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ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
RENTON SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 403
LINDBERGH HIGH SCHOOL
MODERNIZATION AND ADDITIONS
January 2022
Prepared by the Environmental Consultant
For the Renton School District No. 403
Effective team solutions in project management, environmental and land use permitting,
civil engineering, and wetland resources.
Project
Lindbergh High School Modernization and Additions
Applicant
Renton School District No. 403
Attn.: Matt Feldmeyer, Executive Director of
Capital Planning and Construction
Environmental/Permitting Consultant
Laura S. Brent, AICP
Brent Planning Solutions, LLC
January 2022
SEPA Environmental Checklist
Lindbergh High School Modernization and Additions
i Renton School District No. 403
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. BACKGROUND .......................................................................................................... 1
B. ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS ............................................................................ 12
1. EARTH ................................................................................................................ 12
2. AIR ...................................................................................................................... 15
3. WATER ............................................................................................................... 16
4. PLANTS .............................................................................................................. 21
5. ANIMALS ........................................................................................................... 22
6. ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES ....................................................... 23
7. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ......................................................................... 24
8. LAND AND SHORELINE USE ........................................................................ 26
9. HOUSING ........................................................................................................... 32
10. AESTHETICS ..................................................................................................... 33
11. LIGHT AND GLARE ......................................................................................... 33
12. RECREATION .................................................................................................... 34
13. HISTORIC AND CULTURAL PRESERVATION ........................................... 34
14. TRANSPORTATION ......................................................................................... 35
15. PUBLIC SERVICES ........................................................................................... 38
16. UTILITIES .......................................................................................................... 38
C. SIGNATURE ............................................................................................................. 40
List of Figures
Figure 1 – Vicinity Map ...................................................................................................... 6
Figure 2 – Aerial Site Parcel Map ....................................................................................... 7
Figure 3 – Site Plan .............................................................................................................. 8
Figure 4 – Landscape Site Plan ........................................................................................... 9
Figure 5 – 3D Views (Area A) .......................................................................................... 10
Figure 6 – 3D Views (Area F2 & F3) ................................................................................ 11
Figure 7 – Grading Plan ..................................................................................................... 14
Figure 8 – Zoning Map ...................................................................................................... 28
Figure 9 – Comprehensive Plan Map ................................................................................ 29
Tables
Table 1 – Wetland Identification and Ratings ................................................................... 17
Table 2 – Typical Construction Noise ............................................................................... 26
Appendices
Appendix A: Legal Description
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Lindbergh High School Modernization and Additions
Page 1 Renton School District No. 403
WAC 197-11-960 Environmental checklist.
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
Purpose of checklist:
The State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA), chapter 43.21C RCW, requires all governmental agencies to
consider the environmental impacts of a proposal before making decisions. An environmental impact statement (EIS)
must be prepared for all proposals with probable significant adverse impacts on the quality of the environment. The
purpose of this checklist is to provide information to help you and the agency identify impacts from your proposal (and
to reduce or avoid impacts from the proposal, if it can be done) and to help the agency decide whether an EIS is required.
Instructions for applicants:
This environmental checklist asks you to describe some basic information about your proposal. Governmental
agencies use this checklist to determine whether the environmental impacts of your proposal are significant, requiring
preparation of an EIS. Answer the questions briefly, with the most precise information known, or give the best description
you can.
You must answer each question accurately and carefully, to the best of your knowledge. In most cases, you
should be able to answer the questions from your own observations or project plans without the need to hire experts. If
you really do not know the answer, or if a question does not apply to your proposal, write "do not know" or "does not
apply." Complete answers to the questions now may avoid unnecessary delays later.
Some questions ask about governmental regulations, such as zoning, shoreline, and landmark designations.
Answer these questions if you can. If you have problems, the governmental agencies can assist you.
The checklist questions apply to all parts of your proposal, even if you plan to do them over a period of time or
on different parcels of land. Attach any additional information that will help describe your proposal or its environmental
effects. The agency to which you submit this checklist may ask you to explain your answers or provide additional
information reasonably related to determining if there may be significant adverse impact.
Use of checklist for nonproject proposals:
Complete this checklist for nonproject proposals, even though questions may be answered "does not apply." IN
ADDITION, complete the SUPPLEMENTAL SHEET FOR NONPROJECT ACTIONS (part D).
For nonproject actions, the references in the checklist to the words "project," "applicant," and "property or site"
should be read as "proposal," "proposer," and "affected geographic area," respectively.
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
A. BACKGROUND
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable: Lindbergh High School Modernization and Additions
2. Name of applicant: Renton School District No. 403
3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person:
Applicant: Renton School District
Contact Person: Brianne Tomlin, Architect
Capital Planning & Construction
7812 S 124th Street, Seattle, Washington 98178
Phone: 425.204.4423
Email: brianne.tomlin@rentonschools.us
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Lindbergh High School Modernization and Additions
Page 2 Renton School District No. 403
Architect: Bassetti Architects
Contact Person Susan Conway, Project Manager
71 Columbia Street, #500, Seattle, Washington 98104
Phone: 206.536.1402
Email: SConway@bassettiarch.com
Environmental/Permitting
Consultant: Brent Planning Solutions, LLC
Contact Person: Laura S. Brent, AICP
P.O. Box 1586, Mukilteo, Washington 98275
Phone: 425.971.6409
Email: LBrent@brentplanningsolutions.com
4. Date checklist prepared: Checklist was prepared in January of 2022.
5. Agency requesting checklist: The City of Renton (City) is the agency with land use permit authority. The
Renton School District No. 403 (District) is acting as the lead agency for environmental review and SEPA
compliance for this project. This SEPA review is being conducted consistent with Renton School District
Policy 6890, State Environmental Policy Act. This Checklist has been prepared by Brent Planning Solutions,
LLC (BPS) and project consultants, and has been reviewed and authorized by the District.
6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable): The proposed Lindbergh High School
Modernization and Additions project would begin upon approval and issuance of permits from the City.
Construction on Lindbergh High School would be completed in phases to minimize educational disruptions
and to assure student and staff safety.
Site demolition and utility work at the entrance and at the science classroom addition w ould begin in the
summer of 2022. Interior demolition at the Student Commons, and demolition of Lincoln House would also
begin at this time. The start date of this work would be pending an early building permit issuance from the
City of Renton.
In the fall of 2022, after building permit issuance, construction of the entrance addition and Administration
renovation would begin. This work is scheduled to be complete by early 2023.
In the fall of 2022, after building permit issuance, construction of the Science Classroom addition would
begin. When this work is complete, the existing science rooms would be renovated. Construction on the
Science wing is scheduled to last through the Fall of 2023.
Interior demolition and renovation of the Career and Counselling Center would begin in early winter of 2023.
This work would finish in the summer of 2023.
Interior demolition and renovation of the Locker rooms would begin in mid-winter of 2023. This work would
finish in the summer of 2023.
Mechanical upgrade work would be completed incrementally throughout the duration of the project with the
various phases of work.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or connected with
this proposal? If yes, explain.
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There are no plans for future additions or expansion at this time.
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be prepared,
directly related to this proposal.
The following reports and information for this proposal are incorporated by reference. The reports are
available for review at the District.
Pre-Application Letter/Meeting #PRE21-000376 ............................................ City of Renton, Planning Division
Wetland Rating Update (December 2021) ................................................................................. Theresa R. Dusek
Tree Assessment (November 18, 2021)..................................................... Washington Forestry Consultants, Inc.
Pre-renovation Limited Hazardous Building Materials
Assessment Report (October 20, 2021) ......................................................................... Terracon Consultants, Inc.
Transportation Memo (January 2022) ......................................................................... Heffron Transportation, Inc
Design Development Civil Narrative (January 2022) ................................................................. LPD Engineering
Geotechnical Engineering Report (October 2021/Jan. 3, 2022 Parking Lot) ........ Associated Earth Sciences, Inc.
Project Permit Plans (January 2022).................................... Bassetti Architects/Site Workshop/LPD Engineering
Information in this Checklist is based on the referenced material as well as information on the project from
the applicant, consultants and researched items. Direct excerpts from the reports have been included to
provide the reader more detailed information.
9. Do you know whether applications are pending for governmental approvals of other proposals directly
affecting the property covered by your proposal? If yes, explain.
Other approvals directly related to the proposal are listed in Item #10, and would be processed as part of the
building permit process. There are no other known applications pending.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
The following permits/approvals have been identified as possible permits for this proposal:
SEPA Determination/Compliance ................................................................. Renton School District No. 403
Hearing Examiner Site Plan Review ........................................................................................ City of Renton
Lot Consolidation ..................................................................................................................... City of Renton
Frontage Modification .............................................................................................................. City of Renton
Commercial Building Permit/Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing/Demolition ............................ City of Renton
Potential Haul Route Agreement, Public Works ...................................................................... City of Renton
Land Disturbing Activity (LDA) Permits/Grading ................................................................... City of Renton
Right-of-Way Use Permit(s) ..................................................................................................... City of Renton
Stormwater Review/Approval .................................................................................................. City of Renton
Fire Permit ................................................................................................................................ City of Renton
Air Quality Permit ......................................................................... Puget Sound Clean Air Agency (PSCAA)
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) ................. Washington Department of Ecology
Electrical Permit Review ........................................................ Washington State Dept. of Labor & Industries
School Plan Review ............................................................................................. King County Health District
Utility Extensions ................................................................................................................ Various Providers
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Other permits may be identified during the review and permitting process. Information in this Checklist is
based on the referenced material as well as information on the project from the applicant, consultants and
research items.
11. Give brief, complete description of your proposal, including the proposed uses and the size of the
project and site. There are several questions later in this checklist th at ask you to describe certain
aspects of your proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers on this page.
The Renton School District voters approved the 2019 Construction Bond, which raised nearly $250 million.
A portion of the projects included in the bond were for Lindbergh High School (LHS), which is located at
16426 - 128th Avenue SE in Renton. The subject site is over 37 acres in size and contains three tax parcels
(KCA#282305-9004, -9042, and -9093). The school building was originally constructed in 1970. While the
school is located within a single-family neighborhood (zoned R-6), there is church property along the
southwest boundary, and an elementary school further to the southwest. A large Resource Conservation zone
abuts the subject site to the southeast, which is owned by King County Parks.
Work on the Lindbergh High School Renovation consists of the construction of two additions and an interior
remodel to various spaces of the existing school. The high school would be occupied for the duration of the
project. In order to reduce impact to students and staff, construction would be phased (as previously
described in #6).
The MACC for the full scope of LHS work is $26.5 million. The addition and modernization improvements
include the following:
• A 1,630 square foot addition at the main entrance of the building. The addition would be the new location
for the Administration and Health Suite. Existing Lobby and Commons would be renovated to
accommodate the new Administration location.
• A 3,000 square foot addition at the northeast area of the school (known as the Lincoln House) would
house four new science classrooms and support spaces. The addition would require demolition of the
roof, the north wall and a portion of the east wall of the existing Lincoln House. All new science
classrooms would be equipped with water and gas, and would support teaching of all hard sciences.
• The existing science wing of the school would be renovated to modernize science classrooms and support
spaces. All renovated classrooms would be equipped with water and gas, and would support teaching of
all hard sciences. Limited demolition to the existing exterior masonry walls would be necessary to cut in
windows on the existing west walls. A 700 square foot mechanical addition would be built on the east
side of the existing science classroom wing. The mechanical addition would serve the renovated
classrooms.
• Both science wings would have a rooftop clerestory to bring in daylighting to classrooms. The clerestory
would also contain mechanical ductwork and equipment to serve classrooms.
• The existing Locker Rooms at the Gymnasium would be modernized. All interior partition walls would
be demolished. No work to the existing structure or exterior envelope would be required for this work.
New Girls and Boys Locker Rooms would be equally sized and provide shower and changing facilities.
A classroom, training room and storage rooms would also be provided.
• Interior renovations to support the relocation of various program areas would also be required; notably at
the existing Administration Office, which would be demolished and reconfigured for the Counseling
Office and Career Center. The existing restrooms at the science wing would also be modernized. Fixtures
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would be replaced and minor interior adjustments would be made to the partition and fixture locations so
that the restrooms would meet accessibility requirements.
• The HVAC systems throughout the existing building and Gymnasium would be upgraded.
Site work includes the relocation of underground utilities at the main entrance of the building. Clearing,
grading and general site prep for the mechanical addition at the east side of the existing science wing would
be required. The repair and resurfacing of the existing 73,650 square foot southwest parking lot would also
be a part of the project. There would also be courtyard improvements, a pad area for a future greenhouse and
various landscaping improvements.
Other key elements of the environment include required frontage improvements along 128th Avenue SE and
the dedication of additional right-of-way. This work would involve the majority of earthwork for the project.
An estimated earthwork quantity for the total project is: Cut = 2,100 cubic yards and Fill = 600 cubic yards
(Total On-site Cut = 2,000 CY and Fill = 500 CY; Total Off-site Cut = 100 CY and Fill = 100 CY).
12. Location of the proposal. Give sufficient information for a person to understand the precise location
of your proposed project, including a street address, if any, and section, township, and range, if known.
If a proposal would occur over a range of area, provide the range or boundaries of the site(s). Provide
a legal description, site plan, vicinity map, and topographic map, if reasonably available. While you
should submit any plans required by the agency, you are not required to duplicate maps or detailed
plans submitted with any permit applications related to this checklist.
Lindbergh High School (LHS) is located at 16426 - 128th Avenue SE in Renton. The subject site is over 37
acres in size and contains three tax parcels (KCA#282305-9004, -9042, and -9093). The school site is located
within the northeast quarter of Section 28, Township 23 North, Range 5 East, Wm.M. [see Figure 1 – Vicinity
Map, Figure 2 – Aerial Site Parcel Map, Figure 3 – Site Plan, Figure 4 – Landscape Site Plan, Figure 5
– Landscape Site Plan, Figure 6 – 3D Views (Area A) and Figure 7 – 3D Views (Area F2 & F3)].
Project drawings/plans, which have been reduced and inserted into the Checklist, have been submitted to the
City and are available as full-size drawings that may be reviewed at the District’s office.
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Source: City of Renton – Online Mapping, 2021
Figure 1 – Vicinity Map
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Figure 2 – Aerial Site Parcel Map
N
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Figure 3 – Site Plan
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Figure 4 – Landscape Site Plan
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Figure 5 – 3D Views (Area A)
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Figure 6 – 3D Views (Area F2 & F3)
EVALUATION FOR
AGENCY USE ONLY
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B. ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
1. EARTH
a. General description of the site (circle one): Flat , rolling, hilly, steep slopes,
mountainous, other.
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
The site contains regulated slopes throughout portions of the school property and in
some of the undeveloped areas. There are regulated slopes designated throughout the
school site including within the proposed building renovation areas. The steepest
slope on the site is 1:2 slope, which is outside the project area. Topographically, the
specific renovation site area is relatively flat, but generally slopes down from the east
to the west from a high elevation of approximately 430-feet. Elevations descend to a
low point at the surface parking area adjacent to the west of the major portions of the
school facility, where the elevation is approximately 400-feet.
c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay, sand, gravel,
peat, muck)? If you know the classification of agricultural soils, specify them and
note any prime farmland.
A geotechnical study was conducted for the site, which included test borings of the
areas of construction. The published regional geologic maps indicate that the site is
underlain at shallow depths by Vashon lodgement till. Lodgement till sediments are
suitable for support of moderate to heavily loaded structures with normal preparation,
but are not suitable for use as an infiltration receptor for collected stormwater.
Subsurface conditions observed in explorations for this study were generally
consistent with the referenced published geologic mapping. Review of the Natural
Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Web Soils Survey shows that the site is
mapped as Alderwood gravelly sandy loam (AgC). The survey describes the soils
being formed from the weathering of glacial sediments, which is also generally
consistent with on-site exploration observations.
d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate
vicinity? If so, describe.
A review of mapped critical areas on King County iMAP shows that an undeveloped
area along the southeast edge of the project site is flagged as a potential seismic hazard
area. No other geotechnical critical areas are flagged on or immediately adjacent to
the site.
Based on visual reconnaissance done during the geotechnical study, the site existing
slopes appear to have performed well with no visual indications of unusual erosion,
slope instability, or emergent groundwater seepage. Due to the subsurface conditions
on the site and the inclination and height of the slopes, the risk of damage to the
proposed improvements by landslide activity on these slopes under both static and
seismic conditions is low.
EVALUATION FOR
AGENCY USE ONLY
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e. Describe the purpose, type, total area, and approximate quantities and total
affected area of any filling, excavation, and grading proposed. Indicate source of
fill.
There would be excavation and grading within the project area. The total area of
disturbance is 0.82 acres and 0.6 acre for the frontage improvement work. It is
estimated that the earthwork quantities for the project would be as provided as follows:
An estimated earthwork quantity for the total project is: Cut = 2,100 cubic yards and
Fill = 600 cubic yards (Total On-site Cut = 2,000 CY and Fill = 500 CY; Total Off-
site Cut = 100 CY and Fill = 100 CY). Structural fill would consist of imported, clean,
well-graded sand or sand and gravel. (For additional details refer to Figure 7 – Grading
Plan.)
f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally
describe.
Surface erosion may occur as a result of clearing and grading operations. Localized
erosion may occur as a result of construction activities; however, it would not extend
outside the project limits. The contractor would be responsible for construction slope
configurations and maintaining safe working conditions, including temporary excavation
stability. All applicable local, state, and federal safety codes would be followed. All open
cuts should be monitored during and after excavation for evidence of instability. If
instability is detected, the contractor would flatten the side slopes or install temporary
shoring.
During construction, surface water should be collected as close as possible to the source
to minimize silt entrainment that could require treatment or detention prior to discharge.
Timely implementation of permanent drainage control measures should also be a part of
the project plans and would help reduce erosion and generation of silty surface water on-
site.
Compliance with the project’s Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) would
be required and would include stabilizing soils within disturbed areas and protecting
exposed slopes. Use of on-site erosion control measures including silt fences, compost
filter socks, construction entrances, catch basin protection, interceptor swales,
sedimentation pond, and other standard construction erosion control practices, and
seasonal limitations of construction would control the potential for on-site erosion.
g. About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after
project construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
After project construction, 709,210 square feet or 44% of the site would be covered
with impervious surfaces.
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Figure 7 – Grading Plan
EVALUATION FOR
AGENCY USE ONLY
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h. Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if
any:
To the extent possible, the disturbed area of the project site would be limited to
minimize erosion potential and best management practices (BMPs) would be utilized
during project implementation. All TESCs measures would conform to the
Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) BMPs and/or other applicable
regulatory bodies and be consistent with the City regulations. To reduce erosion, some
or all of the following vegetative cover practices may be implemented as site
conditions dictate: seeding, mulching and matting, and/or clear plastic covering.
Structural practices to control erosion include a stabilized construction entrance, filter
fabric fence, and/or compost filter socks for perimeter siltation control, pipe slope
drains and/or check dams. Recommendations in the Geotechnical Engineering Report
provide guidelines for site development and information for the contractor.
A preliminary SWPPP would be prepared for the proposal. The preliminary SWPPP
is designed to meet the requirements of the City and NPDES.
2. AIR
a. What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal during
construction, operation, and maintenance when the project is completed? If any,
generally describe and give approximate quantities if known.
Emissions to the air would result from the grading and construction activities
(including demolition activity) and equipment. The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
(PSCAA) is responsible for ensuring compliance with federal, state and local air
quality regulations in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties. PSCCA oversees
demolitions that include asbestos. The agency regulates airborne particulate matter
and handling/removal of any asbestos containing materials. The District evaluated the
subject project for asbestos and other potentially hazardous substances, which is
detailed under Environmental Health 7.a.1. Proper abatement of the building would
be done prior to demolition and precautions would be made to prevent the release of
any hazardous dust from site work.
There would be a minor increase of vehicles traveling to the site during the
construction. These vehicles would be related to the on-site construction related
activity and personal vehicles of construction workers. Construction would result in
temporary, localized increases in pollutant emissions from construction activities and
equipment. Dust from excavation and grading could contribute to ambient
concentrations of suspended particulate matter. Emissions related to the project
construction would be short-term and should not generate any significant air quality
impacts. Once the project is completed, the primary emissions sources would be from
traffic of area residents and on the adjacent road system. The type and levels of those
emissions would be minimal and would produce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
consistent with the existing uses and conditions in the vicinity.
EVALUATION FOR
AGENCY USE ONLY
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b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal?
If so, generally describe.
Off-site sources of emissions or odor are mainly related to vehicular traffic on the
adjacent roadways and are not anticipated to affect the proposal.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any:
Construction contractor(s) would have to comply with the Northwest Clean Air
Agency’s (NWCAAs) regulations. The project would fully comply with NWCAA’s
regulations. The use of watering trucks would be employed during project
construction to keep dust to a minimum. Exposed areas would be vegetated as quickly
as possible or covered with mulch and/or plastic covering. Construction equipment
would be kept in good operating condition to minimize exhaust. Contractor(s) would
be required to take all reasonable precautions to avoid or minimize fugitive dust
emissions during project construction. With the required control measures in place,
the potential from on-site construction air quality impacts is minimal.
3. WATER
a. Surface:
1) Is there any surface water body on or in the immediate vicinity of the site
(including year-round and seasonal streams, saltwater, lakes, ponds,
wetlands)? If yes, describe type and provide names. If appropriate, state what
stream or river it flows into.
In 2011 a Wetland Delineation and Fish and Wildlife Habitat Report was
completed by AHBL. The 2011 report identified four wetlands on the site. The
City of Renton staff requested an update to the report since their code requires
the most recent 2014 Wetland System for Western Washington standards and
they have also updated wetland buffers in the code.
The wetland boundaries, soils and hydrologic conditions of the four wetlands have
not significantly changed; however, the vegetation composition of Wetland B has
changed, and Wetlands A and C wetland ratings are currently Category 4.
Descriptions of the wetlands, wetland rating, Cowardian classification and wetland
hydrogeomorphic classifications and current code required buffer are listed in the
following table (Table 1 – Wetland Identification and Ratings).
EVALUATION FOR
AGENCY USE ONLY
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Table 1 – Wetland Identification and Ratings
Wetland
Identification
Estimated
Wetland Size
Cowardin
Classification
Rating/
Hydrogeomorphic
Classification
Renton Buffer
Wetland A Onsite: 5,440 sf
Total estimated
size 9,000 sf
Palustrine
emergent
seasonally
flooded
Category 4 with Habitat
Score of 3/Slope
50 feet for land use
other than low impact
uses per Renton Code 4-
3-050 G (2)
Wetland B Total 1,165 sf Palustrine
Forested
saturated
Category 3 with Habitat
Score of 4/Slope
75 feet for land use
other than low impact
uses per Renton Code 4-
3-050 G
Wetland C Total 1,399 sf Palustrine
scrub-shrub
saturated
Category 4 with Habitat
Score of 3/Slope
50 feet for land use
other than low impact
uses per Renton Code 4-
3-050 G (2)
Wetland D Onsite 1,786 sf Palustrine
scrub- shrub
seasonally
flooded
Category 3 with Habitat
Score of 4/Slope
75 feet for low impact
uses and 150 feet for land
use other than low impact
uses per Renton Code 4-
3-050 G (2).
Source: Wetland Rating Update (December 2021, Dusek)
The four on-site wetlands were likely once a channel or swale that discharged to the
Molasses Creek wetland complex located off-site to the south about 250 feet.
Molasses Creek is located over 300 feet south of the site. The legally constructed
school buildings, fields, parking areas and driveways altered the land in the early
1970s. The nearest project element to the delineated wetlands is the parking lot
resurfacing west of the existing pool building, which is 180 feet west of the nearest
wetland (Wetland A).
2) Will the project require any work over, in, or adjacent to (within 200 feet) the
described waters? If yes, please describe and attach available plans.
The nearest project element to the delineated wetlands is the parking lot resurfacing
west of the existing pool building, which is 180 feet west of the nearest wetland
(Wetland A). There would be no impact to Wetland A.
3) Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be placed in or
removed from surface water or wetlands and indicate the area of the site that
would be affected. Indicate the source of fill material.
There would be no fill or dredging within any wetland or stream area. Therefore,
no fill or dredge material would be placed in or removed from any surface water or
wetlands.
4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions? Give
general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
The proposed project would not involve surface water withdrawals or diversions.
See discussion under 3.c. Water Runoff for additional information.
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AGENCY USE ONLY
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5) Does the proposal lie within a 100-year floodplain? If so, note location on the
site plan.
This property does not lie within a 100-year floodplain.
6) Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to surface waters?
If so, describe the type of waste and anticipated volume of discharge.
There would be no discharge of waste materials to surface waters. Domestic water
would be provided to the site by the City. A Construction Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is appended to the Storm Water Technical Information
Report. It would be enforced as a requirement of the construction contract and
City/state regulations.
b. Ground:
1) Will ground water be withdrawn from a well for drinking water, or other
purposes? If so, give general description of the well, proposed uses and
approximate quantities withdrawn from the well. Will water be discharged to
ground water? Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities
if known.
Construction-related groundwater impacts are not anticipated. Public water is
provided to the site by the City.
2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground from septic
tanks or other sources, if any (for example: Domestic sewage; industrial,
containing the following chemicals...; agricultural; etc.). Describe the general
size of the system, the number of such systems, the number of houses to be
served (if applicable), or the number of animals or humans the system(s) are
expected to serve.
Waste material would not be discharged into the ground from the proposal. Sewers
currently serve the area and would be available to the site.
c. Water Runoff (including storm water):
1) Describe the source of runoff (including storm water) and method of collection
and disposal, if any (include quantities, if known). Where will this water flow?
Will this water flow into other waters? If so, describe.
The source of runoff is from stormwater runoff. The site resides within the Soos
Creek Water and Sewer District service area. Stormwater is under the jurisdiction
of the City of Renton. Stormwater improvements would be evaluated and designed
in accordance with the requirements in the 2017 City of Renton Surface Water
Design Manual. There are two distinct drainage systems on-site, which divide the
site into two threshold discharge areas. The receiving waterbody for the north
portion of the school site is Ginger Creek, which is more than a quarter-mile
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downstream of the site. The receiving waterbody for the south portion of the school
site is Molasses Creek, which is less than a quarter-mile downstream.
Ginger and Molasses Creek both eventually discharge to the Cedar River.
The existing storm drainage system would require rerouting and new connections
for downspouts, footing drains, and french drains. These improvements are not
anticipated to have a significant impact on the capacity of the system. There is an
existing grassed area designated as a stormwater dispersion path for the parking lot
that would be slightly impacted by the proposed renovations. Measures would be
taken to mitigate elsewhere on the site where feasible.
Downspouts on the proposed renovated building area would connect to the existing
roof overflow drain, which is internally routed. The existing storm system would
be rerouted, and approximately 200 feet of storm drainage pipe would need to be
removed or abandoned in place where not below structure. Approximately 200 feet
of new storm drainage piping would be required for the reroute, in addition to a
new manhole and a catch basin. This would impact a portion of the asphalt drive
at the entryway and the vertical curb.
A full drainage review that evaluates the Core Requirements (CR) #1-9 would be
required since the project proposes more than 2,000 square feet (SF) of new plus
replaced impervious surface. CR #3 Flow Control (detention) would likely not be
required since it is anticipated that the target surfaces required to be mitigated only
include the new impervious surfaces and would not increase the peak flow rate of
the 100-year storm event by 0.15 cubic feet per second (cfs). It is anticipated that
CR#8 Water Quality (treatment facility) would not be required since the project
would propose less than 5,000 SF of new plus replaced pollution-generating
impervious surface.
The City has requested frontage improvements along 128th Avenue SE. As a result,
re-designing drainage improvements to meet stormwater mitigation requirements
for both on- and off-site development for the project has to be completed. Since
the site improvements did not independently require stormwater flow control
mitigation, it was not until the additional requirements of the frontage that flow
control mitigation was triggered. The project would meet the stormwater
mitigation requirements resulting from both the on-site improvements and frontage
improvements in the right-of-way in accordance with the City adopted 2016 King
County Surface Water Design Manual (KCSWDM) and the City’s 2017 Surface
Water Design Manual Amendment (RSWDM).
2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally
describe.
Waste materials are not anticipated to enter ground or surface waters from
construction. BMPs and the requirements of an approved SWPPP would be
incorporated into construction to minimize the opportunity for waste materials
and/or construction materials entering groundwater. Typical erosion controls are
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anticipated for use during construction, as well as any other applicable controls, as
required.
3) Does the proposal alter or otherwise affect drainage patterns in the vicinity of
the site? If so, describe.
The proposal would not alter drainage patterns in the vicinity.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, runoff water, and
drainage pattern impacts, if any:
Per the City of Renton WQ Applications Map, the project is in a Basic Water Quality
Treatment area; however, since schools are classified as commercial projects, Enhanced
Basic Water Quality would be provided. Water quality treatment is required for the
playfield, bus lane, and parking lot as they are considered to be pollution -generating
surfaces. Also, frontage improvements would require water quality treatment and
coordination with the City. All the other impervious surfaces such as the roof,
walkways, and gated fire apparatus are non-pollution generating. The proposed water
quality facility would be a Modular Wetland System, which does have General Use
Level Designation (GULD) approval by Ecology for enhanced treatment.
BMPs would be incorporated into the grading activity. A TESC plan would be put in
place and would incorporate erosion control measures. As a control measure,
vegetative cover practices may be implemented as site conditions dictate, which may
include: seeding, mulching and matting, and/or clear plastic covering. Additional
control measures may include structural practices to control erosion including a
stabilized construction entrance, filter fabric fence and/or compost filter socks for
perimeter siltation control, pipe slope drains and/or check dams. To the extent possible
the disturbed area of the project site would be limited to minimize erosion potential.
A SWPPP has been prepared for the project. The SWPPP addresses erosion,
sedimentation and provides pollution controls during construction. Operation and
maintenance activities, and storage and disposal at the construction site would be
conducted to minimize the potential for contamination of stormwater runoff.
Enhanced water quality treatment is incorporated into the design.
CR#9 On-site Best Management Practices (BMPs) would likely be required to be
evaluated. Target surfaces for the application of on-site BMPs would include new
impervious surfaces that are not already mitigated by an approved on-site BMP or flow
control facility. Based on the existing stormwater infrastructure and what is known
about the site soils, infiltrative BMPs such as bioretention may not be feasible. Since
there is limited vegetated surfaces directly downstream of the proposed improvements,
dispersion devices are not likely feasible. There is a significant amount of existing
permeable pavement along the northeast side of the existing building. The location of
the existing pavement is at the toe of a grassed slope and a portion is beneath tree
coverage. The pavement is subject to sheet flow and underlying saturated soils, which
has caused moss and silt to clog the void space of the pavement. The pavement does
not appear to function as originally intended; therefore, the additional permeable
pavement is not anticipated to be utilized. One additional possible BMP that could
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potentially be utilized is perforated pipe connections for the proposed roof
downspouts.
4. PLANTS
a. Check the types of vegetation found on the site:
✓ Deciduous tree: Alder, maple, aspen, other: ______
✓ Evergreen tree: Fir, cedar, pine, other: ______
✓ Shrubs
✓ Grass
__ Pasture
__ Crop or grain
__ Orchards, vineyards or other permanent crops
✓ Wet soil plants: Cattail, buttercup, bullrush , skunk cabbage , other: _________
__ Water plants: Water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other: __________
__ Other types of vegetation
There are existing deciduous trees and shrubs; areas are dominated by Douglas-fir,
bigleaf maple, Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, and lawn areas. Vegetation within
Wetland A includes rushes, sedges, bentgrass , and buttercups. Several landscape
trees are rooted outside of the wetland and provide overstory cover. Vegetation
within Wetland B includes alder and cottonwood trees, with an understory of
salmonberry and red osier dogwood. Wetland C and D vegetation includes
salmonberry, red osier dogwood, and soft rush. Vegetation within the wetlands and
associated buffers would not be impacted.
b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
A Tree Retention Plan and Worksheet would be provided to the City. The plan shows
those trees that would remain on-site. (Refer to Figure 4 – Landscape Site Plan for
additional details). There are four trees within the project construction area. Two of
those trees would be replaced with Queen Elizabeth Hedge Maple and Vine Maple
species. The total planting would be 1.143 square feet.
c. List threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site:
The southeast corner of the school campus is mapped as containing a wetland system,
associated with the lower Cedar River Watershed, according to the Washington State
Department of Fisheries and Wildlife’s Priority Habitats and Species on the Web
database. It describes that many of these are forested areas and many have some open
water component; however, there were no threatened or endangered vegetation species
identified on or known to exist on or adjacent to the project site.
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or
enhance vegetation on the site, if any:
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The Landscape Plan for the site was designed to utilize native and drought tolerant
plant materials to reduce the need for long-term use of supplemental irrigation. The
landscape design avoids the use of any plants that require intensive hand pruning or
weeding. Portions of the development area not covered by structures or other paved
areas, would be landscaped with native, drought-resistant vegetative cover. Irrigation
would be provided to enhance plant establishment. Mitigation would be provided for
the loss of two trees in the project area.
The City has indicated that street frontage improvements are only needed from the
south side of the north entry drive to the school to the north side of the bus exit drive
from the south parking lot. The City has also requested that the existing street trees,
and any significant trees near the parking lot entry drives, remain in place. To allow
the trees to remain the site would have an approximate 16-foot landscape buffer next
to the street and a 5-foot sidewalk. The City would consider having the sidewalk jog
back next to the street to get around the existing PSE-owned electrical switch on the
north end of the frontage.
e. List all noxious weeds and invasive species known to be on or near the site.
Although not catalogued, the project area may include common weeds including
dandelion, annual ryegrass (poa), blackberry etc. The District would conduct noxious
weed control after construction to maintain the overall site and wetland buffer areas.
5. ANIMALS
a. List any birds and other animals which have been observed on or near the site or
are known to be on or near the site. Examples include:
birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds , other: ______________
mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other: _______________
fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other: ___________
The wetland areas do provide habitat for species more tolerant of the surrounding
urban environment. Animal species that are assumed to use the project area based on
the urban location and presence of forest and scrub-shrub vegetation include urban-
tolerant mammal species (raccoon, opossum, etc.), and urban-tolerant bird species
(robin, jays, and other songbirds).
b. List any threatened and endangered species known to be on or near the site.
According to the Washington State Department of Fisheries and Wildlife’s Priority
Habitats and Species On the Web database, there are no threatened or endangered
animal species identified on or known to exist adjacent to the project site.
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
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The project site is located along the Pacific Flyway, which includes Alaska, Arizona,
California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and those portions of Colorado,
Montana, New Mexico, and Wyoming west of the Continental Divide. This is one of
three major migratory routes in North America. The Pacific Flyway stretches 4,000
miles north-to-south and 1,000 miles east-to-west, from the Arctic to the west coast of
Mexico and the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. Every year, migratory birds
travel some or all of this distance both in spring and in fall, following food sources,
heading to breeding grounds, or travelling to overwintering sites. There is no evidence
that the project area of the site is of any specific value to migrating birds.
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any:
The landscaping provided meets or exceeds City code requirements and could provide
limited habitat for on-site species. The wetland areas with the associated buffer would
continue to provide habitat for wildlife more tolerate of the surrounding urban uses.
e. List any invasive animal species known to be on or near the site.
It is likely that within the area there are rodents, mice, feral cats, etc. present on
portions of the site; however, no specific species have been observed or documented
on the subject site.
6. ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
a. What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, wood stove, solar) will be used to
meet the completed project's energy needs? Describe whether it will be used for
heating, manufacturing, etc.
Both electric and natural gas services, provided by Puget Sound Energy, would be
used to serve the energy needs at the subject site, in addition to a recently installed
50KV solar array.
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent
properties? If so, generally describe.
With the location of the school building internal to the site and location of the adjacent
road systems, the project would not impact the use of solar energy from adjacent
properties.
c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this
proposal? List of other proposed measures to reduce or control energy impacts,
if any:
The design would incorporate a selection of efficient LED lighting fixtures, spacing
and placement and meet Washington State Energy Code. Occupancy sensors and
daylight responsive controls would be provided in all areas where required by Code.
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Additional features include:
• Building served by Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS) with heat recovery;
• Daylighting controls for building lighting;
Energy conservation features built into the current mechanical design include:
• High efficiency, low heating water temperature, condensing boilers;
• Variable speed heating and chilled water pumping;
• Energy recovery on all DOAS units; and
• CO2 sensors in variable, high occupant density areas.
7. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to toxic
chemicals, risk of fire and explosion, spill, or hazardous waste that could occur
as a result of this proposal? If so describe.
There are certain opportunities for hazards during construction. These are limited by
the requirements for the general contractor and subcontractors that would be doing the
work. All State and federal requirements for construction safety would be met. The
completed project would not generate any environmental hazards. The District does
facilitate a building/employee safety program and other functions to maintain a high
level of environmental safety on their sites.
1) Describe any known or possible contamination at the site from present or
past uses.
Limited soil testing did not reveal any soil contamination on-site. However, a pre-
renovation assessment for building hazardous materials reported the following:
Asbestos: One hundred sixty-two bulk samples of suspect asbestos-containing
materials were collected and analyzed using Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM).
Eight materials were found to contain greater than one percent asbestos, four
materials were assumed to contain asbestos, and three materials were found to
contain less than one percent asbestos.
Lead: Twenty-one paint chip samples were collected and analyzed for total lead
content. Nine of the paint chip samples were found to contain detectable levels
of lead.
Other Regulated Materials: One hundred eighty-three mercury-containing
fluorescent light tubes were identified within the project area. Some light ballasts
associated with fluorescent light fixtures were observed to be PCB-containing.
Asbestos-related work must be performed in compliance with Washington State
worker protection and environmental protection regulations. See WAC 296-62,
WAC 296-65, and PSCAA Regulation III, Article 4. Lead and other regulated
materials would also be removed consistent with state regulations. Fluorescent
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light tubes, HID lamps, switches, thermostats, and PCB light ballasts would be
removed prior to any demolition.
2) Describe existing hazardous chemicals/conditions that might affect project
development and design. This includes underground hazardous liquid and
gas transmission pipelines located within the project area and in the vicinity.
There are no known hazardous conditions on or underground at the project site.
3) Describe any toxic or hazardous chemicals that might be stored, used, or
produced during the project’s development or construction, or at any time
during the operating life of the project.
Petroleum fuels normally required for construction equipment and maintenance
equipment would be used on-site. There are no hazardous materials or chemicals
that would be used as part of the building, parking lot or landscaping on-going
maintenance.
4) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
Emergency services would most likely be associated with response by the fire
department or police. The area is served by emergency providers.
5) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if
any:
The site would be well-managed during construction with safety standards
implemented. At the project completion, the site would provide excellent access
to all structures, and fire and safety provisions would be incorporated into the
building operation and design. There would be adequate fire flow for the school
provided with a new water main looped from the existing system. Any potential
chemicals used on-site, for either school programming or building maintenance
would follow proper procedures for use and storage.
The project planning has considered indoor environmental air quality.
b. Noise
1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for
example: traffic, equipment, operation, aircraft, other?
Existing noise generators are mainly those associated with vehicles on the
adjacent road systems, and adjacent residential, church and park uses.
2) What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated with the
project on a short-term or a long-term basis (for example: traffic,
construction, operation, other)? Indicate what hours noise would come from
the site.
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Noise generated from construction equipment would occur. This would be for
both the on-site and frontage construction areas. These generators are usually of
short duration and restricted to hours per the City and Chapter 7 RMC. The short-
term increase and duration of noise levels would depend on the type of
construction equipment being used and the amount of time it is in steady use
(demolition and redevelopment). For example, at 200 feet from the area of
construction, the equivalent sound level (Leq, a measure of long-term average
noise exposure) for activities and equipment would be approximately as provided
in Table 2 – Typical Construction Noise.
Table 2 – Typical Construction Noise
Types of Equipment Range of Noise Levels (in decibels*)
Bulldozer 65-84
Dump Truck 70-82
Paver 74-76
Activity Range of Hourly Leq (in decibels*)
Grading 63-76
Finishing 62-77
* Decibels - The decibel (abbreviated dB) is the unit used to measure the
intensity of a sound.
Potential sources of noise associated with the proposal include buses and vehicles
traveling on on-site roadways, operation of an emergency generator during power
outages and monthly generator maintenance, and an air-cooled chiller.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
Noise levels would vary due to the type and usage of the equipment. Construction
noises are only generated during those times and are usually of short duration for
each activity. The District is sensitive to the impact construction can have on
surrounding uses and has worked directly with neighborhoods on other school
construction projects. Construction noise impacts would be limited to hours of
construction as regulated by the City unless the District determines to pursue a
variance to those hours. Any variance would be regulated and consistent with
code requirements. Impacts would be limited to construction and would be of
short duration.
Model-calculated sound levels of on-site traffic and chiller operations during peak
morning arrival indicate compliance with the applicable noise limits during
daytime hours. Model-calculated sound levels of chiller operations
simultaneously with generator maintenance indicates this activity would comply
with the daytime noise limits at all receptor locations.
8. LAND AND SHORELINE USE
a. What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties? Will the proposal
affect current land uses on nearby or adjacent properties? If so, describe.
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The project site has been historically and currently utilized for school uses.
The school building was originally constructed in 1970. While the school is located
within a single-family neighborhood, there is church property along the southwest
boundary, and an elementary school further to the southwest. A large Resource
Conservation zone abuts the subject site to the southeast, which is owned by King
County Parks.
b. Has the project site been used as working farmlands or working forest lands? If
so, describe. How much agricultural or forest land of long-term commercial
significance will be converted to other uses as a result of the proposal, if any? If
resource lands have not been designated, how many acres in farmland or forest
land tax status will be converted to nonfarm or nonforest use?
The property has no known history of agricultural or managed forestry other than the
clearing that would have taken place upon granting of the original development permit
at the site.
1) Will the proposal affect or be affected by surrounding working farm or forest
land normal business operations, such as oversize equipment access, the
application of pesticides, tilling, and harvesting? If so, how:
No; there are no working farms or active forest land uses in the vicinity.
c. Describe any structures on the site.
The subject site contains a high school with administrative and classroom buildings,
gymnasium, pool and portables.
d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
The Administration Office would have internal spaces demolished and reconfigured
for the Counseling Office and Career Center. A 3,000 square foot addition at the
northeast area of the school (known as the Lincoln House) would house four new
science classrooms and support spaces. The addition would require demolition of the
roof, the north wall and a portion of the east wall of the existing Lincoln House. There
would be internal demolition of walls as part of the other areas that would be
modernized.
e. What is the current zoning designation of the site?
The three subject parcels (existing school campus) are zoned Residential-6 (R-6) with
a land use designation of Residential Medium Density, (see Figure 8 – Zoning Map
for additional detail). The City’s Zoning Use Table Renton Municipal Code allows
K-12 public institutions in the R-6 zone with a Hearing Examiner Conditional Use
Permit. A Hearing Examiner Conditional Use Permit is required when changes in
facilities exceed 10% of the development’s gross floor area. Based on the provided
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site plan and project scope, the changes would not exceed the 10% threshold to trigger
a Hearing Examiner Conditional Use Permit. The proposed renovations would not
expand the uses at the subject site or substantially change the way the site is being
used.
The subject site is not located within a designated neighborhood of Renton; however,
it abuts the Cascade neighborhood along its western side, and is just north of the
Renton Park neighborhood. Unincorporated King County abuts the eastern boundary
of the subject site.
Figure 8 – Zoning Map
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
The subject site is designated as Residential Medium Density (see Figure 9 –
Comprehensive Plan Map for additional detail).
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Figure 9 – Comprehensive Plan Map
g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the
site?
Not applicable; there are no shoreline related overlays or designations on the property.
h. Has any part of the site been classified as a critical area by the city or county? If
so, specify.
There are wetlands and steep slopes on the site that have been discussed in this
Environmental Checklist.
i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project?
Approximately 1,106 students and 105 staff would occupy the school during the
school day.
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
The project would be phased so that on -site classes would not be impacted. Students
and staff would not be permanently displaced.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any:
There would be no displacement impacts.
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l. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and
projected land uses and plans, if any:
Compatibility of the proposal is measured by consistency with the existing school
uses, adopted comprehensive plan, zoning code, Capital Facilities Plans and
environmental review. The proposal has been designed to provide this consistency as
well as meet the long-range goals of the District.
The site is located within one of the ten geographically distinct community planning
areas, the Benson Planning Area (the eastern boundary of the campus abuts the
Fairwood Planning Area). These areas represent a process where the community
develops a vision and policies that address growth, quality of life, design, and capital
improvements as they affect the Community Planning Area. The addition has been
carefully designed in character to blend with the surrounding community and provides
the needed capital improvements for the site development.
The City of Renton Comprehensive Plan, adopted 2015 (amended 12/10/2015), is the
guide for development within the City and various land use policies related to site
development and schools. The proposal is consistent with the following adopted
comprehensive plan polices (italicized wording is in response to the policies):
Land Use Element
Policy L-30: Maintain or increase the quantity and quality of wetlands. Development
activities shall not decrease the net acreage of existing wetlands.
Policy L-31: Protect buffers along wetlands and surface waters to facilitate
infiltration and maintain stable water temperatures, provide for biological diversity,
reduce amount and velocity of run-off, and provide for wildlife habitat.
Policy L-34: Ensure buildings, roads, and other built features are located on less
sensitive portions of a site when sensitive areas are present.
The proposal would not impact site wetlands, buffers and other sensitive areas.
Transportation Element
Policy T-21: Support vacating streets when they meet the criteria in Renton
Municipal Code, Chapter 14, Vacations.
Policy T-41: Plan for land use densities and mixed-use development patterns that
encourage walking, biking, and transit use in designated areas.
Policy T-44: Ensure adequate transportation facilities are in place at the time of
development approval or that an adopted strategy is in place to provide adequate
facilities within six years.
Policy T-45: Ensure that new development contributes its fair share of the cost of
transportation facilities, programs and services needed to mitigate growth related
transportation impacts.
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The site design includes adequate provisions for staff/visitor parking, 24 bike parking
spaces and bus parking. The transportation mitigation fees are not required since
there would not be an increase in staff or enrollment. Frontage improvements along
128th Avenue SE would be provided as required by the City.
Housing and Human Services Element
Policy HHS-17: Build on collaborative relationships; partner with local agencies and
school districts to increase affordability and availability of early childhood
education, after-school youth engagement opportunities, and preparation for
college/career.
Policy HHS-23: Support the link between land development and physical activity by
increasing options for transit use, walking, and bicycling, such as providing physical
connections between residential areas and schools and/or commercial development.
The District continually works in collaboration with the community and City in
providing a wide range of education services. Provisions for site access to schools is
a key component in developing school site planning and connections to the community.
Utilities Element
Policy U-3: Promote co-location of new utility infrastructure within rights-of-way
and utility corridors, and coordinate construction and replacement of utility systems
with other public infrastructure projects to minimize construction related costs and
disruptions.
Policy U-5: Approval of development should be conditioned on the availability of
adequate utility service and should not result in decreases in local levels of service
for existing development. All new development should be required to pay their fair
share of construction costs for necessary utility system improvements. Policy U-6:
Encourage the use of water and energy conservation technologies to provide utility
services in an environmentally responsible manner.
Policy U-18: Emphasize the use of stormwater management techniques that
maximize water quality and infiltration where appropriate, which will not endanger
groundwater quality.
Policy U-29: Control runoff from new development, redevelopment, and
construction sites through the implementation of development design standards and
construction techniques that promote the use of best management practices to
maintain and improve storm water quality and manage stormwater flow.
Policy U-32: Work to protect surface and groundwater resources from pollutants
entering the storm drainage system.
The project has the infrastructure to support the development of the site with
renovation of existing spaces and new construction. Utilities can be provided with
proper and approved extension of existing services. Consideration of stormwater
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management that provide for water quality and the use of BMPs have been
incorporated into the design.
Capital Facilities Element
Policy CF-5: Individually adopt by reference the most current Capital Facilities Plans
for the Kent School District #415, the Issaquah School District #411, and the Renton
School District #403, and adopt an implementing ordinance establishing a school
impact fees consistent with each District’s adopted Capital Facilities Plan, if the Plan
demonstrates that the facilities are needed to accommodate projected growth.
The 2020 Capital Facilities Plan for the Renton School District has been adopted by
the City and this project is consistent with that plan. This project is part of the 2019
approved Bond. As stated on the District website, the Bond projects were to address
“the need for additional science classrooms through renovation of existing spaces and
new construction. A primary focus in the planning stage is to build equitable learning
spaces at the three high schools, as well as classrooms that will continue to support
rigorous and evolving curricular class offerings. The Science classroom upgrades and
new construction at Hazen, Lindbergh, and Renton High Schools are expected to be
completed in 2023.”
Additionally, SEPA compliance is the responsibility of the District and would be
conducted consistent with SEPA Rules, WAC 197-11 and SEPA, RCW 43.21C and
the District’s SEPA Board Policy.
m. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts to agricultural and forest lands
of long-term commercial significance, if any:
There are no nearby agricultural or forest lands of long-term commercial significance.
9. HOUSING
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether
high, middle, or low-income housing.
Housing would not be included.
b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether
high, middle, or low-income housing.
No housing units are located on the subject site.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
There are no housing impacts; therefore, mitigation measures are not applicable.
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10. AESTHETICS
a. What is the tallest height of any proposed structure(s), not including antennas;
what is the principal exterior building material(s) proposed?
The proposed height of the building addition is approximately 32 feet. The exterior of
the building would be a brick veneer, metal siding, and metal roof.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
No views are anticipated to be obstructed as a result of the proposal. Due to the
placement of the proposed modernization and additions, off-site viewing potential is
minimized. See 3D view sheets, provided as Figure 5 and Figure 6, which depict the
proposed building modifications.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
The exterior of building materials for the addition would be consistent with the
existing school in color and design. Views would be minimally changed with no
aesthetic impacts anticipated.
11. LIGHT AND GLARE
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would
it mainly occur?
Parking and building lighting would be necessary in the early morning and evening
hours. This would be consistent with similar schools in the area and exiting conditions.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with
views?
Lighting from the finished project should not interfere with any views due to the
placement of building and site features, design and direction of lighting fixtures;
therefore, no light or glare from the finished project would pose a safety hazard.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
The main sources of off-site light and glare are from the adjacent roadways’ street
lighting, vehicles traveling along area roads, and the adjacent residential land uses.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any:
All proposed exterior building lighting would be directed downward and shielded to
minimize glare on the nearest properties. Every new fixture on the exterior would be
provided with a motion sensor.
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Site lighting fixtures would be compliant to IES “full cutoff” requirements to minimize
light trespass. Light fixtures would be selected to maximize energy efficiency based
on engineered optical systems and efficient LED sources. Site lighting fixture
placement would optimize lighting to desired areas, and minimize light trespass to
areas off-site. Occupancy sensors would be provided at pole mounted fixtures to
reduce light levels and promote energy efficiency during periods when the area is
unoccupied.
12. RECREATION
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate
vicinity?
The proposed school project is within an area that contains a variety of recreational
opportunities. There are sport facilities on the site as well as a school gymnasium and
Lindbergh Pool. There are also area schools, which contain a variety of recreational
opportunities, available for community use outside of school hours as managed by the
District. Renton Park, which includes a trail system, is south of the school property,
and Fairwood Crest Community Park is nearby to the northeast.
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so,
describe.
There is no displacement of existing recreational uses with the redevelopment
(modernization and additions) of the site.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including
recreation opportunities to be provided by the project or applicant, if any:
There would be no adverse impact to area recreational opportunities due to the project;
therefore, no mitigation measures are proposed. There would be minimal impacts to
the pool access and parking when the south parking lot is being repaved.
13. HISTORIC AND CULTURAL PRESERVATION
a. Are there any buildings, structures, or sites located on or near the site that are
over 45 years old listed in or eligible for listing in national, state, or local
preservation registers? If so, specifically describe:
The school was approved in 1970 and constructed in 1971-1972; therefore, the
buildings are about 50 years old. This school site was documented in the records of
DAHP (Property ID: 709482, 410722, and 410832).
b. Are there any landmarks or evidence of Indian or historic use or occupation?
This may include human burials or old cemeteries. Are there any material
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evidence, artifacts, or areas of cultural importance on or near the site? Please list
any professional studies conducted at the site to identify such resources.
The project site is located in a developed area of the City and not within any designated
historic district. Many area residences and associated outbuildings within the area are
of newer construction and not of historic interest by the State DAHP standard (45 years
or older).
The District requested a DAHP review of the school for the proposal, under DAHP
Project Tracking Code: 2021-12-08567. The DAHP concluded the school may be
eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places based upon one of the
criterion of the NRHP.
c. Describe the methods used to assess the potential impacts to cultural and historic
resources on or near the project site. Examples include consultation with tribes
and the Department of Archeology and Historic Preservation, archaeological
surveys, historic maps, GIS data, etc.
Research was conducted on the web using the Washington Information System for
Architectural and Archaeological Records Data (WISAARD) as well as direct
consultation with the DAHP.
d. Proposed measures to avoid, minimize, or compensate for loss, changes to, and
disturbance to resources. Please include plans for the above and any permits that
may be required.
There are no impacts that would require mitigation measures. Consultation was
conducted with DAHP early in this proposal, an EZ-1 form was submitted, and a
determination letter was received, which concluded the school is eligible for a historic
listing under one of the criteria. The proposed modernization and additions are not
anticipated to impact the integrity of the historic nature of the school. See 3D view
sheets, provided as Figure 5 and Figure 6, which depict the views of the proposed
building modifications for additional details.
14. TRANSPORTATION
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site or affected geographic area,
and describe proposed access to the existing street system. Show on site plans, if
any.
Based on information from the City, the proposed development fronts 128th Avenue
SE along the west property line for a length of approximately 1,100 feet, which is a 2-
lane collector arterial with parking and flush 5’ sidewalks on both sides. 128th Avenue
SE is classified as a Collector Arterial Road. Access and parking lots are shown on
Figure 2 – Aerial Site Parcel Map and detailed on Figure 3 – Site Plan.
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b. Is the site or affected geographic area currently served by public transit? If so,
generally describe. If not, what is the approximate distance to the nearest transit
stop?
King County Metro Transit provides bus service in the vicinity of the project site with
the closest stops, served by Route 148 and Route 102. Route 148 has a stop located
about 0.5-mile northeast of the site at the SE 164th St/128th Ave SE (south of the 128th
Pl SE intersection). There are also stops, served by Route 102, located about 0.7-mile
to the south of the site at the 128th Avenue SE and SE 169th Place.
School bus transportation is provided to non-walkers attending the existing high
school.
c. How many additional parking spaces would the completed project or non-project
proposal have? How many would the project or proposal eliminate?
The existing school site has a total of 338 parking stalls located in five areas - 41 stalls in the
north staff lot, 42 stalls in the northeast staff parking lot, 50 stalls in the visitor and staff
parking lot (including 8 parallel stalls), and 205 stalls in the student parking lot. The project
would include partial resurfacing and restriping within the student parking lot in compliance
with City of Renton Municipal Code (RMP) and slightly reducing supply in that lot to 199
spaces. At project completion, the entire site would have a total of 332 parking spaces.
RMC §4-4-080.F.10.d outlines the parking requirements for a variety of land uses, including
high schools. The City requires a minimum of 1 parking space per employee plus 1 space for
every 10 students. The school has 105 employees and would maintain its capacity of 1,150
students. Based on these values, the City would require a minimum of 220 parking spaces
[105 + (1,150 ÷ 10)]. The planned parking supply would meet City code requirements.
The City code requires 22 bike parking spaces and the site includes 24 spaces.
d. Will the proposal require any new or improvements to existing roads, streets,
pedestrian, bicycle or state transportation facilities, not including driveways? If
so, generally describe (indicate whether public or private).
The City would require frontage improvements and additional right-of-way dedication
to 128th Avenue SE. Related to the frontage, the City has also requested that the
existing street trees, and any significant trees near the parking lot entry drives, remain
in place. To allow the trees to remain the site would have an approximate 16 -foot
landscape buffer next to the street and a 5-foot sidewalk. The City has agreed that the
sidewalk can jog back next to the street to get around the existing PSE-owned
electrical switch on the north end of the frontage. Street lighting would not be
required, but pedestrian lighting would be provided. There are no other changes to
the roadway network proposed.
e. Will the project or proposal use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail,
or air transportation? If so, generally describe.
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While other means of transportation (such as water, rail and air) are available within
the region, the school project would not use other means of transportation.
e. How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed project
or proposal? If known, indicate when peak volumes would occur and what
percentage of the volume would be trucks (such as commercial and nonpassenger
vehicles). What data or transportation models were used to make these
estimates?
As outlined in City’s Traffic Impact Analysis Policy Guidelines for New Development,
the City requires trip generation estimates for development projects be derived using
rates and equations in the most current edition of the Institute of Transportation
Engineers’ [ITE] Trip Generation Manual.1 For High Schools (Land Use Code 525),
the current edition provides rates and equations based on either number of students or
number of employees.
The proposed project involves several elements throughout the building - relocating
administration spaces, counseling and career center, locker room modernization, and
a science classroom modernization and addition. The counseling/career center
relocation would result in the removal of one classroom, while the science addition
would remove one classroom and add four classrooms. The combined project would
result in the net addition of two science labs, which are required to support the changes
to Washington State graduation requirements (increasing from 21 to 24 credits with
one additional science credit). Other changes are to meet ADA or equity standards.
The school’s enrollment capacity is 1,150 students and its current enrollment (as of
fall 2021) is 1,106 students.2 There are currently 105 employees. The proposed
renovation project would not change the school’s enrollment capacity or staffing and
would not result in any new daily or peak hour traffic generation. Therefore, no
additional traffic analysis should be required.
g. Will the proposal interfere with, affect or be affected by the movement of
agricultural and forest products on roads or streets in the area? If so, generally
describe.
The proposal would not interfere with the movement of agricultural and forest
products on the road system.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any:
The proposal would comply with street frontage improvement requirements along
128th Avenue SE as outlined by the City. The District is currently evaluating these
improvements and whether there would be a need for a modification to City standards.
Any modification would require City approval.
1 ITE, 11th Edition, September 2021.
2 Email communication, L. Brent, January 4, 2021.
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The following are other transportation mitigation measures incorporated into the
project:
The District would require the selected contractor to develop a Construction
Management Plan (CMP) that addresses traffic and pedestrian control during school
construction. It should define truck routes, lane closures, walkway closures, and on-
street parking disruptions, as necessary. To the extent possible, the CMP should direct
trucks to arterials and away from residential streets to avoid unnecessary conflicts with
resident and pedestrian activity. The CMP should identify parking locations for the
construction staff; to the extent possible, construction employee parking should be
contained on-site.
In addition to these measures the District would communicate with staff, students and
the community information on proper access to the school and parking for school and
event days.
15. PUBLIC SERVICES
a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for example:
fire protection, police protection, public transit, health care, schools, other)? If
so, generally describe:
The project site is currently served by the City of Renton Police and Fire Departments.
It is anticipated that the proposal would require a similar level of public services as
what is provided to existing area elementary schools.
b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any.
The District would be required to pay Fire impact fees. The fire flow is unchanged
from the existing building. Fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems would be updated for
any walls, ceilings or structures built inside the existing building and extended to all
new building additions. Separate plans and permits would be submitted to the Fire
Department for review and permitting for all system changes and additions.
Fire Department apparatus access roadways and existing on-site fire lanes are adequate
as they exist and would be maintained as they are now.
The District has its own safety policies/drills and staff receives continuing education
and instruction from the District.
16. UTILITIES
a. Circle utilities currently available at the site: electricity , natural gas , water , refuse
service , telephone , sanitary sewer , septic system, other: internet
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All utilities are currently available to the site. Information below was made available
by the City and the civil engineer for the project.
Water: The subject development is within the water service area of Soos Creek Water
and Sewer District. A water availability certificate from Soos Creek Water and Sewer
District would be submitted as part of the Land use Application. There is an 8-inch
water main underneath the proposed addition and is required to be rerouted.
Approximately 130 feet of water main need to be removed and replaced. This would
impact a portion of the asphalt drive at the entryway and the vertical curb. The new
water main would conflict with the existing utility tunnel. Core drilling thru the tunnel
for the new water main would likely be required. The domestic water service for the
renovation of the administration and health center would be from within the existing
building.
Sewer: The subject development is within the water service area of Soos Creek Water
and Sewer District. A sewer availability certificate from Soos Creek Water and Sewer
District would be submitted as a part of the Land Use Application. Sewer service for
the renovation of the administration and health center would be from within the
existing building. Approximately 300 feet of 8 -inch sanitary sewer line would be
removed or abandoned in place where not below structure, and two sanitary sewer
manholes (SSMH) would be removed. The sewer line would be routed around the
new addition requiring approximately 200 feet of 8-inch pipe and five new SSMHs.
There would be a portion of the system that extends from under the existing building
that would be addressed in the plumbing design.
b. Describe the utilities that are proposed for the project, the utility providing the
service, and the general construction activities on the site or in the immediate
vicinity which might be needed.
For utilities that are available to the site, proper sizing/extension would be the
responsibility of the District. All existing and proposed utility lines (i.e., electrical,
phone, cable services, etc.) along property frontage or within the site must be
underground. The construction of these franchise utilities must be inspected and
approved by a City inspector. Electrical and gas service is provided by Puget Sound
Energy. Other utilizes such as phone and cable would be identified through the
building permit process.
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C. SIGNATURE
The above answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I
understand that the lead agency is relying on them to make its decision.
Reviewed by Renton School District No. 403
and Brent Planning Solutions
Signature:
Laura S. Brent, AICP
Environmental/Permitting Consultant for the RSD
Submitted to City of Renton: January 24, 2022
Date Finalized: ___________________
SEPA Environmental Checklist
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Appendix A Renton School District No. 403
Appendix A
Legal Description
Source: Bassetti Architects, Site Review Plan (1/12/2022)