HomeMy WebLinkAboutL2ST Seg A echecklist 2015-04-16
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.
A. background
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable:
Lake to Sound Trail, Segment A
2. Name of applicant:
King County Parks
3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person:
Jason Rich, Capital Improvement Project Manager
King Street Center
201 South Jackson, 7th Floor
Seattle, Washington 98104
4. Date checklist prepared:
April 9, 2015
5. Agency requesting checklist:
King County Parks
City of Renton
City of Tukwila
6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
Final design and permitting complete in Fall 2015
Construction start in Spring 2016
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansion, or further activity related to or connected with this proposal? If yes, explain.
Segment A is one segment of the longer Lake to Sound Trail, some of which has been constructed and some of which will be designed in the future. See attached Feasibility Study for additional
information. Each future segment will have independent utility and will undergo separate environmental review.
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been prepared, or will be prepared, directly related to this proposal.
Feasibility Study
Vegetation and Wildlife Discipline Report
Critical Areas Study
Stream Discipline Report
Technical Information Report
Cultural Resources Survey Report (ICF 2011)
Cultural Resource Survey Memorandum for the Amended APE (Aqua Terra 2015)
60-percent Plans
Draft Geotechnical Report
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.
The project is subject to federal funding through Washington State Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration. Previously, approvals had been provided for National
Environmental Policy Act, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. As a result of a project change to add the new trail bridge
over the Black River, the reviews were re-opened. To date, only Section 106 has been completed. The other reviews are pending.
No other applications have been submitted to date. See list in Item 10 below.
10. List any government approvals or permits that will be needed for your proposal, if known.
Shoreline Substantial Development Permits, including critical areas and drainage reviews, from Renton and Tukwila
Shoreline Conditional Use Permit and Variance from Renton
Grading Permits from Renton and Tukwila
Street Use Permits from Renton
General Construction NPDES Permit from Washington Department of Ecology
Hydraulic Project Approval from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
Federal transportation funding triggers:
Documented Categorical Exclusion (National Environmental Policy Act)
National Historic Preservation Act, Section 106 Concurrence
Endangered Species Act, Section 7 Concurrence
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 that ask
you to describe certain aspects of your proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers on this page. (Lead agencies may modify this form to include additional specific information
on project description.)
King County, together with the cities of Renton and Tukwila (Cities), the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), is proposing
to develop a 1.2 mile segment of what will ultimately be the 16-mile Lake to Sound Trail. The 1.2-mile segment is referred to as Segment A of the Lake to Sound Trail, and is also commonly
referred to as the Two Rivers Trail. Segment A extends from Naches Avenue SW, parallel to the railroad tracks north of the Black River Riparian Forest, across Monster Road and under
two railroad bridges to the Green River Trail at the north end of the Starfire Sports Complex in Fort Dent Park (see 60-percent plans).
Segment A, as well as the longer Lake to Sound Trail, is part of a Regional Trail System that provides non motorized, alternative transportation and a recreation corridor for multiple
trail users, including bicyclists, pedestrians, skaters, and others. A goal of the Lake to Sound Trail is to provide non-motorized transportation facilities to economically disadvantaged
communities in southwest King County that have been historically underserved by such facilities.
Once complete, Segment A would become part of a larger planned system that would serve employment and residential centers in South King County and connect to regional trails in Seattle
and the greater Regional Trail System network. Segment A provides a much needed trail connection between the regional growth centers of Renton and Tukwila and safe passage under the
heavy rail lines. In addition to the Green River Trail, Segment A will connect to the Interurban Trail to the south, and in the future to the Cedar River Trail.
The Lake to Sound Trail – Segment A would:
Serve local and regional non-motorized transportation needs and provide access to the trail for local communities.
Help satisfy the regional need for recreational trails and provide safe recreational opportunities to a wide variety of trail users.
Provide a critical link in the regional trails system.
Provide economic and health benefits to communities along the trail.
Segment A is typically approximately 12 feet of asphalt pavement bounded by two 2-foot-wide shoulders and 1 foot-wide clear zones, in accordance with American Association of State Highway
and Transportation Officials’ (AASHTO) guidelines. The project includes:
Constructing a 12-foot-wide asphalt pavement trail with soft-surface (gravel) shoulders
Performing minor grading to construct the trail
Installing a new trail bridge over the Black River to the east of the existing Monster Road Bridge, which cannot be improved to safely accommodate the envisioned trail use
Installing a pedestrian-actuated signal crossing of Monster Road south of the bridge
Constructing an undercrossing feature beneath two railroad bridges to protect trail users from potential falling debris
Building one small retaining wall along the trail and additional walls on the bridge approaches and the Monster Road approach.
Constructing up to two 10-foot by 20-foot pull-out rest areas (one at the northern perimeter of the Black River Riparian Forest and potentially one north of Fort Dent Park)
Installing split-rail fencing and plantings to minimize the potential for disturbance to sensitive wildlife
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.
Segment A is located in Section 13, Township 23 North, Range 4 East, Willamette Meridian. Two parallel railroad tracks (Burlington Northern Santa Fe [BNSF] and Union Pacific) cross the
western quarter of the proposed trail corridor on elevated bridges heading north-south. Another set of BNSF railroad tracks are located north of the eastern three-quarters of the proposed
trail corridor with an east-west bearing. These tracks tie into the north-south tracks north of the project area. East of the railroad bridges, the proposed trail alignment is within
the City of Renton; west of the railroad bridges the proposed trail alignment is within the City of Tukwila. The project area is described from east to west below.
The east terminus is located at a cul-de-sac on Naches Avenue SW near an office park. The eastern three-quarters of the proposed trail alignment from Naches Avenue SW to Monster Road
(approximately 4,300 linear feet) follows an existing gravel maintenance road south of the BNSF east-west railroad tracks and north of the Black River, along the northern perimeter
of the Black River Riparian Forest.
The proposed trail alignment crosses over the Black River using a new bridge for non-motorized use to the east of the existing Monster Road Bridge, then crosses Monster Road south of
the river. For the western quarter of the proposed trail alignment, west of Monster Road, the alignment lies south of the Black River. For the first 150 feet west of Monster Road, the
alignment is on existing paved surfaces, and then it follows a dirt footpath that joins an existing dirt road beneath the railroad bridges for 650 feet. The westernmost 600 feet of
the proposed trail alignment is on maintained lawns associated with Fort Dent Park. West of the railroad bridges, the area south of the proposed trail alignment is dominated by Fort
Dent Park and the Starfire Sports Complex. The confluence of the Black and Green Rivers is located just north of the west end of the Segment A project area. Commercial businesses are
north of the Black River and south of the trail corridor.
B. environmental elements
1. Earth
General description of the site (circle one): Flat, rolling, hilly, steep slopes, mountainous, other:
The project area is generally flat, sloping gently from the east to the west. To the north is a railroad branch line serving the Renton Boeing Plant near the same elevation as the trail;
a gravel mining operation on a steep slope north of the railroad and an apartment complex at the top of the slope at a considerably higher elevation than the project area. Additionally,
there are steeper slopes down from the banks of the Black River, south of the project area, between the Black River Pump Station and
Monster Road.
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
The trail alignment is relatively flat. The steepest slope along the trail is approximately 5% on the approaches to the bridge. Otherwise, the steepest slope on the site is adjacent
to the Black river from the terrace (on which the trail is locate) down to the water level.
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.
The majority of the project area is mapped as Woodinville silt loam. A small portion of the study area (near the northeast most part) is mapped as Tukwila muck. The Woodinville series
consists of deep, poorly drained soils formed in recent alluvium on flood plains and low terraces. The Tukwila series consists of deep, very poorly drained soils formed in organic material
stratified with diatomaceous earth and volcanic ash. Tukwila soils are in depressions on stream terraces and glacial uplands.
Subsurface exploration occurred in the vicinity of the new bridge over the Black River, where the subsurface is underlain by granular soil (fill), over loose alluvium, over medium dense
alluvium, and over Glacial Till or Bedrock. Because the loose alluvium is of geotechnical concern due to earthquake loading conditions, ground improvements will be constructed in the
vicinity of the bridge foundation.
Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the immediate vicinity? If so, describe.
No.
Describe the purpose, type, and approximate quantities of any filling or grading proposed. Indicate source of fill.
Preliminary earthwork quantities indicate approximately 1,500 cubic yards of cut and 3,000 cubic yards of fill, including crushed rock and asphalt, will be necessary. Please note that
cuts and fills within the 100-year floodplain are balanced, with no net fill.
Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If so, generally describe.
In the absence of temporary erosion and sediment controls during construction, exposed earth could erode into adjacent lower lying wetlands, rivers, or the municipal storm sewer system.
Temporary erosion measures consisting of Best Management Practices, will be implemented as outline in Item h below.
About what percent of the site will be covered with impervious surfaces after project construction (for example, asphalt or buildings)?
Development of the trail will result in a total of 2.9 acres of impervious surface, distributed over 1.2 miles and 5 drainage areas. Much of the 2.9 acres is already an existing gravel
maintenance road. Within the 88 acre study area, the trail will total about 3.3 percent of the site.
Proposed measures to reduce or control erosion, or other impacts to the earth, if any:
Construction BMPs may include the following, as appropriate:
Preserving Natural Vegetation (BMP C101)
Buffer Zones (BMP C102)
High Visibility Plastic or Metal Fence (BMP C103)
Stabilized Construction Entrance (BMP C105)
Temporary and Permanent Seeding (BMP C120)
Mulching (BMP C121)
Plastic Covering (BMP C123)
Concrete Handling (BMP C151)
Check Dams (BMP C207)
Outlet Protection (BMP C209)
Storm Drain Inlet Protection (BMP C220)
Silt Fence (BMP C233)
Sediment Trap (BMP C240)
Construction Stormwater Filtration (BMP C251)
Air
What types of emissions to the air would result from the proposal (i.e., dust, automobile, odors, industrial wood smoke) during construction and when the project is completed? If any,
generally describe and give approximate quantities if known.
During construction, air emissions typically include primarily particulate matter (i.e., PM10 and PM2.5) and small amounts of carbon monoxide and oxides of nitrogen from construction
machinery exhaust. The sources of particulates are fugitive dust from diesel exhaust. Temporary increases in particulate emissions may be noticeable if uncontrolled. In addition, temporary
odors from machinery exhaust and paving activities will occur.
Air emissions post-construction at the site are not expected to change from existing conditions. The non motorized trail will not introduce any new activities that would involve air
emissions.
Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect your proposal? If so, generally describe.
Offsite emissions include those from vehicles using the adjacent roadways and from trains operating on the heavy rail lines through the area. None of these emissions should affect the
proposed trail.
Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to air, if any:
During construction, equipment emissions will not exceed state and national air quality standards. Construction BMPs will be implemented to control dust and limit impacts to air quality.
These could include the following:
Wet down dust on site.
Minimize ground disturbances.
Remove excess dirt, dust, and debris from adjacent roadway if necessary.
Maintain construction equipment in good working condition.
3. Water
Surface:
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.
The trail alignment is located within WRIA 9, the Green-Duwamish River basin, and within the regulated buffers of the Black River and Green River. East of Monster Road, the trail alignment
occurs north of the Black River. The trail will cross the Black River via a new non-motorized bridge east of the existing Monster Road bridge. West of Monster Road, the trail runs south
of the Black River to the confluence with the Green River. The trail alignment intersects the Green River at about RM 11.0 on the right bank of the river. According to the WDNR stream
typing system, both rivers are (Type S) streams, designated as shorelines of the state. For additional information, please refer to the attached Stream Discipline Report.
Seven wetlands occur in the project area:
The Wetland 1/2 complex is located west and east of the north end of Naches Avenue SW and north of the Black River, extending outside the study area. The Wetland 1/2 Complex was initially
delineated as two separate wetlands in the field, but after further review of hydrologic conditions and connections, was determined to be one wetland complex. It is a Category II (Ecology
rating), palustrine forested (USFWS classification), riverine/depressional (HGM classification) wetland complex.
Wetland 3 is located north of Wetland 1 and south of the existing gravel maintenance road and BNSF rail tracks. It is a Category IV (Ecology rating), palustrine scrub-shrub/palustrine
emergent (USFWS classification), depressional (HGM classifcation) wetland.
Wetland 4 is located just southwest of Wetland 3 and north of the Wetland 1/2 Complex. It is a Category IV (Ecology rating), palustrine forested (USFWS classification), depressional
(HGM classification) wetland.
Wetland 5 is located north of the existing gravel maintenance road, east of Monster Road and south of the BNSF rail tracks. It is a Category III (Ecology rating), palustrine emergent
(USFWS classification), depressional (HGM classification) wetland.
Wetland 6 is located in the fork of the existing gravel maintenance road west of the Black River Pump Station. It is a Category III (Ecology rating), palustrine emergent (USFWS classification),
depressional (HGM classification) wetland.
Wetland 7 is located south of the existing gravel trail, northeast of the Black River Pump Station, and north of the Black River. It is a Category III (Ecology rating), palustrine emergent/palustrine
forested (USFWS classification), depressional (HGM classification) wetland.
Wetland BR is southeast of the existing gravel trail, east-northeast of the Black River Pump Station, and north of the Black River. It is a Category II (Ecology rating), palustrine forested/palustrin
e emergent (USFWS classification), riverine/depressional (HGM classification) wetland.
See the attached Critical Area Study for more information.
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.
Construction of Segment A would occur within the regulated buffers of both the Green River and the Black River, but no work would occur below the ordinary high water mark of either river.
In almost all cases, the quality of the riparian buffer that would be permanently displaced is low to moderate. Much of the riparian impact area along the Black River consists of grass
or nonnative herbaceous and shrub species. Approximately 51 trees within the regulatory buffer of the Black River in the City of Renton would be removed. Construction of the western
portion of the trail corridor would remove 14 trees within riparian buffers in the City of Tukwila.
The total amount of riparian buffer permanently impacted by trail construction would be 0.73 acre (31,641 square feet). Of this area, 0.13 acre (5,715 square feet) also falls within
wetland buffers and is identified as wetland buffer impacts for regulatory purposes (see below). An additional 0.10 acre (4,455 square feet) of temporary impact to riparian buffers
is anticipated for construction.
The construction impacts include ground improvements in the vicinity of the new bridge, as shown in the 60-percent plans. These improvements would be outside the ordinary high water
mark and no closer than 5 feet of the water level during low summer flows when the improvements would be constructed.
Construction of Segment A would occur within the regulated buffers of four wetlands, but no work would occur within the wetland boundaries. These buffers are generally low-functioning
and are composed primarily of grasses and forbs along the existing maintenance road edge.
A total of approximately 0.49 acre (21,321 square feet) of permanent impact to project area wetland buffers are anticipated as a result of the project. An additional 0.12 acre (5,302
square feet) of temporary impact to wetland buffers is anticipated for construction.
All unavoidable impacts to wetland and stream buffers would be mitigated in accordance with the provisions of the City of Renton Shoreline Master Program (RMC 4-3-090) and City of Tukwila
critical areas regulations (TMC 18.44 and 18.45). Mitigation for wetland and stream buffer impacts would consist of planting or underplanting native trees and shrubs in an area where
existing buffer conditions are degraded. This type of mitigation would offset the project’s impacts on buffer resources by maintaining or enhancing those functions that support water
quality and habitat for fish and wildlife. Proposed enhancements would include removal of invasive vegetation, tilling of soil, addition of organic soil amendments (where needed) and
mulch, and planting of native vegetation.
See the attached plans and Critical Area Study for more information.
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.
No wetlands or streams would be permanently or temporarily filled or graded as a result of the project. All fill to be placed in wetland buffers and stream buffers will come from an
approved off-site location.
4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions? Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
No surface water withdrawals or diversions will be needed for this project.
5) Does the proposal lie within a 100-year floodplain? If so, note location on the site plan.
Yes. Portions of the trail west of Monster Road occur in the 100-year floodplain. Cuts and fills will be balanced to result in no net fill within the floodplain. For additional information,
see the attached Technical Information Report and Critical Areas Study. See attached plans.
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.
No. The trail is a non-pollutant generating surface, and BMPs are expected to prevent hazardous or waste materials from entering the stormwater conveyance system during construction.
Ground:
Will ground water be withdrawn, or will water be discharged to ground water? Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if known.
No groundwater will be withdrawn. Stormwater will be dispersed from the edge of the trail; however, the trail is a non-pollutant generating surface.
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.
No waste material will be discharged into the ground.
c. Water runoff (including stormwater):
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 at the project is limited to rainwater. The trail is exempt from flow control in both the Cities of Renton and Tukwila because the change from the existing land
cover to the proposed land cover does not increase the 100-year peak flow of equal to or more than 0.1 cubic feet per second. However, the trail has been designed to direct stormwater
to the side of the trail for dispersion as sheet flow. Whether by ground or surface water, the stormwater will ultimately flow to the Black River and Green River.
Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so, generally describe.
No. The trail is a non-pollutant generating surface, and BMPs are expected to prevent hazardous or waste materials from entering the stormwater conveyance system during construction.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, and runoff water impacts, if any:
See the construction BMPs identified in Section B.1.h and Section 3.a.2) above. See the attached plans and Critical Area Study for more information
4. Plants
a. Check or circle types of vegetation found on the site:
X deciduous tree: alder, maple, aspen, other: black cottonwood, Pacific willow, Oregon ash
X evergreen tree: fir, cedar, pine, other
X Shrubs: blackberry, salmonberry, hazelnut, red-osier dogwood, red elderberry, snowberry
X Grass: reed canarygrass, upland grasses
pasture
crop or grain
X wet soil plants: cattail, buttercup, bullrush, other
water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
X other types of vegetation: lawn
Please refer to the attached Vegetation and Wildlife Discipline Report for additional information.
b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
The following discussion is summarized from the Vegetation and Wildlife Discipline Report, which uses land cover types based on the structural categories defined by Johnson and O’Neil
(2001).
By locating the trail on an existing maintenance road, the amount of vegetation removal is greatly minimized. Nearly all clearing (approximately 1.8 acre) would occur along the existing
maintenance road, most of which consists of hardened surfaces or non-native plants. Where the trail route falls within areas classified as riparian-wetland habitat, the project footprint
is largely free of native trees
and shrubs that are the characteristic features of that habitat type. Clearing for trail construction would affect approximately 0.9 acre of this land cover type and is not expected
to reduce species diversity or result in a substantial reduction in plant cover in the 88-acre study area. Some low-growing plants would be replaced with hard surfaces, however, and
the overhead canopy may be slightly reduced in some places.
Within the City of Tukwila, approximately 20 trees would be cleared for trail construction. Within the City of Renton, all trees within 10 feet of the paved edge of the trail would be
removed, as would all cottonwood trees within 20 feet of the paved edge of the trail, for the protection of public safety and the trail surface. In total, approximately 129 trees would
be removed within the City of Renton.
c. List threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
The WDNR Natural Heritage Program does not identify any rare plants within or in the vicinity of the project area.
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to preserve or enhance vegetation on the site, if any:
As part of the project, trees will be planted in open areas adjacent to the trail with a line of sight toward the heron rookery (see #5 below). In addition, trees and native plants will
be incorporated in proposed buffer mitigation areas.
5. Animals
a. Circle any birds and animals which have been observed on or near the site or are known to be on or near the site:
birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds, other: pileated woodpecker, osprey, many waterfowl species
mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other: coyotes, raccoons, mice, voles, moles
fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other: Chinook salmon, coho salmon, chum salmon, steelhead, cutthroat trout, bull trout
The park is home to more than 50 species of birds, historically including one of the largest great blue heron colonies in the region. The site is a complex ecosystem with abundant wildlife
habitat. The park is valued for year-round bird watching and nature viewing.
Also: garter snakes, Pacific chorus frogs, and long-toed salamanders
Please refer to the Vegetation and Wildlife Discipline Report for additional information.
b. List any threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
The federally listed species that potentially occur in the project vicinity are bull trout, the Puget Sound evolutionarily significant unit of Chinook salmon, and the Puget Sound distinct
population segment of steelhead.
No ESA-listed or state-listed threatened or endangered wildlife species are known or expected to occur in the study area.
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
Yes. The habitat in the project area is suitable for and used by migratory birds.
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any:
The following measures have been incorporated into the trail design in order to avoid and minimize adverse effects on vegetation and wildlife:
Alignment. The proposed trail follows the perimeter of the Black River Riparian Forest, avoiding habitat fragmentation and disturbance within the central portion of the natural area.
Use of existing disturbed areas. The proposed trail follows existing paths, maintenance roads and disturbed areas to minimize disturbance of adjacent, existing forest, significant trees,
wetlands and buffers, stream buffers, and the species that use these areas.
Strategic widening. In the Black River Riparian Forest, trail widening occurs toward the perimeter, again to avoid the central portion of the natural area and the associated habitat.
Minimizing earthwork. In Fort Dent Park, where the topography is more variable, the trail alignment was selected to follow existing topography to the extent possible and to balance cuts
and fills, reducing the need for retaining walls or large cut or fill areas.
Planting of trees. Where the trail runs adjacent to the Black River Riparian Forest, native trees and shrubs will be planted along the south side of the trail to provide additional visual
screening of the trail from the central portion of the natural area to the south. The plantings would include mature evergreen trees, to offset some of the temporal loss of canopy cover.
As these plants grow taller and more dense, they will reduce the potential for trail use to disturb nesting great blue herons. Plantings will be monitored to ensure establishment and
long-term success.
Fencing. Fencing will be placed on the south side of the trail adjacent to the Black River Riparian Forest in areas that appear inviting to discourage people from accessing the central
portion of the natural area. Other wildlife viewing trails are provided on the south side of the forest. Wayfinding signage at Naches Avenue SW, Oakesdale Avenue SW and Monster Road
will describe the options.
The following measures would be implemented before and during trail construction to avoid or minimize effects on vegetation and wildlife resources:
Limit construction activity to a relatively small area immediately adjacent to the existing cleared area to minimize vegetation clearing and leave as much vegetation undisturbed as possible.
Prepare and implement a revegetation plan that emphasizes the use of native species.
Where the proposed trail alignment runs adjacent to the Black River Riparian Forest, replace cleared trees larger than 6 inches in diameter that occur outside critical area buffers
with new trees at a ratio of 1:1 or greater. If City of Renton regulatory requirements result in a higher replacement ratio, the higher ratio will be used. Some larger evergreen trees
to offset the temporal loss of canopy cover would be included. (Planting for visual screening between the trail and the great blue heron nesting colony [see above] could result in the
planting of more trees than would be needed to meet this requirement.)
To minimize harm to migratory birds, conduct vegetation clearing and construction activities outside the breeding season, which is typically considered to extend from March 15 through
August 31.
Prevent disturbance of nesting great blue herons and their young due to trail construction and other noise-generating activities by implementing the following measure:
Within 1,312 feet of an active colony, conduct activities that are likely to disturb nesting herons outside the courtship and nesting season (i.e., restrictions would apply between January
15 and August 31). Restricted activities would include major earthwork and the use of heavy equipment and backup alarms. Construction activities that employ the use of hand tools would
not be restricted.
If bald eagles construct a new nest within 660 feet of the trail alignment before construction begins, additional measures, such as timing restrictions on construction activities with
the potential to disturb nesting eagles, may be necessary.
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.
Not applicable
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by adjacent properties? If so, generally describe.
No
c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans of this proposal? List other proposed measures to reduce or control energy impacts, if any:
None proposed. The trail offers a nonmotorized transportation alternative.
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.
No
1) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
None
2) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health hazards, if any:
None proposed
b. Noise
1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project (for example: traffic, equipment, operation, other)?
Predominant noise in the project area results from vehicular traffic on adjacent roadways and highways, and from trains on the heavy rail lines through the area.
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.
Long-term noise will be limited to voices of trail users, barking dogs, and bicycle tires. Temporary noise will occur during construction (includes typical equipment such as trucks,
backhoes, compressors, and pumps), but will be relatively short-term.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
Construction activities will be limited to day light hours.
8. Land and shoreline use
What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties?
East of Monster Road, Segment A traverses the northern and eastern perimeter of the Black River Riparian Forest. The Black River Riparian Forest is a 94-acre park facility, managed by
the City of Renton as Open Space. A Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad line parallels the trail to the north. A business park is adjacent to the trail to the east. The existing
gravel road that the trail will follow is used for walking and exercising pets.
Moving west from Monster Road, the trail alignment traverses a secondary driveway for an adjacent business. The driveway occurs within the road right of way. It is gated to allow only
periodic access and would accommodate the trail.
The trail then traverses properties owned by the City of Tukwila, Union Pacific Railroad and BNSF, passing underneath two existing railroad bridges.
At its western terminus, Segment A would connect to the Green River Trail along the northern edge of Fort Dent Park.
b. Has the site been used for agriculture? If so, describe.
No
c. Describe any structures on the site.
East of Monster Road, the only structures are those associated with the Black River Pump Station. West of Monster Road, the only structures are the two railroad bridges and one utility
bridge that cross over the proposed trail corridor.
d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
No
e. What is the current zoning classification of the site?
East of Monster Road, the site is zoned by the City of Renton as Commercial Office (along eastern edge of the Black River Riparian Forest) and Resource Conservation (elsewhere).
West of Monster Road and east of the railroad bridges, site is zoned by the City of Renton as Industrial Light.
West of the railroad bridges, the site is zoned by the City of Tukwila as Low Density Residential.
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
East of the railroad bridges (City of Renton), the comprehensive plan designation is Employment Area – Valley.
West of the railroad bridges (City of Tukwila), the comprehensive plan designation is Low Density Residential.
g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program designation of the site?
The City of Renton designates the Black River reach as a “natural” shoreline environment.
The City of Tukwila designates the Green River and Black River adjacent to Fort Dent Park as “urban conservancy” shoreline environment.
h. Has any part of the site been classified as an "environmentally sensitive" area? If so, specify.
Yes. Critical areas are in the project vicinity. Please refer to Sections 3, 4, and 5 of this checklist, the Wetland Discipline Report, the Stream Discipline Report, and the Vegetation
and Wildlife Discipline Report for additional information.
i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed project?
None
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
None
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any:
None
Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing and projected land uses and plans, if any:
City of Renton
Based on the City’s updated Shoreline Master Program, the trail project must obtain a Shoreline Conditional Use Permit that demonstrates that the trail would accommodate public access
to public open space, while still protecting the natural resources in the area.
Otherwise, City planning documents identify this trail connection specifically as a high priority. More generally, the City’s circulation policy states:
1. Trails within the shoreline should be developed as an element of non-motorized circulation, of the City’s Parks, Recreation and Open Space and Trails and Bicycle Master Plans and
of the Shoreline Public Access program. Trails provide the potential for low impact public physical and visual access to the shoreline.
2. Trails should be developed as an element of a system that link together shoreline public access into an interconnected network including active and passive parks, schools, public
and private open space, native vegetation easements with public access, utility rights of way, waterways, and other opportunities.
3. Public access to and along the water’s edge should be linked with upland community facilities and the comprehensive trails system that provides no-motorized access throughout the
city.
4. A system of trails on separate rights of way and public streets should be designed and implemented to provide linkages along shorelines including the Lake Washington Loop, the Cedar
River, the Black River/Springbrook Creek, and the Green River.
State Recreation & Conservation Office
The Black River Riparian Forest was acquired with a variety of funding sources, including an Urban Wildlife grant from what is now the state Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).
King County consulted with RCO to ensure the consistency of the project with the intent of the grant. RCO confirmed that the grant program encourages public access to wildlife areas,
so the trail is consistent with the grant.
City of Tukwila
As described in the 2008 Tukwila Park, Recreation & Open Space Plan, current access to Fort Dent Park is from Interurban Avenue by Fort Dent Way and by a pedestrian bridge on the north
end for the Green River Trail. The proposed trail would enhance access to Fort Dent Park by providing a trail connection from the east. The proposed trail is consistent with the City
of Tukwila’s 2009 Walk & Roll Plan and is shown as a planned future trail through the park. The proposed trail is also consistent with the City’s updated Shoreline Master Program.
Other Plans
In addition, from 2001 to 2004, the Cascade Bicycle Club undertook an extensive study of bicycling conditions within the Puget Sound Region, including King, Pierce, Snohomish, and Kitsap
Counties. The findings of the study were summarized in a report titled Left by the Side of the Road. This report identified the Two Rivers Trail (an alternative name for Segment A of
the Lake to Sound Trail) as a missing link badly needed in the regional trail network.
Private Properties
King County is coordinating with the railroad companies regarding design features to protect the railroad operations and railroad property. Trail right of way or an easement will be
acquired from the railroad companies following environmental review.
Staff from the City of Renton have been coordinating with the adjacent business regarding the potential effects of the trail on a secondary driveway. The trail is not expected to adversely
affect the business.
9. Housing
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-income housing.
None
b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate whether high, middle, or low-income housing.
None
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
None
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?
BNSF has requested that the trail potentially be covered within 30 feet of the overhead railroad bridge to prevent debris from falling on trail users. If required, the cover will be
12 to 14 feet above the trail for vertical clearance, but must clear and cannot impede inspection of the railroad bridge above. The railings for the new bridge for non-motorized use
to the east of the existing Monster Road Bridge would be approximately 4 feet above the trail surface. The entire structure is designed to be 7 feet in height.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
The trail alignment is not adjacent to residential uses and abuts only a few business uses. Within the two parks, vegetation removal may affect the views of park users. However, the
amount of removal has been minimized, as described in #5 above.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
Any new planting of shrubs/trees/groundcovers will be selected and laid out to enhance trail integration into surrounding landscape.
11. Light and glare
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of day would it mainly occur?
The new signalized crossing of Monster Road will be illuminated. The illumination will be comparable to other roadway lighting in the area. The remainder of the trail will not be illuminated
as trail use is intended for dawn to dusk.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or interfere with views?
No
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your proposal?
No existing off-site sources of light or glare will affect the trail.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if any:
None
12. Recreation
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the immediate vicinity?
The Black River Riparian Forest is a 94-acre park facility owned and managed by the City of Renton. The park is valued for year-round bird watching and nature viewing. The trail alignment
is currently the location of a maintenance access road, used by walkers.
Fort Dent Park is approximately 54 acres and has soccer fields, a playground, a picnic area, restrooms, trails, and open areas. Fort Dent Park includes the Starfire Sports Complex, which
is a private concession providing indoor fields and activities.
The proposed trail connects directly to the Green River Trail and indirectly to the Interurban Trail and Cedar River Trail.
b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses? If so, describe.
No
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation, including recreation opportunities to be provided by the project or applicant, if any:
None
13. Historic and cultural preservation
a. Are there any places or objects listed on, or proposed for, national, state, or local preservation registers known to be on or next to the site? If so, generally describe.
Yes. The White Lake site (45K1438) is located on the south bank of the Black River at its confluence with the Green River. Comprising two loci (45KI438 and 45KI438A), it is listed in
the NRHP under criterion D for its potential to yield information important to prehistory. Data sets from the White Lake site provide necessary information in developing an understanding
of the hunter-gather-fisher settlement subsistence pattern in the Green River-Duwamish Valley. Additional information is provided in the project’s Cultural Resources Survey Report.
While the proposed trail alignment traverses the boundaries of this site, a cultural resource survey found no evidence of the archaeological site was identified during field shovel probes.
b. Generally describe any landmarks or evidence of historic, archaeological, scientific, or cultural importance known to be on or next to the site.
Although no historic properties were found in the APE, the western portion of the project area is nonetheless considered sensitive for the presence of precontact archaeological resources
because of the nearby presence of 45KI438 and known ethnographic villages.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts, if any:
Excavation to construct the trail within archaeological site boundaries has been minimized and will not exceed 9 to 12 inches.
14. Transportation
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site, and describe proposed access to the existing street system. Show on site plans, if any.
As shown on the vicinity map and site plans, the trail connects to Naches Avenue at its eastern terminus and crosses Monster Road.
b. Is site currently served by public transit? If not, what is the approximate distance to the nearest transit stop?
The area is not well served by public transit:
Metro Transit route #150 serves Interurban Ave S. to the west.
Metro Transit route #140 connects at Grady Way and Powell.
Sound Transit routes #566 and 560 connect at Rainier Ave S and SW 7th St.
c. How many parking spaces would the completed project have? How many would the project eliminate?
The project would neither provide nor eliminate parking. Trail users will be able to park at Fort Dent Park to access the trail.
d. Will the proposal require any new roads or streets, or improvements to existing roads or streets, not including driveways? If so, generally describe (indicate whether public or
private).
The proposal will construct a new signalized crossing of Monster Road south of the bridge.
e. Will the project use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water, rail, or air transportation? If so, generally describe.
Yes. The trail will cross under two existing railroad bridges west of Monster Road. The trail will also parallel an east-west BNSF line north of the Black River Riparian Forest.
f. How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed project? If known, indicate when peak volumes would occur.
No motor vehicle trips per day would be generated by the completed project. Persons using the trail are primarily expected to walk from residences or places of employment or to use existing
facilities such as Fort Dent Park.
g. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any:
Completion of the proposed trail could result in reduction in the number of motor vehicles and bicycles using the roadways by transitioning some drivers into bicyclists or pedestrians
using the trail.
15. Public services
a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for example: fire protection, police protection, health care, schools, other)? If so, generally describe.
No
b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public services, if any.
None proposed.
16. Utilities
a. Circle utilities currently available at the site: electricity, natural gas, water, refuse serv-
ice, telephone, sanitary sewer, septic system, other.
The areas through which the alignment traverses are not served by utilities but numerous utilities cross the alignment. These utility crossings include telephone, stormwater, gas, sewer,
electricity, and water.
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.
The new pedestrian-actuated signal and illumination will require electricity.
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.
Signature: __________________________________________
Date Submitted: April 17, 2015