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HomeMy WebLinkAboutD_Shoreline Exemption_Broodstock_210422_v3_FINALDEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT D_Shoreline Exemption_Broodstock_210422_v3_FINAL PLANNING DIVISION CERTIFICATE OF EXEMPTION FROM SHORELINE SUBSTANTIAL DEVELOPMENT AND CRITICAL AREAS REGULATIONS EVALUATION FORM & DECISION DATE OF DECISION: April 26, 2021 PROJECT NUMBER: LUA20-000190, SME, CAE PROJECT NAME: Broodstock Test Borings PROJECT MANAGER: Alex Morganroth, Senior Planner APPLICANT: Michael Norton, SPU 700 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 OWNER: City of Renton 1055 S Grady Way, Renton, WA 98057 CONTACT: Tessa Gardner-Brown 601 Union Street, Ste 600, Seattle, WA 98101 PROJECT LOCATION: Cedar River (Mile 1.7, APN 172305HYDR) and APN 1723059014 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The applicant, Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), is requesting a Shoreline Exemption and Critical Areas Exemption for in-water geotechnical exploration near the existing Broodstock Collection Facility (BCF) at mile 1.7 of the Cedar River. The work will be performed below the ordinary high water mark (OWMH) at the existing BCF facility located immediately upstream from the Interstate 405 bridge (see attached Site Plan). One contingency boring may be collected below the OHWM on the adjacent parcel to the south owned by the City of Renton (APN 1723059014) 1519 Bronson Way N (APN 1723059013) and the unaddressed vacant land to the south located at APN 172305901. The project site is located in the Commercial Office Residential (COR) zoning district. The 1.06 acre upland site to the south is located within a high seismic hazard area, a 100- year flood hazard area (FEMA Zone – AE), a wellhead protection area, and the High Intensity Regulated Shoreline Overlay within Reach C of the Cedar River (CR-C). The borings are necessary for research and site investigative work to support the design of a future upgrade to the existing BCF on the Cedar River. The BCF was constructed to fulfill a mitigation agreement to offset habitat loss for spawning sockeye salmon resulting from the continued operation of the Landsburg Diversion Dam. SPU now intends to upgrade the existing BCF to improve its function. This will increase broodstock capture in order to meet prescriptive fish collection quotas established in the mitigation DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Certificate of Exemption From Shoreline Substantial Broodstock Test Borings , LUA20-000190, SME, CAE Development Permit and Critical Areas Regulations Permit Date: April 26, 2021 Page 2 of 4 D_Shoreline Exemption_Broodstock_210422_v3_FINAL agreement. It will also improve safety by minimizing the level of maintenance required during operation. Two (2) drilled excavations (See attached site plan) are proposed. If the one or both of the two planned borings encounter issues that prevent data collection, a single contingency boring is proposed below the OHWM on the adjacent parcel to the south (APN 1723059014). All proposed work would occur waterward of the OHWM and all BMPs will be followed in order to ensure wildlife is not impacted. The borings will be collected using a sonic drill rig mounted to a portable 20 feet x 40 feet floating barge. The sonic drill will bore 6-inch diameter holes to a maximum depth of 35 feet below ground surface, or until bedrock, whichever is encountered first. The barge would be launched in sections from the existing boat ramp on the adjacent parcel (APN 1723059014). Once in the water, the barge would be anchored to the north river bank using a typical boat anchor or a 2-inch diameter steel rod. Both methods avoid any contact with the retaining wall along the north side of the river. No vegetation is anticipated to be removed as part of the project. If any vegetation removal is necessary, it would be limited to only what is necessary for completion of the project and removed exclusively with hand tools. Any disturbed areas will be restored to their original condition once data has been retrieved from the bore holes. No structures will be constructed as part of the project and all work will be limited to subsurface exploration which is not anticipated to affect the aesthetic quality of the area. The project is not anticipated to interfere with the public use of the trail system. Intermittent closures of the boat ramp will be necessary during barge installation and retrieval. The closures will be governed by the signed Right-of-Entry permit (attached) and incorporated as a condition of approval of this certificate of exemption. The drilling is anticipated to be completed over the course of three days (1 day per boring) in July or August of 2021. SEC-TWN-R: SE17 – 23 - 5 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: (King County Assessor) POR OF GOV LOT 5 IN SW 1/4 LY NLY OF PACIFIC COAST RR B N R R CO TGW POR OF SW 1/4 LY ELY OF STATE HWY SR 405 & NLY OF PACIFIC COAST RR B N RR CO & SLY OF CEDAR RIVER LESS POR LY ELY OF R/W OF NEW CASTLE BRANCH & NELY OF R/W OF BLACK DIAMOND BRANCH C & PS RY & CEDAR RIVER BEING A TRIANGULAR PIECE WATER BODY/REACH: Cedar River, Reach C CRITICAL AREA(S): High Seismic Hazard Area, 100-year Flood Hazard Area (FEMA Zone – AE), and a Wellhead Protection Area CRITICAL AREAS EXEMPTION JUSTIFICATION/DECISION: An exemption from critical area regulations, is hereby CONDITIONALLY APPROVED on the proposed project in accordance with RMC 4.3.050C “Exempt, Prohibited and Nonconforming Activities” and for the following reasons: Site Investigative work is exempt from permit requirements within critical areas and associated buffers in accordance with RMC 4.3.050C.3.b, within Flood Hazard Areas, Geological Hazard Areas, and Wellhead Protection Zones subject to the following standards: DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Certificate of Exemption From Shoreline Substantial Broodstock Test Borings , LUA20-000190, SME, CAE Development Permit and Critical Areas Regulations Permit Date: April 26, 2021 Page 3 of 4 D_Shoreline Exemption_Broodstock_210422_v3_FINAL Site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as surveys, soil logs, percolation tests and other related activities are a permitted use. Investigative work shall not disturb any more than five percent (5%) of the critical area and required buffer. In every case, impacts shall be minimized and disturbed areas shall be immediately restored at a one-to-one (1:1) ratio. The applicant has stated that impacts have been minimized by containing the disturbed area to land within the drill sites with minor impacts anticipated to vegetation and the surrounding area. Restoration of the disturbed areas shall be a condition of approval incorporated into this certificate of exemption. SHORELINE EXEMPTION JUSTIFICATION/DECISION: An exemption from a Shoreline Management Substantial Development Permit is hereby CONDITIONALLY APPROVED on the proposed project in accordance with RMC.4.9190C “Exemption from Permit System’ and for the following reasons: Per RMC 4-9-190.C.1.i, the following shall not be considered substantial developments for the purpose of the Shoreline Master Program and are exempt from obtaining a Shoreline Substantial Development Permit (SSDP): Site exploration and investigation activities that are prerequisites to preparation of an application for development authorization under the Shoreline Master Program, if: i. The activity does not interfere with the normal public use of the surface waters. ii. The activity will have no significant adverse impact on the environment including, but not limited to, fish, wildlife, fish or wildlife habitat, water quality, and aesthetic values. iii. The activity does not involve the installation of a structure, and upon completion of the activity the vegetation and land configuration of the site are restored to conditions existing before the activity. iv. A private entity seeking development authorization under the Shoreline Master Program first posts a performance bond or provides other evidence of financial responsibility to the Planning Division to ensure that the site is restored to pre-existing conditions. v. The activity is not subject to the permit requirements of RCW 90.58.550. CRITICAL AREA EXEMPTION FINDINGS: The proposed development is consistent with the following findings pursuant to RMC section 4-3-050C.2.d: i. The activity is not prohibited by this or any other provision of the Renton Municipal Code or State or Federal law or regulation; ii. The activity will be conducted using best management practices as specified by industry standards or applicable Federal agencies or scientific principles; iii. Impacts are minimized and, where applicable, disturbed areas are immediately restored; iv. Where water body or buffer disturbance has occurred in accordance with an exemption during construction or other activities, revegetation with native vegetation shall be required. v. If a hazardous material, activity, and/or facility that is exempt pursuant to this Section has a significant or substantial potential to degrade groundwater quality, then the Administrator may require compliance with the Wellhead Protection Area requirements of this Section otherwise relevant to that hazardous material, activity, and/or facility. Such determinations will be based upon site and/or chemical-specific data. DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Certificate of Exemption From Shoreline Substantial Broodstock Test Borings , LUA20-000190, SME, CAE Development Permit and Critical Areas Regulations Permit Date: April 26, 2021 Page 4 of 4 D_Shoreline Exemption_Broodstock_210422_v3_FINAL SHORELINE EXEMPTION FINDINGS: The proposed development is consistent with: i. The policies of the Shoreline Management Act. ii. The City of Renton Shoreline Master Program. DECISION: The Broodstock Test Borings Critical Areas and Shoreline Exemption, LUA20-000190, SME, CAE is Approved with Conditions* *CONDITION OF APPROVAL: 1. The applicant shall comply with all the conditions of the City of Renton Right of Entry Permit, attached. 2. The applicant shall restore disturbed areas immediately following the investigation and schedule a restoration inspection with the Current Planning Project Manager, Alex Morganroth, at amorgonroth@rentonwa.gov or (425) 430 -7219. SIGNATURE & DATE OF DECISION: _____________________________________ ______________________________ Vanessa Dolbee, Planning Director Date RECONSIDERATION: Within 14 days of the decision date, any party may request that the decision be reopened by the approval body. The approval body may modify his decision if material evidence not readily discoverable prior to the original decision is found or if he finds there was misrepresentation of fact. After review of the reconsideration request, if the approval body finds sufficient evidence to amend the original decision, there will be no further extension of the appeal period. Any person wishing to take further action must file a formal appeal within the 14-day appeal time frame. APPEALS: This administrative land use decision will become final if not appealed in writing to the Hearing Examiner on or before 5:00 PM on May 10, 2021. An appeal of the decision must be filed within the 14-day appeal period (RCW 43.21.C.075(3); WAC 197-11-680). Due to Governor Jay Inslee’s Proclamation 20-25 (“Stay Home, Stay Healthy”), the City Clerk’s Office is working remotely. For that reason, appeals must be submitted electronically to the City Clerk at cityclerk@rentonwa.gov. The appeal fee, normally due at the time an appeal is submitted, will be collected at a future date. Appeals to the Hearing Examiner are governed by RMC 4-8-110 and additional information regarding the appeal process may be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office, cityclerk@rentonwa.gov. If the situation changes such that the City Clerk’s Office is open when you file your appeal, you have the option of filing the appeal in person. EXPIRATION: Two (2) years from the date of decision (date signed). Attachments: Right-of-Entry Agreement (dated December 1, 2020), Site Plan cc: Matt Herrera, Interim Current Planning Manager DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF 4/26/2021 | 7:19 AM PDT HFHPEHU 0LFKDHO 1RUWRQ 6HDWWOH 3XEOLF 8WLOLWLHV WK YHQXH 6HDWWOH 3(50,66,21 25 5,*+7 2)175<72 5 5,9(5 3$5. 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5 To: Alex Morganroth, City of Renton Copies: Michael Norton and Clay Antieau, Seattle Public Utilities Derek Nelson, McMillen Jacobs Associates From: Ryan Crotty and Tessa Gardner-Brown, Floyd|Snider Date: July 16, 2020 Re: Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation 1.0 Purpose Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) seeks a shoreline letter of exemption to conduct a focused geotechnical investigation to assess subsurface conditions within the Cedar River at the site of the existing sockeye salmon broodstock collection facility (BCF). The information gathered during the geotechnical investigation would inform future upgrades to the BCF and construction approach. A previous geotechnical investigation was completed in 2019 for upland portions of the existing BCF site (refer to LUA19-000013 for the associated shoreline exemption). Both the proposed and former geotechnical investigation are exempt from review under the State Environmental Policy Act per WAC 197-11-800.17. 2.0 Project Location The site subject to the requested shoreline exemption is located below the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) of the Cedar River at the existing BCF site (river mile 1.7) in Renton, Washington, located immediately upstream of the Interstate 405 Bridge (Project Site). Two borings would be collected within the Cedar River (172305HYDR) and one contingency boring could be collected below the OHWM on City of Renton-owned parcel 1723059014. Refer to the Proposed Project’s site plan for more details (Attachment 1). 3.0 Existing Site Conditions 3.1 Land Uses The current land use to the north of the Cedar River includes the City of Renton Cedar River Park and Community Center. The current land use to the south of the Cedar River includes the Cedar River Trail and a concrete boat ramp/driveway that provides public access to the Cedar River. The geotechnical investigation would not interfere with the normal use of either the Cedar River Trail or the City of Renton Cedar River Park or Community Center. EXHIBIT "A" DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 2 of 5 3.2 Natural Features and Shoreline Conditions A Biological Assessment prepared in 2008 for the existing BCF characterized this reach of river as entirely artificial, completely constrained between levees and revetments, and was regularly dredged to prevent flooding from 1916 to the mid-1970s. Within this reach, urban and industrial development have impaired water quality, eliminated natural floodplain connections and riparian corridors, and reduced the amount of large woody debris. This reach is the depositional area for many of the river’s sediments, resulting in higher levels of fine sediments than upstream areas. 4.0 Project Description SPU proposes to collect up to three in-water geotechnical borings (two planned borings, one contingency boring) within the Cedar River. The borings would be completed using a sonic drill rig, floated to the proposed boring locations using a portable barge made up of four 10-foot by 20-foot sections that would be assembled on-site, creating a 20-foot by 40-foot barge. When the barge is launched, dimensional lumber (likely 2 inches by 14 inches) would be placed at the base of the existing access ramp. The lumber would serve as wheel tracks, allowing the portable barge to be placed in water deep enough to accommodate its draft, approximately 17 inches. The lumber would be removed after the barge is launched (after 2 to 4 hours) and placed again and removed when the barge is retrieved from the river. The barge would be anchored on the north side of the river using a typical boat anchor or a 2-inch-diameter steel rod; both techniques would avoid the existing rock wall. On the south side of the river, the barge would use either anchor rods or a strap tied to a tree. The sonic drill rig would bore 6-inch-diameter holes to a maximum depth of 35 feet below ground surface, or until bedrock, whichever is encountered first. Once a hole has been drilled, a screen would be temporarily inserted to assess the porosity of the subsurface conditions. Cores extracted from the bore holes would be taken upland for processing; drill cuttings would be placed in drums for disposal at an appropriate upland location by the subcontractor. After data collection is complete, the bore holes would be decommissioned consistent with Washington State Department of Ecology-approved methods. The geotechnical investigation is anticipated to take up to 3 days (1 day per boring) in July or August 2020. Other approvals that would be required before the geotechnical investigations could include a State Environmental Policy Act exemption, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Hydraulic Project Approval, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers concurrence that no permit is required given that the activities would not discharge fill below OHWM. The anticipated cost for the geotechnical investigation is approximately $76,000. DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 3 of 5 5.0 Exemption Type According to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 173-27-040(2)(m) and Renton Municipal Code (RMC) 4-9-190(C)(12), investigation work within shoreline jurisdiction, which is necessary to support future development applications, is considered exempt from the need to obtain a shoreline permit. The geotechnical investigation is being conducted to support the design of a replacement BCF, for which SPU is currently preparing permit applications. For this reason, the geotechnical investigation work would qualify for a shoreline letter of exemption by state law and the locally adopted Shoreline Master Program (SMP). Although the geotechnical investigation is exempt from the need to obtain a shoreline permit, all shoreline activities, exempt or not, must be consistent with the locally adopted SMP and Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Therefore, a brief consistency analysis between pertinent SMP and SMA regulations and the work is provided below. 6.0 Consistency with Pertinent Shoreline Management Regulations 6.1 Shoreline Management Act According to the SMA’s specific regulations regarding shoreline exemptions for site investigation work that is necessary to support future development applications, codified under WAC 173-27- 040(m)(i-v) and RMC 4-9-190(C)(12), the following prerequisites must be met for investigation work to be categorized as exempt per SMA standards: i. The activity does not interfere with the normal public use of the surface waters; The proposed geotechnical investigation would not result in the construction of a structure or permanent alteration of land that would preclude the public’s normal use of the Cedar River or the surrounding environment. The geotechnical investigation is anticipated to last up to 3 days. This work would occur during the standard weekdays, avoiding times of peak recreational use at and around the Project Site. The work would not occur during City of Renton planned community events. Due to the short duration, the geotechnical investigation would result in negligible interference to the public’s use of the Cedar River. ii. The activity will have no significant adverse impact on the environment including but not limited to fish, wildlife, fish or wildlife habitat, water quality, and aesthetic values; The geotechnical investigation would not have a significant adverse impact to the shoreline environment. Work would be conducted below the OHWM of the Cedar River; however, project impact would be limited to no more than three 6-inch-diameter bore holes that would be naturally restored after the investigation is complete. The following best management practices would be implemented to minimize impacts to habitat or water quality: x Work will be completed during the allowable in-water work window (July 1 to August 31). DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 4 of 5 x A casing will be used to contain the boring operation to prevent sediments or other materials from entering the water. x All waste material from this project will be disposed of at an approved upland location. x Drilling equipment will be checked daily for leaks and be well-maintained to prevent grease, lubricants, or other deleterious materials from entering state waters. x Drilling equipment will be supported by a barge on the river to minimize contact with surface waters. x Bore holes will be decommissioned consistent with Washington State Department of Ecology-approved methods. x A Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan will be developed and implemented that prevents any potential contaminants associated with construction from entering water bodies in the project vicinity. There is no potential for long-term aesthetic impacts because the bore holes would be decommissioned and natural river bedload movement would restore the riverbed to its original condition once investigation work is complete. iii. The activity does not involve the installation of any structure, and upon completion of the activity the vegetation and land configuration of the site are restored to conditions existing before the activity; As stated previously, the geotechnical investigation would not result in the permanent installation of a structure. Furthermore, the disturbed riverbed would be naturally restored to its original condition once the investigation activities are complete. iv. A private entity seeking development authorization under this section first posts a performance bond or provides other evidence of financial responsibility to the local jurisdiction to ensure that the site is restored to preexisting conditions; and The applicant is a public agency. The disturbed riverbed would be restored naturally by river deposition once investigation work is complete. v. The activity is not subject to the permit requirements of RCW 90.58.550; The permit requirements outlined in RCW 90.58.550 pertain to oil or natural gas exploration in marine waters. The Proposed Project is not subject to these requirements. 6.2 City of Renton Shoreline Master Program A consistency analysis between pertinent City of Renton SMP development standards that apply to all activities within the shoreline (RMC 4-3-090(D)), and the geotechnical investigation is provided below. DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 5 of 5 Environmental Effects The following measures would be taken to ensure that the Proposed Project would result in no net loss of ecological function: 1. The extent of disturbance would be kept to the minimum practicable to conduct the geotechnical investigations. The geotechnical investigation would not require more than three total bore holes. Disturbance would be limited to a hole diameter of approximately 6 inches. No other earthwork is proposed. 2. The geotechnical investigation would not alter/remove trees or vegetation along the shoreline or within the river. 3. Bore holes would be decommissioned in accordance with methods approved by the Washington State Department of Ecology. 4. Disturbance would be limited to a maximum of 3 days. In addition to the no-net-loss requirement for any development or activity within shoreline jurisdiction, RMC 4-3-090(D)(2)(c) includes a provision that requires compliance with the City of Renton’s critical areas regulations even if the subject activity is exempt from a shoreline development permit. Because the geotechnical investigation would occur within the Cedar River, compliance with the RMC’s critical areas regulations is required. According to the exempt activities table in the City of Renton’s critical areas regulations RMC 4-3-050(C)), site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as surveys, soil logs, percolation tests, and other related activities is considered an activity exempt from the critical areas regulations, provided that the investigative work does not disturb more than 5 percent of the critical area and associated buffer. This regulation also requires impacts to be minimized and disturbed areas to be immediately restored at a one-to-one ratio. The geotechnical investigation would disturb significantly less than 5 percent of the Cedar River within the Project Site, and all disturbed areas would be naturally restored to their original condition once the data have been retrieved from the bore holes. 7.0 Conclusion As demonstrated in this narrative and the supporting materials that compose the application package, the proposed geotechnical investigation activities are compliant with applicable provisions from the SMA and City of Renton SMP. Therefore, SPU respectfully requests issuance of a shoreline letter of exemption. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1 Site Plan and Neighborhood Map DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF 405 Ce d ar Riv e r C e d a r R iv e rP a rkD rHouser Way N Cedar RiverTrail Parcel ID: 1723059014 50 4035 55 55 60657075 80 35 50 55 45 40 40 35 30 30 45 I:\GIS\Projects\MJA-SPU-BCF\MXD\Cedar River Sockeye Hatchery Broodstock Collection Facility Geotechnical Exploration Phase 2\Site Plan and Neighborhood Map.mxd 7/ 16/2020 Site Plan and Neighborhood Map Seattle Public Utilities Broodstock Collection Facility Geotechnical Investigation Renton, WA Legend In-water Geotech Boring Contingency In-water Geotech Boring OHWM 5-ft Elevation Contour Parcel of Interest Shoreline Jurisdiction Abbreviations:bgs = Below ground surface ft = Feet OHWM = Ordinary high water mark Project Area Seattle Renton 012024060 Scale in Feet ¹Notes:Geotech borings will be up to 35 ft bgs.Parcel boundary and 5-ft elevation contours obtained from King County GIS.Aerial imagery obtained from Nearmap, 2020.Inset basemap tiles by Stamen Design, under CC BY 3.0. Data by OpenStreetMap, DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF Page 1 of 5 To: Alex Morganroth, City of Renton Copies: Michael Norton and Clay Antieau, Seattle Public Utilities Derek Nelson, McMillen Jacobs Associates From: Ryan Crotty and Tessa Gardner-Brown, Floyd|Snider Date: July 16, 2020 Re: Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation 1.0 Purpose Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) seeks a shoreline letter of exemption to conduct a focused geotechnical investigation to assess subsurface conditions within the Cedar River at the site of the existing sockeye salmon broodstock collection facility (BCF). The information gathered during the geotechnical investigation would inform future upgrades to the BCF and construction approach. A previous geotechnical investigation was completed in 2019 for upland portions of the existing BCF site (refer to LUA19-000013 for the associated shoreline exemption). Both the proposed and former geotechnical investigation are exempt from review under the State Environmental Policy Act per WAC 197-11-800.17. 2.0 Project Location The site subject to the requested shoreline exemption is located below the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) of the Cedar River at the existing BCF site (river mile 1.7) in Renton, Washington, located immediately upstream of the Interstate 405 Bridge (Project Site). Two borings would be collected within the Cedar River (172305HYDR) and one contingency boring could be collected below the OHWM on City of Renton-owned parcel 1723059014. Refer to the Proposed Project’s site plan for more details (Attachment 1). 3.0 Existing Site Conditions 3.1 Land Uses The current land use to the north of the Cedar River includes the City of Renton Cedar River Park and Community Center. The current land use to the south of the Cedar River includes the Cedar River Trail and a concrete boat ramp/driveway that provides public access to the Cedar River. The geotechnical investigation would not interfere with the normal use of either the Cedar River Trail or the City of Renton Cedar River Park or Community Center. DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 2 of 5 3.2 Natural Features and Shoreline Conditions A Biological Assessment prepared in 2008 for the existing BCF characterized this reach of river as entirely artificial, completely constrained between levees and revetments, and was regularly dredged to prevent flooding from 1916 to the mid-1970s. Within this reach, urban and industrial development have impaired water quality, eliminated natural floodplain connections and riparian corridors, and reduced the amount of large woody debris. This reach is the depositional area for many of the river’s sediments, resulting in higher levels of fine sediments than upstream areas. 4.0 Project Description SPU proposes to collect up to three in-water geotechnical borings (two planned borings, one contingency boring) within the Cedar River. The borings would be completed using a sonic drill rig, floated to the proposed boring locations using a portable barge made up of four 10-foot by 20-foot sections that would be assembled on-site, creating a 20-foot by 40-foot barge. When the barge is launched, dimensional lumber (likely 2 inches by 14 inches) would be placed at the base of the existing access ramp. The lumber would serve as wheel tracks, allowing the portable barge to be placed in water deep enough to accommodate its draft, approximately 17 inches. The lumber would be removed after the barge is launched (after 2 to 4 hours) and placed again and removed when the barge is retrieved from the river. The barge would be anchored on the north side of the river using a typical boat anchor or a 2-inch-diameter steel rod; both techniques would avoid the existing rock wall. On the south side of the river, the barge would use either anchor rods or a strap tied to a tree. The sonic drill rig would bore 6-inch-diameter holes to a maximum depth of 35 feet below ground surface, or until bedrock, whichever is encountered first. Once a hole has been drilled, a screen would be temporarily inserted to assess the porosity of the subsurface conditions. Cores extracted from the bore holes would be taken upland for processing; drill cuttings would be placed in drums for disposal at an appropriate upland location by the subcontractor. After data collection is complete, the bore holes would be decommissioned consistent with Washington State Department of Ecology-approved methods. The geotechnical investigation is anticipated to take up to 3 days (1 day per boring) in July or August 2020. Other approvals that would be required before the geotechnical investigations could include a State Environmental Policy Act exemption, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Hydraulic Project Approval, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers concurrence that no permit is required given that the activities would not discharge fill below OHWM. The anticipated cost for the geotechnical investigation is approximately $76,000. DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 3 of 5 5.0 Exemption Type According to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 173-27-040(2)(m) and Renton Municipal Code (RMC) 4-9-190(C)(12), investigation work within shoreline jurisdiction, which is necessary to support future development applications, is considered exempt from the need to obtain a shoreline permit. The geotechnical investigation is being conducted to support the design of a replacement BCF, for which SPU is currently preparing permit applications. For this reason, the geotechnical investigation work would qualify for a shoreline letter of exemption by state law and the locally adopted Shoreline Master Program (SMP). Although the geotechnical investigation is exempt from the need to obtain a shoreline permit, all shoreline activities, exempt or not, must be consistent with the locally adopted SMP and Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Therefore, a brief consistency analysis between pertinent SMP and SMA regulations and the work is provided below. 6.0 Consistency with Pertinent Shoreline Management Regulations 6.1 Shoreline Management Act According to the SMA’s specific regulations regarding shoreline exemptions for site investigation work that is necessary to support future development applications, codified under WAC 173-27- 040(m)(i-v) and RMC 4-9-190(C)(12), the following prerequisites must be met for investigation work to be categorized as exempt per SMA standards: i. The activity does not interfere with the normal public use of the surface waters; The proposed geotechnical investigation would not result in the construction of a structure or permanent alteration of land that would preclude the public’s normal use of the Cedar River or the surrounding environment. The geotechnical investigation is anticipated to last up to 3 days. This work would occur during the standard weekdays, avoiding times of peak recreational use at and around the Project Site. The work would not occur during City of Renton planned community events. Due to the short duration, the geotechnical investigation would result in negligible interference to the public’s use of the Cedar River. ii. The activity will have no significant adverse impact on the environment including but not limited to fish, wildlife, fish or wildlife habitat, water quality, and aesthetic values; The geotechnical investigation would not have a significant adverse impact to the shoreline environment. Work would be conducted below the OHWM of the Cedar River; however, project impact would be limited to no more than three 6-inch-diameter bore holes that would be naturally restored after the investigation is complete. The following best management practices would be implemented to minimize impacts to habitat or water quality: • Work will be completed during the allowable in-water work window (July 1 to August 31). DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 4 of 5 • A casing will be used to contain the boring operation to prevent sediments or other materials from entering the water. • All waste material from this project will be disposed of at an approved upland location. • Drilling equipment will be checked daily for leaks and be well-maintained to prevent grease, lubricants, or other deleterious materials from entering state waters. • Drilling equipment will be supported by a barge on the river to minimize contact with surface waters. • Bore holes will be decommissioned consistent with Washington State Department of Ecology-approved methods. • A Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan will be developed and implemented that prevents any potential contaminants associated with construction from entering water bodies in the project vicinity. There is no potential for long-term aesthetic impacts because the bore holes would be decommissioned and natural river bedload movement would restore the riverbed to its original condition once investigation work is complete. iii. The activity does not involve the installation of any structure, and upon completion of the activity the vegetation and land configuration of the site are restored to conditions existing before the activity; As stated previously, the geotechnical investigation would not result in the permanent installation of a structure. Furthermore, the disturbed riverbed would be naturally restored to its original condition once the investigation activities are complete. iv. A private entity seeking development authorization under this section first posts a performance bond or provides other evidence of financial responsibility to the local jurisdiction to ensure that the site is restored to preexisting conditions; and The applicant is a public agency. The disturbed riverbed would be restored naturally by river deposition once investigation work is complete. v. The activity is not subject to the permit requirements of RCW 90.58.550; The permit requirements outlined in RCW 90.58.550 pertain to oil or natural gas exploration in marine waters. The Proposed Project is not subject to these requirements. 6.2 City of Renton Shoreline Master Program A consistency analysis between pertinent City of Renton SMP development standards that apply to all activities within the shoreline (RMC 4-3-090(D)), and the geotechnical investigation is provided below. DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF City of Renton July 16, 2020 Shoreline Permit Exemption Request for Focused Geotechnical Investigation Page 5 of 5 Environmental Effects The following measures would be taken to ensure that the Proposed Project would result in no net loss of ecological function: 1. The extent of disturbance would be kept to the minimum practicable to conduct the geotechnical investigations. The geotechnical investigation would not require more than three total bore holes. Disturbance would be limited to a hole diameter of approximately 6 inches. No other earthwork is proposed. 2. The geotechnical investigation would not alter/remove trees or vegetation along the shoreline or within the river. 3. Bore holes would be decommissioned in accordance with methods approved by the Washington State Department of Ecology. 4. Disturbance would be limited to a maximum of 3 days. In addition to the no-net-loss requirement for any development or activity within shoreline jurisdiction, RMC 4-3-090(D)(2)(c) includes a provision that requires compliance with the City of Renton’s critical areas regulations even if the subject activity is exempt from a shoreline development permit. Because the geotechnical investigation would occur within the Cedar River, compliance with the RMC’s critical areas regulations is required. According to the exempt activities table in the City of Renton’s critical areas regulations (RMC 4-3-050(C)), site investigative work necessary for land use application submittals such as surveys, soil logs, percolation tests, and other related activities is considered an activity exempt from the critical areas regulations, provided that the investigative work does not disturb more than 5 percent of the critical area and associated buffer. This regulation also requires impacts to be minimized and disturbed areas to be immediately restored at a one-to-one ratio. The geotechnical investigation would disturb significantly less than 5 percent of the Cedar River within the Project Site, and all disturbed areas would be naturally restored to their original condition once the data have been retrieved from the bore holes. 7.0 Conclusion As demonstrated in this narrative and the supporting materials that compose the application package, the proposed geotechnical investigation activities are compliant with applicable provisions from the SMA and City of Renton SMP. Therefore, SPU respectfully requests issuance of a shoreline letter of exemption. LIST OF ATTACHMENTS Attachment 1 Site Plan and Neighborhood Map DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF !( !( !( §¨¦405 Cedar River C e d a r R iverParkDrHouser Way NCedarRiverTrail Parcel ID:1723059014 50 4035 55 55 6065707580 35 50 55 45 40 4035 30 30 45 I:\GIS\Projects\MJA-SPU-BCF\MXD\Cedar River Sockeye Hatchery Broodstock Collection Facility Geotechnical Exploration Phase 2\Site Plan and Neighborhood Map.mxd7/16/2020 Site Plan andNeighborhood Map Seattle Pu blic U tilitiesBroodstock Collection FacilityGeotechnical InvestigationRenton, WA Legend !(In-water Geotech Boring !( Contingency In-waterGeotech Boring OHWM 5-ft Elevation Contour Parcel of Interest Shoreline Jurisdiction Abbreviations: bgs = Below ground surface ft = Feet OHWM = Ordinary high water mark ProjectArea Seattle Renton 0 120 24060 Scale in Feet ¹ Notes: · Geotech borings will be up to 35 ft bgs. · Parcel boundary and 5-ft elevation contours obtained from King County GIS. · Aerial imagery obtained from Nearmap, 2020. · Inset basemap tiles by Stamen Design, under CC BY 3.0. Data by OpenStreetMap, under ODbL. DocuSign Envelope ID: 502F5B52-FACA-4638-9ECC-42E809C890EF