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HomeMy WebLinkAboutDRAFT_2024 Utilities Element_for Public Review_4.11.24 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 1 Draft 1.0  Draft Revised: DATE Utilities Renton Comprehensive Plan Update  Element Policies Draft Draft # : Updated: Discussion 2015 The Utilities Element guides future utility service within Renton’s planning area and ensures that adequate utility services will be available to support existing and future development in the City. The goals and policies included in the Utilities Element are designed to promote efficient, cost-effective utility service while meeting community needs and protecting both existing neighborhoods and the natural environment. The City of Renton provides water, wastewater, and surface water utility services to Renton residents, as well as some areas outside City boundaries. The City contracts with a private hauler for solid waste and recycling collection and coordinates with King County for use of regional solid waste disposal facilities. Several non- City utility providers also operate within Renton, providing water and sewer service for developed areas that have been annexed. Other non-City utilities include electric, natural gas, and telecommunications (cable television, internet, wired telephone, and cellular telephone/data services). Under the Growth Management Act, planned land use patterns and growth must be supported by adequate levels of utility service. The Utilities Element must therefore ensure that adequate levels of utility service are available to serve the levels of growth that are discussed in the Land Use Element. Functional plans for each utility system must also accommodate projected growth in their respective service areas, based on these adopted growth allocations. A detailed discussion of City utility system capacity and the City’s adopted growth allocations is contained in Appendix C: Land Use Assumptions and Utility Plans, which is hereby adopted by reference. The relationship of the Land Use Element, Utilities Element, and City utility functional plans is shown in Figure U-1. Major challenges related to the provision of utility services include the following: Recent annexations have created large areas of the City, mostly in southeastern Renton, where water and/or sewer service is provided by non-City providers. Much of the City’s existing wastewater infrastructure is approaching the end of its useful life and will require replacement in the near future. New requirements for implementation of Low Impact Development (LID) are included in the NPDES Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit for Western Washington, issued by the Department of Ecology in 2012. These requirements may affect development patterns in Renton and may result in new methods for handling stormwater runoff. Increased use of on-site infiltration may affect aquifer recharge and groundwater quality. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Discussion Revised 2024 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 2 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Discussion Revised 2024 The Utilities Element guides future utility service within Renton’s planning area and ensures that adequate utility services will be available to support existing and future development. The Utilities Element goals and policies are designed to promote ecologically sustainable, reliable and cost-effective utility service while meeting current and future needs and protecting the natural environment. The City of Renton provides water, wastewater, and surface water utility services to Renton residents and some areas outside city boundaries, but within the water and wastewater service area boundaries. The City contracts with a private hauler for solid waste collection and coordinates with King County to use regional solid waste disposal facilities. Several non-city utility providers (Water and/or Sewer Districts) also operate within Renton, providing water and sewer service for annexed, developed areas within their established water and sewer service area boundaries. Other non-City utilities include power, natural gas, and telecommunications (cable television, internet, wired telephone, and cellular telephone/data services). Under the Growth Management Act, levels of utility service must support planned land use patterns and growth. The Utilities Element must ensure that adequate levels of utility service are available to serve the growth planned for in the Land Use Element. Based on these adopted growth allocations, functional plans for each utility system must also accommodate projected growth in their respective service areas. A detailed discussion of Renton’s utility system capacity and the adopted growth allocations is contained in Appendix C: Land Use Assumptions and Utility Plans, which is hereby adopted by reference. Major challenges related to the provision of utility services include the following: ▪ Annexations have created large areas, mostly in southeastern Renton, where water and/or sewer service is provided by an entity other than the City of Renton. ▪ The City water, wastewater and surface water utilities existing infrastructure requires on-going rehabilitation and replacement due to age and condition to increase the useful life of the infrastructures to maintain reliable service and to serve future growth. ▪ Increasing state and federal stormwater regulations from the Western Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit issued by the Department of Ecology every 5 years will have significant impacts to the Surface Water Utility. ▪ Increased use of on-site infiltration may affect aquifer recharge and groundwater quality. Newer requirements may affect development patterns in Renton and may result in new methods for handling stormwater runoff. ▪ Extending sewer service to areas within the city’s Wastewater Utility service area (inside the city and in the PAA) to support new development and converting existing properties that are on septic systems to city sewer system, especially properties that have failing septic systems, is challenging physically and financially, but important for achieving the adopted growth allocations, protecting the environment and public health. ▪ New and changing federal and state drinking water regulations related to emerging contaminants of concern (PFAS) and the Lead and Copper Rule are regulatory challenges for the city Water Utility that are needed to comply with to ensure safe drinking water for existing and future growth. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Goals: Overall COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 3 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals: Overall Table 1. Overall Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-A: Provide an adequate level of public utilities consistent with land use, protection of the environment, and annexation goals and policies. U-A: Provide an adequate level of public utilities service that is sustainable, reliable, and consistent with land use, protection of the environment, and annexation goals and policies. ▪ Incorporate climate consideration and reliable. 2 U-B: Ensure the long-term protection of the quality and quantity of the groundwater resources of the City of Renton in order to maintain a safe and adequate potable water supply for the City. U-B: Ensure the long-term protection of the quality and quantity of groundwater resources of the City of Renton in order to maintain a safe and adequate potable water supply. ▪ The City is responsible for ensuring groundwater resources for its planning areas, which extend outside the city’s boundaries. 3 -- U-C: Provide equitable service to all customers. ▪ Prioritize equity in utility service provision. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Policies: Overall COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 4 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies: Overall Table 2. Overall Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-1: All utility services and systems should be consistent with the growth projections and development concepts established in this Comprehensive Plan. Policy U-1: All utility services and systems should be consistent with the growth projections and development concepts established in this Comprehensive Plan. ▪ No change proposed. 2 Policy U-2: Protect the health and safety of Renton citizens from environmental hazards associated with utility systems through the proper design and siting of utility facilities. Policy U-2: Protect the health and safety of Renton residents from environmental hazards associated with utility systems through the proper design, construction, maintenance, operation, and siting of utility facilities. ▪ Incorporate specific, inclusive language. ▪ Revised for clarity. 3 Policy U-3: Promote co-location of new utility infrastructure within rights-of-way and utility corridors, and coordinate construction and replacement of utility systems with other public infrastructure projects to minimize construction- related costs and disruptions. Policy U-3: Promote co-location of new utility infrastructure within rights-of-way and utility corridors, and coordinate construction and replacement of utility systems with other public infrastructure projects to minimize construction- related costs and disruptions. ▪ No change proposed. 4 Policy U-4: Coordinate with adjacent jurisdictions and non-City service providers within Renton to cooperatively plan for regional growth. Policy U-4: Coordinate with adjacent jurisdictions and other service providers within Renton to cooperatively plan for regional growth. ▪ Revised for clarity. 5 Policy U-5: Approval of development should be conditioned on the availability of adequate utility service and should not result in decreases in local levels of service for existing development. All new development should be required to pay their fair share of construction costs for necessary utility system improvements. Policy U-5: Approval of development should be conditioned on the availability of adequate utility service. All new development should be required to pay their fair share of construction costs for necessary utility system improvements. ▪ Revised for clarity. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Policies: Overall COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 5 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 6 Policy U-6: Encourage the use of water and energy conservation technologies to provide utility services in an environmentally responsible manner. Policy U-6: Encourage the use of water and energy conservation technologies to provide utility services in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. ▪ Incorporate climate consideration. 7 Policy U-7: Non-City utility systems should be constructed in a manner that minimizes negative impacts to existing development and should not interfere with operation of City utilities. City development regulations should otherwise not impair the ability of utility providers to adequately serve customers. Policy U-7: Non-city utility systems should be constructed in a manner that minimizes negative impacts to existing development and should not interfere with operation, maintenance, and future replacement of City utilities. City development regulations should not impair the ability of utility providers to adequately serve customers. ▪ Revised for clarity. 8 Policy U-8: Encourage the use of new technology to increase the quality and efficiency of utility service and utility system management. Policy U-8: Encourage the use of new technology to increase the quality and efficiency of utility service and utility system management. ▪ No change proposed. 9 Policy U-50: Protect, restore, and enhance environmental quality through land use plans, surface water management programs, park master programs, urban forestry programs, transportation planning, development review, and incentive programs; work with citizens, land owners, and public and private agencies. Policy U-X: Protect, restore, and enhance environmental quality through land use plans, stormwater management action plans, surface water management programs, park master programs, urban forestry programs, transportation planning, and development review; work with residents, land owners, and public and private agencies. ▪ Moved to ‘Overall’ section because the policy objective of environmental quality is broader than surface water management. ▪ Revised for accuracy. ▪ Revised for inclusive language. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 6 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 City Managed Water Discussion 2015 The Renton Water System is a publicly owned water system operated by the City of Renton as a self-supporting enterprise utility. Operations and system planning are guided by the City of Renton Comprehensive Water System Plan (2012) and the provisions of Chapter 246-290 of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), Group A Public Water Supplies. The City provides water service to an area of approximately 16 square miles, generally coincident with City boundaries, though portions of northeastern and southeastern Renton (East Renton Plateau and Benson Hill) are currently served by non-city water providers. Figure UT-2 shows the boundaries of the City’s water service area and those of adjacent water purveyors. The City’s water supply is from a combination of groundwater wells, Springbrook Watershed, and a partial contract with Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) for Boeing facilities. City water sources represent 95% of the City’s supplies and the SPU agreement represents 5%. There are also emergency interties with adjacent cities. The current capacity of the City’s active supply wells is 19,450 gallons per minute (gpm), or 27.29 million gallons per day (mgd). Emergency wells and interties with adjacent water systems can provide an additional 14,695 gpm (21.16 mgd). The City also maintains two interties with Seattle Public Utilities dedicated to supplying water to the Boeing’s Renton Plant and an intertie with the Skyway Water and Sewer District, which purchases water wholesale from Renton. The City’s water system also includes a network of ten storage reservoirs, consisting of underground concrete and steel tanks, above-ground steel tanks, elevated steel tanks and standpipes, and covered concrete-lined surface reservoirs. The overall gross storage volume available is approximately 22.88 million gallons. Detailed descriptions of the City’s supply wells, storage reservoirs, and all interties with other systems are included in the Comprehensive Water System Plan. Discussion Revised The Renton Water System is a publicly owned water system operated by the City of Renton as a self-supporting enterprise utility. The City of Renton Water System Plan Update (2021) and the provisions of Chapter 246-290 of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC), Group A Public Water Supplies, guide operations and system planning. The City provides water service to an area of approximately 17 square miles, generally coincident with city boundaries, though portions of northeastern and southeastern Renton (East Renton Plateau and Benson Hill) are currently served by other water providers. Figure UT-2 shows the boundaries of the City’s water service area and those of adjacent water purveyors. The City’s water supply is from a combination of groundwater wells, Springbrook Springs, and a partial water supply contract with Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) to provide water service to Boeing Renton Plant and to meet future water supply demands that exceed the certificated water rights for all of the city’s water supply sources. City water sources provide 99.5% of the City’s water demand and SPU provides 0.5%. There are also emergency interties with adjacent cities and water districts. The current capacity of the City’s active supply wells is 15,350 gallons per minute (gpm), or 22.10 million gallons per day (mgd). Interties with Seattle Public Utilities can provide an additional 7,195 gpm (10.36 mgd). The City also maintains two interties with Seattle Public Utilities dedicated to supplying water to the Boeing’s Renton Plant and an intertie with the Skyway Water and Sewer District, which purchases water wholesale from Renton. The City’s water system also includes a network of eleven storage reservoirs, consisting of underground concrete and steel tanks, above-ground steel tanks, elevated steel tanks and standpipes, and covered concrete-lined surface reservoirs. The overall gross storage volume available is approximately 24.16 million gallons. Detailed descriptions of the City’s supply wells, storage reservoirs, and all interties with other systems are included in the Comprehensive City of Renton Water System Plan Update (2021). S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 7 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 3. City Managed Water Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-C: Provide and maintain a consistent, ample, and safe water supply for the City and future service areas through system planning consistent with anticipated development. U-C: Provide and maintain a consistent, ample, and safe water supply for current and future service areas through system planning consistent with anticipated development. ▪ Updated for clarity and accuracy. 2 U-D: Protect water supply resources and ensure that groundwater quality is not negatively impacted by future development. U-D: Protect water supply resources and ensure that groundwater quality is not negatively impacted by development. ▪ Updated for clarity and accuracy. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 8 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 4. City Managed Water Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-9: Provide and maintain water supply, infrastructure, and service consistent with projected population growth within the City’s service area, as established in the Land Use Element and the Water System Comprehensive Plan. Policy U-9: Provide and maintain water supply, infrastructure, and service consistent with projected population and job growth within the City’s water service area, as established in the Land Use Element and the Water System Plan. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. 2 Policy U-10: Extend water service within the City’s water service area in an orderly manner to serve anticipated growth and development in accordance with the Land Use Element. Policy U-10: Extend water service within the City’s water service area in an orderly manner to serve anticipated growth and development in accordance with the Land Use Element. ▪ No change proposed. 3 Policy U-11: Ensure adequate water supply to meet both average and maximum daily demand. Employ monitoring of water supply sources and withdrawal limits as necessary to comply with State issued water rights certificates and permits. Policy U-11: Monitor water supply sources and withdrawal limits as necessary to comply with State issued water rights certificates and permits. ▪ Revised for clarity and to reduce redundancy. 4 Policy U-12: Maintain and upgrade the water system to deliver adequate water flow and storage for fire protection to all customers and facilities connected to the City water system. Policy U-12: Maintain and upgrade the water system to deliver adequate water flow and storage for fire protection to all customers and facilities connected to the City water system. ▪ No change proposed. 5 Policy U-13: Continue maintenance and upgrades to the water system to ensure water quality that meets or exceeds all health requirements. Policy U-13: Continue water system maintenance and upgrades to ensure water quality that meets or exceeds all health requirements. ▪ Revised for clarity. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 9 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 6 Policy U-14: Coordinate with non-City water providers operating within Renton and neighboring jurisdictions where the City has extended water service to accommodate road construction and other public works projects. Policy U-14: Coordinate with non-City water providers operating within Renton and neighboring jurisdictions where the City has new road construction or utility improvements. ▪ Revised for clarity. Policy U-15: Practice and support water resource management that achieves a maximum net benefit for all citizens and promotes enhancement of the natural environment. Policy U-15: Practice and support sustainable water resource management that achieves a maximum net benefit for all water utility customers and promotes enhancement of the natural environment. ▪ Incorporate climate consideration. ▪ Incorporate inclusive language. Policy U-16: Actively promote voluntary water conservation and coordinate with Seattle Public Utilities to meet regional water conservation goals. Policy U-16: Promote voluntary water conservation and coordinate with Seattle Public Utilities to meet regional water conservation goals. ▪ Remove “actively” to simplify policy language. Policy U-17: Implement the City’s Wellhead Protection Plan and Aquifer Protection Program to preserve groundwater quality. Policy U-17: Implement the City’s Wellhead Protection Plan and Aquifer Protection Program to preserve groundwater quality. Policy U-18: Emphasize the use of stormwater management techniques that maximize water quality and infiltration where appropriate, which will not endanger groundwater quality. Policy U-18: Emphasize the use of stormwater management techniques to maximize water quality and infiltration where appropriate, which will not endanger groundwater quality. ▪ Revised for clarity. Policy U-19: Promote the use of interlocal agreements with other agencies to restrict land use in sensitive aquifer recharge areas to minimize possible sources of pollution and the potential for erosion, and to increase infiltration. Policy U-19: Promote the use of interlocal agreements to restrict land use in sensitive aquifer recharge areas to minimize possible sources of pollution, the potential for erosion, and to increase infiltration. ▪ Revised for clarity. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 10 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 City Managed Wastewater Discussion 2015 The Renton sewer system is a publicly owned wastewater system operated by the City of Renton as a self-supporting enterprise utility. Operations and system planning are guided by the City of Renton Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan. The City collects wastewater from a service area of approximately 21.68 square miles, with approximately 3.91 square miles located outside City limits. Primary collection of wastewater is achieved through gravity sewer lines, though the City maintains a series of lift stations and force mains to overcome changes in topography. Collected wastewater is discharged to King County wastewater facilities, where it is ultimately transmitted to the King County South Treatment Reclamation Plant for treatment. Some portions of the City are not served by municipal sewer, and are instead connected to non-City sewer districts. Figure U-3 shows the boundaries of the City’s sewer service area and those of adjacent service providers. Sewer system capacity is dependent on a number of factors, including adequately sized pipes to collect wastewater, properly sloped pipes to allow adequate gravity flow, the capacity of downstream treatment facilities to accept wastewater, and the level of inflow and infiltration into the system. An updated hydraulic computer model of the City’s wastewater system was completed in 2019, and the City uses this model to evaluate the effects of changes to the sewer system resulting from new development, changes to the existing system, or future population growth. Hydraulic modeling does not show any current capacity deficiencies in the City’s system, but capacity is projected to become an issue at various locations as the City nears the “ultimate build-out” year of 2030. King County’s handling of wastewater flows from the Renton system also contributes to potential capacity issues. During peak flows, King County interceptor lines are sometimes used to store wastewater while the South Treatment Plant is temporarily over-capacity or when flows to the treatment plant need to be limited for other reasons. When these interceptor lines cannot flow freely, they may cause back-ups in connected systems, including Renton. During such conditions, the City system has experienced sewer surcharging in low-lying areas, resulting in wastewater overflowing through manhole covers and side sewer connections. Much of Renton’s existing sewer infrastructure dates from the 1940’s and 1950’s, installed as part of federal programs to provide housing for workers at the Renton Boeing Plant. Sewer infrastructure in the Central Business District is even older, much of it dating from the 1920’s and 1930’s. These facilities have reached the end of their useful life and many are in need of replacement. The Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan establishes a list of recommended capital improvements to the sewer system, ranked in priority order, which includes extensive replacement of wastewater collection pipes, elimination or replacement of lift stations, and rehabilitation or improvement of aging interceptor lines. A complete list of proposed capital improvements is included in Chapter 6 of the Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan. Inflow results from storm water flowing into the sewer system, either during a storm incident or from an illegal connection. Infiltration results from groundwater entering the sewer system through leaking pipe joints, cracks, or other defects in the sewer system. While some level of Inflow/Infiltration (I/I) is unavoidable, excessive volumes can place a strain on the system, taking up valuable conveyance and treatment capacity with relatively clean water. The City participates in King County’s regional I/I management program by implementing I/I reduction techniques, such as minimizing vent holes, sealing manholes in wet areas, and conducting video inspections of sewer lines to check for leaks. Older sewer infrastructure is more susceptible to I/I, and the City has identified priority areas for investigation and replacement. A complete discussion of the City’s I/I monitoring efforts is contained in the Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 11 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Discussion Revised 2024 The Renton sanitary sewer system is a publicly owned wastewater system operated by the City of Renton as a self-supporting enterprise utility. The City of Renton Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan (2022) guides operations and system planning. The City collects wastewater from a service area of approximately 22.11 square miles, with approximately 3.09 square miles located outside city limits. Primary collection of wastewater is achieved through gravity sewer lines, though the City maintains a series of lift stations and force mains to overcome changes in topography. Collected wastewater is discharged to King County wastewater facilities, where it is ultimately transmitted to the King County South Treatment Reclamation Plant for treatment. Some areas of the City are served by non-City sewer districts. Figure U-3 shows the boundaries of the City’s sewer service area and those of adjacent service providers. Sewer system capacity depends on several factors, including adequately sized pipes to collect wastewater, properly sloped pipes to allow adequate gravity flow, sufficient capacity of downstream treatment facilities to accept wastewater, and the level of inflow and infiltration into the system. An updated hydraulic computer model of the City’s wastewater system was completed in 2019 to evaluate the effects of changes to the sewer system resulting from new development, changes to the existing system, or future population growth. Hydraulic modeling shows current capacity in the City’s system is near its limit. Capacity is projected to become an issue at various locations as the City nears the “ultimate build-out” year of 2030. King County’s handling of wastewater flows from the Renton system also contributes to potential capacity issues. During peak flows, King County interceptor lines are sometimes used to store wastewater while the South Treatment Plant is temporarily over-capacity or when flows to the treatment plant need to be limited for other reasons. When these interceptor lines cannot flow freely, they may cause back-ups in connected systems, including Renton. During such conditions, the City system experiences sewer surcharging in low-lying areas. Installed as part of federal programs to provide housing for workers at the Renton Boeing Plant, much of Renton’s existing sewer infrastructure dates from the 1940s and 1950s. Sewer infrastructure in the Central Business District is older, dating from the 1920s and 1930s. These facilities have reached the end of their useful life, and many need replacing. The Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan establishes a list of recommended capital improvements to the sewer system, ranked in priority order, which includes extensive replacement of wastewater collection pipes, elimination or replacement of lift stations, and rehabilitation or improvement of aging interceptor lines. A complete list of proposed capital improvements is included in Chapter 8 of the Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan. Inflow and Infiltration results from groundwater entering the sewer system through leaking pipe joints, cracks, structural defects in the sewer system, and illegal connections. While some level of Inflow/Infiltration (I/I) is unavoidable, excessive volumes can strain the system, taking up valuable conveyance and treatment capacity with relatively clean water. Renton participates in King County’s regional I/I management program by implementing I/I reduction techniques, such as minimizing vent holes, sealing manholes in wet areas, and conducting video inspections of sewer lines to check for leaks. Older sewer infrastructure is more susceptible to I/I, and the City has identified priority areas for investigation and replacement. The Long-Range Wastewater Management Plan provides a complete discussion of the City’s I/I monitoring efforts. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 12 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 5. City Managed Wastewater Goals Review Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-E: Ensure the availability of an adequate level of sanitary sewer service through system planning that is consistent with land use, environmental protection, and annexation goals and policies. U-E: Ensure the availability of an adequate level of sanitary sewer service through system planning that is consistent with land use, environmental protection, and annexation goals and policies. ▪ No change proposed 2 U-F: Provide and maintain a sanitary sewer collection system that is consistent with the public health and water quality objectives of the State of Washington and the City of Renton. U-F: Provide and maintain a sanitary sewer collection system that is consistent with the public health and water quality objectives of the State of Washington and the City of Renton. ▪ No change proposed S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 13 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies: Table 6. City Managed Wastewater Policies Review Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-20: Sewer facilities and services should be consistent with the growth and development concepts expressed in the Land Use Element. Extension of sewer service should be coordinated with expected growth and development. Policy U-20: Sewer facilities and services should be consistent with the growth and development concepts expressed in the Land Use Element. Extension of sewer service should be coordinated with expected growth and development. ▪ No change proposed. 2 Policy U-21: All new development should be required to connect to the sanitary sewer system, except properties that have adequate soils to support on-site septic systems, are zoned for low density single family residential development, located away from environmentally sensitive areas, and outside Aquifer Protection Areas. Policy U-21: All new development in the wastewater utility service area are required to connect to the sanitary sewer system, except properties that have adequate soils, are greater than 200 feet from an existing main, are outside of the city’s Aquifer Protection Areas and are zoned for low density residential development on lots of sufficient size to support on-site septic systems. ▪ Revised for clarity and accuracy. 3 Policy U-22: Projected sewage flows from development should be calculated based on adopted land use plans and policies. These projections should be used as a guide in developing the wastewater Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The CIP should be updated as land use plans and policies are revised. Policy U-22: These projections should guide the wastewater Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The CIP should be updated as land use plans and policies are revised. ▪ Revised to focus on the CIP. 4 Policy U-23: Coordinate with non-City sewer providers operating within Renton and neighboring jurisdictions where the City has extended sewer service to accommodate road construction and other public works projects. Policy U-23: Coordinate with non-City sewer providers operating within Renton and neighboring jurisdictions where the City has extended sewer service to accommodate road construction and other public works projects. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 14 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 5 Policy U-24: Timely and orderly extension of the sewer system should be provided within the City’s existing and future service areas to meet public health requirements. Policy U-24: Timely and orderly extension of the sewer system should be provided within the City’s service areas to meet public health requirements. ▪ Revised for clarity. 6 Policy U-25: Sewer system improvements supporting areas of the City projected to experience high levels of growth should be prioritized to ensure that sewer service is concurrent with anticipated growth. ▪ Removed to reduce redundancy. 7 Policy U-26: Protect surface and groundwater quality through coordination with King County to reduce surcharging conditions that may cause wastewater overflows. Policy U-26: Coordinate with King County to reduce surcharging conditions that may cause wastewater overflows and protect surface and groundwater quality for Renton. ▪ Reorganized to begin with relevant verb. 8 Policy U-27: Continue coordination with King County Wastewater Division regarding Inflow/Infiltration reduction initiatives, system improvements, and interconnections between City and County sewer infrastructure. Policy U-27: Coordinate with King County Wastewater Division regarding Inflow/Infiltration reduction initiatives, system improvements, and interconnections between city and county sewer infrastructure. ▪ Revised for clarity. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 15 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 City Managed Surface Water Discussion 2015 Renton’s surface water system consists of natural streams, rivers, wetlands, and lakes, and constructed systems that manage drainage, provide flood protection, and water quality treatment. Surface water management is important to meet social, economic, and ecological needs including flood protection, erosion control, water supply, groundwater recharge, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreation. Impervious surfaces in an urban, growing community such as Renton can affect surface and groundwater quality through stormwater runoff containing pollutants from roads and parking lots and landscaping. Impervious surfaces can also decrease groundwater recharge and increase the quantity of peak flows of runoff, causing stream channel scouring, sedimentation, and loss of habitat. The existing surface water drainage system is meeting capacity requirements under normal conditions. However, in some areas of the City, the system has become inadequate to serve present needs during large, infrequent storm events. In more developed areas of the City within the Lower Cedar River and Lake Washington East Basins, problems include flooding and ponding caused by inadequately sized pipes, ditches and detention facilities. In other areas of the City, such as the Black River Basin, loss of wetlands and fish passage are concerns, as well as, development occurring within the watershed, both inside and outside the City. In areas where redevelopment is likely such as the Renton Urban Center, Sunset Area, and other centers, redeveloped properties would be required to provide water quality treatment, which could improve water quality over present conditions. Additionally, as new development and redevelopment occur, Low Impact Development (LID) practices would be implemented to conserve native soils and vegetation, protect hydrologic processes (e.g., infiltration), and reduce and treat overland stormwater flow to more closely match native forest or prairie conditions. Selected examples of LID techniques include bioretention planters, rain gardens, and permeable sidewalks. LID works to provide water quality treatment and reduce stormwater flow. Renton’s Surface Water Utility manages stormwater and surface water in Renton’s city limits which has grown from about 17 square miles in the year 2000 to 24 square miles in 2013. Figure U-4 illustrates the Surface Water Utility service area and its component drainage basins. The Utility develops policies, basin plans, development design standards, and capital improvement projects in order to maintain and restore the quality of Renton’s lakes and rivers, improve drainage, and reduce flooding. The Utility coordinates with the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding flood hazard management. The Utility also coordinates with multiple state, county, and city agencies to conduct watershed planning for the Green River/Duwamish and Cedar River/Lake Washington Watersheds. The City currently operates a storm system maintenance program that includes cleaning catch basins, pipes and other facilities, along with a street vacuum sweeping program. The maintenance programs remove sediment and pollutants from City-owned and operated storm systems and streets, which reduces flooding and non- point source pollution from being discharged into water bodies in the City. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 16 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 The Utility also provides public education on how homeowners and businesses can help minimize impacts to surface waters such as by using natural lawn care, and avoiding discharges or spills entering drains or waterways. As the City redevelops and annexes territory, greater demand is placed on the Utility to provide planning, regulatory oversight, capital project implementation, and maintenance services it provides today. The Utility is responsible for meeting federal and state stormwater requirements. A significant effort for the Utility is compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Stormwater Permit. This permit requires the Utility to control discharge of pollutants to protect surface water and to develop and implement a stormwater management program addressing: ▪ Public education and outreach ▪ Public involvement and participation ▪ Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) ▪ Controlling runoff from new development, redevelopment, and construction sites ▪ Pollution prevention and good housekeeping for municipal operations and maintenance ▪ Post construction stormwater management for new development & redevelopment, including LID ▪ Monitoring ▪ Annual reporting and record keeping of compliance with NPDES permit requirement. Approximately 87 percent of Renton's water is supplied by the Cedar Valley Aquifer, with the rest coming from Springbrook Springs. As Renton's primary water source, the Cedar Valley Aquifer has been designated a "sole source" by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; no federal financial assistance can be given to a project which might contaminate the aquifer. The City has identified aquifer protection area (APA) zones. Development projects located in either Zone 1, Zone 1 Modified, or Zone 2 of the Aquifer Protection Area (APA) are required to pass additional City review to ensure the projects do not produce water quantity and/or quality impacts that may affect the aquifer. Areas of particular concern include areas subject to vehicular traffic or the storage of chemicals. In some areas, infiltration systems are not allowed and could increase runoff, requiring new facilities to be larger. If the new NPDES Phase II requirements result in changes to quality or quantity of runoff and infiltration, the City’s aquifer protection regulations could require review and amendments. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 17 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Discussion Revised 2024 Renton’s surface water system consists of natural streams, rivers, wetlands, and lakes, and constructed systems that manage drainage, provide flood risk reduction, and protect surface water quality. Surface water management is important to meet social, economic, and ecological needs including flood risk reduction, erosion control, water supply, groundwater recharge, fish and wildlife habitat, and recreation. Impervious surfaces in an urban, growing community such as Renton can affect surface and groundwater quality through stormwater runoff containing pollutants from roads, parking lots, and landscaping. Impervious surfaces can also decrease groundwater recharge and increase the quantity of peak flows of runoff, causing stream channel scouring, sedimentation, and loss of habitat. Renton’s existing surface water drainage system is generally considered to meet capacity requirements under frequent rain events (less than 50% annual chance event). However, in some areas of the City, the system is inadequate during large, infrequent storm events. In more developed areas within the Lower Cedar River and Lake Washington East Basins, problems include flooding and ponding caused by inadequately sized pipes, ditches, and detention facilities. In other areas such as the Black River Basin, loss of wetlands and fish passage are concerns, as well as, development occurring within the watershed, both inside and outside the City. In areas where redevelopment is likely such as the Renton Urban Center, Sunset Area, and other centers, redeveloped properties are required to provide water quality treatment if the redevelopment area exceeds thresholds in the Renton Surface Water Design Manual. Adding treatment facilities would improve water quality in receiving waterbodies compared to predevelopment conditions. Additionally, as new development and redevelopment occur, Low Impact Development (LID) practices are implemented to conserve native soils and vegetation, protect hydrologic processes (e.g., infiltration), and reduce and treat overland stormwater flow to more closely match native forest or prairie conditions. Selected examples of LID techniques include bioretention planters, rain gardens, and permeable sidewalks. LID works to provide water quality treatment, increase groundwater recharge and reduce stormwater flow. Renton’s Surface Water Utility manages stormwater and surface water in Renton’s city limits which has grown from about 17 square miles in 2000 to 24 square miles in 2020. Figure UT-4 illustrates the Surface Water Utility service area and its component drainage basins. The Surface Water Utility develops policies, basin plans, and development design standards and completes capital improvement projects to maintain and restore the quality of Renton’s lakes and rivers, improve drainage, and reduce flood hazards. It coordinates with the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding flood hazard management. The Utility also coordinates with multiple state, county, and city agencies to conduct watershed planning for the Green River/Duwamish and Cedar River/Lake Washington Watersheds. The City operates a storm system maintenance program that includes cleaning catch basins, pipes and other facilities, along with a street vacuum sweeping program. The maintenance programs remove sediment and pollutants from City-owned and operated storm systems and streets, which reduces flooding and non-point source pollution from being discharged into water bodies. Renton’s Surface Water Utility also provides public education on how residents and businesses can help minimize impacts to surface waters such as by using natural lawn care and avoiding discharges or spills entering drains or waterways. As the City redevelops and annexes territory, greater demand is placed on the Utility to keep providing planning, regulatory oversight, capital project implementation, and maintenance services. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 18 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 The Surface Water Utility is responsible for meeting federal and state stormwater requirements. A significant effort for the Utility is compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit. This permit requires the Utility to control discharge of pollutants to protect surface water and to develop and implement a stormwater management program addressing: ▪ Stormwater planning ▪ Public education and outreach ▪ Public involvement and participation ▪ Storm system mapping and documentation ▪ Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) ▪ Controlling runoff from new development, redevelopment, and construction sites ▪ Pollution prevention and good housekeeping for municipal operations and maintenance ▪ Post construction stormwater management for new development & redevelopment, including LID ▪ Monitoring ▪ Ensuring implementation of source control best management practices by businesses ▪ Annual reporting and record keeping of compliance with NPDES permit requirement. Approximately 82 percent of Renton's water is supplied by the Cedar Valley Aquifer, with the rest coming from Springbrook Springs. As Renton's primary water source, the Cedar Valley Aquifer has been designated a "sole source" by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; no federal financial assistance can be given to a project which might contaminate the aquifer. The City has identified Aquifer Protection Area (APA) zones. Development projects located in either Zone 1, Zone 1 Modified, or Zone 2 are required to pass additional review to ensure the projects do not produce water quantity and/or quality impacts that may affect the aquifer. Areas of particular concern include areas subject to vehicular traffic or the storage of chemicals. In some areas, infiltration systems are not allowed and could increase runoff, requiring new facilities to be larger. If future NPDES Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit requirements result in changes to quality or quantity of runoff and infiltration, the City’s aquifer protection regulations could require review and amendments. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 19 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 7. City Managed Surface Water Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-G: Provide and maintain surface water management systems to minimize impacts of land use development and storm water runoff on natural systems, fish and wildlife habitat, water supply, public health, and safety. U-G: Provide and maintain surface water management systems to minimize impacts of land use and storm water runoff on natural systems, fish and wildlife habitat, water supply, public health, and safety. ▪ Revised for accuracy and clarity. 2 U-H: Implement a stormwater management program that optimizes Renton's water resources and promotes low impact development that combines engineering with the preservation of natural systems. U-H: Implement a stormwater management program that optimizes Renton's water resources, maintains and restores the quality of Renton’s waterbodies, improve drainage, protects fish and wildlife habitat, reduces flood hazards to protect people and property, and promotes low impact development. that combines engineering with the preservation of natural systems. ▪ Updated with goal details originally listed in policies. 3 U-I: Preserve and protect fish and wildlife habitat, riparian corridors, and wetlands for overall surface water system functioning. U-I: Preserve and protect fish and wildlife habitat, riparian corridors, and wetlands for overall surface water system functioning. ▪ No change proposed. 4 U-J: Protect the natural functions of 100 year floodplains and floodways to prevent threats to life, property, and public safety associated with flooding hazards. U-J: Protect the natural functions of 100 year floodplains and floodways to prevent threats to life, property, and public safety associated with flooding hazards. ▪ No change proposed. 5 U-K: Increase the participation by the City of Renton in resolution of regional surface water and ecological issues that may impact Renton residents. U-K: Increase the participation in resolution of regional surface water and ecological issues that may impact Renton. ▪ Revised to broaden focus to include both residents and businesses. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 20 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 8. City Managed Surface Water Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-28: Design storm drainage systems to minimize potential erosion and sedimentation problems, and to preserve natural drainage, watercourses, and ravines. Policy U-28: Design storm drainage systems to minimize potential erosion and sedimentation problems, and to preserve natural drainage, watercourses, and ravines. ▪ No change proposed. 2 Policy U-29: Control runoff from new development, redevelopment, and construction sites through the implementation of development design standards and construction techniques that promote the use of best management practices to maintain and improve storm water quality and manage stormwater flow. Policy U-29: Control runoff from new development, redevelopment, and construction sites through the implementation of development design standards and requiring construction techniques that maintain and improve storm water quality and manage stormwater flow. ▪ Revised for accuracy, low impact development techniques are now required by regulation. ▪ Revised for clarity. 3 Policy U-30: Provide incentives and regulations appropriate to an urban environment that reduce impervious surfaces, promote natural and distributed stormwater techniques, and incorporate native and naturalized vegetation. Policy U-30: Reduce impervious surfaces, promote natural and distributed stormwater techniques, and incorporate native and naturalized vegetation through low-impact development regulations appropriate to an urban environment. ▪ Revised for accuracy; low impact development techniques are now required by regulation. 4 Policy U-31: Maintain, protect, and enhance natural drainage systems and natural surface water storage sites to protect water quality, reduce public costs, and prevent environmental degradation. Policy U-31: Maintain, protect, and enhance natural drainage systems and natural surface water storage sites to protect water quality, reduce public costs, and prevent environmental degradation. ▪ No change proposed. 5 Policy U-32: Work to protect surface and groundwater resources from pollutants entering the storm drainage system. Policy U-32: Protect surface and groundwater resources from pollutants entering the storm drainage system. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency in sentence construction. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 21 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 6 Policy U-33: Manage water resources for multiple uses including recreation, fish and wildlife, flood protection, erosion control, water supply, recreation, and open space. Policy U-33: Manage water resources for multiple uses including recreation, fish and wildlife, flood protection, erosion control, water supply, recreation, and open space. ▪ No change proposed. 7 Policy U-34: Through public programs and new development, naturalize degraded channels, streams, creeks, and banks. Policy U-34: Naturalize degraded channels, streams, creeks, and banks through public programs and new development. . ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency in sentence construction. 8 Policy U-35: Prohibit filling, culverting, and piping of natural watercourses that are classified as streams, except as needed for a public works project where no other option is feasible and mitigation is provided to replace lost functions. Policy U-35: Prohibit filling, culverting, and piping of natural watercourses that are classified as streams, except as needed for a public works project where no other option is feasible and mitigation is provided to replace lost functions. ▪ No change proposed. 9 Policy U-36: Where feasible, promote the return of precipitation to the soil at natural rates near where it falls through development design that minimizes impermeable surface coverage and maximizes infiltration, through the exposure of natural surfaces, tree retention, and the use of LID techniques(such as flow dispersion, bioretention facilities, and permeable pavements). Policy U-36: Where feasible, promote the return of precipitation to the soil at natural rates near where it falls through development design that minimizes impervious surface coverage and maximizes infiltration, through the exposure of natural surfaces, tree retention, and the use of LID techniques(such as flow dispersion, bioretention facilities, and permeable pavements). ▪ Revised to standardize the use of ‘impervious.’ 10 Policy U-37: Preserve and protect wetlands for overall system functioning. ▪ Combined with next policy 11 Policy U-38: Protect buffers along wetlands, streams, rivers, and other water bodies to facilitate infiltration and maintain stable water temperatures, provide for biological diversity, reduce amount and velocity of run-off, and provide for fish and wildlife habitat. Policy U-38: Protect wetlands and buffers along wetlands, streams, rivers, and other water bodies to facilitate infiltration and maintain stable water temperatures, provide for biological diversity, reduce amount and velocity of run-off, and provide for fish and wildlife habitat. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 22 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 12 Policy U-39: Ensure water level fluctuations in wetlands used as part of storm water detention systems are similar to the fluctuations under natural conditions. The utilization, maintenance, and storage capacity provided in existing wetlands should be encouraged. Policy U-39: Ensure water level fluctuations in wetlands used as part of storm water detention systems reflect fluctuations under natural conditions. ▪ Removed 13 Policy U-40: Minimize erosion and sedimentation by requiring appropriate construction techniques and resource practices. Policy U-40: Minimize erosion and sedimentation by requiring appropriate construction techniques and resource practices. ▪ No change proposed. 14 Policy U-41: Limit discharges of pollutants such as chemicals, insecticides, pesticides, and other hazardous wastes to surface waters. Policy U-41: Prohibit discharges of pollutants such as hazardous chemicals, insecticides, pesticides, and other hazardous wastes to surface waters. ▪ Revised for clarity. 15 Policy U-42: Reduce the impact of new development on the environment by encouraging sustainable design techniques in public and private development, through LID and other sustainable development methods. Policy U-42: Encouraging sustainable design techniques in public and private development, through LID and other sustainable development methods. ▪ Revised for clarity. 16 Policy U-43: Prohibit permanent structures from developing in floodways and manage development within the 100 year floodplain. Where development is permitted in the floodplain, ensure compliance with FEMA floodplain development regulations and the National Marine Fisheries Biological Opinion regarding the National Flood Insurance Program. Policy U-43: Prohibit permanent structures from developing in floodways and manage development within the 100 year floodplain. Where development is permitted in the floodplain, ensure compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program and other applicable regulations. ▪ Revised for clarity. 17 Policy U-44: Emphasize non-structural methods in planning for flood prevention and damages reduction. Policy U-44: Emphasize non-structural methods in planning for flood prevention and damages reduction. ▪ No change proposed. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 23 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 18 Policy U-45: Continue to maintain levees and floodwalls and perform maintenance dredging of the Army Corps of Engineers constructed Lower Cedar River Flood Hazard Reduction Project to protect the Renton Municipal Airport, other essential public facilities, industrial, and residential areas in the urban center, educational and recreation investments, and other facilities. Policy U-45: Continue to maintain levees and floodwalls constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers as part of the Lower Cedar River Flood Hazard Reduction Project and perform periodic maintenance dredging to protect the Renton Municipal Airport, other essential public facilities, and industrial and residential land use areas in the urban center. ▪ Revised for clarity. 19 Policy U-46: Actively participate in regional efforts to improve fish habitat and water quality that also contribute to the recovery of Endangered Species Act listed salmon in WRIA 8 and WRIA 9, which include May Creek, Cedar River, and Green River Basins. Policy U-46: Participate in regional efforts to improve fish habitat and water quality that also contribute to the recovery of Endangered Species Act listed salmon in WRIA 8 and WRIA 9, which include May Creek, Cedar River, and Green River Basins. ▪ Revised for clarity and policy construction consistency. 20 Policy U-47: Actively participate in the King County Flood Control District regional efforts to implement flood hazard reduction projects and programs on the major river basins in King County, including the Green River and Cedar River basins. Policy U-47: Participate in the King County Flood Control District regional efforts to implement flood hazard reduction projects and programs on the major river basins in King County, including the Green River and Cedar River basins. ▪ Revised for clarity and policy construction consistency. 21 Policy U-48: Coordinate with adjacent cities, counties, state, and federal agencies in the development and implementation of the NPDES Phase II Stormwater Permit, flood hazard management plans, and storm and surface water management programs. Policy U-48: Coordinate with adjacent cities, counties, state, and federal agencies in the development and implementation of the NPDES Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit, flood hazard management plans, and storm and surface water management programs. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 24 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 22 Policy U-49: Provide high quality surface water utility services. Continue to develop policies, design standards, basin plans, and capital projects to maintain and restore the quality of Renton’s waterbodies, improve drainage, protect fish and wildlife habitat, and reduce flood hazards to protect people and property. Policy U-49: Develop policies, design standards, basin plans, and capital projects to provide high quality surface water utility services. ▪ Incorporated the second half into Goal U-H as it is covered in goals (Table 7, Row 2) 23 Policy U-50: Protect, restore, and enhance environmental quality through land use plans, surface water management programs, park master programs, urban forestry programs, transportation planning, development review, and incentive programs; work with citizens, land owners, and public and private agencies. ▪ Moved to ‘Overall’ section as policy objective of environmental quality is broader than surface water management. 24 Policy U-51: Establish regulatory standards for sustainably developed public and private projects, to include standards for site design and layout, construction, and on-going maintenance and operation. Policy U-51: Establish regulatory standards for sustainably developed public and private projects, to include standards for site design and layout, construction, and on-going maintenance and operation. ▪ Kept as is because it addresses the broader sustainability standards beyond low impact development discussed in U-29, U-30, and U-42 and ties into integration with existing landscape and cost efficiency. 25 Policy U-52: Continue to assume maintenance of stormwater facilities in subdivisions that manage runoff from public streets. Policy U-52: Continue to assume maintenance of stormwater facilities in subdivisions that manage runoff from public streets. ▪ No change proposed. 26 Policy U-53: Continue to implement a program to detect and remove illicit connections and contaminated discharges. Policy U-53: Continue to implement a program to detect and remove illicit connections and contaminated discharges and implement a Source Control Program that requires use of best management practices by businesses with the potential to pollute stormwater. ▪ Revised for accuracy. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Surface Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 25 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 27 Policy U-54: Continue to implement public education and outreach activities to inform residents, businesses, and developers about ways they can prevent stormwater pollution. Policy U-54: Continue to implement public education and outreach activities to inform residents, businesses, and developers about ways they can prevent stormwater pollution. Where possible, provide materials in the most common languages in Renton. ▪ Revised to incorporate equity consideration. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Solid Waste COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 26 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 City Managed Solid Waste Discussion 2015 While solid waste collection is managed by the City, Renton maintains an interlocal agreement with King County for disposal of collected solid waste. This interlocal agreement also authorizes King County to include Renton in its Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan. Renton’s Solid Waste Utility administers the City’s solid waste, recycling, and yard/food waste collection for all residents and businesses through a contract with Republic Services, Inc. The City’s Solid Waste Utility also develops and manages Renton’s Recycling Program, waste reduction, hazardous waste education, and special collection events. Solid waste and recycling are collected every other week, while food/yard waste is collected weekly. The majority of collected waste is brought to King County’s Renton Transfer Station located in the Renton Highlands. Residents of unincorporated King County, as well as City residents are also allowed to use this facility for self-haul disposal. Also within city limits is the Black River Construction, Demolition, and Land Clearing Transfer Station (CDL), overseen by Republic Services, Inc. Under a contract with King County, this facility accepts construction, demolition, and land clearing waste from waste hauling companies and private residents. Following the city-administered collection process, all solid waste produced in Renton is brought to the King County Solid Waste Division’s Cedar Hills Regional Landfill, located southeast of Renton. All recyclables collected from single-family, duplex, and multi-family residents are brought to a recycling center while all food/yard waste from single-family and duplex residents is taken to Cedar Grove Recycling in Maple Valley. As of 2012, the remaining airspace capacity (with anticipated settling) at the Cedar Hills Regional Landfill is 9 million cubic yards. However, an additional waste disposal area that is currently in planning will add another 8.6 million cubic yards by 2017, bringing the total estimated airspace capacity to 17.7 million cubic yards. Under current planning assumptions, the landfill has a remaining operating life of nearly 15 years. The Cedar Grove Recycling Center has a yearly capacity of 195,000 tons of organic material. At this time, the capacities of the Renton Transfer Station, the Cedar Hills Landfill, the Cascade Recycling Center, and Cedar Grove Recycling are sufficient to meet the City’s needs. The King County Solid Waste Division serves unincorporated King County and 37 of the 39 cities in the County, including Renton. It manages a complex network of collections, transportation, and processing for garbage, recyclables, organics, and construction and demolition debris. The services and infrastructure of the public and private sectors are included in the County’s integrated network to establish long-term capacity for the management of solid waste in the County. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Solid Waste COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 27 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Discussion Revised 2024 The City of Renton manages solid waste collection and maintains an interlocal agreement with King County for disposal of garbage. This interlocal agreement also authorizes King County to include Renton in its Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan. Renton’s Solid Waste Utility administers the City’s garbage, recycling, and yard/food waste collection for all residents and businesses through a contract with a private purveyor. The City’s Solid Waste Utility also develops and manages waste reduction programs, litter collection, hazardous waste education, and special recycling collection events. Residential garbage and recycling are collected every other week and food/yard waste is collected weekly. Commercial and multifamily waste is collected weekly. About 60% of Renton’s garbage is brought to King County’s Renton Transfer Station located in the Renton Highlands. The remaining garbage is taken to King County’s Bow Lake Recycling and Transfer Station in Tukwila. Residents also use these facilities for self-hauling waste. Also within city limits are two Construction, demolition, and land clearing (CDL) transfer stations: one in northwest Renton managed by Republic Services, and one in central Renton managed by DTG. Under contracts with King County, these facilities accept construction, demolition, and land clearing waste from waste hauling companies and businesses. All garbage produced in Renton is brought to the King County Solid Waste Division’s Cedar Hills Regional Landfill, located about three miles southeast of Renton city limits. All recyclables collected by the City’s contracted waste hauler from residents and commercial customers are brought to a materials recovery facility, while all food/yard waste collected by the City’s contracted waste hauler from detached and duplex residences is taken to Cedar Grove’s composting facility, also located approximately three miles southeast of Renton city limits. Each year, Renton residents and businesses contribute approximately 45,000 tons of garbage to the Cedar Hills Regional Landfill, or about 6 percent of the landfill’s annual tonnage. The landfill has been receiving waste since 1965 and is nearing its capacity, so the King County Solid Waste Division is analyzing long-term waste disposal options for when the landfill closes. Cedar Grove’s composting facility has a yearly capacity of 250,000 tons of organic material. Renton annually contributes approximately 14,500 tons of organic waste to the facility. At this time, the capacities of the King County’s transfer stations, the Cedar Hills Regional Landfill, the contracted waste hauler’s material recovery facility, and Cedar Grove’s composting facility are sufficient to meet the City’s needs. The King County Solid Waste Division serves unincorporated King County and 37 of King County’s 39 cities, including Renton. The Division manages a complex network of collections, transportation, and processing for garbage, recyclables, yard/food waste, and construction and demolition debris. The services and infrastructure of the public and private sectors are included in the County’s integrated network to establish long-term capacity for managing solid waste in the County. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Solid Waste COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 28 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 9. City-Managed Solid Waste Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-L: Provide a responsible, comprehensive solid waste management program that provides cost- effective, environmentally sensitive service to the community. U-L: Provide a responsible, comprehensive solid waste management program that provides cost- effective, environmentally sensitive service to the community. ▪ No change proposed. 2 Extend the lifecycle of materials, reduce new consumption, and improve city-wide recycling and composting. ▪ This goal is from the Consumption & Materials Management section of the Clean Economy Strategy 2.0. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ City Managed Solid Waste COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 29 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 10. City-Managed Solid Waste Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-55: Actively promote recycling, as well as overall reduction of both the residential and commercial solid waste streams through public education programs and incentive programs. Policy U-55: Promote sustainable consumption and reduce waste generation through public education programs, incentive programs, and mandates. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. 2 Policy U-56: Work closely with King County Solid Waste Division to plan for regional solid waste collection and disposal, including siting of facilities. Policy U-56: Work with the King County Solid Waste Division to plan for regional solid waste collection and disposal, including siting of facilities. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. 3 Policy U-57: Coordinate with King County’s Local Hazardous Waste Management Program to provide opportunities for residents to dispose of commercial and household hazardous materials in a safe, environmentally sound manner. Policy U-57: Coordinate with King County’s Hazardous Waste Management Program to reduce toxic material exposure, promote using safer alternatives to hazardous products, and provide convenient opportunities for workers and residents to properly dispose of hazardous materials. No change proposed. 4 Policy U-58: Administer the City’s contracts with private waste haulers to ensure capacity for collection of solid waste, recycling, and food waste that is adequate to serve both existing and future population and that solid waste is handled in a manner that minimizes the potential for land, air, and water contamination. Policy U-58: Administer the City’s contracts with private waste haulers to ensure safe and dependable solid waste collection that minimizes the potential for land, air, and water contamination from solid waste collection. ▪ No change proposed. Formalize and implement the Sustainable Materials Management Plan and implement key measures. Update the plan on a regular cadence for it to remain relevant and for the City to be eligible for local, state, and federal grant funding. This is an action from the Consumption & Materials Management section of the Clean Economy Strategy 2.0. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Utilities COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 30 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Non-City Managed Utilities Discussion 2015 Non-City managed utilities operating within Renton conduct their own planning processes and maintain their own systems with limited involvement from the City, and expansion of these systems is often driven by consumer demand and not solely on regional growth forecasts, though those are considered. An overview of the major non-City utility providers offering service within Renton is provided in this section, as well as policies to ensure that Renton is aware of non-City utility upgrades and utility providers are aware of City needs. Discussion Revised 2024 Non-City managed utilities operating within Renton conduct their own planning processes and maintain their own systems with limited involvement from the City. Expansion of these systems is often driven by consumer demand and not solely on regional growth forecasts, though those are considered. This section provides an overview of the major non-City utility providers offering service within Renton as well as policies to ensure effective coordination between activities related to non-City and City utility upgrades, management, and maintenance. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 31 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Non-City Managed Water Discussion 2015 While the majority of Renton is served by the City’s publicly owned water system, portions of northeastern and southeastern Renton (East Renton Plateau and Benson Hill) are currently served by various non-City water providers; the two largest are Soos Creek Water & Sewer and King County Water District #90. Soos Creek Water & Sewer Soos Creek is a municipal corporation of King County that operates across multiple incorporated cities and unincorporated King County. Its retail water service area covers approximately 16 square miles (with the majority located within the Cities of Renton and Kent) and serves more than 23,400 equivalent residential units (ERUs). While only one pump station and one reservoir are located within Renton city limits, City residents are served by the broader system that utilizes the District’s entire infrastructure. In 1997, the City of Renton and Soos Creek signed an interlocal agreement for the establishment of water and sewer service area boundaries. An addendum to the agreement occurred in 2004 that included a transfer of facilities and a re-establishment of service boundaries. Soos Creek’s water supply is provided exclusively by Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), with flow occurring from four locations. The current contract with SPU guarantees a total of 7,000 gallons per minute, which is less than the current projected maximum daily demand (MDD) of 7,500 gallons per minute and the projected MDD of 9,458 gallons per minute in 20 years. Increased water supply could become available in the future if the District revises its contract with Seattle Public Utilities. The District’s capital facility plan identifies capital improvements to be built over the next 20 years, including short and long term projects aimed at improving the District’s existing system to meet its policies and criteria and respond to projected growth. The types of projects planned include: supply and source projects, pressure zone projects, storage facility projects, intertie projects, and distribution and transmission projects. King County Water District #90 King County Water District #90 is a special purpose district located in the Renton Highlands area of unincorporated King County, directly east of and adjacent to the City of Renton. It serves just fewer than 6,000 direct service connections in a service area of approximately 15 square miles (9,770 acres). Because it provides water service to some areas inside the City of Renton, the District maintains an interlocal agreement that details the conditions of the District’s operations, infrastructure, and service within the City. Seattle Public Utility (SPU) currently supplies 70% of the District’s water. The District provides the other 30% of its water supply from a groundwater well and treatment facility, located off Jones Road, that it operates and maintains. In total, the District’s water supply capacity is 3,450 gpm. The District’s Capital Improvement Plan presents recommended improvements over a 20-year period. It addresses construction of new facilities and upgrades to existing facilities to provide for projected growth. The District is planning to focus on improved system reliability through astute upsizing of critical pipes and additional looping of water mains. Another major project that will be addressed in phases is the expansion of one of the major pressure zones to address areas of low pressure and improve the utilization of the two main storage reservoirs. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 32 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Discussion Revised 2024 While the majority of Renton is served by the City’s publicly owned water system, portions of northeastern and southeastern Renton (East Renton Plateau and Benson Hill) are currently served by other water providers; the two largest are Soos Creek Water & Sewer District and King County Water District #90. Soos Creek Water & Sewer District Soos Creek Water & Sewer District is a municipal corporation of King County that operates across multiple incorporated cities and unincorporated King County. Its retail water service area covers approximately 16 square miles (with the majority located within the Cities of Renton and Kent) and serves more than 23,400 equivalent residential units (ERUs). While only one pump station and one reservoir are located within Renton city limits, Renton residents are served by the broader system that utilizes the District’s entire infrastructure. In 1997, the City of Renton and Soos Creek signed an interlocal agreement for the establishment of water and sewer service area boundaries. In 2004, an addendum to the agreement included a transfer of facilities and a re-establishment of service boundaries. Soos Creek’s water supply is provided exclusively by Seattle Public Utilities (SPU). The current contract with SPU guarantees a total of 7,000 gallons per minute, which is less than the current projected maximum daily demand (MDD) of 7,500 gallons per minute and the projected MDD of 9,458 gallons per minute in 20 years. Increased water supply could become available in the future if the District revises its contract with Seattle Public Utilities. The District’s capital facility plan identifies capital improvements to be built over the next 20 years, including short and long term projects aimed at improving the District’s existing system to meet its policies and criteria and respond to projected growth. The types of projects planned include: supply and source projects, pressure zone projects, storage facility projects, intertie projects, and distribution and transmission projects. King County Water District #90 King County Water District #90 is a special purpose district located in the Renton Highlands area of unincorporated King County, directly east of and adjacent to the City of Renton. It serves fewer than 6,000 direct service connections in a service area of approximately 15 square miles (9,770 acres). Because it provides water service to some areas inside the City of Renton, the District maintains an interlocal agreement that details the conditions of the District’s operations, infrastructure, and service within the City. Seattle Public Utility (SPU) currently supplies 70% of the District’s water. The District provides the other 30% of its water supply from a groundwater well and treatment facility, located off Jones Road, that it operates and maintains. In total, the District’s water supply capacity is 3,450 gpm. The District’s Capital Improvement Plan presents recommended improvements over a 20-year period. It addresses construction of new facilities and upgrades to existing facilities to provide for projected growth. The District is planning to focus on improved system reliability through upsizing of critical pipes and additional looping of water mains. Another major project that will be addressed in phases is the expansion of one of the major pressure zones to address areas of low pressure and improve the utilization of the two main storage reservoirs. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 33 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 11. Non-City Managed Water Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-M: Ensure that water service from non-City providers is available to support development that is consistent with City land use plans and policies, as well as, the policies of the service provider. U-M: Ensure that water service from non-City providers is available to support development that is consistent with city land use plans and policies, as well as the policies of the service provider. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Water COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 34 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 12. Non-City Managed Water Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-59: Maintain coordination with non-City water providers to ensure that they have adequate capacity to serve planned development within the City of Renton. Policy U-59: Coordinate with non-City water providers to ensure that they have adequate capacity to serve planned development within the City of Renton and Renton’s PAA. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. 2 Policy U-60: Work collaboratively with non-City water providers to identify opportunities for joint projects to minimize potential impacts to neighborhoods and the environment. Policy U-60: Collaborate with non-City water providers to identify opportunities for joint projects to minimize potential impacts to residents and the environment. ▪ Updated for more inclusive language. 3 Policy U-61: Coordinate with non-City water providers to ensure that all water systems operating in Renton have access to sufficient emergency water flow for fire protection. Policy U-61: Coordinate with non-City water providers to ensure that all water systems operating in Renton have access to sufficient emergency water flow for fire protection. ▪ No change proposed. 4 Policy U-62: Before issuing building permits to new development in areas not served by the City of Renton Water Utility, require applicants to provide a certificate of water availability stating that sufficient water supply is available to meet both regular and fire flow requirements. Policy U-62: Require applicants to provide a certificate of water availability stating that sufficient water supply is available to meet both regular and fire flow requirements before issuing building permits to new development in areas not served by the City of Renton Water Utility, ▪ Updated for clarity and to reflect structure of other policies. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 35 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Non-City Managed Wastewater Discussion 2015 While most of Renton is served by the City Wastewater Utility, portions of the City are served by other wastewater providers, most notably in areas of southeastern Renton annexed in 2008. The largest non-City provider of sewer service is Soos Creek Water & Sewer. Soos Creek is a municipal corporation of King County that operates across multiple incorporated cities and unincorporated King County. The district covers portions of multiple cities and provides sewer service to approximately 92,500 customers within its 35-square mile service area. Primary collection of wastewater is through gravity mains and trunks that drain to interceptors or lift stations. Wastewater leaves the District at a total of 19 locations, with three discharge connections to the City of Renton. Collected wastewater is treated at King County’s Renton treatment facility. The District utilizes hydraulic modeling, forecasted population growth, and a range of assumptions to prepare existing, 10-year, 20-year, and ultimate build-out scenario analyses that identify potential deficiencies within the system. These analyses identified relatively few capacity deficiencies in the portion of the District’s Renton service area. Currently, capacity issues exist in two gravity lines that discharge to the City of Renton sewer system. Additional capacity issues are projected to develop in southeastern Renton as development continues. Based on the system analyses described above, a range of necessary improvements have been identified to meet the District’s future sewerage needs. Improvements have been classified as either short-term (within the next 10 years) or long-term (through ultimate build-out) and fall under one of two categories: pipe replacements/upgrades or lift station replacement/upgrades. Funding has also been allocated to conduct general facilities upgrades and maintenance. Discussion Revised 2024 While most of Renton is served by the City Wastewater Utility, portions of the City are served by other wastewater providers, most notably in areas of southeastern Renton annexed in 2008. The largest non-City provider of sewer service is Soos Creek Water & Sewer District. Soos Creek is a municipal corporation of King County that operates across multiple incorporated cities and unincorporated King County. The District provides sewer service to approximately 92,500 customers within its 35-square mile service area. Primary collection of wastewater is through gravity mains and trunks that drain to interceptors or lift stations. Wastewater leaves the District at 19 locations, with three discharge connections to the City of Renton. Collected wastewater is treated at King County’s South Plant treatment facility in Renton. The District utilizes hydraulic modeling, forecasted population growth, and a range of assumptions to prepare existing, 10-year, 20-year, and ultimate build-out scenario analyses that identify potential deficiencies within the system. These analyses identified relatively few capacity deficiencies in the portion of the District’s Renton service area. Currently, capacity issues exist in two gravity lines that discharge to the City of Renton sewer system. Additional capacity issues are projected to develop in southeastern Renton as development continues. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 36 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Based on the system analyses described above, a range of necessary improvements have been identified to meet the District’s future sewerage needs. Improvements have been classified as either short-term (within the next 10 years) or long-term (through ultimate build-out) and fall under one of two categories: pipe replacements/upgrades or lift station replacement/upgrades. Funding has also been allocated to conduct general facilities upgrades and maintenance. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 37 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 13. Non-City Managed Wastewater Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-N: Ensure that sewer service from non-City providers is available to support development that is consistent with City land use plans and policies, as well as, the policies of the service provider. U-N: Ensure that sewer service from non-City providers is available to support development that is consistent with City land use plans and policies, as well as the policies of the service provider. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Non-City Managed Wastewater COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 38 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 14. Non-City Managed Wastewater Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-63: Maintain coordination with non-City sewer providers to ensure that they have adequate capacity to serve planned development within the City of Renton. Policy U-63: Coordinate with non-City sewer providers to ensure that they have adequate capacity to serve planned development within the City of Renton. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. 2 Policy U-64: Work collaboratively with non-City sewer providers to identify opportunities for joint projects to minimize potential impacts to neighborhoods and the environment. Policy U-64: Collaborate with non-City sewer providers to identify opportunities for joint projects to minimize potential impacts to residents and the environment. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency; incorporate inclusive language. 3 Policy U-65: Ensure that wastewater flows from areas served by non-City providers do not create capacity deficiencies where non-City sewer lines discharge to the City of Renton system. Coordinate with both sewer providers and City development services staff to ensure such areas have adequate sewer capacity before development is approved. Policy U-65: Ensure that wastewater flows from areas served by non-City providers do not create capacity deficiencies where non-City sewer lines discharge to the City of Renton system. ▪ Removed second clause because it is covered by the following policy. 4 Policy U-66: Before issuing building permits to new development in areas not served by the City of Renton Wastewater Utility, require applicants to provide a certificate of sewer availability stating that sufficient capacity is available to meet both regular and peak demand. Policy U-66: Require applicants to provide a certificate of sewer availability stating that sufficient capacity is available to meet both regular and peak demand, before issuing building permits to new development in areas not served by the City of Renton Wastewater Utility. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. ▪ Consider a new policy around coordination where areas in non-City service areas discharge into city- managed sewer systems. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Electricity COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 39 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Electricity Discussion 2015 Electricity is distributed in Renton by a combination of three purveyors, which are part of an integrated transmission grid that connects production and consumption locations across the Pacific Northwest. Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), the regional administrative entity of the U.S. Department of Energy, operates major transmission lines that transmit power from generation facilities to retailers across the state, who then sell power to local customers. Most electricity customers in Renton are served by Puget Sound Energy (PSE), while Seattle City Light (SCL) provides power to the Bryn Mawr and Skyway areas, including some customers within current Renton city limits. The electric transmission grid consists of high-voltage transmission lines (115 kilovolts (kV) or above) and distribution lines (55 kV and lower). Distribution substations transform high-voltage current into lower voltages suitable for distribution on local lines. Local transformers further reduce voltage to levels suitable for use by customers. Bonneville Power Administration Facilities BPA Transmission lines at voltages of 500 kV, 345 kV, and 230 kV enter the Renton Planning Area from the east and south, terminating at the Maple Valley Substation in southeastern Renton. The Maple Valley Substation provides power to Puget Sound Energy’s adjacent Talbot Hill Substation, which distributes electricity to local PSE customers. Puget Sound Energy Facilities As the primary electricity retailer in Renton, PSE maintains a variety of transmission lines, distribution lines, and substations in the area for provision of power to local customers. Locally, PSE distributes power from its Talbot Hill Substation, located adjacent to BPA’s Maple Valley Substation in southeastern Renton. Seattle City Light Facilities Seattle City Light maintains distribution lines and two minor distribution substations in a small portion of the Renton Planning Area. Power is provided to these substations by Seattle’s Creston distribution substation, located outside Renton’s planning area. Discussion Revised 2024 Electricity is distributed in Renton by three purveyors, which are part of an integrated transmission grid that connects production and consumption locations across the Pacific Northwest. Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), the regional administrative entity of the U.S. Department of Energy, operates major transmission lines that transmit power from generation facilities to retailers across the state, who then sell power to local customers. Most electricity customers in Renton are served by Puget Sound Energy (PSE), while Seattle City Light (SCL) provides power to the Bryn Mawr and Skyway areas, including some customers within current Renton city limits. The electric transmission grid consists of high-voltage transmission lines (115 kilovolts (kV) or above) and distribution lines (55 kV and lower). Distribution substations transform high-voltage current into lower voltages suitable for distribution on local lines. Local transformers further reduce voltage to levels suitable for use by customers. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Electricity COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 40 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Bonneville Power Administration Facilities BPA Transmission lines at voltages of 500 kV, 345 kV, and 230 kV enter the Renton Planning Area from the east and south, terminating at the Maple Valley Substation in southeastern Renton. The Maple Valley Substation provides power to Puget Sound Energy’s adjacent Talbot Hill Substation, which distributes electricity to local PSE customers. Puget Sound Energy Facilities As the primary electricity retailer in Renton, PSE maintains a variety of transmission lines, distribution lines, and substations in the area for provision of power to local customers. Locally, PSE distributes power from its Talbot Hill Substation, located adjacent to BPA’s Maple Valley Substation in southeastern Renton. Seattle City Light Facilities Seattle City Light maintains distribution lines and two minor distribution substations in a small portion of the Renton Planning Area. Power is provided to these substations by Seattle’s Creston distribution substation, located outside Renton’s planning area. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Electricity COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 41 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 15. Electricity Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-O: Promote the availability of safe, adequate, and efficient electrical service within the City and its planning area, consistent with the regulatory obligation of the utility to serve customers. U-O: Promote the availability of safe, adequate, reliable and efficient electrical service within the City and its planning area, consistent with the regulatory obligation of the utility to serve customers. ▪ No change proposed. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Electricity COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 42 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 16. Electricity Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-67: Coordinate with local and regional electricity providers to ensure the siting and location of transmission and distribution facilities is accomplished in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts on the environment and adjacent land uses. Policy U-67: Coordinate with local and regional electricity providers to ensure the siting and location of transmission and distribution facilities is accomplished in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts on the environment and adjacent land uses and equitably distributes the benefits and burdens of new utility infrastructure. ▪ Incorporate equity consideration. 2 Policy U-68: Encourage electricity purveyors to make facility improvements and additions within existing utility corridors wherever possible. Policy U-68: Encourage electricity purveyors to make facility improvements and additions within existing utility corridors wherever possible. ▪ No change proposed. 3 Policy U-69: Require underground electricity infrastructure installation to be coordinated with the City of Renton Public Works Department to prevent cross-boring through existing water, sewer, or natural gas lines. Policy U-69: Require underground electricity infrastructure installation to be coordinated with the City of Renton Public Works Department and ensure it does not cause damage or conflict with existing utilities. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Natural Gas COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 43 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Natural Gas Discussion 2015 Natural gas service in Renton is provided by Puget Sound Energy under a franchise agreement with the City. The gas distribution system consists of a network of pressurized mains and distribution lines that convey natural gas throughout PSE’s service area. PSE receives natural gas from the Northwest Pipeline Corporation, which operates large, interstate natural gas pipelines. Two pipelines cross the Renton Planning Area and terminate at the South Seattle Gate Station. PSE mains extend from the gate station, distributing the gas to pressure regulators and smaller lines, which provide natural gas to customers. Natural . system capacity is primarily a function of the volume of gas flowing from the Northwest Pipeline Corporation pipelines, and demand fluctuates based on power consumption. Natural gas is used primarily as fuel for home heating, so demand is highest during winter months and peaks during extremely cold weather. PSE maintains storage tanks that provide a reserve against such periods of high demand. In the event of supply shortfalls from extreme demand, residential customers are granted first priority for service. Because it is clean-burning and less expensive than other energy sources, the popularity of natural gas has risen in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue. Population growth within PSE’s service area will also increase demand for natural gas. Puget Sound Energy conducts ongoing system planning to ensure an adequate supply is available to customers. Improvements to regional infrastructure, including the South Seattle Gate Station, and construction of additional high pressure mains, have been planned. Precise timing and location of infrastructure improvements will be determined based on right-of-way permitting, environmental analysis, and coordination with the City of Renton. Discussion Revised 2024 Natural gas service in Renton is provided by Puget Sound Energy under a franchise agreement with the City. The gas distribution system consists of a network of pressurized mains and distribution lines that convey natural gas throughout PSE’s service area. PSE receives natural gas from the Northwest Pipeline Corporation, which operates large, interstate natural gas pipelines. Two pipelines cross Renton city limits and associated potential annexation areas and terminate at the South Seattle Gate Station. PSE mains extend from the gate station, distributing the gas to pressure regulators and smaller lines, which provide natural gas to customers. Natural gas system capacity is primarily a function of the volume of gas flowing from the Northwest Pipeline Corporation pipelines, and demand fluctuates based on power consumption. Natural gas is used primarily as fuel for home heating, so demand is highest during winter months and peaks during extremely cold weather. PSE maintains storage tanks that provide a reserve for periods of high demand. In the event of supply shortfalls from extreme demand, residential customers are granted first priority for service. Population growth within PSE’s service area will increase demand for natural gas. Puget Sound Energy conducts ongoing system planning to ensure an adequate supply is available to customers. PSE plans include improvements to regional infrastructure, including the South Seattle Gate Station, and construction of additional high-pressure mains. Precise timing and location of infrastructure improvements will be determined based on right-of-way permitting, environmental analysis, and coordination with the City of Renton. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Natural Gas COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 44 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 17. Natural Gas Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-P: Promote the safe transport and delivery of natural gas and other fuels within the planning area. U-P: Promote the safe transport and delivery of natural gas and other fuels. ▪ No change proposed. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Natural Gas COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 45 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 18. Natural Gas Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-70: Coordinate with local and regional purveyors of natural gas for the siting of transmission and distribution infrastructure within the Renton Planning Area. Policy U-70: Coordinate with local and regional purveyors of natural gas for the siting of transmission and distribution infrastructure within the Renton city limits and associated potential annexation areas. ▪ Edited for clarity 2 Policy U-71: Support voluntary energy conservation and efficiency programs, including the supplementation of natural gas supplies with new technologies. Policy U-71: Support voluntary energy conservation and efficiency programs, including the supplementation of natural gas supplies with new technologies. 3 Policy U-72: Allow extension of natural gas distribution infrastructure within the Renton Planning Area, provided such facilities are consistent with development assumptions in the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan. Policy U-72: Allow extension of natural gas distribution infrastructure within the Renton Planning Area, provided such facilities are consistent with development assumptions in the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan. 4 Policy U-73: Require underground natural gas infrastructure installation to be coordinated with the City of Renton Public Works Department to prevent cross-boring through existing utility lines. Policy U-73: Require underground natural gas infrastructure installation to be coordinated with the City of Renton Public Works Department to prevent cross-boring through existing utility lines. ▪ No change proposed. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Telecommunications COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 46 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Telecommunications Telephone Discussion 2015 Conventional telephone service in Renton is provided by CenturyLink (formerly Qwest Communications). CenturyLink is an investor-owned corporation and one of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, serving millions of customers nationwide. CenturyLink also provides broadband internet service and satellite television service through DirecTV. Digital phone service is also provided by Comcast in conjunction with their cable television and internet services. Conventional telephone facilities consist of switching station, trunk lines, and distribution lines located throughout Renton. Switching stations direct calls from one line exchange to another, trunk lines connect switching stations to one another, and distribution lines provide phone connections to individual customers. The capacity of conventional telephone switching stations is determined by the type of switch employed. Use of modern digital switches allow for straightforward increases in switch capacity to accommodate growth. Regulations governing telecommunications service require that telephone purveyors provide adequate service on demand. CenturyLink installs new lines and upgrades facilities as required to accommodate customer demand. Cellular phone and data service providers are licensed by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) for a particular band of radio frequencies. Major cellular service providers operating in Renton include AT&T, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile, and Sprint. Cellular telephone systems consist of a series of wireless antennae, each located at the center of a single “cell” of the overall system. The cellular transmitters themselves are generally located where topography and features of the built environment will have the least effect on signal quality, such as existing broadcast communication towers, water towers, high-rise buildings, or vacant open land. The significant growth in wireless phone and data usage over the past few years is anticipated to continue, placing additional demand on existing cellular networks. The capacity of a cellular transmission cell is limited by the number of radio frequencies available for use; the carrier’s FCC license defines what frequency spectrum is allowed. To increase system capacity, carriers often install additional transmitters, thereby creating multiple smaller cells that cover less area than the original, larger cell and serve fewer customers each, increasing overall system capacity. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Telecommunications COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 47 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Discussion Revised 2024 Conventional telephone service in Renton is provided by CenturyLink (formerly Qwest Communications). CenturyLink also provides broadband internet service and satellite television service through DirecTV. Digital phone service is also provided by Comcast in conjunction with their cable television and internet services. Conventional telephone facilities consist of switching stations, trunk lines, and distribution lines located throughout Renton. Switching stations direct calls from one line exchange to another, trunk lines connect switching stations to one another, and distribution lines provide phone connections to individual customers. The capacity of conventional telephone switching stations is determined by the type of switch employed. Use of modern digital switches increase switch capacity to accommodate growth. Regulations governing telecommunications service require that telephone purveyors provide adequate service on demand. CenturyLink installs new lines and upgrades facilities as required to accommodate customer demand. Cellular phone and data service providers are licensed by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) for a particular band of radio frequencies. Major nationwide cellular service providers operating in Renton include AT&T, Verizon Wireless, and T-Mobile. Cellular telephone systems consist of a series of wireless antennae, each located at the center of a single “cell” of the overall system. The cellular transmitters themselves are generally located where topography and features of the built environment will optimize signal quality, such as existing broadcast communication towers, water towers, high-rise buildings, or vacant open land. The significant growth in wireless phone and data usage over the past few years is anticipated to continue, placing additional demand on existing cellular networks. The capacity of a cellular transmission cell is limited by the number of radio frequencies available for use; the carrier’s FCC license defines what frequency spectrum is allowed. To increase system capacity, carriers often install additional transmitters, thereby creating multiple smaller cells that cover less area than the original, larger cell and serve fewer customers each, increasing overall system capacity. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Telecommunications COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 48 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Cable and Satellite Television Discussion 2015 Cable television service in Renton is currently provided by Comcast, and satellite television service is currently provided by DirecTV through an agreement with CenturyLink, allowing customers to bundle their phone, internet, and television services. Satellite television is also available from Dish Network. Cable television facilities include broadcast receivers, a headend, a trunk system, and a feeder system. After receiving and processing broadcast signals, the trunk and feeder system distribute television signal to individual customers. Cable trunk and feeder lines generally follow existing street rights-of-way. Satellite television facilities generally consist only of receiver dishes installed at individual customer locations, which receive signal directly from orbiting communications satellites. While uplink transmitters are necessary at the origin of the broadcast, no additional local infrastructure is needed to receive satellite television signal. Because Comcast currently holds the cable television franchise for the City of Renton, the company must continue to make cable television service available upon request. Comcast offers telecommunications service over a large portion of western Washington in addition to Renton and reviews population growth as part of its ongoing system planning operations. Satellite television services are provided in response to customer requests. Capacity planning occurs at a regional or national scale due to the substantial investment required to use communications satellites. Discussion Revised 2024 Comcast provides cable television service in Renton and DirecTV provides satellite television service through an agreement with CenturyLink, allowing customers to bundle their phone, internet, and television services. Satellite television is also available from Dish Network. Cable television facilities include broadcast receivers, a headend, a trunk system, and a feeder system. After receiving and processing broadcast signals, the trunk and feeder system distribute television signal to individual customers. Cable trunk and feeder lines generally follow existing street rights-of-way. Satellite television facilities generally consist only of receiver dishes installed at individual customer locations, which receive signal directly from orbiting communications satellites. While uplink transmitters are necessary at the origin of the broadcast, no additional local infrastructure is needed to receive satellite television signal. Because Comcast currently holds the cable television franchise for the City of Renton, the company must continue to make cable television service available upon request. Comcast offers telecommunications service over a large portion of western Washington and reviews population growth as part of its ongoing system planning operations. Satellite television services are provided in response to customer requests. Capacity planning occurs at a regional or national scale due to the substantial investment required to use communications satellites. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Telecommunications COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 49 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Internet Discussion 2015 Broadband internet service is provided in Renton by a variety of private providers; the two largest are Comcast and CenturyLink, who provide internet services in addition to phone and television. Wireless internet service is also provided by Clearwire through Sprint’s network of cellular communication towers. Internet service is provided via cable television infrastructure, telephone lines, or wirelessly. Internet service is not considered an essential public utility and is provided in response to customer requests. Individual providers conduct system planning in response to population growth and increased demands for service. Given the increasing rate of internet adoption in American homes in recent years, it is likely that demand for internet service will continue to increase, and it will be necessary for providers to continue to increase capacity and connection speeds to satisfy demand. Discussion Revised 2024 Broadband internet service is provided in Renton by a variety of private providers; the two largest are Comcast and Lumen, who provide internet services in addition to phone and television. Wireless internet home service through 5G networks is offered by T-Mobile and Verizon in some areas of the City and is anticipated to grow over time. Internet service is provided via cable television infrastructure, telephone lines, or wirelessly. Internet service is not considered an essential public utility for health and safety but is a critical component of opportunity. Internet access at reliable and sufficient speeds is necessary for broad economic vitality and equitable access to information, goods and services, and opportunities for social connection. For these reasons, King County County-wide policies emphasize planning for the equitable provision of telecommunication infrastructure and affordable, convenient, and reliable broadband internet access to businesses, and to households of all income levels, with a focus on underserved areas. Individual providers conduct system planning in response to population growth and increased demands for service. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Telecommunications COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 50 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Goals Table 19. Telecommunications Goals Row # 2015 Goal Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 U-Q: Promote the timely and orderly expansion of all forms of telecommunications service within the City and its planning area. U-Q: Promote the timely and orderly expansion of all forms of telecommunications service within the City and its planning area. 2 U-X: Promote equitable access to telecommunication. ▪ Added goal per CPPs. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Telecommunications COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 51 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Policies Table 20. Telecommunications Policies Row # 2015 Policy Proposed Language Change Purpose or Rationale 1 Policy U-74: Require the siting and location of telecommunications facilities be accomplished in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts on the environment and adjacent land uses. Policy U-74: Require the siting and location of telecommunications facilities be accomplished in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts on the environment and equitably distributes the benefits and burdens of new utility infrastructure. ▪ Incorporate equity consideration. 2 Policy U-75: Require wireless communication structures and towers to be designed and sited to minimize aesthetic impacts and to be co- located on existing structures and towers wherever possible. Policy U-75: Require wireless communication structures and towers to be designed and sited to minimize aesthetic impacts and to be co-located on existing structures and towers wherever possible. ▪ No change proposed. 3 Policy U-76: Encourage healthy competition among telecommunication service providers in the City to promote high-quality, cost-effective service for Renton residents. Policy U-76: Encourage healthy competition among telecommunication service providers in the City to promote high-quality, cost-effective service for Renton users. ▪ Revised for clarity and consistency. 4 Policy U-77: Require underground telecommunication infrastructure installation to be coordinated with the City of Renton Public Works Department to prevent cross-boring through existing water, sewer, or natural gas lines. Policy U-77: Require underground telecommunication infrastructure installation to be coordinated with the City of Renton Public Works Department to prevent cross-boring through existing water, sewer, or natural gas lines. ▪ No change proposed. 5 Policy U-XX. Plan for the provision of telecommunication infrastructure and affordable, convenient, and reliable broadband internet access for residents and businesses, with a focus on underserved areas. ▪ Per CPPs, policy added for addressing equity in access. 6 Policy U-XX: Expand Wi-Fi at community centers. ▪ Policy added to increase equitable access to telecommunications. S Element Review ▪ Utilities ▪ Telecommunications COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2024 52 Draft 2.0 – Internal Staff Review  Draft Revised: February 23, 2023 Energy Energy Goals Energy Goals Proposed Language U-X: Promote the availability of safe, adequate, reliable and efficient energy sources within the City and its planning area, consistent with the regulatory obligation to service customers. U-X: Promote the safe transport and delivery of natural gas and other fuels. Energy Policies Energy Policies Proposed Language Policy U-XX: Coordinate with local and regional energy providers to ensure the siting and location of transmission and distribution facilities is accomplished in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts on the environment and adjacent land uses and equitably distributes the benefits and burdens of new utility infrastructure. Policy U-XX: Encourage energy purveyors to make facility improvements and additions within existing utility corridors wherever possible. Policy U-XX: Require underground utility infrastructure installation to be coordinated with the City of Renton Public Works Department to prevent damage or conflict with existing utility lines. Policy U-XX: Coordinate with local and regional energy purveyors for the siting of transmission and distribution infrastructure within the Renton city limits and associated potential annexation areas. Policy U-XX: Support voluntary energy conservation and efficiency programs. Policy U-XX: Support the transition to clean, affordable, and reliable energy sources and expansion of distribution infrastructure, provided such facilities are consistent with development assumptions in the Land Use Element of the Comprehensive Plan.