HomeMy WebLinkAboutJ_ROW_Imp_Modification_Request_230905_v1
4815 Center Street
Tacoma, WA 98409-2319
(253) 474-9449 / sittshill.com
Brent K. Leslie, P.E., S.E.
Kathy A. Hargrave, P.E.
Larry G. Lindell, P.E., S.E.
Michael A. McEvilly, P.L.S.
Andrew J. Boileau, P.E., S.E.
David C. Boileau, AIA
Civil | Structural | Architectural | Survey
August 21st, 2023
THE CITY OF RENTON
1055 South Grady Way
Renton, WA 98057
TO: Mr. Clark Close, Principal Planner
SUBJECT: SW GRADY WAY OFFICES – RIGHT OF WAY IMPROVEMENTS
NARRATIVE FOR JUSTIFICATION OF MODIFICTION REQUEST
Dear Clark:
1404 Grady LLC is proposing to redevelop their property located at 1404 SW Grady Way, in Renton,
Washington, on parcel number 242304-9061. The property is currently primarily used for seasonal
vehicle storage (RVs and boats), and a single-story building presently exists at the northeast corner of
the site, which is used for staging of the owner’s construction business. The improvements will include
a new single-story office and shop building along the westerly margin of the site, with vehicle
circulation and parking along the east property line. Other improvements include asphalt pavement;
retaining walls; concrete walks; storm, sanitary sewer, domestic, fire, and irrigation water utilities; and
landscaping.
As a result of the pre-application meeting, it was determined that per City of Renton Municipal Code
RMC 4-6-060, this project will require half street improvements including a 0.5-foot curb, an 8-foot
planting strip, and an 8-foot sidewalk. We are seeking a modification of this requirement, and this
document is meant to identify the practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this
requirement, and justify why the project should be excused from this requirement.
MODIFICATION REQUEST
Presently, the site is furnished with concrete curb and gutter, an 8’ wide concrete walk directly behind
the curb, and landscaping between the sidewalk and right-of-way line. In order to comply with the
requirement to RMC 4-6-060, this project would need to demolish the existing concrete sidewalk, to
be replaced 8-feet behind the existing curb. The sidewalk relocation would also require demolition of
three existing street trees which are currently proposed to be saved. Additionally, the relocation of
the sidewalk 8-feet behind the curb would present grading challenges on this site, since the site is
substantially lower than the street.
This modification is justified for the following reasons:
a. The proposed modification substantially implements the policy direction of the policies and
objectives of the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Element and the Community Design Element.
Curb and gutter, sidewalk, and landscaping already exist along the full frontage of the site.
b. The proposal will meet the objectives and safety, function, appearance, environmental
protection and maintainability of the existing system. Leaving the existing sidewalk in place at
the back of curb will allow the proponent to save three existing street trees and simplify the
grading into the site.
THE CITY OF RENTON
August 21st, 2023
Page 2 of 2
c. The proposal will not create substantial adverse impacts to other properties in the vicinity.
Shifting of the sidewalk to 8’ behind the curb will require transitional sidewalk panels on
neighboring properties.
d. The proposal conforms to the intent and purpose of the Code. This site will still possess the
requisite curb and gutter, 8-foot wide sidewalk, and 8-foot wide landscaping.
e. Is shown to be justified and required for the use and situation intended. See responses above.
We feel that this Modification Request Narrative satisfactorily presents the practical difficulties
involved in carrying out the provisions of the City Code for ROW improvements. Please feel free to
contact our office with any additional questions or comments regarding this project.
Sincerely,
Don Davis, P.E.
Senior Project Engineer
O:\19800\19871\Permits & Applications\~Master Document List\J_ROW_Imp_Modification_Request_230821_v1.docx