, so want It mentioned
both places.
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
management and levees have reduced the connection between the rivers and their floodplains,
changing the spatial extent of habitat, and increasing the potential for negative water quality
impacts. Disturbances to the channel banks have resulted in areas that are dominated by non-
native invasive species. Wood, in the form of riparian trees and in -channel wood, is generally
lacking throughout the system, which has a negative impact on riparian and aquatic habitats.
The following goals and policies seek to improve the ecological function of the river system.
Photo
Aerial view of North Winds Weir Off -Channel Habitat (photo courtesy of WR1A9)
GOAL 9 Restored, enhanced, and protected natural environmental resources along the
river, including trees, wildlife habitat, and features with value for long-term
public, scientific and educational uses.
POLICIES
Policy 9.1
Policy 9.2
Policy 9.3
Policy 9.4
Ensure that shoreline development results in no net loss of shoreline ecological
function and minimizes impacts on wildlife, and that significant vegetation,
sandbars, wetlands, watercourses and other critical areas identified as important
for habitat are maintained through the proper location, design, construction, and
management of all shoreline uses and activities.
Ensure that shoreline development and activities protect riverbank vegetation
and, where feasible, restore degraded riverbanks in accordance with the
vegetation management provisions of the Shoreline Master Program, in order to
minimize and compensate for impacts on fish and wildlife habitat.
Mitigate unavoidable disturbances of significant vegetation or habitat through
replacement of habitat and provision of interpretive features consistent with the
shoreline access guidelines.
Support relief from certain Shoreline Master Program requirements for
properties affected by habitat restoration projects that result in the movement
of the ordinary high water mark.
Policy 9.5 Support establishing the Transition Zone — given its importance for subtidal and
intertidal habitats — as the priority area for habitat restoration projects, to allow
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
salmonids to gradually adjust to the change between fresh and saltwater
conditions.9
Water Quality, Surface Water, and Flood Control Use
A system of levees and revetments have been constructed along a major portion of the river in
Tukwila. The City has adopted a minimum levee profile to promote river bank stability, protect
structures, and enhance shoreline ecological functions. The minimum levee profile incorporates
a mid -slope bench that provides a wider river channel to accommodate higher flows during
storm events, and that allows planting of native vegetation to improve habitat functions. The
vegetation on the mid -slope bench will also reduce the speed of water flows during storm
events.
POLICIES
Policy 10.1
Policy 10.2
Policy 10.3
Policy 10.4
Design, locate and manage shoreline development including streets, flood
control projects, surface water drainage and sewer systems, clearing and grading
activities, and landscaping in a manner that minimizes opportunities for
pollutants to enter the river, provides erosion control, and otherwise protects
water quality.
Design, manage and mitigate flood control uses to minimize impacts on other
shoreline uses such as trees and riverbank vegetation, public access and
recreation, and fish habitat; and set them back from the river, where feasible for
the project, with land areas between the water and the levee set aside as open
space for public recreation or wildlife habitat.
Consistent with project feasibility, mitigate unavoidable negative impacts on
other shoreline uses owing to flood control uses through such measures as
restoration of trees and native riverbank vegetation, provision of public access to
the water's edge, interpretive features, or other mitigation of loss of
opportunities for shoreline multiple uses.
Obtain additional easements, where needed, from property owners to set back
levees to improve flood control and shoreline habitat functions. Where possible,
as redevelopment occurs, replace bulkheads, revetments or other hard bank
9 DOE Not exactly what is in adopted SMP, but better language... DOE adopted: Support establishing the Transition
Zone as the priority area for habitat restoration projects given its importance for subtidal and intertidal habitats to allow
salmonids to gradually adjust to the change between fresh and saltwater conditions
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Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
stabilization with more natural levees, riverbanks, or other shoreline treatments,
to improve flood control, ecological functions and habitat.
Figure 5-2: Proposed profile for reconfigured levees
Public Health, Safety and Welfare
GOAL 11
Policy 11.1
Shoreline uses that do not endanger public health, safety and welfare, or the
capacity of the river to provide long-term benefits and resources to the
community.10
Design, locate and manage shoreline uses, such as capital improvement projects
and private development, in a manner that does not endanger public health,
safety and welfare, and enhances the capacity of the river to provide long-term
benefits and resources to the community.
Shoreline Use Preferences'
Goal 12:
Tukwila, in developing and implementing its shoreline master program for shorelines
of statewide significance, including the Green/Duwamish River, shall give preference
to uses in the following order of preference thatwhich:
1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local interest;
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline;
3. Result in long term over short term benefit;
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shorelines;
5. Increase public access to publicly owned areas of the shorelines;
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the shoreline;
8. Provide for any other element as defined in RCW 90.58.100 deemed appropriate
or necessary.
10 DOE: In adopted SMP
11 DOE: In adopted SMP; omitted from Tukwila SMP
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RELATED INFORMATION
Shoreline Master Program
Washington State Shoreline Management Act
Washington State Department of Ecology — Shoreline Information
Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9: Green/Duwamish Salmon Habitat Restoration Plan
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Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Implementation Strategies12
The time frames for Implementation Strategies are as follows:
• Near Term: 2025 to 2029
• Mid Term: 2030 to 2034
• Log Term: 2035 to 2039
• Ongoing
Policy #
Goal 2
Strategy #
Implementation Strategies - Shoreline Planning
Responsible for
Implementation
and Management
Time
Frame
Reference
Heading (2015
Update)
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan
Tukwila SMP Restoration Plan
King County Flood Hazard
Management Plan
Goal 3
Land Development Use and Economic Vitality
3.7
3.7.1
Shoreline Design Guidelines
3.7
3.7.2
Development Standards
3.7
3.7.3
Tukwila Urban Center Plan
Goal 4
Private Property Rights
4.1, 4.2
River design guidelines
4.1, 4.2
River access guidelines
4.1, 4.2
Shoreline development
standards
4.3, 4.4,
4.5
Shoreline design guidelines
Goal 5
Shoreline Design Quality
5.1
Shoreline design guidelines
5.1
Shoreline development
standards
5.1
Tukwila Urban Center Plan
5.2
5.2.1
Shoreline design guidelines
5.2
5.2.2
Shoreline development
standards
12 DOE: These "implementation strategies" are pretty useless, compared to what is expected from lmpl. Strats regionally.
32
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy #
Strategy #
Responsible for
Implementation
Time Reference
Frame Heading (2015
Update)
Goal 6
Access and Recreational Use
6.1 to 6.3
Shoreline design guidelines
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Shoreline public access
guidelines
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Shoreline development
standards
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Walk and Roll Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Parks and Open Space Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.7 & 6.8
'
King County Green River Trail
Master Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.7 & 6.8
Shoreline public access
standards
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.7 & 6.8
Walk and Roll Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.7 & 6.8
Parks and Open Space Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.9
Shoreline design guidelines
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.12-6.14
Shoreline design guidelines
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
33
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy #
Strategy #
Responsible for
Implementation
Time
Frame
Reference
Heading (2015
Update)
6.12-6.14
Shoreline access guidelines
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
6.12-6.14
Walk and Roll Plan
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
6.12-6.14
Parks and Open Space Plan
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
Goal 10
Water Quality, Surface Water, and Flood Control Use
10.1-10.4
Increase levee setback to
incorporate flatter, more
stable slope and vegetated
mid -slope benches 13
10.1-10.4
Shoreline access guidelines
10.1-10.4
Surface Water
Management Plan
10.1-10.4
WRIA 9 Plan water quality
policies
10.1-10.4
Shoreline Restoration
PIan14
13 DOE: This was omitted from Tukwila's list of implementation strategies, but appears in adopted SMP
14 DOE: In adopted SMP, but not in Tukwila Element
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Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
35
36
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER:
• A discussion of shoreline areas in the City of Tukwila;
• An overview of the Shoreline Management Act and how it applies in Tukwila;
• Goals and Policies for managing development in shoreline areas; and
• A map of Tukwila's adopted Shoreline Environment Designations.
PURPOSE
This element of the City's Comprehensive Plan presents goals and policies related to
development and restoration along the Green/Duwamish River — a shoreline of Statewide
significance subject to the Washington State Shoreline Management Act (SMA) — which flows
northerly through the entire length of Tukwila. A small fragment of the Black River flows into
the Duwamish River just north of Fort Dent Park and is also subject to the SMA and the goals
and policies of this chapter.
The Shoreline Element of the Comprehensive Plan represents the Shoreline Master Program's
role in the community -wide planning process. It reflects the relationship between shoreline
development and other Comprehensive Plan goals and policies, and the importance of a
shoreline vision to a community vision. The Shoreline Element identifies existing local and
regional policies, land use and shoreline conditions, and sets forth shoreline goals and the
policies for achieving them. These goals and policies reflect Tukwila's priorities in these areas:
• Facilitating redevelopment and prioritizing water -dependent industrial uses in the
Manufacturing/Industrial Center (MIC), and) and encouraging redevelopment in the
Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) that recognizes the river as a valuable resource.
• Ensuring the safety of new development from flooding and from destabilized riverbanks
by establishing setbacks for new construction. Setbacks will allow for eventual
replacement of existing flood control levees and regrading of over -steepened banks.
• Increasing public access to the river.
• Supporting restoration of habitat along the river through a restoration plan in the
Shoreline Master Program. Restoration is accomplished, in part, through removing
invasive vegetation and replacing it with native species, constructing off -channel
habitat, and setting back levees to incorporate a mid -slope bench that can be planted to
improve habitat.
Shoreline policies encourage high -quality development and redevelopment along the river. At
the same time, they recognize the value of the Green/Duwamish River as an aesthetic resource
by encouraging new development in the urban center to "face" the river, providing views and
public or private access to the shoreline. The policies also recognize the shoreline as an
important natural resource that requires protection and restoration of shoreline ecological
functions (such as habitat, surface water and flood attenuation, water quality improvement and
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Chapter§X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
others). _Policies in the Master Program support restoration of shoreline ecological functions,
particularly improved habitat for endangered fish species (Chinook salmon and Pacific Bull
Trout).
As a whole, the Tukwila Shoreline Master Program acts as the implementation mechanism for
achieving these goals and policies.
WHAT IS THE SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT?
The Shoreline Management Act (SMA) was approved by Washington voters in 1972 and is
designed to prevent degradation of the State's shorelines from uncoordinated development.
WHERE DOES THE SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT APPLY?
Each city and county defines their own shoreline jurisdiction based on the provisions of the
SMA and regulations from the Department of Ecology. The SMA applies to the following areas:
• Marine waters,
• Streams and rivers that have an average annual flow of at least 20 cubic feet per second,
• Upland areas within 200 feet of regulated waterbodies, and
• Wetlands and flood -prone areas associated with regulated waterbodies.
Additional information regarding the Shoreline Management Act is available on the Department
of Ecology's website at: https://ecology.wa.gov/water-shorelines/shoreline-coastal-
management/shoreline-coastal-planning/shoreline-management-act-sma
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/s o/ shorclincs/smp/indcx.html
ISSUES
Department of Ecology guidelines, along with the City's obligations as a participant in the
implementation of the Green/Duwamish Salmon Habitat Restoration Plan, dictate that
Shoreline Master Program policies and regulations be established to ensure restoration and no
net loss of shoreline ecological functions. The major issue facing the City is balancing the
existing and planned future urban development along the river with these requirements.
The Shoreline Management Act promotes increased recreational opportunities and public
access to the shoreline environment.
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
SHORELINE MANAGEMENT ACT PRIORITIES
The SMA designates the Green/Duwamish River as a shoreline of Statewide significance.
"Because these shorelines are major resources from which all people in the State derive
benefit, the [development] guidelines and master programs must give preference to uses which
favor public and long-range goals." 1[WAC 173-16-040(5)2] _The SMA states that master
programs for shorelines of Statewide significance shall give preference to uses that (in order of
preference):
1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local interest.
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline.
3. Result in long-term over short-term benefit.
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shoreline.
5. Increase public access to publicly -owned areas of the shoreline.
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the shoreline.
7. Provide for any other element, as defined in RCW 90.58.100, deemed appropriate or
necessary (that is, which that further the State's shoreline policies).3
The Washington State Shoreline Management Act requires that, where alterations in the
natural condition of a shoreline are authorized, priority shall be given to the following uses:
• Single-family residences
• Ports
• Shoreline recreational uses
• Industrial and commercial developments dependent upon a shoreline location
• Other developments that will provide an opportunity for a substantial number of people
to enjoy the shoreline.
The policies established in the Tukwila Shoreline Master Program attempt to balance the river's
value as a long-term natural resource for the region with the demands of intense urban
development. The City's Shoreline Master Program also recognizes that, except for the area
north of the Turning Basin, most of the Green River is not navigable by large commercial vessels
and therefore opportunities to establish water -dependent uses are limited. There has been
interest in providing nonmotorized water access for both recreational use and official city use
(e.g., police and fire having a place to launch a motorboat).
1 DOE: Need to find this language in act or replace
2 DOE: Doesn't exist?
3 RCW 90.58.020.
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOALS, POLICIES AND STRATEGIES
In 2020, Tukwila's updated its 2011 approved Shoreline Master Program, which is incorporated
by reference as part of this Plan. The goals and policies of this plan have been —revised to be
consistent with the revisions made in the 2020 update of the City's SMP. some of the 1995
Comprehensive Plan goals and policies and added new oncs to address new issues, changed
conditions along the river, or new requirements established by the Washington State
Department of Ecology.
Tukwila shoreline policies give priority to the economic vitality of the City's two regional growth
centers — the Manufacturing Industrial Center (MIC), and focus intense multi --purpose
urban uses — such as water -enjoyment commercial activity and public access — in the Tukwila
Urban Center. The policies also emphasize the importance of a variety of shoreline public
access methods, both physical and visual, linked to other areas of the region. They recognize
the value of the river as a natural resource by encouraging restoration — including removal of
invasive plants — of wildlife habitat and native riverbank vegetation, including tree planting.
Shoreline Environment Designations
The two -hundred -foot shoreline jurisdiction that comprises each shoreline environment is
divided lengthwise into a shoreline -adjacent buffer and outside -buffer area; and specifies
allowed uses are specified for each environment. The shoreline environments are intended to
facilitate the City's long-range objectives for land and shoreline management, including:
• Ensuring no net loss of ecological shoreline functions;
• Providing for habitat protection enhancement and restoration, to improve shoreline
ecological functions degraded over time and protection of already -restored areas;
• Allowing continued and increased urban development in recognition of Tukwila's role as
a regionally -significant industrial and commercial center; and
• Providing for improved flood control, in coordination with King County and the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers.
The Shoreline Master Program provides more information on buffer size and function. The
adopted buffers for each shoreline environment balance shoreline ecological function, human
life
and property protection (including future levee repair/ reconstruction), existing land use
patterns, and State and federal agency policies.
Figure 5-1: Shoreline Management Act Jurisdiction
See image in draft
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Chapter§X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOALS 1
Shoreline Environment designations that meet Washington State Shoreline Management Act
requirements, -_and reflect local conditions and Tukwila's long-term vision for its
shoreline.
The shoreline zone generally extends for 200 feet on either side of the Ordinary High Water
mark, consistent with the Washington State Shoreline Management Act (as
illustrated in Figure 5-1).
POLICIES
Shoreline Residential
&Policy 1.1 n the Shoreline Residential
Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
•• Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the shoreline, or
promote preservation of vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area
lands;
•• Development that is compatible with the natural and biological limitations of
the land and water and that will not require extensive alteration of the
shoreline or new "hard" structural shoreline stabilization. Where possible,
the removal of bulkheads, revetments, levees or other "hard" structural
shoreline stabilization is required. Hard structural shoreline stabilization may
be replaced with alternative bioengineered bank stabilization;
•• 0n publicly -owned property, water -dependent or water -related recreational
activities that are compatible with the character of the shoreline residential
areas;
•• Maintenance of existing single-family residential development patterns and
public open space and recreation uses;
•• Residential and recreational development that promotes vegetation
conservation and enhancement, sensitive areas protection, and maintenance
of water quality to assure no net loss of shoreline ecological functions; and
•• Residential and recreational development that contributes to the restoration
of ecological functions in areas where ecological degradation has occurred
over time.
Urban Conservancy Environment
Policy 5r.1.2 URBAN ONSERVANCY ENVIRONMENT In the Urban Conservancy
Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
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SHORELINE
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
•• Development that promotes vegetation conservation and enhancement,
sensitive areas protection, and preservation of water quality to assure no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions;
•• Water enjoyment uses;
•• Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a shoreline -
dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize flood damage;
•• Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions provided by
vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area lands;
•• Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control, consider
impacts to public views, and allow for the safe, unobstructed passage of fish
and wildlife, particularly those species dependent on migration;
•• Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever feasible and
when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
•• Development that is compatible with the natural and biological limitations of
the land and water that do not require extensive alteration of the shoreline
or new shoreline stabilization, except for restoration projects;
•• Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
•• Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of commercial and
industrial activities where shoreline impacts are minimized and where there
is no net loss of shoreline functions.
5.1.3 High -intensity Shoreline Environment:
Policy 1.3 In the High -Intensity Environment, priority shall be given to the following:
•• Water -dependent commercial and industrial uses;
•• Development that promotes vegetation conservation and enhancement,
sensitive areas protection and preservation of water quality, to assure no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions;
•• Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a shoreline -
dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize flood damage;
•• Uses that preserve or restore shoreline ecological functions provided by
vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area lands;
•• Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control, consider
impacts to public views, and allow for the safe, unobstructed passage of fish
and wildlife, particularly those species dependent on migration;
•• Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever feasible and
when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
•• Development compatible with the natural and biological limitations of the
land and water that does not require extensive alteration of the shoreline or
new shoreline stabilization, except for restoration projects;
•• Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
•• Redevelopment of underutilized areas and development of intensive
commercial and industrial activities, where shoreline impacts are minimized
and where there is no net loss of shoreline functions.
Shoreline Environments
Map 5-1: Shoreline Environment Designations
Shoreline Aquatic Environment
Policy 57,1.4 SHORELINE A^'�C-EN cIRONMENT. In the Shoreline Aquatic Environment,
priority shall be given to the following:
•• Uses that preserve or restore the natural character of the shoreline or
promote preservation of vegetation, open space, flood plain or sensitive area
lands;
•• Water -dependent uses;
•• Uses that remove shoreline armoring unless required for a shoreline -
dependent use, and uses that prevent and/or minimize flood damage;
•• Uses that minimize interference with navigation and flood control, consider
impacts to public views, and allow for the safe, unobstructed passage of fish
and wildlife, particularly those species dependent on migration;
•• Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever feasible and
when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
•• Development compatible with the natural and biological limitations of the
land and water, that does not require extensive alteration of the shoreline or
new shoreline stabilization, except for restoration projects;
•• Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
•• Uses compatible with the adjoining shoreline environments.
Photo
The Aquatic Environment applies to areas below the ordinary High Water Mark of a lake,
stream or marine water body.
Shoreline Planning and Management
Tukwila is located in the lower reach of the Green/Duwamish River watershed, which covers
482 square miles and includes over 93 river miles from the Cascade Mountains to Elliott Bay.
The City's portion of the river covers approximately 13 river miles; as a result, the City's
Shoreline Master Program recognizes that — to be successful — protection and enhancement of
shoreline resources is not only a City responsibility but also a regional one. The City is a
member of the Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9, which covers the Green/Duwamish
43
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
River watershed, and has adopted the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan that identifies specific
actions and restoration projects to improve salmon habitat.
GOALS 2
Expanded value of the river as a community and regional resource, through regional
coordination of shoreline management programs and through programs that
foster river appreciation and awareness, involving partnerships among
businesses, schools, residents and government and community organizations.
POLICIES
5,Policy 2.1
Policy &2.2
Coordinate shoreline planning and management activities with other local
jurisdictions and their plans — such as the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan and the
King County Flood Hazard Management Plan — to establish region -wide
consistency in addressing river issues with regional implications, such as
economic development, public access, wildlife habitat, water quality control and
flood control.
Promote river stewardship and increase river awareness through actions which
further shoreline goals, such as educational programs, community activities and
partnerships with Tukwila residents, businesses, schools, government, and
community organizations.
Policy &2.3 Promote and participate in the implementation of the Watershed Resource
Inventory Area (WRIA) 9 Plan, including supporting the recommended projects
located in Tukwila to improve the habitat functions of the Green/Duwamish
River, as well as the Plan's policies and goals.
.—WRIA 9 calm.,, Habitat Plan
• Tukwila SMP Rcst rati n Plan
.-King County [land Hazard Management Plan
Land Development Use and Economic Vitality
An objective of the City's Shoreline Master Program, identified in the Issue section of this
chapter, is to allow continued and increased urban development in recognition of the City's role
as a regionally- significant industrial and commercial center, while also ensuring no net loss of
shoreline ecological functions. The following policies address these objectives.
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 5:3
Development along the shoreline that fosters the economic vitality of Tukwila while preserving
the long-term benefits of the river.
General Policies
Policy &3.1 Implement shoreline design guidelines to:
•• Encourage design that views the river as an amenity;
•• Guide the design of shoreline multiple uses;
•• Establish techniques for increasing shoreline multiple use;
•• Prioritize locations for uses; and
.—Encourage removal of invasive species with nonchemical methods and
maintenance of native
■ planted vegetation to minimize the presence of invasive species.
&Policy 3.2 Design and locate all shoreline development to minimize impacts on areas
identified as important for other river uses, such as wildlife and aquatic habitat,
river vegetation, public access and recreation, historical resources, and flood
control.
Policy &3.3 When no other feasible alternative exists, allow structures for water dependent
uses to be placed in the water, or structural reinforcement of the riverbank,only
when this provides a significant, long-term public benefit, does not interfere with
navigation or flood management, does not cause a loss of shoreline function or is
essential to a water -dependent use.4
Allow structures to be placed in the water, or structural reinforcement of the riverbank, only
when this provides a significant, long term public benefit, does not interfere with navigation or
flood management, does not cause a loss of shoreline function, or is essential to a water
dependent use.
Policy 5:3.4 Prohibit the construction of new flood control facilities unless constructed to
incorporate habitat restoration features, and work to remove existing shoreline
armoring — where possible — to restore habitat functions.
Policy &3.5 Recognize and promote the river's contribution to the economic vitality of
Tukwila, as a valuable amenity for existing and future businesses which depend
on or benefit from a shoreline location.
Policy 5T3.6 Ensure that shoreline development does not diminish the commercial
navigability of the river.
4 Replaced Tukwila language with more specific language in adopted SMP
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Chapter §X
xisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Tukwila Urban Center Development y
Policy 5,3.7 Design and locate shoreline development in the Tukwila Urban Center to
encourage water enjoyment uses that:
•• Provide for shoreline multiple uses consistent with the underlying zoning;
•• Provide additional benefits, such as riverbank restoration, fishing piers, non -
motorized boat launches, river views, or interpretive signs;
•• Support public access to and along the shoreline;
•• Provide water -enjoyment uses as a transition between the river and non -
water uses;
•• Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as clustering, mixed -
use projects, cooperative parking or parking located under principal
structures, and shared utility and access corridors; and
•• Ensure that new development and re -development in the Urban Center
acknowledges the goal of a continuous street facade along Christensen Road
and the riverfront, and locates parking facilities to the interior of the lot.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)5
Im lement ti n Str to ies L n evel ment Use n Cc n mic Vit lity
• Sh reline Design Guidelines
��ukwil Urb n Center P1 n
Palic ' for Manufacturing Industrial Center Development Outside the Tukwila Urban Center or
MIC
Policy 573.8 Ensure that non -water dependent shoreline development in the MIC provides
for shoreline multiple uses to the extent that site security and the success of
industrial operations are not jeopardized; ensures no net loss of shoreline
function and provides adequate mitigation for the loss of shoreline multiple use
opportunities.
Policy 3.9
Allow opportunities for commercial and recreational marinas to locate in Tukwila
downstream of the turning basin, where compatible with existing and future
navigability and existing and future ecological restoration projects.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)
s These were listed below - they have been moved to a better location
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Chapter §X
xisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes) .111
Development Outside the Tukwila Urban Center or Manufacturing Industrial Center
Policy 3.10
Design and locate shoreline development outside of the Tukwila Urban Center
and the MIC to:
•• Provide for shoreline multiple uses;
•• Provide water -enjoyment uses as transitions between the river and non-
water- dependent uses;
•• Encourage efficient use of land through such techniques as clustering, mixed -
use projects, cooperative parking or parking located under principal
structures, and shared utility and access corridors; and
•• Treat the river as an amenity in the design and location of the project.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)
MIC Development Politics
5.3.9 Ensure that non water dependent shoreline development in the MIC provides
for shoreline multiple uscs to thc extent that site security and thc success of
industrial operations arc not jeopardized, ensures no nct loss of shoreline
function, and provides adequate mitigation for loss of shoreline multiple use
opportunities.
5,340 Allow opportunities for commercial and recreational marinas to locate in Tukwila
downstream of the turning basin, where compatible with existing and future
navigability and existing and future ecological restoration projects.
Private Property Rights
GOAL &4
Protect rights of property owners to reasonable use and enjoyment of private property
through appropriate location, access to, and design of shoreline uses.
POLICIES
Policy &4.1 Design, locate and manage shoreline uses in a manner that maintains reasonable
use and enjoyment of private property.
Policy &4.2 Design and locate public access in a way that is appropriate for the site,
depending on site conditions and private property concerns.
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Chapter§X
xisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
• Sh reline devel pmcnt standards
Policy 5,4.3 Special sensitivity is required for residential property; therefore, all single-family
residential development of four or fewer single-family residential lots is excluded
from requirements to provide private or public access. Single-family property
owners are not exempt from the responsibility to improve the habitat value of
the shoreline environment.
Policy 5,4.4 Maintain flexibility in methods of obtaining access, to allow for different site
conditions and private property concerns that might conflict with access, such as
privacy, safety and security.
Policy 5,4.5 Obtain additional easement area to permit the improvement of river habitat, by
setting back levees or removing revetments and other hard shoreline armoring,
and replacing with more habitat -friendly shoreline treatment.
• CL,oreline design guide Iinee
Shoreline Design Quality
GOAL 5,5
Enhanced identity of the river as a unique community asset through
high -quality development and public activities that reflect Tukwila's history and sense of
community pride.
POLICIES
Policy 5,5.1 Require that shoreline development outside of the MIC:
•• Ensures no net loss of shoreline function;
•• Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila river design guidelines;
•• Reflects principles of high -quality design in such areas as site planning,
architecture and landscaping; and
•• Includes setbacks, bulk, height, density, landscape buffers and provisions for
open space that enhance the shoreline environment.
Implementation Strategics
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Chapter §X
Fisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
• R+vcr design guidelines
• S#ie-r-eGne development standards
• Tukwila Urban Center Plan
Policy &5.2 Require that shoreline development in the MIC:
•Is designed to be consistent with Tukwila shoreline design guidelines;
•• Maintains or enhances the existing visual quality along the river;
•• Provides trees and other landscaping to buffer industrial uses that are
incompatible with other river uses; and
• Provides amenities that enhance enjoyment of the river by employees.
Photo
Tukwila's Manufacturing/Industrial Center is an important regional industrial center
located along the Duwamish River.
I emcetat+en- cgy
• Shoreline design guidelines
• S1.e.,clinc development standards
Access and Recreational Use
Public access to shorelines of the State is one of the key goals of the Shoreline Management
Act; of the seven uses identified in RCW 90.58.020 as having preference in the shoreline, two
relate to public access and recreation.
In addition to the Green River Trail, which runs along much of the length of the river through
the City, Tukwila is fortunate to have a number of other public access sites along the river. The
following goals and policies support preserving existing public access sites and providing
additional public access to the river. To support implementation of these goals and policies, the
City's development regulations include incentives for private development projects to provide
public access to the shoreline.
GOAL 5:6
Increase the amount and diversity of opportunities for public recreation and access to and
along the river, including visual and cultural access, access to the water's edge,
opportunities for small boat navigation and access, and connections to other
neighborhoods consistent with the shoreline character.
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
General Policies
Policy 676.1
Policy 676.2
Policy 676.3
Retain and improve areas identified as important in the network of public access
to the river, including cross-town connections, former railroad rights -of -way and
unimproved street -end rights -of -way, historic sites, unique natural features, or
other areas valuable for their interpretive potential.
Maintain existing parks along the shoreline; and acquire additional park land to
increase access and recreation opportunities.
Incorporate river access requirements to guide the design, location, and
management of shoreline public access in all subdivisions and short plats over
four lots, as well as multi --family, commercial, and industrial development; to
identify types of access appropriate and feasible for various site conditions and
locations; and to establish strategies, funding sources and priorities for
acquisition and enhancement of shoreline public access.
Implementation Strategies
• Shoreline design guidelines
•
Photo
Shoreline public access guidelines n Shoreline development standards n Walk and Roll Plan
Parks and Open Space Plan
Shoreline rails provide important public access opportunities for Tukwila residents.
Policy 676.4
Policy 676.5
Policy 676.6
Design, locate and manage public access for diverse types and variable levels of
intensity, in order to minimize impacts on vulnerable features of the natural
environment and to minimize conflicts with private property uses.
Where shoreline development provides public access areas, reserve such areas
through the means most appropriate for the type, scale and impacts of the
development, such as donation or sale of an easement or right-of-way to the
City.
Support the implementation of the King County Green River Trail — per the
existing King County Green River Trail Master Plan — as well as pedestrian/bicycle
connections with the Trail from properties on the opposite bank and the
expansion of this Trail, where appropriate.
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SHORELINE
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Chapter §X
xisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policies For Development Outside Manufacturing Industrial CenterMic
Policy 5,6.7 Require subdivisions, multi familymultifamily residential uses, and commercial
and industrial uses along the shoreline to provide a trail for public access along
the river, in areas identified for trail connections consistent with the King County
Green River Trail Master Plan, Shoreline Master Program, or any other approved
access plan. Require any property not included in the King County Green River
Trail Plan to provide public access or a private natural area in lieu of physical
public access.6
Implemcnt3ti„n Strategies
• King County Grccn River Trail Master Plan
• Shoreline public access standards
• WAFa-Ik and Roll Plan
• Parks and Open Space Plan
6.8 Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is designed to be safe
and convenient and includes access amenities such as benches, drinking
fountains, public parking areas, handicapped access and appropriate lighting,
consistent with the shoreline access guidelines.
Implementation Strategies
• Shoreline access guidelines
• King County Grccn River Trail Master Plan
• Walk and Roll Plan
• Parks and Open Space Plan
Policy 5,6.9 Except for single-family residential development of four or fewer single-family
residential lots, shoreline developments shall maintain views of the water from
the shoreline and from upland areas, through appropriate design of building
height, bulk and modulation, windows, breezeways, and outdoor spaces.
Implementation Strategy
.-Shoreline design guidelines
Policy 5,6.10 Public access improvements should be designed and constructed to:
6 Not included in state -adopted SMP
51
SHORELINE
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
•• Look and "feel" welcoming to the public.
•• Connect to public areas, street ends, and other pedestrian or public
thoroughfares.
•■ Enhance the character of Tukwila.
•• Avoid conflicts with water -dependent uses.
•• Provide for public safety and minimize impacts to private property and
individual privacy and security.
•• Require a low level of operation and maintenance.
•• Ensure that construction (i.e., structures and access pathways) incorporates
environmentally -sensitive design and materials (e.g., non -toxic, natural
materials).
Policy 676.11 Improve pedestrian connections between the river, Green River Trail and the
Urban Center's commercial, office, and residential uses.
Policies for Development in Manufacturing Industrial Center
POLICIES FOR DEVE OPMENT IN MIC
Policy 676.12 For MIC properties included in the King County Green River Trail Master Plan,
require shoreline development to provide a trail for public access along the river.
Policy 676.13 Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is designed to be safe
and convenient, and includes access amenities such as benches, drinking
fountains, public parking areas, handicapped access, and appropriate lighting,
consistent with the river shoreline access guidelines.
Policy 576.14 For MIC properties not included in the King County Green River Trail Plan,
require shoreline development to provide public access or a private natural area
in lieu of public access, or otherwise mitigate the loss of public access.
Implementation Strategies
• Shoreline design guidelines
• Shoreline access guidelines
• Wa-1-1( and Roll Plan
• Parks and Open Space Plan
Transportation Within the Shoreline Zone
52
SHORELINE
Page 17 of 26
Chapter §X
IExisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 574
Safe corridors and amenities for pedestrians, cyclists, and users of public transportation,
allowing more citizens to access and enjoy the river.
POLICIES
Policy 577.1 Design and locate transportation uses within the shoreline jurisdiction to be
compatible with shoreline vegetation or other habitat features, turn -outs or
parking areas for public access, boat ramps, biofiltration swales to protect water
quality, public art, or interpretive signs.
Policy 577.2 Ensure that transportation uses within the shoreline jurisdiction and within
those corridors identified as river cross -connections provide safe, convenient
and attractive pedestrian, bicycle, and boater access and facilities for public
transportation.
Policy 577.3 Minimize transportation impacts on the natural environment (such as noises,
odors, and air or water pollution), and enhance the natural environment
wherever possible through planting treeslow impact development, green
stormwater infrastructure, planting trees, -and other habitat features.
Policy 577.4 Encourage maintenance of the river's navigability up to the turning basin
where this achieves a greater public interest and a balance between costs and
benefits to the broader community, and impacts to the habitat functions of the
river — in recognition of the historical significance of navigation and its
importance to the economic vitality of water -dependent uses and the MIC.
Historical Resource Use
GOAL 5878
Recognition of the river's contribution to Tukwila history and community identity through
identification, enhancement, restoration and protection of sites with historic
and cultural value, and through development of interpretive and educational
programs.
POLICIES
Policy 578.1 Ensure that shoreline development reflects the river's important role in Tukwila
history, and that long-term public use of the river as a historical resource is
7 DOE: Question for DOE about this — navigability extends beyond this location in non -motorized boats
53
SHORELINE
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Chapter §X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
protected by providing for the identification, protection and interpretation of
unique historic and archaeological features.
Policy 578.2 Ensure that public shoreline development reflects the river's natural features
and community traditions.
Policy 578.3 Ensure that archaeological artifacts and sites are protected when development
takes place in the shoreline jurisdiction.
Natural Environment and Habitat Use
The Green/Duwamish River has undergone extensive modifications in the past, to reduce
channel migration and limit the extent and duration of valley flooding by constructing levees
and revetments. These modifications to the river system have negatively impacted ecological
functions, including hydrology, water quality, riparian habitat and in -stream habitat. River flows
have been modified by dam construction, stream diversion, and urban development. River
management and levees have reduced the connection between the rivers and their floodplains,
changing the spatial extent of habitat, and increasing the potential for negative water quality
impacts. Disturbances to the channel banks have resulted in areas that are dominated by non-
native invasive species. Wood, in the form of riparian trees and in -channel wood, is generally
lacking throughout the system, which has a negative impact on riparian and aquatic habitats.
The following goals and policies seek to improve the ecological function of the river system.
Photo
Aerial view of North Winds Weir Off -Channel Habitat (photo courtesy of WRIA9)
GOAL 579
Restored, enhanced, and protected natural environmental resources along the river,
including trees, wildlife habitat, and features with value for long-term public,
scientific and educational uses.
POLICIES
Policy 579.1 Ensure that shoreline development results in no net loss of shoreline ecological
function and minimizes impacts on wildlife, and that significant vegetation,
sandbars, wetlands, watercourses and other critical areas identified as important
8 Evaluate with DOE
Heidi Watters
Add here and/or in Environment. WQ of the River
does start with tributaries, so want It mentioned
both places.
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SHORELINE
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Chapter §X
xisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
for habitat are maintained through the proper location, design, construction, and
management of all shoreline uses and activities.
Policy 5:9.2 Ensure that shoreline development and activities protect riverbank vegetation
and, where feasible, restore degraded riverbanks in accordance with the
vegetation management provisions of the Shoreline Master Program, in order to
minimize and compensate for impacts on fish and wildlife habitat.
Policy 579.3 Mitigate unavoidable disturbances of significant vegetation or habitat through
replacement of habitat and provision of interpretive features consistent with the
shoreline access guidelines.
Policy 5:9.4 Support relief from certain Shoreline Master Program requirements for
properties affected by habitat restoration projects that result in the movement
of the ordinary high water mark.
Policy 5:9.5 Support establishing the Transition Zone — given its importance for subtidal and
intertidal habitats — as the priority area for habitat restoration projects, to allow
salmonids to gradually adjust to the change between fresh and saltwater
conditions.'
Water Quality, Surface Water, and Flood Control Use
A system of levees and revetments have been constructed along a major portion of the river in
Tukwila. The City has adopted a minimum levee profile to promote river bank stability, protect
structures, and enhance shoreline ecological functions. The minimum levee profile incorporates
a mid -slope bench that provides a wider river channel to accommodate higher flows during
storm events, and that allows planting of native vegetation to improve habitat functions. The
vegetation on the mid -slope bench will also reduce the speed of water flows during storm
events.
POLICIES
Policy 5:10.1 Design, locate and manage shoreline development including streets, flood
control projects, surface water drainage and sewer systems, clearing and grading
activities, and landscaping in a manner that minimizes opportunities for
9 DOE Not exactly what is in adopted SMP, but better language... DOE adopted: Support establishing the Transition
Zone as the priority area for habitat restoration projects given its importance for subtidal and intertidal habitats to allow
salmonids to gradually adjust to the change between fresh and saltwater conditions
55
Page 20 of 26
.SHORELINE
Chapter §X
Fisting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
pollutants to enter the river, provides erosion control, and otherwise protects
water quality.
Policy &10.2 Design, manage and mitigate flood control uses to minimize impacts on other
shoreline uses such as trees and riverbank vegetation, public access and
recreation, and fish habitat; and set them back from the river, where feasible for
the project, with land areas between the water and the levee set aside as open
space for public recreation or wildlife habitat.
Policy &10.3 Consistent with project feasibility, mitigate unavoidable negative impacts on
other shore —line uses owing to flood control uses through such measures as
restoration of trees and native riverbank vegetation, provision of public access to
the water's edge, interpretive features, or other mitigation of loss of
opportunities for shoreline multiple uses.
Policy 6,10.4 Obtain additional easements, where needed, from property owners to set back
levees to improve flood control and shoreline habitat functions. Where possible,
as redevelopment occurs, replace bulkheads, revetments or other hard bank
stabilization with more natural levees, riverbanks or other shoreline treatments,
to improve flood control, ecological functions and habitat.
Implementation Strategies
• W#eie possible, increase levee setback
• Shoreline access guidelines
• Surface Water Management Plan
• WA 9 Plan water quality policies
Figure 5-2: Proposed profile for reconfigured levees
Public Health, Safety and Welfare
GOAL 11
Shoreline uses that do not endanger public health, safety and welfare, or the
capacity of the river to provide long-term benefits and resources to the
community."
Policy &11.1 Design, locate and manage shoreline uses, such as capital improvement projects
and private development, in a manner that does not endanger public health,
safety and welfare, and enhances the capacity of the river to provide long-term
benefits and resources to the community.
10 DOE: In adopted SMP
SHORELINE
Page 21 of 26
Chapter§X
rimerComprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
l ementation Strategies - Private Property Rights
Shoreline Use Preferences11
Goal 12:
Tukwila, in developing and implementing its shoreline master program for shorelines
of statewide significance, including the Green/Duwamish River, shall give preference
to uses in the following order of preference thatwhich:
1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local interest;
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline;
3. Result in long term over short term benefit;
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shorelines;
5. Increase public access to publicly owned areas of the shorelines;
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the shoreline;
8. Provide for any other element as defined in RCW 90.58.100 deemed appropriate
or necessary.
River design guidelines
River access guidelines
Shoreline development standards
Implementation SStrategi s _ 1 and Development I Ise and Economic Vitality
11 DOE: In adopted SMP; omitted from Tukwila SMP
57
SHORELINE
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Chapter§X
Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
RELATED INFORMATION
Shoreline Master Program
Washington State Shoreline Management Act
Washington State Department of Ecology — Shoreline Information
Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9: Green/Duwamish Salmon Habitat Restoration Plan
—Shoreline Design Guidelines
Development standards
Tukwila Urban Ccntcr Plan
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan
Tukwila SMP Restoration Plan
#4g Ce-unty Flood Hazard Management Plan
58
SHORELINE
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Chapter§X
rimerComprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Implementation Strategies12
The time frames for Implementation Strategies are as follows:
• Near Term: 2025 to 2029
• Mid Term: 2030 to 2034
• Log Term: 2035 to 2039
Ongoing
Policy #
Goal 2
Strategy #
Strategies - Shoreline Planning
Responsible for
Time
Frame
Reference
Implementation
Implementation
Heading (2015
and Management
Update)
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan
Tukwila SMP Restoration Plan
King County Flood Hazard
Management Plan
Goal 3
Land Development Use and Economic Vitality
3.7
3.7.1
Shoreline Design Guidelines
3.7
3.7.2
Development Standards
3.7
3.7.3
Tukwila Urban Center Plan
Goal 4
Private Property Rights
4.1, 4.2
River design guidelines
4.1, 4.2
River access guidelines
4.1, 4.2
Shoreline development
standards
4.3, 4.4,
Shoreline design guidelines
4.5
Goal 5
Shoreline Design Quality
5.1
Shoreline design guidelines
5.1
Shoreline development
standards
5.1
Tukwila Urban Center Plan
5.2
5.2.1
Shoreline design guidelines
5.2
5.2.2
Shoreline development
standards
12 DOE: These "implementation strategies" are pretty useless, compared to what is expected from lmpl. Strats regionally.
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SHORELINE
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Chapter&X
sting Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
.—sponsible for
Time
Frame
Reference
Implementation
Heading (2015
late)
Goal 6
Access and
Recreational Use
6.1 to 6.3
Shoreline design guidelines
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Shoreline public access
Access and
guidelines
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Shoreline development
Access and
standards
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Walk and Roll Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.1 to 6.3
Parks and Open Space Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use
6.7 & 6.8
King County Green River Trail
Access and
Master Plan
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.7 & 6.8
Shoreline public access
Access and
standards
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.7 & 6.8
Walk and Roll Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.7 & 6.8
Parks and Open Space Plan
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.9
Shoreline design guidelines
Access and
Recreational
Use:
Development
outside MIC
6.12-6.14
Shoreline design guidelines
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
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Page 25 of 26
Chapter§X
rimerComprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
.—sponsible for
Time
Frame
Reference
Implementation
Heading (2015
late)
6.12-6.14
Shoreline access guidelines
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
6.12-6.14
Walk and Roll Plan
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
6.12-6.14
Parks and Open Space Plan
Policies for
Development
outside MIC
Goal 10
Water Quality, Surface Water, and Flood Control Use
10.1-10.4
Increase levee setback to
incorporate flatter, more
stable slope and vegetated
mid -slope benches 13
10.1-10.4
Shoreline access guidelines
10.1-10.4
Surface Water
Management Plan
10.1-10.4
WRIA 9 Plan water quality
policies
10.1-10.4
Shoreline Restoration
PIan14
13 DOE: This was omitted from Tukwila's list of implementation strategies, but appears in adopted SMP
14 DOE: In adopted SMP, but not in Tukwila Element
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SHORELINE
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Chapter§X
Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
RELATED INFORMATION
Shoreline Master Program
Washington State Shorclinc Management Act
Washington State Department of Ecology Shorclinc Information
Water Resource Inventory Are (WRIA) 9: Green/Duwamish Salmon Habitat Restoration Plan
5
62
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER:
• Adescription of the natural resources and environmentally critical areas present in the City of
Tukwila;
• A discussion of local City effortsto protectTukwila's natural resources; and
• Goals and Policies for protecting sensitive natural resources, including the urban forest.
PURPOSE
This element of the Comprehensive Plan addresses the City's natural environment — air, land
and water resources — by guiding future development in a manner that protects the
community's environment, improves the quality of life in the City, and provides reasonable
protection of community residents from natural hazards.
To be healthy and sustainable, a community must integrate the natural environment into urban
development design. The natural environment and its associated ecological processes provide
many benefits to Tukwila, including:
• Visual relief from the hard, constructed surfaces of urban development;
• Fish and wildlife habitat;
• Air and water quality;
• Surface water runoff management;
• Recreational opportunities for interaction with nature;
• Human health; and
• Aesthetic and economic benefits.
Trees and vegetation also provide critical environmental services which, in turn, affect the
quality of life of residents, visitors, daytime workers and neighboring communities. Some of the
benefits of trees are shown below.
1
The City conducted a required periodic update of its critical areas regulations in 2018 and
2019.2 This included a Public Outreach Plan that used a variety of methods to notify the general
public and property owners including an open house, mailings, notice in a stormwater bill,
postings on the City's website, creation of a broadcast email group that received updates of the
process, and articles in the City's Hazelnut newsletter.
Goals and Policies for the protection of Paleontological and Archaeological Resources
previously listed in this element have been moved to the Community Image Element.
1 0ld information; deleted
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Benefits of Trees
ENVIRONMENTAL
Fish and wildlife habitat
Improved air quality
Storm water mitigation
Reduced energy consumption
Sequestration of carbon
Stabilization of slopes
SOCIAL
Lower crime rates
Mental health benefits
Improved physical health
Aesthetics and quality oflife
ECONOMIC
Consumer satisfaction/ increased spending
Increased property values
Reduced maintenance of road surfaces (shade)
Green infrastructure — reduced cost over installing and maintaining surface water infrastructure
The Natural Environment Element sets forth goals and policies to guide the protection and
management of wetlands, watercourses, springs, fish and wildlife habitat areas, and
geologically hazardous areas — collectively called "environmentally critical areas". It also
includes goals and policies related to flood management, surface water management, water
quality, and the urban forest (the combination of trees, shrubs and other plants that make up
the formal landscaped areas of the City and the natural areas in our parks and on private
property).
Tukwila Pond serves as both wetland habitat and temporary stormwater storage.
[Image]
Southgate Creek is an example of a watercourse with little riparian protection from urban
impacts.
[Image]
THE STATE OF TUKWILA'S URBAN ENVIRONMENT
Tukwila encompasses about nine square miles, and much of the city lies within an extensive
valley centered on the Lower Green/Duwamish River watershed. The valley is virtually flat and
almost entirely built out except for the currently undeveloped Tukwila South area. The upland
areas of the City have rolling topography and numerous areas with steep and potentially
unstable slopes. Many of the steep hillsides are forested with second- or third -growth trees and
understories with a mix of native and invasive vegetation. These areas — together with the City's
numerous streams, wetlands, springs and the River — provide important fish and wildlife habitat
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
that coexist with the built environment. The following is a summary of conditions in the
constituent elements of Tukwila's environment.
WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES
As urban development has occurred, natural drainage corridors have been altered or placed in
culverts, and wetlands have been filled. Remnant wetlands remain in some of the City's parks,
on undeveloped slopes (formed by springs and groundwater seeps), in freeway interchanges,
and in other areas of the City. Wetlands and watercourses have been provisionally identified
and mapped on the City's Environmentally Critical Areas Map. The City has purchased Tukwila
Pond and Macadam wetland for preservation. Tukwila Pond serves as both a wetland and
temporary storm water storage pond for commercial development on its north side. Macadam
wetland collects mostly natural surface water from the steep slopes located on its east side.
FISH SPECIES IN TUKWILA
Fish species found in the Green/Duwamish River include the following:
Cutthroat trout
Puget Sound Chinook salmon (threatened)
Puget Sound Steelhead (threatened)
Chum salmon
Coho salmon
Pink salmon
Sockeye salmon
Bull trout (threatened)
Resident Cutthroat trout are found in Tukwila's streams, as well as other fish and aquatic
species.
Cutthroat trout photo courtesy of Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.
Stream alterations have affected wildlife and fish habitat. There are a few remaining open
channels in the four main streams in Tukwila (Johnson Creek, Gilliam Creek, Southgate Creek
and Riverton Creek), which have been channelized, relocated and piped for much of their
length. Construction of urban streets and highway systems and driveways required
watercourses to be placed in culverts, which have blocked or made fish passage difficult. All the
streams discharge into the Green/Duwamish River.
Stormwater Runoff — coupled with steep slopes in the upper reaches of Gilliam, Southgate and
Riverton Creeks — has caused scouring and erosion in the stream channels, resulting in
deepened ravines with steep banks, instability, bank erosion and downstream sedimentation.
The lower reaches of Tukwila's streams are generally lacking in pools and woody debris, which
are important for good fish habitat. Thus, the open reaches of Tukwila's streams are generally
in deteriorated conditions with poor riparian habitat and narrow buffers. In fact, many
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
tributaries of the urban watercourses flow in roadside ditches with little protection from urban
impacts. Recent City -led projects to remove flap -gates are working at enriching stream habitat
at River outlets by removing barriers, increasing complexity, replanting and increasing
hydrologic connectivity.
FISH AND WILDLIFE
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has mapped and identified priority
habitats and species in Tukwila to ensure their protection and management. They include: the
Green/Duwamish River; reaches of Gilliam Creek, Southgate Creek and Riverton Creek; riparian
areas (areas adjacent to streams and rivers) and freshwater wetlands. Also mapped are wetland
complexes and Johnson Creek in Tukwila South.
The Shoreline Master Program provides more detail on the City's involvement with the Water
Resource Inventory Area 9 (WRIA 9) and the Green/Duwamish River Salmon Habitat Plan, which
guides local sponsor restoration planning and implementation for Chinook salmon habitat.
Volunteers removing invasive blackberry - Duwamish River Shoreline Restoration Project
[Image]
Community volunteers stocking Coho salmon in Southgate Creek.
[Image]
Pacific tree frog at wetland restoration site.
[Image]
Tukwila residents and businesses are actively involved in stewardship, wildlife protection, and
enhancement through City -sponsored activities such as Green Tukwila, as well as in private
initiatives to restore shorelines and open spaces and annually stock and incubate Coho salmon
eggs in local creeks. In addition, the City's NPDES program works to educate citizens, businesses
and school age children on ways to improve water quality and directly benefit salmon habitat.
Waterfowl areas in Tukwila include Tukwila Pond and the wetlands in Tukwila South, both of
which provide important winter habitat for migrating waterfowl and permanent habitat for
other waterfowl. More than 50 species of birds have been recorded at Tukwila Pond. Other bird
species found in Tukwila include osprey, which regularly nest near the Green/ Duwamish River;
hawks; and passerine birds. Other wildlife species found in Tukwila include harbor seals,
coyotes, deer, Eastern Grey squirrels, beaver, otter, nutria, turtles (mostly non-native red -eared
sliders), garter snakes, snails, amphibians (non-native bullfrogs, native Pacific tree frogs and
salamanders), opossum and raccoons.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMEN 1
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
Tukwila's urban center, the light industrial and manufacturing area south of South 180th Street,
part of Tukwila South, and Fort Dent Park are protected from flooding of the Green River by
levee systems. The City participates in the National Flood Insurance Program administered by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which has mapped regulated floodplains
in Tukwila. Mapped floodplains and the levee systems are explained in more detail in the
Shoreline Element of the Comprehensive Plan.
Impervious surfaces and the reduction of natural wetland functions have caused localized
flooding from streams periodically, at varying levels of severity on some areas of public right-of-
way, as well as private properties where inadequate or no surface water infrastructure exists.
The City has resolved many of the flooding problems through improvements to surface water
infrastructure.3. The surface water management system (surface water utility) is described in
more detail in the Utilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan. More detailed information on
localized flooding problems is provided in the City's Comprehensive Surface Water
Management Plan.
EARTH RESOURCES AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
The City has mapped areas with steep and unstable slopes, including active landslide areas, to
ensure that there is adequate review of slope stability if development is proposed in these
areas. In addition, there are coal formations on the southwest side of Interurban Avenue South,
some of which have been mined and are defined as environmentally critical areas based on the
City of Tukwila Abandoned Underground Coal Mine Hazard Assessment, May 1990.
WATER QUALITY
The City has conducted periodic water quality studies that have indicated Tukwila's streams and
the Green/Duwamish River suffer from poor water quality due to stormwater runoff, small
buffers, and suboptimal vegetation. Rain events wash contaminants off rooftops, driveways,
sidewalks, parking lots and roads into the watercourses. Runoff from these areas can contribute
to high temperatures in urban streams and carry contaminants into streams and wetlands.
New developments are required to implement Green Stormwater Infrastructure4 and comply
with flow control and water quality treatment requirements intended to moderate and treat
discharges that flow towards streams. There are, however, still areas of Tukwila where runoff
from impervious surfaces discharges directly to streams and the river with no treatment. (See
Natural Environment Element Regulatory Background Report for more information on water
quality.)
3 Old reference; removed
"Green" stormwater infrastructure is designed to mimic nature and capture rainwater where it falls. See
Glossary.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Riparian habitat plays a valuable role in protecting stream water quality. Adequately -sized and
healthy riparian buffers help to mitigate a variety of pollutant impacts. Shade streams reduce
the high water temperatures that contribute to anaerobic stream conditions, which have lethal
effects on fish and other aquatic species. Unfortunately, most of Tukwila's streams have poor
quality, narrow riparian areas.
AIR QUALITY
Tukwila lies in the air quality region made up of King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties.
Air quality is monitored and managed by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. Through the efforts
of the Clean Air Agency, King County as a whole generally has good air quality, however, climate
conditions have increasingly had an impact on air quality in Tukwila and the region. Wildfires
have created air quality concerns as harmful chemicals and tiny particles suspended in the air
create health issues for the public. During these periods of smoke exposure, the City follows
the guidance of regional, state, and national health, emergency management, and air quality
partners in providing public education and community response options.
Tukwila is divided throughout by significant transportation corridors, including Washington 599,
and Washington 518, as well as Interstates 5 and 405. These road systems have been found to
negatively impact community health. A study completed by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
(PSCAA) documented that some areas of Tukwila bear among the worst air quality health
impacts from road systems within King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Kitsap counties.
"Tukwila/Allentown" was identified as the most impacted of the "Highly Impacted
Communities", and the "Tukwila/Kent" area experienced the third worst air quality. Much of
that impact comes from diesel pollution, as well as industrial source pollution.
In addition, the Duwamish Valley south of Seattle suffers from higher particulate pollution
levels that are damaging to human health. This corridor provides valuable economic services to
the region in terms of transportation corridors, industry, and commerce, which comes at a cost
to the area's inhabitants.
CLIMATE CHANGE
The impacts of climate change in Tukwila affect several aspects of the natural environment, as
well as the provision of utilities to its residents. Climate modelling indicates that the region will
experience warmer temperatures, changing the precipitation pattern towards less snow and
more rain during the winter. This poses challenges to flood hazard mitigation within Tukwila
and the valley, and also will impact the regional water supply. Climate change causes sea levels
to rise, which would affect the tidally -influenced portions of the Green/Duwamish River, raising
water levels in the river and causing tidal waters to reach further upriver and into streams. This,
in turn, could impact flood hazard mitigation measures and fish and wildlife habitat, with
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
particular detriment to salmon. Other possible effects of climate change could include new and
increased insect infestations in the City's urban forest; changes in wildlife behavior and
diversity; increased demands on City resources; and reduced availability of water supplies for
drinking water, irrigation of gardens, landscaped areas, street trees and parks.
Increases in temperatures could exacerbate existing heat island effects in the highly developed
areas of the City where there is a significant amount of impervious surface (buildings, streets,
and parking lots). Recently, King County created a heat map5, showing how Tukwila, with a
relatively large paved footprint, can reach extremely high temperatures and is unable to cool at
night during extreme heat events. Tukwila residents and workers are thus being increasingly
exposed to heat -related illness, at an inequitable rate as compared to other parts of the region.
This underscores the importance of increasing tree canopy in these areas to help reduce
temperatures during the summer months, particularly over impervious surfaces such as parking
lots. High water temperatures are already a problem for salmon in the Green/Duwamish River,
where there is a lack of shade from trees along the shoreline in many areas. Restoration
plantings and maintaining large trees on the shoreline will help improve conditions for salmon
in the river and in its tributaries, and help to reduce even greater water temperatures that
could be caused by climate change.
TUKWILA'S URBAN FOREST
A tree engulfed by invasive English ivy.
[Image]
7
The "City of Tukwila Urban Tree Canopy Assessment," was last updated 2012, although work is
underway to update the study'. The assessment quantifies existing urban tree canopy, as well
as impervious surfaces, surface water, grasslands and bare soils. Assessment information
shapes the basis for several new goals and policies relating to the urban forest. (See the
assessment report appended to this chapter of the Comprehensive Plan.)
The City is fortunate to have remnant stands of second- or third -growth native forests and good
canopy coverage in its low density residential areas -- on undeveloped steep slopes and in some
of its parks (for example, Crystal Springs Park and Tukwila Park). However, these forest stands
lack active management and suffer from over -crowding, lack of diversity, and infestations of
invasive plants like blackberry and ivy, all of which compromise their sustainability. Trees in
undeveloped areas are threatened by future development. Aging trees in already -developed
residential and commercial areas become hazardous and require removal, and are not always
shttps://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/elected/executive/consta ntine/news/release/2021/iune/23-heat-mapping-resuIts
Data is dated to 2015 — have been unable to do a recalculation for 2023
'The 2023 canopy is completed — we are dissecting the data to finalize the summary at this time
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NATURAL ENVIRONMEN 1
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
replaced with new trees. Many landslide hazard slopes in Tukwila currently enjoy the
protection of canopy coverage, however the lack of active management leaves this protective
factor vulnerable to threats.
The City has street trees of varying species, sizes, health, and maturity planted on City rights -of -
way throughout Tukwila. They range from large canopy trees to small canopy or young trees
that do not provide many benefits. Street trees often do not get replaced when they are
damaged or removed and do not all get the level of care or the conditions they need to thrive.
Shade trees are generally lacking in most of the City's commercial parking lots and other
landscaped areas. Trees in these areas are often improperly pruned or removed and not
replaced. Trees throughout the City are frequently damaged by installation or maintenance of
infrastructure and new development.
The Green/Duwamish River and the City's streams generally have narrow riparian buffers, the
result of development occurring before protective buffer widths were required. These too -
small buffers have been impacted by urbanization, and the increasing amounts of impervious
surface, reducing the amount of urban forest in these areas. Some reaches of the river are
characterized by large native canopy trees (Foster Golf Course, for example), while in other
areas there is little to no tree canopy and large expanses of invasive vegetation instead. Trees
have been removed from the Green River levee south of SR 405 to meet Corps of Engineers
requirements. New efforts to increase multi -benefit approaches to flood control may take
ecology further into account.
Several environmental restoration projects to enhance the urban forest have been completed
and also are underway in the City's parks, wetlands, and streams, and along the Duwamish
River. Trees have been planted along the river by King County as mitigation for removal of trees
elsewhere. The City also plants hundreds of trees in its parks each year; requires trees as part of
landscaping for commercial, industrial, office and multi- family developments; and requires tree
replacement in environmentally critical areas.
The City does not have, however, a comprehensive written urban forestry plan, street tree, or
other program in place to ensure retention, protection, and maintenance of a healthy urban
forest across all areas of the City. A program to improve the urban forest should include the
following emphasis:
• Preservation of existing trees and forest;
• Preservation and improvement of the "tree -growing" environment (i.e., adequate growing
conditions for trees);
• Planting for the long term (i.e., ensuring that the right tree is placed in the right place with
sufficient provisions for tree maintenance and care);
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
• Monitoring for emerging threats to the urban forest; and
• Promotion of the environmental equity goals that should be realized in the urban forest.
REGULATIONS
In addition to the State Growth Management Act, many regulations at the federal, State, and
local levels apply to the management of Tukwila's natural environment. More information can
be found in the Background Report for this Element.
ISSUES
In the Natural Environment Element, several key issues are addressed that reflect new
community priorities and respond to new regulations at the local, regional, State, and federal
levels. The goals and policies that follow respond to these identified issues.
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY, COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
In order to foster best practices for protecting Tukwila's environmental quality, improve the
protection and restoration of the City's environmentally critical areas and fish and wildlife
habitat, and improve air and water quality, the City needs to provide information and education
to the community in various forms. In addition, the City should continue to expand efforts, in
collaboration with other organizations and businesses, to engage the community through
hands-on environmental stewardship and restoration activities. Policies regarding the
protection of fish and wildlife and climate change are also important to incorporate into the
Natural Environment Element.
ENVIRONMENTALLY CRITICAL AREAS
Although Tukwila has enacted significant revisions to its Environmentally Critical Areas
regulations over the years, most recently in 2020, new policies are needed to reflect the current
best available science information, and new federal and State regulations and guidelines.
Tukwila also needs to improve the protection of watercourses, and find mechanisms and
resources to ensure that compensatory mitigation is successful for the long term. A great deal
of nonconforming development was legally established prior to current regulations, and
continues to negatively impact the quality of the City's buffers. To ameliorate the impact of
these damaging developments, the City should partner with, and provide incentives to,
landowners to encourage redevelopment that conforms to current standards.
FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
The listing of Puget Sound Chinook salmon and Bull Trout under the Endangered Species Act
has underscored the need for the City to protect and restore habitat for fish and other wildlife.
Continued restoration efforts and new sources of funding are needed to carry out habitat
restoration on the Green/Duwamish River and its tributaries. The City must continue to be
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NATURAL ENVIRONMEN 1
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
actively involved in shaping programs and helping implement the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat
Enhancement Plan, in collaboration with other local jurisdictions and county, State and federal
government agencies.
WATER QUALITY
More efforts are needed to improve and protect water quality in the City's wetlands,
watercourses, springs, and the Green/Duwamish River; therefore, the City needs to ensure that
adequate resources are available. Programs for monitoring water quality, retrofitting surface
water management systems where there are water quality problems, and improving riparian
buffers are important actions for the City to carry out.
SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT
With new State requirements for the management of surface water, the City must modify its
surface water regulations and begin implementing and requiring low -impact development
techniques for surface water system retrofits and for new development. The City operates its
street drain network (MS4) under a State issued NPDES Permit (Permit) and manages the
ditches, swales, ponds, pipes, vaults, catch basins and manholes to be consistent with an
approved manual of Best Management Practices (BMPs). The MS4 Permit requires the City to
use an approved manual. Tukwila adopted the King County Surface Water Design Manual and
all its appendices and correlations to control construction permits along with public and private
operations and maintenance of all components of the surface water system, including
groundwater.
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
Because the City has levees along parts of the Green/Duwamish River to reduce flood potential,
it is necessary for the City to coordinate with County and federal officials and neighboring local
jurisdictions, on maintenance and rebuilding of the levees and ensuring that federal
certification is continued, where applicable. Also, due to the listing of Chinook salmon and
other aquatic species under the Endangered Species Act and Corps of Engineers policies limiting
vegetation on levees, the City needs to be involved in efforts to achieve good riparian
conditions, while not compromising the integrity of levees or losing federal certification.
The King County Flood Control District prioritizes the design and implementation of a multi -
benefit floodplain approach that reduces flood risks, ensures public safety and restores river
ecosystems in an equitable and just manner. The ten multi -benefits include: equity and social
justice, environmental justice, habitat protection and salmon recovery, jobs and sustainable
livelihoods, open space conservation, productive and viable agriculture, recreational
opportunities, resilient communities and ecosystems, sustainable and clean water, and
sustainable development.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMEN 1
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
EARTH RESOURCES
The definition of steep slopes should be clarified, and new policies are needed to require
setbacks and better protect trees on steep slopes.
TREES AND THE URBAN FOREST
The City needs to establish policies and programs to protect and enhance the urban forest,
including enforcing and continually improving policies for protecting trees, increasing tree
canopy, and ensuring sufficient resources to properly maintain trees, improve tree health, and
reduce potential hazards to the public.
GOALS, POLICIES AND STRATEGIES
Environmental Quality and Stewardship
GOAL 1 The City's air, land, and water resources are restored and protected for future
generations and are resilient to a changing climate10
POLICIES
Policy 1.1
Policy 1.2
Policy 1.3
14
Anticipate the effects of climate change by incorporating Best Available Science,
considering long-term climate change projections, and planning for adaptative
management of City regulations and internal procedures, as needed.
Develop and implement environmental strategies that use integrated and
interdisciplinary approaches to environmental assessment and planning, in
coordination with local jurisdictions, tribes, and other stakeholders.'
Collaborate with federal, state, and tribal12 fish and wildlife agencies to identify
priority habitats and species, to establish appropriate protections to ensure no
net loss of ecological functions and values.13
10 Consultant addition
11 Policy K_EN-2;
12 EN-2
13 Consultant addition; other recycling policies are in Capital Facilities: partial K_EN-2
14 This policy should be eliminated for conciseness. Protection of priority species and habitats is included
in Policy 4.1.2 and 4.1.4
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 1.4
Policy 1.5
Policy 1.6
Provide guidance to assist applicants in understanding and complying with
federal and State fish and wildlife regulations for all public and private sector
projects.
Develop and implement programs that encourage and incentivize Tukwila
residents and businesses to take active measures to protect, enhance, and plan
for changing conditions of Tukwila's natural environment to increase climate
resiliency. Such measures could include, but are not limited to, the use of Low
Impact Development (LID) techniques, natural streambank restoration, non -toxic
lawn care, and composting and recycling.15
Identify and preserve regionally significant open space networks through
implementation of the Regional Open Space Conservation Plan. Develop
strategies and funding to protect lands that provide the following valuable
functions:
a. Ecosystem linkages and migratory corridors crossing jurisdictional
boundaries;
b. Physical or visual separation providing buffers between incompatible uses;
c. Active and passive outdoor recreation opportunities;
d. Wildlife habitat and migration corridors that preserve and enhance
ecosystem resiliency in the face of urbanization and climate change;
e. Preservation of ecologically sensitive, scenic, or cultural resources; and
f. Urban green space, habitats, and ecosystems.16
GOAL 2 An educated public that understands the importance of protecting and
enhancing the functions and values of environmentally critical areas, including
fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas, wetlands, floodplains, and the
Green/Duwamish River, and actively assists in their stewardship.
POLICIES
Policy 2.1
Develop and expand free or low-cost educational programs and materials for the
community about the benefits of protecting and enhancing the City's
environmentally critical areas, the urban forest and wildlife habitat, and
individual responsibilities for their stewardship in a changing climate. The City
should continue to develop and support community -oriented wildlife
15 Consultant: Consider incentivizing measures that are resilient to a changing climate. Other practices that utilize
the most current water conservation technologies and strategies such as water -smart landscapes, rainwater
harvesting, and green infrastructure should also be considered and incentivized.
16 K_EN-20, a-f
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NATURAL ENVIRONMEN 1
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 2.2
18
19
20
Policy 2.3
educational programs, such as the Tukwila Backyard Wildlife Program, and
communicate the requirements of City environmental regulations so as to
maximize compliance and minimize code enforcement actions and
environmental degradation.17
Provide individualized education and technical support to residential property
owners and general guidance to businesses regarding environmental
stewardship and climate change resiliency strategies.
Collaborate with environmental organizations and businesses to support
recruiting and training of environmental stewards, identify and sponsor
restoration projects, incorporate climate change -focused strategies and provide
logistical support for their work. Action should be taken to encourage expanding
the citizen volunteer base in Tukwila for restoration and enhancement of the
City's natural areas to promote the continued health of these systems.21
The lack of a Goal #3 will be addressed with final formatting
Water Resources
GOAL 4 Water resources that function as a healthy, integrated system; provide a long-
term public benefit from enhanced environmental quality; are resilient from a
range of climate -related events including increased flood events, changes in
water temperature, and drought; and have the potential to reduce public
infrastructure costs.zz
17 Combined with Policy 4.3 to enhance conciseness.
18 Combined into 4.3.1
19 Removed — redundant with Goal 2.
20 This policy should be eliminated and combined with Policy 4.3.2.
21 This policy should encourage collaborative efforts with the community to help ensure ecosystem functions are
retained and are resilient to climate change.
22 Climate change is anticipated to impact water resources by increasing the frequency and severity of flooding and
temperature -related impacts.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Wetlands/ Fish And Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
GOAL 5 Vital and self-sustaining fish and wildlife habitat areas and habitat corridors
are protected and restored and that provide, where appropriate, opportunities
for recreational and educational uses.23
POLICIES
Policy 5.1
25
Policy 5.2
Policy 5.3
Restore, protect, and enhance watershed functions and values through
environmentally critical area restoration projects on public and private land to
build resilience to climate change through ecological solutions. Restoration
projects should improve habitat corridors and connections, particularly in
riparian management zones and floodplain wetlands, wherever feasible.24
Develop best management practices (BMPs) for stormwater management and
related maintenance activities to avoid impacts to riparian management zones or
other environmentally critical areas. Where riparian vegetation is disturbed
through development or maintenance activities, restoration should be required
to preserve the functions and values of the habitat.26
Identify staff, financial support, or funding opportunities for restoration projects,
wherever feasible, to enhance anadromous fish habitat in riparian management
zones, wetlands and the Green/Duwamish River, including projects identified in
the Shoreline Master Program (SMP) Habitat Restoration Program, the Water
Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9 Salmon Habitat Plan, WRIA 9 Duwamish-
Green Watershed Restoration and Enhancement Plan, or other regional
watershed restoration plans.27
Policy 5.4 Ensure that new development, open space protection efforts, and mitigation
projects support the State's streamflow restoration law. Promote robust,
23 The inclusion of habitat corridors will aid in the protection of the function and values of fish and wildlife habitat
conservation areas, as well as other environmentally critical areas.
24 Supporting restoration opportunities that reconnect floodplain wetlands and restore natural processes will
improve water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and mitigate impacts of flooding and erosion. When planning and
prioritizing restoration projects it will be important to identify locations where these efforts will be most beneficial
and effective in the long-term.
25 This policy should be eliminated and combined with Policy 4.5.1 for conciseness.
26 This policy should plan for increased stormwater management demands associated with increased flood events
to avoid the potential for overflow events and related adverse environmental impacts.
27 This policy should be broadened to include enhancement of anadromous fish habitat, including salmonids, and
utilization of regional Watershed Restoration Plans, when available.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 5.5
Policy 5.6
healthy, and sustainable salmon populations and other ecosystem functions,
working closely within WRIA 9 and utilizing adopted watershed plans.28
Prohibit piping of watercourses, except where unavoidable for access purposes.
Wherever feasible and practical, encourage removal of piped sections of
watercourses when permitting any new or redevelopment activities to improve
riparian habitat functions and values.29
Prohibit creation of new fish barriers and, where possible, encourage elimination
of existing barriers to fish passage through implementation of capital
improvement projects, coordination with regional partners and the WRIA 9 Lead
Entity to seek funding opportunities, and by providing incentives to private
sector development.39
GOAL 6 Riparian management zones, floodplains, wetlands, and their buffers are
protected from encroachment and degradation and improved through impact
avoidance, mitigation, enhancement and restoration projects to increase
resiliency to impacts from climate change31
POLICIES
Policy 6.1
Regulate land use and development, using Best Available Science, to protect and
improve natural vegetation and hydrology, habitat corridors, and open spaces,
to prevent significant erosion, sedimentation, or degradation of areas of
potential geologic instability, wetlands, floodplains, fish and wildlife habitat
areas and their associated buffers.32
Policy 6.2 Ensure mitigation sequencing is applied to avoid or minimize impacts to
environmentally critical areas, consistent with federal and State guidelines.33
28 En-10
29 This policy should be revised to expand encouragement of removal of piped watercourses for any type of
development review and highlights the purpose of removal.
3° Working with regional partners will strengthen this policy and lead to better long term collaboration and results.
31 Supporting restoration opportunities that reconnect floodplain wetlands and restore natural processes will
improve water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and mitigate impacts of flooding and erosion.
32 Wildlife and plant species and habitats already strained by urban fragmentation will be further stressed by
climate change. Consideration of habitat corridors and open spaces will aid in the protection of the function and
values of environmentally critical areas.
33 This policy should be revised to update the reference to environmentally critical areas.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 6.3
Policy 6.4
Policy 6.5
Policy 6.6
Policy 6.7
Require and enforce mitigation in order to ensure no net loss of environmentally
critical area functions, as well as mitigation designed to replace environmentally
critical area acreage lost due to development.34
Ensure the effectiveness of environmentally critical area mitigation by improving
City oversight, tracking, and monitoring of mitigation sites. 35
Allow off -site wetland mitigation only when a site -specific study, prepared by a
qualified professional, documents that there are no feasible opportunities for
on -site mitigation, is greater functional benefit, no significant adverse impact to
the drainage sub -basin, and no significant adverse impact to existing wetlands or
riparian management zones.36
Consider creating a City in -lieu fee program for future wetland mitigation, or
collaborate with King County to establish in -lieu fee sites in Tukwila for wetland
restoration projects, including projects along the Green/Duwamish River
shoreline, when a site specific study, prepared by a qualified professional,
documents that there are no feasible opportunities for on -site mitigation.37
In collaboration with other agencies, develop a program to provide guidance to
property owners interested in restoring or enhancing -environmentally critical
areas, shorelines or associated buffers on their private property that public or
private sector projects can utilize to compensate for impacts on project sites that
lack opportunities for on -site mitigation.38
Water Quality and Quantity
GOAL 7 Protect, enhance and plan for changing conditions of Tukwila's water resources
for the benefits of recreation, fish and wildlife resources and habitat, flood
34 This policy should be revised to update the reference to environmentally critical areas.
35 Portions of the existing policy are requirements in the CAO. It is recommended to revise the goal to focus on
areas of improvement of implementation outside of the existing code requirements.
36 The policy should be reinforced to document that there are no opportunities for on -site mitigation in compliance
with mitigation sequencing.
37 The policy should note the importance of landscape -scale, watershed -based restoration and mitigation projects
and allow the City to consider off -site compensatory mitigation for projects in areas where compensatory
mitigation can be difficult or impractical to achieve.
38 This policy should provide additional specificity on the intent of the program to provide off -site mitigation
opportunities where private property owners are willing to allow project proponents to conduct restoration or
enhancement activities to compensate for impacts that have occurred on another site.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
POLICIES
Policy 7.1
Policy 7.2
Policy 7.3
Policy 7.4
Policy 7.5
protection, and open space to create a more climate resilient city for current
and future generations.39
Retrofit existing City surface water systems and improve surface water management
through use of low -impact development (LID) techniques for all new development and
redevelopment to improve the water quality of discharges.4o
Prevent and reduce pollution and sedimentation of water resources through
implementation of surface water, stormwater, and land clearing regulations and
inspections.41 42
Adopt policies, regulations, and processes, related to new or existing fossil fuel
facilities, which are designed to protect and preserve natural ecosystems from
the construction and operational impacts of fossil fuel facilities, and prepare for
and mitigate any impacts of fossil fuel disasters the community.43
Prohibit the application of pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides,
algaecides, rodenticides, etc.) to surface water systems or their buffers, unless
warranted to protect ecological functions of the system, and inform applicators
about State pesticide licensing regulations.44
Develop public outreach materials and implement management programs to
reduce the use of chemicals including fertilizers and pesticides, having negative
impacts on surface water systems or their buffers, unless warranted to protect
ecological values and functions. 45
39 Changing this language aligns this goal with sustainable practices that prioritize economic, environmental, and
social benefits as well as adding a climate element.
4o This language is in line with the Surface Water Management section of the Comprehensive Plan and is
encouraged by the WA Dept. of Ecology. This will also allow for the elimination of policy 4.7.6 as it was
incorporated into this policy.
41 While sediment is a type of water pollutant this policy should address all pollutants. Additionally, this policy
should be expanded to include all erosion, not just erosion associated with streambanks and channels, this
includes nearby hillsides and upland areas under development.
42 Similar to K-EN-24.
43EN-26,c&b
44 Was part of 4.7.3, but made a separated policy because of focus, application vs. education- see 4.7.4
45 Pesticides is an all -encompassing term and examples of pesticides do not need to be included. Nutrient loading,
partially caused by lawn and garden fertilizers, are a common cause of diminished water quality and should be
included in this language. Human health should not be included under this policy as this policy is applicable to
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 7.6
47 48
49
50
GOAL 8
POLICIES
51
Policy 8.1
Flood Control
GOAL 9
Prevent, mitigate, and remediate harmful environmental pollutants and hazards,
including light, air, noise, soil, and structural hazards, where they have
contributed to racialized health or environmental disparities, and increase
environmental resiliency in frontline communities.46
Surface water generated by urban development does not exceed pre -
development discharge rates.
Require that all proposed development applications identify hydrologic features,
both on- and off -site, that could be impacted by the project. Evaluate and
prevent project impacts on on -site and off -site floodplains, wetlands, drainage
features and springs to avoid adverse impacts to existing environmentally critical
area hydrology to meet today's climate needs and prepare for future climate
needs.52
Protect and enhance the natural flood attenuation functions of wetlands,
floodplains and floodways and plan for increased seasonal flooding associated
with climate change to reduce and prevent damage to life, property and public
safety.53
water quality and as such having good water quality will support human health. Applicators should already be
aware of State pesticide licensing regulations and if not then this could be considered one of the public outreach
materials that are discussed within this policy (put into new policy 4.7.4)..
46 EN-25
47 Eliminate this policy and combine it with Policy 4.7.3 as discussed above.
49 Eliminate this policy and combine it with Policy 4.7.2 as illicit surface water discharges would include pollutants
from stormwater and land clearing.
5° Eliminate this policy and incorporate it into policy 4.7.1.
51 Absorbed into 4.7.1
52 This policy could either be removed, as it should be a requirement of the development code however adding
language specific to climate change allows for it to be retained as a policy.
53 This changed language is in line with Climate Change projections for Washington State and will help utilize the
natural floodplain to protect the city of Tukwila.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
POLICIES
Policy 9.1
Policy 9.2
Policy 9.3
Policy 9.4
Policy 9.5
Policy 9.6
Restrict or prohibit development that could create a danger to health, safety,
and property due to potential flood hazards.54
Coordinate and fund holistic flood hazard management efforts through the King
County Flood Control District.55
Work cooperatively to meet regulatory standards for floodplain development as
these standards are updated for consistency with relevant federal requirements
including those related to the Endangered Species Act. 56
Wetlands provide services that have the potential to reduce impacts of climate
change. As such the City of Tukwila will promote wetland restoration and
enhancement throughout the city and ensure that development avoids and
minimizes impacts to wetlands and their buffers, and provides compensatory
mitigation to retain equal or greater wetland functions and values within the
same drainage basin or watershed, and results in no net loss of wetland area
except in limited circumstances..57
Plan for changes in seasonal flood events associated with climate change and
(educe flooding that adversely affects public health, safety, and general welfare,
and protect against flood damage through surface water and flood management
projects.58
Minimize adverse impacts to water resources by conserving native shoreline
vegetation or using bioengineering and natural solutions to enhance stream fe-
banks and shoreline stability and reduce hazards associated with slope failures
and erosion. Invasive plant removal and replacement of native trees and shrubs
should be prioritized over retention of low functioning vegetation..59
54 Complying with federal regulations is not optional. Eliminate this language as it is a requirement and should
already be occurring with development permits.
55 EN-12
56 EN-13
This revised policy is better in line with BAS and incorporates the climate element.
58 Climate change models predict an increase in winter rainfall events which has the potential to lead to increased
seasonal flooding. By planning for these events the city will be able to prevent or reduce the adverse impacts
associated with flood events.
59 This revision will allow for the abatement of noxious weeds and low functioning vegetation while encouraging
the retention of native plant species.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 9.7
Require mitigation to achieve the goal of no net loss of ecological functions and
maintenance of good water quality by requiring setbacks, buffers, and
stormwater treatment and detention facilities to adhere to BAS
recommendations and guidelines..6°
GOAL 10 (Levees) - MOVED TO CAPITAL FACILITIES
Earth Resources
GOAL 11
POLICIES
Policy 11.1
Policy 11.2
Policy 11.3
Protect the ecological integrity of the natural environment, including functions
and services, while allowing for compatible growth and development by
minimizing development in geologically hazardous areas and protecting surface
water features.61
In geologically hazardous areas, require areas where vegetation must remain
undisturbed, land disturbance minimized and cut -and -fill construction limited, to
protect slope stability on sites cleared for development. Require significant
replanting and maintenance upon completion of development.
Require setbacks for buildings and other infrastructure where needed, from the
top and/ or toe of steep slopes, to reduce risks of slope failure and risks to public
safety.
Require the use of erosion control measures and, where warranted, written
erosion and sediment control plans, to minimize erosion during and after
construction activities on steep slopes or other erosion -prone areas.
Policy 11.4 Utilize geotechnical reports and other existing resources to update the City's GIS data to
incorporate and maintain a geologically hazardous areas layer. 62
Policy 11.5 Ensure that proposed development projects in mapped coal mine hazard areas
adequately consider and mitigate for possible risks.
60 This policy revision will help demonstrate compliance with the GMA requirement of BAS.
61 By protecting the functions and services of the natural environment and reducing development in geologically
hazardous areas the city can help reduce costs associated with flooding, erosion, and other natural disasters.
62 The are many resources currently available that contain geologically hazardous areas information. The WA
Department of Natural Resources has a Geologic Information Portal available to the public at
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/geologyporta I.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 11.6
Actively manage protective forest canopies on geologically hazardous slopes,
both public and private through regulatory requirements, incentives,
investment, and partnerships.
Urban Forestry
GOAL 12
POLICIES
Policy 12.1
Policy 12.2
66
Policy 12.3
Trees are recognized by Tukwila citizens, businesses, City staff and decision -
makers for their benefits to the environment, climate adaptation, urban
infrastructure, and their aesthetic value.63
Develop a formal urban forest management plan to promote and guide
preservation, restoration and maintenance of a sustainable urban forest that is
consistent with tree canopy goals and ecosystem management priorities, using
the goals and policies of this chapter as a basis for guidance.64
Ensure that the benefits of trees are factored into site design, zoning and permit
decisions, including resistance to drought, retention of large or significant trees,
tree canopy considerations, and the preservation of open space, tree, and green
space.65
Continue to fund an urban forester/municipal arborist position within the City,
to provide expertise for urban forest management planning, incorporate climate
resiliency strategies, provide oversight of tree planting and maintenance, and
assistance to all City departments that have responsibilities for tree
management.67
63 Trees can aid in mitigating the impacts of climate change by providing shade, carbon storage and other related
benefits.
64 Urban heat island effect can be mitigated through establishment and retention of tree canopy. Open spaces and
native landscaping should be managed to maintain ecosystem functions and contribute to habitat connectivity on
a City-wide landscape -scale.
65 Development actions, such as converting forests into impervious surfaces, can increase the urban heat island
effect. Encouraging the preservation of open spaces and considering trees that are resistant to drought can help
reduce the impacts of climate change.
66 This policy should be eliminated and combined with Policy 4.12.2
67 A licensed arborist or urban forester benefits the City by providing guidance on appropriate strategies that will
improve the resiliency of planned or existing urban forests to the impacts associated with a changing climate.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 12.4 Educate the public, elected officials and City staff about the importance of urban
forest planning and management and benefits provided by trees in Tukwila.68
Policy 12.5
Policy 12.6
Policy 12.7
Policy 12.8
Policy 12.9
Develop tree valuation methods to reflect the value trees provide, including
considering the benefits that trees provide in a changing climate for use in
assessing fines, determining damages or estimating loss of tree benefits.69
Identify funding sources to support urban forestry planning and management,
and establish an urban forestry budget and account to preserve and enhance the
urban forest sites on publicly -owned property.70
Consider developing an "exceptional" or "heritage" tree program to foster tree
appreciation in the community and encourage retention of open and green
spaces.71
Enhance the urban tree canopy to provide wildlife habitat, support community
resilience, mitigate urban heat, manage stormwater, conserve energy, protect
and improve mental and physical health, and strengthen economic prosperity.
Prioritize places where Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color
communities; low-income populations; and other frontline community members
live, work, and play.72
Encourage public and partner organization involvement in urban forest
stewardship, through volunteer events, free training workshops, and other
related community events.73
GOAL 13 Overall City tree canopy increased in diversity and total cover, with an increase
in the use of native species, by 2034, and No Net Loss of canopy cover in
68 This policy should be expanded to include the importance of urban forest planning and management for clarity
and continuity with the other policies in this section.
69 The assessment of tree valuation should include the future benefits that trees provided in contributing to
climate resiliency, particularly for shade and carbon storage.
"This policy should be expanded to define the purpose of the urban forestry planning and management fund to
support City departments that have responsibilities for tree management and preservation.
71 Open spaces contribute to habitat connectivity and ecosystem functions. Retention of tree canopy can help
mitigate the urban heat island effect.
72 EN-11
73 This policy should be expanded to clarify "other means". Promotion of community events could help encourage
public participation and highlight the importance of urban forest stewardship.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
POLICIES
Policy 13.1
Policy 13.2
Policy 13.3
Policy 13.4
Policy 13.5
individual zoning categories, or
spaces74
environmentally critical areas and open
The City shall adopt and implement updated tree canopy goals and shall
continue to amend policies to support stormwater management and water
quality improvement in receiving waters. The City will provide mapping of City -
owned or operated properties with tree canopy no later than December 31,
2028, as based on available existing data.75
Promote and support a systematic approach to enhancing the city through
carefully planned plantings and ongoing maintenance of street trees, public
landscaping, and open spaces to support a sustainable and environmentally just
future for residents of Tukwila.76
Promote soil stability using natural drainage systems and retention of existing
native vegetation when determined feasible and practical by a qualified
geotechnical engineer in a site -specific assessment.77
Conduct forest practices within environmentally critical and shoreline areas in a
manner that ensures water quality, maintains or increases tree canopy cover,
and maintains native vegetation buffer strips sufficient to protect fish
populations and to avoid erosion of stream banks.78
Ensure that required replacement trees at maturity will provide an equivalent or
greater shade cover than the removed tree(s), and replacement trees are
suitable species fit for future conditions based on climate change models. This
74 This policy will be modified upon finalization of the 2023 tree inventory data; it has been broadened, while still
retaining the intent of increased canopy and no net loss. By proposing to increase diversity of trees, as well as total
canopy cover, the City will be more likely to resist the effects of a changing climate. Per the 2024-29 NPDES
permit, by December 31, 2028, Permittees will need to adopt and implement the City's updated tree canopy goals
and policies to support stormwater management and water quality improvement in receiving waters.
75 Per 2024-29 NPDES permit
76 Most of these policy points are implemented into other policies within this section. Proposed language
encompasses these points in addition to addressing the urban heat island effect which can have detrimental
effects on residents in underserved areas. By promoting and enhancing tree canopy cover and access to open
space the public welfare and urban habitat areas can be greatly improved.
77 It is important to promote the use of native vegetation to stabilize slopes when site conditions allow, however
certain circumstances may require other methods of soil stabilization.
78 This language will add clarity to the importance of the urban canopy in environmentally critical areas and the
role they play in maintaining ecological integrity of these areas.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
80 81 82 83
Policy 13.6
Policy 13.7
86
Policy 13.8
may result in the need to have multiple trees replace a single tree and will allow
for the flexibility of avoiding conflict with existing or future infrastructure and/or
public or private utilities.79
Promote the utilization of grants and other funding opportunities to develop
tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs for City parks, open
spaces, wildlife habitats and corridors, and other publicly owned lands.
Collaborate with other agencies, such as Washington's Department of
Transportation, to promote planting in highway interchanges and other locations
that are underserved or at higher risk to being vulnerable to the effects of
climate change.84
Collaborate with other government, non-profit organization, school and private
sector entities, to promote urban forest management and restoration, the use of
native plants in the urban landscape, and removal of impervious surfaces to
support the City's tree canopy cover goals and mitigate the urban heat island
effect.85
Evaluate current development requirements to identify opportunities to increase
tree canopy, and opportunities to remove pavement and install appropriate
plantings. Priority should be given to areas or zoning designations that are
currently underserved or lack proximity to public open spaces and recreational
areas.87
79 It is not always appropriate or desirable to have a species with a larger tree canopy. Preferred language would
result in greater shade cover without necessarily required a larger canopy from a single tree.
80 NG: We have this now.81 Added this last statement to 14-3.
81 Added this last statement to 14-3.
82 Eliminate this policy. It is repetitive of Policy 4.13.5, which we largely already have.
83 Eliminate this policy. It is repetitive of Policy 4.13.5
84 There are many opportunities for grants and other funding sources that should be utilized whenever possible.
The proposed language will help promote these funding sources while expanding the areas that can benefit from
these programs while preparing for a changing climate and making Tukwila a more equitable place for its
residents.
85 Broadening the language of this policy will help address not just the tree canopy but other factors that play a
role in mitigating the effects of a changing climate.
86 This policy should be eliminated as the code likely does not restrict increased plantings so long as they do not
interfere with utilities or other infrastructure, and it is already a policy to preserve existing trees or replace them
per Policy 4.13.5.
S7 This policy could be broadened to include all development standards, not just parking lot landscaping standards,
within each zoning designation while also promoting equity.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 14 Tukwila's streetscapes and landscaped areas are sustainable and attractive,
and its urban forest is healthy, diverse, and safe.
POLICIES
Policy 14.1
Policy 14.2
Policy 14.3
Policy 14.4
92
Conduct periodic tree/urban forest inventories and assess the health of trees
and forests in Tukwila's public spaces to determine maintenance needs and
restoration opportunities. Any restoration should be done in coordination with
Policy 4.13.8.88
Develop maintenance plans and programs for trees on City property or rights -of -
way to ensure that maintenance pruning is properly carried out, that diseases
and pest infestations are managed, that hazardous trees are identified and
managed in a timely manner to reduce risks, invasive vegetation is properly
managed, and any replacement trees are sustainably located following the
concept of "right tree, right place."89
Consistent with landscape code requirements, educate property owners,
property managers, City and public and private utility maintenance staff, and
landscape contractors to promote best practices for soil preparation, planting
techniques, pruning (including near utility lines), trenching, root protection, and
general tree care.90
Enforce landscape regulations including financial guarantees, monitoring and
maintenance to ensure successful plant establishment. Landscape code should
state qualified professional requirements for landscape design, installation and
maintenance.91
88 Periodic maintenance and coordination with restoration efforts supports the sustainability goal. 14.13.8 =
"Develop tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs for City parks and other publicly -owned lands.
Collaborate with other..."
89 Streetscapes and utility corridors must be managed for public safety and long-term sustainability. Ensuring that
tree management is based on expert advice that considers surrounding land use is important to reduce
maintenance needs and increase sustainability. This may involve a plan that provides approved lists of tree species
for specific land uses (e.g., city street, utility corridor).
90 Simplified policy language. The focus here is on education.
91 Simplified policy to apply more broadly. This revision is consistent with current regulations under TMC 18.52—
Landscape Requirements. Qualified professional standards are listed under Landscape Plan Requirements TMC
18.52.110. Current code requires professional certifications for design; BMPs are noted for installation and
maintenance.
92 This policy was eliminated and combined with Policy 4.14.4 above.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 14.5
94 95 96 97
Ensure landscape code considers wildlife habitat corridors and urban heat island
effect in landscape development standards. This includes —requiring a diversity of
tree species native to the ecoregion in landscape planting plans as site conditions
allow. 93
CLIMATE CHANGE
Goal 15: Tukwila infrastructure and investments enable Tukwila residents to make
choices that emit lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Policy 15.1
Policy 15.2
Adopt and implement policies and programs that support King County's target of
reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2040 (compared to a 2007
baseline), including net -zero emissions through carbon sequestration and other
strategies, by 2050. Evaluate and update these targets over time to incorporate
the latest climate science and statewide targets aimed at limiting the most
severe impacts of climate change and keep global warming growth under 1.5
degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit).98
Plan for development patterns that minimize air pollution and greenhouse gas
emissions, through the following actions:
a. Direct growth to Urban Centers and other mixed -use or high -density
locations that support mass transit, encourage non -motorized modes of
travel, and reduce trip lengths.99
93 Cleaned up policy language and included references to climate change stressors and resiliency strategies.
94 This policy should be eliminated. It is already covered by Policies 4.14.2 and 4.14.4 above. If a qualified
professional prepares the design and installs the trees (consistent with CMC 18.40.130), then the additional policy
language is unnecessary.
95 This policy should be eliminated; the city adopted a list of approved trees in 2017, plus it is redundant with
Policy 4.14.2. Appropriate street tree species should be covered in the "maintenance plans and programs for trees
on City property or rights -of -way" under Policy 4.14.2
96 This policy should be eliminated; it is generally covered under Policy 4.14.3 above. Specific requirements for
utilities may be incorporated into landscape regulations, but all projects should be held to professional standards.
A specific policy for transmission lines appears to be unnecessary.
97 This policy could be deleted. Environmentally critical area regulations require no net loss of
stream/wetland/buffer functions. The way this policy is phrased, it implies Net Ecological Gain is the goal, which is
more than required under No -Net -Loss. Recommend the City review the intent and consider deleting this policy if
No -Net -Loss standards are deemed sufficient. No -Net -Loss is what's required under the WAC 365-196-830(4).
98 EN-27
99 K_EN-28a.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 15.3
Policy 15.4
b. Through interjurisdictional and local efforts, facilitate modes of travel other
than single -occupancy vehicles including transit, walking, bicycling, and
carpooling;10°
c. Encourage the transition to a sustainable energy future by reducing demand
through efficiency and conservation, supporting the development of energy
management technology, and meeting reduced needs from sustainable sources.'°'
d. Support and provide incentives to increase the percentage of new
development and redevelopment— both public and private —to be built at
higher -performing energy and environmental standards.
e. Implement infrastructure design manuals that incorporate energy saving
strategies, and develop regulations that provide extra flexibility or density
bonuses to proposals that implement green building standards, such as the
Living Building Challenge or LEED certification.102
Reallocate public space dedicated to carbon intensive uses, such as single
occupant vehicle lanes and parking, toward transit, pedestrian, and bike
facilities.103
Develop minimum standards for rights -of -way and new private streets that
require facilities for safe protected bicycle and pedestrian routes to all
destinations."
Policy 15.5 Ensure all federal and state air quality standards are met and reduce emissions
of air toxics and greenhouse gases."
Policy 15.6
Policy 15.7
Recognize that dense development utilizes less resources per person, and
promote greater densities and mixed uses near Tukwila's urban centers and
high -capacity transit. Work with local transit and transportation agencies to
provide additional multi -modal access and transit frequency to underserved
areas.107
Recognize, protect, retore, and enhance Tukwila's natural resources, by
expanding or improving existing parks, wetlands, estuaries, and the urban tree
canopy, and enhance access to passive and active recreation areas, improving air
10o K_EN-28b and d
1°1 K_EN-4
102 K_EN28C and E
1°3 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
1°5 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
1°6 WAC 173-420-080, MPP-En-22
107 K_EN-28a, and d
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NATURAL ENVIRONMEN 1
Chapter X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 15.8:
Policy 15.9
and water quality, and improving opportunities for carbon sequestration in
Tukwila."
Prioritize investments in areas in proximity to underserved and historically
marginalized populations in order to ensure that all Tukwila residents have equal
access to public spaces, natural areas, the urban tree canopy, and the
opportunity to make low -emission choices in a low -pollutant environment,
regardless of their race, social, or economic status.109
In order to minimize air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, facilitate modes
of travel other than single -occupancy vehicles including transit, walking, bicycling, and
carpooling, plus, for trips that must be made via single -occupant vehicle, facilitate
electric vehicle adoption by creating requirements for electric vehicle charging
installations in residential and commercial developments.'
RELATED INFORMATION — to be added later
Natural Environment Background Report
Tukwila Sensitive Areas Map
Tukwila Shoreline Master Program
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Enhancement Plan
Abandoned Underground Coal Mine Hazards Assessment Report
Tukwila Urban Tree Canopy Assessment
Tukwila Municipal Code, Chapter 18.45
Green Tukwila 20-year Stewardship Plan
108 K_EN-32
1°9 K_EN5 and EN-25
110 EN-30
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
WHAT YOU WILL FIND IN THIS CHAPTER:
• Adescription of the natural resources and sensitive environmentaly-critica' areas present in
the City ofTukwila;
• Adiscussion of local Cityefforts and citizen volunteer programsto protectTukwila's natural
resources; and
• Goals and Policies for protecting sensitive natural resources, including the urban forest.
PURPOSE
This element of the Comprehensive Plan addresses the City's natural environment — air, land
and water resources — by guiding future development in a manner that protects the
community's environment, improves the quality of life in the City, and provides reasonable
protection of community residents from natural hazards.
To be healthy and sustainable, a community must integrate the natural environment into urban
development design. The natural environment and its associated ecological processes provide
many benefits to Tukwila, including:
• Visual relief from the hard, constructed surfaces of urban development;
• Fish and wildlife habitat;
• Air and water quality;
• Surface water runoff management;
Recreational opportunities for interaction with nature;
• Human health; and
• Aesthetic and economic benefits.
Trees and vegetation also provide critical environmental services which, in turn, affect the
quality of life of residents, visitors, daytime workers and neighboring communities. Some of the
benefits of trees are shown below.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ELEMENT
To assist with the update of this Comprehensive Plan Chapter, the City formed the Tukwila Tree
and Environment Advisory Committee, made up of members of the business and residential
community. The Committee, working for over 9 months between 2012 and 2013, reviewed
previous Comprehensive Plan policies in the Natural Environment and Community Image
strategies.'
101d information; deleted
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed change
The City conducted a required periodic update of its critical areas regulations in 2018 and
2019.2 This included a Public Outreach Plan that used a variety of methods to notify the general
public and property owners including an open house, mailings, notice in a stormwater bill,
postings on the City's website, creation of a broadcast email group that received updates of the
process, and articles in the City's Hazelnut newsletter.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Goals and Policies for the protection of Paleontological and Archaeological Resources
previously listed in this element have been moved to the Community Image Element.
Benefits of Trees
ENVIRONMENTAL
Fish and wildlife habitat
Improved air quality
Storm water mitigation
Reduced energy consumption
Sequestration of carbon
Stabilization of slopes
SOCIAL
Lower crime rates
Mental health benefits
Improved physical health
Aesthetics and quality oflife
ECONOMIC
Consumer satisfaction/ increased spending
Increased property values
Reduced maintenance of road surfaces (shade)
Green infrastructure — reduced cost over installing and maintaining surface water infrastructure
The Natural Environment Element sets forth goals and policies to guide the protection and
management of wetlands, watercourses, springs, fish and wildlife habitat areas, and
geologically hazardous areas — collectively called "environmentally criticalscnsitivc areas". It
also includes goals and policies related to flood management, surface water management,
water quality, and the urban forest (the combination of trees, shrubs and other plants that
make up the formal landscaped areas of the City and the natural areas in our parks and on
private property).
Tukwila Pond serves as both wetland habitat and temporary stormwater storage.
[Image]
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Southgate Creek is an example of a watercourse with little riparian protection from urban
impacts.
[Image]
THE STATE OF TUKWILA'S URBAN ENVIRONMENT
Tukwila encompasses about nine square miles, and much of the city lies within an extensive
valley centered on the Lower Green/Duwamish River watershed. The valley is virtually flat and
almost entirely built out except for the currently undeveloped newly annexed Tukwila South
area, which is slated for development over the next 10 to 15 yc\ors. The upland areas of the City
have rolling topography and numerous areas with steep and potentially unstable slopes. Many
of the steep hillsides are forested with second- or third -growth trees and understories with a
mix of native and invasive vegetation. These areas — together with the City's numerous water
resourcesstreams, wetlands, springs and the River — provide important fish and wildlife habitat
that coexist with the built environment. The following is a summary of conditions in the
constituent elements of Tukwila's environment.
WETLANDS AND WATERCOURSES
As urban development has occurred, natural drain —age corridors have been altered or placed in
culverts, and wetlands have been filled. Remnant wetlands remain in some of the City's parks,
on undeveloped slopes (formed by springs and groundwater seeps), in freeway interchanges,
and in other areas of the City. Wetlands and watercourses have been provisionally identified
and mapped on the City's Sensitive Environmentally Critical Areas Map. The City has purchased
Tukwila Pond and Macadam wetland for preservation. Tukwila Pond serves as both a wetland
and temporary storm water storage pond for commercial development on its north side.
Macadam wetland collects mostly natural surface water from the steep slopes located on its
east side.
FISH SPECIES IN TUKWILA
Fish species found in the Green/Duwamish River include the following:
Cutthroat trout
Puget Sound Chinook salmon (threatened)
Puget Sound Steelhead (threatened)
Chum salmon
Coho salmon
Pink salmon
Sockeye salmon
Bull trout (threatened)
Resident Cutthroat trout are found in Tukwila's streams, as well as other fish and aquatic
species.
Cutthroat trout photo courtesy of Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Stream alterations have affected wildlife and fish habitat. There are few remaining open
channels in the four main streams in Tukwila (Johnson Creek, Gilliam Creek, Southgate Creek
and Riverton Creek), which have been channelized, re —located and piped for much of their
length. Construction of urban streets and highway systems and driveways required
watercourses to be placed in culverts, which have blocked or made fish passage difficult. All the
streams discharge into the Green/Duwamish River.
Stormwater Run-off — coupled with steep slopes in the upper reaches of Gilliam, Southgate and
Riverton Creeks — has caused scouring and erosion in the stream channels, resulting in
deepened ravines with steep banks, instability, bank erosion and down —stream sedimentation.
The lower reaches of Tukwila's streams are generally lacking in pools and woody debris, which
are important for good fish habitat. Thus, the open reaches of Tukwila's streams are generally
in deteriorated conditions with generally poor riparian habitat and narrow buffers. In fact,
many tributaries of the urban watercourses flow in road —side ditches with little protection from
urban impacts. Recent City -led projects to remove flap -gates are working at enriching stream
habitat at River outlets by removing barriers, increasing complexity, replanting and increasing
hydrologic connectivity.
FISH AND WILDLIFE
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has mapped and identified priority
habitats and species in Tukwila to ensure their protection and management. They include: the
Green/Duwamish River; reaches of Gilliam Creek, Southgate Creek and Riverton Creek; riparian
areas (areas adjacent to streams and rivers) and freshwater wetlands. Also mapped are wetland
complexes and Johnson Creek in Tukwila South.
The Shoreline Master Program provides more detail on the City's involvement with the Water
Resource Inventory Area 9 (WRIA 9) and the Green/Duwamish River Salmon Habitat
Enhancement Plan, which is intended to restore habitatguides local sponsor restoration
planning and implementation for Chinook salmon habitat and other species.
Volunteers removing invasive blackberry - Duwamish River Shoreline Restoration Project
[Image]
Community volunteers stocking Coho salmon in Southgate Creek.
[Image]
Pacific tree frog at wetland restoration site.
[Image]
Tukwila residentscitizens and businesses are actively involved in stewardship, wildlife
protection, and enhancement through City -sponsored activities such as the Backyard Wildlife
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Program, projects to restore habitat and Green Tukwila, as well as in private initiatives -to
restore shorelines and open spaces; and and a salmon rearing project that involves school
children, State wildlife officials and local businesses in annualjy stocking of and incubate -Coho
salmon eggs in Southgate Crccklocal creeks. In addition, tThe City's NPDES program works to
educate citizens, businesses and school age children on ways to improve water quality and
directly benefit salmon habitat.
Waterfowl areas in Tukwila include Tukwila Pond and the wetlands in Tukwila South, both of
which provide important winter habitat for migrating waterfowl and permanent habitat for
other waterfowl. Over More than 50 species of birds have been recorded at Tukwila Pond.
Other bird species found in Tukwila include osprey, which regularly nest near the Green/
Duwamish River; hawks; and passerine birds. Other wildlife species found in Tukwila include
harbor seals, coyotes, deer, Eastern Grey squirrels, beaver, otter, nutria, turtles (mostly non-
native red -eared sliders), garter snakes, snails, amphibians (non-native bullfrogs, native Pacific
tree frogs and salamanders), opossum and raccoons.
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
Tukwila's urban center, the light industrial and manufacturing area south of South 180th Street,
part of Tukwila South, and Fort Dent Park are protected from flooding of the Green River by
levee systems. The City participates in the National Flood Insurance Program administered by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which has mapped regulated flood -plains
in Tukwila. Mapped floodplains and the levee systems are explained in more detail in the
Shoreline Element of the Comprehensive Plan.
Impervious surfaces and the elimination eduction of natural wetland functions have caused
localized flooding from streams periodically, at varying levels of severity on some areas of
public right-of-way, as well as private properties where inadequate or no surface water
infrastructure exists. The City has resolved many of the flooding problems through
improvements to surface water infrastructure. For example, periodic flooding from Gilliam
Creek n ar Southccntcr Boulevard was resolved through the construction of a regional
detention facility that serves the area of Southccntcr Boulevard west of Interstate 5 . The
surface water management system (surface water utility) is described in more detail in the
Utilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan. More detailed information on localized flooding
problems is provided in the City's Comprehensive Surface Water Management Plan.
EARTH RESOURCES AND GEOLOGIC HAZARDS
The City has mapped areas with steep and unstable slopes, including active landslide areas, to
ensure that there is adequate review of slope stability if development is proposed in these
areas. In addition, there are coal formations on the southwest side of Interurban Avenue South,
3 Old reference; removed
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4x
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
some of which have been mined and are defined as environmentally critical sensitive areas
based on the City of Tukwila Abandoned Underground Coal Mine Hazard Assessment, May
1990.
WATER QUALITY
The Although the City does not have ongoing monitoring programshas conducted; periodic
Wwgater Qquality studies that have indicated that Tukwila's streams and the Green/Duwamish
River suffer from poor water quality due to surface stormwater runoff, small buffers, and
suboptimal vegetation. Rain events wash contaminants off rooftops, driveways, sidewalks,
parking lots and roads into the watercourses. Runoff from these areas can contribute to high
temperatures in urban streams and can carry contaminants into streams and wetlands.
Many nliewe developments are required to implement Green Stormwater Infrastructure4 and
comply with have flow control and water quality treatment facilities requirements such as
sediment removal and oil water separatorsModular Wetlands, Trcc Wells and Pervious
Pavements that arc intended to moderate and treat the -discharges that flow directly
intotowards streams. There are, however, , but there are still areas of Tukwila where runoff
from impervious surfaces discharges directly to streams and the river with no treatment. (See
Natural Environment Element Regulatory Background Report for more information on water
quality.)
Riparian habitat plays a valuable role in protecting stream water quality. Adequately -sized and
healthy riparian buffers help filter outeo mitigatt a variety of pollutant impacts. s, including
substances that can I ad t^ the d cplction of ^ str Riparian etea ca-n a-Isoand
sShade streams,--reducei-ng the high water temperatures that contribute to anaerobic stream
conditions, which have lethal effects te-on fish and other aquatic species. Unfortunately,
However, most of Tukwila's streams have poor quality, narrow riparian areas.
AIR QUALITY
Tukwila lies in the air quality region made up of King, Kitsap, Pierce and Snohomish counties.
Air quality is monitored and managed by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. Through the efforts
of the Clean Air Agency, all of King County as a whole currently generally has good air quality,
except for occasional periods when air quality in our area is considered a risk to health,
particularly for members of the population with respiratory conditionshowever, climate
conditions have increasingly had an impact on air quality in Tukwila and the region. Wildfires
have created air quality concerns as harmful chemicals and tin _particles suspended in the air
create health issues for the public. During these periods of smoke exposure, the City follows
4 "Green" stormwater infrastructure is designed to mimic nature and capture rainwater where it falls. See
Glossary.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
the guidance of regional, state, and national health, emergency management, and air quality
partners in providing public education and community response options.
Tukwila is divided throughout by significant transportation corridors, including Washington 599,
and Washington 518, as well as Interstates 5 and 405. These road systems have been found to
negatively impact community health. A study completed by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
(PSCAA) documented that some areas of Tukwila bear among the worst air quality health
impacts from road systems within King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Kitsap counties.
"Tukwila/Allentown" was identified as the most impacted of the "Highly Impacted
Communities", and the "Tukwila/Kent" area experienced the third worst air quality. Much of
that impact comes from diesel pollution, as well as industrial source pollution.
In addition, the Duwamish Valley south of Seattle suffers from higher particulate pollution
levels that are damaging to human health. This corridor provides valuable economic services to
the region in terms of transportation corridors, industry, and commerce, which comes at a cost
to the area's inhabitants. -
CLIMATE CHANGE
The impacts of climate change in Tukwila could affects several aspects of the natural
environment_as well as the provision of utilities to its citizcnsresidents. Climate modelling
indicates that the region will experience warmer temperatures, changing the precipitation
pattern towards less snow and more rain during the winter. This poses challenges to flood
hazard mitigation within Tukwila and the valley, and also will impact the regional water supply.
Climate change could causes rising sea levels to rise, which would affect the tidally -influenced
portions of the Green/Duwamish River, raising water levels in the river and causing tidal waters
to reach further upriver and into streams. This, in turn, could impact flood control hazard
mitigation measures and fish and wildlife habitat, with particular detriment to salmon. Other
possible effects of climate change could include new and increased insect infestations in the
City's urban forest; changes in wildlife behavior and diversity; increased demands on City
resources; and reduced availability of water supplies for drinking water, irrigation of gardens,
landscaped areas, street trees and parks.
Increases in temperatures could exacerbate existing heat island effects in the highly developed
areas of the City where there is a significant amount of impervious surface (buildings, streets,
and parking Tots). Recently, King County created a heat maps, showing how Tukwila, with a
relatively large paved footprint, can reach extremely high temperatures and is unable to cool at
night during extreme heat events. Tukwila residents and workers are thus a —being
ryincreasingly exposed to heat -related illness, at an inequitable rate as compared to
other parts of the region. This underscores the importance of increasing tree canopy in these
shttps://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/elected/executive/constantine/news/release/2021/j une/23-heat-mapping-results
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
areas to help reduce temperatures during the summer months, particularly over impervious
surfaces such as parking lots. High water temperatures are already a problem for salmon in the
Green/Duwamish River, where there is a lack of shade from trees along the shoreline in many
areas. Restoration plantings and maintaining large trees on the shoreline will help improve
conditions for salmon in the river and in its tributaries, and help to reduce even greater water
temperatures that could be caused by climate change.
TUKWILA'S URBAN FOREST6
Thc "City of Tukwila Urban Trcc Canopy Assessment," completed in 2012, quantifies existing
urban tree canopy as well as impervious surfaces, surface water, grasslands and bare soils. Thc
assessment forms thc basis for several new goals and policies related to thc urban forest. Sec
thc assessment report appended to this chapter of thc Comprehensive Plan.
The results of the study show that Tukwila has a current overall City wide average trcc canopy
cover of 25% and impervious surface of 51%. Thc residential zones range from 33% to 51%
canopy across 1,869 while the industrial and
from 9% to 19% across 2,780 acres. A tree engulfed by invasive English ivy.
[Image]
How Much arc Tukwila's Trccs Worth?
Thc value that Tukwila's trccs provide to the community in terms of air quality improvements is
$'194,000, as detailed 1n the table below.7
[Image]
The "City of Tukwila Urban Tree Canopy Assessment," was last updated 2012, although work is
underway to update the study8. The assessment quantifies existing urban tree canopy, as well
as impervious surfaces, surface water, grasslands and bare soils. Assessment information
shapes the basis for several new goals and policies relating to the urban forest. (See the
assessment report appended to this chapter of the Comprehensive Plan.)
The City is fortunate to have remnant stands of second: or third -growth native forests and high
good canopy coverage in its single familylow density residential areas_; on undeveloped steep
slopes; and in some of its parks (for example, Crystal Springs Park and Tukwila Park). However,
these forest stands lack active management and suffer from over -crowding, lack of diversity,
trces and Undcrstory vegetation in many of our parks and natural areas arc plagued with
infestations of invasive plants like blackberry and ivy, all of which compromisese their
sustainability. Trees in undeveloped areas are threatened by future development. Aging trees
6 NG: Has there been an update of the canopy report?
' Data is dated to 2015 — have been unable to do a recalculation for 2023
8 The 2023 canopy is completed — we are dissecting the data to finalize the summary at this time
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
l
in already_ developed residential and commercial areas become hazardous and require
removal, and are not always replaced with new trees. Many landslide hazard slopes in Tukwila
currently enjoy the protection of canopy coverage, however the lack of active management
leaves this protective factor vulnerable to threats.
The City has street trees of varying species, sizes, health, and maturity planted on City rights -of -
way throughout Tukwila. They range from large canopy trees to small canopy or young trees
that do not provide many benefits. Street trees often do not get replaced when they are
damaged or removed and do not all get the level of care or the conditions they need to thrive.
Shade trees are generally lacking in most of the City's commercial parking lots and other
landscaped areas. Trees in these areas are often improperly pruned or removed and not
replaced. Trees throughout the City are frequently damaged by installation or maintenance of
infrastructure and new development.
The Green/Duwamish River and the City's streams generally have narrow riparian buffers, the
result of development occurring before protective buffer widths were required grandfathercd
in from thc prc rcjulatory cra. These too -small buffers that have been impacted by
urbanization` over thc y qrs, and the increasing the -amounts of impervious surface, -aed
reducing the amount of urban forest -in these areas.in these ar as_. Some reaches of the river
are characterized by large native canopy trees (Foster Golf Course, for example), while in other
areas there is little to no tree canopy and large expanses of invasive vegetation instead. Trees
have been removed from the Green River levee; south of SR 405; to meet Corps of Engineers
requirements. New efforts to increase multi -benefit approaches to flood control may take
ecology further into account.
Several environmental restoration projects to enhance the urban forest have been completed
e-r-and also are underway in the City's parks, wetlands, and streams, and along the Duwamish
River. Trees have been planted along the river by the King County as mitigation for removal of
trees elsewhere. The City also plants hundreds of trees in its parks each year; requires trees as
part of landscaping for commercial, industrial, office and multi- family developments; and
requires tree replacement in environmentally criticalsensitive areas.
However, .-the City does not have, however, a comprehensive written urban forestry plan,
street tree, or other program in place to ensure retention, protection, and maintenance of a
healthy urban forest across all areas of the City. A program to improve the urban forest should
include the following emphasisaspects:
• Preservation ofe existing trees and forest;
• Preservatione and improvement of the "tree -growing" environment (i.e., provide adequate
growing conditions for trees); a-n4
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
• Planting for the long term (i.e., ensuringe that the right tree is placed in the right place with;
sufficient provisions for tree maintenance and care)i
• Monitoring for emerging threats to the urban forest; and
• Promotion ofe the environmental equity goals relatedthat should be realized twin the
urban forest.:
REGULATIONS
In addition to the State Growth Management Act, many regulations at the federal, State, and
local levels apply to the management of Tukwila's natural environment. More information can
be found in the Background Report for this Element.
ISSUES
In the Natural Environment Element, There are several key issues are addressed that reflect
new community priorities and respond to new regulations at the local, regional, State, and
federal levels addressed in the Natural Environment Element. The goals and policies that follow
respond to these identified issues.
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY, COMMUNITY EDUCATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
In order to foster best practices for protecting Tukwila's environmental quality, improve the
protection and restoration of the City's environmentally criticalsensitive areas and fish and
wildlife habitat, and improve air and water quality, the City needs to provide information and
education to the community in various forms. In addition, the City should continue to expand
efforts, in collaboration with other organizations and businesses, to engage the community
through hands-on environmental stewardship and restoration activities. Policies regarding the
protection of fish and wildlife and climate change are also important to incorporate into the
Natural Environment ChaptcrElement.
ENVIRONMENTALLY CRITICALSENSITIVE AREAS
Although Tukwila has enacted significant revisions to its Environmentally CriticalScnsitive Areas
regulations it 2004 and again it 20 0, over the years, most recently in a 201920, new
policies are needed to reflect the most current best available science information, and new
federal and State regulations and guidelines. Tukwila also needs to improve the protection of
watercourses, and find mechanisms and resources to ensure that compensatory mitigation is
successful for the long term. A great deal of Extcnsivc amounts of IcgaIIy nonconforming
development was legally established prior to current regulations, and continues to constitutes
te-negatively impact the quality of the City's buffers. To ameliorate the impact of these
9 NG: True that we need new policies?
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
damaging developments, ; the City should partner with, and provide incentives to, incentivizo
landowners to encourage pye-redevelopment that conforms to current
standards.rning fashion.
FISH AND WILDLIFE HABITAT
The listing of Puget Sound Chinook salmon and Bull Trout under the Endangered Species Act
has underscored the need for the City to protect and restore habitat for fish and other wildlife.
New policies, cContinued restoration efforts; and new sources of funding are needed to carry
out habitat restoration of habitat on the Green/Duwamish River and its tributaries. The City
must continue to be actively involved in shaping policies and programs and helping implement
the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Enhancement Plan, in collaboration with other local jurisdictions
and county, State and federal government agencies.
WATER QUALITY
More efforts are needed to improve and protect water quality in the City's wetlands,
watercourses, springs, and the Green/Duwamish River; therefore, the City needs to make
sureensure that adequate resources are available. Programs for monitoring water quality,
retrofitting surface water management systems where there are water quality problems, and
improving riparian buffers are important actions for the City to carry out.
SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT
With new State requirements for the management of surface water, the City must modify its
surface water regulations and begin implementing and requiring low -impact development
techniques for surface water system retrofits and for new development. The City operates its
street drain network (MS4) under a State issued NPDES Permit (Permit) and SAFE -manages the
ditches, swales, ponds, pipes, vaults, catch basins and manholes foI to be consistent with
an approved manual of Best Management Practices (BMPs). The MS4 Permit requires the City
to use an approved manual. Tukwila adopted the King County Surface Water Design Manual
and all its appendices and correlations to control construction permits along with public and
private operations and maintenance of all components of the surface water system, including
groundwater.
FLOOD MANAGEMENT
Because the City has levees along parts of the Green/Duwamish River to reduce flood potential,
it is necessary for the City to coordinate with County and federal officials and neighboring local
jurisdictions, on maintenance and rebuilding of the levees and ensuring that federal
certification is continued, where applicable. Also, due to the listing of Chinook salmon and
other aquatic specie under the Endangered Species Act and Corps of Engineers policies
restricting limiting vegetation on levees, the City needs to be involved in efforts to achieve good
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
riparian conditions, while not compromising the integrity of levees or losing federal
certification.
The King County Flood Control District prioritizes the design and implementation of a multi -
benefit floodplain approach that reduces flood risks, ensures public safety and restores river
ecosystems in an equitable and just manner. The ten multi -benefits include: equity and social
justice, environmental justice, habitat protection and salmon recovery, jobs and sustainable
livelihoods, open space conservation, productive and viable agriculture, recreational
opportunities, resilient communities and ecosystems, sustainable and clean water, and
sustainable development.
EARTH RESOURCES
The definition of steep slopes should be clarified, and new policies are needed to require
setbacks and better protect trees on steep slopes.
TREES AND THE URBAN FOREST
The City needs to establish policies and programs to protect and enhance the urban forest,
including establishing improvcdenforcing and continually improving policies for protecting
trees, increasing tree canopy, and ensuring sufficient resources to properly maintain trees,
improve tree health, and reduce potential hazards to the public. This Element provides new
goaI� Dnd policies to oddr„« the c i�
GOALS, POLICIES AND STRATEGIES
Environmental Quality and Stewardship
GOAL 1 The City's air, land, and water resources are restored and protected for future
generations and are resilient to a changing climate10.
POLICIES
Policy 1.1 Anticipate the effects of climate change by keeping abreast of current scientific
dataincorporating Best Available Science, considering long-term climate change
projections, and planning for adaptative management ofadapting City
regulations and internal procedures, as needed.
to Consultant addition
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 4.1.2 Develop and implement environmental strategies that use integrated and
interdisciplinary approaches to environmental assessment and planning, in
coordination with local jurisdictions, tribes, and other stakeholders. 11
Policy 1.3
Collaborate with federal, and Sstate, and tribal12 fish and wildlife agencies to
identify priority habitats species (endangered, threatened, sensitive and
candidate species) and priority habitats,pecies, to determine establish
appropriate protections and wildlife access measures to ensure no net loss of
ecological functions and values.l3
1.1.32 Identify impacts to wildlife from new development, and ensure protection of
priority fish and wildlife habitat including Osprey and Bald Eagle ncsts and
Chinook and Bull Trout habitat when issuing permits for development or
considering rczon. q.14
Policy 144.4-4 Provide guidance to assist applicants in understanding and complying
with federal and State fish and wildlife and endangered species regulations for
all public and private sector projects.
Policy 1.41.545 Develop and implement programs that encourage and incentivize Tukwila
residents and businesses to take active measures to protect, a -la -el -enhance, and
plan for changing conditions of Tukwila's natural environment to increase
climate resiliency. Such measures could include, but are not limited to, the use of
Low Impact Development (LID) techniques, natural streambank restoration, non-
toxic lawn care, and composting and recycling, among others.'
Policy
C1.6 Identify and preserve regionally significant open space networks through
implementation of the Regional Open Space Conservation Plan. Develop
11 Policy K EN-2;
12 EN-2
13 Consultant addition; other recycling policies are in Capital Facilities: partial K EN-2
14 This policy should be eliminated for conciseness. Protection of priority species and habitats is included
in Policy 4.1.2 and 4.1.4
15 Consultant: Consider incentivizing measures that are resilient to a changing climate. Other practices that utilize
the most current water conservation technologies and strategies such as water -smart landscapes, rainwater
harvesting, and green infrastructure should also be considered and incentivized.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 4.22
POLICIES
Policy 2.4,2,1
strategies and funding to protect lands that provide the following valuable
functions:
a. Ecosystem linkages and migratory corridors crossing jurisdictional
boundaries;
b. Physical or visual separation providing buffers between incompatible uses;
c. Active and passive outdoor recreation opportunities;
d. Wildlife habitat and migration corridors that preserve and enhance
ecosystem resiliency in the face of urbanization and climate change;
e. Preservation of ecologically sensitive, scenic, or cultural resources; and
f. Urban green space, habitats, and ecosystems.16
An educated public that understands the importance of protecting and
enhancing the functions and values of environmentally critical cnvironm nta y
critical cnsitivc areas, including fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas,
wildlife and fish habitat in th„ City'c tural „ a , wetlands, floodplains,
water -courses -and the Green/Duwamish River, and actively a -assists in heir
their stewardship.
Develop and expand free or low-cost educational programs and materials for
the community about the multiple benefits of protecting and enhancing the
City's environmentally criticalscnsitivo areas, flood plains, the urban forest and
wildlife habitat, and about individual responsibilities for their stewardship in a
changing climate. The City should continue to develop and support community -
oriented wildlife educational programs, such as the Tukwila Backyard Wildlife
Program, and communicate the requirements of City environmental regulations
so as to maximize compliance and minimize code enforcement actions and
environmental degradation.17
Policy 2.42 Provide individualized education and technical support to residential property
owners and general guidance to businesses regarding environmental
stewardship and climate change resiliency strategies.
4.2.3 Develop and continue to support community oriented wildlife educational
progFarns, suer as t e T4ackyar.l e-Program 18
16 K EN-20, a-f
17 Combined with Policy 4.3 to enhance conciseness.
1s Combined into 4.3.1
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 1.3 Increased number of Tukwila residents who arc trained as environmental stewards
and actively participate in environmental restoration and maintenance. 9
1.3.1 Sponsor joint City and citizen cl anup and restoration projects, and expand the
citizen volunteer base in Tukwila for restoration and maintenance of the City's
natural areas.
Policy 2.43 Collaborate with environmental organizations and businesses to support
recruiting and training of environmental stewards, identify and sponsor
restoration projects, incorporate climate change -focused strategies and provide
logistical support for their work. Action should be taken to encourage expanding
the citizen volunteer base in Tukwila for restoration and enhancement of the
City's natural areas to promote the continued health of these systems.'
The lack of a Goal #3 will be addressed with final formatting
Water Resources
GOAL 4,4 Water resources that function as a healthy, integrated system;_ provide a long-
term public benefit from enhanced environmental quality; are resilient from a
range of climate -related events including increased flood events, changes in
water temperature, and drought; and have the potential to reduce public
infrastructure costs.
Wetlands/ WateFc- /Fish And Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
GOAL 4.5 Vital and self-sustaining fish and wildlife habitat areas and habitat corridors
are protected and restored and that provide, where appropriate, opportunities
for recreational and educational uses.23
19 Removed — redundant with Goal 2.
"This policy should be eliminated and combined with Policy 4.3.2.
21 This policy should encourage collaborative efforts with the community to help ensure ecosystem functions are
retained and are resilient to climate change.
22 Climate change is anticipated to impact water resources by increasing the frequency and severity of flooding and
temperature -related impacts.
23 The inclusion of habitat corridors will aid in the protection of the function and values of fish and wildlife habitat
conservation areas, as well as other environmentally critical areas.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
POLICIES
Policy 5.4571 Restore, protect, and enhance watershed functions and values through
environmentally criticalsensitivo area restoration projects on public and private
ly owned land to build resilience to climate change through ecological solutions_.
Restoration projects should improve habitat corridors and connections,
particularly in riparian management zones and floodplain wetlands, wherever
feasible.24 s, and by working with property owners to restore/improve
environmentally criticalsensitive ar as on private property.
41.5.2 Recognize, protect and enhance the value of watercourse and river riparian
zones, springs and other natural ar as as wildlife corridors.'
Policy 5.45,32 Develop best management practices (BMPs) for stormwater
management surface water drainage and street related maintenance activities
to avoid impacts to riparian management zones or other environmentally critical
areasdisturbing or destroying native riparian vegetation. Where riparian veg-
etation is disturbed through development or maintenance activities, restoration
should be required to preserve the functions and values of the habitatrcstore
vegetation with native species.z6
Policy 5 45,4
Identify staff and financial support, or funding opportunities for
restoration projects, wherever feasible, to enhance salmonid anadromous fish
habitat in riparian management zones watercourses, wetlands and the
Green/Duwamish River, including projects identified in the Shoreline Master
Program (SMP) Habitat Restoration Program,. -the Water Resource Inventory
Area jWRIA) 9 Salmon Habitat Plan, WRIA 9 Duwamish-Green Watershed
Restoration and Enhancement Plan, or other regional watershed restoration
plans.2-7
Policy 5.4 Ensure that new development, open space protection efforts, and mitigation
projects support the State's streamflow restoration law. Promote robust,
24 Supporting restoration opportunities that reconnect floodplain wetlands and restore natural processes will
improve water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and mitigate impacts of flooding and erosion. When planning and
prioritizing restoration projects it will be important to identify locations where these efforts will be most beneficial
and effective in the long-term.
25 This policy should be eliminated and combined with Policy 4.5.1 for conciseness.
26 This policy should plan for increased stormwater man Bement demands associated with increased flood events
to avoid the potential for overflow events and related adverse environmental impacts.
27 This policy should be broadened to include enhancement of anadromous fish habitat, including salmonids, and
utilization of regional Watershed Restoration Plans, when available.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
healthy, and sustainable salmon populations and other ecosystem functions,
working closely within WRIA 9 and utilizing adopted watershed plans.28
Policy 54.5.5 Prohibit piping of watercourses, except where unavoidable for access purposes.
Wherever feasible and practical, to cr ate h althy riparian habitat, encourage
removal of piped sections of watercourses as part ofwhen permitting any new or
redevelopment and public projcctsactivities to improve riparian habitat
functions and values.29-
Policy 5.4:6 Prohibit creation of new fish barriers and, where possible, encourage elimination
ofe existing barriers to fish passage through implementation of capital
improvement projects, coordination with regional partners and the WRIA 9 Lead
Entity to seek funding opportunities, and by providing incentives to private
sector development.30
GOAL 4.6 Riparian management zones, floodplains, `"'atcrcoursc and their buffers,
wetlands, and their wetland buffers are protected from encroachment and
degradation and improved through impact avoidance, mitigation,
enhancement and restoration projects to increase resiliency to impacts from
climate change31
POLICIES
Policy 6.4,1 Regulate land use and development, using Best Available Science, to protect and
improve natural vegetation and hydrology, habitat corridors, and open spaces,
in order to prevent significant erosion, sedimentation, or degradation of areas of
potential geologic instability, wetlands, watcrcourscsfloodplains, fish and wildlife
habitat areas and their associated buffers.L
28 En-10
'This policy should be revised to expand encouragement of removal of piped watercourses for any type of
development review and highlights the purpose of removal.
3° Working with regional partners will strengthen this policy and lead to better long term collaboration and results.
31 Supporting restoration opportunities that reconnect floodplain wetlands and restore natural processes will
improve water quality, fish and wildlife habitat, and mitigate impacts of flooding and erosion.
32 Wildlife and plant species and habitats already strained by urban fragmentation will be further stressed by
climate change. Consideration of habitat corridors and open spaces will aid in the protection of the function and
values of environmentally critical areas.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 6.42 Ensure mitigation sequencing is applied to avoid or minimize impacts to
environmentally criticalscnsitivo areas, consistent with federal and State
guidelines»
Policy 6.43 Require and enforce mitigation in order to ensure no net loss of environmentally
criticalsensitive area functions, as well as mitigation designed to replace
environmentally criticalsensitive area acreage lost due to development.34
Policy 6.44 Ensure the effectiveness of environmentally criticalsensitive area mitigation by
requiring adequate environmentally criticalsensitive arc\a studies and mitigation
plans, the application of mitigation sequencing, financial assurances from project
proponents to ensure mitigation success, and by improving City oversight,
tracking, of maintenance and monitoring of mitigation sites.35
Policy 6.45 Allow off -site wetland mitigation only when a site -specific study, prepared by a
qualified professional, documents that there are no feasible opportunities for
on -site mitigation, is greater functional benefit, no significant adverse impact to
the drainage sub -basin, and no significant adverse impact to existing wetlands or
riparian management zoneswatcrcourses.36
Policy 6.46 Consider creating a City in -lieu fee program for future wetland mitigation, or
collaborate with King County to establish in -lieu fee sites in Tukwila for wetland
restoration projects, including projects along the Green/Duwamish River
shoreline, when a site specific study, prepared by a qualified professional,
documents that there are no feasible opportunities for on -site mitigation.37
Policy 64 6.7 In collaboration with other agencies, develop a program to provide guidance to
property owners interested in restoring or enhancing using their property for
sensitive environmentally critical areas mitigation or shorelines mitigation or
associated buffers on their private property that public or private sector projects
33 This policy should be revised to update the reference to environmentally critical areas.
34 This policy should be revised to update the reference to environmentally critical areas.
35 Portions of the existing policy are requirements in the CAO. It is recommended to revise the goal to focus on
areas of improvement of implementation outside of the existing code requirements.
36 The policy should be reinforced to document that there are no opportunities for on -site mitigation in compliance
with mitigation sequencing.
37 The policy should note the importance of landscape -scale, watershed -based restoration and mitigation projects
and allow the City to consider off -site compensatory mitigation for projects in areas where compensatory
mitigation can be difficult or impractical to achieve.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
can utilize to compensate for impacts on project sites that lack opportunities for
on -site mitigation.38
In collaboration with other agencies, develop a program to provide guidance to property
owners interested in using their property for environmentally criticalscnsitivc area
mitigation or shoreline mitigation.
Water Quality and Quantity
GOAL 4.7 Protect, enhance and plan for changing conditions of Tukwila's water resources
for the benefits of recreation, fish and wildlife resources and habitat, flood
protection, and open space to create a more climate resilient city for current
and future generations.39 The water quality in Tukwila's wetlands, watercourses,
fish and wildlife habitat areas and the Grccn/Duwamish River is improved over
time.
POLICIES
Policy 7.1
Policy 7.2
Retrofit existing City surface water systems and improve surface water management
through use of low -impact development (LID) techniques for all new development and
redevelopment to improve the water quality of discharges.40lmprove surface water
management and ensure provision of water quality treatment where required.
Prevent and reduce pollution strcoambank and channel erosion and
sedimentation of water resources through implementation of surface water
stormwater, and land clearing regulations and inspections.4142
Policy 7.3 Adopt policies, regulations, and processes, related to new or existing fossil fuel
facilities, which are designed to protect and preserve natural ecosystems from
38 This policy should provide additional specificity on the intent of the program to provide off -site mitigation
opportunities where private property owners are willing to allow project proponents to conduct restoration or
enhancement activities to compensate for impacts that have occurred on another site.
39 Changing this language aligns this goal with sustainable practices that prioritize economic, environmental, and
social benefits as well as adding a climate element.
40 This language is in line with the Surface Water Management section of the Comprehensive Plan and is
encouraged by the WA Dept. of Ecology. This will also allow for the elimination of policy 4.7.6 as it was
incorporated into this policy.
41 While sediment is a type of water pollutant this policy should address all pollutants. Additionally, this policy
should be expanded to include all erosion, not just erosion associated with streambanks and channels, this
includes nearby hillsides and upland areas under development.
42 Similar to K-EN-24.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
the construction and operational impacts of fossil fuel facilities, and prepare for
and mitigate any impacts of fossil fuel disasters the community.43
Policy 7.4 Prohibit the application of pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides,
algaecides, rodenticides, etc.) to surface water systems or their buffers, unless
warranted to protect ecological functions of the system, and inform applicators
about State pesticide licensing regulations.44
Policy 7.35
Initiate educational Develop public outreach materials and implement
management programs to reduce the use of chemicals including fertilizers and
pesticides, having negative impacts on the environment or human hcvlthsurface
water systems or their buffers, unless warranted to protect ecological values and
functions. 4s
Policy 7.6 Prevent, mitigate, and remediate harmful environmental pollutants and hazards,
including light, air, noise, soil, and structural hazards, where they have
contributed to racialized health or environmental disparities, and increase
environmental resiliency in frontline communities.46
41.7.1 To protect water quality, promote natural yard care, alternatives to grass lawns, and
proper waste management through educational programs and publicity.4
48
11.7.5 Continue City monitoring for illicit surface water discharges, and ensure that action is
taken to eliminate any such discharges.
improve the water quality of discharges where there arc significant water quality or fish
and wildlife benefits."
43EN-26,c&b
44 Was part of 4.7.3, but made a separated policy because of focus, application vs. education- see 4.7.4
45 Pesticides is an all -encompassing term and examples of pesticides do not need to be included. Nutrient loading,
partially caused by lawn and garden fertilizers, are a common cause of diminished water quality and should be
included in this language. Human health should not be included under this policy as this policy is applicable to
water quality and as such having good water quality will support human health. Applicators should already be
aware of State pesticide licensing regulations and if not then this could be considered one of the public outreach
materials that are discussed within this policy (put into new policy 4.7.4)..
46 EN-25
47 Eliminate this policy and combine it with Policy 4.7.3 as discussed above.
4g NG: Is this already a requirement?
49 Eliminate this policy and combine it with Policy 4.7.2 as illicit surface water discharges would include pollutants
from stormwater and land clearing.
50 Eliminate this policy and incorporate it into policy 4.7.1.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 8 Surface water generated by urban development does not exceed pre -
development discharge rates.
POLICIES
Policy 8.1
Demonstrate implementation of low impact development techniques through
grant funded public projects. Where feasible, incorporate such techniques into
City capital facilities projects. Provide technical assistance to developers, and
encourage the use of such techniques for stormwatcr management. 51
Policy 8.2 Require that all proposed development applications identify hydrologic features,
both on- and off -site, that could be impacted by the project. Evaluate and
prevent project impacts on on -site and off -site watercourscsfloodplains,
wetlands, drainage features and springs to avoid adverse impacts to existing
environmentally criticalscnsitive area hydrologyto meet today's climate needs
and prepare for future climate needs.52
Flood Control
GOAL 9 Protect and enhance The natural flood attenuation functions of wetlands,
floodplains and floodways and plan for increased seasonal flooding associated
with climate change to otected or restored anal s e e flooding fietential
is-reduce_dto-he and prevent damage to life, property and public safety.s3
POLICIES
Policy 9.1
Restrict or prohibit development that could create a danger to health, safety
and property due to potential flood hazards, by complying with federal
regulations.
Policy 9.2 Coordinate and fund holistic flood hazard management efforts through the King
County Flood Control District.55
51 Absorbed into 4.7.1
52 This policy could either be removed, as it should be a requirement of the development code however adding
language specific to climate change allows for it to be retained as a policy.
s3 This changed language is in line with Climate Change projections for Washington State and will help utilize the
natural floodplain to protect the city of Tukwila.
54 Complying with federal regulations is not optional. Eliminate this language as it is a requirement and should
already be occurring with development permits.
55 EN-12
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 9.3
Work cooperatively to meet regulatory standards for floodplain development as
these standards are updated for consistency with relevant federal requirements
including those related to the Endangered Species Act. s6
Policy 9.34 Wetlands provide services that have the potential to reduce impacts of climate
change. As such the City of Tukwila will promote wetland restoration and
enhancement throughout the city and ensure that development avoids and
minimizes impacts to wetlands and their buffers, and provides compensatory
mitigation to retain equal or greater wetland functions and values within the
same drainage basin or watershed, and results in no net Toss of wetland area
except in limited circumstances.Minimize the alteration of natural surface water
futures that retain or carry floodwaters (such as wetlands, natural flood plains
.,d &trca.,-,r 1 nd r cnt land aItcrationS that .. uld otcntial
flooding.s'
Policy 9.45 Plan for changes in seasonal flood events associated with climate change and
Reduce flooding that adversely affects public health, safety, and general
welfare, and protect against flood damage through surface water and flood
management projects.
Policy 9.66 Minimize adverse impacts to water resources by conserving native shoreline
vegetation or requiring the use using ef-bioengineering and natural solutions to
enhance stream fey banks and shoreline stability and reduce hazards associated
with slope failures and erosion. Invasive plant removal and replacement of
native trees and shrubs should be prioritized over retention of low functioning
vegetation.for bank stabilization or flood control projects, where technically
possible and not cost prohibitive.
Policy 9.5.7
Require mitigation to achieve the goal of no net loss of ecological functions and
maintenance of good water quality by requiring setbacks, buffers, and
stormwater treatment and detention facilities to adhere to BAS
recommendations and guidelines.reduce adverse environmental impacts from
engineered flood control measures on a case by case basis.6o
56 EN-13
'This revised policy is better in line with BAS and incorporates the climate element.
58 Climate change models predict an increase in winter rainfall events which has the potential to lead to increased
seasonal flooding. By planning for these events the city will be able to prevent or reduce the adverse impacts
associated with flood events.
"This revision will allow for the abatement of noxious weeds and low functioning_vegetation while encouraging
the retention of native plant species.
"This policy revision will help demonstrate compliance with the GMA requirement of BAS.
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112
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 10 (Levees) - MOVED TO CAPITAL FACILITIES
GOAL 4.10
The levee system south of 1 405 is constructed, maintained and certified to meet
the accreditation standards of the Federal Emergency Management Administration and the
City's Shoreline Master Program.
POLICIES
/1.10.1 Coordinate with King County Flood Control District and thc U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
to inspect and maintain thc City's levee system.
/1.10.2 Restrict Icvcc encroachments by adjacent property owners.
41.10.3 Continue to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to develop Icvcc vegetation
policies, consistent with Pacific Northwest conditions, that enhance habitat while at thc
game timc protecting public safety.
41.10.1 Coordinate with the City of Kent on flood control projects that affect both jurisdictions,
while complying with Tukwila's Shoreline Master Program.
Kamentation St togics
• egu-l-a-te uses, d-ceclopment and redevelopment — including essential facilities — in flood
plains, consistent with federal regulations.
• Prevent cumulative effects of obstructions in a flood zone by restricting development and
other actions to zero increse in flood elevation.
• Require flood proofing or elevation of structures above the base flood elevation when built
in a flood zone.
• Free age th-c use of LID for surface water management for new development or
redevelopment, where appropriate.
• Prohibit placement of structures or fill in the floodplain that would cause an increase in the
elevation of the "zero rise" floodway.
• Increase C4ty staff expertise in bioengineering techniques for bank stabilization.
• Pariciae i-n County wide flood control meetings sponsored by King County Flood Control
Earth Resources
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 4.11
POLICIES
Policy 11.1
Policy 11.2
Policy 11.3
natural e6rrfaGe water featurec are protected from Io s 1disruption or
channelization.Protect the ecological integrity of the natural environment,
including functions and services, while allowing for compatible growth and
development by minimizing development in geologically hazardous areas and
protecting surface water features.61
In geologically hazardous areas, require areas where vegetation must remain
undisturbed, land disturbance minimized and cut -and -fill construction limited, to
protect slope stability on sites cleared for development. Require significant
replanting and maintenance upon completion of development.
Require setbacks for buildings and other infrastructure where needed, from the
top and/ or toe of steep slopes, to reduce risks of slope failure and risks to public
safety.
Require the use of erosion control measures and, where warranted, written
erosion and sediment control plans, to minimize erosion during and after
construction activities on steep slopes or other erosion -prone areas.
Policy 411.4 Utilize geotechnical reports and other -'xisting resources to update the City's GIS data to
incorporate ana maintain a geologically hazardous areas la r�erincorporate information
from geotcchnical reports and documented landslide and erosion prone arc
into the City's GIS data. 62
Policy 11.5 Ensure that proposed development projects in mapped coal mine hazard areas
adequately consider and mitigate for possible risks.
Policy 11.6
Actively manage protective forest canopies on geologically hazardous slopes,
both public and private through regulatory requirements, incentives,
investment, and partnerships.
61 By protecting the functions and services of the natural environment and reducing development in geologically
hazardous areas the city can help reduce costs associated with flooding, erosion, and other natural disasters.
62 The are many resources currently available that contain geologically hazardous areas information. The WA
Department of Natural Resources has a Geologic Information Portal available to the public at
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/geologyportal.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Urban Forestry
GOAL 4.12
Trees are recognized by Tukwila citizens, businesses, City staff and decision -makers for their
benefits to the environment, climate adaptation, urban infrastructure, and
their aesthetic value.63_benefits to the environment, ability to sequester carbon,
capacity to lower urban heat, the role they play in urbanim•rovin_ urban
infrastructure and their aesthetic value.
POLICIES
Policy 12.1
Policy 12.2
Develop a formal urban forest management plan to promote and guide
preservation, restoration and maintenance of a sustainable urban forest that is
consistent with tree canopy goals and ecosystem management priorities, using
the goals and policies of this chapter as a basis for guidance.64
Ensure that the benefits of trees are factored into site design, zoning and permit
decisions, including resistance to drought, retention of large or significant trees,
tree canopy considerations, and the preservation of open space, tree, and green
space.65
/1.12.3 Ensure that regulations recognize that larger trees provide more benefits than small
trees, and that canopy over impervious surfaces is crucial to mitigating urban heating
and surface water interception.66
Policy 12.3
Continue Scck to create and fund an urban forester/municipal arborist position
Continue to expand the Urban Environmentalist's role position_ within the City,_;
or contract for such services, to provide expertise for urban forest management
planning, incorporate climate resiliency strategies, provide oversight of tree
63 Trees can aid in mitigating the impacts of climate change by providing shade, carbon storage and other related
benefits.
64 Urban heat island effect can be mitigated through establishment and retention of tree canopy. Open spaces and
native landscaping should be managed to maintain ecosystem functions and contribute to habitat connectivity on
a City-wide landscape -scale.
65 Development actions, such as converting forests into impervious surfaces, can increase the urban heat island
effect. Encouraging the preservation of open spaces and considering trees that are resistant to drought can help
reduce the impacts of climate change.
66 This policy should be eliminated and combined with Policy 4.12.2
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115
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
planting and maintenance, and assistance to all City departments that have
responsibilities for tree management.67
Policy 12.4 Educate the public, elected officials and City staff about the importance of urban
Policy 12.5
Policy 12.6
Policy 12.7
forest planning and management
and benefits provided by trees in Tukwila.68
Develop tree valuation methods to reflect the value trees provide, including
considering the benefits that trees provide in a changing climate for use in
assessing fines, determining damages or estimating loss of tree benefits.69
Identify funding sources to support urban forestry planning and management,
and establish an urban forestry budget and account to preserve and enhance the
urban forest sites on publicly -owned property.70
Consider developing an "exceptional" or "heritage" tree program to foster tree
appreciation in the community and encourage retention of open and green
spaces.71
Policy 12.8 Enhance the urban tree canopy to provide wildlife habitat, support community
resilience, mitigate urban heat, manage stormwater, conserve energy, protect
and improve mental and physical health, and strengthen economic prosperity.
Prioritize places where Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color
communities; low-income populations; and other frontline community members
live, work, and play.72
Policy 12.879 Encourage public and partner organization involvement in urban forest
stewardship, through through volunteer events, free training workshops, and
other meonsrelated community events.73
67 A licensed arborist or urban forester benefits the City by providing guidance on appropriate strategies that will
improve the resiliency of planned or existing urban forests to the impacts associated with a changing climate.
68 This policy should be expanded to include the importance of urban forest planning and management for clarity
and continuity with the other policies in this section.
69 The assessment of tree valuation should include the future benefits that trees provided in contributing to
climate resiliency, particularly for shade and carbon storage.
'This policy should be expanded to define the purpose of the urban forestry planning and management fund to
support City departments that have responsibilities for tree management and preservation.
'Open spaces contribute to habitat connectivity and ecosystem functions. Retention of tree canopy can help
mitigate the urban heat island effect.
72 EN-11
73 This policy should be expanded to clarify "other means". Promotion of community events could help encourage
public participation and highlight the importance of urban forest stewardship.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
GOAL 4.13 Overall City-wide tree canopy increased in diversity and total cover, with an
increase in the use of native species, ° by 2034, and No Net Loss
of canopy cover in individual zoning categories, or environmentally critical
areas and open spaces
74
Canopy cover in individual zoning categories increased by 20371 as listed below:*
Light Industrial zones: 3% increase from 20%, to achieve 23% cover
Heavy Industrial zones: 1% increase from 9%, to achieve 10% cover
Tukwila Urban Center and Tukwila South: 5% incr ase from 13%, to achieve 18% cover
Office and Commercial: 3% incr asc from 29 %, to achieve 32% cover
D I o f o% chi /I o
r-a�=icS: �-�[i-i�=rcTELdS�eT=vTrr���t�6—a'crric^=o=�t�i'rE6v=��
Public Rights of Way: Increase canopy coverage through street tree planting.
Low Dcnsity Residential: Maintain current City widc canopy coverage of 47%
Medium and High Density Residential: Maintain current City wide coverage of
40%
POLICIES
Policy
13.1 The City shall adopt and implement updated tree canopy goals and shall
continue to amend policies to support stormwater management and water
quality improvement in receiving waters. The City will provide mapping of City -
owned or operated properties with tree canopy no later than December 31,
2028, as based on available existing data.75
Policy 4=13.12 Promote and support a systematic approach to enhancing the city through
carefully planned plantings and ongoing maintenance of street trees, public
landscaping, and open spaces to support a sustainable and environmentally just
future for residents of Tukwila.76
Promote tree retention throughout the City by:
74 This policy will be modified upon finalization of the 2023 tree inventory data; it has been broadened, while still
retaining the intent of increased canopy and no net loss. By proposing to increase diversity of trees, as well as total
canopy cover, the City will be more likely to resist the effects of a changing climate. Per the 2024-29 NPDES
permit, by December 31, 2028, Permittees will need to adopt and implement the City's updated tree canopy goals
and policies to support stormwater management and water quality improvement in receiving waters.
76 Per 2024-29 NPDES permit
76 Most of these policy points are implemented into other policies within this section. Proposed language
encompasses these points in addition to addressing the urban heat island effect which can have detrimental
effects on residents in underserved areas. By promoting and enhancing tree canopy cover and access to open
space the public welfare and urban habitat areas can be greatly improved.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
trcc selection and care, applicable regulations, selecting a qualified arborist, and
other issues;
• except fe-r hazard trees or trees that interfere with underground or overh ad
utilities, prohibiting removal of any trcc four inches or larger in diameter at braast
height (dbh) on all undeveloped property without an approved development or
other land use permit, to provide the opportunity to preserve h althy trees during
development;
• promoting the mutual goals of tree protection and urban development through the
implementation of incentive programs and flexible site development regulations,
especially to retain trcc groves; and
feg facial assurances for required tree replanting and maintenance.
• acquire or support the protection of forested lands as possible to support tree
canopy goals.
Policy 4.13.23 Improve retention of trees on steep slope&Promote soil stability using natural
drainage systems and retention of existing native vegetation when determined
feasible and practical by a qualified geotechnical engineer in a site -specific
assessment.
Policy 4.13.34 Conduct forest practices within Continue to protect trees in environmentally
criticalscnsitivc areas and the shoreline areas in a manner that ensures water
quality, maintains or increases tree canopy cover, and maintains native
vegetation buffer strips sufficient to protect fish populations and to avoid
erosion of stream banksthrough relevant regulations.78
Policy 4.13.45 Ensure that required replacement trees at maturity will have provide an
equivalent eF-or greater shade cover larger canopies than the removed tree(s),
and replacement trees are suitable species fit for future conditions based on
climate change models. This may result in the need to have multiple trees
replace a single tree and will allow for the flexibility of avoiding conflict with
except where existing or future infrastructure and/or public or private utilities
impede the planting of large trecs.79
77 It is important to promote the use of native vegetation to stabilize slopes when site conditions allow, however
certain circumstances may require other methods of soil stabilization.
78 This language will add clarity to the importance of the urban canopy in environmentally critical areas and the
role they play in maintaining ecological integrity of these areas.
79 It is not always appropriate or desirable to have a species with a larger tree canopy. Preferred language would
result in greater shade cover without necessarily required a larger canopy from a single tree.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
so
underground infrastructure installation, including — in some cases — requiring the
presence of a certified arborist when working in the critical root zone; replacement of
trccs wh^r^ d3m0gc oidablc; and either requiring-=-cplanting e nt into
tree replacement fund as compensation, if planting on site is not feasible. Establish
r asonable procedures to ensure consideration of tree root protection during routine or
emergency maintenaneeof ^ tin�r „tiIitic d p id^ training to Cit„ and othcr-
public utility maintenance staff on root protection techniques.'
41.13.6 Establish criteria for requiring professional assessment and corrective actions by
property owners who damage code required landscaping, street trccs, or other required
trees y to ng act+ses-0r root_e t - Ee.s2
/1.13.7 Whcrc trees arc regulated and required replacement trees cannot be accommodated on
a sitc, establish procedures for off sitc planting of replacement trccs or payment into a
dedicated trcc replacement fund.
Policy 4.13.86 Promote the utilization of grants and other funding opportunities to gdevelop
tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs for City parks, open
spaces, wildlife habitats and corridors, and other publicly_owned lands.
Collaborate with other agencies, such as Washington's Department of
Transportation, to promote planting in highway interchanges and other locations
that are underserved or at higher risk to being vulnerable to the effects of
climate change.84
Policy 4,13.07 Collaborate with other government, non-profit organization, school and private
sector entities, to promote urban forest management and restoration, the use of
native plants in the urban landscape, and removal of impervious surfaces to
support the City's tree canopy cover goals and mitigate the urban heat island
effect.85
S0 NG: We have this now.
S1 Added this last statement to 14-3.
S2 Eliminate this policy. It is repetitive of Policy 4.13.5, which we largely already have.
S3 Eliminate this policy. It is repetitive of Policy 4.13.5
S4 There are many opportunities for grants and other funding sources that should be utilized whenever possible.
The proposed language will help promote these funding sources while expanding the areas that can benefit from
these programs while preparing for a changing climate and making Tukwila a more equitable place for its
residents.
S5 Broadening the language of this policy will help address not just the tree canopy but other factors that play a
role in mitigating the effects of a changing climate.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
11.13.10 Provide flexibility in the landscape code to promote incr used tree planting and/or
assist in meeting the City's canopy goals.
Policy4.13.148 Evaluate current parking lot landscape development requirements to
identify opportunities to increase tree canopy, and . Also identify opportunities
to remove 4e-pavement and install appropriate plantings. and -plan+Priority
should be given to areas or zoning designations that are currently underserved
or lack proximity to public open spaces and recreational areas.87
GOAL 4.14 Tukwila's streetscapes and landscaped areas are sustainable and attractive,
and its urban forest is healthy, diverse, and safe.
POLICIES
Policy 4.14.1
Policy 414.2
Conduct periodic Develop tree/urban forest inventories if indicated by an urban
forestry management plan, and assess the health of trees and forests in
Tukwila's public spaces to determine maintenance needs and restoration
opportunities. Any restoration should be done in coordination with Policy
4.13.8.88
Develop maintenance plans and programs for trees on City property or rights -of -
way to ensure that maintenance pruning is properly carried out, that diseases
and pest infestations are managed, that hazardous trees are identified and
managed in a timely manner to reduce risks, and that invasive vegetation is
properly managed, and any replacement trees are sustainably located following
the concept of "right tree, right place."89-
Policy 4714.3 Modify Consistent with Maintain effective landscape code requirements, a44-61.
educate property owners, property managers, City and public and private utility
se This policy should be eliminated as the code likely does not restrict increased plantings so long as they do not
interfere with utilities or other infrastructure, and it is already a policy to preserve existing trees or replace them
per Policy 4.13.5.
87 This policy could be broadened to include all development standards, not just parking lot landscaping standards,
within each zoning designation while also promoting equity.
88 Periodic maintenance and coordination with restoration efforts supports the sustainability goal. 14.13.8 =
"Develop tree planting and urban forest rehabilitation programs for City parks and other publicly -owned lands.
Collaborate with other..."
S9 Streetscapes and utility corridors must be managed for public safety and long-term sustainability. Ensuring that
tree management is based on expert advice that considers surrounding land use is important to reduce
maintenance needs and increase sustainability. This may involve a plan that provides approved lists of tree species
for specific land uses (e.g., city street, utility corridor).
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
maintenance staff, and landscape maintenance companicscontractors and tree
companies to promote best practices for soil preparation, planting techniques,
pruning (including near utility lines), trenching, root protection, and general tree
care.90
4. Policy 14.4 Enforce landscape regulations including financial guarantees, monitoring and
maintenance to ensure successful plant establishment. Landscape code should
state qualified professional requirements for landscape design, installation and
maintenanceEnsurc that landscaping and replacement trccs in new
development or re development arc properly cared for and thrive in perpetuity,
through such means as maintenance agreements, monitoring and
cnforcement.91
92
Policy 4.14.65 Ensure Modify landscape code considers wildlife habitat corridors and urban
heat island effect in landscape development standards. This includes--te
requiringe a diversity of tree species native to the ecoregion in landscape
planting plans as site conditions allow. and consideration of species already
present in the vicinity._93
11.11.7 Establish minimum standards and landscape specifications t„ cn. „r„ l„ng t„rm trcc
1icalth for street trees, required landscape trees and required replacement trees,
including minimum soil volume, soil quality, plant quality, planting techniques,
rationr r.-.inhicng i ., trcn rrInd n ohibition of topping 94
444 Develop an approved/recommended tree list for street trees, landscape perimeter
plant ing and parking Tots that recognizes the importance of the concept of "right
tree, right place", taking into account available planting space and
infrastructure/utility conflicts, and that considers the importance of species diversity,
90 Simplified policy language. The focus here is on education.
91 Simplified policy to apply more broadly. This revision is consistent with current regulations under TMC 18.52—
Landscape Requirements. Qualified professional standards are listed under Landscape Plan Requirements TMC
18.52.110. Current code requires professional certifications for design; BMPs are noted for installation and
maintenance.
92 This policy was eliminated and combined with Policy 4.14.4 above.
'Cleaned up policy language and included references to climate change stressors and resiliency strategies.
9a This policy should be eliminated. It is already covered by Policies 4.14.2 and 4.14.4 above. If a qualified
professional prepares the design and installs the trees (consistent with CMC 18.40.130), then the additional policy
language is unnecessary.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
tolerance of urban conditions.95
11.111.89 Work with electric utility providers to limit trimming of trees and other vegetation to
that which is necessary for the safety and maintenance of transmission lines, where
feasible and according to American National Standards Institute (ANSI) professional
arboricultural specifications and standards. Explore options to increase resources for
directional pruning to maintain large trccs near ovcncc\Jd utilitics.96
444.910Perform vegetation management that is needed in utility rights of way that aro
located in environmentally criticalscnsitivc ar ,as or shoreline areas, in a manner that
will maintain, restore or improve the shoreline or environmentally criticalscnsitivc
area ecolog.
ic44444c44444x
CLIMATE CHANGE
Goal 4.15:
TukwiIa's r sidcnt ^ cd by Tukwila'" infrastructure and
investments enable Tukwila residents to make choices that emit lower
greenhouse gas emissions.
Policy 15.1 Adopt and implement policies and programs that support King County's target of
reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2040 (compared to a 2007
baseline), including net -zero emissions through carbon sequestration and other
strategies, by 2050. Evaluate and update these targets over time to incorporate
the latest climate science and statewide targets aimed at limiting the most
severe impacts of climate change and keep global warminggrowth under 1.5
degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit).98
95 This policy should be eliminated; the city adopted a list of approved trees in 2017, plus it is redundant with
Policy 4.14.2. Appropriate street tree species should be covered in the "maintenance plans and programs for trees
on City property or rights -of -way" under Policy 4.14.2
96 This policy should be eliminated; it is generally covered under Policy 4.14.3 above. Specific requirements for
utilities may be incorporated into landscape regulations, but all projects should be held to professional standards.
A specific policy for transmission lines appears to be unnecessary.
97 This policy could be deleted. Environmentally critical area regulations require no net loss of
stream/wetland/buffer functions. The way this policy is phrased, it implies Net Ecological Gain is the goal, which is
more than required under No -Net -Loss. Recommend the City review the intent and consider deleting this policy if
No -Net -Loss standards are deemed sufficient. No -Net -Loss is what's required under the WAC 365-196-830(4).
98 EN-27
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 15.2
Plan for development patterns that minimize air pollution and greenhouse gas
emissions, through the following actions:
a. Direct growth to Urban Centers and other mixed -use or high -density
locations that support mass transit, encourage non -motorized modes of
travel, and reduce trip lengths.99
b. Through interjurisdictional and local efforts, facilitate modes of travel other
than single -occupancy vehicles including transit, walking, bicycling, and
carpooling;loo
c. Encourage the transition to a sustainable energy future by reducing demand
through efficiency and conservation, supporting the development of energy
management technology, and meeting reduced needs from sustainable sources.101
d. Support and provide incentives to increase the percentage of new
development and redevelopment— both public and private —to be built at
higher -performing energy and environmental standards.
e. Implement infrastructure design manuals that incorporate energy saving
strategies, and develop regulations that provide extra flexibility or density
bonuses to proposals that implement green building standards, such as the
Living Building Challenge or LEED certification."
Policy 4.15.43 Reallocate public space dedicated to carbon intensive uses, such as single
occupant vehicle lanes and parking, toward transit, pedestrian, and bike
facilities.'
104
Policy 4.15.-4Develop minimum standards for rights -of -way and new private streets that
require facilities for safe protected bicycle and pedestrian routes to all
destinations.105
Policy 15.5 Ensure all federal and state air quality standards are met and reduce emissions
of air toxics and greenhouse gases.lo6
99 K EN-28a.
100 K EN-28b and d
101 K EN-4
102 K EN28C and
103 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
4"KEN28B
105 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
106 WAC 173-420-080, MPP-En-22
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Policy 4.15.66 Recognize that dense development utilizes less resources per person, and
promote -greater densities and mixed uses near Tukwila's urban centers and
high -capacity transit. Work with local transit and transportation agencies to
provide additional multi -modal access and transit frequency to underserved
areas.lo'
Policy4.15.67 Recognize, protect, retore, and enhance Tukwila's natural resources, by
expanding or improving existing parks, wetlands, estuaries, and the urban tree
canopy, and enhancei-K access to passive and active recreation areas, improving
air and water quality, and improving rowing the u-r-ban trcc
ca+nopyopportunities for carbon sequestration in Tukwila.1o8
Policy 4.15.78: Prioritize investments in areas that in proximity to contain underserved
and historically marginalized populations in order to ensure that all Tukwila
residents have equal access to public spaces, natural areas, the urban tree
canopy, and the opportunity to make low -emission choices in a low -pollutant
environment, regardless of their race, social, or economic status.109
Policy4.15.9 In order to minimize air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, facilitate modes
of travel other than single -occupancy vehicles including transit, walking, bicycling, and
carpooling, plus, for trips that must be made via single -occupant vehicle, facilitate
electric vehicle adoption by creating requirements for electric vehicle charging
installations in residential and commercial developments.'1°
RELATED INFORMATION - to be added later
Natural Environment Background Report
107 K EN-28a, and d
108 K EN-32
109 K EN5 and EN-25
110 EN-30
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Chapter 4X
Existing Comprehensive Plan (with proposed changes)
Tukwila Sensitive Areas Map
Tukwila Shoreline Master Program
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Enhancement Plan
Abandoned Underground Coal Mine Hazards Assessment Report
Tukwila Urban Tree Canopy Assessment
Tukwila Municipal Code, Chapter 18.45
Green Tukwila 20-year Stewardship Plan
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