HomeMy WebLinkAboutC_Duwamish Tribe_Public Comment_251024DUWAMISH TRIBE dxʷdəwʔabš
Oct 24, 2025
City of Renton
PR25-000073 LUA25- 000364
Dear Alex Morganroth ,
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Saleh Foundation Center to construct a new 5-
story, 35,000 square foot mixed-use building located at 4108 and 41XX Jones Ave NE in Renton .
Based on the information provided and our understanding of the project and its APE, the Duwamish
Tribe would recommend an archaeological or cultural resources assessment , 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 H igh probability to have
unknown archaeological deposits. We note that there are at least 2 ancestral place names within
about a mile of the project location. We also note its proximity to May Creek, an important stream
for the Duwamish, Snoqualmie and other tribes in the vicinity. The DAHP WISAARD predictive model
indicates that an archaeological survey is highly advised with a very high 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.
Lastly 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