HomeMy WebLinkAboutEX_12_C_DUWAMISH_TRIBE_COMMENTS_20251009DUWAMISH TRIBE dxʷdəwʔabš
2025-10-09
City of Renton
PR24-000023 LUA24-000078
Dear Jill Ding,
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Renton Highlands Short Plat to subdivide a
property into six (6) residential lots and two (2) tracts located at Tax Parcel 1123059068 near 5815
NE 8th S 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
Moderate probability to have unknown archaeological deposits. We note that there are 2 place
names within about 2 miles of the project location. The DAHP WISAARD predictive model indicates
that an archaeological survey is recommended with a moderate 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 future
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 future development 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
EXHIBIT 12
Docusign Envelope ID: 6A37E369-83A5-4681-BBCF-E252AC941B41