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SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 1
(WAC 197-11-960)
SEPA 1 Environmental Checklist
Purpose of checklist
Governmental agencies use this checklist to help determine whether the environmental impacts of your proposal are
significant. This information is also helpful to determine if available avoidance, minimization, or compensatory
mitigation measures will address the probable significant impacts or if an environmental impact statement will be
prepared to further analyze the proposal.
Instructions for applicants
This environmental checklist asks you to describe some basic information about your proposal. Please answer each
question accurately and carefully, to the best of your knowledge. You may need to consult with an agency specialist or
private consultant for some questions. You may use “not applicable” or “does not apply” only when you can explain
why it does not apply and not when the answer is unknown. You may also attach or incorporate by reference
additional studies reports. Complete and accurate answers to these questions often avoid delays with the SEPA process
as well as later in the decision-making process.
The checklist questions apply to all parts of your proposal, even if you plan to do them over a period of time or on
different parcels of land. Attach any additional information that will help describe your proposal or its environmental
effects. The agency to which you submit this checklist may ask you to explain your answers or provide additional
information reasonably related to determining if there may be significant adverse impact.
Instructions for lead agencies
Please adjust the format of this template as needed. Additional information may be necessary to evaluate the existing
environment, all interrelated aspects of the proposal and an analysis of adverse impacts. The checklist is considered the
first but not necessarily the only source of information needed to make an adequate threshold determination. Once a
threshold determination is made, the lead agency is responsible for the completeness and accuracy of the checklist and
other supporting documents.
Use of checklist for nonproject proposals
For nonproject proposals (such as ordinances, regulations, plans and programs), complete the applicable parts of
sections A and B, plus the Supplemental Sheet for Nonproject Actions (Part D). Please completely answer all
questions that apply and note that the words "project," "applicant," and "property or site" should be read as
"proposal," "proponent," and "affected geographic area," respectively. The lead agency may exclude (for non-
projects) questions in “Part B: Environmental Elements” that do not contribute meaningfully to the analysis of
the proposal.
1 https://ecology.wa.gov/Regulations-Permits/SEPA/Environmental-review/SEPA-guidance/Checklist-guidance
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 2
(WAC 197-11-960)
A. Background
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable:
Hazen High School Modernization
2. Name of applicant:
Renton School District
3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person:
Applicant: Matt Feldmeyer
Executive Director, Capital Planning and Construction
Renton School District
7812 South 124th Street
Seattle, WA 98178
(206) 482-5253
Agent: Lisa Klein, AICP
AHBL, Inc.
2215 N 30th Street Suite 300
Tacoma, WA 98403
(253) 383-2422
4. Date checklist prepared:
September 16, 2024
5. Agency requesting checklist:
Renton School District
6. Proposed timing of schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
Construction is anticipated to start in the spring of 2025 and be completed by Fall 2028.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or
connected with this proposal? If yes, explain.
There are no further additions, expansions or further activity related to this proposal.
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be
prepared, directly related to this proposal.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 3
(WAC 197-11-960)
Has been prepared:
Geotech Report by Associated Earth Sciences, Inc. dated August 26, 2024
Architectural Site Plan by Integrus dated July 16, 2024
Lighting Plan by Musco dated August 15, 2024
Thermal Drilling Report by Associated Earth Sciences, Inc. dated August 30, 2024
Hazardous Materials Survey Report by PBS, dated June 18, 2024
To be prepared:
Civil Engineering Plans
Landscape Plans
Drainage Report
Arborist Report
UST Closure Technical Memorandum (PBS)
9. Do you know whether applications are pending for governmental approvals of other
proposals directly affecting the property covered by your proposal? If yes, explain.
There are no other pending application or government approvals impacting this project to
our knowledge. SEPA Environmental Review and permits were completed for the addition
of four portables to Hazen High School in 2023, which have not been constructed yet. A
combination of lots is required.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
City of Renton: Administrative Site Plan Review, Civil Construction Permit, Building Permit
Dept. of Ecology: Construction General Stormwater Permit, Approval for UST closure.
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency: Demolition approval (if needed)
11. Give brief, complete description of your proposal, including the proposed uses and the
size of the project and site. There are several questions later in this checklist that ask you
to describe certain aspects of your proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers on
this page. (Lead agencies may modify this form to include additional specific information
on project description.)
Renton School District is proposing various site and building improvements at the Hazen
High School campus including the addition of a 500 square foot security vestibule near the
existing main entrance, seismic upgrades, water heating system upgrades, replacement of
the existing HVAC system, reroofing of the main building, renovation of classroom,
commons and library, fencing, and various other interior improvements.
Exterior improvements include a below grade electrical vault, upgraded athletic fields,
including the installation of synthetic turf and field lighting for a baseball and multipurpose
field.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 4
(WAC 197-11-960)
The District is proposing to install an underground geothermal heating system. An existing
10,000-gallon underground storage tank will be permanently closed in place and the
surrounding contaminated soils cleaned up in accordance with Dept. of Ecology
requirements.
Temporary portable will be needed to relocate students during construction. The proposal
will not change student capacity or enrollment.
The existing building is approximately 327,395 sq. ft. in size. The campus is located on eight
(8) parcels totaling approximately 33.3 acres.
12. Location of the proposal. Give sufficient information for a person to understand the
precise location of your proposed project, including a street address, if any, and section,
township, and range, if known. If a proposal would occur over a range of area, provide the
range or boundaries of the site(s). Provide a legal description, site plan, vicinity map, and
topographic map, if reasonably available. While you should submit any plans required by
the agency, you are not required to duplicate maps or detailed plans submitted with any
permit applications related to this checklist.
The site is located at 1101 Hoquiam Ave NE, Renton 98059
Parcel numbers: 1023059057, 1023059278, 1023059201, 1023059277, 1023059094,
1023059292, 1023059084, 1023059072
It’s located in the far eastern side of Renton in the Brookfield neighborhood.
Section 10Township 23 North, Range 05 East Willamette Principal Meridian
N 1/2 OF NW 1/4 OF NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4 LESS N 30 FT & E 30 FT FOR RDS LESS E 200 FT OF N
170 FT ALSO N 15 FT OF S 1/2 OF NW 1/4 OF NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4 LESS E 30 FT FOR RD
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 5
(WAC 197-11-960)
Figure 1 - Vicinity Map
B. Environmental Elements
1. Earth
a. General description of the site:
The project area is an already developed high school campus built in 1969 including classroom
buildings, ballfields, parking and landscaping. The site is generally flat with steep slopes on the
perimeter.
Circle or highlight one: Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountainous, other:
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
There are some steep slopes on the sight. Most of which range from 15-25%, with some
small areas, mostly on the perimeter of the site ranging from 25-40% per Renton COR
Maps.
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(WAC 197-11-960)
c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay, sand, gravel, peat,
muck)? If you know the classification of agricultural soils, specify them, and note any
agricultural land of long-term commercial significance and whether the proposal
results in removing any of these soils.
According to the USDA Soil Survey map, the area is designated 100% as Alderwood
gravelly sandy loam 8-15% slopes. The exploration borings completed for this study
generally encountered existing fill soils overlying Vashon ice-contact sediments, Vashon
lodgement till, Vashon advance outwash (lacustrine) and/or pre-Fraser sediments
observed at depth depending on location” (Geotech Report, pg 4).
d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If
so, describe.
There are no known indication of unstable soils on or in the immediate vicinity of the
site.
e. Describe the purpose, type, total area, and approximate quantities and total affected
area of any filling, excavation, and grading proposed. Indicate source of fill.
Approximately 8,500 CY of cut and 1,200 CY of fill will be needed for the field and storm
detention system excavation and backfill. This figure does not include any utility line
excavation (electrical and geothermal piping), or excavation spoils for the geothermal
wells installation.
f. Could erosion occur because of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally describe.
Erosion could occur during construction activities associated with grading and filling. To
minimize potential erosion impacts, temporary erosion procedures and best
management will be employed.
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project
construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
The project will add approximately 25.7% of additional impervious surface area with the
construction of proposed synthetic turf fields, for a total of roughly 49.9% impervious
surface coverage for the entire property.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if any.
During construction, temporary erosion and sediment controls will be used to ensure
earthwork does not cause any erosion impacts. A Temporary Erosion Sediment Control
Plan will be submitted as part of the grading/site development permit application.
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(WAC 197-11-960)
2. Air
a. What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal during construction,
operation, and maintenance when the project is completed? If any, generally describe
and give approximate quantities if known.
Construction activities have the potential to create temporary dust emissions during
earth-moving activities and exhaust emissions due to the combustion of gasoline and
diesel fuels. Dust and exhaust emissions are expected to be minimal, localized, and
temporary.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal? If
so, generally describe.
The site is bounded by city roadways that generate vehicle emissions that may be
present in the vicinity of the site. There are no other known off-site air emissions or
odors that may impact the proposal.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any:
During construction, temporary measures will be applied where necessary, which may
include limiting the idling of construction equipment, water sprays to control dust,
limiting vehicle speeds, and general maintenance of construction equipment.
3. Water
a. Surface:
1. Is there any surface water body on or in the immediate vicinity of the site
(including year-round and seasonal streams, saltwater, lakes, ponds, wetlands)? If
yes, describe type and provide names. If appropriate, state what stream or river it
flows into.
Approximately 200 ft to the west of the edge of the parcel, or approximately 600 ft
from the school building (i.e. off-site), there is a half-acre wetland (per Renton GIS
maps). Likely the storm drainage pond from a subdivision circa 2002.
Approximately 600 ft to the northeast there is another wetland in conjunction with
Honey Creek, a seasonal stream (per King County iMap).
2. Will the project require any work over, in, or adjacent to (within 200 feet) the
described waters? If yes, please describe and attach available plans.
No work will be required over, in, or adjacent to the described wetland.
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(WAC 197-11-960)
3. Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be placed in or
removed from surface water or wetlands and indicate the area of the site that
would be affected. Indicate the source of fill material.
No fill or dredge material will be placed in or removed from surface water.
4. Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions? Give a general
description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
No surface water will be withdrawn or diverted as a result of this proposal.
5. Does the proposal lie within a 100-year floodplain? If so, note location on the site
plan.
No, the proposal site does not lie within a 100-year or 500-year floodplain per FEMA
FIRM map 53033C0669G and 53033C0982G, as indicated on King County iMap.
6. Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to surface waters? If
so, describe the type of waste and anticipated volume of discharge.
No, the proposal does not involve any discharges of waste materials to surface
waters.
b. Ground:
1. Will groundwater be withdrawn from a well for drinking water or other purposes?
If so, give a general description of the well, proposed uses and approximate
quantities withdrawn from the well. Will water be discharged to groundwater?
Give a general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
There will be no groundwater withdrawn from a well for this proposal. Stormwater
and irrigation water will not be discharged to groundwater.
2. Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from septic tanks
or other sources, if any (domestic sewage; industrial, containing the following
chemicals…; agricultural; etc.). Describe the general size of the system, the number
of such systems, the number of houses to be served (if applicable), or the number
of animals or humans the system(s) are expected to serve.
There will be no wastewater material discharged into the ground as a result of this
proposal, as the proposal does not add any plumbing or additional waste material
from humans or animals.
c. Water Runoff (including stormwater):
1. Describe the source of runoff (including storm water) and method of collection
and disposal, if any (include quantities, if known). Where will this water flow? Will
this water flow into other waters? If so, describe.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 9
(WAC 197-11-960)
The source of runoff will be new impervious surfaces. The City defines synthetic turf
as an impervious surface.
Because of the increase of impervious surfaces, the project proposes to manage all
stormwater flows on-site and install a detention system that will be designed to
meet the City of Renton Surface Water Design Manual, which follows the 2021 King
County Surface Water Design Manual. Stormwater will be held in a detention system
and released at a rate that will be less than existing conditions and conveyed to the
existing on-site storm drainage system.
Water quality treatment is not anticipated for the fields if natural turf infill such as
cork is utilized. If other infill materials are used, such as crumb rubber, water quality
treatment will be required and be provided for the project to treat stormwater
runoff prior to conveying the “clean” stormwater to the detention system that will
meet the City of Renton Surface Water Design Manual.
2. Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe.
No waste materials will enter ground or surface waters as a result of this proposal.
3. Does the proposal alter or otherwise affect drainage patterns in the vicinity of the
site? If so, describe.
The proposal will not affect drainage patterns in the vicinity.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water, and
drainage pattern impacts, if any:
All storm drainage treatment features will be designed to meet or exceed the 2022 City
of Renton Surface Water Design Manual.
4. Plants
a. Check the types of vegetation found on the site:
☒ deciduous tree: alder, maple, aspen, other
☒ evergreen tree: fir, cedar, pine, other
☒ shrubs
☒ grass
☐ pasture
☐ crop or grain
☐ orchards, vineyards, or other permanent crops.
☐ wet soil plants: cattail, buttercup, bullrush, skunk cabbage, other
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 10
(WAC 197-11-960)
☐ water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
☐ other types of vegetation
b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
Vegetation from the natural turf fields will be removed and replaced with synthetic turf.
The surface vegetation (lawn) around the western baseball field will be disturbed and
replaced for the installation of a geothermal system. Approximately 5-8 small trees
between 6” and 10” caliper are anticipated to be removed as part of this proposal.
Other trees adjacent to construction will be protected.
c. List threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
There are no known threatened or endangered plant species on or near the site.
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or enhance
vegetation on the site, if any.
All disturbed surfaces will be hydroseeded or replaced with synthetic turf.
e. List all noxious weeds and invasive species known to be on or near the site.
According to King County iMap, tansy ragwort and policeman’s helmet have been
spotted on or directly adjacent to the site.
5. Animals
a. List any birds and other animals that have been observed on or near the site or are
known to be on or near the site.
Examples include:
• Birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds, other:
• Mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other: small mammals
• Fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other:
b. List any threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Priority Habitat and Species
Mapping does not list any threatened or endangered species near the site.
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
The Puget Sound region is part of the Pacific flyway, a bird migration route.
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any.
The proposal does not include any impacts to wildlife, therefore no measures are
proposed.
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(WAC 197-11-960)
e. List any invasive animal species known to be on or near the site.
There are no known invasive animal species on or near the site.
6. Energy and natural resources
a. What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, wood stove, solar) will be used to meet
the completed project's energy needs? Describe whether it will be used for heating,
manufacturing, etc.
The proposal includes an HVAC system upgrade which will utilize electricity. Part of the
proposed infrastructure upgrades include installation of a geothermal well system,
connected to water source heat pumps, which will provide an energy-efficient primary
heating and cooling source.
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties? If
so, generally describe.
No, the project will not affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties.
c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this proposal?
List other proposed measures to reduce or control energy impacts, if any.
A new roof with insulation levels meeting current energy code, a new HVAC system and
geothermal well system will yield more energy efficiency than the current energy use.
The new field lights will utilize LED fixtures.
7. Environmental health
a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic chemicals,
risk of fire and explosion, spill, or hazardous waste, that could occur because of this
proposal? If so, describe.
Environmental health hazards could occur in interior renovation and exterior excavation
phase of this project. Contaminated soils will be encountered and cleaned up as part of
the closure-in-place of an existing underground storage tank. Interior building materials
contain asbestos, PCBs, lead containing paint and mercury-containing light bulbs. The
cleanup will be completed in accordance with Dept. of Ecology and Puget Sound Clean
Air Agency requirements. During construction, accidental spills of hazardous materials
from demolition, equipment, and vehicles could occur.
Any asbestos-containing materials that would be affected by construction will first be
abated in accordance with the applicable local, state and federal regulations. Any
construction work impacting lead-containing paint will be performed according to
Washington State Department of Labor & Industries regulations. Any fluorescent lights
will be carefully recycled or disposed of in accordance with L&I regulations.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 12
(WAC 197-11-960)
1. Describe any known or possible contamination at the site from present or past
uses.
According to Washington State Department of Ecology’s “What’s in my
neighborhood?” tool, there is contamination from a previous underground oil
storage tank on the site that was used for heating. The tank was replaced in 2011,
but upon removal a hole was discovered in the tank that leaked petroleum into the
ground. The current status per the Ecology website is that there is petroleum in the
groundwater classified as “Confirmed above cleanup levels.” The tank is located
adjacent to the trash enclosure area at the south end of the building.
Hazen High School is identified as being located within the Asarco Tacoma Smelter
Site for which cleanup has started. The area is identified on the Department of
Ecology Tacoma Smelter Plume map as having a predicted arsenic concentration
under 20 ppm, which is under MTCA cleanup levels.
2. Describe existing hazardous chemicals/conditions that might affect project
development and design. This includes underground hazardous liquid and gas
transmission pipelines located within the project area and in the vicinity.
There are no pipelines located within the project area or vicinity. However, Hazen
High School does have a 10,000-gallon underground oil tank as a back-up for its
boiler. The tank will be closed in place with this proposal.
3. Describe any toxic or hazardous chemicals that might be stored, used, or produced
during the project's development or construction, or at any time during the
operating life of the project.
The proposal does not involve the storage or use of toxic or hazardous chemicals,
beyond what is necessary for the construction of the project.
4. Describe special emergency services that might be required.
No additional emergency services will be required for this project.
5. Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any.
The petroleum contamination will be cleaned up with this proposal in accordance
with Ecology requirements. Evaluation of the contamination and development of a
cleanup plan is currently in process and will be coordinated with Dept. of Ecology.
Any asbestos-containing materials that would be affected by construction will first
be abated in accordance with the applicable local, state and federal regulations. Any
construction work impacting lead-containing paint will be performed according to
Washington State Department of Labor & Industries regulations. Any fluorescent
lights will be carefully recycled or disposed of in accordance with L&I regulations.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 13
(WAC 197-11-960)
During construction, all required precautionary measures to ensure a safe work
environment will be employed. No additional measures to reduce or control
environmental health hazards are proposed beyond what is required by the local
regulatory environment.
b. Noise
1. What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example:
traffic, equipment, operation, other)?
This is primarily residential area, with local streets, which do carry traffic, and some
vehicle noise may be in the area.
2. What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated with the project
on a short-term or a long-term basis (for example: traffic, construction, operation,
other)? Indicate what hours noise would come from the site)?
The operation of trucks and excavators are likely to cause an increase in noise levels
and vibrations during construction. Installation of the geothermal wells will also
cause noise and vibration during construction.
3. Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
Construction activities will be completed in accordance with the City of Renton
requirements. Following construction, the renovated fields can be expected to have
extended usability in the winter months, which will likely cause additional noise
associated with the field usage similar to what occurs during the summer and fall
months when the weather and natural lighting have allowed for extended use. The
activities will end before 10 pm each evening.
No measures are proposed to reduce noise impacts, as noise levels are expected to
return to existing or near existing levels after construction is complete.
8. Land and shoreline use
a. What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties? Will the proposal affect
current land uses on nearby or adjacent properties? If so, describe.
The site is the location of the existing Hazen High School campus, located on
approximately 33.3 acres. The original portion of the building was constructed in 1969,
with an expansion that opened in 2001, and an addition built in 2012. The site also
includes parking, two baseball/ softball fields, a football field, a track, and four tennis
courts.
Most of the surrounding area is single family homes, with a few apartment buildings,
and the area is zoned R-8. There is a portion of commercial zoning to the west of the
football field on the north side of the site of the lot along Duvall Ave NE and NE Sunset
Blvd, but the current use is as multi-family, garden style apartments. Directly to the west
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along the opposite side of Duvall Ave NE, Hilltop Heritage Elementary School was
recently (August 2023) completed. There is one church property between the school
building and the tennis courts/ athletic fields that totals a little over an acre.
This proposal is for modernizations, seismic upgrades and a new geothermal system.
This project is not expected to change the use, the number of students or faculty or the
environmental threats from the current use.
b. Has the project site been used as working farmlands or working forest lands? If so,
describe. How much agricultural or forest land of long-term commercial significance
will be converted to other uses because of the proposal, if any? If resource lands have
not been designated, how many acres in farmland or forest land tax status will be
converted to nonfarm or nonforest use?
The subject site has not been used as working farm or forest lands.
1. Will the proposal affect or be affected by surrounding working farm or forest
land normal business operations, such as oversize equipment access, the
application of pesticides, tilling, and harvesting? If so, how?
No, the proposal will not affect any farm or forest lands, as there are none in the
area.
c. Describe any structures on the site.
The site has a large two-story, brick High School building, with an attached gym and
pool. There is an interior courtyard in the middle of the original structure. There are/
will be six portables, two of which are meant to be temporary, and four of which were
newly permitted (but not yet installed). Current total square footage of the building is
327,395 sq. ft. Four portable buildings have been permitted but are not yet installed.
They total 7,168 sq. ft.
The King County Assessor describes Hazen High School as being two main structures, the
original masonry building built in 1969 and structural steel & masonry additions built in
2001 and 2012. The existing structures are further described below:
Building Description Main Level
(sq ft)
Upper Level
(sq ft)
Total (sq ft)
BLD-1 Improvements
Commons
Classrooms
6,080
14,796
55,163
-
2,613
145,693
BLD-2 Auditorium
Classrooms
Cafeterria
19,499
25,540
1,829
-
46,868
BLD-3 Gym and Pool 51,230 11,866 63,096
BLD-4 Vocational Ed 24,074 - 24,074
BLD-5 Classrooms 19,473 19,473 38,946
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d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
No structures will be demolished for this project.
e. What is the current zoning classification of the site?
The area of the site in which the project is proposed is zoned Residential-8 with a small
portion of the baseball field on the northwest portion of the site zoned RM-F (multi-
family)
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
The comprehensive plan designation is Residential Medium Density, with the RM-F
portion Residential High Density. That same portion of the site is also in an Urban Design
District B overlay zone.
g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the site?
The site is not within shoreline jurisdiction.
h. Has any part of the site been classified as a critical area by the city or county? If so,
specify.
No portion of the site has been classified as a critical area.
i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project?
The project does not propose a change in the number of people working or residing on
the site.
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
The project will not result in the displacement of people.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any.
No displacement is expected, so no measures are proposed. A phased construction
schedule has been created to avoid displacing any students from the school.
l. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and projected
land uses and plans, if any.
The use and building footprint will remain largely as is, and there will be no increase in
student enrollment or capacity.
New athletic field lighting is proposed for the baseball and multipurpose fields, the
fixtures for which will be LED, full cutoff-type and shielded to protect against light spill
to the surrounding neighborhoods. The use of the fields in the winter months will be
extended into the evening hours and will generate noise associated with the athletic
activities. All athletic practices and events will terminate prior to 10:00 pm.
Total 318,677
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The proposal will comply with the City of Renton zoning regulations and design
standards.
m. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts to agricultural and forest lands of
long-term commercial significance, if any:
None proposed, as no impacts are expected.
9. Housing
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether high,
middle, or low-income housing.
No housing is proposed.
b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether high,
middle, or low-income housing.
No housing units will be eliminated as part of this project.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
None proposed, as no impact to housing are expected.
10. Aesthetics
a. What is the tallest height of any proposed structure(s), not including antennas; what is
the principal exterior building material(s) proposed?
The tallest structure on the site will be the light poles associated with the athletic field
lighting. The pole heights will vary from 60 feet to 80 feet in height.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
The views will be the same as existing other than the addition of 10 new field light poles
with fixtures.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
Existing mature vegetation is currently in place along the west and southwest site
perimeter, which will screen views of the light poles for the residents in that vicinity. No
other measures are proposed or necessary.
11. Light and glare
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would it
mainly occur?
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New field lighting will be added to the multipurpose and baseball fields. The field lights
will be used from dusk until approximately 10 pm.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with
views?
No safety hazards are expected due to light or glare from this proposal. Per the site
lighting analysis prepared by Musco, very limited light spill will occur to the neighboring
properties and in no case is the spill anticipated to be higher than 0.1 footcandles on
adjacent residential property lines. The predicted light spill levels are considered
conservative as the Musco analysis does not factor in adjacent vegetation that often
improves upon the predicted spill levels.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
No off-site sources of light or glare are expected to affect this proposal.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any:
Lighting fixtures will be LED, full cutoff type and shielded to prevent light spillage. The
light fixtures will be calibrated after installation and aimed toward the surface of the
field to achieve the required light values for playability as well as to ensure minimal light
spill to adjacent properties. The field lights will be turned off each evening prior to 10
pm.
12. Recreation
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate
vicinity?
The only recreational opportunities in the immediate vicinity are associated with school
use. In addition to the sports fields and tennis courts at the high school, and the indoor
pool, which is open to the public. There are also three elementary schools within a 1-
mile walk, which all have playfields.
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so, describe.
No, the proposed project would not displace any existing recreational uses. There will
be a temporary disruption in use of the ballfields during construction.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including recreation
opportunities to be provided by the project or applicant, if any:
No proposed measures other than sports program rescheduling and use of other
ballfields that may be required as determined by the Athletic Director
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 18
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13. Historic and cultural preservation
a. Are there any buildings, structures, or sites, located on or near the site that are over 45
years old listed in or eligible for listing in national, state, or local preservation registers?
If so, specifically describe.
According to WISAARD mapping and the National Register of Historic Places, there are
no buildings, structures or landmarks listed or eligible for preservation. The DAHP
Predictive Model of Risk for Cultural Resources, identifies the site as Moderately Low
risk for containing archaeological sites and cultural resources.
The Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP)
Washington Information System for Architectural and Archaeological Records Data
(WISAARD) online database identified several properties within 0.25 miles of the site,
nine (9) properties to the west of the site ‘determined not eligible’ and one property to
the south of the site with ‘no determination’.
b. Are there any landmarks, features, or other evidence of Indian or historic use or
occupation? This may include human burials or old cemeteries. Are there any material
evidence, artifacts, or areas of cultural importance on or near the site? Please list any
professional studies conducted at the site to identify such resources.
Although the entire Puget Sound region and beyond are historic Native American
territory, WISAARD did not identify any potentially culturally important sites near the
project site.
c. Describe the methods used to assess the potential impacts to cultural and historic
resources on or near the project site. Examples include consultation with tribes and the
department of archeology and historic preservation, archaeological surveys, historic
maps, GIS data, etc.
The proposal utilized the Washington Information System for Architectural and
Archaeological Records Data (WISAARD) online database to assess potential impacts to
cultural and historic resources on and near the project site.
d. Proposed measures to avoid, minimize, or compensate for loss, changes to, and
disturbance to resources. Please include plans for the above and any permits that may
be required.
No disturbance to cultural or historical resources is expected. The Washington State
Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation will be notified if any cultural or
archeological objects are found during the site development work. If cultural or
archaeological resources are found, then all site work will stop until Washington State
Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation provides guidance.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 19
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14. Transportation
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site or affected geographic area and
describe proposed access to the existing street system. Show on site plans, if any.
The primary existing vehicular access to the site is from the east via four (4) driveways
from Hoquiam Ave NE, a two-way paved minor arterial street that runs north-south.
One two-way driveway is located on the north part of the site close to the intersection
of NE 12th Street and Hoquiam Avenue NE. An egress only driveway exits onto NE 11th
Court, with the remaining two driveways being located on the south third of the site.
Secondary vehicular access to the site is from the southeast vie NE 10th Street, a two-
way, paved local street that runs east-west. Both streets have a posted speed limit of 25
MPH. Pedestrian access to the site is provided from sidewalks along Hoquiam Ave NE
and NE 10th Street. There are additional pedestrian access points at NE 12th Street and
NE 10th Street on the northwest and southeast points of the site. There are no proposed
changes to access as part of this proposal.
b. Is the site or affected geographic area currently served by public transit? If so,
generally describe. If not, what is the approximate distance to the nearest transit
stop?
There are currently two bus routes within about a mile to the site: Metro Route 240
serving Bellevue, Newcastle and Renton, with a stop at Union Ave NE and NE 12th St,
approximately 0.5 miles northwest of the site and King County Metro Route 105, a local
route from the Renton Highlands to downtown Renton, with stops along Union Ave NE
to the west of Hazen High School. Both come approximately every 30 minutes on
weekdays.
c. Will the proposal require any new or improvements to existing roads, streets,
pedestrian, bicycle, or state transportation facilities, not including driveways? If so,
generally describe (indicate whether public or private).
The proposal will not require any new or improved transportation facilities, as no new
vehicular trips are anticipated.
d. Will the project or proposal use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or
air transportation? If so, generally describe.
The proposed project is not in the immediate vicinity of any water, rail or air
transportation.
e. How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed project or
proposal? If known, indicate when peak volumes would occur and what percentage of
the volume would be trucks (such as commercial and nonpassenger vehicles). What
data or transportation models were used to make these estimates?
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 20
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There are not expected to by any additional trips generated by this proposal. A traffic
analysis is not required for this proposal, since there are no additional students or
faculty. Peak traffic volumes typically occur between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m. and in the
afternoon between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m.
f. Will the proposal interfere with, affect, or be affected by the movement of agricultural
and forest products on roads or streets in the area? If so, generally describe.
No, the proposal will not affect or be affected by the movement of agricultural or forest
products.
g. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any:
No additional transportation impacts are expected, so there are no proposed measures
to reduce or control those impacts.
15. Public services
a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for example: fire
protection, police protection, public transit, health care, schools, other)? If so,
generally describe.
No, there shouldn’t be an increased need for public services associated with this project.
b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any.
No proposed measures to reduce impacts on public services are proposed.
16. Utilities
a. Circle utilities currently available at the site: electricity, natural gas, water, refuse
service, telephone, sanitary sewer, septic system, other:
b. Describe the utilities that are proposed for the project, the utility providing the
service, and the general construction activities on the site or in the immediate vicinity
which might be needed.
Gas and Electric: Puget Sound Energy
Water and Sewer: City of Renton
Refuse Service: Republic Services
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 21
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Signature
The above answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that the
lead agency is relying on them to make its decision.
X
Type name of signee: Lisa Klein, AICP
Position and agency/organization: Associate Principal / AHBL, Inc.
Date submitted: Sept. 19, 2024