HomeMy WebLinkAboutRenton Plan Annex - 2020 (RES4413)
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 1
City of Renton Plan Annex
Introduction
Brief History
Originally an important fishing area for Native Americans, Renton
experienced a migration of people of European descent in the
1850s, leading to the displacement of the Duwamish people. As the
influx of settlers continued, the early Renton economy developed
around coal, timber and clay production from the surrounding hills.
In 1911 a major flood provided the impetus for diverting the
channel of the Cedar River to prevent future flooding in the city.
The building of the Renton Boeing plant during World War II
brought thousands to Renton for jobs. Renton is also home to
several other major corporations and important regional
government facilities.
Climate
The climate of Renton is moderate, with mild winters, averaging
154 precipitation days per year, and warm, dry summers. Annual
temperatures range from 37 to 78 degrees, rarely going below 28
degrees or above 87 degrees. Annual rainfall is 38 inches. Monthly
precipitation varies from 6 inches November through January to
less than an inch in July and August. Average annual snowfall is 12
inches. Humidity varies between 44 percent and 95 percent in
summer and winter, respectively. Winds are variable and prevail
from the south/southeast at an average speed of 7 miles per hour,
seldom exceeding 22 miles per hour.
Development Trends
Renton has a mix of land uses throughout the City. Industrial and
commercial uses are located primarily in the Green River valley and
downtown areas of Renton. The city center area includes mixed-use
residential and commercial land, with both single and multi-family
homes. Single family residences dominate the eastern and southeastern
portions of the City, where most residential growth is still occurring.
In addition, there are pockets of mixed-use commercial centers aimed
at providing services for residents along the eastern edges of the City.
The Comprehensive Plan provides a vision for Renton’s development
20 years into the future. The vision includes an emphasis on infill
development occurring in existing neighborhoods rather than sprawl
and an increase in multi-family housing in the downtown area. This
infill has increased the number of residents living in the 500 year flood
plain of the Cedar River.
Renton’s language diversity continues to increase, which creates
additional challenges in communicating risk to the population.
City of Renton Profile
Date of Incorporation:
9/6/1901
Governance: Optional
municipal code city governed
by a Mayor/Council form of
government
Population as of 4/1/2019:
104,700
Area: 24 square miles
Location and Description:
Western Washington State,
Central Puget Sound, south
King County
Jurisdiction Point of Contact:
Name: Deborah Needham
Title: Emergency Management
Director
Entity: City of Renton
Phone: 425-430-7725
Email: dneedham@rentonwa.gov
Plan Prepared By:
Name: Deborah Needham
Title: Emergency Management
Director
Entity: City of Renton
Phone: 425-430-7725
Email: dneedham@rentonwa.gov
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 2
City of Renton Risk Summary
Hazard Risk and Vulnerability Summary
HAZARD RISK SUMMARY VULNERABILITY SUMMARY IMPACT SUMMARY
Avalanche n/a n/a n/a
Dam
Failure
There are two major
dams on the Green
River and Cedar River
respectively, and
numerous levees along
both rivers. A failure
of either a dam or a
levee would cause
severe flooding not
seen since the two
dams were built. A
dam failure with a full-
pool scenario will
likely be much more
severe than a typical
flooding scenario.
Renton is near or at the end of the
drainage basin for the Green River
and the Cedar River. As a relatively
low-lying area, it becomes the
collector for floodwaters along those
rivers. The Green River Valley is a
thriving commercial and industrial
area. The area around the Cedar
River is primarily developed as
residential. There are schools and
several senior residential
communities in the floodplain.
There is great potential for loss of
life for those not able to evacuate
ahead of the flood waters.
In the Green River Valley
hundreds of millions dollars of
real property would be
destroyed in in Renton,
primarily businesses, causing
them to permanently close
their doors, with a loss of
revenue for the city. A Chester
Morse Dam failure on the
Cedar River would destroy
hundreds of millions dollars of
mostly residential property,
leaving many homeless.
Earthquake The city is subject to a
major earthquake
generated by the
Seattle Fault to the
north, and the
Cascadia Subduction
Zone offshore to the
west, which is capable
of generating an
earthquake in the 8.0-
9.0 range. Additional
minor faults may
generate smaller
earthquakes, and faults
further away can still
cause damage.
Much of the historic downtown area
is comprised of unreinforced
masonry (URM) buildings that are
vulnerable to collapse and present a
life safety hazard. Most of Renton’s
commercial development, including
the historic downtown, is built on
soils with high liquefaction risk.
Many homes were built before
seismic code was changed
acknowledge the seismic risk of the
area, which will lead to extensive
damage of many structures.
The city was damaged in 1965
from the 6.7 Puget Sound
quake, with severe damage to
the Boeing plant. In 2001 the
city was again damaged by the
6.8 Nisqually quake, primarily
cracked masonry and
collapsed chimneys, but with
no deaths in Renton. More
structures and residents are at
risk today because of
multifamily infill development
in the liquefaction zone.
Flood Much of Renton’s
commercial and
institutional
development is
located within the
floodplain of either
the Green River or
Cedar River, and a
considerable amount
of residential
development within
the Cedar River
floodplain. 6.35% of
the total land area of
the city is within the
Renton is near or at the end of the
drainage basin for the Green River
and the Cedar River. As a relatively
low-lying area, it becomes the
collector for floodwaters along those
rivers. The Green River Valley is a
thriving commercial and industrial
area. The annual risk of a
catastrophic flood in that area is
1:140. The area around the Cedar
River is primarily developed as
residential. There are schools and
several senior residential
communities in the 100 year
floodplain, as well as the city’s
In the last two decades, the
city has experienced repeated
moderate flood events causing
nearly $22 million in damages
and response costs. As climate
change and development has
changed the floodplain, more
structures are thought to be at
risk to a similar event today.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 3
Special Flood Hazard
Area. The city has
good floodplain
management
regulations and has
limited development;
however, there are
many structures
already present in the
floodplain.
largest employer. The historic
downtown area is located within the
500 year flood plain.
Landslide/
Sinkholes/
Ground
subsidence
Areas of steep slopes
and high erosion
hazard can be found
throughout the city.
As a former coal-
mining town, many
abandoned coal mines
criss-cross the
underground
landscape. There is a
high water table and
some of the city’s soil
types are known to be
prone to landslide or
subsidence.
Some landslide prone areas had
already been developed prior to
institution of stricter regulations.
The Maple Valley Highway has
experienced repetitive landslide
issues that have forced its closure at
times. Smaller landslides occur more
regularly in other areas of the city.
Sinkholes in roadways and pipeline
right-of-ways have occurred within
the past five years compromising
public safety.
Climate change predictions
include shifting rainfall
patterns to include greater
bursts in short periods,
increasing the landslide risk
over time. As soils continue to
settle, there will likely be an
increase in the frequency of
sinkhole formation and coal
mine collapse, which can be
related.
Severe
Weather
Tornados are rare in
this region, but the
city is prone to
damaging high winds
during seasonal
storms. Trees
frequently fall during
such storms. Some
neighborhoods are
built entirely within
large stands of tall
trees. Lightning
storms create
additional risk of fire.
High summer
temperatures cause
health problems for
those without air-
conditioning, and
drought is a potential
consequence.
The majority of power lines in
Renton are overhead rather than
underground. Wind damage often
results in power outages and road
closures due to falling trees. Due to
the usually mild summers, many
homes in Renton do not have air-
conditioning, increasing health risks
for vulnerable individuals. Many also
do not have basements in which to
take refuge from a rare tornado
event.
Over time, the increasing
average annual temperature
will create additional health
risks due to extreme heat, and
generate an increase in
thunderstorm activity with
lightning/wildfire risk and
localized high winds, including
tornado potential. The risk of
drought could impact the
city’s water supply which is
98% dependent upon
groundwater sources (wells
and springs). Seattle Public
Utilities provides
approximately 2% of the city’s
water supply. The City’s
Water Utility supplies water
to73% of the total city area.
The remaining 27% of the
area within the City is served
by adjacent water districts
(Soos Creek Water and Sewer
District, Water District #90
and others).
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 4
Severe
Winter
Weather
The local Renton
climate produces a
significant snowfall or
ice event every few
years. Freezing
temperatures are not
uncommon for several
days in the winter,
although prolonged
hard freezes in the
20’s or below are rare.
The majority of power lines in
Renton are overhead rather than
underground. Snow and ice damage
often results in power outages and
blocked roads from fallen trees.
Hazardous driving conditions cause
accidents. Businesses suffer
economic losses. People can be
housebound for days, compromising
the ability to get food,
pharmaceuticals, and medical care.
Freezing temperatures can result in
broken pipes to residents and
businesses, which interrupts
sprinkler fire protection systems for
some buildings. In a significant snow
or ice event, roof collapse can
become a risk. For the homeless
populations, life safety is at stake if
they cannot take shelter during cold
weather.
Severe winter weather will
continue to recur, causing
transportation disruption,
personal injury, economic
injury, and property damage.
Tsunami n/a n/a n/a
Volcano Although the city is
outside of a direct
lahar flow from any
volcano, secondary
flooding on the Green
River could be the
result of a Mt. Rainier
eruption. Rainier, and
potentially other area
volcanoes, depending
on wind direction, can
generate ashfall that
significantly impacts
the City of Renton.
Ashfall causes premature wear and
failure of automobile engines and
electronics. It disrupts air travel,
shorts out electricity on power lines
causing widespread power outages,
clogs gutters and causes property
damage, accumulates on flat roofs
creating roof collapse risk, creates
slippery road surfaces resulting in
traffic accidents, and triggers
significant health issues in vulnerable
individuals.
The risk of an ashfall event
from the nearest volcano, Mt.
Rainier, remains constant over
time. The power outages,
damage to homes and
businesses, compromised
automobiles and electronics,
and health risks to some
residents would have a
significant impact on the city.
Wildfire Power lines, railroad
cars, structure fires,
lightning, and human
behavior can start fires
anywhere. Parts of the
City of Renton are
heavily treed or
covered in brush, and
some are in the
Wildland/Urban
Interface putting
residents and
businesses there even
more at risk.
Some areas of Renton have poor
evacuation options and limited
access for fire apparatus. A wind-
driven structure fire like the Regency
Woods apartment fire of 2004 can
rapidly engulf neighboring homes,
trapping residents in areas without
sufficient road capacity to handle an
evacuation, and threatening critical
electrical infrastructure.
As climate change generates
higher average temperatures
annually and increased
drought risk, the fire danger
for Western Washington is
increasing. Climatologist
predict that eventually
Western Washington fire risk
will equal that of Eastern
Washington.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 5
Hazard and Asset Overview Maps
Figure 1: Composite hazard map of Renton.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 6
Figure 2: Earthquake liquefaction susceptibility.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 7
Figure 3: Flood hazard areas in the mapped floodplains.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 8
Figure 4: Known landslide hazard areas.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 9
Figure 5: Known coal mine hazard areas.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 10
Plan Update Process
To convene the planning team, the city expanded the existing Emergency Management Group’s membership,
which has representation from each department and the Renton Regional Fire Authority. The invitation included
neighboring water utilities and additional stakeholders and subject matter experts who could contribute to the
plan.
The planning process began with some staff attending the King County Hazard Mitigation Plan kickoff meeting
and workshops. The planning team met twice in joint work sessions to review assets and infrastructure, to
determine threats and assess risk, and to identify mitigation solutions to reduce those risks. Planning team
members then worked outside of the group session to develop the mitigation strategies that are included in this
plan revision.
Jurisdiction Planning Team
NAME TITLE ORGANIZATION CONTRIBUTION
Deborah
Needham
Emergency
Management Director
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Jillian Edge Emergency
Management
Coordinator
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Amy Shaffer Court Services
Supervisor
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Al Findlay Building Plan Reviewer City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Dave Neubert Communications
Manager
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Krista Kolaz Risk Management
Analyst
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Mehdi Sadri IT Director City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Jennifer Henning Planning Director City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Katie Nolan Civil Engineer III City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Ron Straka Utility Systems Director City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Jason Anderson Assistant Airport
Manager
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Harry Barrett Airport Manager City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Will Adams Civil Engineer II City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Robert Homan Battalion Chief Renton Regional
Fire Authority
Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Eric Cutshall Transportation
Maintenance Manager
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Cailin Hunsaker Parks & Trails Director City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Alex Tuttle Assistant City Attorney City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Tim Moore GIS Manager City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 11
Vangie Garcia Transportation Planning
Manager
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Maryjane Van
Cleave
Recreation &
Neighborhoods
Director
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
George Stahl Water Maintenance
Manager
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Patrick Zellner Street Maintenance
Manager
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Richard Marshall Surface Water/Waste
Water Manager
City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Tim Moore GIS Manager City of Renton Mapping support for strategy
discussion
Kelsey Ternes Risk Manager City of Renton Strategy discussions, worksheets,
share information, plan review
Gary Del Rosario GIS Analyst II City of Renton Map production for open house and
plan
Dan Gravelle Water/Sewer
Technician
Coal Creek Utility
District
Participate in strategy discussions
Steve Moye Water/Sewer
Technician
Coal Creek Utility
District
Participate in strategy discussions
Darcy Peterson General Manager King County Water
District 90
Participate in strategy discussions
Plan Update Timeline
PLANNING ACTIVITY DATE SUMMARY ATTENDEES
Hazard Mitigation
Risk Assessments
12/13/2018 Joint development of
risk assessments
Renton and neighbors/partners: Auburn,
Bellevue, Coal Creek Utility District, Kent,
KC Water District 90, King County,
Newcastle, Puget Sound Fire, Renton School
District, Soos Creek Water and Sewer
District, Tukwila, Valley Medical Center, and
others in the region
Hazard Mitigation
Annex Kickoff
4/17/2019 Orientation to
planning process and
partner expectations
Renton and neighbors/partners: King
County, Skyway Water and Sewer, and others
in the region
Hazard Mitigation
Planning Support
Meeting
6/10/2019 Guidance on plan
development,
organization, and
narratives
Renton and neighbors/partners: Auburn,
Bellevue, King County, Skyway Water and
Sewer, and others in the region
Hazard Mitigation
Strategy Workshop
7/25/2019 Guidance on
development of
strategy worksheets
Renton and neighbors/partners: Auburn,
Bellevue, Coal Creek Utility District, FEMA,
KC Water District 90, King County, Puget
Sound Fire, Renton School District, Tukwila,
WA Dept. of Ecology, WA Dept. of Natural
Resources, WA State Emergency
Management, and others in the region
City of Renton
Hazard Mitigation
Planning Group
Workshop
8/1/2019 Risk assessment,
hazard identification
and introduction of
strategy worksheets
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Planning
Group
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 12
City of Renton
Hazard Mitigation
Planning Group
Meeting
9/5/2019 Strategy worksheet
development and
prioritization
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Planning
Group
Breakout sessions of
City of Renton
Hazard Mitigation
Planning Group as
needed
9/6/2019-
9/27/2019
Reference and
integrate with other
plans, data collection
related to floodplain
administration
questions, review and
updates to past
mitigation strategies
Select City of Renton Hazard Mitigation
Planning Group members
City of Renton
Hazard Mitigation
Planning Group
Meeting
10/3/2019 Review compiled
draft plan, prioritize
citywide projects,
identify gaps
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Planning
Group
Public Outreach
Public Outreach Events
EVENT DATE SUMMARY ATTENDEES
Announcement at
televised City Council
meeting for public
education campaign
8/19/2019 EM Director made a televised
speech before Council that
focused the annual Ready in
Renton campaign on mitigation
measures for the public and
announced the date of the
Hazard Mitigation Plan Open
house and the coming direct
mailer to every household in
Renton.
All City Council members, the
Mayor, approximately 20
anonymous/non-registered
public attendees at the
Council meeting, an unknown
number of members of the
Channel 21 television
audience, and 34 web site
visitors to the Council video
archive.
Special web page and
online survey
published
8/29/2019 Published a new informational
web page on mitigation and the
mitigation plan revision.
Published a survey to gather
resident/business input for the
plan revision. Solicited input
from the public on hazard
mitigation.
154 anonymous web page
visitors and 16 survey
completions between 8/29/19
and 9/29/2019.
Direct mailer to every
address in Renton
and/or inclusion in the
electronic utility bill
mailer
8/30/2019 Published an article about
mitigation and the upcoming
plan revision within Renton City
News and direct-mailed or
emailed to every utility customer
in Renton, directing people to
the new web page and survey.
Approximately 28,400 paper
or email newsletters mailed
out to Renton residents and
business.
Social media posts
about hazard
mitigation plan update
and open house
9/5/2019
Published an announcement and
invitation for input to the plan
revision on Facebook and
Twitter.
Received 7,075 post
impressions and interactions
combined.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 13
Information table and
activity at Multicultural
Festival
9/14/2019 Staffed a table at a public event
and solicited
An estimated 1500 members
of the public attended the
festival. Participants who
interacted at the information
table indicated which hazards
concerned them most by a dot
voting exercise.
Email announcement
of open house and
hazard mitigation plan
update
9/17/2019 Emailed Open House and
Hazard Mitigation Plan
announcement with the Byte of
Renton newsletter
Sent to 20,940 subscribers.
Hazard Mitigation
Plan Open House
9/19/2019 Held a two hour open house for
the public with subject matter
experts, maps, and draft plan
materials for comment and
review.
6 Renton residents and 3
nonresidents (including staff)
attended the open house.
Participants indicated which
hazards concerned them most
by a dot voting exercise.
Web page updated
with information and
draft plan ready for
submittal to King
County
11/5/2019 Continued solicitation of
comments and feedback from
the public via email.
No web hits data available at
time of draft plan submission.
Public Priorities for Hazard Mitigation
Information collected from public input meetings, open houses, and online comments indicate that the top two
hazards of greatest concern to residents of Renton are earthquakes and landslides/sinkholes/ground subsidence.
High public awareness of earthquake risk can be attributed to regional education efforts and the 2001 Nisqually
earthquake which highlighted the region’s earthquake risk. The SR530 mudslide, often called the Oso landslide, in
2014, followed by several recent minor landslides and sinkholes in Renton, has likely added to local concerns
about those geologic risks.
The detailed ranking of concern compiled from the online survey and public input meetings is as follows:
1) earthquake
2) landslides, sinkholes, and ground subsidence
3) severe storms (including high winds)
4) winter storms
5) floods
6) wildfires
7) volcano
8) dam failure
9) other hazards not mentioned in this plan
Other hazards of concern mentioned by members of the public include transportation emergencies (plane, truck,
or train crashes), explosions and hazardous materials releases (including gas line ruptures), and long term power
outages. Although this revision of the Hazard Mitigation Plan focuses exclusively on natural hazards, future
revisions will address technological or human-caused hazards such as these. Other issues outside of the scope of
this plan (crime, traffic problems) were brought up in the public comments, but are outside of the scope of a
Hazard Mitigation Plan and have been referred to the Police Department to address.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 14
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Program
Hazard mitigation strategies were developed
through a two-step process. The City of Renton
met with an internal planning team, an
expansion of the existing Emergency
Management Group that meets monthly in the
city, to identify a comprehensive range of
mitigation strategies. These strategies were then
prioritized using a process established at the
county level and documented in the base plan.
Each department or agency that has submitted a
strategy plan will continue to work towards
progress on that strategy. This includes advocacy
for budget allocations, workload assignments,
and grant applications that support
accomplishment of those strategies.
Plan Monitoring, Implementation, and
Future Updates
King County leads the mitigation plan
monitoring and update process and schedules
the annual plan check-ins and bi-annual
mitigation strategy updates. Updates on
mitigation projects are solicited by the county
for inclusion in the countywide annual report.
As a participant in the 2020 update to the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, the City of Renton agrees to convene
their internal planning team at least annually to review their progress on hazard mitigation strategies and to update
the plan based on new data or recent disasters. This will be a breakout session of members of the city’s Emergency
Management Group that will convene in July, August and/or September to conduct this review.
When King County Emergency Management sends federal notices of funding opportunity for the Hazard
Mitigation Assistance Grant Program, the city will evaluate the viability of projects eligible for such grants, and will
submit grant applications if appropriate to align with the priorities of the Hazard Mitigation Plan. This will be a
key strategy to implement the plan.
The next plan update is expected to be due in April 2025. The City of Renton will submit a letter of intent by
2023, at least two years prior to plan expiration. The county will lead the next regional planning effort, beginning
at least 18 months before the expiration of the 2020 plan.
Continued Public Participation
The City of Renton already maintains substantial public outreach capabilities, focusing on personal preparedness
and education. Information on ongoing progress in implementing the hazard mitigation plan will be integrated
into public outreach efforts. This will provide Renton residents, already engaged in personal preparedness efforts,
with context and the opportunity to provide feedback on the county’s progress and priorities in large-scale
mitigation. In the vertical integration of risk-reduction activities from personal to local to state and federal, it is
important that the public understand how its activities support, and are supported by, larger-scale efforts.
King County Overall Plan Goals
1.Access to Affordable, Healthy Food
2.Access to Health and Human
Services
3.Access to Parks and Natural
Resources
4.Access to Safe and Efficient
Transportation
5.Affordable, Safe, Quality Housing
6.Community and Public Safety
7.Early Childhood Development
8.Economic Development
9.Equitable Law and Justice System
10.Equity in Government Practices
11.Family Wage Jobs and Job Training
12.Healthy Built and Natural
Environments
13.Quality Education
14.Strong, Vibrant Neighborhoods
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 15
The outreach and mitigation teams will also continue to work with media and other agency partners to publicize
mitigation success stories and help explain how vulnerabilities are being fixed. When possible, public tours of
mitigation projects will be organized to allow community members to see successful mitigation in action.
Plan Integration
Integrating the Hazard Mitigation Plan with existing planning processes and programs results in greater impact by
ensuring consistency with jurisdiction priorities and leveraging opportunities for multi-benefit initiatives. This
integration will be achieved by: 1) Sharing information about planning processes across departments, particularly
those that prioritize and invest in infrastructure. This is accomplished monthly in the Emergency Management
Group meeting, and through relationships established in other planning processes. 2) Referencing the plan when
reviewing development proposals or zoning changes. 3) Referencing the plan when considering capital facilities
improvements.4) Referencing the plan when revising Building or Fire Codes.
Over the past five years, the Hazard Mitigation Plan has been successfully integrated with many existing plans,
processes and programs. The city’s Planning Director is involved in both the writing and review of the Hazard
Mitigation Plan and coordinating development and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and Critical Areas
Ordinance. Through our State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review, the evaluation of hazards is a key step
when considering relevant development proposals or zoning changes. The plan is also referenced in the periodic
revision of the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan. It forms the basis for the planning assumptions that
underpin the response and recovery aspects of that plan. Prioritized mitigation projects are considered for
inclusion in the Capital Facilities plan whenever it is updated. Where relevant (although not in the past five years)
the Hazard Mitigation Plan also informs Building Code and Fire Code revisions, particularly pertaining to
earthquake and flood risks.
Hazard Mitigation Authorities, Responsibilities, and Capabilities
Plans
PLAN TITLE RESPONSIBLE AGENCY POINT OF CONTACT RELATIONSHIP TO HAZARD
MITIGATION PLAN
Comprehensive
Plan
City of Renton Community
and Economic
Development Department
Community &
Economic
Development
Administrator
Planning Director
Includes policies applicable to
sensitive areas and principles for
future development
Comprehensive
Emergency
Management
Plan
City of Renton Office of
Emergency Management
Emergency
Management Director
Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plans currently
include mitigation approaches
with roles/ responsibilities of
city departments and
community partners
Capital Facilities
Plan
City of Renton Community
Services Department
Administrative Services
Department
Public Works Department
Community Services
Administrator
Administrative
Services Administrator
Public Works
Administrator
Identifies critical facilities and
major improvement or
construction projects that need
to consider
hazards/vulnerabilities, and
appropriate mitigation measures
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 16
Programs, Policies, and Processes
PROGRAM/POLICY RESPONSIBLE AGENCY POINT OF CONTACT RELATIONSHIP TO
HAZARD MITIGATION
PLAN
Building Codes City of Renton Community
and Economic
Development Department
City of Renton Building
Official
Building code
development depends on
the same understanding
of hazards
Emergency
Management
Program
City of Renton Executive
Department/Emergency
Management Division
Emergency Management
Director
Tracking of disaster
impacts, new or changing
hazards, public
engagement around
mitigation.
Critical Areas
Ordinance
Community and Economic
Development
Community & Economic
Development Administrator
Planning Director
Regulates development in
sensitive areas
Fire Code Renton Regional Fire
Authority
Fire Marshall Fire code development
depends on the same
understanding of hazards
Entities Responsible for Hazard Mitigation
AGENCY/ORGANIZATION POINT OF CONTACT RESPONSIBILITY(S)
Community and
Economic Development
Department
Community and
Economic Development
Administrator
Planning Director
Policy and planning input to decrease community
vulnerability over time, and react to emergencies.
Community Services
Department
Community Services
Administrator
Mitigating damage to city facilities and natural
resources
Executive Department,
Emergency
Management Division
Emergency Management
Director
Public education and engagement, planning process
oversight
Public Works Public Works
Administrator
Critical infrastructure mitigation (roads, bridges,
utilities, etc.), flood plain management, hazard
emergency response and recovery.
Renton Regional Fire
Authority
Fire Chief Wildfire mitigation, public education and engagement,
fire code development and enforcement
National Flood Insurance Program
The City of Renton is a member and actively participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, which makes
flood insurance available to Renton property owners. The City oversees compliance with the National Flood
Insurance Program requirements for new construction and provides information to property owners in Special
Flood Hazard Areas regarding flood insurance requirements.
National Flood Insurance Program Compliance
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 17
What department is responsible for floodplain
management in your community?
Shared responsibility and partnership between the
Community and Economic Development
Department and the Public Works Department.
Who is your community’s floodplain
administrator? (title/position)
Community and Economic Development
Department Administrator
What is the date of adoption of your flood
damage prevention ordinance?
May 8, 1981 (Ordinance 3537), last update on July 5,
2015 Ord. 5757.
When was the most recent Community
Assistance Visit or Community Assistance
Contact?
June 17, 2019, Matt Gerlach, Regional NFIP
Coordinator and Dave Radabaugh, Washington State
Department of Ecology Shorelands and
Environmental Assistance Program
Does your community have any outstanding
NFIP compliance violations that need to be
addressed? If so, please state what they are?
No outstanding NFIP compliance violations.
Do your flood hazard maps adequately address
the flood risk within your community? If so,
please state why.
Once the new King County DFIRM following the
letter of final determination from FEMA, the flood
hazard maps will adequately address flood risks in
Renton except for in the portion of the Green River
floodplain in Renton. The Green River floodplain is
identified as a seclusion area in the DFIRM that still
utilizes the old FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps
until and an updated Flood Insurance Study and map
is completed.
Does your floodplain management staff need any
assistance or training to support its floodplain
management program? If so, what type of
training/assistance is needed?
Yes, overview of NFIP current requirements for new
and existing employees. Training on the information
needed and how to complete the updated Building
Elevation Certificate and training needed for
becoming a certified floodplain manager.
Does your community participate in the
Community Rating System (CRS)? If so, what is
your CRS Classification and are you seeing to
improve your rating? If not, is your community
interested in joining CRS?
Yes. CRS Classification 5. The City of Renton is
seeking to maintain this rating and possibly improve
our rating as part of the next CRS verification review.
How many Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) and
Repetitive Loss (RL) properties are located in
your jurisdiction?
SRL: 0
RL: 0
Has your community ever conducted an elevation
or buy out of a flood-prone property? If so, what
fund source did you use? If not, are you
interested in pursuing buyouts of flood prone
properties?
n/a
Hazard Mitigation Strategies
The city has made notable progress in mitigation projects over the past five years. Major accomplishments
include completion of a major dredging project on the Cedar River to prevent flooding, funding of and
participation in the 2015-2016 LiDAR study to better identify landslide-prone areas, securing of funding for
the design, permitting and construction of improvements to the levees and floodwalls needed for certification,
obtaining a grant to reduce flood hazards associated with Madsen Creek, and seismic retrofitting and
repainting of three downtown area bridges funded by three separate grants.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 18
In the reformatting of this plan, several strategies have been reevaluated, and some have been deprecated.
Others have been converted into the new format of strategies. Those changes have been indicated in the table s
below.
2015 Hazard Mitigation Strategy Status
STRATEGY DESCRIPTION PRIORITY STATUS
RN #1 Maintain good standing
under NFIP
Medium Maintained. Dropping as a specific strategy as compliance
is institutionalized, and embedded in multiple new flood-
related strategies
RN#2 Pursue funding for
mitigation
High Have applied for multiple mitigation grants. Dropping and
rolling into new strategy combined with RN#3,
converting to “Funding/Partnership Mitigation Strategy”
RN#3 Public/private
partnerships
Low Dropping and rolling into new strategy combined with
RN #2, “Funding Partnership Strategies”, also incorporate
into “Water System Risk Assessment”
RN#4 Detailed inventories of
seismically at-risk
buildings/infrastructure
Low Dropping as a specific strategy. Data exists but no staff
assigned to compile it further for buildings. Infrastructure
component has been converted to “Water System Risk
Assessment”
RN#5 Integrate with planning
and regulatory
documents
Medium Has been institutionalized as a standard practice.
Dropping as a specific strategy.
RN#6 Enforce Critical Area
and Shoreline Master
Program regulations
Medium Has been institutionalized as a standard practice.
Dropping as a specific strategy.
RN#7 Dredging, maintenance
of floodwalls and
levees
High Converting to “Cedar River Gravel Removal Project”,
“Cedar River Section 205 Flood Hazard Reduction Project
– Operation and Maintenance”, and “Cedar River Section
205 Levee Certification Project”
RN#8 Surface Water Utility
programs for flood
hazard management
High Converting to “Cedar River Gravel Removal Project”,
“Cedar River Section 205 Flood Hazard Reduction Project
– Operation and Maintenance”, and “Cedar River Section
205 Levee Certification Project”
RN#9 Member of FEMA
Community Rating
System, seeking to
improve
Medium Increased to CRS Classification 5. Dropping this formal
strategy, as maintaining this classification and seeking to
improve it is institutionalized.
RN#10 Re-evaluate future land
use in floodplain
Medium Dropping, as this is now standard practice
RN#11 Underground power
for new developments
Medium Dropping, as this is now required in code
RN#12 Seismic evaluation and
prioritization of city
owned buildings/
infrastructure
Medium Specific strategies will be developed to replace this.
Currently focusing on new strategy, “Airport Earthquake
and Seismic Mitigation”
RN#13 FEMA information
distribution on seismic
retrofit
Low Dropping, as this information is always available to
customers
RN#14 Funding for seismic
retrofit
High Converting to current focus, “Airport Earthquake and
Seismic Mitigation”
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 19
RN#15 Support county-wide
mitigation initiatives
Medium Converting/rolling together with #16 into “Regional
Planning Mitigation Strategy”
RN#16 Plan maintenance Medium Converting/rolling together with #15 into “Regional
Planning Mitigation Strategy”
The following strategies emerged as the best mitigation focus for the City of Renton over the next five years,
with some projects, such as the Cedar River Gravel Removal Project, in a monitoring status to determine
longer range mitigation needs 10 years out or more.
2020 Hazard Mitigation Strategies
STRATEGY LEAD AGENCY/POC TIMELINE PRIORITY
Airport Earthquake and
Seismic Mitigation
Renton Public Works/Airport
Manager
2020-2022 High
Cedar River Section 205 Flood
Hazard Reduction Project –
Operation and Maintenance
Renton Public Works/ Surface Water
Engineering Manager
Ongoing Medium
Cedar River Gravel Removal
Project
Renton Public Works/ Surface Water
Engineering Manager
2031-2037 Medium
Cedar River Section 205 Levee
Certification Project
Renton Public Works/ Surface Water
Engineering Manager
2025 Medium
Coal Mine Study Mitigation
Strategy
Renton Community and Economic
Development/Planning Director and
Building Plan Reviewer
2020 Low
Funding/Partnership
Mitigation Strategy
Renton Emergency
Management/Emergency
Management Director
2022 Low
Lower Cedar River Flood Risk
Reduction Feasibility Study
Renton Public Works/ Surface Water
Engineering Manager
2025 Medium
Maintenance Facility Standby
Emergency Power
Community Services Department
Facilities Director
2025 High
Regional Planning Mitigation
Strategy
Renton Emergency
Management/Emergency
Management Director
2025 Medium
Utility Pumping Facilities
Back-Up Power
Renton Public Works/ Maintenance
Services Director and Utility Systems
Director
2022 High
Volcanic Ash & Wildfire
Smoke Mitigation Strategy
Renton Emergency
Management/Emergency
Management Director
2021 Low
Water System Risk
Assessment
Renton Public Works/ Water Utility
Engineering Manager and Water
Maintenance Manager
2022-2025 Medium
Water Utility Seismic
Resilience
Renton Public Works/ Water Utility
Engineering Manager and Water
Maintenance Manager
2022-2025 High
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 20
Future Hazard Mitigation Plan Revisions
The City of Renton participated in a King County Tree Canopy Assessment at the end of 2018. The City of
Renton is analyzing this data for areas that fall within the City of Renton’s boundaries. This data will be
incorporated into a Wildfire Fuels Map that will be included in the next major revision of the plan. It will help
identify those areas within the city most at risk from a Wildland/Urban Interface wildfire.
Information is being gathered for non-natural hazards that were not included in the 2019-2020 revision of this
plan. Future revisions of this plan will address cybersecurity threats to infrastructure as well as hazardous materials
release or explosion threats from several sources.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 21
Airport Earthquake and Seismic Mitigation
Lead POC
Jason Anderson,
Asst. Airport
Manager
Harry Barrett
Airport Manager
William Adams
Airport Engineer
Partner Points of Contact
FAA
FEMA
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Earthquake;
Landslide/Sinkhole
Safe operation of Air Traffic
Control Tower and Seaplane Base
(Critical Infrastructure)
Uninterrupted Transportation of
goods/supplies
Economic Development
Goals: 4, 6, 8
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$1.8M Retrofit cost
$650,000 City Cost
FEMA Grants
FAA AIP, CIP,
Small Airports
Program
Strategy Vision/Objective
Mitigate the seismic impact of the Air Traffic Control Tower in future events and repair current damage from the past
1994 event(s). The Tower in not currently rated for either Collapse Prevention, Life Safety or Immediate Occupancy
in case of a seismic event. Generally, an Immediate Occupancy performance level is assigned to a building that is
deemed an essential facility and is required to be functional shortly after the design-level earthquake. The 2012
International Building Code (IBC) classifies aviation control towers and air traffic control centers as essential facilities.
Mitigation Strategy
The Renton Municipal Airport’s Air Traffic Control Tower, built in the 1960’s, does not meet current structural code.
Recent engineering studies have identified the following deficiencies; excessive horizontal drift ratios, inadequate beam
connections to the weak axes of columns, inadequate panel zone shear capacities, lack of beam bottom flange bracing,
impacts of site liquefaction, lack of connection between the timber piles and the concrete pile caps to resist uplift
forces due to an earthquake, which is of particular concern for a building with the height-to-base width aspect ratio of
a control tower. To remedy the tower to an ASCE 41-13, Retrofit Standard BSE-2E, Tier III, Risk III, “Limited
Safety Structural Performance, Non-Structural Performance not considered” (Life Safety) rating, an exoskeleton and
bracing will be fitted. As per the last official notice Wiley Post Seaplane Base is considered a strategic asset according
to the Puget Sound Transportations Recovery Annex. Recent survey has identified the Seaplane Ramp is settling and
developed significant cracking due to a developed void underneath, the Airport needs to rebuild/reinforce ramp.
Multiple Conduits and water mains are routed under the runway. Reinforcing this infrastructure to resist seismic
activity would prevent loss of air traffic control communication capabilities and hydraulic mining under the runway
surface.
2-Year Objectives
Apply for funding through
FEMA (PDM)
Complete retrofit of Tower
Mitigation Project
Apply for FAA Funding, Master
Plan
5-Year Objectives
Evaluate remaining life and determine
appropriateness of complete replacement.
Conduct siting study for new tower
Relocate/fix Seaplane Base
Reinforce communication conduit
Long-Term Objectives
Maintain Air Traffic
Control Tower to a
Critical Infrastructure
Standard, Non-Structural
to be considered
Implementation Plan/Actions
Combine FEMA grants (PDM) and Airport funds to the Airport Tower Mitigation Project
Plan for future siting and building of new tower
Performance Measures
Successfully eliminate the structural seismic concern at the airport by retrofitting and/or building a new
facility
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 22
Cedar River Section 205 Flood Hazard Reduction Project – Operation and
Maintenance
Lead POC
City of
Renton
Surface
Water
Engineering
Manager
Partner Points
of Contact
King County
Flood Alerts
Renton
Municipal
Airport
Boeing
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Dam Failure, Flood
Reduce the risk of levee failure
Maintain federal sponsorship of the
Cedar River Section 205 Levees
and eligibility for flood response
assistance under PL84-99
Maintaining the level of protection
of the Cedar River Section 205
Levees to, at minimum, the 100-
year flow
Goals: 4, 6, 8
Funding Sources / Estimated Costs
$ Cost is dependent on specific
maintenance needs
Surface Water Capital
Improvement Program
Surface Water Maintenance Fund
Federal disaster funding through
the Army Corps of Engineers
King County Flood Control
District
Strategy Vision/Objective
Following the construction of the Section 205 Levees along the Cedar from Williams Ave N to Lake Washington, in
cooperation with the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), obligations for operation and maintenance were
transferred to the City of Renton in accordance with the Operation and Maintenance Manual (O&MM). Additionally,
the USACE conducts routine annual and 5-year periodic inspections of the Levees in order to determine maintenance
needs and rate their acceptability and eligibility for flood response assistance. The objective of this program is to
operate and maintain the levees in accordance with the O&MM and maintain a minimally acceptable rating following
each USACE levee inspection.
Mitigation Strategy
Maintain close cooperation with the USACE and Boeing
Adhere to the inspections, flood stage procedures, bridge operation, closure operation, and maintenance
requirements of the OM&M
Secure funding for routine repair projects
2-Year Objectives
Same as long-
term objectives
5-Year Objectives
Same as long-
term objectives
Long-Term Objectives
Prevent levee failure due to lack of maintenance or improper
operation.
Maintain eligibility for federal flood response assistance
Implementation Plan/Actions
Monitor flows on the Cedar River during major regional storm events
Initiate levee repair or vegetation management projects in a timely manner following the determination of a
deficiency
Conduct levee inspections with the USACE and as required by the O&MM
Performance Measures
Obtain a minimally acceptable rating from the USACE on an annual basis
Operate and maintain the Section 205 Levees in accordance with the O&MM
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 23
Cedar River Gravel Removal Project
Lead POC
City of Renton
Surface Water
Engineering
Manager
Partner Points of Contact
King County Flood
Control Zone District
Renton Municipal
Airport
Boeing
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Flood
Reducing the risk of flooding
during the 100-year flow along
Section 205 of the Cedar River
Maintaining the level of protection
of the Cedar River Section 205
Levees to, at minimum, the 100-
year flow
Goals: 4, 6, 8
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$ 10.5 Million
Surface Water Capital
Improvement Program
King County Flood
Control Zone District
Capital Improvement
Program
Strategy Vision/Objective
Section 205 of the Cedar River requires periodic maintenance dredging due to continuous sediment accumulation
which gradually reduces the conveyance capacity of the river, and level of flood protection offered by the Section 205
levees from Williams Ave S to Lake Washington. The objective of this project is to periodically (every 12-18 years)
dredge the Cedar River bed to reduce the risk of flooding and protect adjacent properties.
Mitigation Strategy
The City of Renton monitors sediment accumulation on a yearly basis by performing cross section surveys along the
lower 2 miles of the river. When the river bed reaches or significantly approaches the “warning elevation”, defined as
1.5 ft below the “maximum bed elevation”, the City initiates the design and permitting efforts of a maintenance
dredging project. The “maximum bed elevation” is the river bed elevation above which the levees in Section 205 can
no longer provide 2 feet of freeboard during the 100-year flood. Typically, a maintenance dredging project also
includes bank stabilization and outfall repairs needed to maintain the structural stability of the levees.
2-Year Objectives
Keep monitoring
sediment accumulation
Establish funding
requirements for the
next Gravel Removal
project
5-Year Objectives
Keep monitoring sediment accumulation
Secure funding for the design, permitting,
construction and mitigation requirements of the
next Gravel Removal Project
If required, initiate the design of the next Gravel
Removal Project
Long-Term Objectives
Successfully dredge the
Cedar River and maintain
the flood protection
capacity of the Section
205 levees
Implementation Plan/Actions
Annual survey of sediment accumulation
Maintenance dredging of the Cedar River every 12-18 years
Performance Measures
Successful project execution is achieved when the Cedar River gets dredged before reaching the “maximum
bed elevation”, in compliance with all permitting and mitigation requirements.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 24
Cedar River Section 205 Levee Certification Project
Lead POC
City of Renton
Surface Water
Engineering
Manager
Partner Points of
Contact
USACE – Seattle
District
King County Flood
Control Zone
District
The Boeing Co.
Renton Municipal
Airport
FEMA
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Dam failure, Flood
Increasing the level of flood
protection during the 100-year flow
Achieving levee accreditation in
accordance with FEMA guidelines
and maintaining Zone X
classification
Protecting Renton Municipal
Airport and Boeing from being
subjected to floodplain development
regulations and flood insurance
requirements
Goals: 4, 6, 8
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$ 5,000,000
Surface Water
Capital
Improvement
Program
King County Flood
Control Zone
District Capital
Improvement
Program
Strategy Vision/Objective
The Cedar River Section 205 Levees are currently provisionally accredited levees, with final accreditation contingent
upon design and construction of levee improvements that were determined to be needed in order meet current FEMA
accreditation standards, and provide sufficient freeboard during the 100-year flood. If left uncertified, the levees
would not be mapped by FEMA and adjacent properties would be regulated as if they were in the floodplain.
Mitigation Strategy
Several sections of the levees and floodwalls need improvements in order to provide sufficient freeboard or increase
structural stability. The City of Renton is permitting, designing and constructing these improvements.
2-Year Objectives
Permit and design levee
improvements
Submit a new CLOMR to FEMA
showing final design drawings
and demonstrating Endangered
Species Act Compliance
5-Year Objectives
Construct levee
improvements
Submit a LOMR to FEMA
with the final project report
and record drawing and
obtain accreditation.
Long-Term Objectives
Maintain levee accreditation with
FEMA
Initiate a re-accreditation project
once the certification issued by the
consultant expires.
Implementation Plan/Actions
Using a phased approach (Assessment, permitting, design, construction, final accreditation)
Coordinating with the USACE on Section 408 review and other agencies on required permits
Using an effective project management approach and closely monitor schedule closely
Performance Measures
Several milestones during the design of the levee improvements will serve as performance checkpoints.
Successful accreditation relies on adequate project management and control, clear communication and
collaboration with the permitting agencies, and successful construction of the improvements.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 25
Coal Mine Study Mitigation Strategy
Lead POC
Planning Director
Building Plan Reviewer
Partner Points of Contact
US Office of Surface Mines
Olympic Pipeline
Bonneville Power
Administration
Seattle City Light
Puget Sound Energy
Seattle Public Utilities
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Earthquakes;
Landslides/Sinkholes
Goals: 6
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$100k
FEMA
Match of $25k in
staffing by City
of Renton
Strategy Vision/Objective
Update and verify historic maps of coal mine features including mine shafts and coal mine seams and overlay these
with vulnerable infrastructure including regional fuel pipelines, electrical transmission corridors, regional water
pipelines, sensitive receptors (schools, hospitals, etc.), and roadway to assist in identifying potential hazards. Identify
methods to stabilize areas where critical infrastructure is at risk from subsidence.
Mitigation Strategy
Identify potential conflicts between historic coalmine features and critical infrastructure and sensitive
receptors.
Identify mitigation measures to stabilize areas with high risk for subsidence.
Avoid developing new critical infrastructure and/or sensitive receptors in areas with identified subsidence risk
from historic coal mining activities.
2-Year Objectives
Fund study to verify location and
depth of abandoned and closed
historic coalmine features, and
identify where these features may
threaten critical infrastructure.
Identify mitigation to stabilize
known areas of conflict
5-Year Objectives
Short term project will be complete in
two years
Long-Term Objectives
Short term project will be
complete in two years
Implementation Plan/Actions
Fund study in 2020 to verify locations and depths of abandoned and closed historic coalmines and coal
mining features; overlay with critical infrastructure and develop mitigation to prevent subsidence and threat to
critical infrastructure and vulnerable sensitive receptors.
Convene stakeholder meetings in late 2020 to share study findings and develop joint strategies to develop
mitigation measures.
Performance Measures
Successfully identify potential hazards to determine current hazard risk and strategies to avoid impacts of
subsidence on critical infrastructure such as pipelines and roads, and vulnerable sensitive receptors such as
schools and hospitals.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 26
Funding/Partnership Mitigation Strategy
Lead POC
Emergency
Management Director
Partner Points of
Contact
Washington State
Military Dept. EM
Division
FEMA
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: All
Goals: 4, 6, 8, 12
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$0
Staff time
City share TBD
Strategy Vision/Objective
Leverage community partnerships (public and private) and grant funding opportunities to address mitigation priorities
within the city.
Mitigation Strategy
Reach out to community partners to determine shared concerns and priorities around hazard mitigation.
Negotiate cost-share agreements for shared projects, or allocate matching funds from city budget to meet
grant requirements.
2-Year Objectives
Identify new partners for
mitigation projects where
appropriate
Submit grant applications when
opportunities arise
5-Year Objectives
Complete one project with partner
participation and/or grant funding
Long-Term Objectives
Continue to cultivate a
community culture that
participates in investment
in mitigation
Implementation Plan/Actions
Update Greater Renton COAD membership contact information to renew relationships and make new
connections
Introduce mitigation concepts in meetings with external stakeholders
Maintain grant documentation files and tracking system for applications
Performance Measures
Submit one grant application every two years
Complete one project with partner participation and/or grant funding
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 27
Lower Cedar River Flood Risk Reduction Feasibility Study
Lead POC
City of Renton
Surface Water
Engineering
Manager
Partner Points of
Contact
King County Flood
Control Zone
District
King County
Renton Municipal
Airport
Boeing
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Flood
Additional flood risk
reduction beyond the 100-
year flood
Identifying future flood
improvement projects along
the lower 2 miles of the
Cedar River
Goals: 4, 6, 8
Funding Sources / Estimated
Costs
$ 500,000
Surface Water Capital
Improvement Program
King County Flood Control
Zone District Capital
Improvement Program
Strategy Vision/Objective
Identify the most feasible level of flood protection along the lower 2 miles of the Cedar River and specific
improvement projects to implement in order to reach that level of protection.
Mitigation Strategy
The Lower Cedar River traverses through a major commercial, industrial, recreational and residential area in the City
of Renton, vital to the local economy. Section 205, from Williams Ave N to Lake Washington is protected from the
100-year flood by levees. However, overtopping could occur at locations upstream of this reach and result in minor
localized flooding of roadways. This study would explore measures to prevent such localized flooding. Also, during
floods larger than the 200-year flood event, extensive overtopping of the left and right banks upstream of Logan Ave
could occur. This study would explore measures to reduce the flooding risks during such extreme events and the
feasibility of achieving such a level of protection.
2-Year Objectives
Identify desired level of flood
protection requirement
Identify required flood
improvement projects
5-Year Objectives
Plan and identify funding needs
for proposed improvement
projects
Design and implement smaller
flood improvement projects
Long-Term Objectives
Design and implement larger
flood improvement projects
Improve overall flood protection
along lower Cedar River
Implementation Plan/Actions
Seek grants from the King County Flood Control District, FEMA, or Floodplains by Design to fund the
design and construction projects identified for improvement.
o Build on existing partnerships with environmental and community organizations to ensure that design
meets the needs of all stakeholders.
o Assess design to ensure that it meets estimated increased flows due to climate change.
Construction of flood risk reduction improvements.
Performance Measures
Successfully identify projects to reduce the risk of flooding, improve resiliency to climate change and extreme
weather events, protect private property, and preserve key economic assets.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 28
Maintenance Facility Standby Emergency Power
Lead POC
Community Services
Department Facilities
Director
Partner Points of
Contact
Public Works
Department
Maintenance Services
Director and Utility
Systems Director
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Dam failure; Earthquake;
Flood; Landslide; Severe Weather;
Severe Winter Weather; Volcano;
Wildfire
Ensure full operation of facility
during power outages to allow
response to hazards.
Goals:4, 6, 8
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$500,000
City
FEMA HMGP
Strategy Vision/Objective
Provide back-up emergency power generation at the City of Renton Maintenance Facility to allow for full operation of
the facility, which is the City’s Emergency Command center for responding to any significant hazard that results in an
emergency. The facility is used by the Street Maintenance, Surface Water Utility Maintenance, Wastewater
Maintenance, Fleet Services and Water Utility Maintenance Section. All City Departments rely on the Facility for
fueling and maintenance/repair of City vehicles. All Public Works equipment that may be needed during an
emergency is stored at the facility and City maintenance personnel are dispatched from the facility when responding to
hazards. The SCADA system controls for the Water Utility operation of the City’s water supply wells, reservoirs,
pump stations and treatment facilities is located at the facility along with the SCADA system for Wastewater Utility
and Surface Water Utility lift stations and pump stations.
Mitigation Strategy
The Maintenance Facility currently only has back-up power generation that allow for partial operation, which impacts
the City’s ability to respond to hazards that result in power outages. The increased back-up power generation will
provide full power to the facility for hazard emergency response without an limitation due to only partial power at the
City of Renton Maintenance Shop Facility.
2-Year Objectives
Secure funding for design
Hire consultant for design
Start design and permitting
5-Year Objectives
Secure funding for construction
Complete final design, construction plans,
specifications and permitting
Complete construction
Long-Term Objectives
Maintain City operations
at the Facility during
power outages caused any
hazard event for response
to the event.
Implementation Plan/Actions
Secure funding from possible funding sources, complete consultant selection process for design and execute
design contract.
Complete design and permitting and secure funding for construction.
Advertise for bids and award construction contract and complete construction.
Implement maintenance of the back-up power generator and test periodically.
Performance Measures
Back-up power generation is installed at the City of Renton Maintenance Facility to allow full operation at the
facility during a hazard that results in a power outage.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 29
Regional Planning Mitigation Strategy
Lead POC
Emergency
Management Director
Partner Points of
Contact
King County Office
of Emergency
Management
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: All
Goals: 4, 6, 8, 12
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$ 0
Staff time
Strategy Vision/Objective
As a partner in the development of the King County Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, the city will actively engage in
contributing to the county-wide initiatives that require stakeholder participation and support. This includes
participating in the plan maintenance strategy identified in the plan.
Mitigation Strategy
Identify opportunities to support county-wide initiatives identified in the overall King County Regional Hazard
Mitigation Plan.
Actively participate in the plan maintenance strategy identified in the plan.
2-Year Objectives
Produce an annual review and
progress report
5-Year Objectives
Produce a completely revised plan
Long-Term Objectives
Maintain a current and
relevant Renton Annex to
the King County
Regional Hazard
Mitigation Plan
Implementation Plan/Actions
Continue to conduct an annual plan review, to include a review of county-wide initiatives.
Identify opportunities for Renton to contribute to county-wide initiatives, and participate accordingly.
Conduct a comprehensive plan revision in 5 years.
Performance Measures
Annual review is completed and progress support submitted to King County.
5 year plan revision is completed and submitted to King County.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 30
Utility Pumping Facilities Back-Up Power
Lead POC
Utility Systems Director
Public Works
Maintenance Services
Director
Partner Points of
Contact
DOH
DOE
Renton RFA
King County
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Earthquake; Flood; Severe
Weather; Severe Winter Weather
Goals: 6, 8
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$ 7M (water)
$ 1M (wastewater)
$ 1M (surface water)
Capital
Improvement
Programs
Strategy Vision/Objective
Improve reliability at utility pumping facilities with on-site standby power systems. These projects could prevent
downtime of critical facilities in order to maintain public health and safety.
Mitigation Strategy
Critical pumping facilities for the city include 11 domestic water booster pump stations, 20 wastewater lift stations,
and 2 stormwater pump stations. Not all of these facilities currently have back-up power. During power outages,
pumping facilities that lack back-up power 1) risk disruption to water and wastewater services; 2) reduce flood control
capabilities at stormwater pump stations; and 3) cause additional strain/wear to on-line pumping facilities, which
consequently decreases the equipment’s life expectancy. The City will evaluate emergency standby power options,
including installing on-site generators and increasing fuel storage, to lessen the impact of future power outages at
utility pumping facilities.
2-Year Objectives
Construction of back-up power
improvement projects in
pre-design phase
Identify additional back-up
power improvement projects
5-Year Objectives
Plan and identify funding needs for
proposed improvement projects
Design and implement priority back-up
power improvement projects
Long-Term Objectives
Design and implement
remaining back-up power
improvement projects
Improve overall reliability
at critical pumping
facilities
Implementation Plan/Actions
Complete construction of back-up power improvements at four wastewater lift stations.
Complete final design and construction of back-up power improvements at two domestic water booster pump
stations that are currently in the 30 percent pre-design phase.
Allocate capital funding to design and implement additional back-up power improvement projects.
Performance Measures
Solutions maintain the continuity of operations, protect property, protect the environment, and protect key
economic assets.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 31
Volcanic Ash & Wildfire Smoke Mitigation Strategy
Lead POC
Renton Emergency
Management
Coordinator
Partner Points of
Contact
King County Public
Health
Puget Sound Clean
Air Agency
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Volcano; Wildfire
Goals: 6, 12
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
None
Strategy Vision/Objective
Our objective is to inform and prepare our community for the impacts of both volcanic ash deposits and wildfire-
caused ash. Since the likelihood of volcanic eruption is low, and the wildfire ash impacts are sporadic, our strategy will
rely on public communication and outreach. We shall conduct an annual public awareness campaign in conjunction
with wildfire impact awareness to ensure residents have an understanding of the hazards affecting the city, actions
they can take, and what we as the local jurisdiction can provide. Our objective is to inform and prepare our
community for the impacts of both volcanic ash deposits and wildfire-caused ash. Since the likelihood of volcanic
eruption is low, and the wildfire ash impacts are sporadic, our strategy will rely on public communication and
outreach. We shall conduct an annual public awareness campaign in conjunction with wildfire impact awareness to
ensure residents have an understanding of the hazards affecting the city, actions they can take, and what we as the
local jurisdiction can provide.
Mitigation Strategy
May 18th, the anniversary of Mt. St. Helen’s eruption, will serve as an annual ash and wildfire smoke awareness
campaign launch. It will include social media and public communications regarding education on the risk to Renton
residents; appropriate actions if the hazard occurs; and ways to lessen the impact of poor air quality on human health,
as well as transportation and general visibility. Target audiences include: Building owners & businesses - connecting
them with air filtration providers as requested; Individuals - personal preparedness measures (staying indoors, use of
appropriate masks); vehicle mitigation efforts (covering cars, avoid driving in limited visibility, dangers to vehicle
filtration systems); methods of securing your home from air quality and ash impacts
2-Year Objectives
Community awareness of
impacts of volcanic or wildfire
caused ash hazards.
5-Year Objectives
Normalize ash hazards and impacts as part
of wider air quality warnings, with public
safety actions known by the community
Long-Term Objectives
A well-prepared community with
baseline awareness of possible hazards
and protective actions they can take
Implementation Plan/Actions
Design survey alongside partners to understand current levels of awareness
Design social media and public outreach campaign, including messaging and strategy
Implement plan during late spring – summer months.
Conduct survey at the end of summer to better understand community’s awareness of local hazards and their
impacts, including ash impacts.
Performance Measures
Increase in awareness and engagement with post-campaign surveys of community.
Increase in engagement with outreach efforts (for example, with online media campaign, in-person outreach)
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 32
Water System Risk Assessment
Lead POC
Water Utility
Engineering Manager
Water Maintenance
Manager
Partner Points of
Contact
Renton RFA
EPA
LEPC
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: All
Goals: 6, 8
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$ 100,000
Water Capital
Improvement
Program
Strategy Vision/Objective
Develop a risk and resilience assessment that identifies the most significant malevolent acts and natural hazards to the
water utility’s critical assets, reduces vulnerabilities of these critical assets, prepares for the threats that could occur,
and mitigates the potential consequences of incidents that do occur.
Mitigation Strategy
The City of Renton is a community water system that provides supply, treatment, storage, and distribution of
dependable and safe water. The Water Utility is required under the 2018 America's Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA)
to assess the risks to, and resilience of, its water system. The risk assessment will 1) inventory at-risk water
infrastructure that contribute to critical functionality of the water system; 2) evaluate the risk and known
vulnerabilities to significant threats and hazards; and 3) implement prevention, protection, and mitigation activities for
identified threats and hazards. The Water Utility will develop partnerships with local emergency response and
planning groups to foster hazard mitigation activities.
2-Year Objectives
Develop risk assessment
Develop policy changes to
mitigate the risks to the critical
drinking water infrastructure
5-Year Objectives
Assess the effectiveness of efforts to
secure and strengthen the resilience of
critical drinking water infrastructure
Update risk assessment
Long-Term Objectives
Increase drinking water
infrastructure resilience
to malevolent acts and
natural hazards
Update risk assessment
every 5 years per AWIA
regulations
Implementation Plan/Actions
Develop the water system risk assessment.
Use as a prioritized plan for security upgrades, modifications of operational procedures, and policy changes to
mitigate risks.
Performance Measures
Identifies potential improvements that serve multiple purposes to enhance operations and resilience of the
drinking water system.
City of Renton Hazard Mitigation Plan Page 33
Water Utility Seismic Resilience
Lead POC
Water Utility
Engineering Manager
Water Maintenance
Manager
Partner Points of
Contact
PNSN/USGS
Renton RFA
DOH
Hazards Mitigated / Goals
Addressed
Hazards: Earthquake
Goals: 6, 8
Funding Sources /
Estimated Costs
$100,000 ShakeAlert
$1.8M Retrofit
PDM & Water
capital budget
Strategy Vision/Objective
Reduce potential damage/losses to critical water facilities from an earthquake by 1) integration of an early warning
system; 2) installation of seismic shut-off valves on water storage facilities; and 3) development of post-earthquake
isolation and control actions. These projects could improve the survivability of the municipal water supply system,
reduce loss following an earthquake, and potentially save lives.
Mitigation Strategy
Critical water facilities for the city include 9 production wells, 1 spring, 11 booster pump stations, and 10 reservoirs.
Because Washington State has one of the highest risks of expected casualties and economic loss from earthquakes in
the nation, the city needs water system infrastructure improvements for seismic resiliency. The Water Utility will apply
to participate in PNSN’s new pilot program that monitors earthquake activity using a network of sensors distributed
across the region. The ShakeAlert system, connected into the existing SCADA system, will alert the Water Utility,
which allows for automatic control actions and for emergency protocols to be taken by city personnel before shaking
occurs. The Water Utility will also evaluate retrofitting 6 existing reservoirs with seismic valves to automatically
shutoff water flow at the tank to prevent complete water loss. The Water Utility will develop post-earthquake isolation
and control protocols, which are needed to ensure adequate water storage and distribution during an emergency.
2-Year Objectives
Apply for grant funding for
pre-design of ShakeAlert, then
apply for the pilot program
Develop policies/protocols for
post-earthquake drinking water
isolation and control actions
5-Year Objectives
Fund pre-design of seismic valve retrofit
Allocate funding in the capital budget to
fund implementation of ShakeAlert and
seismic shut-off valve retrofit
Utilize ShakeAlert Earthquake Early
Warning for water system
Long-Term Objectives
Seismic valves on all
water tanks
Provide earthquake early
warning to residents with
ShakeAlert
Implementation Plan/Actions
Apply for a grant from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance through PDM to fund planning, policy
development, and pre-design of ShakeAlert device/software. If grant application is unsuccessful, include
planning / design of early warning system in 2021 budget.
Hire consultant to perform planning /design services and apply for ShakeAlert pilot program. If accepted into
pilot program, allocate capital funding to configure alarm signal and connect to SCADA to automatically
initiate predetermined control actions following a triggered earthquake alarm.
Fund planning, pre-design, and construction of seismic valve retrofit on water reservoirs.
Performance Measures
Solutions maintain the continuity of operations and water service