HomeMy WebLinkAboutC_Duwamish Comments_20250430DUWAMISH TRIBE dxʷdəwʔabš
Apr 29, 2025
City of Renton
PR25-000032 LUA25-000107
Dear Nichole Perry,
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the116th Avenue SE Sidewalk Project to construct sidewalk and
stormwater improvements within the right-of-way of 116th Ave SE, between SE 160th Street and SE 162nd
Street located in Renton. Based on the information provided and our understanding of the project and its APE,
the Duwamish Tribe would recommend an inadvertent discovery plan, especially if any groundbreaking
activity occurs below fill, topsoil or other impervious surfaces into native soil. This is an area that the
Duwamish Tribe considers culturally significant and has a Low probability to have unknown archaeological
deposits. We note that there are 3 place names within about 2 miles of the project location. The DAHP
WISAARD predictive model indicates that an archaeological survey is contingent upon project parameters with
a moderately low risk for encountering cultural resources.
The Duwamish Tribe requests that if any archaeological work or monitoring is performed, we would like
notification. Cultural and archaeological resources are non-renewable and are best discovered prior to ground
disturbance. The Tribe would also like the opportunity to be present if or when an archaeologist is on site.
In addition, the Tribe strongly recommends only native vegetation be used for any proposed landscaping to
enhance habitat for fish and wildlife, and native avian life and native pollinators. The Tribe supports observing
critical area tracts and stream buffers to preserve any remaining wetlands and stream buffers. Loss of wetland
habitat is known to affect the viability of fish, water quality and increase the effects of seasonal urban
flooding.
We also strongly recommend that native trees in the APE, particularly culturally modified trees (CMPs) are
preserved. Mature trees can be of profound cultural significance to the Duwamish Tribe and provide
innumerable benefits for people, climate, and wildlife. If a tree is suspected to be culturally modified, the
Duwamish Tribe would like to be notified and would like the opportunity to come to the site to ensure its
protection.
Finally, we request that any permanent lighting associated with the project be dark sky compliant to reduce
light pollution. Darkened skies were favorable conditions to practice traditional life pathways.
Thank you,
Duwamish Tribal Historic Preservation
Duwamish Tribe | 4705 W. Marginal Way SW, Seattle, WA 98106 | 206-431-1582
www.duwamishtribe.org