HomeMy WebLinkAboutContract CAG-06-158
I JIM,, • •
Congestion Relief & Bus Rapid Transit 600-108th Avenue NE,Suite 405
Bellevue,WA 98004
Main 425=456-8500
Fax 425-456-8600
August 10, 2006 MS:NB82-250
Gregg Zimmerman, Planning/Building/Public Works Administrator
City of Renton
1055 South Grady Way
Renton, WA 98055
Dear Mr. Zimmerman:
Re: Letter of Concurrence
I-405 Cedar River Vicinity Charette Concept
This letter documents that the City of Renton and Washington State Department of Transportation
(WSDOT)concur with the July 2005, 1-405 Cedar River Vicinity Charette.
The City of Renton and WSDOT work accomplished through July 2005 by the I-405 Wells and Parks
Task Force was documented in a letter of concurrence dated July 8, 2005 and executed by the Mayor
of Renton on December 13, 2005. Though this task force addressed many of the design challenges that
are expected with implementation of the I-405 Corridor Program in the vicinity of the City's water
supply system, Liberty Park, Cedar River Park, and the Narco property, many outstanding issues and
decisions remain. To address some of these outstanding issues and decisions, a design charette was
held the week of July 11-14, 2005. The workshop, along with solutions identified through the process,
is summarized in the Cedar River Vicinity Charette, Solutions for Parks, Wells &Local Access report.
The primary challenge addressed in the charette was to identify a means for three major public
facilities—the City of Renton water supply system (pumps, wells and transmission facilities), the City
of Renton Liberty, Cedar River and Narco recreational facilities, and an improved (widened) Interstate
405—to co-exist in a physically constrained area. Each of these facilities provides an important
function to the public which can not be compromised. Through this charette process, the City and
WSDOT were able to develop a concept(as portrayed on pages 16 and 17 of the charette report) which
resolved the key issues associated with this primary challenge.
While this concept was a major step in defining a solution for this difficult situation, it is only one step
that is required to come to a complete resolution. Further details and refinements will be worked out as
the I-405 corridor program progresses through these additional project development stages:
• Footprint development for 1-405/1-5 to SR 169 Implementation Plan NEPA Environmental
Assessment-funded by the 2005 legislature and initiated with agency and public scoping
meetings held on May 23, 2006.
• 15% design development in preparation of I-405 Implementation Plan for selecting a design-
builder-currently unfunded.
• Final design and construction of the I-405 Implementation Plan by the selected design-builder-
currently unfunded.
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Gregg Zimmerman, Planning/1 Jing/Public Works Administrator
City of Renton too
Page 2
August 10,2006
Adequate design details to confirm the feasibility of the charette concept will be developed as the
project footprint is defined for the environmental assessment document. This is the stage of
development that will assure that the proposed I-405 improvements: 1) will not compromise the City's
water supply quality while maintaining the water transmission system and utility infrastructure and
access to the City's pumps and wells facilities; 2) will not diminish the recreational value of the City's
park facilities located in these areas adjacent to I-405; and 3)will provide congestion relief and safety
for the traveling public, including surface street options to accommodate the closing of Houser Way.
WSDOT will work closely with City staff to refine the design and develop additional details as the
engineering progresses. The project team will consider the charette concept and the City's Park Master
Plan as they progress with the Implementation Plan design. Expectations are to develop sufficient
design to support the I-405 environmental assessment and to confirm the feasibility of the charette
concept over the next three-months.
Concurrence
I am anticipating a project that will set a high standard of cooperation between the City and WSDOT.
By signing below, the City and WSDOT concur with the Cedar River Vicinity Charette Workshop
concept as the "Build Alternative"to be evaluated in the 1-405, 1-5 to SR 169 Implementation Plan
(post Renton Nickel and Transportation Investment Partnership bundled project)Environmental
Assessment.
Sincerely,
r
r ?m4enry, PE
I-405 Project Director
City Qf Renton Concurrence:
2Jv
Kathy Keliker Date
Mayor, City of Renton
cc: Administrators Executive Committee members
City Design Team members
I-405 Project Files
Attachment
I , Corridor Pr• •
Congestion Relief&Bus Rapid Transit Projects
Cedar River
Vicinty Charrette
Solutions for Parks, Wells & Local Access
Mission: To identify a balanced, mutually supported
design concept for the 1-405 improvements in the
study area that responds to the City of Renton's
needs and the requirements of a regional corridor.
�,
7Washington State City of Renton
Department of Transportation July 11 — 14, 2005
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Participants
Charrette Team 1-405 Leadership Team
Dave McNeal Kim Henry
Park Planner(JGM) Chief Engineer
Russ Prior Stacy Trussler
Wells and Aquifer(PGG) 1-5(Tukwila)to 1-90 Project
Leslie Betlach Manager
Parks Director(Renton) Keith McGowan
Lys Hornsby Environmental Manager
Contents Water&Utilities Director(Renton) Steve Quinn
Mike Stenhouse GEC Project Manager
The 1-405 Corridor Program.....................1 Maintenance Service Director Allison Ray
(Renton) Environmental Manager
The Charrette...........................................3 Keith Woolley
Transportation (Renton)
The Challenge Defined.............................5 Andrew Laski 1-405 Staff/Charrette Support
Performance Criteria................................9 Transportation (1-405 Team) Larry Kyle
Marcia Wagoner QA/QC Manager
Evaluation& Refinement........................11 Facilitator(PRR) Colleen Gants
Public Information
The Solutions..........................................16 City of Renton Leadership Karl Westby
Kathy Keolker-Wheeler Traffic Analysis Manager
Mayor Brian Wilkinson
Appendices Terri Briere Public Information
bound separately City Council President Ross Fenton
• Introduction Marcie Palmer Tukwila to Renton Contract
Councilmember Manager
• Agenda Tony Cube
• Charrette kick-off notes Don Persson Councilmember Public Information
• Mid-point notes Jay Covington John Donatelli
• Report out notes Chief Administrative Officer Renton to Bellevue Contract
Manager
• Recommendations memo Dennis Culp Todd Merkens
• Letter of concurrence Community Services Department Administrator Public Information
Alex Pietsch Jim Jordan
Economic Development Renton to Bellevue NEPA Manager
Administrator Scott Guter
Gregg Zimmerman Public Information
Department of Public Works Matt Klontz
Administrator Renton to Bellevue Designer
Amy Olcese
City of Renton Staff Public Information
Sandra Meyer Brian Elrod
Transportation Systems Director CSS Team
Nick Afzali Laura Smith
Transportation Planning and Tukwila to Renton Structures
Programming Manager
Ted Hickey
Fire Department
View of existing 1-405 corridor through fully Ra Sled
developed urban Renton;Renton City Hall y
at left. City of Renton Water Services
Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11— 14, 2005
The 1 =405 Corridor Program
Implementation Plan
The I-405 Implementation Plan for the corridor will ultimately add up to two `
additional lanes in each direction from 1-5 in Tukwila to 1-5 in Lynnwood. It sz7
will include major transit system expansions supported by transit access and
operational capital improvements to 1-405.Among the improvements will be
the implementation of a bus rapid transit(BRT) system, major park-and-ride
SNOHOMISHCOUNW _ _ _
expansions, arterial improvements and an aggressive transportation demand NINGCOUNT - - - - - -
management program. 522
sss
The Implementation Plan will improve 1-405 continuously from 1-5 in Tukwila to
NE IM SL
SR 522 in Bothell.The Implementation Plan's improvements will closely match
the Master Plan from SR 167 in Renton to I-%,which has the lowest capacity and NE 13M St
highest congestion of the corridor.The section from I-5 in Tukwila to Oakesdale / NE 120
and from 1-90 to SR 522 will have one additional lane added each way.The NE„NhSLNE 12am SI_i�—
portion of this section from NE 70th to NE 116th in Kirkland will be constructed
to near Master Plan level. Multi-modal aspects include transit access ramps, W
park-and-ride expansion,BRT line implementation,and other transit service NEMSt
enhancements. NE Tum&
Roadway Improvements
Freeway:+2 lanes NE,�St
Freeway:+1 lanes NE NASI
Arterial Connection/
Transit-HOV Improvements
QSE SIS SI_
HOV Lane Access Point
OSound Transit Funded r
HOV Lane Access Point
W Transit c c—
P"SE
Q� Park-and-Ride Lots
Freeway to Freeway
f HOV Connection
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i 167 4�~
181
SE 180N St.
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Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access
The L405 Corridor Project
Focus on Renton
Threading highway improvements through a developed urban area is always a
challenge,and in Renton that challenge is even greater.The area surrounding the
I-405/SR 169 interchange lies over a sole-source aquifer that provides the City of
Renton's drinking water.Along with wells on both sides of the freeway,Liberty
Park,the city's oldest park, is located on west of the freeway and Cedar River
Park with its new aquatic center abuts I-405 on the east.The Cedar River,with its
recreational trail,crosses beneath the freeway and the Burlington Northern Santa
Fe railroad line that is pinched between Liberty Park and the I-405 travel lanes.
The Renton Hill neighborhood, separated from the city center by I-405 and steep
topography,has important residential and emergency access needs that must
be met. City-owned office space that provides a current resource for business
startups plus properties that offer economic redevelopment opportunities may
also be affected by the transportation facility improvements.
.'94M Liberty Park lip
Cedar River Park ♦' "
Stoneway Property
1-405 with Liberty Park and BNSF railroad
trestle over Cedar River ►
Narco Property
Renton Hill
St a ! A
Charrette study area
2
Cedar River vicinity Charrette:July 11- 14, 2005
The Charrette
Why a Charrette?
WSDOT and the City of Renton have struggled to develop a solution that
meets the transportation needs within the Renton section of the I-405 corridor
while ensuring adequate access to Renton Hill,minimal affects to the city's
aquifer and wells,and protection of the three parks in the project vicinity.
The complexity of this design challenge and the length of time that had been
devoted to trying to find an answer led the I-405 Team and the City of Renton
to consider a different problem-solving method. The multiple responsibilities
and different perspectives of WSDOT and the City of Renton, made it difficult
to identify solutions.Though the process to date had secured some agreements, Mission
project advancement needed a clear direction quickly in order to meet the To identify a balanced, mutually supported
timeframe to secure possible future funding.WSDOT and the City of Renton design concept for the 1-405 improvements
identified a charrette to create an excellent opportunity for success. The in the study area that responds to the City
charrette would gather a team of experts who were familiar with the issue areas of Renton's needs and the requirements of
to focus solely on identifying a balanced solution. By participants bringing a regional corridor.
fresh but informed perspectives,devoting a week of time to understanding
each others program needs, the complex relationships among the parks, wells
and transportation functions, and possible alternatives, the charrette approach Guiding Principles
offered the opportunity to find what had been elusive — a mutually supported
solution and design concept. • Continue to support 1-405 Renton to
Bellevue improvements as a critical
The Cedar River Vicinity Charrette need within the Corridor.
• Commit to working to solve one
The Cedar River Vicinity Charrette began with presentations from elected another's issues.
officials,City of Renton leadership and WSDOT staff and consultants to provide . Jointly work to minimize impacts and
a full picture of the needs and challenges.The charrette team experienced balance benefits for the betterment of
the area first hand with a site visit while raising questions and engaging in the community.
discussions about their observations.The second day began with individual
observations of the prior day,followed by smaller groups working to identify the • Identify a project plan for regional
functional requirements for various elements such as the wells and recreational funding decisions.
facilities.With these requirements in place, the team began work on a master
plan that responded to the functional requirements for the parks,protection of
and other access to the wells facilities, the space for highway widening and
interchange ramps,residential access and the relocated railroad.Work continued
the following morning with added focus on the access requirements to Renton
Hill. By early afternoon,the team had completed concepts for the parks master
plan and Renton Hill access that they felt responded to the challenges identified
in the opening presentations on the first day.A presentation to the I-405 and City
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 3
The Charrette
of Renton leadership confirmed that the charrette team had indeed identified
a promising, balanced direction.With counsel from the Leadership Team's
comments and suggestions,supported by technical work from the I-405 team to
test concepts,the charrette team focused their work on finalizing the proposed
solution and presentation materials.The final presentations,hosted by the City
of Renton,were met with strong support.
Objectives
The 1-405 Team engaged city staff, agency directors,project staff,designers
and local consultants in a design charrette from July 11th to July 14th,2005
to arrive at a solution regarding proposed 1-405 improvements in Renton.The
eight charrette team members were challenged to determine how to lessen or
eliminate any effects to the City of Renton's parks, water and transportation
systems due to the future expansion of 1-405.The four-day design session
provided the opportunity for participants to identify a shared solution that met
the needs of the City of Renton,the planned improvements to 1-405,and the
local and regional communities.
Charrette Stages
Day 1: The Challenge Defined
Leadership and the project team set the stage and defined the scope of the
challenge. Participants examined the issues on the ground at an afternoon site
tour and began to review the complex details and constraints.
Day 2: Performance Criteria
The charrette team worked to identify functional requirements for the wells,
parks,neighborhood access and I-405 and initiated development of a viable
solution set.
Day 3: Evaluation & Refinement
Team members participated in a morning working session and prepared for the
afternoon mid-point presentation of early options with feedback provided by -
City of Renton and WSDOT representatives.
Day 4: The Solutions
The team refined their proposed plans for meeting the charrette's objectives.
They highlighted and supported the reasoning for the best solution for each
issue in the final presentation to the Leadership Team.
4 Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11— 14, 2005
The Challenge Defined
Charrette facilitator,Marcia Wagoner,welcomed participants to the charrette f,
kick-off on July 11,2005. Participants included the charrette team,the mayor
and executive staff from the City of Renton and I-405 project staff and directors.
ZOZ
In their opening remarks, all participants expressed the importance of finding a 00
solution that responded to both the 1-405 project and local needs.
Introduction and Overview -
Charrette team members experience the
study area while receiving background
Stacy Trussler,l-405 Project Manager, noted the substantial and difficult work information from the project team on the
completed to date and reviewed the challenge before the charrette team. Many Renton Avenue access to Renton Hill
resources critical to the community of Renton lie in close proximity to the
planned 1-405 improvements.The SR 169/1-405 interchange lies atop a sole-
source aquifer that provides the majority of the City of Renton's drinking water.
The city's oldest public park, as well as a skate park, various wells,community
center,treatment facilities and a new aquatic park all bound the existing 1-405.
The Cedar River, a critical natural and cultural resource,flows through this area.
Above the river is the Renton Hill neighborhood,where important concerns
regarding access for general purpose and emergency needs must be considered.
In addition,numerous utilities lie in the immediate project vicinity and future
development plans call for converting the nearby Narco property into an active
park and sports facility. Ms.Trussler concluded that the charrette brought many .�.
great minds to the table to address these concerns and discover the best path
forward.
Kim Henry,Chief Engineer for the 1-405 project,added his thoughts regarding
the complex issues the charrette participants faced. In the past,every time a new
solution was evaluated,there was always a difficult trade-off. "Despite these
challenges,I am optimistic this team has all the resources to arrive at the right
solution,"Mr. Henry concluded.
The Challenge "I am confident everyone
Members of the Leadership Team from the City of Renton were invited to will be proud of the results
address the group and offer direction. Renton Mayor Kathy Keolker-Wheeler achieved by the charrette
noted that this project is probably the most important project in the careers of
those sitting around the table. She emphasized the work must be accomplished team."
within the budget,function efficiently and fit well within the community. It is a —Kathy Keolker-Wheeler
complicated matter that warrants a creative approach. Renton Mayor
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 5
The Challenge Defined
i
Jay Covington,Chief Administrative Officer, said effects to places like Renton
Hill must be minimized while improving traffic conditions for the city and the
region. He noted it is critical to city operations to work together to address
� . wells,parks and access.WSDOT and the City of Renton should be particularly
sensitive to impacted neighborhoods.
1-405 bounded by Liberty Park, city wells, Funding Considerations
the BNSF railroad and Cedar River Park
The I-405 Implementation Plan is estimated to cost$4.7 billion,although that cost
may change as the 1-405 Team works with the regional funding group to define a
fundable package.As development of the regional package moves forward,there
is concern about pressure to trim down the scope and costs.To be successful in
"There may not be an easy securing sufficient funding from the regional package,there must be a clear vision
answer that solves all of and a supported plan.If WSDOT and the City of Renton reach agreement on a
plan and act together in support,the opportunity for success in securing regional
the concerns." funding for a complete project is enhanced.
—Kim Henry
Chief Engineer, I-405 Project
Discipline Overviews
The City of Renton executive staff and I-405 project staff provided background
regarding the specific elements under consideration.
Economic Development
Alex Pietsch,Economic Development Administrator for the City of Renton,
expressed the importance of balancing the needs of the I-405 neighbors with
the need to get traffic through town. Key parcels that are important to the City
for economic development are potentially affected by the I-405 improvements.
There are already development plans for the Stoneway site,and the old city hall,
the 200 Mill Building, is a city resource that helps to start up young companies
in the community. It will be important to avoid effects to this facility as much
as possible, including maintaining sufficient parking which is already stretched
at this site.These challenges demand a balanced solution that meets the time
and budget requirements of the project. Mr. Pietsch noted that,"My goal is to
complete the I-405 improvements because of the benefits they will provide to
the community."
Partnering
Gregg Zimmerman,Department of Public Works Administrator for the City
of Renton,highlighted the agreements agencies had already reached regarding
The Cedar River pedestrian crossing
below I-405 the I-405 mainline, the I-405/SR 167 interchange,drainage for John's Creek
and the Springbrook wetland mitigation bank. He noted that even with these
6 Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11- 14, 2005
accomplishments,there were still tough challenges for the charrette team to The Challenge Defined
address:
• A second primary access point to Renton Hill to meet community needs.
• Preserving the wells,achieving access,meeting the geological concerns,and
possibly relocating the corrosion control facility.
• The relocation of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad.
• Effects to parks.
• The flyover ramp from I-405 to SR 169 and the height of the ramp. "We need to work as a
• The location of utilities in Cedar River Park and moving a utilities corridor. team to make sure these
• A plan to obtain regional funding.
Mr. Zimmerman suggested that the only way to evaluate and compromise on improvements will benefit
these issues was to utilize a partnering approach.
the public as much as the
Parks needs of the agencies."
The City of Renton Community Services Department Administrator,Dennis
Culp, said that the team should go beyond mitigating effects to parks and —Terri Briere
investigate opportunities to create a premier park complex. He reported the Renton Council President
city recently received permission from the county for lighted soccer fields at
the Narco property. Developers relay to city staff that the proximity of parks to
neighborhoods is an important selling point and they should regard the parks as
an asset. He added that access to Cedar River Park needs to remain convenient.
At this time the proposed I-405 to SR 169 flyover is eye-level with the slides at
the new aquatic center and could severely affect the quality of the aquatic park
experience.
Environmental Planning Process
Allison Ray,I-405 Environmental Manager, said that the charette will address
important issues that need to be resolved before the environmental process .
begins for the Renton Implementation Plan Environmental Assessment(EA).
The EA is currently scheduled to start in January 2006 with a scoping meeting
for agencies and tribes as well as the public. From an environmental perspective,
a key aspect of the charrette is to record the basis for all the decisions that are The Cedar River at Cedar River Park
made.When the I-405 Team applies for environmental permits,the team will
need to document these design decisions,both those that are the preferred
designs as well as those that were dismissed from further consideration.This
information from the charrette will be instrumental in successfully completing .�
the permitting process.
Cedar River as it passes under the BNSF
railroad and 1-405
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 7
The Challenge Defined
Project Overview and Issues
N Ross Fenton,Tukwila to Renton Contract Manager,addressed the proposed
improvements to I-405 in the study area.Plans include completely rebuilding
the SR 167 interchange south of the study area and adding two lanes to I-405 in
each direction through the study area.These improvements will double the width
1-405 and SR 169 off ramp adjacent to of 1-405,requiring WSDOT to remove the two existin accesses at Renton Hill.
Cedar River Park and city wells g
This widening limits the options for rebuilding the current accesses due to right- ,
of-way and physical constraints that result in excessively steep grades. Proposed
changes to accommodate the freeway widening may also affect parks and other
Z r elements. Additional site considerations include emergency access to Renton
Y m ti Hill. Currently,there are two existing locked south-side hill access points that
are opened when weather and emergency situations require them;but,these are
oO otherwise closed to prevent neighborhood cut-through traffic. Also,south-side
access doesn't provide the required emergency response times.
Liberty
Park o�� Cedar 41`
,r River Park 00%G John Donatelli,Renton to Bellevue Contract Manager,discussed improvements to
I-405 between SR 169 and the Cedar River. He described the domino effect that the
Lys
proposed 1-405 improvements have on issues in the surrounding area.Wells located
A on the east and west sides of the freeway are constraints on the 1-405 alignment.
N The future I-405 mainline alignment forces the relocation of the BNSF railroad
Congestion in the area circled lead the approximately 50 feet west,which in turn,requires the relocation of the Houser
proposal to cul-de-sac Houser Way
Way South bridge over the Cedar River. As the railroad is relocated west,Houser
Way might have to be lowered to maintain the current access point into Cedar River
Park.However,lowering Houser Way impacts required access to wells 1,2,and 3,
which is used by service vehicles on a regular basis.On the east side of 1-405,in the
Cedar River Park,a ramp alignment that avoids the well heads and water treatment
facilities has been identified.However,this alignment limits access to the current
corrosion control treatment facility.
The SR 169 and Sunset Avenue intersection is frequently congested due to
heavy left turn volumes to SR 169, the southbound ramp onto I-405,traffic on
Houser Way and the adjacent railroad crossing. Recent studies from a previous
charrette have recommended turning Houser Way into a cul-de-sac to eliminate
one of three closely spaced intersections.This would improve traffic operations
between Sunset Avenue, SR 169,and Bronson Avenue, which many residents
take to travel through town.
Prior to adjourning the kick-off meeting, the charrette team was directed by the
City of Renton leadership to look at all the options and present the benefits and
Existing pedestrian bridge over the Cedar drawbacks of each alternative for their consideration. s
River with/-405 overhead
8 Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11—14, 2005
Performance Criteria
Pump & Wells Considerations
The charrette team identified the following criteria for consideration prior to
developing solutions for wells.In Cedar River Park,clearances are sufficient for
wells 8 and 9, treatment facilities and the corrosion control facility to function
successfully in their current locations when the new off ramp is constructed.
Modification is also required for well 9.There is logic in keeping them
adjacent to I-405 and the off-ramp rather than using additional park property
to accommodate a new location. In addition,there is concern about getting the
same yield if new wells are drilled.
a
Wells 1,2 and 3 drive many of the site decisions for Liberty Park and they should"
only be relocated as a last resort.Access needs for the trucks,supplies and special
equipment required to maintain function of the wells appears achievable though
it may require reconfiguring the well house structure around the remaining Ross Fenton, Russ Prior and Mike
well heads to compensate for the narrower adjacent roadway due to the I-405
Stenhouse discuss wells concerns
expansion.
Well & Corrosion Control Facility Access Needs
Wells 1, 2 & 3, 8 & 9 Corrosion Control Facility
• Daily maintenance—vans, 1'/2 ton flatbed (20') • Sodium hydroxide—70'tanker,2 to 3 times per month
• Chlorine(semi-monthly)&fluoride(monthly)—2 ton • Boom truck/crane—tank replacement
flatbed (40')
• Drill rig—Well maintenance/redevelopment(40')
• Boom truck/crane—pull pump for replacement
Wells & Utilities Needs
Geohydrology Study Emergency Response/Spill Control Plan
• Background/baseline on well yield,water quality Environmental Coordinator during
• Evaluate reduced recharge Construction
• Evaluate need for additional monitoring wells Design Considerations
Utility Relocation Plan Containment—spills and storm water, roadway and ponds
• Relocate utilities out of 1-405 footprint (curbs,walls, liners)
• Spread footings—avoid aquifer penetration, location, no
• Provide casing for those that can't be relocated(Carco Road footings in river
24-inch?)
• Borings—no mud rotary, properly seal with>_30%solids
• Alternate location for 24-inch main on Houser Bridge bentonite
(Railroad Bridge?)
• Protect 100-foot sanitary control radius
Groundwater Monitoring Plan
9
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access
Performance Criteria
Parks Considerations
Participants determined functional and design considerations for the parks in
the project vicinity.The three park properties should be integrated into a whole.
Current central parking needs to remain in the scheme with added parking at
the Narco property connected by a trail to Cedar River Park. Bronson Avenue
�► at Garden Avenue is the best choice for Liberty Park access if Houser Way is
Charrette team at work closed. Constructing a new access point off of Bronson Avenue at Garden Avenue
requires relocating the impacted ball fields,possibly to the Stoneway property if it
is acquired.
Functional Considerations
v
• Access is required from Liberty Park
on Cedar River Park to the Narco
property.
E y �L 'k &W
• The aquatic center plans to double in °r'� {'
size in the future. 4.ft
8 n•da
• For the Cedar River Trail to pass 0
beneath 1-405 it must meet the
necessary height restrictions for it to m J
pass above the river and below Renton !
Avenue.
• The pedestrian bridge creates conflict
with the community center and prevents
access between the parks.
• The historic community building is = ,'�
sited on current meadow site. '-
• A green belt along the river is desired.-
�.r, •-
• Trail at well house needs to y
accommodate service vehicles.
• Lengthen railroad bridge to open up -- �
visual and pedestrian trail connection
between Liberty Park and Cedar River
wMs,,e,s
w.Pa rk.
• The marketing of high-end mixed uses t' rail
for both Stoneway and South lake * �} _ - e
Washington. f
• Some potential soil contamination �g,,k�r"`� � - �� � ,•r-,�
concerns at Stoneway site. *a A, {
t--Rr'K Cr_ l Ovn
N
Sketch focusing on pedestrian routes through Liberty
and Cedar River parks and along the Cedar River
1
10
Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11- 14, 2005
Evaluation & Refinement
Key Elements of the Parks Proposal
At the mid-point presentation,the charrette team presented their initial
design concept for the Leadership Team's consideration and feedback. More
information regarding evaluated elements is included in the appendix.
Parks Proposal Highlights
• Evaluate Liberty Park, Cedar River Park and the proposed park facilities on the
Narco property collectively.
• Consider relocating the Liberty Park ball fields and creating a large playfield in the
center of the park.
• Move the skate park next to the new teen center to address the loss of"drive-by"
supervision previously provided from Houser Way.
• Relocate the Liberty Park baseball stadium to allow space for the proposed relocated
park entrance at Garden Avenue and eliminate the need for Houser Way access.
• Remove Houser Way to allow for additional parking for the former city hall and space
for an access road or trail.
• Relocate the existing pedestrian bridge beneath 1-405 to create a continuous route
for the Cedar River Trail.
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Sketch of possible parks layout and pedestrian routes
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 11
Evaluation&Refinement
• Provide service vehicle access to the community center in Cedar River Park through
the existing parking lot.
• Convert the open space between the aquatic center and 1-405 northbound exit ramp
into an activity meadow.
• Realign the merge location of SR 169 to move the flyover ramp further away from the
aquatic center to improve the aesthetics and function of the center.
• Build a new bridge to provide vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian access between Narco
property and Cedar River Park.
Evaluation of the Park Proposal
The following is the charrette team's comparison of their proposed design concept
to existing conditions.
Parks proposal presentation of concepts
Cedar River Park with Stoneway Parcel
and evaluation by Dave McNeal
Plus
• Maintains existing wells • Maintains two access points to park
• Provides access for chemical delivery • Stoneway acquisition allows for
• Adjusts SR 169 flyover ramp potential relocation of ball fields
alignment for improved park and • Improves visual and pedestrian
aquatic center access,function, and connection between Liberty Park and
aesthetics Cedar River Park
• Added flexibility in the locating the • Community center,theater and aquatic
touchdown for the 1-405 to SR 169 center remain
flyover ramp
• Relocated signalized access from
• Improved trail connectivity and SR 169
access to Narco property with a new
• Relocated existing pedestrian bridge
pedestrian and vehicle bridge
• Enhanced aquifer protection/recharge to enhance regional trail between
Cedar River Park and Narco property
with a new site provided at Stoneway
• Increased revenue generation by
combining programmed ball fields Neutral
• Improves greenway along river Modified parking configuration
• Protects sensitive slopes along the
Cedar River
12
Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11— 14, 2005
Evaluation&Refinement
Liberty Park
Plus Neutral
• Increased park area with removal of • One pedestrian bridge underneath
Houser Way railroad bridge
• Improved park access from Bronson • Relocated skate park
Avenue at Garden Avenue • Relocated tennis, basketball, parking
• Improved trail access and connectivity . Maintains connection to library
between Cedar River and Liberty
Parks
• Improved picnic and play area
relationship .
• Potential to increase tennis capacity
• Large active meadow
• Maintains existing wells and access
• New teen center
• Enhanced greenway along river
Narco Property
Plus
• Enhancement along river at former
bridge location(s)
• Improves connection to Renton Hill
• New access between Cedar and
Narco properties
Cedar River Park without Stoneway Parcel (Full 13+ Acres)
Negative
• Lost opportunity for three programmed
ball fields at Stoneway parcel
• Eliminated site for aquifer protection/
recharge
• Shared access with any new
development at Stoneway parcel
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 13
Evaluation&Refinement
Evaluation of Parks Proposal on Wells
The concerns and potential risks of moving the wells outweigh any opportunities
that the charrette team identified. Service access to the wells in Cedar River Park
could be provided under the exit ramp alignment from I-405 northbound to SR 169.
Plus Negative
• Buildings for well 8 remain Major modification of buildings for well
9 and wells 1, 2, 3
Neutral Further encroachment into sanitary
• Access for chemical delivery truck control area
• Access for daily maintenance
• Difficult access to some underground
utilities(water main in Narco Road)
Key Elements of the Access Proposal
PE-6-16n 141
I Several schemes developed by the 1-405 team were explored by the charrette
team for access to Renton Hill. (See the appendix for descriptions of these
Need access schemes) Of those schemes, Option C and Option Q showed the greatest
CSP-nr:x�,y: Opi+on C promise to the charrette team.
GP —GecoKC(arl: G/FX";)
Eme"•Kc.l- FH mart op+lo-Com; Access Options
Option C combines two existing routes b providing a crossing of 1-405 at Renton
-qt- f�eloc2d��t 5}aii,,, 9 Y P 9 9
' ` Avenue with a connection to Main Avenue for primary access.
Wc�nf
Option C requires additional access on the north side of Renton Hill or a new fire
GP- i�iMN� �+on c C gym:) station must be built on the south side.
GP co.uia 7 Op++o� Option Q provides desired connections and fire and emergency access with a
Eller j,-nc j- IPn,,.WJ: c stacked structure.
E-me lto,cI - Se"Ad" c)Fh-0 Option Q minimizes effects on the Narco property.
Renton Hill access considerations
Direction from Leadership Team
• Investigate moving railroad under 1-405
• Continue with plans to remove Houser Bridge
• Develop"no acquisition"option (if Stoneway parcel is not available)
• Relocate Liberty Park baseball stadium
• Keep moving forward and continue the outstanding efforts
14
Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11— 14, 2005
Evaluation&Refinement
44
n
Fft
a Will
i
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s
ft 14 - NO CROSSING
i AT CEDAR AVE
i 3 Development of proposal by charrette team
Plan view of Renton Hill access Option Q1 with Mill Avenue structure shorter than
Q option
NO CROSSING -- -
AT CEDAR AVE. ---- :!'
{I
/ I
Plan view of Renton Hill access Option C with Option Q stacked structure
3
Charrette mid-point presentation to City of
Renton and WSDOT leadership
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 15
The Solutions
T-
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Sketch combining parks, wells and Renton Hill access design as developed by the charrette team
16
Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11- 14, 2005
PeutK f� �
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40-ff ed
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- ter
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1' �sRoPE MAPLE VALLEY HIGHWAY TO COAL CREEK PARKWAY EXH;
RENTON HILL ACCESS AND
CEDAR RIVER PARK ACCESS OPTIONS
EXHIBIT
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 17
The Solutions
Important community resources are located within the vicinity of the planned
Parks Solutions at a Glance I-405 freeway expansion near the Cedar River in Renton.WSDOT and
• Integrate Liberty Park, Cedar River the City of Renton needed to find a solution in order to move forward with
Park and Narco property. improvements to I-405 while addressing any effects to parks, wells and
• Provide primary entrance in Liberty local access,especially Renton Hill access.The charrette team was brought
Park at Garden Avenue and Bronson
Avenue. together to critically examine these impacts and develop a design concept that
• Remove existing Houser Bridge. balances community benefits and project needs.The following are the solutions
• Create a new pedestrian bridge to link developed by the charrette team.
the trail between Cedar River Park and
Narco property.
• Aquire Stoneway property. parks & Wells Solutions
• Remove ball fields and stadium from
Liberty Park and relocate at Stoneway
property. Create strong connections between Liberty Park, Cedar River Park,the
• Expand existing Parks Department undeveloped Narco site and the Cedar River Trail to produce the feel of
building at Liberty Park to allow for a
new teen center. one large park complex.The Cedar River Trail and the parks have existed
• Relocate skate park next to public there for some time as seemingly separate facilities, and the trail appears
street. to disconnect under the railroad where it currently crosses the Cedar River.
• Keep theater, community center, Redeveloping the parks and the trail will allow the city to integrate them more
aquatic center and existing parking at
Cedar River Park. effectively.The Narco property is a hidden treasure that will become a great
• Convert multi-use field at Cedar River resource to the City of Renton.The design concept assumed development of the
Park into a general purpose meadow Narco site with sports fields and acquisition of the Stoneway property.
to allow for future expansion of the
aquatic center.
• Move the 1-405 and SR 169 flyover Close off Houser Way south of the Cedar River and provide a signal and
ramp to the median to provide pedestrian crossing at Garden Avenue and Bronson Avenue to create
separation from water slides at the
aquatic park. a new access point to Liberty Park. Offering access at this point would
• Open up existing berm under require removal of the old oak trees in that location,but given the long-term
the railroad to provide visual and benefits of improved park access, it is more important to provide a primary
pedestrian connection between Liberty
and Cedar River parks. park entrance. Relocating the park entrance impairs the existing stadium ball
park,but creates an opportunity to develop Liberty Park with recreational
features more in alignment with adjacent neighborhoods. Since Houser Way is
eliminated,the Houser Bridge is no longer required and is removed in this plan.
In addition,the railroad bridge is relocated to the abandoned Houser Way.With
the reconstruction of the railroad bridge,there is an opportunity to remove the
barrier created by the existing railroad bridge, increase the length of the bridge
and eliminate the berm. By removing the railroad berm and replacing it with a
bridge structure,the more open trail could be created between the two parks.
A new pedestrian bridge connecting the Cedar River Trail and parks will
replace the pedestrian bridge that currently crosses the Cedar River
beneath 1-405. Relocating the bridge also provides an opportunity to keep the
Cedar River Trail as continuous as possible. For trail users to be directed around
the community center event lawn,which functionally requires separation from
pedestrian traffic, the trail is realigned to direct pedestrians around the event
8 Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11— 14, 2005
The Solutions
center and into Cedar River Park or the Cedar River Trail on the opposite bank.
In Liberty Park,the trail would be realigned to separate the picnic and play area
from the trail traffic. The main pedestrian through traffic will cross the bridge to
the Narco site and continue the Cedar River Trail. Cedar River Park users can
continue to the park facilities.
As a way of providing a second park access point, construct a new
vehicular bridge with sidewalks to Narco to link access to Renton Hill
and Narco property.The former ball fields at Liberty Park will be converted
into a meadow and the tennis courts relocated to the former stadium location.
The decision to relocate active field sports out of this park appears to produce
the most beneficial use of opportunities at Liberty Park when considered in
combination with the adjacent park resources.The facilities moved from Liberty
Park could be replaced by converting part of the Stoneway site into ball fields.
If the Stoneway property is not acquired,then it could mean losing the ball field
from this site.
With the closure of Houser Way south of the Cedar River,the skate park location
becomes somewhat isolated from view.Therefore,the skate park facility is moved
closer to an area that can be monitored more effectively.The new location is
adjacent to Bronson Avenue next to the proposed future teen center in Liberty
Park.In addition,if Houser Way were is turned into a cul-de-sac,the existing
area south of the river where Houser Street is located could be incorporated into
additional parking which the city desires for the old city hall building.
In Cedar River Park,the design concept retains the existing theater,community
center and aquatic center.To provide for a possible expansion of the aquatic
center,the baseball field and soccer meadow between the aquatic park and
I-405 exit ramp are converted into a general purpose meadow.The parking
lot at the site remains in its current formation and provides service access to
the community center.A100-foot wide greenway is proposed along the river.
Elimination of the entrance to Cedar River Park from Houser Way requires
a new access, therefore a new vehicle and pedestrian bridge from the Narco
property across the Cedar River is constructed to replace the lost access.
A key advantage of acquiring the Stoneway property is added flexibility in
locating the touchdown for the I-405 to SR 169 flyover ramp. It is less safe
if the end of the flyover ramp occurs at a signalized entrance to the park
and SR 169 intersection, so the ramp is proposed to touchdown beyond the
intersection. Next to the proposed flyover is a water slide and pool.The ramp as
planned would be about the height of the slide.Different ideas were evaluated
to minimize effects to the park expericence. One option resulted in implications
from moving the entire structure into the hillside. Instead,the preferred option
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 19
The Solutions
Wells Solutions at a Glance would move the ramp out of the immediate proximity of the aquatic center,
• All existing well heads are maintained. as far as 50 feet to the north of its originally proposed location, and into the
• Add gated service route along BNSF middle of the future roadway alignment. By moving the taller element of the
right of way to provide access to wells flyover further back from the slide it creates a buffer to reduce visual and noise
1, 2and 3.
• Provide service route under proposed distractions.
exit ramp from northbound 1-405 to
SR 169. In Cedar River Park, service vehicles could approach the well house(s) via
• Utilize park paths as emergency a gated service path proposed along the east side of the I-405 right of way.
access routes.
• Route trucks with chemicals to enter Adjustments to the well house for well 9 are needed to provide overhead access
facilities from SR 169(limited access for pulling pumps. Service vehicles exiting the wells facility and treatment
driveway)and exit empty through facility would go under the proposed I-405 northbound exit ramp alignment
Cedar River Park.
• Make structural major modifications to at SR 169.Trucks could off-load chemicals and then exit through the park via
the building for wells 1, 2, 3 and 9. the parking lot and access road,which also provides service and emergency
, .
►N►mvr r
Opm
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IwaRMXaI \\Q� _��qqQQ��sjM tP+�+P `n'
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Sketch of parks layout
20 Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11— 14, 2005
The Solutions
vehicles access to the back of the community center. If needed, hardened paths
throughout the park could serve as emergency access routes including access to
the drinking water fluoridation facility.
In Liberty Park, an access path next to the realigned railroad could provide
access to wells 1, 2 and 3 for large maintenance trucks. Major modifications of
the well house for wells 1,2 and 3 will be required to provide service access
as a result of the narrower adjacent roadway due to the I-405 expansion. It will
be necessary to maintain or replace the two water lines that are currently on the
Houser Way Bridge.
To-
EXI6TING1 PROPpSP,L scrsnH 1.mu.b w�vr iww��c�rmlc
OPTION•1
4-='
oPrlay•2
Sketch of Cedar River aquatic park and southbound 1-405 to
southbound SR 169 ramp options
PI
Alternative park access if Stoneway property is not acquired
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 21
The Solutions
Renton Hill Access Solutions
In order to provide two access points to Renton Hill,Option Q(Cedar to Narco
property) and Option C (Renton Avenue to Main Avenue) are proposed solutions.
Option Q utilizes the existing Mill Avenue right-of-way and provides access from
a lowered Mill Avenue on Renton Hill down along the southeast side of I-405 into
the Narco property, under I-405 to the existing Narco property access road, then
to the existing intersection with Houser Way and Mill Avenue.An"upper"3rd
Access Solutions at a Glance Street—commonly referred to as Mill Avenue—is constructed over the"lower"
• Preferred solution is Option Q in Mill Avenue to provide access to Renton Hill homes located off of Mill Avenue
combination with Option C. and to maintain local Renton Hill circulation between Renton Avenue and Cedar
• Option Q utilizes space under the PP
Avenue on the north side of the hill. Between"upper"and "lower"Mill Avenues,
existing Mill Avenue.
• Mill Avenue descends at the 4th Street a 14-foot vertical clearance is required to allow emergency response vehicles.
and Mill Avenue interchange and ends At the 4th Street and Mill Avenue intersection, Option Q utilizes space under
at the Narco property. the existing Mill Avenue.The new homes that front Mill Avenue would continue
• to their nts homes on frlom the`Upper"Mill l Avenue have ss to have access from"upper"Mill Avenue with"lower"Mill Avenue beneath it
Avenue. providing access to the park and the connection under 1-405.The stacked structure
• "Lower'Mill Avenue provides access is open on the side facing I-405.
to the park and to the existing Mill
Avenue and Houser Way intersection
with the connection under 1-405. Option Q has minor effects on the Narco property and provides long-desired
vehicle access between Renton Hill and the city's three riverside parks. During
construction, four homes on Renton Hill fronting Mill Avenue will have
temporary restricted access. Option Q requires utility relocation. Estimated
construction costs are comparable with other options that were developed.
Pedestrians will be provided with a trail on"upper"Mill Avenue to the Narco
property and Cedar River Trail since there are no pedestrian facilities on "lower"
Mill Avenue. Overall,this option has minor effects to residential areas and
l "Upper"Mill Avenue
u
I
1
-..... ,
"Lower"Mill Avenue
Perspective of Renton Hill access Option C with Option Q structure Computer-generated model of access solution as developed by
sketched in black the charrette team
22
Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11—14, 2005
The Solutions
i
56 405
Y1 1
Y '
Existing access to Renton Hill Existing typical section at proposed
Renton Hill access
may' m
t r yy
a
a�
{ I
t� �
i
Mot At
Photo-simulation showing access solution as developed by the charrette team
Solutions for Parks, Wells&Local Access 23
The Solutions
businesses,does not accomodate cut-through traffic, and will meet required
emergency response times.
{r Leadership Team Response
The Leadership Team was impressed with the results of the group's efforts and
--. believed the charrette team solved many difficult issues,while improving future
conditions for residents and parks. In particular,those attending the presentation
Final presentation were pleased that the design concept included siting the SR 169 flyover ramp
at the center median,providing two access points to Renton Hill, meeting
the needs for improvements to I-405,reprogramming the parks complex and
"The charrette team has maintaining access to wells 1, 2 and 3.
done a wonderful job As a next step,the charrette team will brief the Renton council, mayor and
residents with the results of the charrette.
and displayed a lot of
ingenuity."
—Don Persson
Renton City Councilmember
"After the number of years
we have battled these
issues, the final concept
looks amazing and there
are so many positives."
—Marc! Palmer
Renton City Councilmember
24 Cedar River Vicinity Charrette:July 11- 14, 2005
Appendices
bound separately
• Introduction
• Agenda
• Charrette kick-off notes
• Mid-point notes
• Report out notes
• Recommendations memo
• Letter of concurrence