HomeMy WebLinkAboutECF_SEPA_Checklist_230828_v1SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) January 2023 Page 1 of 22
SEPA 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.
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A. Background Find help answering background questions
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable:
May Creek Trail South Project
2. Name of applicant:
City of Renton
3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person:
Jason Lederer, Parks Planning Manager. (425) 430-6547. jlederer@rentonwa.gov
City of Renton Parks Planning and Natural Resources Division, 1055 South Grady Way, Renton,
WA 98057.
4. Date checklist prepared:
08/28/2024
5. Agency requesting checklist:
City of Renton
6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
The project is currently at the 60% design phase. King County Noxious Weeds has been actively
managing site invasives species since the spring of 2023. The project construction is anticipated
to start in late spring 2025 and construction completion in fall 2024. The active invasive species
management work through King County will continue through 2029.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or
connected with this proposal? If yes, explain.
Invasive species management and mitigation site monitoring will continue past project
completion. There are no known plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity
associated with the trail in this parcel. There are other ongoing trail projects within the May
Creek Greenspace.
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be
prepared, directly related to this proposal.
Environmental information that has been prepared, or will be prepared includes: Wetlands and
Streams Delineation Report; Davey Resource Group Arborist Report; PanGeo Geotechnical
Report, Mitigation Plan/No Net Loss Report, Project Narrative, and a biological assessment.
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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.
No, no other applications are pending.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
Government approvals or permits needed for the proposal include: Hydraulic Project Approval
(HPA); Shoreline Substantial Development Permit (SSDP); Master Land Use Permit.
11. Give a 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.)
The City of Renton Parks Planning and Natural Resources Division (City) proposes May Creek
Trail South Project (Project), a soft surface trail, pedestrian bridge, and associated frontage
improvements at the May Creek Greenway in Renton, Washington. The proposed soft surface
trail will be one-quarter mile in length, consisting of an approximate 6 ft width trail with 1 ft
shoulders at existing grade with two spurs (Spur 1 and Spur 2) leading to viewing areas,
boardwalk portions at wetland crossings, and will tie into an existing trail on the north side of
the creek. The bridge will be approximately 100 ft length, approximately 8 ft width, and will
cross May Creek at the eastern portion of the site. The trail is designed to be a Trail Class 4 to
meet the existing classification and both the trail and bridge will conform to the Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA). Frontage improvements are required and consist of the addition of
sidewalks to the eastern side of Lake Washington Boulevard, storm drainage improvements,
and the realignment of the roadway to allow for the placement of the sidewalks.
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 Project is located in the City of Renton at May Creek between I-405 and Lake Washington Boulevard
North, in T24N R5W S32.
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B. Environmental Elements
1. Earth Find help answering earth questions
1. General description of the site:
The project site is located in May Creek Park at May Creek, a freshwater waterbody. Topographically, the
south side of the site is an east-west slope at approximately 8:1 slope on the south end of the parcel with
a flat section near May Creek. The northern portion is a relatively flat floodplain. Most of the site consists
of undeveloped forest and shrub cover outside of the existing trail alignment to the north of May Creek.
Circle or highlight one: Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountainous, other:
2. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
There are isolated sections of 1:1 slopes on the southern side of the creek to the east of the proposed
bridge crossing.
3. 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.
U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) Web Soil Survey
identifies the following soil mapping units within the study area. The following descriptions are excerpted
from the King County Area soil survey:
Alderwood gravelly sandy loam, 8 to 15 percent slopes (AgC) – This soil unit formed from glacial drift and
outwash and is common in Western Washington. The unit is moderately well drained and is typically
used for timber and crop production or wildlife habitat. According to the state Soil Data Access (SDA)
Hydric Soil List, this soil is listed as hydric in King County Area.
Indianola loamy sand, 5 to 15 percent slopes (InC) – This soil unit formed in sandy glacial drift and is
somewhat common in the Puget Sound lowlands. The unit is somewhat excessively well drained and is
typically used for timber and forage production or pastures. According to the state SDA, this soil is listed
as hydric in the King County Area.
Normal sandy loam (No) – This soil unit formed in old alluvium in depressions on glacial till plains and
drainageways. The unit is poorly drained. No capability for timber production, but when drained can be
used for row crops and pasture. According to the state SDA, this soil is listed as hydric in the King County
Area.
4. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If so,
describe.
There are no known indicators or history of unstable soils in the project vicinity. There is some
undercutting of banks from May Creek along the parcel from high flows and natural channel migration.
5. Describe the purpose, type, total area, and approximate quantities and total affected area of any
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) August 2024 Page 5 of 22
filling, excavation, and grading proposed. Indicate source of fill.
Filling, excavation, and grading is required to construct the trail, install the bridge abutments, and
regrade for the sidewalks on Lake Washington Boulevard North. Fill will be imported clean borrow
material. Approximately 260 CY of cut and approximately 200 CY of fill are required.
6. Could erosion occur because of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally describe.
Erosion will not occur because of clearing, construction, or use. Rough and fine grading for the trail are
intended to stabilize the trail. Excavated material for the trail and bridge abutments will be removed
from the site. There will be energy dissipation at the new stormwater outfall and trailside ditches. TESC
measures will be in place during construction to reduce the potential for erosion.
7. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project
construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
The trail and bridge will increase impervious surfaces at the site by 7,100 SF or approximately 2% of the
approximately 8-acre site.
The roadway improvements will increase the impervious surface along the roadway ROW by 650 SF.
8. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if any.
Temporary erosion and sediment controls including straw wattles, stabilized construction entrance, and
a high visibility construction fence will be installed during construction.
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2. Air Find help answering air questions
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.
Emissions from construction equipment including a truck mounted crane, mini-excavator, trucks, dump
truck, and personal vehicles would occur during construction. Emissions from maintenance equipment
may occur once the trail is constructed, but would likely not increase beyond the emissions generated by
the existing annual May Creek Trail maintenance activities.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal? If so,
generally describe.
No, off-site sources of emissions will not effect the proposal.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any.
No measures are proposed; the project will minimize the construction duration and air quality impacts
are anticipated to be insignificant.
3. Water Find help answering water questions
a. Surface Water: Find help answering surface water questions
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.
Yes, the site is located at May Creek and four (4) wetlands are located in the project vicinity delineated by
WSP in 2022 and 2023 and outlined in the Wetlands and Streams Delineation Report. The wetlands are
labeled Wetland A, Wetland B, Wetland C, and Wetland D. May Creek is a perennial stream that
meanders through the site and varies in width, approximately 15-30 ft wide. May Creek discharges into
Lake Washington approximately 1,800 ft downstream.
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.
Yes, the project will require work over May Creek and Wetland C and all work will be within 200 ft of the
described waters. A 100 ft by 8 ft bridge with grated decking and bridge abutements will be constructed
to span May Creek. The abutments will be located above the ordinary high water mark (OHWM), 100-
year floodplain, and floodway. Two (2) sections of boardwalk trail will be installed to cross Wetland C for
a total of an approximate 180 ft by 6 ft crossing. This boardwalk section will be supported by micropiles
and the surface will be grated decking. 60% design plans were submitted along with this SEPA Checklist.
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.
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No cut or fill will occur in site wetlands or waters as part of the trail. Minor cut/fill will be associated with
the proposed riparian plantings intended as mitigation and out of kind restoration of the project area.
4. Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions? Give a general description,
purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
The proposal does not require any surface water withdrawals or diversions.
5. Does the proposal lie within a 100-year floodplain? If so, note location on the site plan.
The proposed action will involve minimal work within the 100-year floodplain – an approximately 50 ft
length of trail Spur 2 and temporary construction staging will be located within the 100-year floodplain.
All other work is located above the 100-year floodplain. No excess cut/fill will be removed/placed into
the flooplain from existing conditions.
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.
The project does not involve any discharges of waste materials to surface waters.
The following minimization measures and best management practices (BMPs) will be employed during
construction to minimize project impacts:
1. Corrective actions will be taken in the event of any discharge of oil, fuel, or chemicals into the
water, including the following.
1. Containment and cleanup efforts will begin immediately upon discovery of the spill and be
completed in an expeditious manner in accordance with all local, state, and federal
regulations. Spill response will take precedence over normal work. Cleanup will include
proper disposal of any spilled material and used cleanup material.
2. The cause of the spill will be ascertained and appropriate actions taken to prevent further
incidents or environmental damage.
3. Spills will be reported to the Washington State Department of Ecology’s (Ecology)
Northwest Regional Spill Response Office at 425-649-7000.
2. Excess or waste materials will not be disposed of or abandoned waterward of the OHWM or
allowed to enter waters of the state. Waste materials will be disposed of in an appropriate
manner consistent with applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
b. Ground Water: Find help answering ground water questions
• 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.
No, groundwater will not be withdrawn.
• 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.).
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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.
No waste material will be discharged into the ground from septic tanks or other sources.
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.
Storm water sheet flow from Lake Washington Blvd N will flow half to the west (~0.10cfs) and half to the
east (~0.13cfs). The sheet flow that heads west will be channelized in a wide vegetated swale, then
through a pipe culvert and then to another wide vegetated swale. This sheet flow will partially infiltrate
into the native soils within the swale and partially discharge into May Creek. On the southern side of the
trail east east of the roadway, the sheet flow from Lake Washington Boulevard N will be captured in a
vegetated swale and routed in a 12” pipe to be discharged into the trail parcel into an existing wetland,
which flows towards May Creek. To the north of the trail entrance on the east side of the roadway, the
runoff from Lake Washington Boulevard N will be captured and conveyed under the sidewalk to an
outfall just uphill of Wetland A
Storm water from the trail parcel will sheet flow from the steep slopes at the southern portion of the site
and will be captured in a ditch before the sheet flow reaches the trail. From the ditch, the water will
either be dispersed at the end of the ditch (~0.25cfs) or will be captured in a culvert (~0.3 cfs) and carried
under the trail to be dispersed on the other side of the trail. The trail has been graded with a 2% cross
slope so that runoff from the trail will sheet flow off the trail to infiltrate into the surrounding native soils
and sheet flow into May Creek. The boardwalk trail section and bridge are designed to have slatted
decking to allow for drainage. In these locations, storm water will infiltrate into the native soils below.
2. Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe.
The project does not involve any discharges of waste materials to ground or surface waters.
The following minimization measures and best management practices (BMPs) will be employed during
construction to minimize project impacts:
• Corrective actions will be taken in the event of any discharge of oil, fuel, or chemicals into the
water, including the following.
o Containment and cleanup efforts will begin immediately upon discovery of the spill and be
completed in an expeditious manner in accordance with all local, state, and federal
regulations. Spill response will take precedence over normal work. Cleanup will include
proper disposal of any spilled material and used cleanup material.
o The cause of the spill will be ascertained and appropriate actions taken to prevent further
incidents or environmental damage.
o Spills will be reported to the Washington State Department of Ecology’s (Ecology)
Northwest Regional Spill Response Office at 425-649-7000.
• Excess or waste materials will not be disposed of or abandoned waterward of the OHWM or
allowed to enter waters of the state. Waste materials will be disposed of in an appropriate
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) August 2024 Page 9 of 22
manner consistent with applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
3. Does the proposal alter or otherwise affect drainage patterns in the vicinity of the site? If so,
describe.
Yes, the proposal alters the drainage pattern in the footprint of the soft trail and boardwalk trail
section. The soft trail sections will have a 2% cross slope to allows for drainage, and the surface runoff
will infiltrate into the surrounding native soils. On a site-wide scale, there will not be a significant
change to the existing drainage pattern.
4. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water, and drainage pattern
impacts, if any.
The proposed May Creek Trail South has been aligned to avoid wetland impact where possible. Where
excavation or grading is required near wetlands or May Creek, Erosion and Sediment Control (ESC)
measures including straw wattles, silt fence, a temporary stabilized construction entrance, and high
visibility construction fencing will be installed to reduce runoff water and drainage pattern impacts.
4. Plants Find help answering plants questions
1. 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
☐ water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
☒ other types of vegetation
Vegetation throughout the site is dominated by invasive vegetation with interspersed native vegetation.
The overstory consists of Douglas’ fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla),
bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum), red alder (Alnus rubra), black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera), and
western red cedar (Thuja plicata), and an understory of Pacific willow (Salix lasiandra), Sitka willow (Salix
sitchensis), evergreen huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum), western skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus),
lady fern (Athyrium felix-femina), western common horsetail (Equisetum arvense) and non-native
Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) and Japanes/Bohemian knotweed (Reynoutria bohemica).
The vegetation within the wetland areas include Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus/bifrons),
hybrid Japanese knotweed (Fallopia bohemica), Pacific/Sitka willow (Salix lasiandra/sitchensis), western
skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus), lady fern (Athyrium cyclosorum), western common horsetail
(Equisetum arvense), red alder (Alnus rubra), black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera), and western red
cedar (Thuja plicata).
2. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
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Approximately 3.4 acres of existing invasive vegetation will be removed from the project site.
Temporary and permanent impacts to vegetation from the trail project are from clearing, excavating,
and filling. Construction of the proposed Project will directly impact one identified wetland and
associated wetland vegetation. The native vegetation removed/altered from the trail include
Pacific/Sitka willow (Salix lasiandra/sitchensis), western skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus), lady fern
(Athyrium cyclosorum), western common horsetail (Equisetum arvense), red alder (Alnus rubra), black
cottonwood (Populus balsamifera), and western red cedar (Thuja plicata).
The mitigation and riparian restoration will remove/alter the invasive species infestation throughout
the approximately 3.28 acre area. The vegetation removal will consist of Himalayan blackberry (Rubus
armeniacus/bifrons), hybrid Japanese knotweed (Fallopia bohemica), portuguese laurel (Prunus
luscitanica), among others.
3. List threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
No known threatened or endangered plant species are known to be present.
4. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or enhance vegetation
on the site, if any.
The impacts of the proposed project are fully mitigated through on-site actions. On site mitigation
activities will generate approximately 0.48 acres of mitigation credits via enhancement of the wetlands
and riparian buffers through invasive species management and the planting of native trees, shrubs, and
herbaceous vegetation.
Currently, the entire site is covered in infestations of Himalayan blackberry (Rubus bifrons), hybrid
knotweed (Fallopia x bohemica), English ivy (Hedera helix), English holly (Ilex aquifolium), Portuguese
laurel (Prunus lusitanica), among others. The City of Renton has partnered with King County Healthy
Lands Project to develop a multi-year management plan to remove, treat, and manage these species.
Additionally, the City of Renton will have ongoing maintenance plans post-construction to manage
invasives on-site into the future.
The City will replant native vegetation over disturbed uplands and wetlands post invasive species
management and before and during the construction of the project. Planting will include native bare-
root trees and shrubs installed through small excavations dug by hand. All plants will be sourced locally
and be from stocks native to the Puget Sound lowlands. Plant materials will generally be in 1- to 5-
gallon containers or live stakes, but bare-root stock may be selected depending on timing and
availability.
Plants that may be selected for the mitigation are listed below:
Table 2. Mitigation Plant Species
Scientific Name Common Name Size Spacing % Cover
Live Stakes
Salix sitchensis Sitka willow Live stakes 3 feet on center 50
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Scientific Name Common Name Size Spacing % Cover
Salix scouleriana Scouler’s willow Live stakes 3 feet on center 50
Sandy Loam Floodplain Bench
Pseudotsuga
menziesii
Douglas’ fir 5-gallon container 4 feet on center 40
Picea sitchensis Sitka spruce 5-gallon container 4 feet on center 20
Abies grandis Grand fir 5-gallon container 4 feet on center 20
Acer macrophyllum Big leaf maple 5-gallon container 4 feet on center 20
Symphoricarpos albus Snowberry 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 15
Oemeleria
cerasiformis
Osoberry 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 15
Acer circinatum Vine maple 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 20
Corylus cornuta Beaked hazelnut 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 20
Mahonia aquifolium Tall Oregon grape 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 15
Polystichum munitum Sword fern 1-gallon container 3 feet on center 100
Wetland Restoration
Populus balsamifera Black cottonwood 5-gallon container 3 feet on center 50
Alnus rubra Red alder 5-gallon container 3 feet on center 50
Salix sitchensis Sitka willow Live stakes 2-4 feet on center 20
Salix lasiandra Pacific willow Live stakes 2-4 feet on center 20
Cornus sericea Red-Osier Dogwood 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 20
Rubus spectabilis Salmonberry 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 20
Physocarpus capitatus Pacific ninebark 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 20
Wetland C Seasonally Inundated Bench
Salix lasiandra Pacific willow Live stakes 3 feet on center 25
Salix sitchensis Sitka willow Live stakes 3 feet on center 25
Fraxinus latifolia Oregon ash Live stakes/2-gallon
containers
3 feet on center 20
Cornus alba/sericea Red twig dogwood Live stakes 3 feet on center 20
Oplopanax horridus Devils’ Club 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 10
Upland Forest
Pseudotsuga
menziesii
Douglas Fir 5-gallon container 8 feet on center 30
Tsuga heterophylla Western Hemlock 5-gallon container 8 feet on center 30
Picea sitchensis Sitka Spruce 5-gallon container 8 feet on center 20
Acer macrophyllum Bigleaf Maple 5-gallon container 8 feet on center 20
Acer circinatum Vine Maple 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 5
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) August 2024 Page 12 of 22
Scientific Name Common Name Size Spacing % Cover
Corylus cornuta Beaked Hazelnut 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 10
Rosa nutkana Nootka rose 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 15
Gaultheria shallon Salal 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 15
Amelanchier anifolia Serviceberry 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 5
Vaccinium ovatum Evergreen huckleberry 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 15
Oemeleria
cerasiformis
Osoberry 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 10
Ribes sanguinieum Red flowering currant 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 5
Lonicera involucrata Black twinberry 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 5
Physocarpus capitatus Pacific ninebark 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 5
Mahonia aquifolium Tall Oregon grape 2-gallon container 2-4 feet on center 10
Polystichum munitum Sword fern 1-gallon container 3 feet on center 100
5. List all noxious weeds and invasive species known to be on or near the site.
Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus), hybrid Japanese knotweed (Fallopia bohemica), English ivy
(Hedera helix), English holly (Ilex aquifolium), tansy ragwort (Jacobea vulgaris), Portuguese laurel (Prunus
lusitanica), reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea), bull thistle (Cirsium vulgare), cherry laurel (Prunus
laurocerus), butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii), and common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
5. Animals Find help answering animal questions
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:
1. Birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds, other:
There has been reports of over 151 unique bird species identified at the nearby Barbee Mill Site
according to eBird reports in the area (linked here: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L20831153/bird-
list?yr=curM&rank=lrec). Common occurrences are crows, Canada goose, red-winged blackbird, various
swallows, finches, hummingbirds, and juncos.
2. Mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other:
Deer were observed on the site during site activities and beaver signs (gnaw marks on trees) were noted.
3. Fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other:
Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawyscha), Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Coho salmon
(Oncorhynchus kisutch), Cutthroat (Oncorhynchus clarki), and Sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka)
are known to occur in May Creek according to the SWIFD database managed by NWIFC.
b. List any threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawyscha) and Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss).
SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) August 2024 Page 13 of 22
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
The site may be part of a migratory route for Chinook and Steelhead. Chinook may be found breeding in
the action area and migrating through the action area toward Puget Sound in fall months during the fall
run. Steelhad may be found resting in the action area during the winter run mitgration.
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any.
No in-water work is proposed. The project is intended to enhance the riparian functions and public
access to May Creek Park, increasing limiting functions in the May Creek watershed and providing
additional public awareness of this wildlife corridor.
e. List any invasive animal species known to be on or near the site.
New Zealand mudsnails are known to occur in May Creek.
6. Energy and Natural Resources Find help answering energy and natural resource questions
1. 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.
Fuel use from construction equipment including a crane, excavator, bobcat, truck, dump truck, and
personal vehicles would occur during construction. Fuel use from maintenance equipment may occur
once the trail is constructed, but would likely not increase beyond the fuel consumption of the existing
annual May Creek Trail maintenance activities.
2. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties? If so, generally
describe.
No adjacent solar use would not be affected.
3. 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.
No energy conservation features are included. This project is a soft surface trail with boardwalk
sections and a bridge for enhancement of May Creek Park.
7. Environmental Health Find help with answering environmental health questions
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.
Probabilty of environmental health hazards occurring due to the proposal is minimal.
The following minimization measures and BMPs will be employed during construction to
minimize project impacts:
• The contractor will prepare a spill prevention, control, and countermeasures (SPCC)
plan, and it will be used during all construction operations. A copy of the plan with
any updates will be maintained at the work site.
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o The SPCC plan will outline BMPs, responsive actions in the event of a spill or
release, and notification and reporting procedures. The plan will also outline
management elements, such as personnel responsibilities, project site
security, site inspections, and training.
o The SPCC plan will outline the measures to prevent the release or spread of
hazardous materials found on site or encountered during construction but
not identified in contract documents, including any hazardous materials that
are stored, used, or generated on site during construction. These items
include, but are not limited to, gasoline, diesel fuel, oils, and chemicals.
o Applicable spill response equipment and material designated in the SPCC
plan will be maintained at the job site.
• Corrective actions will be taken in the event of any discharge of oil, fuel, or
chemicals into the water, including the following:
o Containment and cleanup efforts will begin immediately upon discovery of
the spill and be completed in an expeditious manner in accordance with all
local, state, and federal regulations. Spill response will take precedence over
normal work. Cleanup will include proper disposal of any spilled material and
used cleanup material.
o The cause of the spill will be ascertained and appropriate actions taken to
prevent further incidents or environmental damage.
o Spills will be reported to the Washington State Department of Ecology’s
(Ecology) Northwest Regional Spill Response Office at 425-649-7000.
• Excess or waste materials will not be disposed of or abandoned waterward of the
OHWM or allowed to enter waters of the state. Waste materials will be disposed of
in an appropriate manner consistent with applicable local, state, and federal
regulations.
• Oil-absorbent materials will be present on site to use in the event of a spill or if any
oil product is observed in the water.
Describe any known or possible contamination at the site from present or past uses.
No contamination from present or past uses is known at the site. Just downstream (west of the
site) was the historical Barbee Mill Site.
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.
No hazardous chemicals are known to affect the project.
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.
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No toxic or hazardous chemicals are known to be stored, used, or produced during the
projects development or construction other than fuels used in equipment. Minimization
measures and BMPs will be employed during construction to minimize project impacts.
Describe special emergency services that might be required.
No special emergency services will be required.
Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any.
The Minimization measures and BMPs described in Section 7a will be employed during construction to
minimize project impacts.
b. Noise
What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example:
traffic, equipment, operation, other)?
The project is located between I-405 and Lake Washington Boulevard which generate typical traffic
background noise.
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 table below provides a list of the standard construction equipment that will be required during
construction, and the maximum terrestrial noise levels anticipated:
Equipment Purpose
Maximum Terrestrial Noise
Level
(dBA at 50 feet)
Air
Compressors Pneumatic Equipment 70
Dump Trucks Earthwork and Grading 76
Excavators Earthwork and Grading 81
Micro Pile
Driving Anchor Installation 85
Air Hammer Anchor Installation 85
The greatest noise will be produced by the simultaneous use of excavators, pile installation methods, and
an air hammer. Using the rules for decibel addition, the peak terrestrial noise level of 85 decibels (dBA)
generated by the air hammer and pile driving would be increased by 2 dBA. Therefore, the peak
terrestrial noise generated during project construction, would be approximately 87 dBA.
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Distance
from source (ft)
Construction Noise in dBA
(Point Source, Soft Site)
(-7.5 dBA reduction per doubling of
distance)
50 87
100 79.5
200 72
400 64.5
800 57
The project site is bordered by Interstate 405 (I-405) to the east and bordered by Lake Washington
Boulevard N and dense neighborhood to the west. WSDOT’s Annual Traffic Report 2016 estimates traffic
levels on I-405 at approximately 6,208 vehicles per hour. Using a more conservative estimate of 6,000
vehicles per hour at the given speed limit of 60 mph, ambient noise levels from traffic at the project site
are estimated at 63.2 dB at 50 feet. Soft site conditions were assumed for noise attenuation purposes
because most of the surrounding landscape consists of ground cover.
Based on the noise attenuation assumptions described above, terrestrial noise from construction is
expected to attenuate to the ambient level of approximately 63.2 dBA (estimated ambient noise level of
adjacent traffic) within between approximately 400 and 800 feet from the location of project activities.
In the long term, there is no anticipated change from the existing noise levels at the site.
Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any.
Construction may only occur during the hours of 7:00AM through 8:00PM during week days for the
duration of the project.
8. Land and Shoreline Use Find help answering land and shoreline use questions
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 existing land use at the project site is as a greenway. May Creek Greenway is publicly
accessed City owned land. May Creek Trail exists north of May Creek and this project will install
a May Creek Trail South alignment that will connect to the northern trail. The proposal meets
the existing land use and does not affect adjacent properties.
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?
No, the project site has not been used as working farmland.
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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, there is no surrounding working farmland to affect the project.
Describe any structures on the site.
There are no existing structures at the site.
Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
No structures will be demolished.
What is the current zoning classification of the site?
The site is classified as R-6, Residential 6 DU/Acre
What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
The current comprehensive plan updated by Ordinance #6029 effective 10/27/2021 is COR, Commercial
Office Residential.
If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the site?
It is an Urban Conservancy designation.
Has any part of the site been classified as a critical area by the city or county? If so, specify.
Yes, May Creek, the wetlands, floodway/floodplain, riparian buffers, and steep slopes have been
designated as critical areas.
Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project?
Zero.
Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
Zero.
Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any.
Not Applicable.
Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and projected land
uses and plans, if any.
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Not Applicable.
Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts to agricultural and forest lands of long-term
commercial significance, if any.
Not Applicable.
9. Housing Find help answering housing questions
Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-
income housing.
Not Applicable.
Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether high,
middle, or low-income housing.
Not Applicable.
Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any.
Not Applicable.
10. Aesthetics Find help answering aesthetics questions
What is the tallest height of any proposed structure(s), not including antennas; what is the
principal exterior building material(s) proposed?
Tallest proposed structure is the bridge which would be approximately 10 feet high at the
southern footing.
What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
No, tallest proposed structure is a 3 ft hand rail for the bridge and/or trail.
Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any.
No measures proposed as aesthetics are not impacted.
11. Light and Glare Find help answering light and glare questions
What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would it mainly occur?
No light or glare will be produced by the proposal. The bridge will be aluminum but light
reflection from the aluminum rails will be insignificant.
Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with views?
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No, light or glare will not be significant.
What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
No significant light or glare exists adjacent to the site.
Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any.
No measures proposed as light and glare is not impacted.
12. Recreation Find help answering recreation questions
What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate vicinity?
The existing land use at the project site is as a publicly accessed City owned park intended for
public recreation.
Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so, describe.
No, the proposed project will enhance and increase existing recreational uses by way of
additional trails and access to the May Creek Park.
Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including recreation opportunities
to be provided by the project or applicant, if any.
No measures proposed as the project enhance and increase existing recreational uses.
13. Historic and Cultural Preservation Find help answering historic and cultural preservation
questions
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.
No buildings or structures are located on or near the site. The site was a historic homestead
site.
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.
Washington Department of Archaology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) WISAARD mapping
tool does not list any known landmarks, features, or other evidence of Indian or historic use or
occupation. A structure located north of the project site on an adjacent parcel has been
Determined Not Eligible.
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.
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DAHP WISAARD mapping tool does not list any known landmarks, features, or other evidence of
Indian or historic use or occupation. A consultation has been initated with DAHP and a formal survey
will be completed as required as part of the King County Levy Grant for the Project.
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 conservation measures have been proposed but will be implemented if the surveys identify any
resources exist on the site.
14. Transportation Find help with answering transportation questions
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.
Lake Washington Blvd N is the public street serving the site for access. There will be a sidewalk
built along a portion of the roadway frontage as part of this proposal.
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?
The site is currently not served by public transit – there is no public transit stop on Lake
Washington Blvd N. The nearest public transit stop is located on N 30th St, approximately 0.5
miles south of the site.
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).
Yes, the proposal requires frontage improvements and will create new sidewalks along the eastern side
of Lake Washington Boulevard North that will be publically accessible. The roadway will also maintain
existing bike lanes on the roadway.
Will the project or proposal use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or air
transportation? If so, generally describe.
No, the proposal will not use or occur in the vicinity of water, rail, or air transportation.
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?
The completion of May Creek Trail south will increase local pedestrian traffic to May Creek Park, but is
unlikely to have a significant effect on vehicular travel above existing levels in the long term.
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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.
Not Applicable.
Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any.
No measures proposed as transportation will not be affected.
15. Public Services Find help answering public service questions
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, the project will not result in increased need for public services.
Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any.
No measures proposed as public services will not be affected.
16. Utilities Find help answering utilities questions
Circle utilities currently available at the site: electricity, natural gas, water, refuse service,
telephone, sanitary sewer, septic system, other:
There is existing water lines and overhead electrical lines along the roadway ROW of the parcel.
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.
Temporary irrigation will rely upon the existing water lines but no permanent utilities are
proposed as part of the project. A power pole will need to be relocated as part of the
project by PSE.
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C. Signature Find help about who should sign
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: Jason Lederer
Position and agency/organization: Parks Planning Manager at the City of Renton
Date submitted: 8/28/2024