HomeMy WebLinkAboutEx_27_Modified MDNS.pdf
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SEPA MODIFIED MITIGATED DETERMINATION OF
NONSIGNIFICANCE (MDNS)
Renton High School Replacement and Site Expansion (SEPA Phase 3)
This MDNS has been modified in response to comments received on the proposal. All
changes are shown in bold underlined text.
Proponent and Lead Agency: Renton School
District (RSD)
The official project file containing the SEPA
checklist and related plans and documents is
available for public review during normal
business hours at the following location:
Contact: Matthew Feldmeyer
Executive Director of Capital Planning
and Construction
Renton School District
7812 South 124th Street
Seattle, WA 98178
capitalprojects2@rentonschools.us
Phone: (425) 204-4403
Description of Proposal: The new Renton High School (RHS) campus will expand to the north
and east of the historic Renton High School campus. The Renton School District (RSD) recently
acquired 42 parcels (see below) adjacent to the RHS campus in order to facilitate site expansion
and the shifting of the buildings and taller structures to the eastern portions of the campus, which
is to avoid affecting the FAA Navigable Airspace for Renton Municipal Airport and comply with
the City’s Airport Height and Use Restrictions. Most of the structures on the newly acquired
parcels are currently under demolition. These parcels add to the size of the RHS campus, which
after dedication of frontages to the City for right of way, will be 33.6 acres.
The proposal will retain the existing 1930s historic high school building, and the interior will be
renovated for RSD/RHS Support uses. The IKEA Performing Arts Center (IPAC) will also be
preserved, while the existing classroom additions, gymnasium, and warehouse will be
demolished. A new, three-story 310,000 SF classroom building will be constructed fronting on
Logan Ave S and S 2nd St. This includes a new gymnasium that will be constructed to the north
of the new classroom portion of the building. Other structures include 960 SF concessions
building, a 4,500 SF storage building and an 810 SF grounds maintenance building, as well as
batting cages for both softball and baseball.
Figure 1: Vicinity Map
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The proposal includes improvements to RHS athletic fields, courts and amenities. It will add a
standard competition size baseball and softball field and a multipurpose football/soccer/lacrosse
practice field in the northern portion of the campus. The fields in this portion of the campus will
have synthetic turf with underdrains and field lighting. The existing multipurpose field located in
the western portion of campus (that currently supports three baseball, one soccer field and
spectator seating) will remain in the same location but will be renovated to provide only practice
track and field facilities with no spectator seating. This field will have a grass infield with
underdrains and will not be lit due to the RMA airspace restrictions. The district is proposing to
add two additional tennis courts, two outdoor half-court basketball courts and three outdoor
pickleball courts that will be available for public use. These facilities will be unlit.
The proposal will provide approximately 476 staff/visitor/student parking spaces and four small
bus spaces. There will be 21 bus parking spaces provided along Logan Ave that can be used
after-hours for 47 standard vehicle parking spaces. Parking for special events can be
accommodated in the northwestern portion of the site for approximately 48 spaces. The proposal
will require a street vacation for a portion of S Tobin St and S Tillicum St. It will also require a
consolidation of all lots that comprise the RHS campus into one lot. The street vacation and lot
consolidation will be processed following PUD approval.
The proposed project would reconfigure access and parking for the overall campus. The
segments of S Tobin St and S Tillicum St between Shattuck Ave S and Logan Ave S are
proposed to be vacated to create a consolidated school property. Access to the campus will be via
an expanded drop-off/pick-up lane on S 2nd St; at S 2nd St near the intersection of Lake Ave S;
at Lake Ave S; and at the intersection of S Tobin St and Shattuck Ave S. School buses will
load/unload in a pullout lane on Logan Ave S.
Students will remain onsite during construction. School capacity will increase from 1,389 to
1,600 students; however, enrollment levels (currently 1,208 students) are not anticipated to
increase in the near-term.
Location of Proposal: The properties comprising the expanded campus are located in Township
23 North, Range 5 East, Section 18, Willamette Meridian, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
Renton Topographic Quadrangle. They are comprised of 44 tax parcels as follows: 722930-
0490; 722930-0515; 722930-0545; 722930-0580; 722930-0595; 722930-0635; 722930-0630;
000720-0043; 000720-0017; 000720-0016; 569600-0190; 569600-0185; 569600-0180; 569600-
0170; 569600-0169; 569600-0165; 569600-0160; 569600-0155; 569600-0150; 569600-0145;
569600-0140; 000720-0167; 000720-0171; 000720-0034; 000720-0035; 000720-0033; 000720-
0036; 000720-0037; 000720-0179; 000720-0038; 000720-0039; 000720-0078; 000720-0079;
000720-0072; 000720-0110; 000720-0108; 000720-0114; 000720-0040; 000720-0127; 000720-
0128; 000720-0041; 000720-0214; 000720-0060; and 380600-0065.
Public and Agency Comments: This SEPA Threshold Determination is based on the public
record, including comments received during the SEPA Checklist and MDNS comment period
via publications and postings conducted by RSD. RSD issued notice of the SEPA Checklist for
comment on Sept. 16, 2025 requesting the submittal of comments by Sept. 30, 2025. Comments
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were received from the WA Dept. of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) and the
City of Renton. The MDNS was issued on November 5, 2025 with the comment period
ending on November 19, 2025. Comments were received from the Duwamish Tribe and the
City of Renton. The comments have been integrated into the findings and mitigation measures.
FINDINGS OF FACT:
1. Earth - The sites where work will occur is flat with less than 5% grade. The site is underlain by
Urban Land (Ur) soils, which are soils that have been modified and filled. Following proposed
demolition, the acquired parcels will be hydroseeded or stabilized with straw depending on site
conditions grading will be limited to sight contouring at areas of backfill until project/site
development. The area is in a high risk seismic hazard area and soils are subject to liquefaction,
which will require mitigation for site work and aggregate pier footings for the buildings.
Approximately 40,000 cubic yards of fill are expected and will be sourced from a City approved
fill source, and 4,900 CY of cut are anticipated. Approximately 74 percent of the completed
project will be impervious (including under-drained athletic fields). Temporary erosion control
measures will be in place to ensure earthwork does not cause erosion impacts. A TESC Plan and
SWPPP will be prepared as part of the construction permit application.
2. Air – Best Management Practices will be employed to minimize dust-related emissions during
construction. New emissions generated by the completed project will be related to vehicle
emissions. Because the school is existing, any increase in vehicle emissions are anticipated to be
low and not significant. If asbestos-containing materials are discovered in the buildings to be
demolished, all city, state and federal regulations will be followed to ensure proper handling and
disposal of those materials to control release to the air.
3. Water – There are no surface water bodies on the site; the Cedar River is approximately 280 feet
northeast of the site. The site does not lie within a 100-year floodplain. After construction, runoff
will be collected and conveyed in underground pipes to stormwater treatment systems and
detention pipe systems before being directed to the city’s stormwater system. Temporary erosion
control measures will be employed during construction and detailed in a Temporary Erosion
Control Plan (TESC). The project will protect water quality by directing runoff from pollution
generating surfaces to manufactured treatment devices. The project design is required to meet
the requirements of the city’s adopted stormwater manual.
4. Plants – The site contains 212 significant trees (both deciduous and evergreen) as well as
variable vegetation typical of an urban landscape. Most of the existing vegetation will be
removed and replaced using native vegetation. Twenty-eight (28) of the significant trees will be
retained. Most of the landmark trees along S 2nd Ave and Airport Way will be retained.
Planting also avoids vegetation that attracts wildlife per FAA regulations. Code-required
perimeter landscape buffers and parking lot landscaping will be provided. In accordance with
RMC 4-4-130(H).10, tree protection fencing, root discovery, and pruning methods will be
employed during construction and any pruning needed for clearance will follow industry standard
practices. The best management practices for tree protection during construction, which are
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detailed in the Tree Retention Report, shall be followed. To compensate for tree removal above
the code-required minimum, and as allowed per RMC 4-4-130(J)4.e, the District will pay an “in-
lieu” fee into the city’s Urban Forestry Program fund.
5. Environmental Health – School operation is not anticipated to generate environmental health
hazards. Due to the age of the buildings to be demolished, they are suspected to contain
hazardous building materials and there may be some underground storage tanks. Hazardous
materials testing will be completed for the structures prior to demolition and the safe handling
and disposal of the materials will follow state and local regulations and the recommendations of
the hazardous materials survey. Underground storage tanks will be removed and disposed of in
compliance with all pertinent regulations. There is known petroleum contamination associated
with the previous removal of an underground storage tank located at 307 Airport Way that is
awaiting cleanup (Cleanup Site ID 9972, Facility Site ID 63618514). The District will follow the
Dept. of Ecology requirements for cleanup.
6. Noise – Temporary, short term noise impacts will occur typical of construction activity. Some
vibration may be felt during geo-pier installation. Construction will be phased beginning in the
summer of 2025 and concluding in fall of 2029. Construction will occur between the hours of
7:00 am and 5:00 pm. Following construction noise levels are anticipated to be similar to existing
and not significant.
7. Land and Shoreline Use – The area in which this project is occurring is part of downtown
Renton, and the current uses in the vicinity range from the existing high school campus to older
single-family homes and large, newer mixed-use buildings. All of the existing structures on the
Renton High School campus will be demolished with the exception of the Main Classroom
Building (1930’s building) and the IKEA Performing Arts Center. The expanded site is
comprised of several zoning districts (Center Downtown, Commercial Arterial and Residential-8
and is within Urban Design Districts A and D, Airspace Protection Zone, and the Downtown
Business District. The property is within a High Seismic Hazard Area and Wellhead Protection
Areas 1 and 2. Employment is expected to remain at current levels in the near term but increase
in the long term to approximately 120 full time and 30 part time staff. Overall, the Campus
expansion has resulted in the displacement of 39 residential units, or approximately 99 people.
Campus expansion related to the SEPA Phase 3 properties has resulted in the displacement of 8
residential units, or approximately 20 people, who were compensated fairly and provided
relocation assistance. The proposal is designed in consideration of the City Center Plan
requirements, including its main entry location at the corner of S 2nd St and Logan Ave S and
wider pedestrian paths and sidewalks are provided.
8. Aesthetics – The new high school building will be approximately 65 feet in height at its highest
point. Building materials will be complementary with the 1930s high school and IKEA
Performing Arts Center buildings and comprised of two blends of masonry bricks, metal panels,
corrugated metal siding and glazing systems including aluminum curtain wall and storefront.
The new athletic fields in the northeast corner of the site will have field lighting with heights
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varying from 46 to 75 feet. No views will be obstructed by the proposal. The site and building
have been designed to meet the City of Renton’s Urban Design District A and D requirements.
9. Light and Glare – Light and glare will generally occur during the early evening hours,
consistent with what is present on the current campus, and what is expected of a similar use. The
buildings, parking lots and pathways will be lit for safety and security after dusk. The athletic
fields will be lit when they are in use from dusk until approximately 10pm during the darker
months of the year. Street/sidewalk lighting will be provided in accordance with city
requirements. Light spill to adjacent rights of way and residential properties is anticipated to be
compliant with RMC 4-6-060.I.3, within acceptable levels and less than 0.09 footcandles. Light
fixtures will be shielded and downcast to minimize light spill. The design and specification for
exterior lighting meets all of the International Dark Sky “Principles for Responsible
Outdoor Lighting”. Field lights will be turned off by 10 pm when in use during the darker
months of the year.
10. Historic and cultural preservation –Most of the structures to be demolished are more than 45
years old. In consultation with DAHP, those on the Renton High School campus were
determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places as a historic district.
The project will retain the oldest and most significant built-environment feature of the campus,
the 1932 main building (as well as the 2003 IKEA PAC). The later additions to the main
building, the gym building, the warehouse and the playfield are to be demolished, which
constitutes an adverse environmental impact under SEPA. In addition, the project will impact the
Moses family homestead archaeological site, which has not been evaluated for listing in the
NRHP. Three other historic-period debris scatters or concentrations that have not been evaluated
for listing in the NRHP, and one historic-period debris scatter that HRA recommended as not
eligible for listing in the NRHP, will also be disturbed by the project.
The RHS campus and acquisition area has been investigated for the presence of archaeological
resources many times as the area is known to be the location of a former channel of the Cedar
River and tribal occupation, as well as a former historic-period homestead. It is also modeled by
the Department of Historic Preservation (DAHP) as being of high risk for discovery of cultural
artifacts. The RHS campus and vicinity have also been extensively modified throughout the
twentieth century with the construction of and modifications to RHS and its associated athletic
fields and infrastructure, as well as development on residential and commercial properties north
and east of the RHS campus.
Studies prepared for the proposal include a Built Environment Inventory Report, and a Cultural
Resources Assessment and two Addendums by Historical Research Associates, Inc. (HRA).
Additional Addendum reports are in process. HRA’s work has identified archaeological sites
within the project’s area of impacts.
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These reports were distributed to area Tribes and the Washington Dept. of Archaeologic and
Historic Preservation (DAHP) for review and comment. The reports document the results of
onsite built environment survey, archaeological survey and archaeological monitoring and
includes recommendations for measures that will be implemented by the District in order to
minimize disturbance to cultural resources. The Duwamish Tribe and the Snoqualmie Tribe of
Indians, at their request, have been and will continue to be invited to observe and monitor all
ground disturbances. An archaeological monitoring and inadvertent discovery plan (MIDP) will
be in place.
The District is considering multiple opportunities to highlight the history and past land use on the
property and in Renton more broadly to mitigate the Project’s impacts on the archaeological sites
and historic built-environment properties within the campus. The District has recently held two
meetings with DAHP and interested Tribes to review potential mitigation measures. Project
changes have been made as a result to minimize impacts by raising the grade and relocating
underground infrastructure on portions of the property. The District will be required to obtain a
DAHP Archaeological Site Alteration and Excavation Permit prior to ground-disturbing activities
for impacts to precontact sites and any NRHP-eligible or potentially eligible historic period
archaeological sites.
11. Transportation – The proposed project would reconfigure access and parking for the overall
campus. The segments of S Tobin St and S Tillicum St between Shattuck and Logan Ave S
would be vacated to create a consolidated school property. Vehicular access is proposed via two
(2) driveways on S 2nd St, one driveway on Lake Ave S and gated/event access at Logan Ave S
and S Tobin St, with pedestrian circulation improved through frontage improvements and off-site
intersection upgrades. School bus load/unload would be relocated to a proposed new curb-side
load zone along the west side of Logan Ave S. All access driveways that currently serve the
existing uses would be absorbed into the expanded site and removed.
The site is served by several King County Metro bus routes and is located approximately 500 feet
from the City Center Parking Garage and Renton Transit Center.
The proposal will make right of way dedications, frontage improvements and replace/install new
accessible curb ramps. Pedestrian actuated Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) or half-
signal will be provided at the intersection of Logan Ave S and S Tobin St.
The traffic analysis detailed in the Transportation Technical Report reflected conditions with the
Renton High School Replacement project complete and increased enrollment to its planned
capacity of up to 1,600 students (a net increase of 211 students compared to the school’s current
enrollment capacity). The proposal at its planned capacity of up to 1,600 students is anticipated to
generate 410 new trips per day (205 in/205 out). The peak volumes would continue to occur in
the morning before classes begin (net increase of 114 trips between 6:45 and 7:45 AM) and in the
afternoon around dismissal (net increase of 72 trips between 1:45 and 2:45 PM). The number of
school buses could increase by 3 to 5 buses. Truck trips will continue to provide food and supply
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deliveries, track pick up and occasional maintenance. School and small trucks represent about 3
to 5 percent of the total daily traffic.
THRESHOLD DETERMINATION: In reaching the Threshold Determination, the
Responsible Official reviewed the completed environmental checklist, environmental
information on file with RSD, City of Renton, and public/agency comments, relying on the
information therein to exercise substantive authority under the Washington State Environmental
Policy Act, pursuant to RCW 43.21C.060. This Mitigated Determination of Nonsignificance
(MDNS) is issued under the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 197-11-350 and pursuant
to the criteria and procedures of WAC 197-11-300 through 197-11-350 and 197-11-390. The
Responsible Official has determined that the proposal does not have a probable significant
adverse impact with adherence to local, state, and federal regulations.
MITIGATION MEASURES:
1. To mitigate and reduce the erosion hazard and potential for off-site sediment transport, the
following recommendations of the geotechnical engineer (see Draft Geotechnical Report
dated Sept. 2025 prepared by AESI, or as updated) shall be followed:
a. Construction activity should be scheduled or phased as much as possible to avoid
earthwork activity during the wet season.
b. The winder performance of the site is dependent on a well-conceived plan for control of
site erosion and stormwater runoff. The site plan should include ground-cover measures
and staging areas. The contractor should be prepared to implement and maintain the
required measures to reduce the amount of exposed ground.
c. TESC elements and perimeter flow control should be established prior to the start of
grading. This should include, but is not limited to, silt fencing, swales with check dams,
rocked construction entrance, etc.
d. During the wetter months of the year, or when significant storm events are predicted
during the summer months, the work area should be stabilized so that if showers occur, it
can receive the rainfall without excessive erosion or sediment transport. The required
measures for an area to be “buttoned-up” will depend on the time of year and the duration
that the area will be left unworked. During the winter months, areas that are to be left
unworked for more than 2 days should be mulched or covered with plastic. During the
summer months, stabilization will usually consist of seal-rolling the subgrade. Such
measures will aid in the contractor’s ability to get back into a work area after a storm
event. The stabilization process also includes establishing temporary stormwater
conveyance channels through work areas to route runoff to the approved
treatment/discharge facilities.
e. Surface runoff and discharge should be controlled during and following development.
Uncontrolled discharge may promote erosion and sediment transport.
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f. Soils that are to be reused around the site should be stored in such a manner as to reduce
erosion from the stockpile. Protective measures may include, but are not limited to,
covering stockpiles with plastic sheeting, or the use of silt fences around stockpile
perimeters.
2. To mitigate the risk of liquefaction-induced settlement, the geotechnical engineer
recommends ground improvements for the building foundation as detailed in their August
2025 Geotechnical Report.
3. During construction, measures shall be applied to limit emissions to the air; which may
include limiting the idling of construction equipment, water sprays to control dust, limiting
vehicle speeds, and general maintenance of construction equipment.
4. Care will be taken during construction to avoid spills or leaks of petroleum-based products or
chemicals used for construction. The contractor will follow due diligence processes to
evaluate and, as necessary, mitigate potential impacts identified. Contractors will be required
to comply with all applicable health and safety regulations, including State of Washington
Department of Labor and Industries General Occupational Health Standards, Chapter 296-62
WAC, and General Safety and Health Standards, Chapter 296-24 WAC.
5. The removal of hazardous building materials requires compliance with asbestos abatement
laws, including Washington Dept. of Labor and Industries requirements, Puget Sound Clean
Air Agency requirements and the recommendations provided in the Hazardous Building
Materials Surveys.
6. If during excavation and construction, soils are found to be contaminated with arsenic, lead,
or other contaminants, extra precaution will be taken to avoid escaping dust, soil, erosion,
and water pollution during grading and site construction. Contaminated soils generated
during site construction shall be managed and disposed of in accordance with state and local
regulations, including the Solid Waste Handling Standards regulation (WAC Chapter 173-
350).
7. Proper cleanup of the contaminated soils associated with Cleanup Site ID 972, Facility Site
ID 63618514 is to be completed in accordance with the requirements of Dept. of Ecology.
8. If Underground Storage Tanks are found, they shall be removed in accordance with Dept. of
Ecology procedures.
9. All imported fill must be clean fill utilizing an approved source.
10. A Construction General Stormwater permit is to be obtained prior to clearing, grading, or
excavation activities.
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11. The field light fixtures are to be shielded, downcast and aimed to the play area to minimize
light spill. Additionally, lighting will be turned off by 10 pm when in use during the darker
months of the year. The design and specification for exterior lighting shall meet all of the
International Dark Sky “Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting”.
12. The following mitigation measures will be implementing to avoid or minimize disturbance to
historic and archaeological resources:
a. If required, the north wall replacement planned for the 1930’s building shall be
undertaken in accordance with the Secretary of Interior Standards for the Treatment of
Historic Properties and National Park Service Brief 14, New Exterior Additions to
Historic Buildings.
b. Additional archaeological work shall be conducted to evaluate historic-period
archaeological sites’ eligibility for listing in the NRHP and assess impacts from the
project. Evaluation of the eligible-for-listing historic period sites and mitigation for
impacts to those resources will occur prior to disturbance.
c. The District will minimize impacts to historic and cultural resources in the vicinity of
known archaeological and historic sites by modifying the grading and drainage plans
to raise ground elevations and relocating, where possible, underground infrastructure.
d. Demolition on the newly acquired (SEPA Phase 3) parcels, the school buildings and
all ground disturbing activities shall proceed with a monitoring and inadvertent
discovery plan (MIDP) in place. The MIDP shall make it clear that no precontact
archaeological resource(s) may be disturbed without a permit from DAHP and that no
historic-period archaeological resource that is eligible for listing in the National
Register of Historic Places (NRHP) may be disturbed without a permit from DAHP.
The MIDP includes explicit expectations for what would make a historic-period site
eligible for listing in the NRHP.
e. In the event that additional cultural materials are identified during ground-disturbing
activities that would change HRA’s interpretation of the historic-period archaeological
sites’ NRHP eligibility, the activities shall be halted to allow HRA’s archaeologists to
evaluate. If determined eligible for listing on the NRHP, a permit from DAHP will be
required to conduct further work within the site(s) boundary.
f. Per their request, the Duwamish Tribe and the Snoqualmie Tribe of Indians shall be
notified prior to ground-disturbing activities so that they can be present when an
archaeologist is onsite. The list of tribes receiving advance notifications may be
expanded at the request of the other tribes.
g. Archaeological survey shall be conducted on the recently-acquired parcels (SEPA
Phase 3 properties) consistent with the Project’s archaeological work plan (McNulty
Perez and Kraemer 2024). Other Addendum reports shall be prepared documenting the
results of the additional study. The results of the additional archaeological survey(s)
will be submitted to DAHP and the Tribes in advance of ground disturbing activities
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on the subject parcels. The recommendations provided by HRA in the future
archaeological reports shall be followed during all soil disturbing activities.
h. The District shall obtain a DAHP Archaeological Site Alteration and Excavation
Permit for impacts to precontact sites and any NRHP-eligible or potentially eligible
historic period sites. No potentially ground disturbing activities are allowed in these
areas, including staging materials, parking vehicles, or using site areas to access other
work locations, until a DAHP permit is acquired. The DAHP Permit shall determine
the mitigation measures required for impacts to archaeological resources, which are
anticipated to include multiple opportunities to highlight the history and past land use
on the property and in Renton more broadly.
i. Comments and mitigation requests provided by the Tribes and/or DAHP during the
required DAHP permit application review, or review of the archaeological studies
shall be addressed. These may be documented in a memorandum of understanding
(MOU) and/or mitigation plan with DAHP and the affected Tribes as part of the
DAHP permit.
13. The following transportation measures have been incorporated into the project for
implementation during construction and prior to school opening.
a. Roadway Network: Frontage Improvements - The City will require frontage
improvements along five adjacent streets as follows:
i. S 2nd St – The project will only provide a dedication for future S 2nd St
improvements that will be made by the City as part of its planned future
roadway improvements in that segment. A waiver will be completed to
exempt the school project from S 2nd St improvements. On-site and north of S
2nd St, the project will provide walkway connections between the automobile
load/unload loop and the school buildings within the site.
ii. Airport Way – A new 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to
the back of the existing curb. The project will construct an 8-foot-wide
sidewalk adjacent to the planting strip.
iii. Shattuck Ave S – New curb and gutter will be installed 15 feet from the
roadway centerline. An 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to
the back of the new curb and a new 5-foot-wide sidewalk will be constructed
adjacent to the planting strip.
iv. S Tobin St–An 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to the
back of the existing curb. The project will construct a new 5-foot-wide
sidewalk adjacent to the planting strip.
v. Lake Ave S – An 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to the
back of the existing curb. The project will construct a new 5-foot-wide
sidewalk adjacent to the planting strip.
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vi. Logan Ave S – The existing roadway pavement 20-feet from roadway
centerline will remain. A new 14-foot-wide roadway pavement section will be
constructed with a new 8-foot-wide school-bus load/unload and parking area.
New curb and gutter will be constructed with a new 12-foot-wide sidewalk
and street trees within grates. The District shall coordinate with King
County Metro prior to any land and or signal changes along Logan Ave
S to mitigate any impacts to transit service.
b. Roadway Network: Off-Site Improvements - In addition to the required frontage
improvements, the project will make off-site improvements at several locations as
follows:
i. S 2nd St / Logan Ave S Intersection –The project will install two new curb ramps
and a new curb-bulb at the northwest corner; two new curb ramps and a new
curb bulb at the northeast corner; ramps at the southeast corner with APS
buttons, and a single curb ramp at the southwest corner.
ii. S Tobin St / Logan Ave S Intersection – The project will construct new curb
bulbs on both sides of Logan Ave S north and south of the S Tobin St
intersection. It will also construct north/south curb ramps for the crosswalk on the
east leg and east/west curb ramps for a new crosswalk on the south leg. The west
leg of the intersection will be constructed as a new school site driveway. The
project will install a pedestrian-activated RRFB, HAWK or half-signal at the
new crosswalk on the south leg the intersection for pedestrian crossings between
the school and the east side of Logan Ave S. The District shall work with the
City staff on the warrants for the appropriate pedestrian crossing
improvement.
iii. Airport Way / Logan Ave S Intersection – The project will construct a new curb
ramp and a curb-bulb at the southwest corner of the intersection. The other
elements of the intersection will remain unchanged.
iv. Airport Way / Shattuck Ave S Intersection – The project will construct a new
curb ramp and curb-bulb at the southeast corner of the intersection. The other
corners of the intersections will remain unchanged.
v. S Tobin St / Shattuck Ave S Intersection – The project will construct two curb
ramps (one for north-south crossings, and one for east-west crossings) and new
curb-bulbs at the northwest corner of the intersection. It will construct a curb
ramp and new driveway entrance into the site on the east side of the intersection.
A curb ramp will also be constructed at the southwest corner.
vi. S 2nd St/ Lake Ave S Intersection – The project will construct a curb ramp at the
northeast corner of the intersection to serve crossings of S 2nd Ave to the south.
The southwest, southeast, and northwest corner will remain unchanged.
c. Roadway Network: Roadway and Curb Signage - Due to the school site
expansion, the District will coordinate with the City to confirm the new equipment
SERVICE | EXCELLENCE | EQUITY
7812 S 124th St., Seattle, Washington 98178-4830 | p.425.204.4403 | f.425.204.4476
CAPITAL PLANNING
AND CONSTRUCTION
required as well as the locations and enforcement times for school-zone signage and
flashing beacons, including, but not limited to, the requirement of zone signage
and signals up to 300 feet from the high school property lines. The District will
also coordinate with the City on signage and restrictions for the school-bus load zone
proposed along the west side of Logan Ave S between Airport Way and S 2nd St.
d. Operational Measures: Short-Term Conditions – Construction Management
Plan (CMP) – The District will continue working with the selected contractor to
refine the CMP that addresses traffic and pedestrian access control during school
construction for each major phase. It will confirm truck routes, lane closures,
walkway routes and closures, and parking disruptions, as necessary. The CMP may
also include measures to keep adjacent streets clean on a daily basis at the truck exit
points (such as street sweeping or on-site truck wheel cleaning) to reduce tracking
dirt off site. The CMP will identify parking locations for the construction personnel,
students, staff, and load/unload areas for school buses and passenger vehicles during
peak arrival and dismissal periods. It will also include measures to minimize or avoid
truck access/egress and deliveries during school peak arrival and dismissal periods.
During phases when on-site parking is limited, outside user-group events at the Ikea
Performing Arts Center (IPAC) may need to be limited or restricted. Those events
may occur if off-site parking can be arranged such as through a shared-parking
agreement with the City Center Parking Garage.
e. Operational Measures: Long-Term Conditions – Operations
i. Transportation Management Plan (TMP) – Prior to the school opening, the
District and school principal will establish a Transportation Management Plan
(TMP) to educate families about the access load/unload procedures for the site
layout. It will encourage school bus ridership, use of public transit, carpooling,
and walking or biking. The plan will define clear procedures and travel routes for
family vehicles and instruct family drivers not to block or partially block travel
lanes with queued or waiting vehicles. The plan will also address evening event
conditions by identifying appropriate parking locations for attendees, and or
adjusting the schedule or size of events to better accommodate demand with the
available parking supply. A new video detection system and traffic Point Tilt
Zoom (PTZ) camera with associated signal cabinet equipment may be
needed to monitor traffic long term operation and queuing at pickup and
drop off times at the intersection of Logan Ave S and S 2nd St. The City and
District shall work together on this operational improvement.
ii. Event Parking Management – It is recommended that the school monitor
concurrent scheduling of the IPAC, black box theater, and other assembly spaces
(such as the gymnasium during varsity basketball games) to determine if parking
demand could exceed the on-site supply and to determine if management
measures may be required. Options for parking management during multiple
SERVICE | EXCELLENCE | EQUITY
7812 S 124th St., Seattle, Washington 98178-4830 | p.425.204.4403 | f.425.204.4476
CAPITAL PLANNING
AND CONSTRUCTION
concurrent events may include directing attendees to off-site parking (such as the
City Center Parking Garage at the southeast corner of the S 2nd St / Logan Ave S
intersection about 500 feet from the school site).
The lead agency will not act on this proposal for 14 days from issue date (issue date: November
5, 2025). Comments must be submitted by 5:00 pm on November 19, 2025. Comments can be
mailed or emailed to the address listed above. There is no comment period required for the
Modified MDNS. There is no agency appeal of this MDNS; appeals are governed by RCW
43.21C.075.
Responsible Official:
12/02/2025
Matthew Feldmeyer, Executive Director of Date
Capital Planning & Construction
Renton School District
Published in the Seattle Times and Daily Journal of Commerce Nov. 5, 2025; Renton Reporter:
Nov. 6, 2025. The Modified MDNS issued to agencies on December 2, 2025.
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:
Renton High School Replacement and Site Expansion (SEPA Phase 3)
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 12, 2025, Revised Nov. 4, 2025, Revised Dec. 1, 2025
5. Agency requesting checklist:
Renton School District
6. Proposed timing of schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
This SEPA Checklist represents Phase 3 of environmental review for the Renton High School
Replacement and Site Expansion Project. Demolition of some of the newly acquired
structures, utilities and paving was evaluated through two previous SEPA phases: Renton
High School Demolition Phase 1 (March – June 2025) and Phase 2 (May – July 2025). The
demolition associated with Phases 1 and 2 is underway and is anticipated to continue
through February 2026.
The demolition of other newly acquired structures not covered under Phase 1 and 2 is
included in this Phase 3 of SEPA review, the final phase, and will commence in the winter of
2025 – 2026, with demolition of the school buildings to occur later in 2028 and 2029.
Phase 3 also evaluates all other environmental elements for the replacement and site
expansion of Renton High School.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 3
(WAC 197-11-960)
Construction of the new school campus will be phased to minimize disruptions to the school
campus, including community use. The first phase will begin at the conclusion of school
activities in June of 2026 beginning with the west parking lot and frontage improvements to
2nd Ave. The construction of the new high school building will begin in September 2026
with occupancy of the new school building anticipated fall of 2028. Demolition of the
existing school buildings and site work including remaining athletic fields/courts, parking,
and frontage improvements will occur in 2028 and 2029. Construction activities will
continue onsite until September of 2030.
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 plans associated with this proposal.
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be
prepared, directly related to this proposal.
Has been prepared:
• Archaeology Work Plan, prepared by HRA dated June 2024
• Archaeological Monitoring and Inadvertent Discovery Plan for Geotechnical Boring
prepared by HRA dated 2024
• RHS Built Environment Inventory Report prepared by HRA dated January 2025
• Archaeological Resources Survey by Historical Research Associates, Inc. dated March
2025
• Addendum to Archaeological Resources Survey by Historical Research Associates,
Inc. Feb. 2025
• Addendum to Archaeological Resources Survey by Historical Research Associates,
Inc. May 2025
• Archaeological Monitoring and Inadvertent Discovery Plan for Demolition for the
Renton High School Project by Historical Research Associates, Inc. May 2025
• Confidential Memorandum-Impacts to Moses Homestead Site, prepared by
Historical Research Associates, Inc. dated July 2025
• Confidential Memorandum-Impacts to Recontact Sites and Other Historic Properties,
prepared by Historical Research Associates, Inc. dated July 2025
• Critical Areas Reconnaissance Study: Technical Memorandum prepared by Facet,
dated March 2025.
• Dept. of Ecology letter dated April 4, 2025 regarding soil contamination
• Conceptual Site, Grading and Utilities Plan prepared by AHBL dated September, 2025
• Conceptual Landscape Architecture Plans prepared by AHBL dated September, 2025
• Geotechnical Report prepared by AESI dated September 2025
• Transportation Technical Report prepared by Heffron Transportation, Inc., dated
September 2025
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 4
(WAC 197-11-960)
• Tree Retention/Land Clearing Plan prepared by Atlas Technical Consultants dated
September 2025
• Tree Credit Worksheet prepared by AHBL dated September 2025
• Field Lighting Summary prepared by MUSCO dated September 2025
• Site Lighting Plans and Photometric Analysis prepared by GFT, Inc. dated Sept. 2025
• Construction Phasing Plan prepared by Skanska Building USA dated September 2025
• Hazardous Building Survey for RHS prepared by Apex Companies dated Sept. 2025.
• FAA Form 7460-I Determinations of No Hazard dated April 2025 (compiled Sept.
2025)
To be prepared:
• Hazardous Materials Survey Reports for buildings to be demolished
• Addendums to the Archaeological Resources Survey by Historical Research
Associates
• DAHP Archaeological Site Alteration and Excavation Permit Application
• Temporary Erosion Sediment Control (TESC) Plan and Stormwater Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) will be submitted as part of the construction permit
application.
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 known pending applications or government approvals impacting this
project.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
City of Renton: PUD approval, Conditional Use Permit, Civil Construction Permit, Building
Permits, Demolition Permits, Street Vacations (portions of S Tobin Street and S Tillicum
Street), Lot Consolidation.
Dept. of Ecology: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)
Renton School District: SEPA determination
FAA: Form 7460-1 No Hazard Determinations
WA Dept. Arch and Historic Preservation (DAHP): Review Historic and Cultural Resources
Reports, Archaeological Site Alteration and Excavation Permit Application
Puget Sound Clean Air Agency: Approval for removal of asbestos if found in structures.
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.)
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 5
(WAC 197-11-960)
As a result of a Citizens Facility Advisory Committee process in 2021–2022, Renton School
District (RSD) determined that a replacement for Renton High School (RHS) was needed
to provide a more equitable comprehensive high school building and site for RHS
students, staff, and families, and this project was approved by voters in the November
2022 Bond election. After an extensive property search, in May 2023, the Renton School
Board approved the plan to review expanding the footprint of the current RHS location.
Existing RHS Campus/Site Details
The current Renton High School campus is situated on 23.23 acres located at 400 S 2nd
St, Renton, Washington. Renton High School began instruction in 1911 on 2 acres in a 3-
story building. In the 1930s a new building was constructed to the west of the 1911
building and the 1911 building was demolished in the 1940s. Various additions and
improvements have been added to the campus over the years. The existing High School
campus has four main buildings:
1. The main instructional building (179,772 SF) constructed in 1932, which is three
stories in height and composed of masonry. Three wings were added to the building
in 1942, 1954 and between 1969 and 1977. The original 1932 building is considered
eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).
2. A gymnasium and cafeteria building (85,025 SF) constructed in 1958 and composed of
concrete and metal-framed windows, and
3. A vocational instruction building (27,500 SF) constructed in 1964 and later converted
in 1999 to house district nutritional services and surplus. It is composed of concrete
with brick veneer cladding.
4. The IKEA Performing Arts Center (IPAC) building (17,500 SF) constructed in 2003.
Also existing on the current site are four tennis courts, two sports field areas primarily
used as baseball/softball and soccer fields, a courtyard and approximately 350 parking
spaces. The buildings are centrally located on the school grounds while the fields, courts,
and parking areas are east and west of the buildings. Access to the campus is currently
provided via S 2nd St and Logan Ave S. Approximately 5 acres of the site is restricted from
future development by the Runway Protection Zone for the Renton Municipal Airport.
Proposed RHS Renovation and Site Expansion
The new Renton High School (RHS) campus will expand to the north and east of the historic
Renton High School campus. The Renton School District (RSD) recently acquired 42 parcels
(see below) adjacent to the RHS campus in order to facilitate site expansion and the shifting
of the buildings and taller structures to the eastern portions of the campus, which is to
avoid affecting the FAA Navigable Airspace for Renton Municipal Airport and comply with
the City’s Airport Height and Use Restrictions. Most of the structures on the newly acquired
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 6
(WAC 197-11-960)
parcels are currently under demolition. These parcels add to the size of the RHS campus,
which after dedication of frontages to the City for right of way, will be 33.6 acres.
The proposal will retain the existing 1930s historic high school building, and the interior will
be renovated for RSD/RHS Support uses. The IKEA Performing Arts Center (IPAC) will also
be preserved, while the existing classroom additions, gymnasium, and warehouse will be
demolished. A new, three-story 310,000 SF classroom building will be constructed fronting
on Logan Ave S and S 2nd St. This includes a new gymnasium that will be constructed to the
north of the new classroom portion of the building. Other structures include 960 SF
concessions building, a 4,500 SF storage building and an 810 SF grounds maintenance
building, as well as batting cages for both softball and baseball.
The proposal includes improvements to RHS athletic fields, courts and amenities. It will add
a standard competition size baseball and softball field and a multipurpose
football/soccer/lacrosse practice field in the northern portion of the campus. The fields in
this portion of the campus will have synthetic turf with underdrains and field lighting. The
existing multipurpose field located in the western portion of campus (that currently
supports three baseball, one soccer field and spectator seating) will remain in the same
location but will be renovated to provide only practice track and field facilities with no
spectator seating. This field will have a grass infield with underdrains and will not be lit due
to the RMA airspace restrictions. The district is proposing to add two additional tennis
courts, two outdoor half-court basketball courts and three outdoor pickleball courts that
will be available for public use. These facilities will be unlit.
The proposal will provide approximately 476 staff/visitor/student parking spaces and four
small bus spaces. There will be 21 bus parking spaces provided along Logan Ave that can be
used after-hours for 47 standard vehicle parking spaces. Parking for special events can be
accommodated in the northwestern portion of the site for approximately 48 spaces. The
proposal will require a street vacation for a portion of S Tobin St and S Tillicum St. It will
also require a consolidation of all lots that comprise the RHS campus into one lot. The
street vacation and lot consolidation will be processed following PUD approval.
The proposed project would reconfigure access and parking for the overall campus. The
segments of S Tobin St and S Tillicum St between Shattuck Ave S and Logan Ave S are
proposed to be vacated to create a consolidated school property. Access to the campus will
be via an expanded drop-off/pick-up lane on S 2nd St; at S 2nd St near the intersection of
Lake Ave S; at Lake Ave S; and at the intersection of S Tobin St and Shattuck Ave S. School
buses will load/unload in a pullout lane on Logan Ave S.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 7
(WAC 197-11-960)
Students will remain onsite during construction. School capacity will increase from 1,389 to
1,600 students; however, enrollment levels (currently 1,208 students) are not anticipated to
increase in the near-term.
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 proposed new Renton High School campus is bounded on the north by S Tobin St and
Airport Way, on the east by Logan Ave S, on the south by S 2nd St and on the west by Lake
Ave S and Shattuck Ave S in downtown Renton. The main entrance and address will
continue to be 400 S 2nd St Renton, WA 98057.
The properties comprising the expanded campus are located in Township 23 North, Range 5
East, Section 18, Willamette Meridian, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Renton Topographic
Quadrangle. They are comprised of 44 tax parcels as follows:
Parcel Property Address
722930-0490 301 Airport Way
722930-0515 505 Airport Way
722930-0545 423 - 455 Airport Way
722930-0580 511 Airport Way
722930-0595 43-49 Logan Ave S
722930-0635 51 Logan Ave S
722930-0630 55 Logan Ave S
000720-0043 59 Logan Ave S
000720-0017 75 Logan Ave S
000720-0016 81 Logan Ave S
569600-0190 97 Logan Ave S
569600-0185 103 Logan Ave S
Parcel Property Address
569600-0180 107 Logan Ave S
569600-0170 109 Logan Ave S
569600-0169 113 Logan Ave S
569600-0165 117 Logan Ave S
569600-0160 121 Logan AveS
569600-0155 127 Logan Ave S
569600-0150 129 Logan Ave S
569600-0145 526 2nd Ave S
569600-0140 526 2nd Ave S
000720-0167 54 – 56 Shattuck Ave S
000720-0171 58 - 60 Shattuck Ave S
000720-0034 300 – 302 S Tobin St
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 8
(WAC 197-11-960)
000720-0035 312 S Tobin St
000720-0033 314 S Tillicum St
000720-0036 316 S Tobin St
000720-0037 402 S Tobin St
000720-0179 406 S Tobin St
000720-0038 408 S Tobin St
000720-0039 414 S Tobin St
000720-0078 416 S Tobin St
000720-0079 418 S Tobin St
000720-0072 420 S Tobin St
000720-0110 500 S Tobin St
000720-0108 502 S Tobin St
000720-0114 504 S Tobin St
000720-0040 508 S Tobin St
000720-0127 509 S Tobin St
000720-0128 513-515 S Tobin St
000720-0041 518 S Tobin St
000720-0214 311 S Tillicum St,
000720-0060 400 2nd Ave and 409 S
Tobin St
380600-0065 XX Lake Ave
Figure 1: Vicinity Map
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 9
(WAC 197-11-960)
B. Environmental Elements
1. Earth
a. General description of the site:
The site is in an urbanized area of Renton, partially in and adjacent to downtown Renton. The
site is generally flat.
Circle or highlight one: Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountainous, other:
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
Topography across the site and surrounding areas is relatively flat to very gently sloping
to the northwest. Overall vertical relief across the school campus trending south to
north is approximately 4 feet over a distance of about 850 feet (approximately 0.5%).
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.
Associated Earth Sciences, Inc. (AESI) performed field explorations and a review of
selected applicable geologic literatures. AEIS concluded that, consistent with regional
soils mapping (Soil Survey of King County Area, Washington, U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA), Soils Conservation Services (SCS) now referred to as Natural
Resources Conservation Services (NRSC)), the site is underlain by Urban Land (Ur) soils.
Urban Land soil is soils that has been modified by disturbance of the natural layers with
additions of fill material several feet thick. The site does not contain agricultural lands of
long-term commercial significance.
d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If
so, describe.
City of Renton GIS mapping indicates that the area is at a high risk for seismic hazard.
This seismic hazard area encompasses most of downtown Renton and all along the
Cedar River to the east of the proposal area. Site-specific evaluation by AESI describes
the soils as being susceptible to liquefaction, which will require mitigation for site work
and foundation support in the form of aggregate pier footings.
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.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 10
(WAC 197-11-960)
The project will require earthwork for building demolition and to install subgrades for
parking, walkways, buildings, and play fields. The project will see approximate 40,000 CY
of fill and 4,900 CY of cut. Onsite soils are not suitable for use as fill. The sources of
structural fill are not yet determined but will be from an approved source.
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 practices will be employed.
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project
construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
Approximately 74% percent of the completed project will be impervious, including
buildings, parking, walkways, and under-drained athletic fields.
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
(TESC) Plan and Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) will be prepared in
accordance with the requirements of the City’s adopted stormwater manual will be
submitted as part of the construction permit application. Planned measures include
installing filter socks in existing catch basins and setting up straw wattles, silt fencing,
and interceptor swales. Temporary tanks will be placed on site to help remove
sediments.
To mitigate and reduce the erosion hazard and potential for off-site sediment transport,
the following recommendations of the geotechnical engineer (see Draft Geotechnical
Report dated Sept, 2025 prepared by AESI, or as updated) shall be followed:
1. Construction activity should be scheduled or phased as much as possible to avoid
earthwork activity during the wet season.
2. The winder performance of the site is dependent on a well-conceived plan for
control of site erosion and stormwater runoff. The site plan should include
ground-cover measures and staging areas. The contractor should be prepared to
implement and maintain the required measures to reduce the amount of
exposed ground.
3. TESC elements and perimeter flow control should be established prior to the
start of grading. This should include, but is not limited to, silt fencing, swales
with check dams, rocked construction entrance, etc.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 11
(WAC 197-11-960)
4. During the wetter months of the year, or when significant storm events are
predicted during the summer months, the work area should be stabilized so that
if showers occur, it can receive the rainfall without excessive erosion or sediment
transport. The required measures for an area to be “buttoned-up” will depend
on the time of year and the duration that the area will be left unworked. During
the winter months, areas that are to be left unworked for more than 2 days
should be mulched or covered with plastic. During the summer months,
stabilization will usually consist of seal-rolling the subgrade. Such measures will
aid in the contractor’s ability to get back into a work area after a storm event.
The stabilization process also includes establishing temporary stormwater
conveyance channels through work areas to route runoff to the approved
treatment/discharge facilities.
5. Surface runoff and discharge should be controlled during and following
development. Uncontrolled discharge may promote erosion and sediment
transport.
6. Soils that are to be reused around the site should be stored in such a manner as
to reduce erosion from the stockpile. Protective measures may include, but are
not limited to, covering stockpiles with plastic sheeting, or the use of silt fences
around stockpile perimeters.
To mitigate the risk of liquefaction-induced settlement, the geotechnical engineer
recommends ground improvements for the building foundation as detailed in their
August 2025 Geotechnical Report.
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.
Demolition and 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.
Testing for hazardous materials is in process and will be completed prior to demolition
of the structures. If there are hazardous materials discovered, city, state and federal
regulations will be followed to ensure proper disposal of those materials so that release
of hazardous materials to the air are prevented.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 12
(WAC 197-11-960)
New emissions generated by the completed project will be related to vehicle emissions.
Because the school is existing, any increase in vehicle emissions are anticipated to be
low and not significant.
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. The Renton Municipal Airport is approximately .25
miles from the site, and aviation activities cause emissions and odor. These emissions
are not expected to affect the project.
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. If there
are hazardous materials discovered in the buildings to be demolished, all city, state and
federal regulations will be followed to ensure proper handling and disposal of those
materials.
After construction school buses will not be allowed to idle during loading and unloading
times.
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.
The Cedar River flows through downtown Renton and is approximately 280 ft to the
northeast of the project site. There are no known surface water bodies on the
subject properties.
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 Cedar River.
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.
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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 does not lie within a 100-year floodplain. According to King County
iMap, the project area lies within a FEMA recognized 500-year floodplain area. FEMA
FIRM panel: 53033C0977G.
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 or infiltrated 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.
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.
Stormwater is generated by rainwater falling on the surfaces within the campus,
both pollution generating (parking lots and drive aisles) and non-pollution
generating (rooftops and landscaped areas). Currently, stormwater runoff is
collected in a tight-line storm system and conveyed to City of Renton drainage
system. For most of the site, stormwater is ultimately charged to the Black River
Wetlands, while for the eastern portion, stormwater is conveyed to the Cedar River.
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After the project is constructed, runoff will be collected and conveyed in
underground pipes to stormwater treatment systems and detention pipe systems,
before being directed to the city’s stormwater system.
2. Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe.
No waste materials are expected to enter ground or surface waters as a result of this
proposal. TESC measures will be employed in an effort to control erosion during
demolition and construction.
3. Does the proposal alter or otherwise affect drainage patterns in the vicinity of the
site? If so, describe.
The proposal will not alter or affect drainage patterns in the vicinity.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water, and
drainage pattern impacts, if any:
This project will be constructed in compliance with City of Renton stormwater
standards. Since the site is located in a drainage basin that was more than 40%
impervious in 1985, the flow control standard is to match the existing condition. This
project will meet this requirement using detention tanks connected to control
manholes. The project will protect water quality by directing runoff from pollution
generating surfaces to manufactured treatment devices, such as Filterra or Biopod.
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
☐ water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
☐ other types of vegetation
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b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
A Tree Retention and Land Clearing Plan was prepared for the project by Atlas Technical
Consultants dated Sept. 2025. Conceptual Landscape Plans and a Tree Credit Worksheet
were prepared by AHBL dated Sept. 2025. The plans describe existing vegetation as
variable and typical of developed urban area landscaping. There are many mature trees
onsite, including 212 significant trees (both deciduous and evergreen), together with
shrubs, grass and decorative plants. Much of the existing landscaping will be removed
and replaced. 28 of the significant trees will be retained. Most of the landmark trees
located along S 2nd Ave and Airport Way will be retained.
c. List threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
There are no known 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.
A Landscape Plan has been prepared for the project by AHBL dated Sept. 2025. The site
will be landscaped using native vegetation. Planting also avoids vegetation that attracts
wildlife per FAA regulations.
The plaza north of the school, which also serves as a fire lane, features zig-zagging
paving patterns modeled after riverbanks, and features benches like driftwood or boats.
the exposed aggregate patterns help break up the fire lane and celebrate the history
and context of the site. A large existing oak and adjacent plantings provide shade and
scale for the performance circle at the north end of the plaza. Pockets of feature
planting highlight entry points and provide focal points at key picture windows.
Street trees ring the site at an average of 30 LF. Shrubs and groundcovers provide a site
perimeter buffer and will be installed at or above the required minimum sizes. Tree
quantities in the parking areas meet the parking lot standards based on number of
stalls. Irrigation is provided for in new planting areas.
In accordance with RMC 4-4-130(H).10, tree protection fencing, root discovery, and
pruning methods will be employed during construction and any pruning needed for
clearance will follow industry standard practices. The best management practices for
tree protection during construction, which are detailed in the Tree Retention Report,
shall be followed.
To compensate for tree removal above the code-required minimum, and as allowed per
RMC 4-4-130(J)4.e, the District will pay an “in-lieu” fee into the city’s Urban Forestry
Program fund.
e. List all noxious weeds and invasive species known to be on or near the site.
King County iMap does not list any instances of noxious weeds or invasive species.
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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:
The site is in an urban area. Animals are likely to be limited to those typically found in
heavily urbanized terrain.
b. List any threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s PHS on the web
mapping tool, there are no known threatened or endangered species on or near the
site. The Cedar River, which at the closest point is approximately 280 feet to the east, is
known to contain Steelhead, Coho and Chinook marine species.
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 is in a developed urban area and does not anticipate any impacts to
wildlife; therefore, no measures are proposed.
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.
Per Washington State Energy Code requirements, electricity will be the energy source of
heating/cooling/ventilation/domestic water heating for the new building as well as any
site buildings. The new building will not utilize natural gas for any heating, ventilation,
air conditioning, or domestic water heating for this building. Natural gas will be provided
for the 1930’s building renovation heating boiler plant for building heating, as well as
domestic water heating. Electricity will be provided for all other energy needs of this
building. The new building is designed to meet the requirements of WA State Clean
Buildings Performance Standards (CBPS).
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Electrical service will be a combination of utility power grid and onsite solar-generated
power.
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.
The new building will cast shadows, but they will fall onsite and not affect 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.
The proposed new building includes energy code minimum requirements, Energy Star
certified equipment, on-site renewable energy, minimum energy metering, permanent
shading in classrooms, low-emitting interior finishes, a GHG reduction plan, EV charging
spaces, integrated pest management program, food waste reduction program, and use
of LED light fixtures with daylighting and occupancy controls.
The new building will be served by high-efficiency air-to-water heat pumps that provide
heating and cooling to the building, with Coefficients of Performance (COPs) in excess of
current energy code. Ventilation is provided by dedicated outdoor air systems as
required per the energy code, with high-efficiency heat recovery that will have
performance in excess of current code. Domestic water will be heated via high-
efficiency air-source heat pump water heaters. The building will utilize a control system
with logic programmed to minimize mechanical energy usage while maintaining building
comfort.
Architecturally the new building envelope performance will be above code minimum
and there will be exterior shading devices provided throughout the building.
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.
As with any construction project, there is the potential for accidental spills of hazardous
materials from construction equipment and vehicles. Spilled materials could include
fuels, lubricants, solvents, antifreeze, and similar substances. If not contained, these
contaminants could enter groundwater or surface water. School operation is not
expected to generate environmental health hazards.
1. Describe any known or possible contamination at the site from present or past
uses.
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Per the Department of Ecology What’s in My Neighborhood map, there are 12
cleanup sites (“cleanup started” or “awaiting cleanup”) within approximately 0.25
miles of the expanded campus.
Cleanup Started Awaiting Cleanup
Dennys Restaurant Sky Harbor Aviation
Lockwood Ind Inc Renton First Savings Bank NW
Qwest Corporation W00276
SDS Partners
Tire Store
Safeway Fuel Renton
Walker’s Renton Subaru Used Cars
Firestone 31A3
According to a letter from the Department of Ecology dated April 4, 2025, there is
petroleum contamination associated with the removal of an underground storage
tank (UST) located at 307 Airport Way that is awaiting cleanup (Cleanup Site ID 9972,
Facility Site ID 63618514, noted as SDS Partners).
Demolition of structures will not occur until completion of Hazardous Building
Materials Surveys to test for environmental hazards including asbestos, lead, and
contamination from oil heating tanks and other. These reports will identify the
hazardous materials and provide recommendations for safe handling and disposal in
compliance with City, State and Federal regulations. This includes decommissioning,
cleaning and removing any USTs that may be found and testing soil and groundwater
for contamination as per the Model Toxics Control Act (MTCA).
RHS 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 major pipelines or known underground storage tanks located within
the project area or vicinity.
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 construction-related activities.
4. Describe special emergency services that might be required.
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No additional emergency services will be required for this project.
5. Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any.
Any toxic or unsafe materials found on the site will be removed pursuant to
applicable regulatory requirements.
Care will be taken during construction to avoid spills or leaks of petroleum-based
products or chemicals used for construction. The contractor will follow due diligence
processes to evaluate and, as necessary, mitigate potential impacts identified.
Contractors will be required to comply with all applicable health and safety
regulations, including State of Washington Department of Labor and Industries
General Occupational Health Standards, Chapter 296-62 WAC, and General Safety
and Health Standards, Chapter 296-24 WAC.
The contractor will be required to comply with asbestos abatement laws during
demolition, including Washington Dept. of Labor and Industries requirements, Puget
Sound Clean Air Agency requirements and the recommendations provided in the
Hazardous Building Materials Surveys.
During excavation, appropriate health and safety measures will be required where
contaminated soils, sediment, surface water, or groundwater could be present,
including the use of personal protective equipment, worker training and
certification, and conducting visual and olfactory assessments. If suspect soils or
groundwater are encountered, sampling and laboratory analysis will be performed
for proper identification, handling, management, and disposal.
Proper cleanup of the contaminated soils associated with Cleanup Site ID 972,
Facility Site ID 63618514 is to be completed in accordance with the requirements of
Dept. of Ecology.
b. Noise
1. What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example:
traffic, equipment, operation, other)?
The King County Assessor lists the traffic noise level as high, however the ambient
noise will not affect the project. This site is located in a primarily urban area. Airport
Way is designated as a principal arterial, while Logan Ave S is designated as a minor
arterial. Renton Municipal Airport is about a quarter mile to the north, which also
creates external noise.
Significant acoustic enhancements to the building envelope are planned to control
airport noise in the building.
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)?
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Short term/temporary noise impacts will be caused by construction. Typical
construction noise will include the operation of trucks and excavators, building
demolition and building erection. . The installation of geo piers to support
foundations are estimated to occur over a 3.5 to 5 month period and , in addition to
noise may also cause vibrations. Activities will take place within the City of Renton
prescribed hours of Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. through 8 p.m. and Saturday 9
a.m. through 8 p.m.
Long term, noise typically associated with a high school will be experienced and will
be approximately the same as existing. Noise associated with outdoor sports
activities will be moved from the west side of campus to the northeast corner.
There is no amplified noise currently and no speakers or noise amplification of
sports activities is planned.
3. Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
Construction noise will be completed in accordance with the City of Renton
requirements.
Following construction, noise levels are expected to be similar to existing and not
significant.
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 project area is comprised of a historic high school campus established in 1911 and a
mix of residential, office and commercial properties that were recently acquired.
Currently the site houses a high school building, constructed in the 1930s and several
additions. The campus was added to and remodeled over the years until the last major
remodel and addition of the IKEA Performing Arts Center in 2002-2003.
The additional 42 parcels (approximately 344,930 SF of land area) that comprise the
expansion area have been acquired by Renton School District in 2024 and 2025 to
integrate into the new/ expanded RHS campus. Structures, asphalt and utilities on some
of those properties are in the process of demolition.
The area in which this project is occurring is part of downtown Renton, and the current
uses surrounding it range from small-scale commercial buildings, single-family homes,
auto-oriented service buildings, office, mixed use, retail, parking lots and garages, public
spaces and multi-family housing, ranging in age from 1900 to 2000.
The northern portion of the site abuts Airport Way, which is classified as a Principal
Arterial, and has primarily Industrial and commercial land uses, without much
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pedestrian infrastructure or housing. Airport Way is bounded on the north by the
Renton Municipal Airport.
The current and proposed southern border of the site is S 2nd St, also classified as a
Principal Arterial. This street connects downtown Renton to Rainier Ave S. Similar to the
above general description, the land uses have changed continuously over time but
generally reflect urban and commercial uses ranging in development between 1900 and
2025. The street itself is a boulevard with a median planted with mature street trees.
The western portion of the site is Lake Ave S, and is not proposed to see dramatic
changes, mostly due to the FAA restrictions regarding height. Lake Ave S is not classified
by the City of Renton and is only two blocks from Airport Way to S. 2nd St. Uses along
Lake Ave S include single-story commercial or light industrial buildings with surface
parking- examples include a church, a clinic, a law office. Several of the buildings are
fronting on Rainier Ave S and in some areas, Lake Ave could be seen as more of a wide
alley.
The east side of the site is bounded by Logan Ave S. This is designated as a minor
arterial. Logan Ave S uses are currently mostly small-scale residential uses, with similarly
scaled commercial uses on the corners of the major arterials.
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 following structures are located on the Phase 3 SEPA properties that are part of the
expanded Renton High School campus. Structures that were described as “to be
demolished” in the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Renton High School Demolition SEPA were
previously evaluated under SEPA and are not included in this list.
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RHS Reconstruction and Site Expansion
Phase 3 SEPA Properties - Onsite Structures
ID Parcel Property Address Current Use, built date Bldg. size
(SF)
1. 722930-0490 301-309 Airport
Way Warehouse, 1947 26,954
2. 722930-0635 51 Logan Ave S SF Home, 1916 1,820
3. 569600-0185 103 Logan Ave S SF home, built 1938 1,470
4. 569600-0180 107 Logan Ave S Vacant 0
5. 000720-0034 300 – 302 S Tobin Duplex, 1948 2,030
6. 000720-0037 402 S Tobin St SF Home, 1949 3360
7. 000720-0060 409 S Tobin St District Warehouse, 1964 27,500
8. 000720-0079 418 S Tobin St SF Home, 1997 1,080
9. 000720-0110 500 S Tobin St SF Home, 1902 1,210
10. 000720-0114 504 S Tobin St SF Home, 1902 2,250
11. 000720-0060 400 S 2nd St Renton High School 290,346
Total Existing Structure Sizes 358,020
The structures associated with the existing high school are as follows:
• Main Classroom Building: 84,749 SF
• West Wing Addition: 68,627 SF
• East Wing Addition: 35,145 SF
• Gymnasium: 85,025 SF
• IPAC Theater: 17,500 SF
d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
With the exception of the following, all of the above structures will be demolished:
• Main Classroom Building (1931): 84,749 SF
• IPAC Theater: 17,500 SF
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e. What is the current zoning classification of the site?
The site where the existing RHS is located is zoned CD (Center Downtown), along with
properties adjacent to Logan Ave S, into which area the RHS campus is proposed to
expand. The north parcels along Airport Way are zoned CA (Commercial Arterial). There
is a short block between S Tobin St and S Tillicum St that is zoned R-8 (Residential-8).
Additionally, there are five overlay zones in the project area: Urban Design District A,
Urban Design District D, Airspace Protection Zone, Downtown Business District and City
Center Sign Regulation Area.
Figure 2 - Zoning Map
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
The comprehensive plan designation is Commercial Mixed Use, with the exception of
the residential zoning between S Tobin St and S Tillicum St, which is designated
Residential Medium Density. The property is within the City Center Subarea, Regional
Employment Subarea, and the PSRC-designated Regional Growth Center. The south and
east portions are in the Civic Core Vision and Action Plan area.
g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the site?
The site is not within a shoreline jurisdiction.
h. Has any part of the site been classified as a critical area by the city or county? If so,
specify.
City of Renton: High Seismic Hazard, Wellhead Protection Area Zone 1 and 2.
i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project?
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No persons will reside in the project area. Employment is expected to remain at current
levels in the near term but increase in the long term to approximately 120 full time and
30 part time staff.
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
Renton School District has acquired residential properties, and the residents have been
or will be relocated. For this Phase 3 of the Renton High School Replacement and Site
Expansion SEPA process, the project will result in the displacement of 8 residential units,
or approximately 20 people (according to the US Census average household size for
Renton). Overall, including the buildings demolished as part of Phase 1 and 2 SEPA
environmental review, the project will displace 39 dwelling units or approximately 99
people.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any.
The owners were compensated fairly for the purchase of the properties and the
residents were provided with assistance for relocation. There are no other proposed
measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts.
l. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and projected
land uses and plans, if any.
The new classroom building is located on S 2nd St and close to the corner of Logan Ave S,
a pedestrian street, consistent with the City requirements for the City Center Plan Area
and the Urban Design Guidelines. A public gathering space is located around the main
entry area with landscaping and seating. Wider pedestrian paths and sidewalks are
provided, particularly along S 2nd St and Logan Ave S, where the bulk of the pedestrian
activity is focused. Vehicle traffic is kept separate from school buses.
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.
8 housing units will be eliminated as part of the Phase 3 SEPA environmental review.
These are middle income housing units. The overall project (including buildings
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demolished as part of Phase 1 and 2 SEPA environmental review) eliminates 39 dwelling
units of middle housing.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
The owners/residents were compensated fairly for the purchase of the properties and
the residents were provided with assistance for relocation. There are no other
proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts.
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 building will be the new high school building which will be approximately 65
feet in height to the top of the mechanical penthouse. (48 feet average height of highest
roof). It will be comprised of building materials that are complementary with the new
and the existing buildings on site. Materials will include two blends of masonry bricks
(varied tones), metal panels, corrugated metal siding and glazing systems including
aluminum curtain wall and storefront.
The athletic fields in the northeast corner of the site will have field lighting. The pole
heights will vary from 46 to 75 feet, inclusive of anticipated FAA-required obstruction
lights.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
Views will change slightly as a result of removing and replacing fields, structures and
parking lots with new facilities and landscaping. No views will be obstructed by the
proposal. The new portion of the high school building will be relocated to front along S
2nd St and Logan Ave S and new ballfields will be added to the northwestern portion of
the property that has historically been comprised of a mix of residential and commercial
uses.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
The site and building have been designed to meet the City of Renton’s Urban Design
District A and D requirements. Building materials will be of high quality and
complementary with the new and existing buildings on site. Materials will include two-
tones of masonry bricks, metal panels, corrugated metal siding and various high quality
glazing systems including curtain wall and storefront. These materials will also be
detailed and organized in an overall complimentary manner that organizes the
composition of the facades to represent the building internal program and uses.
The building façade has been modulated and articulated to break up the bulk and
massing of the building.
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11. Light and glare
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would it
mainly occur?
Light and glare will generally occur during the early evening hours, consistent with what
is present on the current campus, and what is expected of a similar use. The buildings,
parking lots and pathways will be lit for safety and security after dusk. The athletic
fields will be lit when they are in use from dusk until approximately 10pm during the
darker months of the year. Street/sidewalk lighting will be provided in accordance with
city requirements.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with
views?
Careful consideration has gone into the location and height of the field lighting given
Renton High School’s location within the Renton Municipal Airport’s Runway Protection
Zone to prevent a safety or obstruction hazard for airplanes approaching the runway.
The District will be submitting to the FAA several Form 7460-I’s No Hazard Evaluations
for each light pole location, which are anticipated to result in receipt of “no hazard”
Obstruction Evaluations (OE). It is likely that special treatments of the poles may be
needed to improve pilot safety, such as special painting or beacons to enhance visibility.
An FAA representative has explained that they are most concerned with the height of
the poles than they are with the lights on the poles.
One other potential safety hazard would be related to light spill from the field lights to
adjacent rights of way and impacts to driver safety. The lighting study demonstrates
that the light spill to the adjacent roadways will fall within the acceptable levels
provided in Renton Municipal Code (RMC) 4-6-060.I.3. Light spill at the residential
property line (east of Logan Ave and western extents of Tobin Ave S) is predicted to be
less than 0.09 footcandles.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
This proposal is in downtown Renton, and close to the Renton Municipal airport, with
the light and glare associated with airport, traffic and urban uses. Light and glare will not
be affect the proposal.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any:
The site and field lighting was carefully designed to minimize potential impacts to the
airspace, adjacent rights of way, and adjacent/nearby properties. The field lights will be
specifically aimed to the field areas and the fixtures themselves will be shielded to
ensure downcast lighting.
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To further mitigate the effects of lighting intensity beyond the subject property line,
sports field lighting pole heights have been reduced to the maximum height allowed by
the FAA (due to proximity of an active runway), and balanced with just the right amount
of light output and distribution to provide only the amount of light needed on the field
playing surface for the safety of the players. All sports field lights are shielded and aimed
at a specific spot on the playing surface to provide the required amount of uniform light
levels as recommended by Illuminating Engineering Society (IES).
The design and specification for exterior lighting meets all of the International Dark
Sky “Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting”.
Additionally, lighting will be turned off by 10 pm when in use during the darker months
of the year.
See the lighting design details and photometrics provided with the lighting study for
additional information.
12. Recreation
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate
vicinity?
Currently RHS offers a multi-purpose field with baseball and softball diamonds and
soccer goals, four tennis courts, and another dedicated softball field. Indoor recreation
activities occur in the gymnasium and IKEA Performing Arts Center. Track, football and
soccer athletes play at the nearby Renton Memorial Stadium.
Additional nearby parks spaces include the Jones Logan Park, Jones Park and the trail
along the Cedar River to the east of the site, which is less than .25 miles from the site.
To the south are two small urban open spaces- Gateway Park and Piazza Park/Legacy
Square. Cultural Centers nearby include the Renton Pavilion Events Center.
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so, describe.
No, the proposed project would not displace any existing recreational uses. The phasing
of construction is designed to ensure that school sports will have use of the fields as
needed.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including recreation
opportunities to be provided by the project or applicant, if any:
No impacts to recreation are anticipated. The proposal will enhance the school’s athletic
fields by adding new types of recreation, using synthetic turf and field lighting to extend
field use times, and converting fields to regulation sizes.
The site expansion includes several new proposed recreational facilities that are
designed to meet standards for competitive play (softball, baseball and multipurpose
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 28
(WAC 197-11-960)
fields plus indoor basketball, volleyball and badminton courts) and will be open for
public use outside of school hours including tennis courts, pickleball courts, and half-
court basketball. The location of the existing ball fields in the western portion of
campus will be renovated for track and field practice use only with no spectator seating
and no lighting due to its location in the Runway Protection Zone for Renton Municipal
Airport.
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.
This part of Renton was developed around the turn of the 20th century and there are
many buildings on the Renton High School (RHS) site and in the vicinity that are over 45
years old, including the structures slated for demolition. The project will retain the
oldest and most significant built-environment feature of the campus, the 1932 main
building (as well as the 2003 IKEA PAC). Historical Research Associates, Inc. (HRA)
prepared a Built Environment Inventory Report dated January 2025, which evaluated
the RHS buildings including those recently acquired by the District and proposed for
demolition.
The HRA Built Environment Inventory Report (January 2025) recommends that four of
the Renton High School buildings (the RHS main building, the RHS gym building, the
District Warehouse building, and the West Playfield) qualify as contributing resources to
a National Register of Historic Places (NRHP)-eligible historic district. Additionally, the
RHS main building (built in 1931-1932) is individually NRHP-eligible. No other historic
properties were identified. No properties are listed on the King County Register of
Historic Places.
The results of the survey and inventory were recorded in an inventory report (Beckner
and Waldroop 2025), along with historic property inventory forms (HPIs) that were
submitted via the Washington Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation’s
(DAHP’s) WISAARD database. Recommendations regarding the NRHP eligibility of
surveyed resources were reviewed and concurred upon by DAHP reviewers.
The following buildings associated with this Phase 3 SEPA evaluation are more than 45
years old:
RHS Replacement and Site Expansion
Phase 3 SEPA Properties/Structures Over 45 years Old
Parcel Property Address Current Use Built Date Bldg. size
(SF)
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 29
(WAC 197-11-960)
722930-0490 301-309 Airport
Wy
Warehouse 1947 26,954
722930-0635 51 Logan Ave S SF Home 1916 1,820
569600-0185 103 Logan Ave S SF home 1938 1,470
000720-0034 300 – 302 S Tobin Duplex 1948 2,030
000720-0037 402 S Tobin St SF Home 1949 3360
000720-0060 409 S Tobin St District
Warehouse
1964 27,500
000720-0110 500 S Tobin St SF Home 1902 1,210
000720-0114 504 S Tobin St SF Home 1902 2,250
000720-0060 400 2nd Ave RHS Main
Building
1931-32
000720-0060 400 2nd Ave RHS West Wing
Addition
1942-54,
expanded 1964
68,627
000720-0060 400 2nd Ave RHS East Wing
Addition
1969-77,
expanded 2003
35,145
000720-0060 400 2nd Ave RHS Gymnasium 1958 85,025
There is one building located approximately 5 blocks southwest of Renton High School
that is listed on both the County and National Register of Historic places: The F.W
Woolworth Company store located at 724 S 3rd St and built in 1954.
According to DAHP’s WISAARD mapping tool, there are several nearby buildings (within
.25 miles) that have been determined eligible for listing in the NRHP but are not
currently listed. This includes:
• Chase Bank Building
• Renton Lutheran Church
• A Pontiac dealership
• Duff, Edmund & Jane residence
• Roxy Apartments
• Stokes Mortuary
• Evans, Harold and Nannie, House; Faull Renton Funeral home
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.
The RHS campus and acquisition area has been investigated for the presence of
archaeological resources many times as it is known to be the location of a former
channel of the Cedar River and tribal occupation, as well as a former historic-period
homestead. The RHS campus and vicinity have also been extensively modified
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 30
(WAC 197-11-960)
throughout the twentieth century, with the construction of and modifications to RHS
and its associated athletic fields and infrastructure, as well as development on
residential and commercial properties north and east of the RHS campus.
The District contracted with HRA to conduct cultural resources support for the project
consisting of the development of an archaeological work plan, monitoring and
inadvertent discovery plans (MIDPs) for different project activities, archaeological
survey, and reporting (see the table below for the documents produced to date).
HRA completed an archaeological report dated March 2025 (Warren et al. 2025) that
encompassed the school campus and some of the SEPA Phase 1 and Phase 2 demolition
properties. The survey included archival research, reviewing archaeological records in
the WISAARD database and pedestrian and subsurface archaeological survey of the RHS
properties. Two addendums to the report were prepared (Feb. and May 2025; McNulty
Perez 2025a; Warren 2025) to evaluate and report on additional properties as they were
acquired by the District. A third Addendum is anticipated to evaluate and report on
more recently acquired properties and additional shovel probe survey on the current
high school campus.
HRA’s work has identified archaeological sites within the project’s area of impacts.
Archaeological Plans and Inventory Reports Produced by HRA
Document
Title Citation Subject
Type(s) of
Survey
Completed
New Renton
High School
Archaeological
Work Plan
McNulty
Perez and
Kraemer
2024
This document provides the results
of archival research, establishes an
environmental and cultural context
for the project, and outlines
procedures for pedestrian survey,
subsurface survey, archaeological
monitoring, and archaeological
reporting to be followed for the
duration of the project.
N/A
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 31
(WAC 197-11-960)
Archaeological Plans and Inventory Reports Produced by HRA
Document
Title Citation Subject
Type(s) of
Survey
Completed
Archaeological
Monitoring
and
Inadvertent
Discovery Plan
for
Geotechnical
Boring for the
Renton High
School
Project, King
County,
Washington
Pickrell et
al. 2024
This document outlines procedures
for archaeological monitoring during
geotechnical boring on the current
Renton High School campus.
N/A
New Renton
High School
Archaeological
Survey Report
Warren et
al. 2025
This document reports the results
of pedestrian and subsurface
survey on the current Renton High
School campus and ten additional
parcels acquired by Renton School
District, as well as the results of
archaeological monitoring.
Pedestrian
survey;
subsurface
survey;
archaeological
monitoring
New Renton
High School
Archaeological
Report,
February 2025
Fieldwork
Addendum
McNulty
Perez
2025a
This document reports the results
of survey on seven additional
parcels acquired by Renton School
District, as well as the results of
archaeological monitoring of
geothermal well investigations.
Pedestrian
survey;
subsurface
survey;
archaeological
monitoring
New Renton
High School
Archaeological
Report, May
2025
Fieldwork
Addendum
Warren
2025
This document reports the results
of survey on 11 additional parcels
acquired by Renton School District.
Pedestrian
survey;
subsurface
survey
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 32
(WAC 197-11-960)
Archaeological Plans and Inventory Reports Produced by HRA
Document
Title Citation Subject
Type(s) of
Survey
Completed
Archaeological
Monitoring
and
Inadvertent
Discovery Plan
for the Renton
High School
Project, King
County,
Washington
McNulty
Perez
2025b
This document outlines procedures
for archaeological monitoring of
demolition activities on parcels
adjacent to the present-day Renton
High School campus. It discusses
classes of anticipated archaeological
finds and the appropriate treatment
for each.
N/A
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.
Several methods have been used to assess potential impacts to cultural and historic
resources on or near the project site, including the following:
• The District sent an initial letter to DAHP, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, Squaxin
Island Tribe, the Snoqualmie Tribe of Indians, the Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians,
the Suquamish Tribe, the Tulalip Tribes and the Duwamish Tribe in April 2024
notifying them of the project.
• HRA began their evaluation of the built environment and archaeological resources
on the site through a built-environment survey and the preparation of an
Archaeological Work Plan (June 2024), respectively. The Work Plan was
distributed to DAHP and the aforementioned Tribes, inviting them to review and
comment on the work plan in advance of the archaeological survey. The
following comments were received:
o The Squaxin Island Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO) confirmed
that the Project is outside of the Squaxin Island Tribe’s traditional area and
that no additional consultation with the Squaxin Island Tribe is necessary.
o The Suquamish THPO reviewed and approved the methods in the work
plan.
o DAHP acknowledged receipt of the work plan.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 33
(WAC 197-11-960)
• For the Built Environment Inventory Report (January 2025), HRA conducted
background research, survey, inventory, and impacts assessment to support
cultural resources review under SEPA. HRA surveyed 34 built-environment
resources and made recommendations for NRHP-eligible resources. The Built
Environment Inventory Report was forwarded to DAHP for their review and
archive in January 2025. HPIs were reviewed in the WISAARD database and
recommendations of NRHP-eligibility were concurred upon.
• The District sent an email on August 8, 2024, informing DAHP and the Tribes of
the schedule for archaeological fieldwork between August 19 and 30, 2024, and
inviting them to observe. No other responses were received in advance of the
fieldwork.
• On September 4, 2024, the Cultural Preservation Officer for the Duwamish Tribe
requested a meeting with the District, HRA, and a representative of the City of
Renton. The meeting occurred virtually on September 20, 2024, and the Tribe
was on site during geothermal well investigations that occurred in October 2024.
HRA and the District also informed them of the schedule for archaeological
investigations and monitoring that occurred on adjacent properties and the
campus between October 2024 and the present, per their request.
• For the Archaeology Report (March 2025) and two Addendums (Feb. and May
2025) HRA archaeologists conducted pedestrian and subsurface archaeological
survey throughout the RHS campus and the adjacent properties as they were
acquired. In total they excavated 74 shovel probes. The Feb. 2025 Archaeology
Report was distributed to the Tribes and DAHP for their review and comment on
March 25, 2025. The two Addendums were uploaded to DAHP’s database
(WISAARD) on June 10 and July 25, 2025. A third Addendum is in process.
• HRA has been conducting archaeological monitoring during geotechnical boring,
geothermal well investigations, pile cap investigations, irrigation line repair and
demolition. The Duwamish and Snoqualmie Tribes were notified and invited to
monitor all site explorations and demolition per their request. The results of the
monitoring on the high school campus were incorporated into the existing report
and addendums. The monitoring results for the demolition activities on adjacent
properties will be the subject of a separate monitoring report.
• Two confidential memorandums were prepared in July 2025, regarding the
project’s potential impacts to archaeological resources. These memorandums
were forwarded to DAHP and the Tribes on August 12, 2025, to facilitate a
meeting and discussions about potential mitigation measures. To date, two
meetings have been held with representatives from DAHP and the Duwamish
Tribe to discuss potential mitigation measures. The District invited the other
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 34
(WAC 197-11-960)
Tribes listed in the bullet point at the beginning of this list, but did not receive
responses to the invitations.
Comments received from DAHP and the Tribes during Archaeological Report review, the
current and two prior SEPA phases include:
• The Suquamish Tribe responded that they have no comments at this time.
• The Duwamish Tribe has commented that they recommend an inadvertent
discovery plan be in place, that they be contacted when archaeological work or
monitoring is performed; that they would like to be present if or when an
archaeologist is on site; and that they recommend that native trees, particularly
culturally modified trees (CMTs), be preserved. The Tribe would like to be
notified if any CMTs are found (note – no CMTs have been found). Per their
request the Duwamish Tribe has been and will continue to be notified prior to
archaeological work or monitoring so that they can be present when an
archaeologist is onsite.The Snoqualmie Tribe responded that they have no
substantive comments to offer at this time. They requested the opportunity to be
onsite during ground disturbing activities for the Phase 2 SEPA. Per their request
the Snoqualmie Tribe of Indians shall be notified prior to archaeological work or
monitoring so that they can be present when an archaeologist is onsite.
• DAHP has commented that they concur with the results and recommendations
provided in the reports and provided additional mitigation measures (included in
(d), below).
• DAHP commented in response to the SEPA Notice in a letter dated Sept. 18, 2025
with comments/recommendations for avoidance of impacts to the precontact
and unevaluated historic-period sites, evaluation for eligibility for listing on the
National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) for historic period sites that cannot be
avoided, and the need to apply for a DAHP permit if impacts to precontact sites
and/or historic-period sites that are eligible for listing in the NRHP cannot be
avoided.
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.
The following measures will avoid or minimize disturbance to resources:
• The project will retain the oldest and most significant built-environment feature
of the campus, the 1932 main building (as well as the 2003 IKEA Performing Arts
Center). The exterior of the historic building will be preserved. New construction
does not add square footage to the building; however, the north wall will be
replaced when the prior building addition is removed. If required, the exterior
improvement shall be undertaken in accordance with the Secretary of Interior
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 35
(WAC 197-11-960)
Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and National Park Service Brief
14, New Exterior Additions to Historic Buildings.
• The later additions to the main building, the gym building, the warehouse and the
playfield are to be demolished, which constitutes an adverse environmental
impact under SEPA. In addition, the project will impact the Moses family
homestead archaeological site, which has not been evaluated for listing in the
NRHP. Three other historic-period debris scatters or concentrations that have not
been evaluated for listing in the NRHP, and one historic-period debris scatter that
HRA recommended as not eligible for listing in the NRHP, will also be disturbed by
the project. Evaluation of the eligible-for-listing historic period sites and
mitigation for impacts to those resources will occur prior to disturbance.
• The District will modify the grading and underground drainage and utility
infrastructure to minimize impacts to historic and cultural resources in the vicinity
of known archaeological and historic sites.
• The proposed new high school building is designed as a three-story structure with
a penthouse level above the third floor. This multi-story design allows for a
smaller and more efficient first-floor footprint, located in the southwestern
portion of the campus. (The campus is located south of the Renton Municipal
Airport, so it must adhere to height limitations imposed by the FAA and the City
of Renton based on air space over the campus and also ground level restrictions
associated with the Runway Protection Zone for the airport.)
• The new building’s mechanical systems will not include a ground source heating
system, which would have resulted in more extensive ground disturbance within
the site.
• Additionally, the District has come to an agreement with the City of Renton to
limit the amount of utility work along Lake Ave S in the western portion of the
campus, which also limits ground disturbance and potential impacts to resources.
• The District is considering multiple opportunities to highlight the history and past
land use on the property and in Renton more broadly to mitigate the Project’s
impacts on the archaeological sites and historic built-environment properties
within the campus. The District has been seeking input from DAHP and the Tribes
on the measures prior to disturbance of these resources.
• Demolition on the newly acquired (SEPA Phase 3) parcels, the school buildings
and all ground disturbing activities shall proceed with a monitoring and
inadvertent discovery plan (MIDP) in place. The MIDP shall make it clear that no
precontact archaeological resource(s) may be disturbed without a permit from
DAHP and that no historic-period archaeological resource that is eligible for listing
in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) may be disturbed without a
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 36
(WAC 197-11-960)
permit from DAHP. The MIDP includes explicit expectations for what would make
a historic-period site eligible for listing in the NRHP.
• In the event that additional cultural materials are identified during site disturbing
activities that would change HRA’s interpretation of the historic-period
archaeological sites’ NRHP eligibility, the activities shall be halted to allow HRA’s
archaeologists to evaluate. If determined eligible for listing on the NRHP, a permit
from DAHP will be required to conduct further work within the site(s) boundary.
• Archaeological survey shall be conducted on the recently acquired parcels (SEPA
Phase 3 properties) as the District acquires/obtains access to them consistent
with the Project’s archaeological work plan (McNulty Perez and Kraemer 2024).
An Addendum report shall be prepared documenting the results of the additional
study. The results of the additional archaeological survey(s) will be submitted to
DAHP and the Tribes in advance of ground disturbing activities on the subject
parcels.
• Additional archaeological work shall be conducted to evaluate historic-period
archaeological sites’ eligibility for listing in the NRHP and assess impacts from the
project.
• The recommendations provided by HRA in the future archaeological reports shall
be followed during all soil disturbing activities.
• Comments and mitigation requests provided by the Tribes and/or DAHP during
SEPA review, the required DAHP permit application review, or review of the
archaeological studies will be addressed. These may be documented in a
memorandum of understanding (MOU) and/or mitigation plan with DAHP and the
affected Tribes.
• The District shall obtain a DAHP Archaeological Site Alteration and Excavation
Permit for impacts to precontact sites and any NRHP-eligible or potentially
eligible historic period archaeological sites. No potentially ground disturbing
activities are allowed in these areas, including staging materials, parking vehicles,
or using site areas to access other work locations, until a DAHP permit is acquired.
14. Transportation
A Transportation Technical Report (Heffron Transportation, Inc., 2025) has been prepared
for the proposed project.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 37
(WAC 197-11-960)
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 school site and the expansion area are bounded by S 2nd St on the south; Logan Ave
S on the east; Airport Way, S Tobin St, and residential properties on the north; and Lake
Ave S, Shattuck Ave S, and private/commercial properties on the west. The school site
currently has nine access driveways; seven are actively used by the school, and two that
serve a gravel parking lot at the southwest corner are gated for construction staging.
The largest main parking lot has one driveway on Logan Ave S (signed for “Buses Only”)
and one driveway on S 2nd St (signed for “Student and Event Parking”). The automobile
load/unload loop at the south side of the school has one entry driveway and one exit
driveway both on the north side of S 2nd St. Parking along the west side of the school
building is accessed from two driveways—one on S 2nd St signed “Staff Parking Only”
and one on S Tobin St signed “Staff and Event Parking.” Finally, there is a
service/delivery area on the north side of the campus with a driveway on S Tobin St,
Within the expansion area the numerous residential and commercial properties have
access driveways.
The proposed project would reconfigure access and parking for the overall campus. The
segments of S Tobin St and S Tillicum St between Shattuck and Logan Ave S would be
vacated to create a consolidated school property. The following describes the proposed
changes to site access.
• The easternmost access driveway on S 2nd St would be removed. The new
expanded student and event parking lot would be accessed from two
driveways—one located at the southwest corner of the site at approximately the
location the existing playfield parking area egress driveway, and one new access
on Lake Ave S.
• Automobile load/unload would be retained at its existing on-site location but
extended west to provide approximately three-times more curb-side
load/unload space. The existing load-zone entry driveway on S 2nd St would be
retained; the load-zone exit driveway would be located at an existing curb cut
(currently serving as an entry-only driveway for the southwest parking area)
opposite Shattuck Ave S. The other two existing site access driveways on S 2nd St
would be removed.
• School bus load/unload would be relocated to a proposed new curb-side load
zone along the west side of Logan Ave S for the entire length of the expanded
school frontage extending between Airport Way and S 2nd St
• Special education (SPED) buses would have an on-site load/unload area
accommodated within the staff parking lot.
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 38
(WAC 197-11-960)
• School-day access to and from the staff parking lot and SPED bus area would
occur from a driveway that would form the east leg of the modified S Tobin St /
Shattuck Ave S intersection. A secondary access driveway to/from the staff
parking area is proposed as the east leg of the Logan Ave S / S Tobin St
intersection. That driveway would remain closed (with gates) during the school
day but would be available for event-related access/egress and for emergency
access.
No other vehicular access driveways are proposed. All access driveways that serve the
existing uses on the parcels that would be acquired and absorbed into the expanded site
would be removed.
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?
King County Metro (Metro) and Sound Transit provide bus transit service to and from
the school’s vicinity. Metro serves the Renton High School directly at its stop located at
the southwest corner of the site on the north side of S 2nd St. This stop has a shelter and
is served by Metro Routes 101,106, 107, 160, and Rapid Ride F. The Renton Transit
Center and City Center Parking Garage (655 S 2nd St) is located at the southeast corner
of the S 2nd St / Logan Ave S intersection (about 500 feet from the school site). The
Renton Transit Center is served by Sound Transit’s Routes 560 and 566 as well as
Metro’s Routes 101, 105, 106, 107, 148, 153, 160, 240, 907, Rapid Ride F Line, and
Access. There are also stops served by several of these routes located along Rainier Ave
S, Logan Ave S, Renton Ave Extension, and S 3rd St. The City Center Parking Garage has
about 560 stalls with free and paid public parking options depending on user needs and
durations. Table 6 in the referenced TTR summarizes the transit service provided near
the site.
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 project would make right-of-way dedications, frontage improvements, and replace
or install accessible curb ramps as required by the City of Renton, including a city-
requested ramp and APS buttons at the southeast corner of S 2nd St and Logan Ave S.
Frontage improvements would be constructed along the south side of Airport Way,
Logan Ave S, S 2nd St, Lake Ave S, S Tobin Stand Shattuck Ave S. Some of the frontage
improvements and/or accessible ramp upgrades would also involve traffic signal
improvements such as pole relocations, pedestrian actuation improvements, and/or
controller box upgrades. The frontage along the north side of S 2nd St would include
right-of-way dedication and construction of a pedestrian walkway consistent with City of
Renton requirements to accommodate the future S 2nd St Conversion Project. An
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 39
(WAC 197-11-960)
enhanced pedestrian crossing is planned for Logan Ave S on the south side of S Tobin St.
The new crossing is proposed to include a pedestrian actuated Rectangular Rapid
Flashing Beacon (RRFB) or half-HAWK signal. The City required improvements along
Shattuck Ave S would include curb bulb-outs with on-street parking. No other changes
to the surrounding off-site roadway network are proposed.
d. Will the project or proposal use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or
air transportation? If so, generally describe.
The project would not use water, rail, or air transportation. However, Renton Municipal
Airport is located directly north of the project site across Airport Way about 115 feet
from the site expansion area. The Cedar River is located northeast of the site about 275
feet from the site expansion area and Lake Washington is located just over a mile north
of the site.
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?
The traffic analysis conducted for this SEPA Checklist and detailed in the Transportation
Technical Report, reflected conditions with the Renton High School Replacement project
complete and increased enrollment to its planned capacity of up to 1,600 students (a
net increase of 211 students compared to the school’s current enrollment capacity). No
reductions in traffic trips were made as a result of the elimination of 30 single-family
dwelling units, 4 duplexes, and 5 commercial buildings to ensure a conservative worst-
case analysis of with-project conditions. Based on daily trip generation rates published
for high schools by the Institute of Transportation Engineers, the replaced and expanded
school is estimated to generate a net increase of about 410 trips per day (205 in, 205
out). The peak traffic volumes would continue to occur in the morning just before
classes begin (net increase of 114 trips between 6:45 and 7:45 A.M.) and in the
afternoon around dismissal (net increase of 72 trips between 1:45 and 2:45 P.M.).
During the most recent two academic years, the school was served by up to 15 full-size
general education buses and 9 to 10 smaller special education (SPED) buses. With the
proposed replacement school operating at full enrollment (1,600 students), the number
of school buses could increase by 3 to 5; the number of SPED buses fluctuates annually
based on student needs. Other truck trips expected to continue serving the site include
deliveries of food and supplies, trash and recycling pick-up, and occasional maintenance.
Overall, school buses and small trucks likely represent about 3 to 5 percent of the total
daily traffic.
For more information about the anticipated school traffic generation, refer to the
Transportation Technical Report (Heffron Transportation, Inc., 2025).
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 40
(WAC 197-11-960)
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.
The proposal would not interfere with the movement of agricultural or forest products
on streets in the area because no agricultural or working forest lands are located within
the vicinity of the project site.
g. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any:
The following physical and operational measures have been incorporated into the
project for implementation during construction and prior to school opening.
Roadway Network: Frontage Improvements
The City will require frontage improvements along five adjacent streets. The following
describes the requirements for each.
• S 2nd St – The project will only provide a dedication for future S 2nd St improvements
that will be made by the City as part of its planned future roadway improvements in
that segment. A waiver will be completed to exempt the school project from S 2nd St
improvements. On-site and north of S 2nd St, the project will provide walkway
connections between the automobile load/unload loop and the school buildings
within the site.
• Airport Way – A new 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to the back
of the existing curb. The project will construct an 8-foot-wide sidewalk adjacent to
the planting strip.
• Shattuck Ave S – New curb and gutter will be installed 15 feet from the roadway
centerline. An 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to the back of the
new curb and a new 5-foot-wide sidewalk will be constructed adjacent to the
planting strip.
• S Tobin St–An 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to the back of the
existing curb. The project will construct a new 5-foot-wide sidewalk adjacent to the
planting strip.
• Lake Ave S – An 8-foot-wide planting strip will be provided adjacent to the back of
the existing curb. The project will construct a new 5-foot-wide sidewalk adjacent to
the planting strip.
• Logan Ave S – The existing roadway pavement 20-feet from roadway centerline will
remain. A new 14-foot-wide roadway pavement section will be constructed with a
new 8-foot-wide school-bus load/unload and parking area. New curb and gutter will
be constructed with a new 12-foot-wide sidewalk and street trees within grates.
Roadway Network: Off-Site Improvements
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 41
(WAC 197-11-960)
In addition to the required frontage improvements, the project will make off-site
improvements at several locations as described below.
• S 2nd St / Logan Ave S Intersection –The project will install two new curb ramps and
a new curb-bulb at the northwest corner; two new curb ramps at the northeast
corner; ramps at the southeast corner with APS buttons, and a single curb ramp at
the southwest corner.
• S Tobin St / Logan Ave S Intersection – The project will construct new curb bulbs on
both sides of Logan Ave S north and south of the S Tobin St intersection. It will also
construct north/south curb ramps for the crosswalk on the east leg and east/west
curb ramps for a new crosswalk on the south leg. The west leg of the intersection
will be constructed as a new school site driveway. The project will install an RRFB or
half-signala pedestrian-activated RRFB, half signal or HAWK signal at the new
crosswalk on the south leg the intersection for pedestrian crossings between the
school and the east side of Logan Ave S. The District shall work with the City staff on
the warrants for the appropriate pedestrian crossing improvement.
• Airport Way / Logan Ave S Intersection – The project will construct a new curb
ramp and a curb-bulb at the southwest corner of the intersection. The other
elements of the intersection will remain unchanged.
• Airport Way / Shattuck Ave S Intersection – The project will construct a new curb
ramp and curb-bulb at the southeast corner of the intersection. The other corners of
the intersections will remain unchanged.
• S Tobin St / Shattuck Ave S Intersection – The project will construct two curb ramps
(one for north-south crossings, and one for east-west crossings) and new curb-bulbs
at the northwest corner of the intersection. It will construct a curb ramp and new
driveway entrance into the site on the east side of the intersection. A curb ramp will
also be constructed at the southwest corner.
• S 2nd St/ Lake Ave S Intersection – The project will construct a curb ramp at the
northeast corner of the intersection to serve crossings of S 2nd Ave to the south. The
southwest, southeast, and northwest corner will remain unchanged.
Roadway Network: Roadway and Curb Signage
Due to the school site expansion, the District will coordinate with the City to confirm
the new equipment required as well as the locations and enforcement times for
school-zone signage and flashing beacons, especially at and around the expanded
portions including, but not limited to, the requirement of zone signage and signals
up to 300 feet from the high school property lines.of the campus. The District will
also coordinate with the City on signage and restrictions for the school-bus load
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 42
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zone proposed along the west side of Logan Ave S between Airport Way and S 2nd
St.
Operational Measures: Short-Term Conditions – Construction
A. Construction Management Plan (CMP) – The District will continue
working with the selected contractor to refine the CMP that addresses
traffic and pedestrian access control during school construction for each
major phase. It will confirm truck routes, lane closures, walkway routes
and closures, and parking disruptions, as necessary. The CMP may also
include measures to keep adjacent streets clean on a daily basis at the
truck exit points (such as street sweeping or on-site truck wheel cleaning)
to reduce tracking dirt off site. The CMP will identify parking locations for
the construction personnel, students, staff, and load/unload areas for
school buses and passenger vehicles during peak arrival and dismissal
periods. It will also include measures to minimize or avoid truck
access/egress and deliveries during school peak arrival and dismissal
periods. During phases when on-site parking is limited, outside user-
group events at the Ikea Performing Arts Center (IPAC) may need to be
limited or restricted. Those events may occur if off-site parking can be
arranged such as through a shared-parking agreement with the City
Center Parking Garage.
Operational Measures: Long-Term Conditions – Operations
B. Transportation Management Plan (TMP) – Prior to the school opening,
the District and school principal will establish a Transportation
Management Plan (TMP) to educate families about the access
load/unload procedures for the site layout. It will encourage school bus
ridership, use of public transit, carpooling, and walking or biking. The plan
will define clear procedures and travel routes for family vehicles and
instruct family drivers not to block or partially block travel lanes with
queued or waiting vehicles. The plan will also address evening event
conditions by identifying appropriate parking locations for attendees, and
or adjusting the schedule or size of events to better accommodate
demand with the available parking supply. A new video detection system
and traffic Point Tilt Zoom (PTZ) camera with associated signal cabinet
equipment may be needed to monitor traffic long term operation and
queuing at pickup and drop off times at the intersection of Logan Ave S
and S 2nd St. The City and District will work together on this operational
improvement.
C. Event Parking Management – It is recommended that the school monitor
concurrent scheduling of the IPAC, black box theater, and other assembly
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(WAC 197-11-960)
spaces (such as the gymnasium during varsity basketball games) to
determine if parking demand could exceed the on-site supply and to
determine if management measures may be required. Options for
parking management during multiple concurrent events may include
directing attendees to off-site parking (such as the City Center Parking
Garage at the southeast corner of the S 2nd St / Logan Ave S intersection
about 500 feet from the school site).
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.
• Electricity: PSE
• Natural Gas: PSE
• Water: City of Renton
• Refuse: Republic Services
• Sanitary Sewer: City of Renton
SEPA Environmental checklist September 2023 Page 44
(WAC 197-11-960)
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
Position and agency/organization: Associate Principal / AHBL
Date submitted: SEPA Notice: September 16, 2025 / MDNS: November 5, 2025 / Modified
MDNS: Dec. 2, 2025