HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning 2024-03-14 COMPLETE AGENDA PACKETCity of Tukwila
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
Department of Community Development - Nora Gierloff,, AICP, Director
CITY OF TUKWILA
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARING
MARCH 14, 2024 - 6:30 PM
Join in -person at: 6200 Southcenter Blvd, Council Chambers, Tukwila, WA. 98188
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 3/14/24
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
I. Call to Order
IL Roll Call
III. Amendment of the Agenda if necessary
IV. Approval of Minutes 2/22/24
V. General Public Comments (acknowledge non -hearing -related written comments received)
VI. New Business
- PUBLIC HEARING - Draft 2024-2044 Update to the City of Tukwila
Comprehensive Plan, Goals and Policies
VII. Director's Report
VIII. Adjournment
Public Comments on the Comprehensive Plan: Persons attending the hearing in person who wish to speak to the Planning
Commission (PC) on the public hearing item are asked to sign up on the "SIGN IN SHEET" located at the entrance of the
Chambers. After the public hearing is opened for testimony, names from that list will be called and speakers should approach
the podium. Others who did not sign up (and those attending online) will be invited to speak after the listed names are called.
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 PC 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 are available to address PC questions regarding packets. Please call or email
PC Secretary Wynetta Bivens, at 206-431-3654 or Wynetta.Bivens@TukwilaWA.gov to be connected with a staff member.
Thank you!
Tukwila City Nall • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
City of Tukwila
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
Department of Community Development - Nora Gierloff, AICP, Director
CITY OF TUKWILA
PLANNING COMMISSION (PC)
MINUTES
Date: February 22, 2024
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
Vice Chair Mann called the Tukwila PC meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Roll Call
The PC Secretary took roll call.
Present: Vice Chair Sharon Mann; Commissioners Louise Strander, Alexandria Teague, Martin
Probst, and Ann Durant
PC Vacancy: One PC position is currently vacant.
Unexcused Absence: Chair Apneet Sidhu
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; Senior Program Manager
(Transportation) Cyndy Knighton, PW; and PC Secretary Wynetta Bivens, DCD
Consultant: Emily Alice Allhart, Fehr & Peers, Project Manager
Amendment of the Agenda
No changes to the agenda were requested.
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner Strander moved to adopt the 1/25/24 Minutes. Commissioner Probst seconded the motion.
Motion carried.
Commissioner Strander moved to adopt the 2/8/24 Minutes. Commissioner Mann seconded the motion.
Motion carried. Commissioner Teague abstained; she was absent.
Written General Public Comments
A public general comment letter was received from Segale Properties on 2/8/24 and was distributed to the PC
on the evening of 2/8/2024, in advance of the 2/22/24 meeting packet.
Old Business
None.
Tukwila City Hal! • 6200 Southcenter Boulevard • Tukwila, WA 98188 • 206-433-1800 • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
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Planning Commission Minutes
2/22/24
Page 2
New Business
1. Draft Transportation Element Goals and Policies, Cyndy Knighton, and Emily Alice Allhart (Fehr and
Peers); and remaining Plan Element Updates, Senior Planner Neil Tabor, AICP, DCD
a. Draft Transportation Element
Senior Program Manager (Transportation) Cyndy Knighton, PW, thanked the PC for having them attend the
meeting. She noted that Fehr & Peers had completed a prior Transportation Plan update, as well as the
current update. She stated that they were bringing forth some of the policies intended for the Transportation
Element update, but there is still work to be done. She explained that they had conducted numerous outreach
events in the community with citizens, business owners and individuals, including people who were recent
arrivals at the Riverton Park Church, etc. They were asking the public what transportation meant to them,
what improvements were needed and whether the team captured all their concerns. She stated there will be
further outreach. She said that now is a good time for the PC to weigh in on what had been developed for the
goals and policies.
Ms. Knighton provided additional background information and future implementation plans, which included
completion of a local road safety plan (LRSP). This LRSP will address safety needs while the Transportation
Element traditionally focuses on accommodating growth. Unlike previous Transportation Plans, which
adopted the Transit Network Plan and Walk & Roll Plan by reference, the updated Transportation Plan will
address all transportation -related topics, including transit and non -motorized needs, providing a holistic
picture of transportation needs of the city in one planning document. That Transportation Plan will serve as
the background report for the Transportation Element. Also, the staff and consulting team will be working on
developing a multi -modal level of service (MMLOS) standard, as well as determining future growth
capacity. She stated they are working with DCD to ensure that the housing and land use elements are
coordinated with the Transportation Plan outcomes. She walked through highlights of the goals and policies
of the Transportation Element and identified changes since the previous Plan and addressed questions from
the PC.
PC Recommendation, Questions, and/or Requests for the Transportation Element
- Page 16, policy 2.6, modify to include "maintain and improve sidewalks".
- Page 17, policy 3.8, potentially delete this policy.
- Page 17, connectivity to the community center.
- Page 20, policy 4.4, revisit for modifications.
- Page 20, work with Department of Transportation (DOT) to keep off ramps debris free (possible
implementation strategy).
- Page 21, policy 5.1, may get dated and narrow, modify language. Incorporate Burlington Northern,
broaden who is targeted.
- Page 21, policy, 5.1, bullet 4, modify language.
- Page 26, policy 13.2.9, add language 'and design' following the word speeds (or modify language).
- Page 26, policy 13.2.12, language to support maintenance of tree canopy in the street design - should
this be an implementation strategy (ongoing challenge for maintenance).
- Page 34, policy 13.4.7, add language, "work diligently with (King County Metro) in the Tukwila
south area".
- Page 35, policy 13.4.9, bullet 3, insert language, "Tukwila South" following transit centers.
- Page 38, policy 13.6.3, insert language, "community center" following the word schools.
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Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
Planning Commission Minutes
2/22/24
Page 3
- Page 42, goal 13.7, add policy "13.7.3" and language "implement `geo-fencing' for freight."
Suggestion to bring back police officers on bicycles.
- Page 43, policy 13.9.2, include language on "development fee reductions for nonprofits."
b. Draft Community Character Element — modifications
Long Range Planning Manager Nancy Eklund, AICP, DCD, walked through the following updates that
were recommended following an equity review by staff, or discussions with the Human Services staff:
- Page 10, under modifications, bullet 2, Human Services — requested the term "citizens" be replaced
with "residents".
- Page 10, under modifications, bullet 3 sub -bullet 2, replace "positive and healthy relationships" with
the reference to "community wellness".
Page 10, under modifications, bullet 3 sub -bullet 4, "Information referral". A PC member requested
that this policy language state that, as possible, the City would take a case -manager level of
involvement in ensuring that individual problems brought to Human Services be addressed.
[Language was added; however, Human Services staff will need to provide their input on the
proposed change.]
c. Draft Land Use Element — modifications
Senior Planner Neil Tabor, AICP, DCD, walked through the following updates:
- Page 12, policy language option, bullet 3 preferred. (with language from bullet 1 combined to 3).
- Page 12, goal language for TIB "Public and Private Investment" modified to staff suggestion.
Page 96, policies, residential, number 9, add language for consistency.
- Page 98, table reflects language that was missing for consistency.
- Page 103, language received around Tukwila South, added two uses.
- Page 105, modify to remove light industrial use.
Director's Report
Director Gierloff, AICP, DCD, noted the following:
- 3/14/24 the public hearing will be held on the update of the Comprehensive Plan.
- Staff are working with TIS to enable the PC to sit on the dais for the hearing and allow members of
the public that wish to testify during the public hearing to use the podium on the floor.
- Staff will gather the public comments for the PC's consideration at the public hearing on 3/14. If it is
necessary to continue the public hearing to hear testimony, the hearing can be continued to 3/28/24.
Or if the PC requires more time to review public comments and complete its recommendation to the
City Council on the plan's goals and policies, the decision can be moved forward to the 3/28/24 PC
meeting.
Adjourn
Commissioner Probst moved to adjourn, and Commissioner Durant seconded the motion. All were in favor.
Adjourned: 9:11 p.m.
Submitted By: Wynetta Bivens
PC Secretary
Phone: 206-433-1800 • Email: Mayor@TukwilaWA.gov • Website: TukwilaWA.gov
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City of Tukwila
Thomas McLeod, Mayor
STAFF REPORT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Prepared February 28, 2024
HEARING DATE: March 14, 2024
FILE NUMBERS: L24-0014
E24-0001
APPPLICANT: City of Tukwila
REQUEST: 2024 Comprehensive Plan Update —The Planning Commission will hold
a public hearing on the goals and policies for all plan elements. This
update is part of the periodic review and update of the Plan required by
the Washington Growth Management Act.
LOCATION: Policies apply throughout the City of Tukwila
NOTIFICATION: Hearing Notice was published in the Seattle Times and posted on the
City of Tukwila website on February 29, 2024.
SEPA DETERMINATION: An environmental determination on the proposed amendments will be
issued prior to City Council consideration of the Plan update in the fall
of 2024.
STAFF: Nancy Eklund, AICP, Long Range Planning Supervisor and Neil Tabor,
AICP, Senior Planner
BACKGROUND
The City of Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan, first adopted in 1995, establishes goals and policies that guide
the community as it grows and changes over time. Its goals and policies lay out the community's
long range vision. The Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) gives Tukwila the opportunity
to amend the Comprehensive Plan once a year for non -emergencies. The Comprehensive Plan has
been amended to keep up with changing direction, requirements, and to respond to successful private
applications to amend the plan. The updated plan will address the 2024 to 2044 planning period.
In addition to these regular amendments, the state Growth Management Act (GMA) requires that
counties and cities periodically conduct a thorough review of their plan and development regulations to
bring them up to date with any relevant changes in the GMA and to respond to changes in land use and
population growth in periodic updates. The last required periodic update was completed in 2015.
By the end of 2024, the City of Tukwila is required to complete a periodic review and update of its
Comprehensive Plan including amending, or introducing new policies to comply with requirements set
forth by the Department of Commerce, Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) and King County.
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Staff Report: Planning Commission Public Hearing to
Consider Amendments to Update the 2024 Tukwila Comprehensive Plan
3/14/24 Public Hearing
The 2015 Tukwila Comprehensive Plan included a total of 15 "elements." To comply with regulatory
requirements, streamline the plan to enhance readability, and create intuitive groupings of goals and
policies, the 2015 elements have been amended. Some elements have been consolidated and collapsed
into one element and other elements have been renamed and refocused slightly1. Some changes have
been made to eliminate redundancy between elements, although many of the goals and policies have
been moved into new elements without changes, or with only minor changes. A full overview of
element changes is provided below.
Table 1
2015 Update Elements:
(Removed Element)
2024 Update Elements:
New Element
Community Image and Identity
Community Character
(combines Community Image and Identity and Roles and
Responsibilities)
Economic Development
Land Use
(consolidates Tukwila International Boulevard District and
Tukwila South elements)
Housing
Regional Centers
(consolidates the Southcenter and Manufacturing/Industrial
Center elements)
Natural Environment
Housing
(incorporates Residential Neighborhoods element)
Shoreline
Economic Development
Parks, Recreation and Open Space
Natural Environment
(Residential Neighborhoods)
Shoreline
(Tukwila International Boulevard District)
Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
(Tukwila South)
Transportation
(Southcenter - Tukwila's Urban Center)
Utilities
(Manufacturing/Industrial Center)
Capital Facilities
Utilities
Transportation
Capital Facilities
(Roles and Responsibilities)
The final Comprehensive Plan will include the elements listed above, which include a general summary
of existing conditions and the goals and policies, a background report that provides more existing
conditions information, and Implementation Strategies that list how City staff, programs, and priorities
will implement the Plan's goals and policies.
The Growth Management Act requires that Comprehensive Plans include a Land Use Element. Historically,
Tukwila has not had a Land Use Element, and complied with GMA requirements by including the mandated
information throughout elements in the Plan. To improve the utility of the Plan and for consistency with other
jurisdictions, the City has developed a new Land Use Element with this Plan update.
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Staff Report: Planning Commission Public Hearing to
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3/14/24 Public Hearing
OUTREACH
Staff conducted significant public outreach with the community and key stakeholders prior to any policy
development of the plan occurring. This process helped ensure key concerns of the community were
captured and would be reflected and addressed in the final document. The Community Engagement
Plan for the Update was presented to the City Council in June 2023.
The City sponsored a variety of engagement opportunities intended to involve community members
who may not be able, or inclined, to participate through traditional outreach methods. Some examples
of outreach included contracting with community -based organizations to gather input on topics of
interest, hosting an online engagement hub, holding stakeholder interviews, tabling at locations around
the City at different times of day, speaking with high school classes, presenting to boards and
commissions, reaching out to community groups, and hosting several open houses. Translation services
were provided where possible to better capture the diversity of Tukwila voices.
A list of events and general summary of the types of comments received is provided in Attachment L.
Themes From Public Outreach
A range of themes arose through the comprehensive plan outreach process that described what was
important to community members and what they would like to see address or represented in the plan
update. Comments ranged widely, but some of the most prevalent topics heard were:
• Need for affordable housing
• Need for different types of housing
• Need for housing that addresses a range of circumstances: family size, disability, multigenerational
families, seniors, new homebuyers
• Need for increased development near transit locations
• Concern about ensuring environmental protection and addressing environmental pollution
• Need for more job creation
• Need for the City's long-term financial stability
• Concern about the City preparing for climate change
• Desire to retain tree cover in City
• Need for increased transportation options (esp., transit, non -motorized)
• Need for community safety
• Concerns over parking availability
• Recognition that Tukwila's diversity is of value
REVIEW PROCESS
The Planning Commission began discussion of the Comprehensive Plan Update at the end of 2022
(resources for the plan's development: local staff and grant funding). In the early months of 2023, the
Commission was presented materials concerning:
• New requirements for local housing planning: January 26, 2023, Planning Commission Packet.
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• The approach recommended for the update of the plan (compliance with regulatory requirements;
and consolidation and streamlining of the Plan format): February 23, 2023, Planning Commission
Packet.
• A background on housing issues in Tukwila (housing unit composition, housing affordability in
Tukwila and the region; standards guiding housing development in Tukwila and region; and Transit
Oriented Development (TOD) guidance recommended in 2021 Tukwila Housing Strategies Plan):
March 23, 2023, Planning Commission Packet.
• A deeper dive on the requirements of the housing -related legislative requirements of 2023, and a
discussion about what middle housing is and its potential for development in Tukwila: April 27,
2023, Planning Commission Packet.
• A presentation from the Puget Sound Regional Council focusing on the role of elected and appointed
officials in developing comprehensive plans that will shape communities' futures: May 25, 2023,
Planning Commission Packet.
• A presentation on the outcome of a middle housing study in Tukwila and discussion about the
racially disparate impacts of existing and proposed housing policies and regulations; and discussion
about the approach being used and information gathered to develop the City's Economic
Development Strategy: June 22, 2023, Planning Commission Packet.
• A discussion about the Middle Housing findings, including recommendations for code updates: July
27, 2023, Planning Commission Packet.
• Further discussion on issues surrounding land use, housing, and reasonable measures: October 5,
2023, Planning Commission Packet.
Beginning in August 2023 and continuing through February 2024, the Planning Commission has been
reviewing the proposed amendments to the individual elements of the plan. As noted earlier, the
emphasis of this update of the City's 2015 Comprehensive Plan is to ensure out-of-date information is
made current and that the Plan complies with state and regional regulatory requirements, is
streamlined to enhance its readability, and incorporates public input. This update has created one new
element (Land Use), consolidated and collapsed some elements into a single element, and renamed and
refocused other elements.
Throughout this process, staff worked with the Planning Commission to present the draft elements,
highlight changes, take feedback from Commissioners, the public, and staff, and integrate changes to
refine the draft elements, with a particular focus on goals and policies.
State and Regional Guidance
The Draft Tukwila Plan goals and policies have been developed to ensure consistency with guidance
found from the following entities. Where these required goals and policies have been added to the draft
Plan, they are generally noted in footnotes. This guidance is provided through the following:
• GMA Laws; other GMA guidance
• Commerce Department Checklist
• Puget Sound Regional Council, Vision 2050, Goals and Policies
• King County Countywide Planning Policies (last amended 2023)
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Staff Report: Planning Commission Public Hearing to
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3/14/24 Public Hearing
The March 14, 2024, Planning Commission public hearing will culminate in review of the various
elements, and provide a formal opportunity for the public to comment on draft goals and policies.
Materials and Format
Goal and policy materials are organized in this summary by element and include a clean copy showing all
proposed changes integrated into the text. Any references to state or regional policy requirements or
carryover from 2015 policies are noted in footnotes. Draft elements showing changes proposed and
changes from the 2015 draft (where possible) are posted for public review on the Comprehensive Plan
website.
Backup documents referenced in this report are largely found in the City's Digital records system.
Planning Commission meetings are also available in video format here: https://tukwila.vod.castus.tv/vod
PROPOSED CHANGES TO GOALS AND POLICIES
The Planning Commission will consider proposed amendments to the goals and policies of the following
elements:
Community Character
The Community Character Element (Attachment A) is a consolidation of the Community Image and
Identity Element and the Roles and Responsibilities Element. Collectively, this element addresses:
community design; the City's regard for its past and present, and the value placed on cultural diversity;
the role and expectations of City government, including benefits derived by participating in regional
decision -making; and the health and well-being of community members, including community safety
and preparedness for emergencies.
Documents used in Planning Commission's review of the Community Character Element can be found in
the meeting packets linked below:
• February 8, 2024, Planning Commission Packet
• February 22, 2024, Planning Commission Packet
Land Use
The Land Use Element (Attachment B) is a new element in this update of the comprehensive plan and
carries over many of the policies previously appearing in the Tukwila International Boulevard District
and Tukwila South Elements. This element includes requirements adhering to regional requirements,
directing growth in a responsible manner, comprehensive plan land use designations, and intentions for
growth within specific subareas of the city. Attachment B includes proposed goals and policies, a copy of
the proposed future land use map, and the goals and policies showing changes requested by the
Commission at their recent February 22, 2024, meeting.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Land Use Element can be found in the meeting
packets linked below:
• January 25, 2024, Planning Commission Packet
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3/14/24 Public Hearing
• February 8, 2024, Planning Commission Packet
• February 22, 2024, Planning Commission Packet
Regional Centers
The Regional Centers Element (Attachment C) centralizes policies previously found in the Southcenter —
Tukwila's Urban Center and Manufacturing/Industrial Center Elements. Proposed goals and policies are
largely consistent with those found within the 2015 update of the comprehensive plan, and 2024
requirements found in regional guidance.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Regional Centers Element can be found in the
October 5, 2023, meeting linked below:
• October 5, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
Housing
The Housing Element (Attachment D) proposes significant updates related primarily to equity, updates
to legislation around middle housing, ensuring housing affordability, promoting new housing
production, and housing targets affordable to specific income levels. To better frame updated
requirements and goals of the element, the element was restructured to better group relevant policies
under new goal language and centralize policies around their intended impact. Some of the policies
were relocated from the Residential Neighborhoods Element
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Housing Element can be found in the December
14, 2023, meeting linked below:
• December 14, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
Economic Development
In 2023, the City accepted a Tukwila Economic Development Strategy. The Economic Development
Element (Attachment E) reflects the focus of that Strategy and integrates those goals and policies with
other elements in the Comprehensive Plan. The main goals of the Economic Development Element
include:
• A Vibrant, Diverse and Resilient Economy
• A Safe, Desirable, and Healthy Community with a Positive Identity
• Prosperity and Opportunity for Businesses, Workers, and Residents
• A Supportive Environment for Business and Entrepreneurs
• A Community that Values Diversity and Access to Opportunity
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Economic Development Element can be found in
the September 28, 2023, meeting linked below:
• September 28, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
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3/14/24 Public Hearing
Natural Environment
The Natural Environment Element (Attachment F) proposes several changes addressing modifications in
how the City protects and manages its natural resources, in addition to including policies addressing
climate change and equity reflected in the King County Countywide Planning Policies. Natural
Environment policies address local conditions such as water resources, quantity, and quality; wetlands,
fish, and wildlife habitat conservation; flood control; urban forestry; and community stewardship
towards those resources. The proposed language expands existing policies that address how the City can
better prepare for, and deter, the impacts of climate change. In addition, the policies address issues of
climate justice, and the need to include the full community in making decisions about the environment
that affects all.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Natural Environment Element can be found in
the November 9, 2023, meeting linked below:
• November 9, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
Shoreline
The Shoreline Element (Attachment G) reflects the goals and policies that were approved by the City and
the Washington Department of Ecology (DOE) in the City of Tukwila Shoreline Master Program adopted
in 2020. While there are a few minor corrections that could be made in the Shoreline Element, the DOE
will need to approve those changes and no approval has been received yet. The Shoreline Element has
not been amended since the adoption of the 2015 plan.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Shoreline Element can be found in the
November 9, 2023, meeting linked below:
• November 9, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
Updates to the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Element (Attachment H) mirror goals and
policies in the 2020-adopted Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan. Minor changes in the element are
proposed to ensure consistency between the 2020 PROS plan, and the 2024 PROS goals and policies. In
addition, where appropriate, King County Countywide Planning Policies have been included to ensure
that equity considerations are also addressed in the PROS Element (these have been identified in
footnotes). The Parks Commission reviewed the proposed goals and policies prior to the Planning
Commission's consideration of the element.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element can
be found in the August 24, 2023, meeting linked below:
• August 24, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
Transportation
The Transportation Element (Attachment I) is used to ensure that adequate transportation
infrastructure is provided to accommodate future land use growth as required by the Growth
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Management Act. In this update, goals and policies have been updated to include key themes of equity,
safety, connectivity, adaptability, and climate justice. Updates to the Transportation Element will also
prepare for future amendments such as the City's first Multi -Modal Level of Service (MMLOS) standard,
incorporating multiple modes of travel into transportation network planning and analysis, as well as
safety improvements to be identified through the Local Road Safety Plan.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Transportation Element can be found in the
February 22, 2024, meeting linked below:
• February 22, 2024, Planning Commission Packet
Utilities
The Utilities Element (Attachment J) addresses both City -operated utilities and utilities not operated by
the City that serve City residents. The goals and policies in the proposed element are very similar to
those in the adopted 2015 Utilities Element. Most of the changes necessary are the result of new
regional emphasis on stormwater management and Low Impact Development (LID), policies addressing
how the City can be prepared for climate change impacts, and recognition that City services need to be
provided equitably across the community. These changes have been highlighted with footnotes.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Utilities Element can be found in the September
28, 2023, meeting linked below:
• September 28, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
Capital Facilities
The Capital Facilities Element (Attachment K) policy changes reflect the addition of King County
Countywide Planning policies that address equity and climate change issues, new City Finance or Public
Works procedures, or new terminology or language clarifications. In some cases, policies were deleted
that represent internal operational policies rather than Comprehensive Plan -level policies.
Documents used in Planning Commission Review of the Capital Facilities Element can be found in the
September 28, 2023, meeting linked below:
• September 28, 2023, Planning Commission Packet
REQUESTED ACTION
Staff is requesting that the Planning Commission forward a recommendation for adoption of the draft
comprehensive plan goals and policies, with any suggested modifications, to the City Council for their
further review and adoption.
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ATTACHMENTS
A Community Character
B Land Use
C
D
E
F
G
H
K
L
Regional Centers
Housing
Economic Development
Natural Environment
Shoreline
Parks, Recreation, and Open
Space
Transportation
Utilities
Capital Facilities
Comments Summary
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies (showing changes since 2/22/24
Planning Commission meeting)
Proposed Future Land Use Map
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
Proposed Goals and Policies
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DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS AND POLICIES
Overall Community Design
GOAL 1
POLICIES
GOAL 2
A community of inviting neighborhoods and vibrant business districts that
are visually attractive, draw visitors, add value to the community and
encourage people to walk, bike and use transit.'
1. Encourage the creation of locations and facilities where residents of all ages and
cultures can gather for activities and events, such as public markets, parades,
and festivals, including those that are representative of the City's diverse
population.2 3
2. Capitalize on the potential that public projects, arts, and cultural facilities have
for serving as symbols of the community, catalyzing local development, and
contributing to a unique sense of place within a neighborhood.'
3. Expand the system of incentives, tools, and supports that encourage investment
in and maintenance of private and public spaces.'
4. Encourage placemaking through creative use of signage, art, landmark
designation and improvement, and streetscape improvements.'
5. Require that sites have adequate lighting and are designed using crime -
reduction principles to increase safety.
6. Seek opportunities to integrate public art into public improvements.
Design streets to create a cohesive network, including continuous non -
motorized improvements that connect to the surrounding business and
residential neighborhoods and enhance the visual quality of the
community.
7. Where appropriate and feasible, provide lighting, seating, landscaping, and
other amenities for sidewalks, walkways, and trails.
8. Provide street lighting where needed and appropriate based on neighborhood
context to improve visibility and safety while minimizing light/glare spillover.
9. Maintain, improve, and expand distinctive gateway features located at freeway
off -ramps and at City limit lines where they cross major arterial streets; use
12015 Goal 1.1 and Goal 1.6
2 2015 Policy 1.1.1
3 Too broad — not "clear and objective"
4 2015 Policy 1.1.3
' 2015 Policy 1.1.4
6 2015 Policy 7.7
15
DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
graphics, orientation maps, informational signage, lighting, specimen trees,
plantings with seasonal color, artwork, monument forms, or combinations
thereof.
10. Promote the planting of street trees and other landscaping standards to
enhance corridor appearance, neighborhood identification and streetscape
unity.
11. Where possible, encourage developments to include pedestrian weather
protection, see -through glass, and distinctive rooflines in new and redeveloped
building facades.
Tukwila's Past, Present, and Future
GOAL 3
POLICIES
GOAL 4
POLICIES
Paleontological and archaeological artifacts and sites with cultural and
Native American significance are protected and preserved.'
12. Ensure that the potential for the existence of paleontological and archaeological
sites is considered during development of new construction projects.'
13. Identify and protect archaeological resources and culturally significant sites and
develop interpretive information that fosters public appreciation of historical
traditions and practices.'
A heritage conserved and interpreted so that Tukwila's citizens recognize
connections with the past and celebrate the diverse cultures represented in
the community today."
14. Identify, protect, and designate historically significant properties, structures and
sites.11
15. Provide prominent public art and interpretive markers that celebrate the City's
history of important buildings, sites, events or persons.12
16. Establish a process for providing incentives for the preservation and reuse of
historic landmarks.13
' 2015 Goal 1.4
$ 2015 Policy 1.4.2
9 2015 Policy 1.4.3
'° 2015 Goal 1.3
11 2015 Policy 1.3.1, partial
12 2015 Policy 1.3.2
13 2015 Policy 1.3.3
16
DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
GOAL 5
POLICIES
17. Develop and implement plans, projects, and programs to protect and promote
the historical legacy of the Green River Valley and its natural and built
environment.l4
18. The Tukwila Arts Commission shall ensure that Tukwila's characteristics, such as
its history and cultural diversity, are considered in public art projects.'
The Tukwila community is proud of its cultural diversity, distinctive
identity, and unique character.16
19. City staff and leaders seek opportunities to generate positive media coverage of
the community and its attributes.17
20. Promote Tukwila's international diversity as a strength.18
21. Actively promote community engagement of all sectors of the City's diverse
population using a wide range of innovative methods responsive to variety of
communication requirements.19
22. Encourage and support communities in celebrating, preserving, and transmitting
their traditions through cultural and heritage activities and education.20
23. Develop programs and City-wide events to celebrate the City's cultural
diversity.21
24. Enhance linkages with the school districts serving Tukwila to recognize and
support the strengths of Tukwila's multi-lingual student body.22
GOAL 6 A healthy community where active living and access to affordable, culturally
appropriate, and nutritious food is available to all.23
14 2015 Policy 1.3.5
15 2015 Policy 1.3.6
16 New goal; partially Goal 1.2
17 2015 Policy 1.2.1, partial
18 2015 Policy 1.2.3
19 2015 Policy 1.2.4
20 2015 Policy 1.3.6
21 2015 Policy 1.3.7
22 2015 Policy 1.3.8
23 2015 Goal 1.9
17
DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
POLICIES
25. Encourage the development of public, private and non-profit partnerships to
support the goal of healthy eating and active living, including education and
awareness.24
26. Develop and implement a communication plan and Healthy Tukwila website
with information and links about healthy eating, active living, and related topics
— including strategies for reaching communities who do not speak English or use
computers (e.g., translated written as well as verbal).Z"
27. Provide healthy and culturally appropriate food and beverages in City programs
and facilities to promote healthy eating habits.26
GOAL 7 Food security, local food production and public health are promoted.27
POLICIES
29
28. Explore incentives or regulatory changes to encourage location of healthy food
purveyors in underserved areas.28
29. Support the Tukwila Food Pantry and other organizations that help provide food
assistance to low-income residents so that all families, seniors, schools, and
community— based organizations are able to access, purchase and increase
intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods.30
Tukwila Government - Service to the Community
GOAL 8
POLICIES
Provide a high -performing, service- and results -oriented government that
works with citizens, citizens groups, institutions, and service providers to
recognize and solve problems within the community.31
30. Support the City's human services program in pro viding a solid foundation for
all Tukwila residents, through high -quality services and actively collaborating
with service providers to help meet basic needs and job readiness, including:
24 2015 Policy 1.9.1
25 2015 Policy 1.9.2
26 2015 Policy 1.9.3
27 2015 Goal 1.10
28 2015 Policy 1.10.1
29 Moved to Land Use element
30 2015 Policy 1.10.3
31 2015 Goal 15.1
18
DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
• Safety net for urgent and basic needs,
• Positive and healthy relationships,
• Support for self-sufficiency, and
• Information referral (and individual -level support, if feasible).32
31. Enhance and encourage effective partnerships across City departments and with
providers to meet community needs.33
32. Ensure that land use, urban design, transportation, economic development, and
other policies, plans and projects in Tukwila consider human services impacts,
and benefit existing and future populations in an equitable manner.34
33. Promote health, safety, and quality of life through responsive and responsible
investment of public funds in social and human services.'
34. Enable culturally and linguistically appropriate equitable access to programs and
services and help connect residents to service options, particularly for those
most disproportionately cost -burdened or historically excluded.36
35. Adopt and use an equity impact review tool when developing plans and policies
to test for outcomes that might adversely impact Black, Indigenous, and People
of Color communities; immigrants and refugees; people with low incomes;
people with disabilities; and communities with language access needs. Regularly
assess the impact of policies and programs to identify actual outcomes and
adapt as needed to achieve intended goals.37
36. Involve community groups especially immigrant, Black, Indigenous, and People
of Color communities continuously in planning processes to promote civic
engagement, government accountability, transparency, and personal agency.38
POLICIES
Communication and Engagement
37. Use frequent and open communication and collaboration as an operating
principle in all affairs of the City.39
40
38. Design and implement processes and programs to be user-friendly for the public
and efficient for City staff.41
39. Strengthen the City's ability to engage with diverse populations within the
community, particularly those that do not participate in traditional formats, by
32 2015 Policy 15.1.1, truncated
33 2015 Policy 15.1.2
34 2015 Policy 15.1.3
35 2015 Policy 15.1.4
36 King County FW-6
37 King County FW-7
38 King County FW-8
39 2015 Policy 15.1.11
40 Consolidated into Policy 15.1.16
41 2015 Policy 15.1.13
19
DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
using a variety of participation techniques to reach all segments of the
population.42
40. Build meaningful and trusting connections between the City and the diverse
communities that make up the broader Tukwila community to foster their
participation and involvement in City affairs and decision -making processes.43
41. Encourage the participation of dedicated, community -oriented volunteers on
City boards and commissions, striving to achieve a broad and balanced
representation of members from the entire community.44
Safety, Security, and Emergency Preparedness
42. Foster an environment of safety and security for those who live in, work in, and
visit Tukwila, through a broad and collaborative approach to reducing and
preventing crime.45
43. Equip residents, businesses, and community service providers through
education and training to be active participants in public safety (including, but
not limited to, emergency preparedness, crime prevention, first aid, fire
prevention, and climate -related hazards).46
44. The City Police Department works with community members and businesses to
identify approaches to addressing crime in the City.47
45. Maintain and update as required a City-wide Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plan (CEMP) and program, that:
• Establishes a comprehensive all -hazards approach to incident management;
• Ensures ongoing operation and continuity of City government;
• Uses the National Incident Management System (NIMS);
• Serves to inform and educate City employees and the community about
emergency preparedness measures for all hazards, including flood and
climate -related emergencies;
• Effectively utilizes available resources from all City departments and mutual
aid partners, in an adequate and timely response to emergency situations;
and
• Addresses emergency preparedness for those with access and functional
needs, coordinating a broad range of stakeholders to improve planning and
responsive service.48
46. Continue to meet or exceed federal minimum standards for the National Flood
Insurance Program to better protect public health and safety, and to achieve
flood insurance premium discounts.49
42 2015 Policy 15.1.15
43 2015 Policy 15.1.16
44 2015 Policy 15.1.19
45 2015 Policy 15.1.5
46 New policy
47 2015 Policy, 1.1.12, revised
48 2015 Policy 15.1.6
49 2015 Policy 15.1.7
20
DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
47. Ensure the City of Tukwila's continued participation in the National Flood
Insurance Program through periodic review and updating of flood plain
management standards and the flood zone construction permit process.'
48. Encourage long-term community environmental security by supporting and
implementing the U.S. Conference of Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement,
climate pledges and commitments undertaken by the City, and other multi -
jurisdictional efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, address climate
change and other impacts of changing global conditions.51
49. Lead by example to establish policy decisions and priorities, and design
programs and facilities that consider long-term impacts on natural and human
environments to address sustainability and climate change.52
Regional Responsibility
GOAL 9 Foster a strong sense of Tukwila's regional responsibility and accountability
balanced by an awareness of regional impacts on the City and its citizens.53
POLICIES
50. Accept Tukwila's responsibility to coordinate regionally on the siting or
expansion of Essential Public Facilities (see Land Use policies)54
51. Site public capital facilities of a Countywide or Statewide nature to support the
Countywide land use pattern, support economic activities, mitigate
environmental impacts, provide amenities or incentives, and minimize public
costs. Amenities or incentives shall be provided to neighborhoods/jurisdictions
in which facilities are sited.55
52. Work with affected citizens, property owners and the neighboring cities of
SeaTac, Kent, and Seattle to develop interlocal agreements that may be
necessary to address concerns regarding shared borders.56
GOAL 10 Benefit the community by participating in regional, State, and national
forums.'
s° 2015 Policy 15.1.
512015 Policy 15.1.8
52 2015 Policy 15.1.9
53 2015 Goal 15.2
54 New Policy based on other 15.2 policies
55 2015 Policy 15.3
56 2015 Policy 1.5.2
57 2015 Goal 15.2
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DRAFT
COMMUNITY CHARACTER
Comprehensive Plan
53. Enhance Tukwila's interests through participation in regional, State, and
national organizations and committees, and by developing partnerships that can
benefit the City, its residents, businesses, and the natural environments$
RELATED INFORMATION
Tukwila Strategic Plan
Tukwila Capital Improvement Program
Food Desert
Food Innovation Network
58 2015 Policy 15.3.1
22
DRAFT
LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS & POLICIES
Regional Roles and Obligations
GOAL Land Use Policies are consistent with state, regional and county requirements, and are
updated to integrate new information to enable informed decisions.
POLICIES
1. Monitor and maintain comprehensive plan goals and policies that are consistent
with county -wide and regional planning policies 1
2. Provide a consistent population projection throughout the plan, consistent with King
County's sub -county allocation of that forecast for housing needs and employment
targets.2
3. Utilize a buildable lands program that meets or exceeds the review and evaluation
requirements of the Growth Management Act. The purposes of the buildable lands
program are:
a. To collect and analyze data on development activity, including land supply,
zoning, development standards, land uses, critical areas, and capacity for
residential, commercial, and industrial land uses in urban areas;
b. To determine whether jurisdictions are achieving urban densities and planned
growth consistent with comprehensive plans, countywide planning policies, and
multicounty planning policies; and
c. To evaluate the sufficiency of land capacity to accommodate growth for the
remainder of the planning period.'
4. Regularly monitor the City's land use plan, development regulations, and standards
to guide progress toward the City meeting its identified growth targets.4
5. Maintain a comprehensive land use map that designates future land use and urban
growth areas.'
Land Use Pattern
Growth
1 Department of Commerce Policy LU-1 ([RCW 36.70A.210 WAC 365-196-305)
2 Department of Commerce Policy LU-4 (RCW 36.70A.115, RCW 43.62.035 and WAC 365-196-405(f))
3 King County Policy DP-20
4 King County DP-21
5 Department of Commerce Policy LU-2
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
GOAL
POLICIES
Growth is actively guided and managed in a way that:
• Preserves and enhances the quality of life and the diverse residential neighborhoods
of the community, and serves them with vibrant business districts, open space,
recreational facilities, affordable housing, and other supportive land uses;
• Maximizes and leverages public infrastructure investments, including public transit
facilities;
• Protects environmentally critical areas and shorelines; and
• Promotes economic development.
6. Promote a pattern of compact development within the City that includes housing in
a range of urban densities, commercial and industrial development, and other urban
facilities, including medical, governmental, institutional, educational uses and
schools, and parks and open space.
7. The Tukwila Urban Growth Area promotes a mix of uses that are convenient to, and
support, public transportation, in an effort to reduce reliance on single -occupancy
vehicle travel for most daily activities.'
8. Develop and use residential, commercial, and manufacturing land efficiently within
the City to create healthy, vibrant, and equitable urban communities that offer a full
range of urban services. Promote the efficient use of land within Tukwila by:
a. Focusing housing and employment growth and infill development in areas such
as the City's designated regional centers, transit station areas, and locally
designated local centers consistent with the goals of the Vision 2050 (the
Regional Growth Strategy);'
b. Optimizing the use of existing capacity for housing and employment;
c. Redeveloping underutilized lands, in a manner that considers equity and
mitigates displacement; and
d. Coordinating plans for land use, transportation, schools, capital facilities, and
services.'
Comprehensive Plan Designations
GOAL
POLICIES
Comprehensive Plan Designations provide general direction for desired land uses
present in the designation or anticipated in future development in the designation over
the planning period. Zoning Districts should correspond with Comprehensive Plan
Designations when areas are redesignated as a new Zoning District (see table 1).
6 King County Policy DP-2 (partial)
7 King County Policy DP-3 and 4 (partial).
8 King County Policy DP-3 (partial)
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
Residential
9. Community Residential (CR) designated areas are characterized a variety of low and
medium -density housing types including but not limited to single-family, duplexes,
triplexes, fourplexes, townhomes, cottage housing, courtyard apartments, accessory
housing units, and their accessory uses, along with educational, institutional, and
recreational uses. These uses and densities are modified where covered by the
Commercial Redevelopment and Urban Renewal Overlays.
10. High Density Residential (HDR) designated areas are characterized by larger and
higher density multi -family buildings and their accessory uses, along with
educational, institutional, and recreational uses. These uses and densities are
modified where covered by the Commercial Redevelopment and Urban Renewal
Overlays.
Commercial
11. Office (0) designated areas are characterized by professional and commercial office
structures mixed with retail.
Mixed Use
12. Mixed Use Office (MUO) designated areas are characterized by professional and
commercial office structures, mixed with retail and residential uses. These uses and
densities are modified where covered by the Tukwila South Overlay.
13. Neighborhood Commercial Center (NCC) designated areas are areas characterized
and scaled to serve multiple residential areas with a diverse mix of uses. Uses
include commercial; residential, including senior citizen housing; retail; service;
office; and recreational and community facilities, generally along a transportation
corridor. These uses are modified where covered by the Urban Renewal Overlay.
14. Residential Commercial Center (RCC) designated areas are pedestrian -friendly areas
characterized and scaled to serve a local neighborhood, with a diverse mix of uses.
Uses include certain commercial; residential; retail; service; office; and recreational
and community facilities.
15. Regional Commercial (RC) designated areas are characterized by residential, mixed
use, commercial services, offices, lodging, entertainment, and retail activities.
16. Regional Commercial Mixed -Use (RCM) designated areas are areas characterized by
commercial services, offices, lodging, entertainment, retail activities and associated
warehousing, and certain accessory light industrial uses. Residential uses mixed with
certain commercial uses are also allowed.
17. The Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) designated Southcenter Urban Center subarea is
intended to develop as a high -density, regionally -oriented, mixed -use center.
Residential development is encouraged in proximity to water amenities, or within
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station or the bus transit
center. It contains five sub -districts differentiated through uses and development
standards: Regional Center (RC), Transit -Oriented Development (TOD), Pond (P),
Commercial Corridor (CC), and Workplace (WP).
18. The Tukwila Valley South (TVS) designated areas are characterized by high -intensity
regional uses that include commercial services, offices, light industry, warehousing
and retail, with heavy industrial subject to a Conditional Use Permit. Mixed -use
residential is conditionally permitted within 500 feet of the Green River. These uses
and densities are modified where covered by the Tukwila South Overlay.
Industrial
19. Commercial/Light Industrial (C/LI) designated areas are characterized by a mix of
commercial, office or light industrial uses.
20. Light Industrial (LI) designated areas are characterized by distributive and light
manufacturing uses, with supportive commercial and office uses.
21. Heavy Industrial (HI) designated areas characterized by heavy or bulk manufacturing
uses and distributive and light manufacturing uses, with supportive commercial and
office uses. These uses are modified where covered by the Tukwila South Overlay.
22. Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Light (MIC/L) designated areas are a major
regional employment area containing distributive, light manufacturing and limited
office uses, with supportive commercial and office uses.
23. Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Heavy (MIC/H) designated areas are a major
regional employment area containing distributive, light manufacturing and heavy
manufacturing uses, with supportive commercial and office uses.
Table 1
Comprehensive Plan Designation
Corresponding Zoning
Classifications
Residential
Community Residential (CR)
Community Residential
(CR), Low Density
Residential (LDR), Medium
Density Residential (MDR)
High Density Residential (HDR)
High Density Residential
(HDR)
Commercial
Office (0)
Office (0)
Mixed Use
Mixed Use Office (MUO)
Mixed Use Office (MUO)
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
Neighborhood Commercial Center (NCC)
Neighborhood
Commercial Center (NCC)
Regional Commercial (RC)
Regional Commercial (RC)
Residential Commercial Center (RCC)
Residential Commercial
Center (RCC)
Regional Commercial Mixed Use (RCM)
Regional Commercial
Mixed Use (RCM)
Tukwila Urban Center (Regional Growth
Center)
TUC -CC, TUC-P, TUC -RC,
TUC-TOD, TUC-WP
Tukwila Valley South (TVS)
Tukwila Valley South (TVS)
Industrial
Commercial/Light Industrial (C/LI)
C/LI
Light Industrial (LI)
LI
Heavy Industrial (HI)
HI
Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Light
(MIC/L) (Regional Employment Center)
MIC/L
Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Heavy
(MIC/H) (Regional Employment Center)
MIC/H
Special Overlays
GOAL
POLICIES
Annexation
Special Overlays are designated where appropriate to reflect unique public ownership,
programs, agreements, or area specific intentions for development, amending or
superseding the development standards of the underlying zoning district.
24. Areas under the Public Recreation Overlay are owned or controlled by a public or
quasi -public agency, which are dedicated for either passive or active public
recreation use, or public education uses.
25. Areas under the Tukwila South Overlay includes lands designated TVS, HI, LDR and
MUO, and supersedes the provisions of the underlying zoning districts. It is intended
to create a multi -use employment center containing high technology, office,
commercial, retail and residential uses at the south end of the City.
26. Areas under the Urban Renewal Overlay apply the Tukwila International Boulevard
Revitalization and Urban Renewal Plans. The intent is to promote community
redevelopment and revitalization, and to encourage investment that supports well -
designed, compact, transit -oriented and pedestrian -friendly residential and business
developments, to activate the community along Tukwila International Boulevard.
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Comprehensive Plan
GOAL
POLICIES
The annexation process will follow County guidance in a predictable, prescribed
manner.
27. Coordinate with King County on Potential Annexation Areas and work to establish
pre -annexation agreements that identify mutual interests and ensure coordinated
planning and compatible development until annexation is feasible.9
28. Evaluate proposals to annex or incorporate urban unincorporated land based on the
following criteria, as applicable:
a. Conformance with Countywide Planning Policies including the Urban Growth
Area boundary;
b. The ability of the annexing or incorporating jurisdiction to efficiently provide
urban services at standards equal to or better than the current service providers;
c. The effect of the annexation or incorporation in avoiding or creating
unincorporated islands of development;
d. The ability of the annexing or incorporating jurisdiction to serve the area in a
manner that addresses racial and social equity and promotes access to
opportunity; and
e. Outreach to community, the interest of the community in moving forward with a
timely annexation or incorporation of the area.'°
Essential Public Facilities
GOAL
POLICIES
Essential public facilities are sited in coordination with King County, the State, and/or
other cities and tribes, with consideration being provided for environmental justice
principles that address development of healthy communities for all.
29. Ensure that any discussion of siting or expanding essential public facilities or facilities
of regional importance use a process that incorporates broad public involvement,
especially from historically marginalized and disproportionately burdened
communities, and that impacts and benefits are equitably dispersed.11
30. Ensure that regional discussions of essential public facilities siting address climate
change, equity, economic, and health impacts to communities12
A Healthy and Equitable Community
9 King County Policy DP-27
1° King County Policy DP-30
11 PF-24 (partial), with Policies 15.2.1 and 15.2.2 (partial)
12 PF-25 and Policy 15.2.3 (partial)
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
GOAL
POLICIES
Tukwila offers a land use pattern, scale, and density that supports walking, biking, and
transit, providing access to goods, services, education, employment, recreation, and
access to culturally appropriate and nutritious food.
31. Increase access to healthy and culturally relevant food in communities throughout
the City by incentivizing the location of healthy food purveyors, such as grocery
stores, farmers markets, urban agriculture programs, and community food gardens
in proximity to residential uses and transit facilities, particularly in those areas with
limited access to healthy food.13
32. Encourage locally -based food production, distribution, and choice through urban
agriculture, community gardens, farmers markets and food access initiatives.l4
33. Adopt land use and community investment strategies that promote public health
and address racially and environmentally disparate health outcomes and promote
access to opportunity. Focus on residents with the highest needs in providing and
enhancing opportunities for employment, safe and convenient daily physical activity,
social connectivity, protection from exposure to harmful substances and
environments, and housing in high opportunity areas. 15
34. Evaluate the potential physical, economic, and cultural displacement of residents
and businesses near high -capacity transit station areas, particularly for Black,
Indigenous, and other People of Color communities; immigrants and refugees, low-
income populations; disabled communities; and other communities at greatest risk
of displacement. Use a range of strategies to mitigate identified displacement
impacts. 16
35. Mitigate potential displacement from City Actions through communication and
collaboration with existing tenants, business and property owners, and seek to
replace lost commercial and residential spaces within redevelopment. 17
36. Emphasize preserving and replacing affordable housing in redevelopment.18
37. Mitigate new dense residential development from major sources of environmental
pollutants to the extent possible.
38. Link commercial areas located within approximately one -quarter -mile of residential
areas with high -quality pedestrian and bicycle access facilities. 19
13 King County Policy DP-8 (see also food policies in Community Character Element)
14 2015, Policy 1.10.2
15 King County Policy DP-6
16 King County Policy DP-34
17 PC vote tied 3:3 on whether to strike the policy (1-25-24)
18 PC vote tied 3:3 on whether to strike the policy (1-25-24)
19 2015, Policy 7.6.1
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
39. Encourage facilities and improvements that support transit use in new development,
redevelopment, and street projects. 20
40. Encourage development in a manner that supports physical activity of community
members.21
41. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions through land use strategies that promote a mix of
housing, employment, and services at densities sufficient to encourage walking,
bicycling, transit use, and other alternatives to auto travel, and by locating housing
closer to areas of high employment. 22
Land Use Compatibility and Nuisances
GOAL
POLICIES
Land uses within and adjacent to the city are located and managed in a way that
mitigate nuisances and health impacts to residents, workers, and businesses within the
City of Tukwila.
42. Coordinate with neighboring cities, tribal governments, the Port of Seattle, King
County, and other related entities to avoid or mitigate the potential cross -border
impacts of urban development and encroachment of incompatible uses.23
43. Consider regulations, infrastructure investments, or other measures as appropriate
to address major noise impacts to residents, workers, and businesses.24
44. Encourage increased residential density in areas with limited nuisance impacts.
45. Avoid locating land uses and infrastructure that produce unhealthy noise, vibration,
light, or odor levels in residential areas.2s 26
46. Work with the Port of Seattle, King County Airport, and the Federal Aviation
Administration to decrease adverse effects of airport operations on Tukwila and its
residents.27
47. Ensure that zoning designations discourage the siting of incompatible uses adjacent
to general aviation airports, and that proposed development adheres to
Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Aviation Administration standards.28
20 2015, Policy 1.6.4
21 Department of Commerce Policy LU-3 (RCW 36.70A.070(1) and WAC 365-196-405(2)(j))
22 King County Policy DP-5
23 King County Policy DP-23
24 2015, Policy 7.8.1 (partial)
25 2015, Policy 7.8.4
26 Planning Commission recommendation (1-25-24)
272015, Policy 7.8.6
28 Department of Commerce Policy LU-9 and 2015 7.8.7 9 (partial). [RCW 36.70A.510, RCW 36.70.547 Note: The plan
(and associated regulations) must be filed with the Aviation Division of WSDOT. WAC 365-196-455]
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LAND USE
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Subareas in Tukwila
Boeing Access Road Station Area
GOAL
POLICIES
The Boeing Access Road InfiWI Station is supported by planning efforts and accompanying
development regulations which encourage employment growth within and around the
Manufacturing Industrial Center and foster supporting uses.
48. Zoning and development regulations will be evaluated, and amended to anticipate and adapt to
impacts on the area with consideration for long-term vision, compatibility, and equity.
49. Prioritize non -motorized connections from nearby job centers and residential uses to the station
area
50. Collaborate with King County Metro and Sound Transit to ensure areas that are currently
underserved by transit benefit from the new station.
51. Engage with neighboring jurisdictions, and regional bodies, to ensure coordination regarding
planned infrastructure improvements, including station supportive bike and transit
infrastructure.
52. Consider changing infrastructure needs in capital improvement planning.
Tukwila South
GOAL
POLICIES
Tukwila South becomes a regional destination, developed with high -quality mixed use,
office, advanced manufacturing, high-tech, retail and residential uses, while protecting
the environment and providing recreational opportunities.
53. Ensure the development of Tukwila South results in a cohesive development pattern
of compatible uses and neighborhoods.
54. Design infrastructure to accommodate increased employment and residential
density over time.29
55. Encourage development in Tukwila South to have internally integrated districts and
uses, in addition to external connections to neighboring and regional assets. 30
29 2015, Policy 9.1.2
30 2015, Policies 9.1.3 & 9.1.4
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Comprehensive Plan
56. Construct a comprehensive amenity system in Tukwila South that leverages the
area's assets. "
Tukwila International Boulevard District
GOAL The Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB) District is a thriving, walkable, well-rounded
neighborhood and a desirable place to live, work, shop, worship, or play.32
GOAL At key locations on TIB, there are well -designed, pedestrian -oriented mixed -use centers
or "nodes" with distinct character.33
GOAL Tukwila International Boulevard transitions from an auto dependent former state route
toward a pedestrian focused corridor through road diet, enhanced pedestrian, and
other traffic calming measures.
POLICIES
57. Continue to focus redevelopment efforts on carefully chosen "nodes" of more
intensive development along TIB to maximize the impact of the City's investments,
create momentum, and foster faith in the vision for the TIB district.34
Tukwila Village and Transit Oriented Development Nodes
58. Ensure that the master plans for the Tukwila Village and TOD nodes encourage and
incentivize the redevelopment of large parcels, promote assembly of smaller parcels,
and identify opportunities for shared parking, pedestrian linkages, and subregional
infrastructure needs, such as surface water and recreation.35
59. Focus master planning for the nodes on non -auto -oriented uses. Emphasize good
pedestrian experiences and connections to nearby residential areas, businesses, and
amenities.'
60. Ensure that the Zoning Code and design guidelines support the types of
development envisioned in the nodes.37
Tukwila Village Node: South 144th and TIB
31 2015, Policy 9.1.5
32 2015, Policy 8.1
33 2015, Goal 8.2
34 2015, Policy 8.2.1
35 2015, Policy 8.2.7
36 2015, Policy 8.2.8
37 2015, Policy 8.2.9
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61. Designate this area for an attractive, walkable, locally -oriented mix of uses, including
multifamily residential, neighborhood -serving retail and services, restaurants, civic
and social gathering spaces, and other people -intensive and customer -oriented
activities that build on the Tukwila Village project.
62. Generate high levels of foot traffic vital to the success of the node by attracting an
"anchor" that draws customers and allows them to park once and walk to adjacent
retail.
38
Tukwila Village Node: Transit -Oriented Development (TOD) Node at Tukwila
International Boulevard Station
63. Prioritize this area for a more intensive, transit -oriented mix of mid- to high-rise
office, multifamily residential and hospitality uses and services, with structured
parking that builds on the momentum of the Tukwila International Boulevard
Station's proximity to SeaTac Airport and generates jobs for the community.39
64. Identify and promote an "identity" for the area around the Tukwila International
Boulevard Station that is distinct from other stations along the LINK light rail
alignment.40
65. Optimize opportunities for transit -supportive redevelopment in and around the
station by partnering with the City of SeaTac and Sound Transit to shape TOD
policies and practices in the master plan.41
Outside the Nodes: Land Use in Commercial and Multifamily Areas
66. On commercial properties along or near TIB, allow a diverse mix of uses, including
residential, commercial services, retail, office, recreational and community facilities
that are not in conflict with the TIB District vision of a walkable, pedestrian oriented
neighborhood.
67. Allow stand-alone multifamily residential buildings outside of the nodes.42
68. Encourage the redevelopment of commercial properties fronting TIB by allowing the
aggregation of residentially zoned parcels with commercially zoned parcels fronting
TIB, where such action:
a. expands small and/or irregularly shaped commercial districts that can't be
redeveloped per the overall goals for the area,
b. encourages redevelopment of non -conforming use sites; and
c. fronts and orients any commercial uses toward TIB.
38 2015, Policy 8.2.3
39 2015 Policy 8.2.4
40 2015 Policy 8.2.5
41 2015 Policy 8.2.6
44 2015 Goal 8.4
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69. Encourage the aggregation of commercially -zoned properties fronting TIB with
adjacent commercially -zoned properties to enhance the opportunities for
redevelopment.43
TIB as a Main Street: Street Design
GOAL
POLICIES
GOAL
POLICIES
The TIB District is a unique destination whose urban design and built form encourages
people to prioritize pedestrian safety and comfort, explore the neighborhood, and
enhance their quality of life.44
70. Traffic calming improvements prioritize comfortable and safe pedestrian
movement.'
71. Combine standards for parking placement with building site layout to achieve the
compactness of a consistent building wall and pedestrian orientation along streets
within the TIB District, where appropriate.46
72. Use incentives to encourage commercial businesses and residential buildings to
create a continuous building wall along the street edge and locate a primary
entrance from the front sidewalk, as well as from off-street parking areas, in the TIB
District where buildings are not required to locate at the back of sidewalk. Where
buildings are required to locate at the back of sidewalk, require a primary entrance
on or adjacent to the front sidewalk.47
TIB parking requirements are based on urban, rather than suburban, densities and
needs and balance the need for parking with TIB urban design goals and policies that
encourage transit use and walking.48
73. Parking requirements encourage dense development supported by major transit
facilities, and reflect the availability of transit service while accommodating the
needs of residents, workers and visitors frequenting the area. 49
44 2015 Goal 8.4
44 2015 Goal 8.4
4s 2015 Policy 8.3.1-8.3.3 (summary)
46 2015 Policy 8.4.1
47 2015 Policy 8.4.2
48 2015 Goal 8.5 (modified)
49 2015 Policy 8.5.1 (modified per PC recommendation)
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74. Explore the potential for shared parking facilities for transit riders in developments
within one-half mile walking distance of the Tukwila International Boulevard
Station.'
Walkability and Connectivity
GOAL
POLICIES
A larger network of streets, sidewalks, trails, and other public spaces throughout the TIB
District supports community interaction; connects neighborhoods, commercial areas,
civic areas, and destinations; and improves community health. The TIB District's
circulation network makes the neighborhood a great place to walk, provides mobility
and safety for all users, encourages walking, bicycling, and use of public transit, and
supports the envisioned land uses.'
75. Establish a more walkable and connected street network throughout the TIB District
by investing in public sidewalks and requiring private redevelopment projects to
organize site plan elements to allow for through connections.'
76. Consider supplemental and TIB District -specific micro -mobility transportation
systems, such e-scooters and bike share.s3
77. Work with transit agencies to expand transit service throughout the TIB District.54
78. Public transportation facilities in Tukwila are maintained to be safe, clean, and
inviting. 55
Community Texture and Diversity
GOAL
POLICIES
The TIB District takes pride in the ethnic and economic diversity of the community. TIB
has an authentic main street character that promotes the District's many positive
attributes and draws local and regional visitors.s6
79. Strive to attract and retain locally owned and operated stores, especially specialty
food stores, ethnic restaurants, service providers, and neighborhood -serving shops
such as hardware stores.57
s° 2015 Policy 8.5.2
51 2015 Goals 8.6
52 2015 Policy 8.6.1
53 2015 Policy 8.6.2
54 2015 Policy 8.6.3
55 Planning Commission Recommendation (1-25-24)
56 2015 Goal 8.7
57 2015 Policy 8.7.1
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80. Activate public and private community gathering spaces with temporary events
including food, art, music, pop -ups, and activities that leverage nearby assets, such
as schools and cultural facilities, and reflect the international, multicultural character
of the TIB area. 58
81. Create a central space for permitted food trucks, pop -ups, and a farmer's markets
where residents and visitors will gather and sample the multicultural flavor of the
TIB area.59
GOAL The TIB District has stable neighborhoods, and residents and businesses that are actively
engaged in improving the quality of life in the area."
POLICIES
82. Encourage private landowners to maintain and upgrade their property to protect the
neighborhood from adverse impacts of vacant and underutilized sites and blighted
buildings and structures.61
83. Identify and support "champions" or leaders in the business community who will
carry the vision for the TIB area, and build community interest and commitment
among diverse stakeholders.62
84. Strengthen the City's engagement with the area's business community, and cultivate
the success of the entrepreneurs and small businesses, including businesses owned
by refugees, immigrants and non -fluent English speakers.63
GOAL The TIB District is one of the safest places in South King County.64
POLICIES
85. Continue working with Sound Transit to reduce crime at the Tukwila International
Boulevard Station.65
86. Work with community to identify and address safety concerns in TIB District.
87. Consider safety in design of streets, sidewalks and public infrastructure to enhance
safety for pedestrians, cyclists and other active transportation users.
58 2015 Policy 8.7.2
59 2015 Policy 8.7.3
6o 2015 Goal 8.8
61 2015 Policy 8.8.1
62 2015 Policy 8.8.2
63 2015 Policy 8.8.3
64 2015 Goal 8.9
65 2015 Policy 8.9.1
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Comprehensive Plan
Public and Private Investment
GOAL
POLICIES
Public and private investment has catalyzed greater private investment in the TIB
District which has created additional development and business success and increased
the overall pace of redevelopment. 66
88. Invest public funds in the infrastructure and public amenities necessary to catalyze
private investment, stimulate the location of businesses and housing, and create an
attractive neighborhood.67
89. Invest public funds strategically to acquire and assemble substandard parcels, to
remove blighted uses, or make current land holdings more developable.68
90. Continue to form public/private partnerships and leverage private investment
through incentives, and limited large-scale development agreements where
appropriate 69
91. Consider using City funding and City -owned property to offset development costs of
market rate housing in "pioneering" residential or mixed -use projects.70
92. Utilize developer incentives and funding strategies that would attract uses desired
by the community, improve a project's performance, and make redevelopment
financially attractive to developers.'
93. Identify barriers to development in TIB and use available tools, including MFTE,
zoning reform, parking reform, etc., to eliminate barriers and encourage new
development supporting community needs.
94. Encourage coordinated stormwater detention and treatment for several properties
as opposed to multiple individual systems, when possible, to provide more effective
stormwater management, greater environmental benefit, and cost efficiency.72
95. Emphasize self-sustaining, living wage employment opportunities within the
District.73
96. Encourage broad -scale marketing of the TIB area, and Tukwila as a whole, in order to
draw from a broader array of potential employers.74
66 2015 Goal 8.10 (modified per PC recommendation)
67 2015 Policy 8.10.1
68 2015 Policy 8.10.2
69 2015 Policy 8.10.3
7° 2015 Policy 8.10.4
71 2015 Policy 8.10.5
72 2015 Policy 8.10.6 (will reference in Utilities/Natural Environment elements, as appropriate)
73 2015 Policy 8.10.7 (will reference in Economic Development)
74 Planning Commission Recommendation (1-25-24)
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GOALS & POLICIES
Regional Roles and Obligations
GOAL Land Use Policies are consistent with state, regional and county requirements, and are
updated to integrate new information to enable informed decisions.
POLICIES
1. Monitor and maintain comprehensive plan goals and policies that are consistent
with county -wide and regional planning policies 1
2. Provide a consistent population projection throughout the plan, consistent with King
County's sub -county allocation of that forecast for housing needs and employment
to rgets.2
3. Utilize a buildable lands program that meets or exceeds the review and evaluation
requirements of the Growth Management Act. The purposes of the buildable lands
program are:
a. To collect and analyze data on development activity, including land supply,
zoning, development standards, land uses, critical areas, and capacity for
residential, commercial, and industrial land uses in urban areas;
b. To determine whether jurisdictions are achieving urban densities and planned
growth consistent with comprehensive plans, countywide planning policies, and
multicounty planning policies; and
c. To evaluate the sufficiency of land capacity to accommodate growth for the
remainder of the planning period.'
4. Regularly monitor the City's land use plan, development regulations, and standards
to guide progress toward the City meeting its identified growth targets.'
5. Maintain a comprehensive land use map that designates future land use and urban
growth areas.s
Land Use Pattern
Growth
1 Department of Commerce Policy LU-1 ([RCW 36.70A.210 WAC 365-196-305)
2 Department of Commerce Policy LU-4 (RCW 36.70A.115, RCW 43.62.035 and WAC 365-196-405(f))
3 King County Policy DP-20
4 King County DP-21
5 Department of Commerce Policy LU-2
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Comprehensive Plan
GOAL
POLICIES
Growth is actively guided and managed in a way that:
• Preserves and enhances the quality of life and the diverse residential neighborhoods
of the community, and serves them with vibrant business districts, open space,
recreational facilities, affordable housing, and other supportive land uses;
• Maximizes and leverages public infrastructure investments, including public transit
facilities;
• Protects environmentally critical areas and shorelines; and
• Promotes economic development.
6. Promote a pattern of compact development within the City that includes housing in
a range of urban densities, commercial and industrial development, and other urban
facilities, including medical, governmental, institutional, educational uses and
schools, and parks and open space.
7. The Tukwila Urban Growth Area promotes a mix of uses that are convenient to, and
support, public transportation, in an effort to reduce reliance on single -occupancy
vehicle travel for most daily activities.'
8. Develop and use residential, commercial, and manufacturing land efficiently within
the City to create healthy, vibrant, and equitable urban communities that offer a full
range of urban services. Promote the efficient use of land within Tukwila by:
a. Focusing housing and employment growth and infill development in areas such
as the City's designated regional centers, transit station areas, and locally
designated local centers consistent with the goals of the Vision 2050 (the
Regional Growth Strategy);'
b. Optimizing the use of existing capacity for housing and employment;
c. Redeveloping underutilized lands, in a manner that considers equity and
mitigates displacement; and
d. Coordinating plans for land use, transportation, schools, capital facilities, and
services.'
Comprehensive Plan Designations
GOAL
POLICIES
Comprehensive Plan Designations provide general direction for desired land uses
present in the designation or anticipated in future development in the designation over
the planning period. Zoning Districts should correspond with Comprehensive Plan
Designations when areas are redesignated as a new Zoning District (see table 1).
6 King County Policy DP-2 (partial)
King County Policy DP-3 and 4 (partial).
8 King County Policy DP-3 (partial)
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Comprehensive Plan
Residential
9. Community Residential (CR) designated areas are characterized a variety of low and
medium -density housing types including but not limited to single-family, duplexes,
triplexes, fourplexes, townhomes, cottage housing, courtyard apartments, accessory
housing units, and their accessory uses, along with educational, institutional, and
recreational uses. These uses and densities are modified where covered by the
Commercial Redevelopment and Urban Renewal Overlays.
10. High Density Residential (HDR) designated areas are characterized by larger and
higher density multi -family buildings and their accessory uses, along with
educational, institutional, and recreational uses. These uses and densities are
modified where covered by the Commercial Redevelopment and Urban Renewal
Overlays.
Commercial
11. Office (0) designated areas are characterized by professional and commercial office
structures mixed with retail.
Mixed Use
12. Mixed Use Office (MUO) designated areas are characterized by professional and
commercial office structures, mixed with retail and residential uses. These uses and
densities are modified where covered by the Tukwila South Overlay.
13. Neighborhood Commercial Center (NCC) designated areas are areas characterized
and scaled to serve multiple residential areas with a diverse mix of uses. Uses
include commercial; residential, including senior citizen housing; retail; service;
office; and recreational and community facilities, generally along a transportation
corridor. These uses are modified where covered by the Urban Renewal Overlay.
14. Residential Commercial Center (RCC) designated areas are pedestrian -friendly areas
characterized and scaled to serve a local neighborhood, with a diverse mix of uses.
Uses include certain commercial; residential; retail; service; office; and recreational
and community facilities.
15. Regional Commercial (RC) designated areas are characterized by residential, mixed
use, commercial services, offices, lodging, entertainment, and retail activities.
16. Regional Commercial Mixed -Use (RCM) designated areas are areas characterized by
commercial services, offices, lodging, entertainment, retail activities and associated
warehousing, and certain accessory light industrial uses. Residential uses mixed with
certain commercial uses are also allowed.
17. The Tukwila Urban Center (TUC) designated Southcenter Urban Center subarea is
intended to develop as a high -density, regionally -oriented, mixed -use center.
Residential development is encouraged in proximity to water amenities, or within
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walking distance of the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station or the bus transit
center. It contains five sub -districts differentiated through uses and development
standards: Regional Center (RC), Transit -Oriented Development (TOD), Pond (P),
Commercial Corridor (CC), and Workplace (WP).
18. The Tukwila Valley South (TVS) designated areas are characterized by high -intensity
regional uses that include commercial services, offices, light industry, warehousing
and retail, with heavy industrial subject to a Conditional Use Permit. Mixed -use
residential is conditionally permitted within 500 feet of the Green River. These uses
and densities are modified where covered by the Tukwila South Overlay.
Industrial
19. Commercial/Light Industrial (C/LI) designated areas are characterized by a mix of
commercial, office or light industrial uses.
20. Light Industrial (LI) designated areas are characterized by distributive and light
manufacturing uses, with supportive commercial and office uses.
21. Heavy Industrial (HI) designated areas characterized by heavy or bulk manufacturing
uses and distributive and light manufacturing uses, with supportive commercial and
office uses. These uses are modified where covered by the Tukwila South Overlay.
22. Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Light (MIC/L) designated areas are a major
regional employment area containing distributive, light manufacturing and limited
office uses, with supportive commercial and office uses.
23. Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Heavy (MIC/H) designated areas are a major
regional employment area containing distributive, light manufacturing and heavy
manufacturing uses, with supportive commercial and office uses.
Table 1
Comprehensive Plan Designation
Corresponding Zoning
Classifications
Residential
Community Residential (CR)
Community Residential
(CR), Low Density
Residential (LDR), Medium
Density Residential (MDR)
High Density Residential (HDR)
High Density Residential
(HDR)
Commercial
Office (0)
Office (0)
Mixed Use
Mixed Use Office (MUO)
Mixed Use Office (MUO)
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Neighborhood Commercial Center (NCC)
Neighborhood
Commercial Center (NCC)
Regional Commercial (RC)
Regional Commercial (RC)
Residential Commercial Center (RCC)
Residential Commercial
Center (RCC)
Regional Commercial Mixed Use (RCM)
Regional Commercial
Mixed Use (RCM)
Tukwila Urban Center (Regional Growth
Center)
TUC -CC, TUC-P, TUC -RC,
TUC-TOD, TUC-WP
Tukwila Valley South (TVS)
Tukwila Valley South (TVS)
Industrial
Commercial/Light Industrial (C/LI)
C/LI
Light Industrial (LI)
LI
Heavy Industrial (HI)
HI
Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Light
(MIC/L) (Regional Employment Center)
MIC/L
Manufacturing Industrial Center/ -Heavy
(MIC/H) (Regional Employment Center)
MIC/H
Special Overlays
GOAL
POLICIES
Annexation
Special Overlays are designated where appropriate to reflect unique public ownership,
programs, agreements, or area specific intentions for development, amending or
superseding the development standards of the underlying zoning district.
24. Areas under the Public Recreation Overlay are owned or controlled by a public or
quasi -public agency, which are dedicated for either passive or active public
recreation use, or public education uses.
25. Areas under the Tukwila South Overlay includes lands designated TVS, HI, LDR and
MUO, and supersedes the provisions of the underlying zoning districts. It is intended
to create a multi -use employment center containing high technology, office,
commercial, retail and residential uses at the south end of the City.
26. Areas under the Urban Renewal Overlay apply the Tukwila International Boulevard
Revitalization and Urban Renewal Plans. The intent is to promote community
redevelopment and revitalization, and to encourage investment that supports well -
designed, compact, transit -oriented and pedestrian -friendly residential and business
developments, to activate the community along Tukwila International Boulevard.
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GOAL
POLICIES
The annexation process will follow County guidance in a predictable, prescribed
manner.
27. Coordinate with King County on Potential Annexation Areas and work to establish
pre -annexation agreements that identify mutual interests and ensure coordinated
planning and compatible development until annexation is feasible.9
28. Evaluate proposals to annex or incorporate urban unincorporated land based on the
following criteria, as applicable:
a. Conformance with Countywide Planning Policies including the Urban Growth
Area boundary;
b. The ability of the annexing or incorporating jurisdiction to efficiently provide
urban services at standards equal to or better than the current service providers;
c. The effect of the annexation or incorporation in avoiding or creating
unincorporated islands of development;
d. The ability of the annexing or incorporating jurisdiction to serve the area in a
manner that addresses racial and social equity and promotes access to
opportunity; and
e. Outreach to community, the interest of the community in moving forward with a
timely annexation or incorporation of the area.'°
Essential Public Facilities
GOAL
POLICIES
Essential public facilities are sited in coordination with King County, the State, and/or
other cities and tribes, with consideration being provided for environmental justice
principles that address development of healthy communities for all.
29. Ensure that any discussion of siting or expanding essential public facilities or facilities
of regional importance use a process that incorporates broad public involvement,
especially from historically marginalized and disproportionately burdened
communities, and that impacts and benefits are equitably dispersed.11
30. Ensure that regional discussions of essential public facilities siting address climate
change, equity, economic, and health impacts to communities12
A Healthy and Equitable Community
9 King County Policy DP-27
10 King County Policy DP-30
11 PF-24 (partial), with Policies 15.2.1 and 15.2.2 (partial)
12 PF-25 and Policy 15.2.3 (partial)
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Comprehensive Plan
GOAL
POLICIES
Tukwila offers a land use pattern, scale, and density that supports walking, biking, and
transit, providing access to goods, services, education, employment, recreation, and
access to culturally appropriate and nutritious food.
31. Increase access to healthy and culturally relevant food in communities throughout
the City by incentivizing the location of healthy food purveyors, such as grocery
stores, farmers markets, urban agriculture programs, and community food gardens
in proximity to residential uses and transit facilities, particularly in those areas with
limited access to healthy food.13
32. Encourage locally -based food production, distribution, and choice through urban
agriculture, community gardens, farmers markets and food access initiatives.14
33. Adopt land use and community investment strategies that promote public health
and address racially and environmentally disparate health outcomes and promote
access to opportunity. Focus on residents with the highest needs in providing and
enhancing opportunities for employment, safe and convenient daily physical activity,
social connectivity, protection from exposure to harmful substances and
environments, and housing in high opportunity areas. 1s
34. Evaluate the potential physical, economic, and cultural displacement of residents
and businesses near high -capacity transit station areas, particularly for Black,
Indigenous, and other People of Color communities; immigrants and refugees, low-
income populations; disabled communities; and other communities at greatest risk
of displacement. Use a range of strategies to mitigate identified displacement
impacts. 16
35. Mitigate potential displacement from City Actions through communication and
collaboration with existing tenants, business and property owners, and seek to
replace lost commercial and residential spaces within redevelopment. 17
36. Emphasize preserving and replacing affordable housing in redevelopment.18
37. Mitigate new dense residential development from major sources of environmental
pollutants to the extent possible.
38. Link commercial areas located within approximately one -quarter -mile of residential
areas with high -quality pedestrian and bicycle access facilities. 19
13 King County Policy DP-8 (see also food policies in Community Character Element)
14 2015, Policy 1.10.2
15 King County Policy DP-6
16 King County Policy DP-34
17 PC vote tied 3:3 on whether to strike the policy (1-25-24)
18 PC vote tied 3:3 on whether to strike the policy (1-25-24)
19 2015, Policy 7.6.1
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39. Encourage facilities and improvements that support transit use in new development,
redevelopment, and street projects. 20
40. Encourage development in a manner that supports physical activity of community
members.2'
41. Reduce greenhouse gas emissions through land use strategies that promote a mix of
housing, employment, and services at densities sufficient to encourage walking,
bicycling, transit use, and other alternatives to auto travel, and by locating housing
closer to areas of high employment. 22
Land Use Compatibility and Nuisances
GOAL
POLICIES
Land uses within and adjacent to the city are located and managed in a way that
mitigate nuisances and health impacts to residents, workers, and businesses within the
City of Tukwila.
42. Coordinate with neighboring cities, tribal governments, the Port of Seattle, King
County, and other related entities to avoid or mitigate the potential cross -border
impacts of urban development and encroachment of incompatible uses.23
43. Consider regulations, infrastructure investments, or other measures as appropriate
to address major noise impacts to residents, workers, and businesses.24
44. Encourage increased residential density in areas with limited nuisance impacts.
45. Avoid locating land uses and infrastructure that produce unhealthy noise, vibration,
light, or odor levels in residential areas.25 26
46. Work with the Port of Seattle, King County Airport, and the Federal Aviation
Administration to decrease adverse effects of airport operations on Tukwila and its
residents.27
47. Ensure that zoning designations discourage the siting of incompatible uses adjacent
to general aviation airports, and that proposed development adheres to
Environmental Protection Agency and Federal Aviation Administration standards.28
20 2015, Policy 1.6.4
21 Department of Commerce Policy LU-3 (RCW 36.70A.070(1) and WAC 365-196-405(2)(j))
22 King County Policy DP-5
23 King County Policy DP-23
24 2015, Policy 7.8.1 (partial)
25 2015, Policy 7.8.4
26 Planning Commission recommendation (1-25-24)
272015, Policy 7.8.6
28 Department of Commerce Policy LU-9 and 2015 7.8.7 9 (partial). [RCW 36.70A.510, RCW 36.70.547 Note: The plan
(and associated regulations) must be filed with the Aviation Division of WSDOT. WAC 365-196-455]
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Comprehensive Plan
Subareas in Tukwila
Boeing Access Road Station Area
GOAL
POLICIES
The Boeing Access Road Infill Station is supported by planning efforts and accompanying
development regulations which encourage employment growth within and around the
Manufacturing Industrial Center and foster supporting uses.
48. Zoning and development regulations will be evaluated, and amended to anticipate and adapt to
impacts on the area with consideration for long-term vision, compatibility, and equity.
49. Prioritize non -motorized connections from nearby job centers and residential uses to the station
area
50. Collaborate with King County Metro and Sound Transit to ensure areas that are currently
underserved by transit benefit from the new station.
51. Engage with neighboring jurisdictions, and regional bodies, to ensure coordination regarding
planned infrastructure improvements, including station supportive bike and transit
infrastructure.
52. Consider changing infrastructure needs in capital improvement planning.
Tukwila South
GOAL
POLICIES
Tukwila South becomes a regional destination, developed with high -quality mixed use,
office, advanced manufacturing, high-tech, retail and residential uses, while protecting
the environment and providing recreational opportunities.
53. Ensure the development of Tukwila South results in a cohesive development pattern
of compatible uses and neighborhoods.
54. Design infrastructure to accommodate increased employment and residential
density over time.29
55. Encourage development in Tukwila South to have internally integrated districts and
uses, in addition to external connections to neighboring and regional assets. 30
29 2015, Policy 9.1.2
3° 2015, Policies 9.1.3 & 9.1.4
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
56. Construct a comprehensive amenity system in Tukwila South that leverages the
area's assets. 31
Tukwila International Boulevard District
GOAL The Tukwila International Boulevard (TIB) District is a thriving, walkable, well-rounded
neighborhood and a desirable place to live, work, shop, worship, or play.3z
GOAL At key locations on TIB, there are well -designed, pedestrian -oriented mixed -use centers
or "nodes" with distinct character.33
GOAL Tukwila International Boulevard transitions from an auto dependent former state route
toward a pedestrian focused corridor through road diet, enhanced pedestrian, and
other traffic calming measures.
POLICIES
57. Continue to focus redevelopment efforts on carefully chosen "nodes" of more
intensive development along TIB to maximize the impact of the City's investments,
create momentum, and foster faith in the vision for the TIB district.34
Tukwila Village and Transit Oriented Development Nodes
58. Ensure that the master plans for the Tukwila Village and TOD nodes encourage and
incentivize the redevelopment of large parcels, promote assembly of smaller parcels,
and identify opportunities for shared parking, pedestrian linkages, and subregional
infrastructure needs, such as surface water and recreation.35
59. Focus master planning for the nodes on non -auto -oriented uses. Emphasize good
pedestrian experiences and connections to nearby residential areas, businesses, and
amenities.36
60. Ensure that the Zoning Code and design guidelines support the types of
development envisioned in the nodes.37
Tukwila Village Node: South 144th and TIB
31 2015, Policy 9.1.5
32 2015, Policy 8.1
33 2015, Goal 8.2
34 2015, Policy 8.2.1
35 2015, Policy 8.2.7
36 2015, Policy 8.2.8
37 2015, Policy 8.2.9
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
61. Designate this area for an attractive, walkable, locally -oriented mix of uses, including
multifamily residential, neighborhood -serving retail and services, restaurants, civic
and social gathering spaces, and other people -intensive and customer -oriented
activities that build on the Tukwila Village project.
62. Generate high levels of foot traffic vital to the success of the node by attracting an
"anchor" that draws customers and allows them to park once and walk to adjacent
retail.
38
Tukwila Village Node: Transit -Oriented Development (TOD) Node at Tukwila
International Boulevard Station
63. Prioritize this area for a more intensive, transit -oriented mix of mid- to high-rise
office, multifamily residential and hospitality uses and services, with structured
parking that builds on the momentum of the Tukwila International Boulevard
Station's proximity to SeaTac Airport and generates jobs for the community.39
64. Identify and promote an "identity" for the area around the Tukwila International
Boulevard Station that is distinct from other stations along the LINK light rail
alignment.40
65. Optimize opportunities for transit -supportive redevelopment in and around the
station by partnering with the City of SeaTac and Sound Transit to shape TOD
policies and practices in the master plan.41
Outside the Nodes: Land Use in Commercial and Multifamily Areas
€ —On commercial properties along or near TIB, allow:
a-66. a diverse mix of uses, including residential, commercial services, retail, office,
recreational and community facilities that are not in conflict with the TIB District
vision of a walkable, pedestrian oriented neighborhood.
b. types of light industrial uscs that require hands on labor and operate in such a
manner that minimal nuisances arc cr atcd, and thc scale of such activities does
not conflict with thc TIB District vision of a walkable, pedestrian oriented
neighborhood.'
67. Allow stand-alone multifamily residential buildings outside of the nodes.43
68. Encourage the redevelopment of commercial properties fronting TIB by allowing the
aggregation of residentially zoned parcels with commercially zoned parcels fronting
TIB, where such action:
38 2015, Policy 8.2.3
39 2015 Policy 8.2.4
40 2015 Policy 8.2.5
41 2015 Policy 8.2.6
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
a. expands small and/or irregularly shaped commercial districts that can't be
redeveloped per the overall goals for the area,
b. encourages redevelopment of non -conforming use sites; and
c. fronts and orients any commercial uses toward TIB.
69. Encourage the aggregation of commercially -zoned properties fronting TIB with
adjacent commercially -zoned properties to enhance the opportunities for
redevelopment.44
TIB as a Main Street: Street Design
GOAL
POLICIES
GOAL
POLICIES
The TIB District is a unique destination whose urban design and built form encourages
people to prioritize pedestrian safety and comfort, explore the neighborhood, and
enhance their quality of life.4s
70. Traffic calming improvements prioritize comfortable and safe pedestrian
movement.46
71. Combine standards for parking placement with building site layout to achieve the
compactness of a consistent building wall and pedestrian orientation along streets
within the TIB District, where appropriate.47
72. Use incentives to encourage commercial businesses and residential buildings to
create a continuous building wall along the street edge and locate a primary
entrance from the front sidewalk, as well as from off-street parking areas, in the TIB
District where buildings are not required to locate at the back of sidewalk. Where
buildings are required to locate at the back of sidewalk, require a primary entrance
on or adjacent to the front sidewalk.48
TIB parking requirements are based on urban, rather than suburban, densities and
needs and balance the need for parking with TIB urban design goals and policies that
encourage transit use and walking.49
73. Recognize that parking needs will generally be Icss for uscs in close proximity to
transit and along neighborhood shopping streets because many shoppers will arrive
on foot, by transit, or bicycleParking requirements encourage dense development
45 2015 Goal 8.4
46 2015 Policy 8.3.1-8.3.3 (summary)
47 2015 Policy 8.4.1
48 2015 Policy 8.4.2
49 2015 Goal 8.5 (modified)
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LAND USE
supported by major transit facilities, and reflect the availability of transit service
while accommodating the needs of residents, workers and visitors frequenting the
area.
74. Explore the potential for shared parking facilities for transit riders in developments
within one-half mile walking distance of the Tukwila International Boulevard
Station.'
50
Walkability and Connectivity
GOAL
POLICIES
A larger network of streets, sidewalks, trails, and other public spaces throughout the TIB
District supports community interaction; connects neighborhoods, commercial areas,
civic areas, and destinations; and improves community health. The TIB District's
circulation network makes the neighborhood a great place to walk, provides mobility
and safety for all users, encourages walking, bicycling, and use of public transit, and
supports the envisioned land uses.'
75. Establish a more walkable and connected street network throughout the TIB District
by investing in public sidewalks and requiring private redevelopment projects to
organize site plan elements to allow for through connections.s3
76. Consider supplemental and TIB District -specific micro -mobility transportation
systems, such e-scooters and bike share.s4
77. Work with transit agencies to expand transit service throughout the TIB District.ss
78. Public transportation facilities in Tukwila are maintained to be safe, clean, and
inviting. s6
Community Texture and Diversity
GOAL
POLICIES
The TIB District takes pride in the ethnic and economic diversity of the community. TIB
has an authentic main street character that promotes the District's many positive
attributes and draws local and regional visitors.'
5o 2015 Policy 8.5.1 (modified per PC recommendation)
51 2015 Policy 8.5.2
52 2015 Goals 8.6
53 2015 Policy 8.6.1
54 2015 Policy 8.6.2
55 2015 Policy 8.6.3
56 Planning Commission Recommendation (1-25-24)
5' 2015 Goal 8.7
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51
LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
79. Strive to attract and retain locally owned and operated stores, especially specialty
food stores, ethnic restaurants, service providers, and neighborhood -serving shops
such as hardware stores.58
80. Activate public and private community gathering spaces with temporary events
including food, art, music, pop -ups, and activities that leverage nearby assets, such
as schools and cultural facilities, and reflect the international, multicultural character
of the TIB area. S9
81. Create a central space for permitted food trucks, pop -ups, and a farmer's markets
where residents and visitors will gather and sample the multicultural flavor of the
TIB area.60
GOAL The TIB District has stable neighborhoods, and residents and businesses that are actively
engaged in improving the quality of life in the area.61
POLICIES
82. Encourage private landowners to maintain and upgrade their property to protect the
neighborhood from adverse impacts of vacant and underutilized sites and blighted
buildings and structures.62
83. Identify and support "champions" or leaders in the business community who will
carry the vision for the TIB area, and build community interest and commitment
among diverse stakeholders.63
84. Strengthen the City's engagement with the area's business community, and cultivate
the success of the entrepreneurs and small businesses, including businesses owned
by refugees, immigrants and non -fluent English speakers.64
GOAL The TIB District is one of the safest places in South King County.65
POLICIES
85. Continue working with Sound Transit to reduce crime at the Tukwila International
Boulevard Station.66
86. Work with community to identify and address safety concerns in TIB District.
87. Consider safety in design of streets, sidewalks and public infrastructure to enhance
safety for pedestrians, cyclists and other active transportation users.
S8 2015 Policy 8.7.1
S9 2015 Policy 8.7.2
60 2015 Policy 8.7.3
61 2015 Goal 8.8
62 2015 Policy 8.8.1
63 2015 Policy 8.8.2
64 2015 Policy 8.8.3
65 2015 Goal 8.9
66 2015 Policy 8.9.1
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LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan
Public and Private Investment
GOAL
POLICIES
Public and private investment has catalyzed greater private investment in the TIB
District which has createdsparkcd additional project development and business success
and increased the overall pace of redevelopment. 67
88. Invest public funds in the infrastructure and public amenities necessary to catalyze
private investment, stimulate the location of businesses and housing, and create an
attractive neighborhood.68
89. Invest public funds strategically to acquire and assemble substandard parcels, to
remove blighted uses, or make current land holdings more developable.69
90. Continue to form public/private partnerships and leverage private investment
through incentives, and limited large-scale development agreements where
appropriate 70
91. Consider using City funding and City -owned property to offset development costs of
market rate housing in "pioneering" residential or mixed -use projects.71
92. Utilize developer incentives and funding strategies that would attract uses desired
by the community, improve a project's performance, and make redevelopment
financially attractive to developers.72
93. Identify barriers to development in TIB and use available tools, including MFTE,
zoning reform, parking reform, etc., to eliminate barriers and encourage new
development supporting community needs.
94. Encourage coordinated stormwater detention and treatment for several properties
as opposed to multiple individual systems, when possible, to provide more effective
stormwater management, greater environmental benefit, and cost efficiency.73
95. Emphasize self-sustaining, living wage employment opportunities within the
District.74
96. Encourage broad -scale marketing of the TIB area, and Tukwila as a whole, in order to
draw from a broader array of potential employers.75
67 2015 Goal 8.10 (modified per PC recommendation)
68 2015 Policy 8.10.1
69 2015 Policy 8.10.2
70 2015 Policy 8.10.3
71 2015 Policy 8.10.4
72 2015 Policy 8.10.5
73 2015 Policy 8.10.6 (will reference in Utilities/Natural Environment elements, as appropriate)
74 2015 Policy 8.10.7 (will reference in Economic Development)
75 Planning Commission Recommendation (1-25-24)
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53
54
Land Use
Designations
CR- Community
Residential
HDR - High Density Res.
MUO - Mixed Use Office
0 - Office
RCC - Residential Corn.
Center
NCC - Neighborhood
Com, Center
RC- Regional Corn.
District
RCM - Regional Corn.
Mixed -Use
CJLI - Com. 1 Light Ind.
HI - Heavy Incl.
LI- Light Ind.
MIC/L- Manufacturing
Ind, Center (Light)
A MICIH - Manufacturing
Ind. Center (Heavy)
TVS -Tukwila Valley
South
TUC - Pond
„Ai TUC- Regional Center
TUC -Commercial
Corridor
1111 TUC -workplace
TUC -TOD
j__; Tukwila Urban Center
North Tukwila
Manufacturing Industrial
Center
_— Link Light Rail
.-.l�— Sounder Commuter Rail
C_1 City Limits
r , potential Annexation
Area
I ' 1
0 0.5 1 Miles
55
56
DRAFT
REGIONAL CENTERS
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS AND POLICIES
Southcenter Urban Center
The following goals, policies and strategies reflect the established vision for Southcenter. These
policies will help achieve the desired form and function ofTukwila's urban center over the 30- to 50-
year planning period.
These goals and policies cover the issues of land use, urban development, and transportation and
circulation. They support development and protection of the long-term economic and
environmental sustainability of Southcenter by fostering an attractive and functional environment to
live and recreate, as well as retain its reputation as a good place to work, shop, and do business.
Goal RC-S-1
Land Use Policies
Policy RC-S-1.1
Land Use: Southcenter will contain an intense, diverse mix of uses,
which will evolve over time. The character and pace of this change
will be set by a combination of guidelines, regulations, incentives,
market conditions, and proactive private/publicactions, which will
reinforce existing strengths and open new opportunities. The desire
for a high -quality environment for workers, visitors and residents will
also drive this character transition.
Southcenter Character. Raise awareness of Southcenter as a regional
commercial/industrial area, with opportunitiesforhigh-quality,mixed-use transit -
oriented development including housing, served by a balance of auto, pedestrian,
bicycle, and transit facilities (Figures 10-2 and 10-3).
Policy RC-S-1.2 Private and Public Investment. Private and public investment will be aimed at
facilitating and encouraging overall growth and redevelopment in Southcenter.
Policy RC-S-1.3
Policy RC-S-1.4
Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) "Districts." Southcenter encompasses a
relatively large area containing a wide variety of uses. To create a more coherent
urban form and enhance the Center's long-term competitive edge within the region,
guide development and change to create distinct areas, or districts, where the
character, forms, types of uses and activities benefit, complement, and support each
other.
Tukwila Urban Center (Southcenter) Residential Uses. To provide a diverse set of
housing alternatives and locations, a large percentage of theCity'sfuture housing
needs will be accommodated in the urban center. Residential development is
especially encouraged in proximityto water amenities or within walking distance of
the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station or the bus transit center, subject to design
57
DRAFT
REGIONAL CENTERS
standards and incentives.
Defined building boys to break
up length of building
GOAL RC-S-2
Canopies and overhangs —
to shelter pedestrians
Ftal roofs ornamented Architectural elements to
with structural expression create vortical oppawonce only at upper sfories
Less transparent
tgyf erRie
..••17
roe.
4hI1
Ni'I'il■* ��l Intl. 11111 mi .���I� *� _4ii1
Grand entrance feature identified
by massing end derailing A
Transparent Facade
of ground floor
Figure X: Envisioned Medium -Density Development in Tukwila
Fides non -scaled
building
facade
Urban Development: The northern portion of the Southcenter area
will contain a central focus area. Throughout Southcenter, the natural
and built environments are attractive, functional, environmentally
sustainable, and distinctive, and support a range of mixed uses
promoting business, shopping, recreation, entertainment, and
residential opportunities.
Urban Development Policies
Policy RC-S-2.1 Natural Environment: Recognize, protect, and enhance the open space network by:
augmenting existing parks; enhancing access to passive and active recreation areas
such as Tukwila Pond, Minkler Pond, and the Green River; and by improving air and
water quality and preserving natural resources, thereby effectively integrating the
natural and built environments in Southcenter. In addition, recognize that open
space amenities are attractors for a wide range of uses, including housing and office
(Figure X).
Policy RC-S-2.2
Policy RC-S-2.3
Streets, Streetscape, and Pedestrian Environment. Create a "complete street"
network that establishes a finer -grained street grid; reflects the demand and need
for motor vehicles, transit, pedestrians, and bicyclists; and provides a safe,
convenient, attractive, and comfortable pedestrian and bicycling environment.
Ensure that street design eliminates potential conflicts, promotes safety for all
modes of travel, and maintains emergency services response capabilities. Reinforce
the different functions of streets by creating distinct identities for major rights -of -
way (Figure X).
Site Development. Create regulations and design guidelines that result in high -
quality sitedesign and enjoyable and safe pedestrian environments, using site
design techniques that include but are not limited to:
58
DRAFT
REGIONAL CENTERS
Comprehensive Plan
Policy RC-S-2.4
Policy RC-S-2.5
Policy RC-S-2.6
Policy RC-S-2.7
Policy RC-S-2.8
Policy RC-S-2.9
• integrating architectural, site design and landscape elements.
■ supporting motor vehicle, transit service, and pedestrian traffic by ensuring that
new development and infrastructure are designed and constructed consistent
with adopted standards and subarea plans.
• using physical and natural elements that enhance an area's overall aesthetic,
including orienting a building to the street (Figure 10-6).
• extending the street grid system.
Pedestrian Accessibility. Ensure that pedestrians have safe, convenient, and
comfortable paths from adjacent public ways to key building entrances. This could
include utilizing driveways or internal streets with sidewalks for access to primary
entrances, or by providing clearly marked pathways through large parking lots from
the public sidewalks and from parked cars to key building entrances. There should
be minimum interruption to the pedestrian pathway by driveways and other
vehicular conflicts (Figure X).
Siting and orientation of buildings and parking lots should create an environment
that is conducive to walking in the northern part of the Southcenter area,
particularly in the area between the Mall, the bus transit center, Tukwila Pond, and
the Sounder commuter rail/Amtrak station.
Require interior vehicular connection between adjacent parking areas wherever
possible.
Development standards will consider the needs of landowners, developers,
businesses, and the community.
Parking. Ensure an adequate supply of parking for visitors, employees, residents,
and customers. Provide a variety of flexible regulations, strategies, and programs to
meet, and over the longer term reduce, parking demands. Ongoing needs will also
be assessed to ensure appropriate parking requirements and to encourage efficient
and effective use of land in parking design.
Building Design. Promote high quality architecture in Southcenter, with attention to
standards and guidelines that:
• Promote an appropriate display of scale and proportion.
• Give special attention to developing pedestrian -oriented features and
streetfront activity areas such as ground floor windows, modulated building
facades, and rich details in material and signage.
• Provide quality landscape treatment that emphasizes shade trees.
■ Provide an appropriate relationship to adjacent sites and features.
• Encourage overall building quality, and sensitivity to — and respect for — the
area's important natural amenities such as the Green River and Tukwila Pond.
• Include property owners in developing urban design guidelines to ensure that
the intent of this policy is met.
59
DRAFT
REGIONAL CENTERS
Comprehensive Plan
Policy RC-S-2.10 Signage. Develop a directional sign program to aid pedestrians, bicyclists, and
motorists in wayfinding through Southcenter.
Policy RC-S-2.11
Work collaboratively with Southcenter property owners, businesses, and
community members to implement the vision for Southcenter, assess the
potential to catalyze development in the Southcenter area, and form an economic
redevelopment strategy.
Manufacturing Industrial Center
GOAL RC-MIC-1 Support for existing industrial activities in the Manufacturing/
Industrial Center and development of new industrial activity, in order
to maximize the employment and economic benefits to the people of
Tukwila and the region, while minimizing impacts on residential
neighborhoods.
POLICIES
Policies are designed to take advantage of the development and improvement opportunities offered by
the MIC and to realize its full revenue and employment potential.
Support New Development
Policy RC-MIC-1.1 Support the efforts of existing industries to expand and new industrial businesses to
develop in the Manufacturing/Industrial Center by providing them with economic
data, information on available development sites, help in understanding and getting
through the permit processes, and other appropriate assistance.
Policy RC-MIC-1.2 Assist landowners in remediating site problems caused by contaminated soil.
Simplify Permit Processing
These policies aim at reducing unpredictable permit conditions and permit review time.
Policy RC-MIC-1.3 Develop appropriate permit processes that minimize lengthy public review and
simplify the development permit process, while providing meaningful opportunities
for citizen input and protecting the environment.
Policy RC-MIC-1.4 Tailor Manufacturing/Industrial Center shoreline requirements to achieve
consistency between Shoreline and MIC element goals and policies.
DRAFT
REGIONAL CENTERS
Comprehensive Plan
Protect the Land Resource
The land in the Manufacturing/Industrial Center must be used effectively to allow it to generate its
potential of high -wage jobs and public revenue.
Policy RC-MIC-1.5 Allow uses that are commonly associated with manufacturing and industry, including
those directly supporting such activity, such as offices and laboratories, while
limiting unrelated uses.
Policy RC-MIC-1.6 Develop and designate appropriate zoning, buffers, mitigation, and access
opportunities where manufacturing zoning directly abuts or impacts residential
zoning so that MIC uses may operate without significant degradation of the
residential environment.
Protect Adjacent Non -Industrial Land Uses from Negative Health Impacts'
Policy RC-MIC-1.7 Minimize or mitigate potential health impacts of the activities in
manufacturing/industrial centers on residential communities, schools, open space,
and other public facilities.
Improve Duwamish River Access
The Duwamish River as a natural amenity can be an asset to the industrial community.
Policy RC-MIC-1.8 Support the Duwamish River becoming a natural feature amenity in the
Manufacturing Industrial Center.
Policy RC-MIC-1.9 Improve public access and use of the west side of the river, protecting owner's rights
to reasonable use and enjoyment, improve employee access to the east side of the
river, and emphasize restoration on both sides of the river.
Improve Transportation Flow
Work with other governmental agencies to address transportation problems.
Policy RC-MIC-1.10 Reduce reliance on the single- occupancy vehicle for transportation of employees in
and out of the MIC.
Continue Intergovernmental Coordination
Work with other jurisdictions as required to ensure that the economic purpose of the MIC is fulfilled.
Policy RC-MIC-1.11 Make appropriate adjustments to the boundaries between Tukwila, King County and
Seattle.
Policy RC-MIC-1.11 Work with other jurisdictions to bring about necessary changes in laws and
regulations and to develop other approaches to solving common problems.
1 This policy was moved from another element.
61
DRAFT
REGIONAL CENTERS
Comprehensive Plan
RELATED INFORMATION
Southcenter
Vision 2040
King County Countywide Planning Policies
Growth Transportation Efficiency Center (GTEC)
Manufacturing/Industrial Center
MIC Background Report
MIC Issues and Opportunities Report
Attachment A: Business Stakeholder Survey Summary
Attachment B: MIC Business Survey Tabulation
MIC Integrated GMA Implementation Plan ("Planned Action")
JV City of Tukwila
•> . Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
Housing Element
GOAL 3.1 - Support housing growth consistent with regional targets.
(Revised 3.1)
3.1.1 Ensure zoned capacity is sufficient and encourages housing construction
sufficient to meet the regional growth target of at least 5,045 additional housing
units by 2044. (Revised 3.1.1)
3.1.2 Identify and remove excessive regulatory barriers to housing production. (Revised
3.1.2)
3.1.3 Modify residential zoning designations and development standards to align with
city goals, and periodically assess the amount of housing produced under these
standards. (New policy)
3.1.4 Encourage housing growth near major transit stops, especially high -capacity
transit nodes and in Southcenter/Tukwila Urban Center. (New Policy)
3.1.5 Align development regulations to market conditions to reduce reliance on time -
and funding -intensive development agreements. (New Policy)
GOAL 3.2 - Promote safe, healthy, and affordable housing choices
for residents of all income levels. (Revised 3.2)
3.2.1 Encourage production in all neighborhoods of diverse housing types that are
appropriate for residents in all stages of life and all household sizes. (Revised
3.2.1)
3.2.2 Encourage housing development affordable to all income segments sufficient to
meet needs consistent with adopted targets.
3.2.3 Encourage the creation of housing for different income levels in residential areas
throughout the city (Revised 3.2.2).
3.2.4 Support the development of emergency housing, emergency shelters, and
permanent supportive housing sufficient to meet adopted targets, and ensure
that City regulations guiding such development are consistent with state and
regional guidance. (Revised 3.2.3)
3.2.5 Support siting of transitional housing and permanent supportive housing in any
zones in which residential dwelling units or hotels are allowed, and siting of
indoor emergency shelters and indoor emergency housing in any zone where
hotels are allowed in accordance with state law. (New Policy)
DRAFT Housing Element
63
JV City of Tukwila
•> . Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
3.2.6 Expand capacity for moderate density housing, i.e., "missing middle housing", in
residential areas with low -density zoning throughout the city to increase home
ownership and rental housing options. (New Policy)
3.2.7 Work with the owners and managers of Tukwila's new and existing permanent or
long-term low-income housing to maximize housing desirability, protect long-
term affordability, and strengthen community connections. (Revised 3.2.4)
3.2.8 Strive to make alternative and affordable housing options available for residents
currently living in substandard housing, such as pre -HUD code mobile homes.
(No change; formerly 3.2.6)
3.2.9 Encourage housing design that improves resilience in the face of climate -change
driven extreme weather events, such as flooding and extreme heat. (New policy)
GOAL 3.3 - Support collaborative efforts with other jurisdictions and
organizations to assess housing needs, coordinate funding, and
preserve and create affordable housing opportunities.
3.3.1 Support the equitable distribution of regional funds, such as Community
Development Block Grants, interlocal-agreement sales taxes revenue, and other
federal, State and County funding, for needed affordable housing. (Revised 3.3.1)
3.3.2 Play an active role in regional efforts to meet the needs of low-income
community members, including monitoring of housing needs and updating city
policies and regulations to align with regional goals. (Revised 3.3.2; removed
preservation clause)
3.3.3 Continue to work closely with South King Housing and Homelessness Partnership
(SKHHP) and other partners to achieve development of subsidized affordable
housing for very low-, low- and moderate -income households. (Revised 3.3.3)
GOAL 3.4 - Limit displacement impacts to vulnerable and historically
underserved populations.
3.4.1 Identify and take action to remove City policies, rules, and programs that
exacerbate racially disparate impacts. (New policy)
3.4.2 Develop and implement strategies to reduce displacement of low-income
households in areas of redevelopment. (Relocated and revised 3.2.5)
3.4.3 Evaluate City actions for potential to increase displacement risk for naturally
occurring affordable housing and vulnerable communities and mitigate or avoid
taking actions that significantly increase this risk. (New policy)
3.4.4 Support the long-term preservation of existing naturally occurring affordable
housing developments by acting as a facilitator between affordable housing
DRAFT Housing Element
64
JV City of Tukwila
•> . Comprehensive Plan DRAFT
groups interested in purchasing units and property owners. (Relocated and
revised 3.2.7)
3.4.5 Continue to improve the condition of rental housing through administration of
the Residential Rental Licensing and Inspection Program. (Relocated 3.4.1)
3.4.6 Continue to support the maintenance, weatherization, rehabilitation, and long-
term preservation or replacement of existing housing for low- and moderate -
income residents. (Relocated 3.4.2, also covers 7.5.8)
3.4.7 Continue to develop relationships with populations that have been historically
underserved and are at risk of displacement to better understand needs and risks.
(Relocated and revised 3.5.3)
3.4.8 Support programs and City actions that increase homeownership opportunities
for vulnerable populations. (New policy)
3.4.9 Adopt renter protections to ensure stable housing for Tukwila Renters.
GOAL 3.5 - Promote housing options that support personal fulfillment
and a healthy social life and are appropriate for people in all
stages of life.
3.5.1 Encourage development of housing that is appropriate for multi -generational
families, including the development of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), middle
housing, and family -sized apartments. (New policy)
3.5.2 Review and update development code to support production of housing types
that provide relatively affordable homeownership options, such as middle
housing (including townhouses) and condominiums. (New policy)
3.5.3 Encourage use of universal design principles in new housing development.
(Revised 3.5.1)
3.5.4 Assist in providing residents with the human services, economic development,
and transportation needed to increase access to housing options. (Relocated and
revised 3.5.2)
3.5.5 Support community groups that actively work to improve neighborhood quality
and strengthen sense of community. (Relocated and revised 3.6.3, also covers
7.5.1)
3.5.6 Encourage site and building design that helps reduce social isolation and
supports active lifestyles. (New policy)
3.5.7 Support the creation of co -housing, housing cooperatives, co -living buildings,
and other types of housing that provide community -oriented housing
alternatives for families, seniors, young singles, religious communities, or other
groups with specific needs. (New policy)
DRAFT Housing Element
65
JvJ City of Tukwila
>'t Comprehensive Plan
DRAFT
DRAFT Housing Element
66
DRAFT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS AND POLICIES
The following goals and policies provide the pathway how the City can realize its economic development
vision that as a vibrant community with a strong and sustainable economy that celebrates and
empowers its diversity, supports economic prosperity for all residents, and sustains a foundation for
businesses of all sizes.
GOAL ED-1 A Vibrant, Diverse, and Resilient Economy
Policy ED-1.1
Policy ED-1.2
Policy ED-1.3
Policy ED-1.4
Policy ED-1.5
Policy ED-1.6
Policy ED-1.7
Regional Economy
Continue to strengthen and balance economic and workforce development with
strategic housing growth in Tukwila to ensure an adaptable and diverse economic
base that leverages Tukwila's many assets and ensures the City's financial stability.
Attract and retain office, research, and development, advanced technology and
manufacturing, aerospace, food manufacturing, and life sciences businesses,
including those that provide services for export.1
Encourage commercial and mixed -use development that provides a range of job
opportunities throughout the city and county to create a closer balance between the
locations of jobs and housing.'
Maintain support for and strengthen Tukwila's robust retail, hospitality, and
experiential sectors.
Evaluate the performance of economic development policies and strategies in
developing businesses and creating middle -wage jobs.'
Make local investments to maintain and expand infrastructure and services that
support local and regional economic development strategies. Focus investment
where it encourages growth in designated centers and helps achieve employment
targets.'
Promote the local workforce through priority hire programs that create middle -
wage employment opportunities, encouraging workforce development
partnerships, and identifying pipeline education or training opportunities.'
1 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-6
2 King County Countywide Policy K_EC-26
King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-4
4 King County Countywide Policy K_EC-18
' Combined King County Countywide Policy K_EC-13, and PSRC Consistency tool: Economy. "...Expand access to
economic opportunities through actions such as adopting a priority hire ordinance, encouraging workforce
development partnerships, and identifying pipeline education or training opportunities...).
67
DRAFT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy ED-1.8
Coordinate local and countywide economic policies and strategies with VISION 2050
and the Regional Economic Strategy. Emphasize support for those industry clusters
that are integral to that strategy.6
Policy ED-1.9 Prioritize growth of a diversity of middle -wage jobs and prevent the loss of such jobs
from the region.'
Regional Centers
Policy ED-1.10
Concentrate economic and employment growth in designated regional, countywide,
and local centers through local investments, planning, and financial policies.'
Policy ED-1.11 Support economic growth that, along with land use planning and infrastructure
development, facilitates Tukwila meeting its designated regional growth targets.
Policy ED-1.12 Work to reduce the risk of industrial displacement through a variety of anti -
displacement strategies.'
Partnerships
Policy ED-1.13 Collaborate with the private sector to leverage catalytic development sites.
Policy ED-1.14 Build and maintain relationships with property owners and businesses.
Site Selection and Development
Policy ED-1.15 Facilitate redevelopment of contaminated sites through local, county, and state
financing and other strategies that assist with planning, site design, and funding for
environmental remediation.10
Policy ED-1.16
Continue working to achieve the vision in the Tukwila International Boulevard
District and Southcenter District, emphasizing walkability, placemaking, and
community gathering opportunities.
GOAL ED-2 A Safe, Desirable, and Healthy Community with a Positive Identity
Policy ED-2.1
Enhance Tukwila's public safety perceptions and sense of place and support a
positive identity as a city in which to "Live, Work, Stay and Play" — a community of
choice for businesses, residents and visitors with outstanding transportation, quality
housing, fun experiences, amenities, and supportive services.
Policy ED-2.2 Improve perceptions of public safety through crime reduction, visible enforcement,
improved communications, and messaging.
6 King County Countywide Policy K_EC-1 and K_EC-3.
King County Countywide Policy K_EC-2, in part
$ King County Countywide Policy K_EC-17; this policy requires a strategy
9 PSRC MIC Consistency Tool: Economy, Guidance; this policy requires a strategy
Zo King County Countywide Policy K_EC-24
68
DRAFT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy ED-2.3 Invest in placemaking efforts that stimulate and instill community pride, improve
quality of life, and welcome visitors.
Policy ED-2.4 Promote positive aspects of the Tukwila community to the region.
Policy ED-2.5
Policy ED-2.6
Add to the vibrancy and sustainability of our communities and community health
and well-being by ensuring the provision of safe and convenient access to local
services, neighborhood -oriented retail, purveyors of healthy food (e.g., grocery
stores and farmers markets), and sufficient transportation choices.'
Promote Tukwila's natural environment as a key economic asset and work to
improve access to it as an economic driver. Work cooperatively with local
businesses to protect and restore the natural environment in a manner that is
equitable, efficient, predictable, and complements economic prosperity.12
GOAL ED-3 Prosperity and Opportunity for Businesses, Workers, and Residents
Policy ED-3.1
Expand avenues of durable economic success for workers, entrepreneurs, business
owners, and residents in Tukwila, including workforce development, with a focus on
shared prosperity, opportunity, and social responsibility for local communities.
Policy ED-3.2 Promote the local workforce through priority hire programs that create middle -
wage employment opportunities in historically disadvantaged communities.'
Policy ED-3.3
Direct investments to community and economic development initiatives that
elevate equitable economic opportunity for those communities most marginalized
and impacted by disinvestment and economic disruptions14.
Workforce Development and Partnerships
Policy ED-3.4 Improve awareness of, and access to, education and workforce development
resources.
Policy ED-3.5
Facilitate connections between employers and education and workforce
development institutions, seeking to increase graduation rates and develop a highly
educated and skilled local workforce. Align and prioritize workforce development
efforts with Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color communities; immigrant
and refugees; and other marginalized communities.'
11 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-19 (Edited from original)
12 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-20
13 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-13
14 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-16
15 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-12; the PC (at their 9/28/23 mtg) wanted us to revisit this second
sentence. See minutes.
69
DRAFT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy ED-3.6 Act as a resource to residents and workers connecting them to workforce
development organizations.
Policy ED-3.7
Encourage private, public, and non-profit sectors to incorporate environmental
stewardship and social responsibility into their practices. Encourage development of
established and emerging industries, technologies and services that promote
environmental sustainability, especially those addressing climate change and
resilience.16
GOAL ED-4 A Supportive Environment for Business and Entrepreneurs
Policy ED-4.1 Maintain a strong, supportive environment for local, independent, small, and micro -
businesses and the entrepreneurial ecosystem to ensure they continue to flourish in
Tukwila while attracting new business activities to the City.
Policy ED-4.2 Where possible, ease regulations that challenge small businesses.
Policy ED-4.3 Ensure that business and entrepreneurial resources are available to those with least
access, including people of color, immigrants, and refugees.17
Policy ED-4.4 Ensure that Tukwila projects an 'open for business' culture, and help businesses
thrive through:
• Transparency, efficiency, and predictability of local regulations and policies;
• Communication and partnerships between business, government, schools, civic
and community organizations, and research institutions; and
• Government contracts with local businesses.18
Policy ED-4.5
Foster a broad range of public -private partnerships to implement economic
development policies, programs, and projects, including partnerships with
community groups. Ensure such partnerships share decision -making power with and
spread benefits to community groups.19
Policy ED-4.6 Use partnerships to foster connections between employers, local vocational and
educational programs, and community needs.20
Policy ED-4.7
Identify, support, and leverage key regional and local assets to the economy,
including assets that are unique to our region's position as an international gateway,
such as major airports, seaports, educational facilities, research institutions, health
care facilities, long -haul trucking facilities, and manufacturing facilities.21
16 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-21
17 Change recommended during City staff equity review.
18 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-5
19 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-8
20 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-9
21 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-10
70
DRAFT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy ED-4.8
Policy ED-4.9
Support the regional food economy including the production, processing,
wholesaling, and distribution of the region's agricultural food and food products to
all King County communities. Emphasize improving access for communities with
limited healthy, affordable, and culturally relevant food options.22
Develop and implement systems that provide a financial safety net during economic
downturns and recovery. Direct resources in ways that reduce inequities and build
economic resiliency for those communities most negatively impacted by asset
poverty.23
GOAL ED-5 A Community that Values Diversity and Access to Opportunity24
Policy ED-5.1 Foster a business community in Tukwila that welcomes and empowers residential
and business diversity in all its forms while capturing increased market share and
building resilience to economic shocks.
Policy ED-5.2
Policy ED-5.3
Policy ED-5.4
Policy ED-5.5
Seek to understand the dynamics, needs, and relationships within communities, and
where possible, provide crucial technical support and regulatory relief where
feasible for small businesses owned by those with least access, including people of
color, immigrants, and refugees.25
Highlight the dynamic diversity of local communities as a means to enhance social
capital, neighborhood cohesion, the county's global relationships, and support for
cultural and arts institutions.26
Promote business diversity by signaling public sector support and ensure public
investment decisions protect culturally significant economic assets and advance the
business interests of Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color communities;
immigrant and refugees; and other marginalized communities.27
Eliminate and correct for historical and ongoing disparities in income, employment,
and wealth by building opportunities for Black, Indigenous, and other People of
Color; women; and other intersecting marginalized identities.28.
22 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-11
23 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-27
24 This change was modified to reflect the City's emphasis on "inclusion" rather than "equity": equity is being
described more as creating opportunity for, and directing resources to, those with least access. We are addressing
what equity looks like when applied.
25 Policy/Strategy 5B from recently adopted Tukwila Economic Development Strategy.
26 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-14; modified by City Staff equity review
27 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-28
28 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-15
71
DRAFT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy ED-5.6
Policy ED-5.7
Promote an economic climate that is supportive of business formation, expansion,
and retention, and that emphasizes the importance of small businesses, locally
owned businesses, women -owned businesses, and businesses with Black,
Indigenous, and other People of Color; immigrant and refugee; LGBTQIA+; disabled;
and women -owned or -led businesses, in creating jobs.29
Stabilize and prevent the economic displacement of small, culturally relevant
businesses and business clusters during periods of growth, contraction, and
redevelopment. Mitigate displacement risks through monitoring and adaptive
responses.3o
RELATED INFORMATION
King County Countywide Planning Policies (2022)
Vision 2050 (2021)
Economic Development Element strategy (when available)
29 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-7
ao King County Countywide Planning Policy K_EC-29
72
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS AND POLICIES
Environmental Quality and Stewardship
GOAL EN-1 The City's air, land, and water resources are restored and protected for future
generations and are resilient to a changing climate'''.
POLICIES
Policy 1.1
Policy 1.2
Policy 1.3
14
Policy 1.4
Policy 1.5
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.11
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
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."
10 Required by GMA goals
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.
73
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 1.6
Identify and preserve regionally significant open space networks through
implementation of the Regional Open Space Conservation Plan. Develop
strategies and funding to protect lands that provide the following valuable
functions:
a. Ecosystem linkages and migratory corridors crossing jurisdictional
boundaries;
b. Physical or visual separation providing buffers between incompatible uses;
c. Active and passive outdoor recreation opportunities;
d. Wildlife habitat and migration corridors that preserve and enhance
ecosystem resiliency in the face of urbanization and climate change;
e. Preservation of ecologically sensitive, scenic, or cultural resources; and
f. Urban green space, habitats, and ecosystems.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
Policy 2.2
18
19
20
Develop and expand free or low-cost educational programs and materials for the
community about the benefits of protecting and enhancing the City's
environmentally critical areas, the urban forest and wildlife habitat, and
individual responsibilities for their stewardship in a changing climate. The City
should continue to develop and support community -oriented wildlife
educational programs, such as the Tukwila Backyard Wildlife Program, and
communicate the requirements of City environmental regulations so as to
maximize compliance and minimize code enforcement actions and
environmental degradation.17
Provide individualized education and technical support to residential property
owners and general guidance to businesses regarding environmental
stewardship and climate change resiliency strategies.
16 K_EN-20, a-f
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.
74
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 2.3
Collaborate with environmental organizations and businesses to support
recruiting and training of environmental stewards, identify and sponsor
restoration projects, incorporate climate change -focused strategies and provide
logistical support for their work. Action should be taken to encourage expanding
the citizen volunteer base in Tukwila for restoration and enhancement of the
City's natural areas to promote the continued health of these systems.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.22
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
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
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.
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.
75
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 5.2
Policy 5.3
Policy 5.4
Policy 5.5
Policy 5.6
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
Ensure that new development, open space protection efforts, and mitigation
projects support the State's streamflow restoration law. Promote robust,
healthy, and sustainable salmon populations and other ecosystem functions,
working closely within WRIA 9 and utilizing adopted watershed plans.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.3o
GOAL 6 Riparian management zones, floodplains, wetlands, and their buffers are
protected from encroachment and degradation and improved through impact
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.
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.
ao Working with regional partners will strengthen this policy and lead to better long term collaboration and results.
76
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
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
Policy 6.3 Require and enforce mitigation in order to ensure no net loss of environmentally
critical area functions, as well as mitigation designed to replace environmentally
critical area acreage lost due to development.34
Policy 6.4 Ensure the effectiveness of environmentally critical area mitigation by improving
City oversight, tracking, and monitoring of mitigation sites. 35
Policy 6.5 Allow off -site wetland mitigation only when a site -specific study, prepared by a
qualified professional, documents that there are no feasible opportunities for
on -site mitigation, is greater functional benefit, no significant adverse impact to
the drainage sub -basin, and no significant adverse impact to existing wetlands or
riparian management zones.36
Policy 6.6
Consider creating a City in -lieu fee program for future wetland mitigation, or
collaborate with King County to establish in -lieu fee sites in Tukwila for wetland
restoration projects, including projects along the Green/Duwamish River
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.
34 This policy should be revised to update the reference to environmentally critical areas.
3s 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.
77
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 6.7
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
protection, and open space to create a more climate resilient city for current
and future generations.39
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.40
Prevent and reduce pollution and sedimentation of water resources through
implementation of surface water, stormwater, and land clearing regulations and
inspections.41 42
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
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.
3° 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.
78
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 7.4
Policy 7.5
Policy 7.6
47
48
49
GOAL 8
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
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.
POLICIES
50
Policy 8.1 Require that all proposed development applications identify hydrologic features,
both on- and off -site, that could be impacted by the project. Evaluate and
prevent project impacts on on -site and off -site floodplains, wetlands, drainage
features and springs to avoid adverse impacts to existing environmentally critical
EN-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.
48 Eliminate this policy and combine it with Policy 4.7.2 as illicit surface water discharges would include pollutants
from stormwater and land clearing.
49 Eliminate this policy and incorporate it into policy 4.7.1.
so Absorbed into Policy 2.2
79
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Flood Control
GOAL 9
POLICIES
area hydrology to meet today's climate needs and prepare for future climate
needs."
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. sZ
Policy 9.1 Restrict or prohibit development that could create a danger to health, safety,
and property due to potential flood hazards.53
Policy 9.2 Coordinate and fund holistic flood hazard management efforts through the King
County Flood Control District.54
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. ss
Policy 9.4
Wetlands provide services that have the potential to reduce impacts of climate
change. As such the City of Tukwila will promote wetland restoration and
enhancement throughout the city and ensure that development avoids and
minimizes impacts to wetlands and their buffers and provides compensatory
mitigation to retain equal or greater wetland functions and values within the
same drainage basin or watershed, and results in no net loss of wetland area
except in limited circumstances.s6
Policy 9.5 Plan for changes in seasonal flood events associated with climate change and
Feduce flooding that adversely affects public health, safety, and general welfare,
"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.
52 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.
ss Complying with federal regulations is not optional. Eliminate this language as it is a requirement and should
already be occurring with development permits.
54 EN-12
ss EN-13
se This revised policy is better in line with BAS and incorporates the climate element.
80
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 9.6
Policy 9.7
and protect against flood damage through surface water and flood management
projects.57
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.58
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..59
GOAL 10 (Levees) - MOVED TO CAPITAL FACILITIES
Earth Resources
GOAL 11 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.6°
POLICIES
Policy 11.1
Policy 11.2
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.
57 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.
6a 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.
60 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.
81
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 11.3
Require the use of erosion control measures and, where warranted, written
erosion and sediment control plans, to minimize erosion during and after
construction activities on steep slopes or other erosion -prone areas.
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. 61
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.
Urban Forestry
GOAL 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.62
POLICIES
Policy 12.1
Policy 12.2
65
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.63
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.64
61 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.
62 Trees can aid in mitigating the impacts of climate change by providing shade, carbon storage and other related
benefits.
63 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.
64 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.
65 This policy should be eliminated and combined with Policy 4.12.2
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DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 12.3
Continue to fund an urban forester/municipal arborist position within the City,
to provide expertise for urban forest management planning, incorporate climate
resiliency strategies, provide oversight of tree planting and maintenance, and
assistance to all City departments that have responsibilities for tree
management.66
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.67
Policy 12.5
Policy 12.6
Policy 12.7
Policy 12.8
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.68
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.69
Consider developing an "exceptional" or "heritage" tree program to foster tree
appreciation in the community and encourage retention of open and green
spaces.70
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.71
66 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.
67 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.
68 The assessment of tree valuation should include the future benefits that trees provided in contributing to
climate resiliency, particularly for shade and carbon storage.
69 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.
70 Open spaces contribute to habitat connectivity and ecosystem functions. Retention of tree canopy can help
mitigate the urban heat island effect.
71 EN-11
83
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 12.9
Encourage public and partner organization involvement in urban forest
stewardship, through volunteer events, free training workshops, and other
related community events.72
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
individual zoning categories, or environmentally critical areas and open
spaces73
POLICIES
Policy 13.1
Policy 13.2
Policy 13.3
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.74
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.75
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.76
Policy 13.4 Conduct forest practices within environmentally critical and shoreline areas in a
manner that ensures water quality, maintains, or increases tree canopy cover,
72 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.
73 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.
74 Per 2024-29 NPDES permit
75 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.
76 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.
84
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 13.5
79 80 81 82
Policy 13.6
Policy 13.7
85
Policy 13.8
and maintains native vegetation buffer strips sufficient to protect fish
populations and to avoid erosion of stream banks.77
Ensure that required replacement trees at maturity will provide an equivalent or
greater shade cover than the removed tree(s), and replacement trees are
suitable species fit for future conditions based on climate change models. This
may result in the need to have multiple trees replace a single tree and will allow
for the flexibility of avoiding conflict with existing or future infrastructure and/or
public or private utilities.78
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.83
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.84
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
77 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.
78 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.
79 NG: We have this now.S° Added this last statement to 14-3.
80 Added this last statement to 14-3.
81 Eliminate this policy. It is repetitive of Policy 4.13.5, which we largely already have.
82 Eliminate this policy. It is repetitive of Policy 4.13.5
83 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.
84 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.
85 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.
85
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
currently underserved or lack proximity to public open spaces and recreational
areas.86
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
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 4.13.8.87
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."88
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.89
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.90
86 This policy could be broadened to include all development standards, not just parking lot landscaping standards,
within each zoning designation while also promoting equity.
87 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..."
88 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).
S9 Simplified policy language. The focus here is on education.
9° 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.
86
DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
91
Policy 14.5
93 94 95 96
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. 92
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).97
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.98
91 This policy was eliminated and combined with Policy 4.14.4 above.
92 Cleaned up policy language and included references to climate change stressors and resiliency strategies.
93 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.
94 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
9s 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.
96 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).
97 EN-27
98 K_EN-28a.
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DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
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;99
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.101
Reallocate public space dedicated to carbon intensive uses, such as single
occupant vehicle lanes and parking, toward transit, pedestrian, and bike
facilities.102
Develop minimum standards for rights -of -way and new private streets that
require facilities for safe protected bicycle and pedestrian routes to all
destinations.104
Policy 15.5 Ensure all federal and state air quality standards are met and reduce emissions
of air toxics and greenhouse gases.los
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.'°6
Recognize, protect, restore, and enhance Tukwila's natural resources, by
expanding or improving existing parks, wetlands, estuaries, and the urban tree
canopy, and enhance access to passive and active recreation areas, improving air
99 K_EN-28b and d
100 K_EN-4
101 K_EN28C and E
102 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
104 K_EN-28 and EN-28b
1°5 WAC 173-420-080, MPP-En-22
106 K_EN-28a, and d
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DRAFT
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Comprehensive Plan
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.'
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.'°9
RELATED INFORMATION
Natural Environment Background Report
Tukwila Sensitive Areas Map
Tukwila Shoreline Master Program
WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Enhancement Plan
Abandoned Underground Coal Mine Hazards Assessment Report
Tukwila Urban Tree Canopy Assessment
Tukwila Municipal Code, Chapter 18.45
Green Tukwila 20-year Stewardship Plan
107 K_EN-32
108 K_EN5 and EN-25
109 EN-30
89
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SHORELINE
Comprehensive Plan
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
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).
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DRAFT
SHORELINE
Comprehensive Plan
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;
■ 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;
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DRAFT
SHORELINE
Comprehensive Plan
■ 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
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;
93
DRAFT
SHORELINE
Comprehensive Plan
Photo
■ Uses that provide public access and public recreation, whenever feasible and
when ecological impacts can be mitigated;
■ Development compatible with the natural and biological limitations of the
land and water, that does not require extensive alteration of the shoreline or
new shoreline stabilization, except for restoration projects;
■ Enhancement and restoration of ecological functions; and
■ Uses compatible with the adjoining shoreline environments.
The Aquatic Environment applies to areas below the ordinary High Water Mark of a lake,
stream or marine water body.
➢ Shoreline Planning and Management
Tukwila is located in the lower reach of the Green/Duwamish River watershed, which covers
482 square miles and includes over 93 river miles from the Cascade Mountains to Elliott Bay.
The City's portion of the river covers approximately 13 river miles; as a result, the City's
Shoreline Master Program recognizes that —to be successful — protection and enhancement of
shoreline resources is not only a City responsibility but also a regional one. The City is a
member of the Water Resource Inventory Area (WRIA) 9, which covers the Green/Duwamish
River watershed, and has adopted the WRIA 9 Salmon Habitat Plan that identifies specific
actions and restoration projects to improve salmon habitat.
GOAL 2 Expanded value of the river as a community and regional resource, through
regional coordination of shoreline management programs and through
programs that foster river appreciation and awareness, involving partnerships
among businesses, schools, residents and government and community
organizations.
POLICIES
Policy 2.1
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.
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DRAFT
SHORELINE
Comprehensive Plan
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.
➢ 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
Policy 3.3
Policy 3.4
Policy 3.5
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.
When no other feasible alternative exists, allow structures for water dependent
uses to be placed in the water, or structural reinforcement of the riverbank, only
when this provides a significant, long-term public benefit, does not interfere with
navigation or flood management, does not cause a loss of shoreline function, or
is essential to a water -dependent use.
Prohibit the construction of new flood control facilities unless constructed to
incorporate habitat restoration features, and work to remove existing shoreline
armoring — where possible — to restore habitat functions.
Recognize and promote the river's contribution to the economic vitality of
Tukwila, as a valuable amenity for existing and future businesses which depend
on or benefit from a shoreline location.
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DRAFT
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Comprehensive Plan
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 fagade along Christensen Road
and the riverfront, and locates parking facilities to the interior of the lot.
(See also: Shoreline Design Quality policies)
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
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)
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
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■ 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 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.
Policy 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 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
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;
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Policy 5.2
Photo
■ 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
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.
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Policy 6.2 Maintain existing parks along the shoreline and acquire additional park land to
increase access and recreation opportunities.
Policy 6.3
Photo
Incorporate river access requirements to guide the design, location, and
management of shoreline public access in all subdivisions and short plats over
four lots, as well as multi -family, commercial, and industrial development; to
identify types of access appropriate and feasible for various site conditions and
locations; and to establish strategies, funding sources and priorities for
acquisition and enhancement of shoreline public access.
Shoreline rails provide important public access opportunities for Tukwila residents.
Policy 6.4 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.
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 Where shoreline public access is provided, ensure that it is designed to be safe
and convenient and includes access amenities such as benches, drinking
2 This language is not in the state -adopted Shoreline Element; will need to determine if DOE will allow to stay
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Policy 6.9
fountains, public parking areas, handicapped access and appropriate lighting,
consistent with the shoreline access guidelines.
Except for single-family residential development of four or fewer single-family
residential lots, shoreline developments shall maintain views of the water from
the shoreline and from upland areas, through appropriate design of building
height, bulk and modulation, windows, breezeways, and outdoor spaces.
Policy 6.10 Public access improvements should be designed and constructed to:
■ Look and "feel" welcoming to the public.
■ Connect to public areas, street ends, and other pedestrian or public
thoroughfares.
■ Enhance the character of Tukwila.
■ Avoid conflicts with water -dependent uses.
■ Provide for public safety and minimize impacts to private property and
individual privacy and security.
■ Require a low level of operation and maintenance.
■ Ensure that construction (i.e., structures and access pathways) incorporates
environmentally -sensitive design and materials (e.g., non -toxic, natural
materials).
Policy 6.11 Improve pedestrian connections between the river, Green River Trail and the
Urban Center's commercial, office, and residential uses.
Policies for Development in Manufacturing Industrial Center
Policy 6.12 For MIC properties included in the King County Green River Trail Master Plan,
require shoreline development to provide a trail for public access along the river.
Policy 6.13
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
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GOAL 7 Safe corridors and amenities for pedestrians, cyclists, and users of public
transportation, allowing more citizens to access and enjoy the river.
POLICIES
Policy 7.1
Policy 7.2
Policy 7.3
Policy 7.4
Design and locate transportation uses within the shoreline jurisdiction to be
compatible with shoreline vegetation or other habitat features, turn -outs or
parking areas for public access, boat ramps, biofiltration swales to protect water
quality, public art, or interpretive signs.
Ensure that transportation uses within the shoreline jurisdiction and within
those corridors identified as river cross -connections provide safe, convenient
and attractive pedestrian, bicycle, and boater access and facilities for public
transportation.
Minimize transportation impacts on the natural environment (such as noises,
odors, and air or water pollution), and enhance the natural environment
wherever possible through 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
Ensure that shoreline development reflects the river's important role in Tukwila
history, and that long-term public use of the river as a historical resource is
protected by providing for the identification, protection and interpretation of
unique historic and archaeological features.
Policy 8.2 Ensure that public shoreline development reflects the river's natural features
and community traditions.
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Comprehensive Plan
Policy 8.3
Ensure that archaeological artifacts and sites are protected when development
takes place in the shoreline jurisdiction.
Natural Environment and Habitat Use
The Green/Duwamish River has undergone extensive modifications in the past, to reduce
channel migration and limit the extent and duration of valley flooding by constructing levees
and revetments. These modifications to the river system have negatively impacted ecological
functions, including hydrology, water quality, riparian habitat and in -stream habitat. River flows
have been modified by dam construction, stream diversion, and urban development. River
management and levees have reduced the connection between the rivers and their floodplains,
changing the spatial extent of habitat, and increasing the potential for negative water quality
impacts. Disturbances to the channel banks have resulted in areas that are dominated by non-
native invasive species. Wood, in the form of riparian trees and in -channel wood, is generally
lacking throughout the system, which has a negative impact on riparian and aquatic habitats.
The following goals and policies seek to improve the ecological function of the river system.
Photo
Aerial view of North Winds Weir Off -Channel Habitat (photo courtesy of WRIA9)
GOAL 9
POLICIES
Policy 9.1
Policy 9.2
Policy 9.3
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.
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.
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Policy 9.4
Policy 9.5
Support relief from certain Shoreline Master Program requirements for
properties affected by habitat restoration projects that result in the movement
of the ordinary high water mark.
Support establishing the Transition Zone — given its importance for subtidal and
intertidal habitats — as the priority area for habitat restoration projects, to allow
salmonids to gradually adjust to the change between fresh and saltwater
conditions.
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 Toss 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
stabilization with more natural levees, riverbanks, or other shoreline treatments,
to improve flood control, ecological functions and habitat.
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Figure 5-2: Proposed profile for reconfigured levees
Public Health, Safety and Welfare
GOAL 11 Shoreline uses that do not endanger public health, safety and welfare, or the
capacity of the river to provide long-term benefits and resources to the
community.
Policy 11.1
Design, locate and manage shoreline uses, such as capital improvement projects
and private development, in a manner that does not endanger public health,
safety and welfare, and enhances the capacity of the river to provide long-term
benefits and resources to the community.
Shoreline Use Preferences
Goal 12:
Tukwila, in developing and implementing its shoreline master program for shorelines
of statewide significance, including the Green/Duwamish River, shall give preference
to uses in the following order of preference that:
1. Recognize and protect the statewide interest over local interest;
2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline;
3. Result in long term over short term benefit;
4. Protect the resources and ecology of the shorelines;
5. Increase public access to publicly owned areas of the shorelines;
6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the shoreline;
8. Provide for any other element as defined in RCW 90.58.100 deemed appropriate
or necessary.
DRAFT
PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS AND POLICIES
Goals and policies guide the desired future of the parks, recreation, and open space system
over the planning period. Policies reflect public needs, past and current planning efforts and
priorities, as well as strategic planning, design and management principles. The Tukwila
Parks, Recreation and Open Space System Concept Map is the graphic representation of
these goals and policies. (Figure 2)
Goal 1:
POLICIES
Policy 1.1
Policy 1.2
Policy 1.3
Policy 1.4
Policy 1.5
Policy 1.6
Policy 1.7
Safe, Convenient and Connected System - Parks, recreation
opportunities, and open spaces are close to home and work and
are interconnected by safe streets, off-street trails, and public
transportation.
Create a system of close -to -home recreation opportunities, aiming for a %-mile
to %-mile travel distance between most residential uses and parks and
recreation areas. Prioritize historically underserved communities for open
space improvements and investments.13
Create a system of close -to -work recreation opportunities, aiming for a %-mile
to %-mile travel distance between most employment places and parks and
recreation areas.
Link parks to neighborhood gathering spots and other destinations in the
community and region such as schools, neighboring jurisdictions, regional
parks and natural areas, and major employment centers.
Improve the pedestrian and bicycle environment by creating safe and efficient
connections across busy streets, railways, and the Green/Duwamish River.
Increase physical and scenic connectivity with the Green/Duwamish River.
Integrate linkages to recreation areas and open spaces when planning and
designing the transportation system.
Align parks and recreation programs and services with public transit service
and advertise how to attend by transit.l4
13 Added to address PSRC Policy En-15: Provide parks, trails, and open space within walking distance of urban
residents: Prioritize historically underserved communities for open space improvements and investments.
14 The added text is as shown in the PROs Plan (Policy had been updated from the previous Comp Plan Policy)
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Policy 1.8 Continue to provide a safely -designed and maintained trail system. 1s
Policy 1.9 Distribute public recreational facilities throughout the City so that they are
easily accessible to residents, visitors, and those who come to Tukwila to work.
Policy 1.10 Create a trail system that links significant community focal points and connects
the trail network together at strategic points.'6
Policy 1.11 Connect concentrations of commercial and retail activity with the trail
network.
Policy 1.12 Maximize potential and capacity of existing parks and recreation resources to
offset existing and future demand.
Policy 1.13 Identify and create opportunities to develop parks, civic places (including
schools) and public spaces, especially in or adjacent to centers.17
Goal 2:
POLICIES
Policy 2.1
18
A Network of Green Spaces- Recreational amenities, historical
sites, rivers, wetlands, creeks, and other natural resources that
are connected to each other and neighboring networks of lands.
This network defines Tukwila as Northwest city and includes
visually significant bands of vegetation that provide protection for
wildlife habitat, and that provide a contrast to the built
environment.
Recognize that the City's open space network will be made up of public and
private lands that provide, or have the potential to provide, many different
functions.
Policy 2.2 Retain and expand the open space network through acquisition, donation,
easements, partnerships and regulation.
15 The added text is as shown in the PROS Plan (Policy had been updated from the previous Comp Plan Policy)
16 The added text is as shown in the PROS Plan (Policy had been updated from the previous Comp Plan Policy)
17 New Policy - added portion of PSRC Policy D-11: Identify and create opportunities to develop parks, civic places
(including schools) and public spaces, especially in or adjacent to centers.
18 Policy in removed from PROS Plan at last update. Being removed here to keep the two documents consistent.
DRAFT
PARKS, RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE
Comprehensive Plan
Policy 2.3
Policy 2.4
Policy 2.5
Coordinate with other regional and local plans to complement and enhance
the Tukwila open space network.
Integrate natural features, such as daylighting streams, and adding trees,
shrubs, and other plants into the built environment, including residential,
commercial, and industrial areas.
Increase the public's awareness and stewardship of the City's open space
resources and benefits, including examples such as organizing volunteer
events, developing and distributing information.19
Policy 2.6 Monitor and maintain natural areas to control invasive species and other
impacts.20
Policy 2.7 Co -locate public infrastructure, environmental and recreational projects when
practicable.21
Goal 6.3: A Sense of Community - Tukwila's parks and recreation
opportunities build community cohesion by providing places and
programs for social interaction and gatherings of all sizes, with
designs that strengthen community identity.
POLICIES22
23
Policy 3.1 Design parks and recreation facilities that celebrate unique features of Tukwila
and that contribute to quality of life and neighborhood needs.
Policy 3.2 Hold community events that encourage interaction between neighbors and
celebrate the diversity of Tukwila.
Policy 3.3
Policy 3.4
Policy 3.5
Interpret local culture, history, and environment throughout the system.
Integrate art throughout the City, guided by the Tukwila Municipal Arts Plan..
Leverage the opportunities presented by multiple redevelopment projects to expand
Tukwila's park and trails system into Tukwila South and Southcenter, serving the
needs of new residents, as well as visitors and workers of this evolving area.
19 Text rearranged to reflect policy in 2020 Plan.
20 Policies 6-2.6 and 6-2.7 are new to the PROS Plan and have been added here to the Comp Plan PROS Element.
21 Policy from PROS plan added here.
22 The policies are as shone in the magazine.
23 Deleted policy found in Comp Plan - policy was not included in PROS plan.
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Goal 6.4:
POLICIES
Policy 4.1
Policy 4.2
Policy 4.3
Opportunities for All- Tukwila's parks, recreation opportunities,
and public services offer something for all ages, abilities, and
cultures, in settings locations and times that are convenient to as
many as possible.
Offer flexible recreation programming that is constantly improving and
responding to current trends and community desires.
Provide programs, activities and special events that embrace Tukwila's many
cultures, customs and interests.
Design accessible parks, facilities, and programs for all ages and abilities.
Policy 4.4 Increase the capacity at existing parks and recreation facilities to maximize use
and expand public access.
Policy 4.5 Provide indoor and outdoor spaces designed for increased access and
flexibility of use.
Policy 4.6 Consider future growth needs and planned density when providing parks and
recreation opportunities to meet community needs.
Policy 4.7 Expand program options through enhanced partnerships with businesses and
organizations, and through volunteerism.
Policy 4.8 24Develop a city-wide special event permitting process to promote and
encourage tourism, art, culture and sports events.
Policy 4.9 Address mobility and accessibility barriers to parks, facilities, and programs
through the development and implementation of a transition plan for parks
and recreation, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Policy 4.10
Ensure the provision of a variety of inclusive programs, activities, and events to
better serve persons with physical and/or developmental disabilities and adapt
offerings to encourage social inclusion and belonging.
24 New policy from Parks staff
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Policy 4.11
Policy 4.12
Goal 6.5:
POLICIES
Policy 5.125
Policy 5.2
Policy 5.3
Policy 5.4
Policy 5.5
Provide, promote and encourage reasonable accommodations- changes,
exceptions, modifications or adjustments to rules, policies, practices, programs
or services so that a person with a disability has an equal opportunity to use
and enjoy parks and recreation facilities, parks and programs.
Provide, promote, and encourage meaningful language access so that persons
with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) can realize improved access to
department programs, services, and information, consistent with Title VI of the
Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Safe, Inviting, and Affordable- Parks and facilities are safe, well
maintained and clean, and programs and services that are
welcoming and accessible for all people.
Design parks and public spaces using accepted public safety standards such as
Crime Prevention through Environmental Design Principles (CPTED) or
Defensible Space.
Reflect the highest standard of design quality in public developments to
enhance neighborhood quality and set a high design standard for private
development.
Develop site -specific master plans or site designs that guide all major park
improvements and that achieve cohesive design and efficient phasing of
projects.
Involve the community, including expected users and neighborhood residents,
in appropriate aspects of capital project and program planning and
implementation.
Involve community partners and volunteers in the construction and
maintenance of parks to increase the sense of public ownership and reduce
City costs.
Policy 5.6 Increase access to affordable, free, or reduced -cost programs and services.
Policy 5.7 Expand awareness of the full range of program offerings and recreation
options made available by the City and others.
25 Formatting of this document
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Comprehensive Plan
Policy 5.8
Goal 6.6:
POLICIES
Policy 6.1
Maintain parks and public spaces so that they are safe, clean, and welcoming.
Healthy People and Places - Parks and recreation opportunities
that promote healthy, active lifestyles are designed and managed
to engage and enhance the natural environment and the local
economy.
Provide services for all ages to encourage community members to try new
activities and build a habit of healthy living.
Policy 6.2 Promote healthy food choices and active living programs as a central focus for
community education.
Policy 6.3 Strive to create projects and programs that provide social, economic, and
environmental benefit to the community.26
Policy 6.4 Leverage the park, recreation, and open space system to meet the needs of
the residents while considering economic development and needs of visitors,
business, and workers.
Policy 6.5
Policy 6.6
Policy 6.7
Policy 6.8
Provide public education resources and volunteer opportunities to promote
understanding and appreciation of Tukwila's natural environment and Green/
Duwamish River ecosystem, while building an environmental stewardship ethic
in the community.
Encourage and support the use of public lands for urban agriculture activities
through existing and new programming or partnerships.27
Consider long-term management, operations. and maintenance needs when
implementing new projects and programs.
Employ best practices in managing facilities, parks, and open space areas, and
provide continuing education for City staff on these practices.
26 Revised Plan to be consistent with 2020 plan
27 Combined 6.6.6 and 6.6.7 (as in PROS Plan)
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RELATED INFORMATION
• Parks, Recreation and Open Space Final Draft (March 2020)
• Parks, Recreation and Open Space, Technical Supplement, September 2019
• Older Adults Recreational Services Needs Assessment (March 2019)
• Public Arts & Culture Master Plan (January 2018)
• Green Tukwila 20-Year Stewardship Plan (2017)
• Tukwila Pond Park Master Plan (January 2022)
111
112
��kwila transportation Element
TUKWILA TRANSPORTAT
DRAFT 2024 Transportation Policies
Equity: Eliminate systemic barriers to ensure fair access
to healthy, affordable, reliable transportation options,
livable places, and jobs.
1.2.
1.3.
1.4.
1.5.
1.6.
1.7.
1.8.
Provide a balanced transportation system that delivers circulation for all users throughout the
city, including people walking, bicycling, persons who use a wheelchair or other ambulation
devices, seniors, youth, people with low incomes, and residents of all ages and abilities.'
Plan and implement the transportation system utilizing urban street design principles in
recognition of the link between urban design, safety, economic development, community
health, and transportation system design in the planning and implementation of
transportation projects.2
Consider the economic development and community benefit implications in the planning and
design of transportation projects.3
Work with BNSF to mitigate impacts associated with rail and intermodal yard operations
within Tukwila's residential neighborhoods.4
Encourage transit providers, paratransit operators, and private purveyors to provide mobility
for people of all ages, abilities, and income levels in the City of Tukwila and the surrounding
community.'
Regularly update the City of Tukwila's ADA Transition Plan and invest in the identified
infrastructure to ensure that transportation systems serve people of all ages and abilities.6
Support efficient transit capacity to reduce single -occupancy vehicle trips to, from, within, and
through Tukwila.'
Prioritize investments that address systemic barriers to accessing livable places and jobs.8
1 New policy to address PSRC guidelines. Reordered policies for emphasis after February 22 Planning Commission.
No change to text since meeting.
2 New policy to address PSRC guidelines. Reordered policies for emphasis after February 22 Planning Commission.
No change to text since meeting.
3 New policy to address PSRC guidelines. Policy revised after February 22 Planning Commission meeting to address
staff comments.
13.8.3, supports PSRC guidelines. Reordered policies for emphasis after February 22 Planning Commission. No
change to text since meeting.
' New policy to address PSRC guidelines.
6 New policy to address DOC guidelines.
New policy to address KCM guidelines.
$ Policy address after February 22 Planning Commission meeting to address staff comments.
113
fa..us..ss..us \
`akwilakransportation Element
TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
Safety: Provide a safe transportation system and
placemaking to emphasize Tukwila as a welcoming
place, particularly for historically marginalized and
vulnerable populations.
2.1 Balance travel efficiency, safety, and quality -of -life by exploring context -sensitive roadway
design strategies (including appropriate vehicle lane widths, traffic calming measures,
landscaping, and buffers separating vehicle traffic from other modes of travel).9
2.2 Invest in transportation projects and programs that address safety issues systematically
impacting historically marginalized and vulnerable populations.10
2.3 Design streets to safely accommodate a range of motorized and non -motorized travel modes
such that it is comfortable and safe to access destinations without a vehicle."
2.4 Design intersections and sidewalks to promote pedestrian safety and foster walking and
rolling (including using a wheelchair or mobility device, scooter, and stroller) as a viable mode
of transportations.12
2.5 Meet or exceed standards for pedestrian facilities, such as sidewalks and crosswalks to
encourage residents and visitors to walk or roll for transportation, recreation, and improved
health.13
2.6 Prioritize preserving and maintaining existing transportation facilities to avoid costly
replacements and to meet public safety objectives in a cost-effective manner.14
2.7 Work with school officials and school community members to promote Safe Routes to School
projects and programs and require safe routes to school improvements — such as sidewalks
and crosswalks — as new development occurs along designated school walk routes.15
2.8 Partner with transit agencies to improve safety and cleanliness in and around transit stops
and stations to encourage ridership.16
2.9 Promote roadway designs that reduce speeding on local streets.17
2.10 Seek to minimize conflicts between non -motorized modes and freight vehicles.18
9 13.1.3. Revised to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
1° Policy revised after February 22 Planning Commission meeting to address staff comments.
11 Revised 13.2.9 to address community feedback, supports PSRC guidelines. Revised to address feedback from
February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
12 13.2.11, supports PSRC guidelines. Revised for inclusivity.
13 13.6.11, supports PSRC guidelines. Revised for clarity and inclusivity.
14 13.9.6
1s 13.6.10. Revised for clarity.
16 New policy to address community feedback. Revised to address feedback from February 22 Planning
Commission meeting.
17 New policy to address community feedback.
18 New policy to address community feedback. Policy revised after February 22 Planning Commission meeting to
address staff comments.
114
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TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
2.11 Provide well -maintained facilities. Coordinate with the Washington State Department of
Transportation to keep state facilities in Tukwila free of debris.19
PLACEHOLDER:
Additional safety policies to follow in coordination with development of
Tukwila's Local Road Safety Plan / Comprehensive Safety Action Plan.
19 Policy added to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
115
voila transportation Element
TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
Connectivity: Maintain, expand, and enhance Tukwila's
multimodal network, particularly walk, bike, roll, and
transit, to increase mobility options where needs are
greatest.
3.1. Focus on transportation efficiency by maximizing the movement of people with streets that
are designed to be safe for all transportation modes, accommodating existing land uses while
designing for the future.20
3.2. Include trucking design parameters in principal and minor arterial improvements as well as in
commercial areas.21
3.3. Allow truck traffic on all principal and minor arterials, as well as on commercial area local
access streets. Consider using load limit restrictions and geofencing on residential collector
arterials and residential local access streets.22
3.4. Support goods mobility by all modes, recognizing that Tukwila is part of a regional freight
distribution hub and a major international trade gateway.23
3.5. Encourage transit -oriented uses, development patterns and pedestrian amenities in the
vicinity of high -capacity transit stations.24
3.6. Continue to coordinate with surrounding jurisdictions and with regional and State agencies to
finance and develop a multi -modal transportation system that enhances regional mobility
and reinforces the countywide vision for managing growth.25
3.7. Recommend and pursue a regional multi -modal center in conjunction with the Tukwila
Commuter Rail/Amtrak Station and secondary pedestrian/bicycle/transit hubs elsewhere in
the City.26
3.8. Require all new streets, street improvements, property developments and property
improvements to provide sidewalks and other non -motorized infrastructure consistent with
adopted standards and subarea plans. Property developments and improvements in
commercial areas shall provide direct pedestrian access from sidewalks to buildings, as well as
to, from and between parking areas.27
3.9. Evaluate street improvement projects for the inclusion of features that support the Complete
Streets policy in order to encourage walking, bicycling and transit use.28
20 13.1.2, supports PSRC guidelines.
21 13.7.1, supports PSRC guidelines.
22 13.7.2, supports PSRC guidelines. Revised to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
23 13.8.2, supports PSRC guidelines.
24 13.5.6, supports PSRC and KCM guidelines.
25 13.1.6, supports PSRC and KCM guidelines.
26 13.4.3, supports PSRC guidelines.
27 13.2.5, supports PSRC guidelines.
28 13.2.10, supports PSRC guidelines.
(...,,..,,..,,\
oils bansportatIon Eleme
TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
3.10. Support goods mobility by all modes, recognizing that Tukwila is part of a regional freight
distribution hub and a major international trade gateway.29
3.11. Encourage and support public transportation services.
3.12. The development and extension of any light rail or commuter rail system shall meet the
following objectives:
• Any commuter or light rail system serving Tukwila, Seattle, South King County and/or
Sea-Tac Airport should be located in a manner which promotes the coordinated short
term and long-term use of alternative transportation systems, such as carpools, transit,
biking and walking.
• Such systems shall be located so as to allow for future extensions to commuter and/ or
light rail service to East King County and Southeast King County, and shall be coordinated
with other transit service.
• Such systems shall be located in a manner that provides multi -modal connections to
Tukwila's urban center, Manufacturing and Industrial Center, and transit centers, so as to
encourage development in the manner contemplated by this Plan and the Countywide
Planning Policies. 39
3.13. Collaborate with transit providers to expand transit connectivity to Tukwila South and other
developing areas within Tukwila.31
3.14. Support, encourage and implement programs and improvements that promote transit, foot
and bicycle access to community amenities, stores, and jobs.32
3.15. Incorporate proportionately greater neighborhood -enhancing elements in collector, minor
arterial, and principle arterial design. These elements include collector lanes, wider sidewalks,
separated sidewalks, and curbline trees.33
3.16. Continue to provide assistance to King County Metro, Sound Transit, Washington State
Department of Transportation, King County and other agencies in increasing people -carrying
capacity of vehicles and reducing vehicular trips.34
3.17. Coordinate with adjacent agencies on the development of a network of regional non -
motorized transportation improvements in, through and to Tukwila such as connected
network of bicycle facilities and trails.35
3.18. Work with King County Metro and Sound Transit to provide amenities for transit riders,
encourage transit use, and enhance multi -modal connections to transit.36
3.19. Construct neighborhood links by providing additional sidewalks and trails as opportunities
and development occur.37
29 13.8.2, supports PSRC guidelines.
30 13.4.8, supports KCM guidelines.
31 Added to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
32 13.1.9, supports KCM guidelines.
33 13.2.6
34 13.4.5, supports KCM guidelines.
36 Revised 13.6.5 for clarity, supports KCM guidelines.
36 13.5.3, supports DOC guidelines.
37 13.6.6, supports PSRC guidelines.
117
��kwila transportation Element
TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
3.20. Pursue converting railroad and other easements to pedestrian and bicycle trails.38
3.21. Require secure bicycle storage (i.e., racks, lockers, cages, etc.) in appropriate locations near
community destinations.39
3.22. Provide way -finding along roads, sidewalks and trails to direct non -motorized travelers to
trails and destinations.4°
3.23. Plan and budget for non -motorized transportation projects within the Tukwila Capital
Improvement Program.41
3.24. Maintain existing unimproved rights -of -way if there is a potential future opportunity to create
a non -motorized connection through stairs or other trail improvements.42
3.25. Improve transit, walking, and biking connections to the Tukwila Community Center.43
38 13.6.7, supports PSRC guidelines.
39 13.6.8, supports PSRC guidelines. Policy revised after February 22 Planning Commission meeting to address staff
comments.
40 13.6.9, supports PSRC guidelines.
41 13.6.12
42 13.6.14
43 Added to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
118
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oils bansportation Eleme
TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
Adaptability: Anticipate and plan for the community's
evolving needs, new technologies, and opportunities for
mobility.
4.1. Protect the transportation system (e.g. roadway, rail, transit, air and marine) against major
disruptions by developing maintenance, prevention and recovery strategies and by coordinating
disaster response plans."
4.2. Maintain a partnership with King County Metro in operation and maintenance of the Tukwila
Transit Center.45
4.3. Continue to encourage the use of rideshare, transit, bicycle, and evolving technological
transportation improvements.46
4.4. Balance modal priorities on residential streets through design and maintenance that supports
needs for emergency access, while still implementing strategies to slow traffic.47
4.5. Adopt and implement multimodal LOS standards to guide City improvement and development
approval decisions.48
4.6. Prioritize resilient and sustainable transportation options to increase system capacity(i.e., transit
use, carpooling/rideshare, pedestrian and bicycle facilities). After considering these priority
improvements, consider other street capacity improvements (i.e., signal improvements, street
widening) as a last resort.49
4.7. Use the Transportation Background Report — in conjunction with this Plan's land use goals — to
prioritize construction of new sidewalks, bike lanes and trails.5°
4.8. Advocate for Tukwila representation on the boards of King County Metro and Sound Transit in
order to influence service and policies that are effective for Tukwila.51
4.9. Advocate through verbal and written testimony to King County Metro and Sound Transit to
achieve and maintain a minimum LOS C (defined by headway, vehicles per hour and hours of
service), and work within Tukwila's Transit Priority Corridor Classification System.52
4.10.Promote emerging technology and innovative approaches to local deliveries, including cargo
bikes, delivery drones, sidewalk autonomous delivery robots (SADRs), and microhubs.53
44 13.1.7, supports PSRC guidelines.
45 13.4.6, supports both PSRC and KCM guidelines.
46 13.5.5, supports PSRC guidelines.
47 Revised 13.2.7 to better address community
from February 22 Planning Commission meetin
48 Revised 13.3.2, supports DOC guidelines.
49 Revised 13.3.6 to better address community
Planning Commission meeting to address staff
so Revised 13.3.11 for clarity, supports PSRC gu
51 13.3.12
52 13.3.13
53 Added policy to reflect best practices for emerging technology and mobility.
priorities, supports PSRC guidelines. Revised to address feedback
g•
priorities, supports DOC guidelines. Policy revised after February 22
comments.
idelines.
119
��kwila transportation Element
TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
4.11.Address spillover parking (onto private property, public property, or public streets) near transit
facilities and other community destinations, balancing competing land use needs and
opportunities.54
s4 Added to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
120
ZakwilaItansportation Element
TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
Climate Justice: Protect the well-being of historically
marginalized populations and justly redistribute
transportation's burden on community health and the
natural environment.
5.1. Collaborate with King County, the Port of Seattle, BNSF and UPRR to ensure that King County
International Airport, SeaTac International Airport, and railway operations and development:
• Enhance Tukwila goals and policies.
• Incorporate Tukwila land use plans and regulations.
• Minimize adverse impacts to Tukwila residents.
• Are not encroached upon by incompatible land uses.55
5.2. Provide Commute Trip Reduction Program (CTR) services to Tukwila employers to reduce
drive -alone trips, vehicle miles traveled, traffic congestion, and greenhouse gas emissions.56
5.3. The City of Tukwila will provide education and consider investing in transit benefits for City
employees to set an example to other employers by a commitment to reducing drive -alone
trips, vehicle miles traveled, and greenhouse gas emissions.57
5.4. Design and operate transportation facilities in a manner that is compatible with and
integrated into the natural and built environments in which they are located. Incorporate
features such as natural drainage, native plantings and local design themes that facilitate
integration and compatibility.58
5.5. Support car -share, bike -share and other alternatives to individual automobile ownership, to
enhance sustainability.59
5.6. Support, encourage and implement transportation programs and improvements that
promote water quality and regional air quality.60
5.7. Support the urban tree canopy to provide shade, improve air quality, and enhance
placemaking by including vegetation wherever feasible.61
5.8. Support electric vehicle charging stations and other alternative fuel sources, as available.
Establish mode -split goals for all significant employment centers which will vary according to
development densities, access to transportation service, and levels of congestion.62
ss 13.8.1, supports PSRC guidelines. Revised to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
56 13.5.1, supports PSRC guidelines.
57 Revised 13.5.2 to reflect current conditions, supports PSRC guidelines. Policy revised after February 22 Planning
Commission meeting to address staff comments.
S8 13.1.5, supports PSRC guidelines.
S9 13.1.10, supports PSRC guidelines.
60 13.1.5, supports PSRC guidelines.
61 Added to address feedback from February 22 Planning Commission meeting.
62 13.5.4, supports DOC guidelines.
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TUKWILA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT
5.9. Support transportation system improvements and programs that encourage transit use, high -
occupancy vehicle trips, and non -motorized transportation to reduce single -occupancy
vehicle trips, vehicle miles traveled, traffic congestion, and greenhouse gas emissions.63
63 New policy to address KCM guidelines.
122
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS AND POLICIES
GOAL U-1
Utility services and facilities that meet the community's current and
future needs in a safe, reliable, efficient, economic, and environmentally
responsible manner.
➢ POLICIES FOR CITY -MANAGED UTILITIES
Service Extensions
Policy U-1.1
Ensure that the City of Tukwila utility functional plans and operations meet
applicable federal, State, regional and county requirements and regulations to
address health and safety requirements, address deficiencies, and assure quality
of service.
Policy U-1.2 Require the use of Tukwila's applicable service standards to design and construct
all utility service extensions.
Policy U-1.3 Base the extension and sizing of utility system components on applicable design
standards and Comprehensive Plan development priorities.
Policy U-1.4 Ensure that new development, redevelopment, and other actions within the City
of Tukwila's jurisdiction do not cause significant adverse upstream or
downstream impacts on flooding, erosion, and natural resources within and
outside of Tukwila's jurisdiction.'
Coordination of Service Providers
Policy U-1.5 Coordinate with service providers for reliable and cost-effective utility services to
the public.
Policy U-1.6 Coordinate with other jurisdictions and agencies in planning and implementing
utility operations, facility additions and improvements located in or affecting
multiple jurisdictions.
Policy U-1.7 Participate in the regulation of all water, sewer, and surface water utility services
within the City's boundaries.
Policy U-1.8 Allow utility service outside City boundaries only when required by adjustments
to City limits or to provide temporary service due to emergency.
1 Environmental policy
123
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
Policy U-1.9 Establish and maintain franchises and working agreements with electricity, gas,
sewer, and water utilities currently operating within the City limits, to ensure
that the level of service provided is consistent with the City's requirements and
revitalization plans.
Policy U-1.10 Allow special-purpose sewer and water districts to continue to operate and serve
Tukwila residents and businesses, when appropriate.
Concurrency and Implications for Growth
Policy U-1.11 Schedule and phase utility extensions to occur concurrently with expected
growth and development.2
Policy U-1.12 Approve development only if adequate utilities are available when a need is
created for those facilities, or within a reasonable period as required by State
law.
Environmental Sustainability
Policy U-1.13 Provide environmentally sound and sustainable operations with cost-effective
methods in water, sewer and surface water management utilities operations.
Policy U-1.14 Make conservation and efficiency efforts an integral part of Tukwila's utility
operations and management.3
Policy U-1.15 Promote energy efficiency, conservation methods, and sustainable energy
sources in utility operations to support climate change reduction goals.
Policy U-1.16 Consider Tukwila's Urban Forest together with other green stormwater
infrastructure systems — during utility planning, design, installation and/or
maintenance — to ensure that trees and water quality are protected.
Policy U-1.17 Require water reuse and reclamation, where feasible, especially for high -volume
non- potable water users such as parks, schools, and golf courses.'
Neighborhood and Sub -Area Vitality
Policy U-1.18 Give priority to the City's regional growth and manufacturing/industrial centers,
while balancing the needs of residential neighborhoods for City -planned utility
improvements and extensions.
2 Supporting a PSRC-RGC requirements (Public Services)
3 Partial for King County Countywide Planning Policy K_PF-10
4 King County Countywide Planning Policy, PF-11
124
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
Policy U-1.19 Design, construct, and maintain facilities to minimize impacts on adjacent
neighborhoods and businesses.
Water Utility
Policy U-1.20 Actively participate in determining a regional solution to Tukwila's water supply
and addressing the potential impacts of climate change and fisheries protection
on regional water resources.5
Policy U-1.21 Provide safe, reliably -maintained and sustainable water service for domestic,
commercial, industrial, fire flow and water emergency uses, to meet present and
future needs.'
Equity
Policy U-1.22 Promote affordable and equitable access of public services, including drinking water and
telecommunication infrastructure, to provide access to all communities, especially
underserved communities'
Sewer Utility
Policy U-1.23 Serve all existing and potential residences and businesses with a sewer utility.
Policy U-1.24 Replace failing septic systems within the city with sanitary sewers or alternative
technology that is comparable or better.8
Surface Water Utility
Policy U-1.25 Serve all of Tukwila's residences and businesses with a surface water utility.
Policy U-1.26 Provide capital, maintenance, education, and enforcement programs as a
function of the surface water utility.
Policy U-1.27 Require low impact development techniques including green stormwater
infrastructure for both development and redevelopment projects.
Policy U-1.28 Apply an adopted surface water design manual and all appendices as the
minimum requirement for all development projects and other actions that could
cause or worsen flooding, erosion, water quality and habitat problems, for both
upstream and downstream development.
King County Countywide Planning Policy K_PF-5
6 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_PF-6
' Vision 2050, MPP-PS-2, PS-16, PS-22
$ MPP-PS-11
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
Policy U-1.29 Coordinate water quality improvement programs with adjoining jurisdictions
whose surface waters flow into or through Tukwila.
Policy U-1.30 Use the Surface Water Fund to retrofit surface water systems to improve water
quality, support forest conservation and restoration, restore aquatic and riparian
habitatand enhance fish passage, by establishing:
■ A water quality retrofit program that prioritizes projects based on need,
benefit and other criteria, and takes into account Washington Department
of Ecology's expanded listing of impaired water bodies; and
■ A Habitat restoration programs that restore aquatic and riparian habitats and
remove fish barriers. Project priorities are based on on habitat needs,
benefits and other criteria and meet regulatory requirements.
■ An urban canopy preservation program that emphasizes supports Citywide
canopy preservation policies and strategies.
Policy U-1.31 Encourage the retention and planting of trees for their beneficial effects on
surface water runoff, including flow attenuation, water quality enhancements and
temperature reduction including through the use of Green Stormwater
Infrastructure, such as rain gardens.
UTILITIES NOT OPERATED BY THE CITY
Aside from water, sewer and surface water management, most utilities serving the residents of
Tukwila are not owned or operated by the City. While the City can provide input on planning
efforts for these utilities, it does not directly control service rates or the exact location of new
infrastructure.
Private utilities are required to obtain any City permits necessary to operate or install
infrastructure within the City and must comply with all applicable City and State regulations.
Image Source: Puget Sound Energy
➢ POLICIES FOR NON -CITY -OWNED UTILITIES
Non -City -owned utilities develop strategic and operational plans with varying degrees of input
and involvement from the City. They set capacity and service levels on an area -wide basis, and
rely on the local government's involvement to ensure that capacity is sufficient.
As a condition of applying for a permit, new development that uses non -City owned water and
sewer utilities is required to obtain a letter of service availability. This letter establishes that
utility service meeting City standards is either available or will be available prior to occupancy.
126
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
The electric power and natural gas utilities project adequate capacity during the 20-year
planning period, assuming responsible use of these resources. Electric utility capacity is set
regionally, with Tukwila's needs determined and provided for as part of an area -wide system.
Similarly, natural gas is provided via a regional delivery system.
With new technologies, telecommunications utilities project virtually limitless capacity within
the planning horizon.
Through long-term Interlocal Agreements (ILAs), the solid waste system will continue to be
upgraded to meet Tukwila's current and future needs. The Cedar Hills Landfill expects to reach
full capacity in 2025. The current ILA that expires in 2040 addresses the process that cities and
King County will follow to develop disposal options prior to Cedar Hills Landfill reaching its full
capacity. Tukwila and other suburban cities participate in planning and contribute to reaching
regional goals via their recycling and waste reduction strategies and practices.
General Policies
Policy U-1.32 Actively coordinate project implementation with individual utilities, based on
Tukwila's Comprehensive Plan and development regulations.
Policy U-1.33 Require new development that uses non -City -owned water and sewer utilities to
obtain a letter of service availability as a condition of receiving a Tukwila permit.
Policy U-1.34 Require utilities operating in the right-of-way to obtain a franchise that includes
service levels and requirements meeting Comprehensive Plan forecasts and
other applicable federal, State, and local regulations.
Policy U-1.35 Encourage utilities to consolidate facilities, use existing transportation corridors,
and minimize visual impacts of facilities, where technically feasible.
Policy U-1.36 Encourage communication between the City of Tukwila, the Washington Utilities
and Transportation Commission, and the utilities regarding cost distribution and
rate -setting for existing and proposed facilities and services.
Policy U-1.37 All new electrical and communication facilities shall be constructed
underground, unless specifically exempted by the Tukwila Municipal Code or
determined by the City Council to be financially impractical.
Policy U-1.38 If a utility relocation is required by a public works project — such as a street
widening project, utility repairs or upgrades — or any major replacement of aerial
facilities, the relocated/replaced facilities shall be underground, unless the City
determines that doing so is not in the best interest of the public.
127
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
Policy U-1.39 Recognize and support agreements with water purveyors to promote effective
conveyance of water supplies and secure adequate supplies for emergencies.9
Telecommunications
Policy U-1.40 Provide telecommunication infrastructure to serve growth and development in a
manner consistent with Tukwila's vision, as outlined in the Comprehensive Plan.
Policy U-1.41 Encourage the equitable provision of telecommunication infrastructure and
affordable, convenient, and reliable broadband internet access to businesses,
and households of all income levels, with a focus on underserved areas.'
Solid Waste Management
Policy U-1.42 Reduce the solid waste stream and encourage reuse and recycling'
Policy U-1.43 Maintain a comprehensive solid waste management program that includes
environmental responsibility and sustainability, competitive rates, and customer
service excellence for Tukwila's residential, multifamily, and commercial
customers.
Policy U-1.44 As current franchise agreements expire in areas annexed to the City, provide
waste management services that are consistent with that provided to other
areas of the City.12
Policy U-1.45 Encourage and actively participate in a uniform regional approach to solid waste
management.
Electric and Gas Utility
Policy U-1.46 Reduce the rate of energy consumption, and use efficiency and conservation as a
means to lower energy costs and mitigate environmental impacts associated
with traditional energy supplies.13
Policy U-1.47 Promote use of renewable and alternative energy resources to help meet long-
term energy needs, reduce environmental impacts associated with traditional
energy supplies, and increase community sustainability.14
9 King County Countywide Planning Policies, K_PF-9 - policy has been pared back from scope of original
10 King County Countywide Planning Policies, PF-17
11 King County Countywide Planning Policies, K_PF-14
12 This is a clarification of the circumstances — it relates to waste disposal in Tukwila South.
13 King County Countywide Planning Policies, K_PF-15
14 King County Countywide Planning Policies, K_PF-16
128
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
Policy U-1.48 Ensure that development regulations are consistent with and do not otherwise
impair fulfilling public service and other obligations imposed by federal and State
law.
Policy U-1.49 Actively support the greenhouse gas reduction policies pertaining to utilities
described in the Natural Environment Element of this Comprehensive Plan
(These policies will be listed as noted below)15
15 In the interests of reducing repetitiveness in the Plan, policies pertaining to the reduction of greenhouse gases
have been moved to the Natural Environment element.
129
DRAFT
UTILITIES
Comprehensive Plan
RELATED INFORMATION
Utilities Background Report
Tukwila Water Plan
Tukwila Sewer Plan
Tukwila Surface Water Plan
Tukwila Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Valley View Sewer District
City of Renton Utilities
City of Seattle (Water, Sewer)
Highline Water District
King County Water District #125
King County Water District #20
Puget Sound Energy (Electric, Natural Gas)
Seattle City Light
Waste Management, Inc. (Solid Waste, Recycling)
DRAFT
Capital Facilities
Comprehensive Plan
GOALS AND POLICIES
These policies are intended to ensure the availability of financing to accomplish the goals
expressed here and in the other elements of the Comprehensive Plan over the next 20 years.
GOAL CF-1 Public facilities and services that reflect desired levels of quality, address
past deficiencies, and anticipate the needs of growth through acceptable
levels of service, prudent use of fiscal resources, and realistic timelines.
General Policies
Policy CF-1.1 The City shall use non -capital and regionally -shared capital options to meet its
public facility needs when there are financial or economies of scale to be gained.
Policy CF-1.2 The City's management of its capital facilities shall follow this order:
1. Regular inspection of systems for evaluation and to ensure conformity with
current safety standards;
2. Prioritizing projects when making improvements, if the public health and
safety is at risk;
3. Preventive maintenance and cost-effective replacement of aging elements;
and
4. Planning for the orderly extension and upgrading of capital systems to
accommodate future growth
Policy CF-1.3 Projects listed to be initiated during the 7-20 year time frame shall be generally
described, estimated, and evaluated using Comprehensive Plan goals. Projects in
the six -year CIP/FPM shall include a progressively more detailed description,
project budget, anticipated funding sources, and projected expenses).12
Policy CF-1.4 The City shall ensure that transportation capital facilities are provided within a
maximum of six years of the occurrence of impacts that will degrade adopted
level of services standards.
13
Policy CF-1.5 Dedicated funding for building needs shall be included in the CIP/FPM.
Policy CF-1.6 Continue to fund the correction of residential neighborhood infrastructure
deficiencies, including transportation, surface water, sewer and water, through
interfund loans or general fund transfers, in order to address emergency and
public health and safety issues.
Zz This phrase added for clarification 12-5-23
Zs Policy deleted: Priorities are addressed in the section Prioritizing Facility Construction later in the element.
131
DRAFT
Capital Facilities
Comprehensive Plan
Policy CF-1.7 No capital improvement projects located outside the city limits shall be approved
without specific City Council approval.
Paying For Facilities
Policy CF-1.8 If the City determines that the public's health, safety, and welfare will be
benefited, or if funding is available through external sources such as
development or grant funds, the City may allocate funding for preliminary
engineering and design of commercial and residential street projects.14
Policy CF-1.9 Late -comer agreements shall be considered an acceptable means of funding
capital projects, improvements, and replacements, in whole or in part when
requested by a developer.
Policy CF-1.10 The City shall initiate property negotiations in all projects with a request for
donation of the property needed for rights -of -way and easements.
Policy CF-1.11 Arterial street improvements listed in the six -year CIP/FPM may be funded
through an LID or financing external to the City. The City may use operating
revenues, grants, or bonds, based on health and safety needs or public benefit.
Policy CF-1.12 The City may consider paying for local improvement district formation costs in
addition to the preliminary and construction engineering costs, in order to
provide a more -timely option for residential street improvements.
Policy CF-1.13 The City shall, whenever practical and advantageous, apply for grants, loans, or
other external financing sources. Grant applications for capital facilities shall be
made:
• Only for projects listed in the CIP/FPM, and
• After City Council approval.15
16
Policy CF-1.14 Transportation, fire, and parks impact fees shall be collected so that "growth
may pay for growth" and growth -caused improvements may be constructed.
Policy CF-1.15 Impact fees shall be adjusted periodically based upon an appropriate capital cost
index and/or other relevant data, to ensure that the fees reflect the cost of
planned system improvements related to growth and shall be subject to City
Council approval.
is Reflects current practice.
is These protocols shall be internal Council decisions.
Ze The Council should have flexibility to change their grant procedures without a Comp Plan change.
132
DRAFT
Capital Facilities
Comprehensive Plan
Policy CF-1.16 The City shall consider issuance of bonds for facilities, if repayment can be made
from revenue allocations and if it is more cost-effective.
Policy CF-1.17 Non -transportation and non -utility capital projects and improvements (i.e.,
parks, trails, City offices) shall be funded by general revenues, impact fees,
grants, or bonds as determined in the biennial CIP/FPM review process.
17
Facility Construction — Prioritizing, Site Selection, and Design 18
Policy CF-1.18 Provide affordable and equitable access to public services to all communities,
especially the historically underserved. Prioritize investments to address
disparities.19
Policy CF-1.19 Capital improvements shall be coordinated, whenever feasible, with related
improvements by other jurisdictions.
Policy CF-1.20 Transportation improvements shall be coordinated with related improvements
such as utility, landscaping, sidewalks, etc.
Policy CF-1.21 Capital facility projects shall be prioritized using Comprehensive Plan and
Strategic Plan goals and policies.
Policy CF-1.22 Prioritize the selection, design, and construction of capital facility projects using
consideration of how these choices reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and
support state, regional, and local GHG reduction goals20
Policy CF-1.23 Prioritize capital facility decisions that require and expand the use of
conservation, alternative energy sources, and energy management technology.21
Policy CF-1.24 Support coordinated planning for public safety services and programs, including
emergency management, in partnership with communities that have
disproportionately carried the burden of harm from social, or political
d isenfra nch isement.22
17 This has been changed by the Council to fund the Public Safety Plan
18 Reflects current practice.
19 King County Countywide Planning Policies, K_PF-2
20 PSRC goals/policies: (MPP-CC-1, CC-3, CC-5, CC-11-12, CC-Action-3)
21 PSRC goals/policies: (MPP-CC-1, CC-3, CC-5, CC-11-12, CC-Action-3)
22 King County Countywide Planning Policy K_PF-26
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DRAFT
Capital Facilities
Comprehensive Plan
Policy CF-1.25 Establish new or expanded sites for public facilities, utilities, and infrastructure in
a manner that ensures disaster resiliency and public service recovery.23
Financial Planning and Plan Maintenance
Policy CF-1.26 Capital planning decisions shall be linked to City-wide goals, by tracking actual
growth patterns and evaluating growth targets and level -of -service standards.
Policy CF-1.27 The CIP/FPM shall be updated biennially and include reviews of forecasts and
actual growth, revenue, and cost totals.
Policy CF-1.28 Capital Facility policies shall be reviewed biennially during revisions to the
CIP/FPM. Desirable changes shall be implemented during the annual
Comprehensive Plan amendment process.
Policy CF-1.29 Policies and practices of sound governmental budgeting and accounting
principles, revenue diversity, and promoting the economic well-being of the City
shall be used, in order to maintain an AA bond rating or better for the City.
Policy CF-1.30 In the event that anticipated funding falls short of meeting existing and/or
anticipated needs, the City shall reassess and revise the following, as needed:
• Funding alternatives; and/or
• The level of service standards of the City.
Enterprise Funds Policies
Policy CF-1.31 Utility rates and charges shall be structured to ensure adequate infrastructure
development, in addition to compliance with operation, maintenance, and
federal and State requirements.
Policy CF-1.32 Adequate reserved working capital balances shall be maintained for each
enterprise fund's annual expenditures. The fund balance for enterprise funds, at
the close of each fiscal year, shall equal or exceed 20% of the previous year's
revenue, exclusive of significant non -operating, non -recurring revenues such as
real estate sales, transfers in from other funds, or debt proceeds.
Policy CF-1.33 Rate increases shall be small, applied frequently, and staggered to avoid an
overly burdensome increase and undue impact in any given year.
Policy CF-1.34 Each enterprise fund shall be reviewed at least biennially and shall have a rate
structure adequate to meet its operations and maintenance and long-term
capital requirements.
23 King County Countywide Planning Policy PF-27
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DRAFT
Capital Facilities
Comprehensive Plan
Policy CF-1.35 Rate increases of external agencies (i.e., King County secondary wastewater
treatment fees) shall be passed through to the users of the utility.
Policy CF-1.36 For safety and health reasons, the City shall provide sewers to all residential and
commercial areas in the City's service area by using a combination of operating
revenues, grants, loans, bonds, voluntary local improvement district formations,
and/or interfund loans.
Policy CF-1.37 Interfund loans shall be permissible if practical. Interest rates shall be computed
based on the discounted market rate that is based on the US Treasury note
rate(s) corresponding to the term of the loan, in order to adequately
compensate the loaning fund.
Policy CF-1.38 When there is a general long-term benefit to the respective enterprise fund and
its customers, the City shall use bonded indebtedness as a funding alternative.
Level -of -Service Standards
Policy CF-1.39 Sufficient system capacity for surface water, water, sewer, and transportation is
required prior to approval of any new development. (Standards for surface
water, water and sewer are codified in the City's Municipal Code, and the
transportation standards are in the Transportation Element of this Plan.) New
development must pass the concurrency tests before development may be
permitted.
Policy CF-1.40 The City shall monitor the capacity and maintain the water, sewer, surface
water, and transportation systems at the adopted standards.
GOAL CF-2
A Capital Improvement Program and facility designs that meet the broad
spectrum of the City's human needs, rather than just traditional needs
such as vehicular and pedestrian circulation, drinking water distribution,
and sewage collection.
Policy CF-2.1 The City shall recognize and provide for multiple purposes and functions of all
City facilities and, where possible, incorporate the needs of the individual within
the design.
Policy CF-2.2 The design of infrastructure improvements shall include conservation of
resources, such as water reuse and energy -efficient electric fixtures, and the use
of local power generation.
DRAFT
Capital Facilities
Comprehensive Plan
Policy CF-2.3 The design and location of infrastructure improvement shall consider the impact
of climate change, environmental justice, seismic occurrence, flood risk, and
maintaining the ability to serve the community in the event of a natural or other
'disaster.
Policy CF-2.4 Minimizing the costs of maintaining, operating, and other life cycle costs shall be
used as a criterion in the design and funding for any capital facility.
Policy CF-2.5 The design and construction of capital projects shall:
• Use best practices for constructing in accordance with crime prevention
through environmental design;
• Create high -quality built places that, as appropriate, are accessible to all;
• Have a strong landscape component;
• Maximize environmental and economic benefits;
• Minimize environmental impacts; and
• Promote public health by providing opportunities for safe and convenient
daily physical activity.
Policy CF-2.6 Throughout the City, the focus of capital investments shall be on creating a
connected, dynamic urban environment.
Policy CF-2.7 The City, both acting on its own or in coordination with flood protection
partners, shall seek, design, and implement flood hazard reduction projects, that
are long-term and low -maintenance flood hazard management solutions that
meet multiple objectives, such as flood hazard protection, flood storage, water
quality, recreation and habitat restoration.
Policy CF-2.8 Reduce the solid waste stream and encourage reuse and recycling.25
MOVED HERE FROM NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Goal CF-3.1 The Green River levee system is constructed, maintained and certified to
meet the accreditation standards of the Federal Emergency Management
Administration and the City's Shoreline Master Program.26
Policy CF-3.2 Coordinate with King County Flood Control District and the U.S. Army Corps of
za To account for man-made disasters - huge fires, explosions, etc.
zs King County Countywide Planning Policy, K_PF-14
ze Based on maps of the city it appears the Fort Dent levee is located north of 1-405 and additional levees are
located south of 1-405. Referring to it as the Green River levee system will prevent confusion.
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DRAFT
Capital Facilities
Comprehensive Plan
Engineers to inspect and maintain the City's levee system and determine if it
adequately protects the City in the face of increased flood events associated
with Climate Change27
Policy CF-3.3 Restrict levee encroachments by adjacent property owners.
Policy CF-3.3 Continue to work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to develop levee
vegetation policies for the Green River levee system that enhance the ecosystem
by providing shade and improving fish habitat, while at the same time protecting
public safety and reducing long-term maintenance needs and costs.
Policy CF-3.4 Coordinate with the City of Kent on flood control projects and climate impact
studies that affect both jurisdictions, while complying with Tukwila's Shoreline
Master Program.28
RELATED INFORMATION
Capital Facilities Element Background Report
Capital Improvement Program/Financial Planning Model (CIP/FPM)
Fire Master Plan
Parks, Recreation and Open Space Plan
Surface Water Plan
Water Plan
Sewer Plan
Transportation Background Report
27 While the levee system is currently adequate seasonal flooding is projected to increase in both frequency and
severity. Ensuring that this system is in line with future flooding predictions will ensure public health, safety and
general welfare.
28 Any proposed projects should consider how those projects may be impacted by climate change.
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Attachment L
Summary of Public Involvement Completed for the
2024-2044 Tukwila Comprehensive Plan
BACKGROUND
Legal Requirements
A number of state, regional, and local laws require robust public participation in the development and
updating of Comprehensive Plans. These include:
• Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 365-196-600 requires early and continuous public
participation in the amendment of comprehensive plans.
• The state Growth Management Act, RCW 36.70A.140, which states that every jurisdiction "shall
establish and broadly disseminate to the public a public participation program identifying
procedures for early and continuous public participation (emphasis added) in the development
and amendment of comprehensive plan land use plans and development regulations
implementing such plans."
• New legislation codified in RCW 36.70A.040(8) requiring coordination with Tribes.
Engagement Goals and Themes
To guide Tukwila's 2024-2044 Comprehensive Plan Update, staff developed a Community Engagement
Plan that was reviewed by the City Council. The City Council supported broad community involvement
in addressing City issues and in the update of the Comprehensive Plan.
The Engagement Plan provided guidelines for the outreach effort, and identified two goals:
• Conduct an equitable and inclusive community engagement process that revisits the 2015
Comprehensive Plan Vision Statement and the priorities expressed in its goals and policies to
determine if they continue to resonate with the community's values today.
• Ensure compliance with the GMA, Puget Sound Regional Council Vision 2050 multicounty
planning policies, and King Countywide Planning Policies.
Key themes to be woven into Comprehensive Plan update include:
• Advancing the City's Equity policy (Resolution 1921)
• Ensuring affordable housing options for all
• Identifying avoidance or mitigation strategies if Plan policies could create a potential for
displacement of residents and jobs
• Promoting community resilience — environmental, economic, and social; and
• Continuing to improve the quality of life for the community as change happens in the future.
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Key Groups to Engage
Since the Comprehensive plan affects Tukwila life in a wide variety of ways, the target audience
identified whose input is valued includes:
• Everyone who lives in, works in, worships in, shops in, plays in, or visits Tukwila, and
• Everyone who wants to live in, work in, worship in, shop in, play in, or visit Tukwila but isn't here
yet!
In speaking to the Tukwila residents, particular energy was invested in acquiring input, feedback, and
engagement with a subset of key stakeholders who have been historically underrepresented in previous
planning efforts. These priority populations include:
• Community -based organizations (CBOs)
• Religious organizations
• Immigrant and refugee communities that may face language barriers
• Low-income households
• Seniors and youth
• Housing -challenged populations
OUTREACH OUTCOMES
Planning Staff began working with the community in mid-2022. During the summer of 2022 through
February 2024, staff has been attending community events and meeting with community boards,
commissions, and business organizations. A wide variety of communications methods, activities, and
mediums have been used to invite and encourage participation in the Plan update. These include:
• Briefings at community and other meetings, some hosted by the City, some hosted by others;
• Pop-up tabling at specific community locations;
• Website-based contacts that allowed the public to take surveys, leave information, and gather
information;
• Targeted Interviews — this was an especially important approach used to collect feedback from
community -based organizations (CBOs) who might have been otherwise overlooked if the City
were to apply traditional information gathering approaches for the Plan. This mechanism
provided access to Tukwila communities where members are disinclined to engage with
government or participate in largely English-speaking events. Additional cultural norms may also
affect who is comfortable speaking in particular settings. Targeted interviews were facilitated in
ways that participants felt comfortable providing input, and could speak in their own language if
desired.
To date, in addition to feedback received through community outreach, the City's Planning Commission
has provided regular comment on the proposed amendments to the Plan. During the Spring of 2024,
the draft plan will be shared with regulatory agencies for their review and confirmation that the Plan is
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consistent with required policy guidance. The draft plan will also receive environmental review prior to
consideration and adoption by the Tukwila City Council.
Outreach Mechanism
Frequency of Use
City project website and online
engagement hub
• The update website was launched in early 2022 and
maintained regularly with upcoming events, information
about issues being considered by the planning commission,
and opportunities for involvement and awareness of
comprehensive plan policy issues.
• Since the spring of 2023, the project Engagement Hub has
been available to review plan element information, complete
surveys, and log your comments.
• The City website is also used to encourage the community to
learn about the Planning Commission — the topics it
addressed, its work on the Comprehensive Plan and other
development projects, and how to apply for any vacancies
that emerged on the Commission.
City e-updates email list
• Staff compiled an extensive list of more than 600 businesses,
community organizations, and religious groups and individuals
whose input was sought, or who were known community
leaders who had participated in previous planning efforts.
Names and email addresses were also collected from the
Planning Commission website and Engagement Hub. Staff
used the contact list to:
o inform recipients of upcoming Planning Commission
meeting dates and document review;
o promote attendance at upcoming Community Open
Houses, and invite recipients to take the website's online
surveys or review material about housing conditions in the
City and learn about policy ideas being considered; and
o invite addressees to contact staff if they have questions or
want more information about the Plan.
City print media through print
mailings and newsletters
• Numerous articles were published in the City's Hazelnut and
e-hazelnut newsletters
City social media (Facebook,
Twitter, and/or other sites)
• All significant outreach events were forwarded to the City's
Communications department and posted on social media
from there.
City connections to local advocacy
and business organizations
• Beginning in 2022, City staff advertised their availability to
speak to groups about the plan. Staff addressed a handful of
groups that responded.
Passive displays/materials exhibited
at community gathering sites (e.g.,
library, etc.)
• Staff posted flyers about upcoming community open houses
at several local community stops (e.g., the library, Community
Center, etc.)
In -person outreach at public and
community meetings, events, and
through direct business outreach
• Staff attended many community events offered through the
Tukwila Parks Department, CBO fairs and other community
group fairs, the City Farmer's Market, Rotary, numerous City
Boards and Commissions. The Staff sponsored at least 5
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Outreach Mechanism
Frequency of Use
major community open houses. Planning staff also reached
out to all City Departments and Divisions for input on Plan
policies.
Outreach materials that facilitated
attendance at events or invited
attention to the plan, such as
posters, informational materials,
offering meetings at different times
of day to attract different groups;
swag that gets attention, and other
attractions (translation, food, etc.)
• The City developed promotional materials that advertised
city -sponsored outreach events; provided food at such events
to enable people to attend meetings over the dinner hour;
provided SWAG to attract people over to talk with you at
events, etc.
Main Focus of Outreach Received
The vast majority of community comments received address housing: the need for more affordable
housing and the need for more housing types available, specifically housing types that support specific
needs (e.g., large families, seniors, disabled, etc.). This feedback has been incorporated into the largest
pillar of this Comprehensive Plan Update — policies that address the provision of Housing in Tukwila.
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