RENTON, Wash. —For years, a site along State Route 169 and the Cedar River was the subject of a heated debate.
In 2017, it was set to host an asphalt plant proposed by Lakeside Industries — a plan fiercely opposed by residents and environmental advocates. The City of Renton and community group Save the Cedar River voiced concerns about noise, traffic, potential contamination, and effects on wetlands and salmon habitats.
In July, King County Council Vice Chair Reagan Dunn and Save the Cedar River came toan agreement with Lakeside Industriesto halt the building of the proposed plant and instead build a warehouse as a less-invasive alternative.
Now, the mood has shifted. On Tuesday, Dunn and fellow councilmembers announced plans to pursue public acquisition and permanent preservation of the property. The goal: make it publicly-owned open space — not another industrial site.
King County and the Flood Control District are proposing a partnership with Lakeside Industries to buy the property for public use.
“Lakeside Industries has indicated to County officials it is interested in working with the County and Flood Control District on a mutually beneficial acquisition of the property,” a news release from the Metropolitan King County Council said.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve this land and ensure that the property can be permanently enjoyed by the public, adjacent communities, and County residents. I want to sincerely thank Lakeside Industries for acting as a good neighbor and conscientious company by opening the door to a purchase,” Dunn said.
The Flood Control District has already identified $5 million in acquisition funds, ordered an appraisal, and is developing a purchase strategy.
If successful, the acquisition would permanently block future industrial development, protect the Cedar River corridor and fish habitat, and connect to nearby open space and trail uses.
트위터 공유: 킹 카운티 시더 리버 부지 영구 보존 추진