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HomeMy WebLinkAboutECF_5_COR GE 230306_SEPA_checklist_Final v3_crb (2) SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 1 of 20 SEPA 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. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 2 of 20 A. Background [HELP] 1. Name of proposed project, if applicable: Cedar River 205 Levee Certification Project 2. Name of applicant: City of Renton 3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person: Chester Bennett City of Renton Public Works Department 1055 S. Grady Way, 5th Floor, Renton, WA 98057 cbennett@Rentonwa.gov 425-430-7205 4. Date checklist prepared: 3/6/2023 5. Agency requesting checklist: City of Renton 6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable): Currently, construction of the project is scheduled to start in summer 2024, pending CLOMR approval and receipt of applicable environmental permits. Construction is anticipated to take approximately 2 years to complete, tentatively concluding in summer 2026. It should be noted that the project schedule is only a likely representation of what the actual schedule may be and that variations in work timing and possible phasing may occur due to funding, contractor delays, or adverse weather conditions. A generalized construction schedule at each improvement location follows: • Install TESC measures and construction BMPs • Clearing and grubbing • Pavement removal / sawcut (if applicable) • Stripping and excavation • Compacted fill/base course • Install wall footings (if applicable) • Fill and compact earthen embankments to meet freeboard requirement (if applicable) • Install walls or raise walls (if applicable) • Levee overbuild/regrading • Roadway / curb / sidewalk restoration with concrete and/or asphalt (if applicable) • Other site restoration; utilities, signage, hardscape structures (if applicable) • Landscaping/replanting and associated habitat mitigation SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 3 of 20 7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or connected with this proposal? If yes, explain. The levee repairs associated with this project are part of an ongoing levee maintenance program as part of the Cedar River at Renton Flood Damage Reduction Project, which was constructed under authority of Section 205 of the 1948 Flood Control Act. The “Levee Operations and Maintenance Manual” describes these measures in further detail (Tetra Tech 2018). Therefore, the current repairs identified as part of this project are interrelated to other aspects of the flood risk and flood management within the Cedar River basin. Other flood management actions associated with this basin include dredging and repairs at other levee locations. In addition, City of Renton is investigating various short- and long-term measures to reduce the risk of flooding to identify future flood risk mitigation projects within the basin. Reference: Tetra Tech, 2021. Updated Operations and Maintenance Manual, Cedar River 205 Levee Certification. Prepared for the City of Renton. August 2021. 8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be prepared, directly related to this proposal. • Biological Assessment (GeoEngineers, February 2022) • Riparian Impacts Mitigation Plan (GeoEngineers, October 2021) • Hazardous Material Discipline Report (GeoEngineers, February 2022) • Levee Modification Analysis Report (GeoEngineers, February 2022) • Critical Areas Assessment Report (GeoEngineers, October 2021) • Settlement Analysis Letter (GeoEngineers, 2021) • Cultural Resources Assessment (ESA, 2022) 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. • Section 205 of Flood Control Act Approval (United States Army Corps of Engineers) • NEPA Review (United States Army Corps of Engineers) 10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known. • Hydraulic Project Approval (Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife) • Conditional Letter of Map Revision (Federal Emergency Management Agency) • Shoreline Exemption (City of Renton) 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.) The City of Renton (City) is proposing to complete the Cedar River 205 Levee Certification Project, which consists of improvements to the existing Cedar River SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 4 of 20 levee system to meet current flood design standards necessary for levee certification. The existing flood protection system is located on both banks of the lower Cedar River within the limits of the City of Renton, Washington. The system consists of earthen levee embankments (levees) and floodwalls along both banks of the lower 1.25 miles of the Cedar River between the river mouth at Lake Washington and the Logan Avenue N bridge. As part of the recertification process, deficiencies in the flood protection system have been identified and will be corrected. 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 project reach is located on the Cedar River upstream (south) from its mouth at the south end of Lake Washington in Renton, Washington, within Township 23 North, Range 5 West, Sections 7 and 18. Proposed improvements are located from just upstream (south) of the Logan Avenue N bridge downstream (north) to the river mouth at Lake Washington, which defines the project reach (site) for purposes of analysis. Additionally, the proposed improvements occur at discrete locations within the project reach where deficiencies have been documented and do not encompass the entire levee system; analysis of impacts was therefore limited to the specific areas where improvements are proposed. B. Environmental Elements [HELP] 1. Earth [help] a. General description of the site: (circle one): Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountainous, other ____river banks and adjacent terrace_________ b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)? The river banks are typically armored in most areas with riprap and/or concrete and include slopes as steep as approximately 2:1 in some locations. 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. The site is located at the southern extent of Lake Washington in an alluvial valley adjacent to the Cedar River. Within the project area, the Cedar River flows in a channel created in 1912 to divert the Cedar River away from its previous confluence with the Black River, to the west, and instead into Lake Washington. As a result, observed geologic conditions within the alluvium might not be consistent with those expected in a natural river system. The “Geologic Map of the Renton Quadrangle, King County, Washington” (D.R. Mullineaux 1965) maps the project area as land of industrial or urban setting extensively or sporadically SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 5 of 20 altered by placement of artificial fill. Shoreline deposits from Lake Washington and alluvium from the Cedar River underlie the artificial fill. d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If so, describe. The City of Renton does not map any landslide hazard areas near the project locations. 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. The proposed levee improvements include modifications at eleven sites / areas, three of which consist of only mitigation planting and clearing work. The remaining eight sites / areas include hardscape and levee improvements as well as some mitigation and planting work as well. All eleven sites / areas are associated with the existing levee and floodwall system along both the left and right banks of the Cedar River. A summary of the proposed locations and description of improvements are provided below: All sites considered together will result in a Collective Total Net Fill of 43 CY. Area 1 – North Mitigation Area i. Stationing: USACE Right Bank Sta 15+20 – 16+50 ii. Description: Replant area with native plantings & remove invasives to provide mitigation for project work iii. Total Area: n/a iv. Total Excavation = 2 CY v. Total Fill = 2 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 0 CY b. Common Borrow = 0 CY c. Topsoil = 2 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 0 CY Area 2 – Middle Mitigation Area i. Stationing: USACE Right Bank Sta 30+50 – 31+00 ii. Description: Replant area with native plantings & remove invasives to provide mitigation for project work iii. Total Area: n/a iv. Total Excavation = 2 CY v. Total Fill = 2 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 0 CY b. Common Borrow = 0 CY c. Topsoil = 2 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 0 CY Area 3 – South Mitigation Area vii. Stationing: USACE Right Bank Sta 43+50 – 45+25 viii. Description: Replant area with native plantings & remove invasives to provide mitigation for project work ix. Total Area: n/a x. Total Excavation = 2 CY xi. Total Fill = 2 CY SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 6 of 20 a. Levee Embankment Fill: 0 CY b. Common Borrow = 0 CY c. Topsoil = 2 CY xii. Net Fill / Excavation = 0 CY Area 4 – South Boeing Bridge Area i. Stationing: USACE Right Bank Sta 49+30 – 50+30 ii. Description: Improve floodwall to levee transition iii. Total Area: 2713 sf iv. Total Excavation = 195 CY v. Total Fill = 259 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 175 CY b. Common Borrow = 50 CY c. Topsoil = 34 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 64 CY Area 5 – Stadium Parking Lot Area i. Stationing: USACE Right Bank Sta 63+30 – 64+30 ii. Description: Raise levee embankment iii. Total Area: 1717 sf iv. Total Excavation = 110 CY v. Total Fill = 143 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 80 CY b. Common Borrow = 35 CY c. Topsoil = 28 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 33 CY Area 6 – Senior Center Area i. Stationing: USACE Right Bank Sta 65+90 – 68+50 ii. Description: Raise and extend existing concrete retaining wall iii. Total Area: 1900 sf iv. Total Excavation = 150 CY v. Total Fill = 104 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 80 CY b. Common Borrow = 0 CY c. Topsoil = 24 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 46 CY Area 7 – Airport Weather Station Area i. Stationing: USACE Left Bank Sta 18+50 – 19+50 ii. Description: Improve transition from levee embankment to wall iii. Total Area: 791 sf iv. Total Excavation = 85 CY v. Total Fill = 70 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 45 CY b. Common Borrow = 0 CY c. Topsoil = 10 CY SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 7 of 20 d. Rip Rap = 15 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 15 CY Area 8 – Airport Wall Raise Area i. Stationing: USACE Left Bank Sta 26+50 – 33+50 ii. Description: Raise floodwall and raise embankment with curb wall iii. Total Area: 1296 sf iv. Total Excavation = 75 CY v. Total Fill = 67 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 50 CY b. Common Borrow = 0 CY c. Topsoil = 17 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 8 CY Area 9 – East Perimeter Rd MSE Wall Area i. Stationing: USACE Left Bank Sta 55+40 – 56+90 ii. Description: Widen levee embankment with retaining wall iii. Total Area: 2170 sf iv. Total Excavation = 245 CY v. Total Fill = 238 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 150 CY b. Common Borrow = 0 CY c. Topsoil = 28 CY d. Crushed Surfacing Base Course = 43 CY e. Cement Concrete = 12 CY f. Hot Mix Asphalt = 5 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 7 CY Area 10 – Sub Shop Area i. Stationing: USACE Left Bank Sta 58+00 – 60+00 ii. Description: Construct floodwall, reconstruct damaged floodwall, and raise levee embankment iii. Total Area: 2132 sf iv. Total Excavation = 185 CY v. Total Fill = 207 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 135 CY b. Common Borrow = 35 CY c. Topsoil = 27 CY d. Pipe Backfill = 10 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 22 CY Area 11 – Sidewalk Repair Area i. Stationing: USACE Right Bank Sta 65+50 ii. Description: Replace sidewalk iii. Total Area: 533 sf iv. Total Excavation = 13 CY v. Total Fill = 13 CY a. Levee Embankment Fill: 0 CY SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 8 of 20 b. Common Borrow = 3 CY c. Topsoil = 0 CY d. Crushed Surfacing Base Course = 5 CY e. Cement Concrete = 5 CY vi. Net Fill / Excavation = 0 CY f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally describe. Erosion could occur as a result of clearing and construction. The risk of erosion occurring as a result of construction will be reduced through the use of best management practices (BMPs) such as wood chip mulch, straw wattles or silt fences. The City of Renton will develop a temporary erosion and sediment control plan (TESC) to prevent erosion at the site during construction. All bare soils will be protected with arborist wood chip mulch or slash after project completion. g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)? The project will result in a slight increase (536 SF) in total impervious surfaces within the total site due to the installation or expansion of concrete walls and hard surfaces for sidewalks and roadway. These surfaces will be the small footprints and are unlikely to result in significant increases in runoff at each site / area. h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if any: Construction procedures within riparian/shoreline areas have been designed to minimize the opportunity for erosion to occur. The potential for sediment erosion and spills will be controlled through proper implementation of BMPs. The TESC plan will be fully implemented as part of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Construction techniques will utilize BMPs such as those described in the most recent version of Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) Standards and Specifications for Road, Bridge, and Municipal Construction (WSDOT 2022) and Washington State Department of Ecology’s (Ecology) Stormwater Management Manual for Western Washington (Ecology 2019), and as required by the City of Renton stormwater code. Appropriate erosion control measures will be erected at appropriate locations according to the SWPPP. 2. Air [help] 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. Sources of emissions during construction include fugitive dust and construction equipment exhaust. The quantities of emissions generated and transported off-site from the project site will depend upon wind and weather conditions, but are anticipated to be minor and of short duration. Odors from construction materials may occur and engine exhaust will be present during construction. No long-term sources of air emissions associated with the operational phase of this project are anticipated. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 9 of 20 b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal? If so, generally describe. There are no known off-site sources of emissions that will affect the proposed project. c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any: Standard emission control devices, in conformance with federal and state air quality standards will be utilized during construction. Dust control BMPs, including wetting of exposed soil surfaces and/or use of approved soil tackifiers, will be implemented as needed by the contractor to limit dust-generating sources. Efficient construction practices and timely restoration of areas of temporary disturbance will further reduce dust-generating sources. 3. Water [help] a. Surface Water: [help] 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 project reach is located adjacent to the Cedar River at the south end of Lake Washington in Renton, Washington. According to RMC 4-3-050(L)(1)(a)(i), the Cedar River is considered a Class 1 stream because it is classified as a Shoreline of the State. Class 1 streams are not subject to Renton’s Critical Areas Regulations, but are instead regulated under the SMP Regulations (RMC 4-3-050(B)(1)(j)(iii); RMC 4-3- 090(D)(2)(c)(iii)). The shoreline jurisdiction extends 200 feet from the OHWM, within which proposed uses and activities are subject to the SMP (RMC 4-3-090(B)(3)(a)). Within this jurisdictional area, the standard vegetation conservation buffer width is 100 feet from the OHWM (RMC 4-3-090(F)(1)(a)), within which vegetation “shall be managed to provide the maximum ecological functions feasible” (RMC 4-3- 090(F)(1)(i)). 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. The majority of the project will involve work within 200 feet of the Cedar River. The work is described in detail above in Section B.1.e. 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 or wetlands. 4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions? Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known. No. 5) Does the proposal lie within a 100-year floodplain? If so, note location on the site plan. Yes. Portions of the earthwork are located within the 100-year floodplain of the Cedar River. 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. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 10 of 20 No. b. Ground Water: [help] 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 general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known. No. 2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from septic tanks or other sources, if any (for example: 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. Not applicable. 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. Minor improvements to the stormwater collection and conveyance system are proposed for this project at the Senior Center, Area 7, and at the Sub Shop, Area 10. The source of runoff from each area will be sheet flow across landscaping and gravel areas. This is not a change from the existing conditions and surface coverage. All runoff will continue to be discharged into the Cedar River and Lake Washington as the ultimate receiving water body. 2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe. It is not anticipated that waste materials will enter ground or surface waters. 3) Does the proposal alter or otherwise affect drainage patterns in the vicinity of the site? If so, describe. No. d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water, and drainage pattern impacts, if any: The City of Renton will develop a SWPPP to manage temporary stormwater impacts during construction of the project. 4. Plants [help] a. Check the types of vegetation found on the site: _ X__deciduous tree: alder, maple, aspen, other __X__evergreen tree: fir, cedar, pine, other __X__shrubs __X__grass ____pasture ____crop or grain SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 11 of 20 ____ 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 b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered? The project completely avoids impacts below the OHWM. Impacts to vegetated critical areas will be limited. Where the levee alignment is immediately adjacent to the river, the concrete floodwall will generally be maintained at the immediate edge of existing road infrastructure, thereby minimizing impacts to riparian vegetation. There will be approximately 13,000 SF of temporary impacts and 300 SF of permanent impacts to shrubs and turf grass due to construction. The existing riparian vegetation that will be affected is mostly comprised of invasive shrubs and grass. However, there are several native trees by the Logan Avenue Bridge that will be impacted. c. List threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site. No threatened or endangered plant species are known to be 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: In-kind compensatory mitigation for riparian buffer impacts is proposed through the removal of invasive vegetation and the installation of native plants within riparian buffer areas near the project impact areas. The project includes approximately 21,000 SF of on-site vegetation mitigation and 20 trees off-site as mitigation. Vegetation removed in equipment access and staging areas on the left bank is primarily invasive. These areas will be restored using native seed mixes and shrub plantings, in accordance with levee and airport restrictions, following completion of construction. Native communities, once they are established, are expected to provide greater levels of riparian function than existing communities. Restoration will use fast-growing species that are anticipated to become established within as little as one to two years. However, there will still be a short-term loss of functions that riparian vegetation provides during and immediately after construction work. Proposed plantings have been specified to ensure compliance with USACE regulations for vegetation on and around the constructed flood control levees and walls. Increasing riparian vegetation at the banks will create overwater shading and increase invertebrate habitat along the margins of the river. These effects will improve habitat quality and quantity as well as increase food sources for salmonids. Reduction of predator habitat will also provide beneficial effects to salmonids. Areas temporarily impacted during construction will be revegetated with a native vegetation seed mix. Additional plantings within the riparian buffer will consists of a mix of native trees and shrubs. e. List all noxious weeds and invasive species known to be on or near the site. Typical invasive species located on the site include Japanese knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum), reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea), Himalayan blackberry (Rubus armeniacus) and Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius). SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 12 of 20 5. Animals [help] a. List any birds and other animals which 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: fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other ________ b. List any threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site. According to WDFW (2023), Cedar River supports fall Chinook salmon (Onchorynchus tshawytscha), bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus), and winter steelhead trout (O. mykiss) throughout the project reach. Reference: Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) 2023. Statewide Washington Integrated Fish Distribution. https://geo.nwifc.org/SWIFD/ c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain. Yes. The site is located along the Cedar River which is a migration route for Chinook salmon (Onchorynchus tshawytscha), coho salmon (O. kisutch), sockeye salmon (O. nerka), bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus), resident cutthroat trout (O. clarkii) and winter steelhead trout (O. mykiss). The site is also located within the Pacific Flyway, a migratory route for many bird species. d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any: Temporary alteration of riparian habitat associated with the Cedar River is anticipated to result from construction of proposed levee improvements. Temporary habitat alteration consists of disturbance of grass, shrubs and trees, which will be removed during construction and subsequently restored. Vegetation that will be removed is primarily invasive or lacking in habitat function (e.g., manicured landscape shrubs and grass). However, in some areas, native trees and/or shrubs will be affected. In a few locations, alteration of riparian habitat is permanent, due to either (1) displacement of the existing habitat by levee infrastructure, and/or (2) restrictions on replanting/restoring affected areas due to levee vegetation standards or the occurrence of underground utilities. GeoEngineers has developed a riparian habitat mitigation plan to document impacts to riparian habitat and associated mitigation (GeoEngineers 2021). Temporarily impacted areas will be restored with an equivalent or more functional habitat type than what is removed. For example, grass areas will typically be replaced with grass turf, landscaping shrubs will be replaced with either landscaping shrubs or native shrubs, and invasive species communities will be replaced with native trees and shrubs. Permanently impacted areas will either be replaced with a lower functioning habitat type, for example where levee vegetation standards restrict the ability to replant trees, or will be completely displaced by proposed improvements. Permanent impacts are extremely limited for this project and will be mitigated using adjacent on- site compensatory mitigation, as documented in the Mitigation Plan (GeoEngineers 2021). SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 13 of 20 Native communities installed as restoration and compensatory mitigation, once they are established, are expected to provide greater levels of riparian function than existing communities they replace. Restoration and mitigation plantings will specify fast-growing species that are anticipated to become established within one to two years. However, there will still be a short-term temporal loss of functions that riparian vegetation provides during and immediately after construction work, which is accounted for by proposing mitigation ratios that exceed 1:1. Therefore, the net effects of vegetation impacts and restoration/mitigation are expected to be similar to or slightly beneficial with regard to habitat conditions relative to baseline conditions. Increasing riparian vegetation at the banks will create overwater shading and increase invertebrate habitat along the margins of the river. These effects will improve habitat quality and quantity as well as increase food sources for salmonids. e. List any invasive animal species known to be on or near the site. No invasive animal species are known to be on the site. 6. Energy and Natural Resources [help] 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. Not applicable. b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties? If so, generally describe. No. 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: No energy conservation features are included in this proposal. 7. Environmental Health [help] a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic chemicals, risk of fire and explosion, spill, or hazardous waste, that could occur as a result of this proposal? If so, describe. There is a risk of fire or a spill from construction equipment; however, the use of proper BMPs will reduce this risk. The proposed project will not increase any environmental health hazards. 1) Describe any known or possible contamination at the site from present or past uses. The Washington State Department of Ecology Water Quality Atlas Map depicts the Cedar River as on the 303(d) list: Category 5: 303(d) list for temperature, bacteria, and dissolved oxygen. The Water Quality Atlas also depicts the following contaminants: Category 4B: HPAH, LPAH, PCB Category 2: Mercury, Copper Category 1:Temperature, Ammonia-N, pH, Arsenic, and bacteria. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 14 of 20 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. Puget Sound Energy (PSE) has gas mains as well as high pressure gas mains within the project site. These gas mains have been located and potholed to verify size and depth which have impacted the design of infrastructure and construction activities within the project site limits. PSE has provided review and comment on the construction plans. Stormwater drains and sanitary sewer lines are located within the vicinity of the project, but will not be affected by project construction. 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. Gasoline and diesel will be used and potentially stored onsite during project construction. No toxic or hazardous chemicals will be stored or used onsite after project completion. 4) Describe special emergency services that might be required. The potential exists for a gasoline explosion and diesel and gasoline spills from equipment during construction. A diesel or gasoline spill could occur during equipment refueling or operation. If a spill were to occur the contractor would be required to immediately contain the spill and implement appropriate cleanup procedures. The possibility of an explosion is very unlikely provided the contractor follows State safety rules. 5) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any: Construction BMPs will be used in conjunction with a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures plan developed for project construction b. Noise 1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example: traffic, equipment, operation, other)? No existing noises will affect the proposed project 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)? Indi- cate what hours noise would come from the site. A short-term increase in noise will result from construction activities which will include the use of heavy equipment. Construction will be generally confined to normal daytime weekday hours, with the possibility of some work on Saturdays. After project completion, there are no anticipated long-term noise impacts. 3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any: Construction will be generally limited to daylight hours 8. Land and Shoreline Use [help] SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 15 of 20 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. There are three bridges within the project reach, including (from upstream to downstream): Logan Avenue Bridge, South Boeing Bridge and North Boeing Bridge. Renton Municipal Airport is located west of the left bank of the lower river, downstream of Logan Avenue. Boeing facilities and a public park (Cedar River Trail Park) are located east of the right bank of the lower river, and other commercial, industrial and residential developments are present upstream (south) from Logan Avenue. Within the project reach, between river mile 0 and 1.23, the Cedar River is a constructed channel that historically has required periodic maintenance dredging to reduce the bed elevation and ensure flood protection to surrounding areas. The river is channelized through the project reach and the banks are armored in numerous areas with riprap, concrete, gabion baskets and/or wood retaining walls. Vegetation within the riparian zone along this stretch of the Cedar River is comprised of a mix of: mature native trees and shrubs; recently planted native trees, shrubs and herbaceous species that were installed as mitigation for the most recent maintenance dredging cycle, which was completed in 2016; park landscaping trees, shrubs and mowed grasses; unmaintained grass areas; and sections dominated by invasive species. The proposal will not affect current land uses on nearby or adjacent properties. 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 as a result 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? No. 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. c. Describe any structures on the site. Structures on site consist of the existing concrete floodwall, levee embankment, paved sidewalks, and concrete / asphalt recreational paths. d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what? No structures will be demolished. e. What is the current zoning classification of the site? The project is located within three zoning classifications: Industrial-Medium, Industrial-Heavy, and Urban Center. f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site? The project is located within Employment Area and Commercial Mixed Use. g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the site? Shoreline-High Intensity SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 16 of 20 h. Has any part of the site been classified as a critical area by the city or county? If so, specify. The project is located adjacent to the Cedar River, a critical area and Shoreline of the State. i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project? The completed project may be visited on a routine basis for maintenance and inspection, but no personnel will work or reside full time at the site j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace? None. k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any: None required. L. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and projected land uses and plans, if any: The proposed project will be designed consistent with City of Renton requirements. m. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts to agricultural and forest lands of long-term commercial significance, if any: None. 9. Housing [help] a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-income housing. None. b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-income housing. None. c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any: None. 10. Aesthetics [help] 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 height of the proposed concrete reinforced floodwall is 3.5-ft above the finished ground surface. b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed? The project will not alter or obstruct views in the immediate vicinity. b. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any: A pattern / stamping treatment will be used on the face of the retaining wall at the Senior Center location to provide visual interest and variety due to the setting and use of this property. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 17 of 20 11. Light and Glare [help] a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would it mainly occur? No new lighting is proposed with the project. b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with views? No c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal? No existing sources of light or glare will affect this proposal. d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any: None proposed. 12. Recreation [help] a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate vicinity? Portions of the project are located adjacent to the Cedar River Trail Park, Liberty Park, and Cedar River Park. These parks provide walking trails and access points to the Cedar River. b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so, describe. No c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including recreation opportunities to be provided by the project or applicant, if any: None proposed. 13. Historic and cultural preservation [help] 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. Per the Cultural Resource Assessment (ESA 2022), one historic aged built environment property was recorded at the reconnaissance level as a part of this assessment. The structure, located at 30 Logan Avenue South, is adjacent to, but not within the Project’s Area of Potential Effects (APE). 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. According to the Cultural Resource Assessment (ESA 2022), no archaeological sites or isolates were recorded during the surface and subsurface archaeological survey. Based on the results of the cultural resources assessment, ESA extended a recommendation of No Historic Properties Affected (ESA 2022). 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. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 18 of 20 The ESA Cultural Resources Assessment included a surface survey (walking transects across the APE, subsurface survey (four shovel probes), and an archival resources review which included review of previous archaeological survey reports, recorded cultural resources, historic register-listed properties, ethnographic studies, historical maps, government landowner records, aerial photographs, regional histories, geological maps, soils surveys, and environmental reports. Per the ESA Cultural Resources Assessment, information from the following sources were reviewed in order to identify recorded cultural resources, including archaeological sites, properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), Washington Heritage Register (WHR), and the Heritage Barn Register, cemeteries, and Traditional Cultural Properties (TCPs), within the APE, as well as the sensitivity for unrecorded resources. Research included review of the Washington Information System for Architectural and Archaeological Records Data (WISAARD) system maintained by the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP), digital collections of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), King County, University of Washington Libraries, Washington State Archives, City of Renton, and resources within ESA’s research library. 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. Cultural Resources Assessment (ESA 2022), recommends that an Inadvertent Discovery Plan (IDP) be established for the Project. The IDP will establish procedures for project staff to follow in the event that cultural resources or human remains are encountered during construction of the Project. 14. Transportation [help] 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 project site can be accessed along East Perimeter Road, Nishikwaki Lane, and Logan Ave N. 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? The general area of the project site is served by public transit. There are multiple bus stops along Logan Ave near the project site. c. How many additional parking spaces would the completed project or non-project proposal have? How many would the project or proposal eliminate? No additional parking spaces are proposed or will be eliminated by the project. d. 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 will not require major improvements to any operations or functional intents of the existing transportation infrastructure. Minor impacts will be repaired in kind and small amounts of addition roadway shoulders and sidewalk treatments will be added. e. Will the project or proposal use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or air transportation? If so, generally describe. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 19 of 20 Rail: No Air: No Water: Yes, the project is located adjacent to the Cedar River. Vehicular: Yes, public streets, and the Boeing Renton factory. f. 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 proposed project is unlikely to generate additional vehicular trips g. 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. No h. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any: None proposed 15. Public Services [help] 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. The proposed project will not increase the need for public services b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any. None proposed 16. Utilities [help] 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. Not applicable C. Signature [HELP] 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. Signature: ___________________________________________________ Name of signee Chester Bennett PE / [David Conlin] Position and Agency/Organization Project Manager City of Renton / [Biologist Geoengineers] Date Submitted: 3/8/2023. SEPA Environmental checklist (WAC 197-11-960) July 2016 Page 20 of 20