Thurston County: Capital Improvement Program Concerns
The Thurston County Planning Commission, a body central to ensuring transparent government and resident oversight in county planning, recently delivered a striking "No Recommendation" for the adoption of the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). This decisive 7-1 vote underscored deep concerns over how the program’s proposed projects and its very review process could significantly impact future development, land use planning, and public participation in shaping the county's growth.
The CIP is a cornerstone of the county's development strategy, mandated by the Growth Management Act as a vital six-year financing plan for capital facilities. It dictates where and how crucial infrastructure — essential for accommodating anticipated growth — will be funded. Updated annually, this program outlines projects that directly influence development patterns and the availability of public services to support a growing population. The proposed 2025-2030 CIP is a comprehensive overhaul, replacing its predecessor, and is currently undergoing environmental review as a non-project action.
Bothell: Eliminates Required Parking Minimums
Say goodbye to parking minimums! One of the most significant changes is the elimination of required parking minimums for new developments. Gone are the days of rigid rules dictating a specific number of parking stalls per property. This shift, a culmination of years of discussion at both the Planning Commission and City Council levels, was significantly propelled by recent state law changes (SB 5184). Why the change? Existing parking minimums have often been a roadblock, making many housing projects in Bothell financially unfeasible. By allowing developers the flexibility to determine the appropriate number of parking spaces for each project, instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, Bothell is opening doors for more diverse and challenging developments to take root. This doesn't mean less parking on our streets or a ban on building more; it simply means more flexibility for new projects.
Puyallup: Opposition to Comprehensive Plan Update
On June 10, Puyallup City Council faced protests from about 20 residents during a meeting concerning amendments to the city’s proposed comprehensive plan. This plan, set to guide the city until 2044, incorporates updated language on critical areas including equity, tribal history, climate change, and housing. Eleven residents spoke out, arguing the changes would make Puyallup less welcoming and potentially conflict with state law. Resident Heather Schiller urged the council to consider an inclusive future, acknowledging the long-term impact of their decisions. The two-hour meeting, marked by impassioned council speeches, public reactions, and an unplanned executive session for legal review, culminated in a 4-3 vote passing the plan’s first reading. Mayor Jim Kastama, Deputy Mayor Dennis King, and council members Dean Johnson and Renne Gilliam voted for it, while Ned Witting, Julie Door, and Lauren Adler voted against. A second reading and final vote are pending, after which the plan will undergo state and regional review.
Renton: Rainier/Grady Junction TOD Subarea Plan
The Rainier/Grady Junction Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Subarea Plan articulates a forward-looking vision and a comprehensive set of strategies designed to cultivate a vibrant, people-centric neighborhood. This initiative centers around the anticipated expansion of Sound Transit's bus rapid transit (BRT) line and a new transit center, strategically located at the intersection of Rainier Avenue South and South Grady Way. The City of Renton proactively engaged MAKERS Architecture and Urban Design to orchestrate a detailed planning process, laying the groundwork for the inevitable surge in new development around this forthcoming transit hub. The resulting subarea plan is intended to serve as a guiding framework for future growth and public investment in the area, emphasizing integrated mixed-use development, maximized multimodal transportation choices, enhanced pedestrian connectivity, and seamless integration with adjacent communities. The new transit center and BRT service are slated to commence operations in 2026, marking a significant milestone for regional transit.
Issaquah: Central Issaquah Plan
The City of Issaquah is actively pursuing a comprehensive vision for its urban core, centered around the Central Issaquah Plan, originally adopted in 2013. This plan aims to foster a dynamic urban environment while simultaneously safeguarding residential neighborhoods and the natural landscape. The City's ongoing commitment to this vision is evident through multiple interconnected initiatives, including the development of the Transit Oriented Development Opportunity Center (TOD-OC) and strategic public-private partnerships designed to enhance the vitality of the entire Central Issaquah area. These efforts are further bolstered by other key 2025 work plan items, such as continued light rail expansion planning, implementation of the housing strategy work plan, support for workforce housing development, improvements to the project permitting review process, execution of the economic development action plan, and a review of city property assets and surplus properties. As of Q1 2025, progress is on track with various projects under assessment, including the TOD-OC, permitting improvements, development bonus program investment criteria, utility fee waivers, and robust outreach to developers and property owners. Specifically, Q1 work on the TOD-OC involved reviewing cost estimates, initiating discussions on a condominium agreement, seeking reappropriation of prior funding, and commencing predesign work with health service providers.
Bainbridge Island: Winslow Subarea Plan Update
The City of Bainbridge Island's Planning Commission is currently engaged in a significant review and discussion of the Winslow Subarea Plan Update, focusing on its land use strategy, future growth, and zoning. This review, which began in January 2025 and is expected to conclude in May 2025, represents a crucial step in shaping the future of Winslow, the island's vibrant hub.
A Subarea Plan, much like a city's comprehensive plan, establishes land use and transportation policies, but specifically for a defined geographical area. In this instance, it encompasses the areas around Winslow Way, Island Village, public schools, and surrounding residential zones. The existing Winslow Subarea Plan, originally approved in 1998 and last updated in 2006, covered various aspects including housing, open space, public facilities, transportation, and utilities. This current update aims to integrate subsequent planning efforts such as the Sustainable Transportation Plan, Housing Action Plan, and Climate Action Plan, alongside new land use and transportation policy recommendations.
Mercer Island: HB 1293 Design Provisions
In 2023, Washington State enacted House Bill (HB) 1293, a pivotal piece of legislation that fundamentally reshapes how cities and counties can regulate building design under the Growth Management Act (GMA). This new law, codified as RCW 36.70A.630, introduces two critical requirements for local design review standards: they must be clear and objective, and they absolutely cannot reduce development intensity below the level generally permitted by a property's zoning. For the City of Mercer Island, this means a significant overhaul of its existing design standards, enshrined in Mercer Island City Code (MICC) Chapters 19.11, 19.12, and 19.15, which date back to 1972. The city has until June 30, 2025, to achieve full compliance.
Kirkland: Critical Areas Updates
Ever wondered what goes into keeping Kirkland the vibrant, green, and livable city? A big part of it involves protecting our natural environment, and that's exactly what the City of Kirkland's Planning and Building Department is actively working on.
During the Planning Commission meeting in May, members gathered to discuss a deep dive into the Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) Briefing. This study session aims to discuss proposed amendments to the City’s CAO, which are mandated by the Washington State Growth Management Act (GMA) and must be completed by December 31, 2025. Failure to update the CAO could result in Kirkland being ineligible for State grants and loan programs and potential legal complications. The initial focus of this briefing is on updates related to wetlands and wetland buffers, with future sessions planned for fish and wildlife habitat areas (streams) and geologically hazardous areas. Staff has conducted an initial gap analysis and anticipates that significant revisions may not be needed to meet State requirements, but clarity and streamlined permitting are also goals.
Bothell: Housing Action Plan
The City of Bothell is actively engaging its community in shaping its future through several key planning initiatives aimed at addressing housing needs, revitalizing its downtown core, mitigating climate change, and enhancing its urban forest. The Housing Action Plan (HAP) is a crucial undertaking designed to ensure a diverse range of affordable housing options are available to all residents. Recognizing the state-wide housing shortage, Bothell aims to proactively create solutions that allow individuals from all backgrounds and income levels to call the city home. The HAP will guide the creation of more diverse housing types, including affordable options, through thoughtful policies, partnerships, and innovative strategies, prioritizing equitable access and long-term solutions for a vibrant and inclusive community.
Tacoma: Bridge Industrial Project
The Bridge Industrial Warehouse Project, a proposed 150-acre development on the former BNSF rail maintenance site in South Tacoma, aims to create approximately 2.5 million square feet of light industrial and warehouse space within four large buildings. Situated south of the Nalley Valley industrial/commercial zone, between South Tyler Street and the Sound Transit Sounder line at 5024 S Madison Street, the project site is zoned for industrial use.
WA State: House Bill 1217
Governor Bob Ferguson has recently signed House Bill 1217. The bill introduces new regulations that will affect residential and manufactured/mobile home tenancies and aims to improve housing stability for tenants through several key provisions.
Lynnwood: City Center + Alderwood Plan
Lynnwood is embarking on a comprehensive planning initiative to shape the future of its City Center and Alderwood areas over the next two decades. This 1.2 square mile region, strategically positioned between I-5 and I-405, is poised for significant transformation with the arrival of two light rail stations as part of Sound Transit’s Lynnwood and Everett Link Extensions. Recognizing its designation as a Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) regional growth center since 1995, the city is proactively developing the City Center + Alderwood Plan to create a cohesive and thriving urban heart. This planning effort is a continuation of Lynnwood’s long-standing policy of concentrating population and job growth within this subarea, aligning with previous plans and transportation investments.
Gig Harbor: Housing Plan
Gig Harbor is nearing completion of its Comprehensive Plan, a 20-year roadmap mandated by Washington State to manage anticipated population growth. Community Development Director Eric Baker presented the draft plan to the City Council on March 24th, outlining strategies for housing development through 2044. The city has experienced significant growth, doubling its population since 2010, particularly in Gig Harbor North. The draft plan identified five key "Centers of Local Importance" as suitable for increased high- and medium-density housing: Gig Harbor North, Finholm, downtown, Kimball, and Westside. These areas, according to Baker, possess the necessary services like transit, shopping, and sidewalks to support denser development and encourage pedestrian activity.
Housing Trust Fund Repair Fund
Washington State is taking a significant step to safeguard its affordable housing supply with the launch of the Housing Trust Fund (HTF) Repair Fund. Recognizing that preserving existing affordable units is just as crucial as building new ones, the Washington State Legislature directed Commerce to establish this vital program in 2024. The result is a targeted funding opportunity designed to keep our low-income and permanent supportive housing safe, habitable, and available for those who need it most.
Tukwila: Title 17 Amendments
The City of Tukwila has initiated a code amendment proposal to revise regulations within Title 17 of the Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) concerning land division and street improvements. This effort is driven by the necessity to integrate these standards with newly proposed provisions for middle housing within residential zoning districts. These policy changes will apply city-wide, and public notification was disseminated through the Seattle Times and the City of Tukwila website on April 10, 2025. An environmental review will be completed before the City Council's consideration of these amendments.
Tukwila: Title 18 Amendments
The City of Tukwila has proposed comprehensive amendments to Title 18 of the Tukwila Municipal Code (TMC) to comply with recent state legislation, most notably HB 1110 concerning middle housing, with a compliance deadline of June 30, 2025. Scheduled for a hearing on April 24, 2025, under file numbers L25-0032 and E25-0009, these updates aim to streamline regulations and foster housing development that aligns with community objectives. The notification of this hearing was published in the Seattle Times and on the city's website on April 10, 2025. An environmental determination will precede City Council consideration.
Seattle: Interim Zoning Changes
Seattle aims to implement interim zoning regulation changes to comply with several recently enacted Washington State bills focused on increasing housing production and streamlining development standards. The primary driver is House Bill 1110, the "Middle Housing bill," which mandates that cities allow a wider array of housing types, including duplexes, triplexes, and stacked flats, within areas predominantly zoned for single-family residences, while also limiting the regulation of this middle housing.
Kirkland: Housing Evolution
Kirkland is actively engaged in updating its development standards to align with recent Washington State mandates concerning middle housing, accessory dwelling units, parking, and design review within its residential zones. These changes are driven by state legislation, notably the "missing middle" housing bill (E2SHB 1110) and the accessory dwelling units bill (EHB 1337), enacted to address the statewide housing affordability and availability crisis. The state's authority to impose such requirements stems from the Growth Management Act (GMA), which compels local governments to plan for housing accessible across all income levels.
Issaquah: Planning for Growth
Issaquah is strategically positioned for significant future development. While maintaining its urban-suburban feel along the I-90 corridor, the city anticipates substantial transformation, particularly in Central Issaquah and Olde Town. City plans, including the Comprehensive Plan and Central Issaquah Plan, explicitly target these areas for increased residential and employment density over the next two decades to meet mandated growth targets. This future Issaquah will see a deliberate shift in land use patterns to accommodate an expanding population and job market, building upon its existing base of major employers like Costco.
Kent: 2044 Comprehensive Plan
Kent's 2044 Comprehensive Plan lays out a strategic framework for the city's development over the next two decades, directly impacting how and where growth occurs. It prioritizes sustainable and equitable development, balancing economic growth with environmental protection and social well-being. This plan acts as a guide for zoning, infrastructure investments, and land-use decisions, aiming to shape Kent into a thriving, livable city.