HomeMy WebLinkAboutC_Duwamish Tribe comments_06292026DUWAMISH TRIBE
Jun 29, 2026
City of Renton
Variance & Critical Areas Exemption LUA26- 000209
Dear Ashley Wragge,
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the PSE SWARR Station Security Maintenance to
replace a security fence covering an area approximately 4 acres with height from 8 to 12 feet tall
located at 2100 Benson Dr S in Renton. The Duwamish Tribe understands that 354 trees were
inspected at and around the site of which 59 trees are to be removed due to lack of viability (42) or
impede construction of fencing (17). Based on the information provided and our understanding of
the project and its APE, the Duwamish Tribe concurs that an inadvertent discovery plan is
appropriate, especially if any groundbreaking activity occurs below fill, topsoil or other impervious
surfaces into native soil. This is an area that the Duwamish Tribe considers culturally significant and
has a Moderate probability of having unknown archaeological deposits. We note that there are 5
ancestral place names within about a mile of the project location. The DAHP WISAARD predictive
model indicates that an archaeological survey is recommended with a moderate risk for
encountering cultural resources.
The Duwamish Tribe requests that if any archaeological work or monitoring is performed, we would
like notification. Cultural and archaeological resources are non-renewable and are best discovered
prior to ground disturbance. The Tribe would also like the opportunity to be present if or when an
archaeologist is on site.
In addition, the Tribe supports removal of invasive plant species and planting of native vegetation for
the project to enhance habitat for fish and wildlife, and native avian life and native pollinators. The
Tribe supports observing critical area tracts and stream buffers to preserve any remaining wetlands
and stream buffers. Loss of wetland habitat is known to affect the viability of fish, water quality and
increase the effects of seasonal urban flooding.
We also strongly recommend that native trees in the APE, particularly culturally modified trees
(CMTs) are preserved. Mature trees can be of profound cultural significance to the Duwamish Tribe
and provide innumerable benefits for people, climate, and wildlife. If a tree is suspected to be
culturally modified, the Duwamish Tribe would like to be notified and would like the opportunity to
come to the site to ensure its protection.
Lastly we request that any permanent lighting associated with the project be dark sky compliant to
reduce light pollution. Darkened skies were favorable conditions to practice traditional life
pathways.
Thank you,
Duwamish Tribal Historic Preservation
Duwamish Tribe | 4705 W. Marginal Way SW, Seattle, WA 98106 | 206-431-1582
www.duwamishtribe.org