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Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy - 2009 (ORD 5797)
jr rr � �'� � � �i li•F� win. mpi 4 Am # * Y 1 _ 1 1 ! { �• _—• r City o R ONG "'tCV Or enton t,ammunitw & Ecano nic Dr+r-apnitrut SUNSET AREA COMMUNITY INVESTMENT STRATEGY REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Acknowledgements II. Purpose of study 111. Background history and context for the process a. Task Force I & II outcomes IV. Neighborhood opportunities, amenities and issues V. Process summary a. Schedule diagram b. Documentation of meetings and work sessions • Interdepartmental team work session • Report on Stakeholder focus group charrettes • Property owners • Developers • Officials from City Council, School Board and Housing Authority Board • Public presentation/ celebration • Final stakeholders workshop -city staff, school district, parks department and library VI. Recommended Community Investment Plan & Concept Plan Diagram 1. Support Sunset Terrace Redevelopment 2. Pursue Planned Action EIS 3. Incorporate new Highlands Library in to Sunset Terrace Redevelopment 4. Incorporate a public plaza as a community "third place" in to Sunset Terrace Redevelopment 5. Creation of one or more Community Gardens 6. Design and construct pedestrian, landscaping improvements on Sunset Boulevard 7. Consider opportunities to make "green connections" by integrating stormwater conveyance systems in new and existing infrastructure that also serve as community amenities 8. Better utilization of recreation and park facilities 9. Explore development of a Family Village on North Highlands "Superblock" VII. Further study a. RHA office property VIII. Funding Strategy Appendices - Appendix 1 — 08.04.09 — Framing Opportunities - Appendix 2 — 08.04.09 — Opportunities Map and Notes - Appendix 3 — 08.24.09 — Council, School Board and RHA Work Session notes - Appendix 4 — 09.10.09 — Community Open House Displays - Appendix 5 — 09.22.09 — Interdepartmental/Interagency Staff Team (IST) Workshop notes Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN7s - W, Page 2 of 86 I. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Interdepartmental/ Interagency Team Members Chip Vincent Community & Econ Dev Planning Director Erika Conkling Community & Econ Dev Senior Planner Mark Santos Johnson Community & Econ Dev Sr. Econ Dev Specialist Norma McQuiller Community & Econ Dev Neighborhood Prog Coord. Suzanne Dale Estey Community & Econ Dev Economic Development Dir Bette Anderson Community Services Library Director Jerry Rerecich Community Services Recreation Director Karen Bergsvik Community Services Human Services Mgr Leslie Betlach Community Services Parks Director Peter Renner Community Services Facilities Director Bill Flora Fire & Emergency Services Deputy Chief Tim Troxel Police Deputy Chief Abdoul Gafour Public Works Water Utility Mgr Dave Christensen Public Works Waste Water Utility Mgr Jim Seitz Public Works Transportation Planning Mgr Ron Straka Public Works Storm Water Utility Mgr Rich Moore Renton School District Assistant Superintendent of Operations Randy Matheson Renton School District Executive Director, Community Relations Mark Gropper Renton Housing Authority Deputy Executive Director Tom Tasa Renton Housing Authority Executive Director Len Brannen Shelter Resources, Inc II. PURPOSE OF STUDY Based on the Highlands Phase II Task Force recommendations, the City of Renton commissioned this Community Investment Strategy (CIS) study to prioritize additional public investment in the Sunset Area. It was also timed in conjunction with redevelopment planning for Sunset Terrace, a Renton Housing Authority property of approximately 100 existing units on approximately eight acres, as well as planning for an anticipated Renton School District bond measure. The goal is to maximize the opportunities held in both current and future investments to leverage benefit for the broader community. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 3 of 86 -- - rrr J•!"IF�. rF�i enton Highland Phase II Task Force Outcomes In August 2007, the City Council appointed the Highlands Phase II Task Force to study neighborhood issues beyond the Comprehensive Plan and zoning work. The Task Force represented different stakeholders including property owners, business owners, community organizations, the Renton Housing Authority, and the Renton School District. Over 175 people participated in a public meeting establishing the Task Force's work program, which included a variety of issues related to the neighborhood. The Task Force presented a final set of recommendations that staff and the City Council prioritized and adopted in the Highlands Action Plan. Staff has been working to implement the plan over the last year, as summarized below. However, some of the items require significant investment, and, rather than approach them individually, and without further public input as to the community's desires and priorities, the Sunset Community Investment Strategy was initiated to create a blueprint for how these public investments can be coordinated and phased over the coming years to generate the greatest public benefit. Highlands Phase II Task Force Public Meeting- Highlands Elementary, February 28, 2008 Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN pam Page 5 of 86 Highland Action Plan Scorecard Implementation of the Highlands Phase II Task Force Recommendations Task Initiated Task Completed Task Deferred Money Allocated Start with the easiest tasks to complete • Develop a package of redevelopment incentives for the Highlands ✓ • Strengthen and develop provisions for code enforcement ✓ • Use streetscape prototypes in planning and permitting operations ✓ • Add "down light" pedestrian -scale lighting standards to the Highlands design regulations ✓ • Evaluate location criteria for the methadone clinic Late 2009 • Implement Low Impact Development storm water standards ✓ Initiate recommendations that will require on -going su ort • Expand business and neighborhood safety and crime awareness programs ✓ • Start public outreach campaign ✓ 2010 • Emphasize "good neighbor" practices ✓ • Focus on business retention and enhancement in the Highlands, including a strategic plan for business district improvement ✓ • Create and manage a list of groups to publicize information about the need for volunteers and community support ✓ Initiate planning for the "big idea" • Create a "third lace" in the Highlands ✓ $50,000 Begin design work on Sunset Boulevard improvements • Advocate for Sunset Boulevard improvements ✓ $540,000 Begin work on two major infrastructure improvements • Develop a sidewalk repair program in the Highlands ✓ $350,000 • Investigate the possibility of a sub -regional storm water drainage facility 2010t $200,000 Coordinate remaining infrastructure recommendations with future plannin efforts • Community Planning 2010 • Parks Planning , including providing for the recreation needs of seniors Late 2009 • Develop a package of major infrastructural improvement in the Highlands 2010t $700,000 • Utilize public spaces and walkways for a useable public purpose 2009t • Support expansion of the Highlands Library✓ Dependent upon budget approval. t Initiation based on outcome of Sunset Community Investment Strategy; could be coordinated with Community Planning. $ Should be coordinated with the Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Trails Update and Community Planning. Highlands Task Force II Action Plan Scorecard presented at the Community Open House September 10, 2009 Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN �• Page 6 of 86 VNdW IV. NEIGHBORHOOD OPPORTUNITIES, AMENITIES AND ISSUES The Sunset Area of Renton Highlands is fortunate to contain many public amenities such as the Highlands Park and Neighborhood Center, Highlands Elementary School, Renton Technical College, McKnight Middle School, Highlands Library, Hillcrest Special Services Center, and North Highlands Park and Neighborhood Center. The public ownership of parcels, including rights -of -way, therefore, presents a significant opportunity for change and partnership (see Opportunity Map, page 11). The area is recognizable by many who travel along Sunset Boulevard as a gateway, the arrival characterized by the topography with the crest of the hill at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Harrington Avenue. Sunset Boulevard acts in a regional capacity, and is also known by the neighborhood to have a significant amount of traffic (in excess of 25,000 vehicles per day) on this 5-lane state highway (SR-900). Most of Sunset Boulevard is fronted by surface parking lots, with Sunset Terrace Housing being a notable exception. While the auto access and parking is an advantage to area businesses, the pedestrian environment could be improved to enhance safety and comfort while walking and biking in the area. Especially for families with small children, Sunset Boulevard was portrayed to the design team as a barrier in the neighborhood. Although there are many public amenities, accessibility to them can be improved. The neighborhood also contains several rights -of -way that previously functioned as pedestrian connections. Over time, some of these have been closed off, and there is interest from neighborhood groups in bringing these back into use. Sidewalks in the neighborhood are of variable condition, and the City has embarked on a sidewalk improvement program investing $350,000 to upgrade the worst areas. It should be noted that the City is in the process of adopting new street standards based on Complete Streets, which will require plantings and pedestrian amenities for any new streets. The area is served by transit by King County Metro bus lines 240, 909, 111, and 105, with stops for these commuter lines primarily along Sunset Boulevard and looping north on Edmonds Avenue. There is also an informal park and ride in a parking lot at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church. Sunset Boulevard at Harrington Avenue Sunset Boulevard looking east Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN117s W, Page 7 of 86 Pedestrian path adjacent to the Highland Library Sunset Terrace (RHA property) The community and housing stock is very diverse, with a wide range of housing types in the neighborhood. To the north of Sunset Boulevard, the homes are typified by duplexes which were built as worker housing for the Boeing plant in the 1940s. Today, many of these homes are rental properties. Sunset Terrace, the Renton Housing Authority property, is comprised of 100 units in barrack -style, two story structures, prominently located at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Harrington Avenue. To the south of Sunset Boulevard, there is more variety in housing types, including single family residences, duplexes, and apartment buildings, including the higher density Harrington Square project which is currently under construction. Sunset Boulevard is lined with retail buildings, including Safeway, Viet-Wah Asian Grocery, Dollar Tree, Highland Mart, St. Vincent De Paul, US Bank, Walgreens, Renton Childcare Center, Pizza Hut, KFC, Shell, Texaco, and BP gas stations, restaurants including Thai On Highlands, J's Bar and Grill, the Tea Palace, Crave the Deli, Pho House Vietnamese Restaurant, No Bull Saloon, and Taqueria a Carniceria Sanchez. Sunset Area housing stock Sunset Area housing stock In addition to the retail offerings, there are many public facilities and amenities in this neighborhood. In many of the stakeholder interviews that the design team conducted, there was an interest in reassessing how the various public entities may work together in more efficient manner, such as the potential for joint use agreements between the School District and Parks and Recreation. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 8 of 86 Sunset Area housing stock; NE 20th Street L North Highlands Community Center Harrington Square (under construction) Houser Terrace Senior Housing (RHA property north of Sunset Blvd) r Hillcrest Early Childhood Education Center Highlands Community Center Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 9 of 86 EMOM"ren-ton s* Hillside between Highlands Elementary playing fields and Highlands Park Highlands Park playing fields Play structures at North Highlands Park and Highlands Early Education Center are separated by fences Highlands Elementary School and playing fields In general, the facilities, amenities, and infrastructure in the neighborhood were planned and constructed in the 1940s and 1950s. Most have been operational since that time, serving the residents, and in various stages of remodeling and repair. Today, with a changing population, the City, the School District, and others are reassessing the built environment of the neighborhood and how it can be adapted to meet the changing needs and market demand. This includes plannec or anticipated upgrades to streets, the soon -to -be -initiated Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Masterplan, planning on behalf of the School District for potential changes to the Hillcrest site, and potential changes to the Highlands Library. The coincidence of these planning efforts, along with current economic pressures, and significant public land holdings in the Sunset Area, have created an imperative for the City, the Renton Housing Authority, and the School District to leverage their efforts, work together to achieve goals, and think creatively to meet the needs of this neighborhood, for its current and future success. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN pam Page 10 of 86 Qa Lou aQ V ;lw,ey Cr��s ©u G ilillcr= 5 3II Ea FlIeN Sci,uul li mum `iur�i, iligi,l l A; into 9oueo n ton This page intentionally left blank. V. PROCESS SUMMARY 61729 ,I C \I 8/4: IST Kickoff 8/24 Council, 9/10 Community and Site Tour School Board, and Meeting RHA Worksession and Picnic Framing L Interviews 7111,7/28 Stakeholder Focus Groups Project Schedule 9/22 IST Final Workshop Plan Document and Graphics 10/24 City Council Presentation Interagency/Interdepartmental Staff Team Work Session The Kick Off team meeting provided the City, RHA, and School District representatives a forum to share and discuss their current activities, opportunities for collaboration and leverage, as well as providing a chance to work in small groups around three thematic areas: 1. Community Gathering 2. Creating a Walkable Community 3. Catalyst Actions Followed by a walking tour of the Sunset Area, this session provided much information that the consultant team used to understand the current conditions, activities, breadth of opportunity and challenges facing the area. Stakeholder Focus Group Charrettes The Developer Focus Group was held on August 17, 2009, at the invitation of City of Renton staff. Renton Housing Authority made an informal presentation of their plans for Sunset Terrace. The discussion topics of the 1-112 hour session included: • Physical Development Challenges • Zoning/Development Standards • Permitting Processes • Market • Buyer/Renter Perceptions • Land Acquisition/Assemblage • Adjacent Uses • Retail/Services • Incentives Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 13 of 86 EN00"ren-ton s* From the wide ranging discussion, notable comments include: • Interest in a Planned Action/Area-wide EIS to provide regulatory framework and defined mitigation measures for multiple projects. • Developing strategies for providing missing infrastructure/closing gaps and allowing shared facilities to avoid costs of repetitive, site -by -site stormwater facilities. • Establishing flexibility in allowable lot sizes to encourage creative use of available land. • Street standards and public works approvals could be brought into alignment to match small lot and higher density development allowed in land use code —need to allow narrower local streets, parking areas, and alleys to reduce impervious surface (and stormwater facility sizing) while still providing safe access. • Interest in RHA's plans for Sunset Terrace and off -site replacement housing. These projects could set a higher standard for other development or be a "chilling" effect on the wider community if not well designed to integrate with the neighborhood. The Property Owner Focus Group was held on August 19, 2009, and included both commercial and residential interests. Through the discussion of opportunities and challenges for the Sunset Area, the following points were areas of general agreement amongst the attendees: • Sunset Boulevard is a defining feature for the neighborhood. Improvements to the street could significantly impact perceived property values. • Open space and greenery are seen as amenities which would enhance the identity of the neighborhood The up -zoning done in conjunction with the Task Force work was received positively by property owners, and there was some discussion of recent private investments in the area, including an upgrade to the Safeway store, and the current Harrington Square residential development. The group expressed interest in potential improvements to the area. Elected Officials Workshop: City Council, School Board and Housing Authority Board Meeting in the evening on August 24, the Renton City Council hosted the Renton School Board and the Renton Housing Authority's Board of Commissioners at the Highlands Recreation Center. Policymakers considered the tension between local and regional roles that the following five key elements of community investment in the Sunset Area, as illustrated in the chart below. • Transportation ---SR 900 • Education--- Early Childhood through Middle School • Public Library • Parks and Community Recreation Centers • Public Housing ---Sunset Terrace Redevelopment Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUNI MIT Page 14 of 86 • - Sunset Area in a Regional Context Regional F • Corridor connection between 1-405 and Issaquah • Demand pressure from growing population outside the study area • Need for larger facility and more services to better serve city residents as Renton's second library • Programs draw youth from across the city • Public housing serves residents beyond the Sunset Area and could be resdistributed Sunset Blvd/ SR 900 Early Childhood, Primary, & Middle Schools Local • Main street for Sunset Area • Space available (field and buildings) is greater than immediate neighborhood needs • Small neighborhood Library library with limited services Parks & Community Recreation Centers Sunset Terrace Redevelopment Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 15 of 86 • Multiple sites in very close proximity • Current site could become a new focal point for more diverse uses and population in the area, along with replacement housing infill nearby OWWr• Renton Community Open House On September 10, 2009, a community open house was held at the Highlands Community Center. After the outdoor barbeque, community members were invited to view and comment on a series of displays. The first group of displays was informational, and did not present new proposals: • A Report Card on City efforts to implement the Task Force II action items (see page 6); • A diagram showing locations of new curb ramps and sidewalk replacement projects in the Sunset Area (see page 17); and • An information station describing the Renton Housing Authority's Goals for a revitalized Sunset Terrace (see page 22). The majority of the Open House was devoted to highly visual displays and maps showing diverse ideas for Community Investment, some of which had been identified through the Task Force processes. Attendees were asked to comment on flip charts, as well as "vote" yes or no on variations of these concepts. A facsimile of those displays is included in the appendix. Picnic at the Highlands Community Center Final Stakeholders Workshop -- Community Open House City, School District, Renton Housing Authority The team met on September 22 at the RHA offices for two purposes: 1. To review the input received from the public presentation Open House, and 2. To evaluate draft recommended priorities. Staff who facilitated public input at the September 10 event reported on notable input from community members, as well as general levels of interest or concern about concepts presented that evening. While not at all statistically valid, tallies of attendee "votes" showed generally positive levels of support for many of the concepts. Representative questions and narrative comments collected (see Appendix) were also shared with the team. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN am Page 16 of 86 enton Notable among the observations was a consensus that the order of presentation (i.e, first topic) somewhat skewed community sentiment against the possibility of consolidating recreation facilities. When that concept was discussed with open house attendees after reviewing the full array of Community Investment Strategy possibilities, the notion of re -aligning programs and facilities between the two existing facilities was more openly considered. To evaluate draft proposed actions, the consultant team offered six evaluation criteria: 1. Community Support 2. Low or No Capital Cost 3. Visibility/Image 4. Current Land Control 5. Multiple Policy Goals 6. Leverage Investments Each of the items (as presented at the Community Open House) were reviewed with the team using the six evaluation criteria, yielding a rough priority order and, for some items, identification of preferred locations. The recommendations shown and discussed below reflect that team discussion and incorporate considerations collected through the other project activities conducted. Small group discussion: Community Gathering IST Stakeholders Workshop Small group discussion: Catalyst Actions Small group discussion: Walkable Community Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 18 of 86 VI. RECOMMENDED COMMUNITY INVESTMENT STRATEGY Through the work with the Interdepartmental/Interagency Team, and stakeholder and community input, the team developed a set of recommended Community Investment Strategies for the Sunset Area. These proposed investment strategies are intended to complement each other, working together to form a cohesive plan which addresses multiple needs and market sectors in the neighborhood. The Community Investment Strategies which are recommended in order of priority include: 1. Support Sunset Terrace Redevelopment 2. Pursue Planned Action EIS 3. Incorporate new Highlands Library in to Sunset Terrace Redevelopment 4. Incorporate a public plaza as a community "third place" in to Sunset Terrace Redevelopment 5. Creation of one or more Community Gardens 6. Design and construct pedestrian, landscaping improvements on Sunset Boulevard 7. Consider opportunities to make "green connections" by integrating stormwater conveyance systems in new and existing infrastructure that also serve as community amenities 8. Better utilization of recreation and park facilities 9. Explore development of a Family Village on North Highlands "Superblock" The planning team was asked to provide guidance for the City as it considers the recommended investments. While many of the recommended investments will come from standard city operating or capital funds, with which City staff are intimately familiar, we have outlined a logical funding strategy given our understanding of how similar investments have been funded in other municipalities. As cost estimates for each investment are defined, additional funding sources and challenges may arise. To leverage the opportunities for community revitalization presented by RHA's proposed Sunset Terrace redevelopment, the City —along with RHA and Renton School District— will benefit from closely tracking and positioning for pending Federal resources. First and most prominent of these is HOPE VI. This program remains the mainstay of HUD public housing and enjoys strong Congressional support. Currently interest in the program far outstrips available resources. Moreover, the Federal Government is looking to align and prioritize housing reinvestment as part of holistic community development. To that end, the proposed Choice Neighborhoods Initiative emphasizes the active partnership of schools, libraries, non-profit community & human service providers as successful recipients of federal revitalization resources. More specifically, a recent HUD press release the challenge: "...to extend neighborhood transformation efforts beyond public housing and link housing interventions more closely with school reform and early childhood innovation." In this context, the City of Renton's visionary leadership and actively engaging RHA and RSD that is demonstrated with the Community Investment Strategy should be explicitly pursued to best position for future Federal resources. As strategic next step, efforts toward crafting a Quality of Life Bond issuance —and its role as local match— should carefully consider how to attract the full complement of public funding, including but not limited to the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative and the Sustainable Communities Partnership (comprised of HUD, the Department of Transportation, and the Environmental Protection Agency). Because many of the CIS elements are interrelated, we recommend an interrelated approach to funding strategies. A detailed outline of funding strategies related to each CIS element is located in the Funding Strategy section of this report, which describes how they relate to one another so that the critical path strategies are informed by secondary strategies. The recommended Community Investment Strategies (CIS) are diagrammed to indicate their location and relationship to each other. Options for each CIS element were studied to determine the best location, as well as advantages, disadvantages, and its relationship to other elements. These options are indicated by letters, and are listed in no particular order. The matrices correspond to the diagrams. The recommended strategies have been grouped into a series of diagrams for ease of readability. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 19 of 86 • JIf enton 1. Support Sunset Terrace Redevelopment Because of its prominent location in the Sunset Area and the significant potential for new housing and services through the Renton Housing Authority's redevelopment of Sunset Terrace, the City's support of this endeavor has been identified as the top priority for the Community Investment Strategy. Existing property owners, community members, and potential developers have all noted that an improved image of the Sunset Area is critical to its success. The redevelopment process will also include a phasing and relocation plan, and likely additional infill housing within the Sunset Area. The following image (on page 18) is the informational board describing RHA's effort that was presented at the Community Open House. Along with residential development, the Sunset Terrace site presents opportunities for a new library, third place, and focus for Sunset Boulevard improvements which are further described in the following sections. 2. Pursue Planned Action EIS Engaging in the Sunset CIS process identified opportunities for leverage and synergy in ways that could benefit from an integrated Environmental Review process. There are multiple benefits of this approach. First, coordinated analyses can give a more comprehensive picture of the demographic composition and changes in the area, constraints on physical sites, transportation and a host of land use issues that intersect among various, otherwise "stand-alone" projects. Moreover, a Planned Action EIS could serve as the first step in an ongoing integration for the planning and capital project development decisions of the three key public entities: the City of Renton, Renton Housing Authority and the Renton School District. Finally, a Planned Action EIS would serve as a significant incentive to private development as it would reduce cost and process time for future proposals. The concept was received positively by participants of the Developer Focus Group. Several major opportunities and potential (re)development opportunities could be analyzed and alternatives evaluated under an area -wide Planned Action EIS. These include: • Renton Housing Authority's revitalization of Sunset Terrace • Renton School District's capital facilities needs/ replacement and/or realignment • Sunset Boulevard improvements GLOSSARY Planned Action EIS A Planned Action EIS (Environmental Impact Statement) is a provision which acts as a mechanism for expediting project review and permitting. A city planning under GMA may designate specified types of development within a defined geographic area. The prospective impacts and infrastructure needs of future development within the planned action area are addressed in a programmatic (i.e., non -project) EIS. A planned action EIS functions similar to a subarea plan, serving as the "umbrella" environmental review document for planned development within the defined area. Third Place A place where people spend time that is neither home nor work. These places involve community and social interaction that can be both formal (e.g. shopping, talking, a performance) and informal (e.g. meeting up with friends, chatting with strangers). Parks, businesses, restaurants, and public plazas can be the community "third place" depending on how they are used by the community. Superblock A block that is significantly larger than traditional neighborhood blocks in the area. Often, this large block size will result in limited access for traffic and pedestrians. An example in the Sunset Area is Hillcrest. Green Infrastructure Green infrastructure is the interconnected network of open spaces and natural areas, such as greenways, wetlands, parks, forest preserves and native plant vegetation, that naturally manages stormwater, reduces flooding risk and improves water quality. Green infrastructure usually costs less to install and maintain when compared to traditional forms of infrastructure. LID Low Impact Development: an approach to land development (or re- development) that works with nature to manage stormwater as close to its source as possible. LID employs principles such as preserving and recreating natural landscape features, minimizing effective imperviousness to create functional and appealing site drainage that treat stormwater as a resource rather than a waste product. • Potential public stormwater facility development serving desired new private development as well as public facilities and rights of way (Green Connections). In order to proceed with the Sunset Terrace redevelopment, the RHA must complete a SEPA/NEPA process. This may be the "catalyst need" for a more neighborhood level environmental analysis. A more comprehensive effort would serve multiple policy objectives. Among them, it is worth noting that citizens do not differentiate among units of local government, and rightfully expect best use of public resources. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 21 of 86 Sunset Terrace/RHA Renton Housing Authority Property - Sunset Area _ Publicand affordable housing L t9000 ma.. land 200 ep re, 9 market rate housing thcr Other N MOM- 7Fi� LEA r,=fyoE Proposed Timeline Depending upon available funding, the Sunset Terrace redevelopment project would likely be completed in multiple phases over the next five to ten years. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 22 of 86 Current Sunset Terrace 100 units for low income families & individuals living with a disability Potential Redevelopment Opportunities (at Sunset Terrace and/or at other sites) 1-to-1 unit replacement for all 100 existing units Redevelop Sunset Terrace with mixed -income, mixed -use residential and commercial space and public amenities. Create up to 200 additional new affordable housing units and potentially 300 new moderate income to market rate housing units. Facilitate potential public amenities, including a community gathering or "Third Place"; a new recreation/ community center; a new library; a new park/open space; retail shopping and commercial space; parking; and/ or green infrastructure. Pp"re6n ton I 3. Incorporate new Highlands Library into Sunset Terrace Redevelopment The current Highlands Library building, while well maintained and utilized, is undersized for the population it serves. Its location is also secluded from the primary commercial and amenity uses in the neighborhood. A new library, in a mixed -use building, and in conjunction with a "third place" where residents and visitors can gather, is recommended as an investment element. This action builds off of the Task Force recommendation to support expansion of the Highland Library. The library could be combined with residential, commercial, or retail uses which would help to activate the space throughout the day. A library is also a good "anchor tenant" in a mixed -use development to attract activity. In working with RHA, a land swap with the existing library site could be considered. Possible actions include coordination and further exploration with RHA and other public agencies, with a goal of negotiations in 2010 and bond funding in 2011. 4. Incorporate a public plaza as a community "third place" into Sunset Terrace Redevelopment The "third place" is envisioned as a public plaza to provide a flexible space for gathering, celebrations, and other events, along with casual interactions. Key to the success of the library and plaza serving as the community gathering place that is so desired will be the ability of these spaces to be perceived as assets in and of themselves, rather than "add-ons" to the Sunset Terrace redevelopment. Because the third place will require capital investments, it is essential that it is sited in the best location to ensure its utility and benefit to the larger community. Care should be given to the design of these facilities. To create the desired variety, flexibility and enriched character of a "third place", it is recommended that the developer consider engaging different design consultants for each segment of the project. This concept can be coordinated with RHA and their board during discussions regarding the library. 5. Creation of one or more Community Gardens Development of one or more community gardens is recommended to provide an open space as a gathering place, passive recreation, and educational opportunities. This is a fairly low-cost way to provide a valuable amenity to the neighborhood, and if located in a visible place, can also add value to potential future development. Ideally, a community garden should be between 0.5 and 1.0 acres, and located on underutilized land. Potential sites already under City ownership include the site of the current Highlands Library (to the west of the building) and the hillside between the Highlands Neighborhood Center and Highlands Elementary School. A community garden on this hillside would be built up terraces on the park property, and could include raised beds for handicapped accessibility. Access to parking would need to be further studied. Community Garden design incorporating terraces Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 23 of 86 LIBRARY — THIRD PLACE — COMMUNITY GARDENS i 41M�.; 4 .# St r.+GL r HE Rh St w � Ah 04 ' PLF Ear! !, - r al .. LEGEND - � 4k� : Y : • Library IL116 4 ' R j ++• • Third Place Community Gardens Family Village i Park and Rec Util T� i ? Sunset Blvd Green Connections Or ' .._... Proposed Planned �� ! r R Action EIS Study Area � (i.e., Sunset CIS Study e ■ a .� .� �r- Area) NOTE: The letters on the diagram correspond to K� options described in the matrices. They are not _ �+ Ir listed in a particular order i or intended to indicate priority. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN �• Page 24 of 86 LIBRARY — THIRD PLACE — COMMUNITY GARDENS LIBRARY Advantages Challenges Preferred Linkage to other CIS Projects option? /Notes a) Existing Site Site controlled by City; Low visibility; Space Excellent Community Garden location well known by constraints opportunity with north -south patrons green connection b) Sunset High Visibility; Develop as truly public Separate design and Terrace publicly -controlled and not perceived O development process distinct redevelopment site; as "part of RHXs from RHA; explore institutional redevelopment condominium supporting shared parking and management of mixed-use/third place plaza c) South Side of High Visibility; Development complexity Public investment on this site Sunset (vacant Would provide of library as "catalyst" for would provide assurances parcel) pedestrian -oriented mixed -use project against continued vacancy or ground floor rental a new, auto -oriented project occupying a key "gateway" parcel THIRD PLACE Advantages Challenges Preferred Linkage to other CIS Projects option? /Notes a) Bowling Alley Near social activities No critical mass of Plaza of bowling; high residential or pedestrian - visibility from Sunset oriented retail Blvd b) Harrington & Key gateway is "100% No market -driven See Library Option (c) Sunset (vacant location" development to leverage lot) as partner c) Sunset Strong Visibility at key Must be perceived as O See notes at Library Option (b) Terrace intersection; view and truly "public" space, not solar orientation as RHA "project" d) Triangle at Excess right-of-way/ Lacks critical mass or 12th/ Kirkland redundant street adjacency to activity space center/destination Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 25 of 86 r• un ton LIBRARY — THIRD PLACE — COMMUNITY GARDENS COMMUNITY Advantages Challenges Preferred Linkage to other CIS Projects GARDENS option? /Notes a) Highlands Underutilized land; Access modifications/ Can support and integrate with Park Hillside solar orientation; rec improvements require O green connections and possible center programs can RSD/City cooperation/ stormwater conveyance support gardeners MOU, ADA access, Distance from parking b) Terrace Underutilized land; Must be designed as part Pedestrian path and terrace Hillside solar orientation; RHA of Sunset Terrace site garden access should be programs can support plan included in Sunset Boulevard gardeners & nutrition Improvement plan, yet education may be built with RHA site redevelopment c) Harrington Underutilized land; Balance with other Catalyst action as part of Ave parcel solar orientation; possible open space larger park & recreation facility proximity to new/ uses utilization strategy additional Sunset Terrace residents; City controlled parcel d) Library Site Solar Orientation, Dependent on Library Strong element in a system of proximity to existing relocation; in short term O Green Connections, especially apartments, publicly- could create small garden using the publicly -owned north - owned on west side of building south corridor Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 26 of 86 This page intentionally left blank. Potential green connection stormwater conveyance on leeting rooms, ommunity services nd potential RHA ffices oading and parking ccess lew library in mixed - se building with 3sidential above Third Place" Plaza: Gathering Performances Farmer's market nprove crosswalk at larrington Avenue Library and Third Place concept at Sunset Terrace Sunset Terrace Redevelopment Opportunities The above diagram depicts a concept based on potential redevelopment plans for Sunset Terrace on behalf of RHA. It incorporates the development of a new library in a mixed -use building along Sunset Boulevard, as well as a public plaza. The combination of these three uses: library, mixed use development and plaza, create what we are defining as a "third place", which can be used by all residents, neighbors, and visitors as a place to gather or hang-out. These amenities would focus activity at the intersection of Harrington Avenue and Sunset Boulevard, as the hill crests and one feels a sense of arrival into the Sunset Area. It also depicts potential future development on the vacant parcel (privately owned) on the south side of Sunset Boulevard, which could benefit from the proposed amenities. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 28 of 86 enton � Library/Third Place Concept Rendering Third Place The artist rendering above begins to depict the spirit of the "third place". The library and building to the left provide a frame and create a backdrop to a very active and flexible plaza. It is the intent that the buildings and plaza be very interconnected; interior/exterior spaces flowing in and out; emphasis on ground -related retail, such as a cafe/bookstore; outdoor seating (under cover and open to the sky); and performance venues. Harrington Avenue is rendered as being part of the plaza adding to the pedestrian oriented character of the place. The incorporation of housing will provide that "eyes on the street" and 24/7 urban flavor. The "third place" has the potential to become the common living room for this cultural, socio-economic diverse community as well as a regional destination. Community improvements Improvements to the intersection of Harrington and Sunset Blvd are recommended that would provide a safe and clear pedestrian crossing of Sunset Blvd. This is imperative and is shown on the diagram to the left. Along with improvements to overall Sunset Blvd corridor the improvements to the intersection will provide the desired pedestrian connection knitting the south and north neighborhoods together. The concept also suggests that Harrington Avenue be designated as part of the green connection stormwater conveyance network, contributing to the notion of a eco-friendly community. It is important to create diversity of design and variety of character for this complex. Although the development of this complex is within RHA owned property and part of the Sunset Terrace redevelopment, it's strongly encouraged that different designers be chosen for the various projects. This will prevent the development becoming too homogenous and promote a rich and textured urban fabric. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN WOOD Page 29 of 86 am 6. Design and construct pedestrian, landscaping improvements on Sunset Boulevard Because of the immediate impact on the image of the Sunset Area, improvements to Sunset Boulevard are highly recommended and supported by residents, property owners, and developers alike. Improvements would create a gateway and sense of place for the area, as well as enhanced pedestrian safety through traffic calming using improved crossings and landscaped medians. The improvements should consider: • Art • Community garden along adjacent hillside • Use of special paving materials • Special corridor lighting/graphics • Frontage road concept — pedestrian zone between roadway and retail/commercial • Promote retail frontage with parking in back • Encourage shared entries — less curb cuts along Sunset Blvd — entries off of side streets • Continue tree canopy • Accommodate bikes (per Trails and Bicycle Masterplan) These improvements should be focused between Edmonds and Monroe Avenues, with scoping and an RFP issued in the first quarter of 2010. Coordination with WSDOT will be required. A recommended approach for the design of the improvements between Edmonds and Monroe Avenues is to divide this segment of Sunset Boulevard into three zones. Each zone would emphasize different characteristics while still maintaining a sense of continuity. The three zones are named Hillside, Core and East and are delineated on the diagram to the right. A brief description of the character of the particular zone and a list of potential enhancements and improvements follows. Hillside Zone The western gateway to the Sunset Community, the Hillside zone although somewhat constricted, provides a gracious and exciting entry experience, because of the topography. Below are a few criteria to be considered regarding improvements within this zone: • Emphasize the hillside with a thoughtful landscape design that provides a very green and inviting gateway '' t.� 1. — ��I�■ McKnight j - i Diddle ScWol aR- ■ — �� "■■ IyO=IJ'i r OW"'Ar "J6 M, falflrl Hillsidel Core I East Sunset Boulevard improvement area showing three zones: Hillside, Core and East (conceptual sections on following page) (refer to Hillside Zone conceptual section on the following page); • Develop planted median; • Provide hillside walkway parallel to the roadway and eliminate the sidewalk adjacent to the roadway; • Street tree planting; • Incorporate special lighting; • Potential location of community garden on a portion of the hillside, this terraced park/garden would need special care and maintenance to maintain a sense of elegance for the gateway; • Incorporate art; • Coordinate design with the redevelopment of Sunset Terrace. ■ Core Zone This zone could be defined as the "heart/crossroads" of the Sunset Community. Harrington Avenue crosses Sunset Boulevard and creates a major north -south connection. The future Sunset Terrace redevelopment, along with the establishment of a "third place" and new mixed use Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 30 of 86 enton � Conceptual street section A for Sunset Boulevard, Hillside zone Conceptual street section B for Sunset Boulevard, East zone Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN �• Page 31 of 86 development will transform this as a vital and active 7. Consider opportunities to make "green connections" community space. Below are a few criteria to be considered by integrating stormwater conveyance systems in new regarding improvements within this zone: • Special paving treatment at the Harrington and Sunset intersection that promotes a safe and friendly north - south connection for the pedestrian; • Develop a planted median incorporating left turn pockets; • Establish a character that encourages retail/ commercial fronting the street and a pedestrian friendly atmosphere; • Street tree planting; • Incorporate special lighting; and • Incorporate art. East Zone This zone currently is the location of many of the retail and businesses on this segment of Sunset Boulevard. Many of these establishments are set back a significant distance from the roadway with large parking reservoirs in front along the sidewalk. This zone has the benefit of large and mature street trees. Below are a few criteria to be considered regarding improvements within this zone: • Create a frontage road, either by public investment or private development thus creating a pedestrian friendly zone (refer to East Zone Sunset Blvd section on the previous page); • Develop planted median; • Street tree planting; • Incorporate special lighting; • Incorporate art; • Explore the idea of branding the zone that promotes and equally emphasizes a regional retail draw as well as local draw. Bulb -out A bulb -out, or curb extension, extends the sidewalk or curb line into the street, reducing the street pavement width. Bulb -outs calm traffic speeds and improve pedestrian crossings. They shorten crossing distances and reduce the time pedestrians are exposed to traffic. They also improve visibility for pedestrians and motorists. Complete Streets Complete streets are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users. Pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders of all ages and abilities must be able to safely move along and across a complete street. and existing infrastructure that also serve as community amenities The Task Force identified infrastructure improvements, walkways and public spaces, and stormwater facilities as high priorities. In addition, there is an interest on behalf of the development community to reduce stormwater infrastructure burden as an incentive. The Green Connections concept combines these ideas to create a district -level strategy comprised of improvements to the public right-of-way. Rather than a single, regional stormwater facility proposed in the Task Force recommendations, Green Connections represents a distributed approach to stormwater management. This distributed approach is compatible with the incremental development that will occur in the Sunset Area over time, which also means the capital investments can occur in a discreet manner. The use of this incremental and integrated approach to stormwater is not only more cost effective but will provide superior water quality and volume reductions when compared to traditional detention ponds and the like. The Green Connections concept combines: 1. rainwater parks, 2. hydraulically functional landscaping, and 3. linear, natural drainage courses, with bike and pedestrian enhancements. These improvements would be coordinated throughout the district, and could include walkway and trail enhancements to connect neighborhood amenities, utilizing existing and new landscape elements and planning strips along streets for stormwater treatment and retention, as well as potentially closing some local streets to cars. This concept is consistent with the proposed Complete Streets design standards, and adds a stormwater function component to the right-of-way design. Every time a bulb -out is added to intersections for traffic calming, or a planting strip or tree well is added behind the curb of a new street bioretention cells (raingardens) should be included in design to provide stormwater quality and quantity benefits. The significant opportunities for new rainwater parks are discussed in the following matrix. An engineering feasibility study is recommended to examine the district wide stormwater needs in terms of volume reduction, peak flow mitigation, conveyance and Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUNJL Page 32 of 86 SUNSET BOULEVARD — GREEN CONNECTIONS 1=1 jig - ------ op IL '. �. I kanii, f �j *. i tier 02 III # ,p}qL �! 4, ir 4 , INSdodo IL hill QE1. -40 TZ!:j t: -- _-- `. LEGEND �' �. 1 s r ■ — - t11. Library 4P Third Place L jr I - - Community Gardens Family Village Willi 1 # � Park and Rec Util y ; :�• - - Sunset Blvd Green Connections f I i4� � � •� �� '* -_ ��I - I __ : _� I Rainwater Gardens ' S ■ tx' yr.°� } —••• Proposed Planned Action EIS Study Area (i.e., Sunset CIS Study �. �.�. .i#+.• Area) Irx - NOTE: Ll diagram correspond The letters on the .: i 9 P 4 :�* f a i and to options described in the #s • ; i matrices. They are not al I+I iklw listed in a particular order if j�r "► I��,� or intended to indicate • �• , r r. * ! I� �w r priority. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 34 of 86 SUNSET BOULEVARD — GREEN CONNECTIONS rdi} r 'Z r' g 1t .� � • .I1 f' a !•IR t i. 1 ; w f I+ IN • lit F , r Ek- M . K XIL #.tom■ r..,+'` } i31sr� ; AS I # q � r 1 10OR HE LIM .4 Ilk Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 34 of 86 ■ LEGEND • Library • Third Place Community Gardens Family Village Park and Rec Util Sunset Blvd Green Connections Rainwater Gardens ••—••• Proposed Planned Action EIS Study Area (i.e., Sunset CIS Study Area) NOTE: The letters on the diagram correspond to options described in the matrices. They are not listed in a particular order or intended to indicate priority. enton * SUNSET BOULEVARD — GREEN CONNECTIONS SUNSET Advantages Challenges Preferred Linkage to other CIS Projects BOULEVARD option? /Notes Improved High visibility locations Working cooperatively Supports connectivity within pedestrian to pilot "Complete with WSDOT and O neighborhood and among crossings Street" design regional function of SR destinations 900 Planted medians Integrate into Working cooperatively O Occasionally neighborhood while with WSDOT and providing regional regional function of SR connectivity 900 Retail/Local Support local Design must assure O Include signage, pedestrian way Access businesses improved pedestrian finding and support for parking improvement realm and safety management measures GREEN Advantages Challenges Preferred Linkage to other CIS Projects CONNECTIONS option? /Notes a) Sunset Consolidated Balancing residential O RHA redevelopment master Terrace ownership of large program needs with plan development site site area for green infrastructure b) Highlands O Park & Recreation Facility Park Utilization c) Harrington Catalyst/Pilot with Rainwater park function Sunset Terrace Redevelopment Avenue Parcel high visibility showing will require coordination O master plan positive change with Sunset Terrace before RHA site master planning if redevelopment designed to serve any of that off -site load d) Family Discrete sub -basin in Will require property (further Family Village ---see artist's Village at North which stormwater can transfer and/or study) sketch Highlands be managed on -site easements and within the superblock establishment of Low - Impact Development District Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 35 of 86 EMMM"renton s* - 8. Better utilization of recreation and park facilities As noted in the neighborhood amenities section, the Sunset Area has a significant amount of public space and facilities as compared to other areas in Renton. Through the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Masterplan update, the utilization of these parks and recreation centers should be evaluated. Along with the School District strategic planning, joint use agreements should be considered to maximize resources and operational budgets. In evaluating open space and parks for the neighborhood, there should be a focus on the programming of spaces, to provide a variety of active and passive opportunities for recreation and activity. In particular, senior recreation needs should be considered. Existing parks and open spaces could be enhanced by adding rain gardens, community gardens, and pedestrian or trail improvements. The birdseye view below illustrates potential expansion of the Highlands Recreation Center, better utilizing available land for both built facilities as well as outdoor spaces including rain gardens and a community garden on the unused hillside between the park and the school. Recreation field Rainwater/ wetland park Community garden, at perimeter of field terraces with accessible pathways New recreational facility: • Gym and fitness Highlands Elementary • Classrooms School • Meeting rooms Existing court games: • Small theater Basketball, 4-square, • Kitchen Tennis • Outdoor terrace - Y }.�. • etc. titi 4 .� r - S'9� x Children's play area F Entry court and plaza - w Passive recreation Green connections opportunity in Edmonds Ave R.O.W. Artist's drawing of an expanded recreation facility at Highlands Park and Community Center Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN ■ Page 36 of 86 is= 9. Explore development of a Family Village on North Highlands "Superblock" The `superblock' at Hillcrest represents an unusual opportunity for the City, School District, and Renton Housing Authority to leverage resources. Through our information gathering, stakeholder interviews, and analysis, this property was identified as an ideal location for a "Family Village." This is envisioned as a coordination of educational and open space amenities, programming, and new residences. An intergenerational family center could provide early childhood and senior programming, green mixed -income residential units could be added to the site, and low -impact stormwater facilities would also upgrade the infrastructure. This idea was tested with the Developer Focus Group, who expressed interest in the concept, with RHA as the "master developer". In addition, the intergenerational interaction could provide benefit to various population groups. The addition of o`P" ♦ �' a health clinic should also be explored. The School District is also considering the Hillcrest Elementary School site for early childhood programs and could L� Hillcrest t potentially house additional programs that would benefit the community, Terrace such as daycare facilities. It is recommended that a feasibility analysis be enta (RHA) conducted, along with coordination with the School District as it progresses with strategic planning. Community facilites complex: ---\ • Early childhood education center • Senior center • Daycare • Community services • Conference rooms • Fitness, arts, etc. • Plaza/ oudoor seating, Greer} Connection in 16th Street R.O.W. Senior housing Community garden Remote, shared parking lot Cottage/ courtyard green housing Artist's drawing of the Family Village concept at Hillcrest Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 37 of 86 Highlands gr 1 N Park Y r 16th 4Sa►Alf 4\4 "Superblock" at Hillcrest; existing ownership includes the City, School District, and RHA Rainwater park/ passive recreation field Children's play area Interior green' - pedestrian corridors/ walkways ENOW"renton s* PARK & RECREATION UTILIZATION — FAMILY VILLAGE ■ 1 t RL is Ob .tom~ ~ "r I i �w'ry.,.! t. `i ' ■■ ,� It Wei C � � 6 1 r 44�y44 - ■ P ' 1 4w I ■ �'IM if ■ ■ i f d'f a - P * — 1. tr T{r u -, - F r L *.+• Panel x — zi. W. WizUk : Irk41 ' + Fmk # # t .* Irdo IL Ali EL r 1 L� 11 IL 1, r ty�Y# w ♦ ..ram. t ! � ' � I � to �� h — - LEGEND • Library • Third Place Community Gardens Family Village Park and Rec Util Sunset Blvd t Green Connections .._... Proposed Planned Action EIS Study Area (i.e., Sunset CIS Study Area) NOTE: The letters on the diagram correspond to options described in the matrices. They are not listed in a particular order or intended to indicate priority. Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN • Page 38 of 86 PARK & RECREATION UTILIZATION — FAMILY VILLAGE FAMILY VILLAGE Advantages Challenges Preferred option? Linkage to other CIS Projects /Notes a) Hillcrest/ Current structures redundant Coordinating RSD, RHA Further Site development N Highlands and/or obsolete for range and City's capital project study: timeline to support superblock of youth and family housing budgets and schedules; feasibility and service needs; site introducing family -serving control consolidated in public housing to replace ownership can facilitate green some of Sunset Terrace infrastructure and district units; re -orienting North energy investments Highlands Recreation Center to early childhood, family and intergenerational services PARK AND Advantages Challenges Preferred Linkage to other CIS RECREATION option? Projects /Notes FACILITY UTILIZATION a) Library Site Community Garden site with Depends on new Library See Library options north -south open space/trail construction above connection b) North Replace obsolete recreation Coordinating RSD, RHA Further Family Village; Highlands center with cluster of early- and City's capital project study: Community Garden; Family Village childhood learning, senior, and budgets and schedules; feasibility Sunset Terrace off -site Center family -serving park and open replacement housing space when reconfiguring the superblock c) Sunset Opportunity to add usable Need to balance space Terrace public space and limited indoor for housing needs O community space as part of with desire to add un- RHA site redevelopment programmed open space d) Expand Available space for additional Hillside community Highlands Park built and outdoor facilities O garden; Green Recreation Connections and Center rainwater park improvements e) Harrington Adjacent to Sunset Terrace Community garden; Avenue parcel and its future needs O Green connections for additional usable and rainwater park neighborhood parks development Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 39 of 86 r• un ton This page intentionally left blank. VII. FURTHER STUDY Renton Housing Authority Office Property Located at 2900 NE 10th Street, the Renton Housing Authority's administrative offices occupy the majority of a one-story structure on a 1.28 acre site which it owns. Index Avenue NE is a local -serving public street to the west that separates the RHA office parcel from private properties that front directly onto Sunset Boulevard. The property is also located with close proximity to the Harrington Square development and other residential buildings. As part of the Sunset CIS process of investigating opportunities for creating "critical mass" of activities in the study area, co -location of public facilities was explored as one of several strategies. As part of that strategy, the RHA office site was identified for further study in two respects: 1. In developing the site and space program for the revitalized Sunset Terrace, RHA should closely examine opportunities to bring RHA central administration activities to the "flagship" redevelopment at Sunset Terrace. This could add a level of desirable daytime activity and pedestrian traffic to Sunset Terrace, and could take advantage of time -of -day shared parking with some of Sunset Terrace's residential demand. 2. The existing 1.28 acre RHA office parcel at 2900 NE 10th should be analyzed as a real property asset in RHA's overall portfolio. Any such analysis would likely include consideration of the property (or a portion of it) for other commercial, retail, market -rate residential and/or mixed use development. Birdseye view of the Renton Housing Authority office property Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN pam Page 41 of 86 This page intentionally left blank. VIII. FUNDING STRATEGY 1. Support Sunset Terrace Redevelopment Many of investment decisions work in conjunction with the decision -making process for Sunset Terrace. The reason for linking the investment items below with an investigation of how such items could be incorporated into the Sunset Terrace redevelopment is two -fold. First, it is a project that has a potential critical mass to re -brand the area and catalyze reinvestment across the sub -area. Second, Sunset Terrace's land is an ideal location for the library and the public ("third place" plaza) given its location on the major arterial in the center of the sub -area, which will help maximize the use of the planned investments by the population across the sub -area. 2. Facilitate entitlement via a planned action EIS Funds will have be identified for a planned action EIS, which would be paid for by the City, most likely with some degree of participation with the Renton Housing Authority. • Potential funding sources: City General Funds via departmental allocations, state or federal grants funds. 3. Incorporate the new Highlands Library into the Sunset redevelopment • Secure funding for the new Highlands Library, which will require capital funds provided by the City, assuming that the King County Library District assumes operating responsibilities (and funding of such responsibilities) in the future. This is a required capital expenditure. • Potential funding sources: new city revenue fund (a levy would be required, such as is contemplated as the "Quality of Life" initiative), state or federal grant funds. 4. Incorporate a public plaza as a "community third place" into the Sunset Terrace Redevelopment • Capital funds would be required, either from the City of Renton via a CIP or new bond levy (e.g., the "Quality of Life" bond), or state or federal government grants. 5. Site a Community Garden on the Current Library Site Some degree of capital funds would be needed to create a community garden on the current library site, along with land acquisition (in the eventuality that the library itself is relocated). Acquisition costs for a replacement library would be greatly reduced or eliminated if the City has surplus land that could be used for a new library, or can incorporate a new library into the Sunset Terrace Redevelopment at reduced or zero land cost. Potential capital improvement funds include: • New city-wide ("Quality of Life") bond levy • Future allocations (CIP) from the general fund • Capital campaign • Partnership with a non-profit to develop the garden Potential sources of operating funds: • City Management • Departmental resources (e.g., Community Services) • User Fees • Co-op/non-profit management Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUN Page 43 of 86 • - �•�` 6.Design and construct pedestrian, landscaping improvements on Sunset Boulevard Assumed to be a discrete investment item since this could go forward absent a commitment on the part of Renton Housing Authority to redevelop Sunset Terrace, or at least prior to a such a commitment, which might take a long time. • Since the largest beneficiaries of the investment would be local users, a logical source of funding would be via the creation of a (LID/BID) which would use an special assessment on property taxes to pay for some or all of the improvements. Alternatively, a transportation benefit district (TBD) would create another stream of revenue (e.g. taxes on vehicles) to fund improvements. Finally, in as much as these improvements advance vehicle and pedestrian safety of this State Route, WSDOT granting programs should be targeted. If there is an opportunity to tie these improvements into existing or desired transit stops along Sunset Boulevard, Federal Transit Administration grants should be targeted. 7. Consider opportunities to make "green connections" by integrating stormwater conveyance systems in new and existing infrastructure that also serve as community amenities The distributed approach to stormwater management means that capital improvements will occur over a period of time, as sites redevelop. The city would likely want to create a district plan that identifies potential capital improvements and the location of such improvements (similar to the City of Seattle's Green Streets program), and then determine the degree to which private development is likely going to be politically wiling and financially able to pay for such improvements. • Funding for the planning process, including an engineering feasibility study, would likely be paid from by city operating funds or through state and local grants that could be captured by the City. • Funding for the capital improvements that comprise the "green connections" could be born entirely by the respective development entities via code mandate or incentives, shared between the development entities and city via a matching fund, or shared by the City and private development — with the city responsible for discreet items such as rainwater gardens. Key to making the program successful would be to understand the cost implications of any code - required green infrastructure and the degree to which development economics will be impacted by such mandates. The greater the impact on development feasibility, the more likely offsetting incentives will be required. • Depending on ownership, the facilities comprising the "green" connections may require operating funds, in particular the rain gardens. Utilities fees might be a logical source of such ongoing operations funding. 8. Better utilize recreation and park facilities This strategy has the potential to have very little direct capital cost, instead focusing on using the public land assets for greater public than they are currently. Programs that might help better utilize recreation and parks facilities, such as community gardens and rainwater gardens (discussed as an element of the "Green Connections" strategy) will have substantial capital, and potentially some operating, costs. 9. Explore development of a Family Village on North Highlands "Superblock" This strategy would also have little capital cost, with the City primarily being responsible for convening stakeholders such as the RHA, the School District and development groups and providing for a vision for redevelopment along with technical analysis. • The City may determine that, in addition to coordinating and facilitating stakeholder interaction, funding a development feasibility study might be in the City's best interest. This study would likely be paid from by city operating funds or through state and local grants that could be captured by the City. Depending on the condition of any existing buildings Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUNa; 117s W, Page 44 of 861111111111111111115 that might be incorporated, there may be State or Federal funds for energy efficiency upgrades or even renewable energy demonstration grants (roof mounted photovoltaics or urban wind turbines) that could help finance the project. Funding Strategy Outline Many of the community investment strategies are interrelated, and, as such, we recommend an interrelated approach to funding strategies. The following funding outline highlights the CIS strategies in bold, many of which relate to one another. We have linked these so that the critical path strategies are informed by secondary strategies. Primary Strategy Secondary Strategy Funding Type (Study, Most Likely Sources Capital, Operating) 1. Support Political and permitting N/A N/A Sunset Terrace support Redevelopment 2. Planned Action Study City/RHA share costs, potentially funded by EIS state/federal grant 3. New Highland Capital New bond levy Library 4. Public Plaza/Third Capital General Fund CIP, new bond levy, state/ Place federal grant 5. Community N/A Capital, Operating Capital funds: General Fund CIP, capital Garden campaign, non-profit development Operating funds: existing departmental resources, user fees, non-profit management 6. Sunset Boulevard Study, Capital Study funds: Departmental resources, Improvements WSDOT/ or Federal Transit Grants Capital funds: BID/LID, new bond levy, state/federal grant 7. Green Study, Capital, Operating Study funds: Departmental resources, Connections state/federal grant Capital funds: Private development, General Fund CIP, new bond levy, state/ federal grants Operating: Utilities fees 8. Better Utilize N/A N/A Parks and Recreation Facilities 9. Explore Family Study Existing departmental resources, state/ Village Concept I I federal grant Sunset Area Community Investment Strategy MITHUNJ1 I, J -a Page 45 of 86 - © Mithun 2009 This page intentionally left blank. Pier56 1201 Alaskan Way Seattle WA 98101 206.623.3344 mithun.com