MOUNT BAKER TOWN CENTER Urban Design Framework

October 2011

CONTENTS

CONTENTS Introducti on ...... 4 Mount Baker Town Center – The Vision ...... 5 Mount Baker Town Center - Today ...... 7 Achieving the Vision ...... 8 Recommendati ons...... 11 Land Use and Built Form ...... 12 Circulati on ...... 15 Streetscape Concepts for the Town Center ...... 18 Open Space and Gateways ...... 20 Sustainable Strategies ...... 23 Implementati on ...... 24 Zoning ...... 24 Development Capacity ...... 24 Sustainable Development ...... 26 Analyses Requested by City Council ...... 27 Other Implementati on Resources ...... 27 Summary of Acti ons ...... 29 Acknowledgements ...... 31 Appendices ...... 32

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1 Opportuniti es ...... 9 Figure 2 Concept Plan for the Town Center ...... 10 Figure 3 Proposed Building Height ...... 14 Figure 4 Proposed Circulati on Concept ...... 17 Figure 5 Proposed Open Space and Gateways ...... 21 Figure 6 Proposed Zoning ...... 25

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 3 Seattle Department of Planning and Development INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

Since 1999, many members of the North Rainier community worked together to create the vision for the Mount Baker Town Center through a series of planning processes beginning with the North Rainier Neighborhood Plan (February 1999). A recent update to the plan (January 2010) identi fi ed a need to look more closely at the Town Center. The purpose of this Urban Design Framework is to guide the future work and investment of the community, developers and the City to make Concept from 1999 that vision a reality. It identi fi es the existi ng conditi ons and Neighborhood Plan. specifi c planning and design strategies necessary to achieve the community’s vision.

The Urban Design Framework focuses on the area referred to in previous plans as the North Rainier Town Center, the North Rainier Town Center and the McClellan Stati on Area Overlay District, a special zone to encourage the development of a diverse, mixed-use community with a pedestrian orientati on close to transit. The City intends to change the name of the zoning district surrounding the Mount Baker stati on to the Mount baker Stati on Area Overlay District. For the purposes of this Urban Design Framework, the Town Center and the Mount Baker Stati on Area Overlay District are considered the same area. Community members at a North Rainier planning workshop.

2010 Neighborhood Plan Update.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 4 Seattle Department of Planning and Development INTRODUCTION

Mount Baker Town Center – The Vision

The North Rainier Neighborhood Plan, adopted by City Council through ordinance number 119671, envisions “an interweaving of people of various backgrounds who live and work in a culturally and economically diverse area… The retail core is strong and sti ll maintains its ethnic roots. Business, light industrial, and high-tech job opportuniti es provide welcome employment for the enti re Puget Sound region.” It goes on to say:

Claremont apartments on Rainier “The Town Center is envisioned as the heart of the Avenue S. neighborhood, the place where people will gather, shop, stroll and enjoy community life. It will be the locati on where the greatest commercial and mixed-use density will occur, where transit connects people to the region, and where public places and open spaces help create a sense of identi ty and welcome. The increased density will support a safe environment from the volume of people engaged in a mix of acti viti es.

To create a thriving, safe, att racti ve, pedestrian- and transit- friendly residenti al/commercial center which serves as a gateway to Southeast Seatt le; supports the residents and businesses currently in Southeast Seatt le; and reﬂ ects/ supports the cultural and economic diversity of Rainier Valley.

“A Town Center that concentrates housing, commercial uses, services and living-wage employment opportuniti es; that is LINK Light Rail Stati on. © well served by transit and non-motorized travel opti ons; and liltnemo via Flickr. that is well designed and att racti ve to pedestrians.

A vibrant business district that serves North Rainier residents and is a desti nati on shopping area with stores that serve the greater Rainier Valley.”

Mount Baker Park Beach. A Vibrant Walkable Town Center. © Seatt le.roamer via Flickr.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 5 Seattle Department of Planning and Development INTRODUCTION

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Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 6 Seattle Department of Planning and Development INTRODUCTION

Mount Baker Town Center - Today

The Mount Baker Town Center lies at the north end of the fl oor of the Rainier Valley, south of I-90 and just three miles south of downtown Seatt le. It is surrounded by the primarily single family neighborhoods of Beacon Hill and Mount Baker. LINK Light Rail Stati on lies at the confl uence of two major roadways, Rainier Avenue S. and Marti n Luther King Jr. Way S. (MLK Jr. Way S.). Each of these arterials carries over 30,000 average vehicle trips per day. Two historic Olmsted boulevards, Cheasty Boulevard S. and Mount Baker Boulevard S., converge but do not connect at this locati on, but link the Town Center to signifi cant open spaces and recreati onal resources. Existi ng “auto-oriented” patt ern Historically, the area has been a hub of commercial acti vity. The of streets and buildings. commercial core of the neighborhood is currently characterized by a number of auto-oriented businesses and older strip development. It is surrounded by more sparsely developed residenti al and open space areas, and is bounded to the west by the steeply-sloped Cheasty Greenbelt.

View of the Cascades from McClellan and 24th.

View north towards downtown Seatt le. Franklin High School.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 7 Seattle Department of Planning and Development INTRODUCTION

Achieving the Vision

In May 2010, North Rainier community members formed a Town Center Acti on Team to assist in the implementati on of goals, strategies and acti ons identi ﬁ ed in the North Rainier Neighborhood Plan. In September 2010, this team met to further deﬁ ne the details and generate ideas on how to change the physical form of the neighborhood to make the Town Center more vital, walkable and economically successful. This Town Center Acti on Team. document, the result of those discussions, is a blueprint for cementi ng community goals, coordinati ng private and public acti on, and prioriti zing capital investment decisions.

Some of the “big moves” or opportuniti es to create a vibrant, mixed-use Town Center are highlighted in Figure 1 and listed below. Many of these opportuniti es are supported by the existi ng zoning, but some will require changes. (see Figure 1)

Create a “main street” shopping district on Rainier Avenue S. and S. McClellan Street (Figure 1 - yellow area).

Create a walkable, bikable Town Center with a complete network of sidewalks and bicycle infrastructure.

Reinforce the identity of the Town Center with gateways An example of new development and landmarks. with greenspace amenity. Catalyze change with the redevelopment of opportunity sites, especially those fronti ng the prime retail corner (Figure 1 - orange circle).

Leverage light rail to create a transit accessible shopping desti nati on for the greater Rainier Valley.

Connect the Town Center to neighborhoods and open spaces with complete streets, historic boulevards and uphill pedestrian connecti ons.

LINK Light Rail has improved access to and from the Town Center. © Oran Viriyincy via Flickr.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 8 Seattle Department of Planning and Development INTRODUCTION

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Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 9 Seattle Department of Planning and Development INTRODUCTION Figure 2 – Concept Plan for the Town Center

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60W%DNHU%OYG 6 The transformati on of the Town Center will occur incrementally over a long period of ti me. Figure 2 represents one illustrati on of how these ideas might play out through public and private investment. It shows how large building footprints and surface parking can be replaced with a more human-scaled development and public realm improvements. The Urban Design Framework recommendati ons that follow will elaborate on these big ideas and set the stage for new development over ti me. More detailed “design guidelines,” sti ll to be developed, will guide future private development proposals. Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 10 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

RECOMMENDATIONS

The community’s ideas for a vibrant Town Center are captured in the North Rainier Neighborhood Plan. The following Urban Design Framework recommendati ons reﬂ ect a reﬁ nement of those ideas. The community’s vision for the Town Center incorporates many of the fundamental urban design principles used to make good streets and vibrant urban places—an interesti ng mix of retail uses along the street, multi ple opti ons for getti ng around, human-scaled buildings, streets and sidewalks, well designed streetscapes and public space, and a strong local identi ty. A good urban place is where you want to Retail with weather protecti on stop, get out of your car and walk around because it’s att racti ve, for pedestrians. interesti ng and buzzing with acti vity.

The Urban Design Framework recommendati ons are organized as follows: • Land Use and Built Form • Circulati on • Streetscapes • Open Space and Gateways • Sustainable Strategies

The ﬁ nal secti on, Implementati on, includes a summary of how Urban Design Framework recommendati ons can be implemented through zoning changes and other tools. A sharrow—a lane shared by car and bikes.

Bio-swale in the High Point neighborhood.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 11 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

Land Use and Built Form

Existi ng

The current patt ern of land use and built form of the Town Center exhibits a suburban character—auto-oriented, single- story commercial buildings set on large blocks with deep Lowe’s is the largest setbacks and parking between buildings and the sidewalk. As opportunity site. a retail and service desti nati on, it draws people who patronize both independent, culturally diverse businesses, as well as chain stores. Service retail and light industrial uses, an important source of local jobs, are scatt ered among the retail stores. Insti tuti onal and public uses, such as LINK Light Rail Stati on, the Transit Center and Franklin High School, generate pedestrian traﬃ c. Existi ng open space within the Town Center is limited the steeply-sloped Cheasty Greenbelt and LINK Light Rail Stati on plaza.

Recommendati ons

Creati ng a vibrant Town Center will require a signiﬁ cant change in land use and urban form. Proposed zoning, over ti me will allow auto-oriented commercial will give way to a richer mix of uses while retaining existi ng light industrial uses. Built form will become more urban—conti nuous street walls, taller buildings built to the sidewalk. These changes will bring more people and urban vitality to the Town Center. A supermarket designed for a pedestrian-oriented urban street. • Main Street Retail — Focus pedestrian-oriented “main street” retail on Rainier Avenue S. and S. McClellan Street to create a place for shopping and eati ng, and meeti ng friends and neighbors. • Single Family — Transiti on selected parcels of existi ng single-family residenti al uses adjacent to the Town Center to multi family residenti al or mixed-use development. • Opportunity Sites — Encourage redevelopment of “opportunity sites” (e.g. Lowe’s and QFC) to mixed-use development that includes a high quality pedestrian environment, retains existi ng retail uses, but also includes some aﬀ ordable places to live and run a business.

Open space as part of new commercial development.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 12 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

• Outdoor Retail — Develop an open air, multi cultural market at the stati on or in new open space, to provide aﬀ ordable commercial space and enliven public space. The market could be designed with stalls or mobile carts that are driven away at the end of each day. • Building Height — In general, increase allowable height from 65 feet to 125 feet on sites fronti ng Rainier Avenue S. where the community has determined additi onal height is acceptable. (See Zoning p.22 for more detail.) Example of a mixed-use building with Upper Level setback. • Building Setbacks and Massing — In general, establish upper level setbacks along Rainier Avenue S. and S. McClellan Street to preserve the views to Mount Rainier and provide more light and air. Larger setbacks may be desired in some locati ons to maximize sun in new open space.

A unique bike rack as part of the streetscape.

Use mobile vending units (vending carts and delivery vans) to provide goods and services for which there might not be enough demand to support a freestanding business and to augment in-store sales.

—Retail Development Strategy for Rainier Valley, December 2009

Mobile Street Vending

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 13 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

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02125 50500 Proposed Building Height Feet Height Increase 85/125 feet 65 feet No warranties of any sort, including accuracy, fitness, or merchantability accompany this product. Copyright 2011, All Rights Reserved, City of Seattle 85 feet 35-40 feet Prepared September 28, 2011 by DPD-GIS

Figure 3 – Proposed Building Height

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 14 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

Circulati on

Existi ng

The Town Center is intersected by three arterials (Rainier Avenue S., MLK Jr. Way S. and S. McClellan Street) that carry high volumes of traffi c. Rainier Avenue S., also State Road 167, carries the largest volume of traffi c. The designated “major truck street” to transport freight through the area includes porti ons of Rainier Avenue S. and MLK Jr. Way S. These two arterials intersect at an odd angle making it diffi cult for pedestrians to cross safely, and providing a poor level of service for vehicles. Two historic Olmsted boulevards—Cheasty Boulevard S. and Mount Baker Boulevard S.—were designed to connect, but are The intersecti on of Rainier interrupted by this intersecti on. Avenue S. and MLK Jr. Way S. is challenging for pedestrians. In general, many elements that support a good walking or biking environment are lacking— things like wide sidewalks, short pedestrian crossings, street trees, buff ers, bike lanes or sharrows. A pedestrian bridge, constructed to improve safety, is only lightly used. Connecti vity between Beacon Hill and the Town Center is constrained by the steep topography—only S. McClellan Street connects down the slope. Ample transit in the Town Center—light rail and buses—connects residents and businesses to other Rainier Valley communiti es and downtown Seatt le. The Town Center is also a transit transfer point, and many commuters must cross busy Rainier Avenue S. to make connecti ons. However, pedestrian crossings along Rainier Avenue S. are too far apart, especially near the Light Rail Stati on and the Transit Center. Pedestrian bridge at the intersecti on of MLK Jr. Way S. and Rainier Avenue S.

LINK Light Rail has improved access to and from the Town Center. © Oran Viriyincy via Flickr.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 15 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommendati ons

Creati ng a vibrant, walkable Town Center requires retroﬁ tti ng the auto-focused arterials into streets that accommodate all users — complete streets. One promising opti on, the “Bowti e Traﬃ c Concept”, would change Rainier Ave S. and MLK Way Jr. Way S. (between S. Bayview Street and S. Bryon Street) from two-way streets to one-way streets, a move that would make room for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.

Accommodate all travel modes on arterials. Conti nue to evaluate the “Bowti e Traﬃ c Concept” —a one-way street couplet that accommodates bikes and pedestrians, eliminates the skewed Example of an improved intersecti on, and allows Cheasty Boulevard S. and Mount Baker pedestrian connecti on uphill. Boulevard S. to connect. Pedestrian crossings along Rainier Avenue S. become easier, especially near the stati on. This concept will require additi onal analysis, comparison with other opti ons in discussion with the community, businesses and property owners.

Provide bicycle infrastructure. Implement the recommendati ons of the Seatt le Bicycle Master Plan to add new bicycle infrastructure (lanes, sharrows, signage) within the Town Center that is part of the citywide bicycle route system.

Make the sidewalk network complete and safe. Widen A traffi c calming curb bulb sidewalks on the three major arterials to 9 to 12 feet. Implement narrows the right-of-way at the recommendati ons of the Seatt le Pedestrian Master Plan and intersecti ons. the Southeast Seatt le Transportati on Study—fi ll gaps, widen, add buff ers, remove obstructi ons, use curb bulbs, medians, pavement markings to allow pedestrians to move along and across arterials safely.

Analyze the feasibility of installing mid-block pedestrian crossings where blocks are long. Use mid-block crossings to connect LINK Light Rail Stati on and the Transit Center, and break down the scale of large blocks. Insert mid-block pathways as large blocks are redeveloped.

Increase pedestrian connecti ons uphill. Give adjacent communiti es increased access to local businesses and transit in the Town Center. New or improved steps or pathways are recommended for the street ends at S. Lander Street and S. Hanford Street.

Green bike lane and bike box See the following secti on, Streetscape Concepts, for additi onal and make intersecti ons safer. complementary recommendati ons related to the design of streets.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 16 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

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Figure 4 – Proposed Circulati on Concept

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 17 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

Streetscape Concepts for the Town Center

Existi ng

Streetscape refers to the physical design of the public realm – the space between buildings. It includes not only the road, but also the adjacent sidewalk areas. The current streetscape of arterial roads lacks some elements that support a good pedestrian environment—things like conti nuous and comfortably-wide sidewalks, short and safe crossings, buff ers This streetscape is designed with between sidewalks and traffi c. pervious paving, street trees and other planti ng—types of green Recommendati ons stormwater infrastructure. Streetscape recommendati ons focus on the three arterial streets—Rainier Avenue S., MLK Jr. Way S. and S. McClellan Street. The streetscape concepts illustrated below align with the “Bowti e Traffi c Concept” (see page 14). Elements emphasize pedestrian comfort and safety such as pedestrian lighti ng, directi onal signage, landscaping, overhead weather protecti on, and improved crosswalks with curb bulbs for safer and shorter crossings. On- street parking helps buff er pedestrians from traffi c. Audible signals and special paving could be integrated into the streetscape Streetscapes that include wide design to assist members of the Lighthouse community and sidewalks, small retail bays, awnings, and street trees mobility impaired pedestrians. encourage walking.

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Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 18 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

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Rainier Avenue S. (from S. Bayview Street to S. Walden Street) is reconﬁ gured with three one- way travel lanes, one parking lane, wider sidewalks, street trees, landscaped curb bulbs, a shared roadway for bicyclists and a dedicated northbound bus lane, but further study of these concepts is required. Should the Transit Center relocate, the bus lane could be converted to accommodate a separated two-way cycle track.

Walking conditi ons along and across streets with high traﬃ c volumes and high speeds are uncomfortable, especially locati ons that have long blocks and auto-oriented development.

—Seatt le Pedestrian Master Plan

S. McClellan Street (from MLK Jr. Way S. to S. 25th Street) is reconﬁ gured with two travel lanes with sharrows, two parking lanes, wider sidewalks, and street trees. A central lane would be designed to include left turning pockets and potenti ally a landscaped median or other gateway feature.

S. Winthrop Street, a connector between Mount Baker Boulevard S. and Cheasty Boulevard S., is enhanced to have the disti ncti ve lushly landscaped character of a historic Olmsted boulevard. Bicycles are accommodated within shared roadways with special signage as part of the citywide bicycle route.

See the following secti on Open Space and Gateways for additi onal recommendati ons related to the public realm.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 19 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

Open Space and Gateways

Existi ng

The current open space system is described as a “ring of green” surrounding the Town Center—the Cheasty Greenbelt, the Olmsted Boulevards and the slopes along the east side of MLK Jr. Way S. The LINK Light Rail Stati on includes a large plaza that leads to Rainier Avenue S. Other larger community and regional open spaces, such as MLK Jr. Park and Mount Baker Park, lie beyond the Town Center.

Cheasty Boulevard S. Of the Southeast Sector’s ﬁ ve urban villages, the North Rainier Hub Urban Village has the largest gaps in Usable Open Space with over half of the urban village located farther than 1/8 mile from park sites.

—Open Space Gap Report

Recommendati ons (See Figure 5)

The community desires open spaces that invite people to gather and encourage physical acti vity. Future development and infrastructure improvements can improve access to open space and bring new greenspace to the core. Access to the Cheasty Greenbelt and other parks can be improved through new pathways, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. Gateways and landmarks—highly visible landscape or structural features— Public art can be a neighborhood landmark. can enhance the identi ty and express civic pride of the Town

Mobile vendors could animate the stati on plaza. A mid-block open space is part of new development.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 20 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

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Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 21 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

Center by announcing arrival in a disti nct special place. Signage, structures, lighti ng, landscaping, banners and even buildings can create gateways or landmarks.

• Create new open space in the core. Use new developments and public improvements to increase greenspace within the Town Center. Redevelopment of the 13-acre Lowe’s site, the largest opportunity site, should include an open space and pathways system that can break down this large block into a more pedestrian friendly form. • Animate and enhance the stati on plaza. The stati on plaza is an A civic space for informal underuti lized open space. Furnishings (e.g. movable tables and gatherings. chairs), and acti ve uses (mobile vending) could transform this space into a community gathering place. Mobile vending would not only enliven the space, but could help existi ng businesses expand, or provide an aﬀ ordable way to launch a new business. • Establish gateways. Major gateways are recommended for Rainier Avenue S. near S. Bayview Street and S. Walden Street. Minor gateways are recommended for S. McClellan Street near S. 25th Street and S. 30th Street. • Establish an iconic landmark. The prominent intersecti on Rainier Avenue S. and MLK Jr. Way S. calls for an iconic civic landmark to strengthen the identi ty of the not only the Town Center, but the enti re Rainier Valley community. The design will beneﬁ t from broad community input to ensure Example of gateway within a the landmark is memorable, meaningful and a source of civic road right-of-way. pride.

New pathways that are part of redevelopment can break down large and long blocks to a pedestrian friendly scale. An example of a civic gathering space.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 22 Seattle Department of Planning and Development RECOMMENDATIONS

Sustainable Strategies

The North Rainier Neighborhood Plan aﬃ rmed a commitment to creati ng a community that is socially, economically and environmentally sustainable. Environmental sustainability is implicit in the previous recommendati ons for urban form, land use, circulati on, streetscapes, and open space. With ample opportunity to walk, bike, and take transit current and future residents of the Town Center will live a more sustainable life. Planti ngs on a roof deck absorb Research by the US Environmental Protecti on agency found that stormwater and enhance a residents of compact walkable neighborhoods consume half the shared open space. © William Wright Photography energy of those who live in conventi onal suburbs. Additi onal sustainable strategies can help build an even more sustainable Town Center by integrati ng green stormwater infrastructure and green building technology to the extent feasible.

Green Stormwater Infrastructure refers to landscapes that are designed speciﬁ cally to absorb and manage stormwater— bioretenti on planti ngs, permeable paving, green roofs, and rainwater harvesti ng. These practi ces keep urban runoﬀ out of storm drains and overloaded combined sewers, and help improve Seatt le’s water quality and aquati c habitat. In additi on to their functi onal role, green stormwater infrastructure can be designed as an open space amenity adding interest and beauty to streets and public spaces. The new Stormwater Code requires Green Stormwater Infrastructure to the “maximum extent feasible” for new projects throughout the city including the Mount Baker Town Center. A green roof tops the new Ballard Library. Green stormwater infrastructure should be integrated into the design of future streetscapes (medians, curb bulbs, curbside planti ng strips, pavement, historic boulevard landscapes) and open space (parks, plazas, pedestrian connecti ons). These practi ces should be considered on a site-by-site basis in all new development— buildings, streets, trails and open space. More informati on at www.seatt le.gov/uti l/About_SPU/Drainage_&_ Sewer_System/GreenStormwaterInfrastructure/index.htm

Green Building Technology refers to an array of strategies that result in a building that uses sustainable materials and is highly energy and water eﬃ cient. The City has a several incenti ve programs to encourage green building technology (see Sustainable Development, page 24). Green stormwater infrastructure can be designed to provide informal seati ng.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 23 Seattle Department of Planning and Development IMPLEMENTATION

IMPLEMENTATION

Implementati on refers to the next steps— Use Seatt le Mixed Zoning – The initi al the policies, regulati ons, programs and strategy, included in the Draft Urban Design resources that the City can use to act on Framework, recommended a shift to mostly recommendati ons. The Urban Design Neighborhood Commercial 3 (NC3) zone Framework considered a number of with building heights as high as 125 feet. implementati on tools to require or encourage Subsequent discussion and analyses led to the desired physical form and land uses within a diﬀ erent recommendati on, the use of the the Town Center. more ﬂ exible Seatt le Mixed (SM) zone, and heights of 85 and 125 for key parcels fronti ng Zoning Rainier Avenue S.

Existi ng Both NC3 and SM encourage street acti vati ng retail uses and transparent facades, and The Town Center currently includes a mix of discourage auto-oriented retail and services. commercial, neighborhood commercial, lowrise Both zones allow building heights of 125 residenti al and two special districts (Stati on feet. The maximum fl oor area rati o (FAR) for Area Overlay District, Pedestrian Designati on) SM 125 is 4.5 versus 6.0 for NC3 125. SM is a that aff ect land use, building types, street-level bett er fi t for North Rainier due to its fl exibility uses and design, and parking locati on and to accommodate some manufacturing. This access. See Appendix A for a brief descripti on of will encourage some existi ng businesses these zones and districts. to remain and potenti ally expand, and will positi on North Rainier to att ract cutti ng Recommendati ons edge businesses whose space needs are sti ll evolving. Also, SM prohibits surface parking The North Rainier Neighborhood Plan lots as a primary use. This ensures that recommends “rezoning key opportunity sites valuable land in the Town Center will never be to encourage the redevelopment of parcels converted to commuter parking. surrounding the light rail stati on in a manner that incorporates housing, commercial Increase Height — Increase the allowable services (such as a grocery store and small heights in the NC and SM zones as shown in businesses) and ameniti es.” The community Figure 3. These changes will allow more dense acknowledged commercial zoning was not mixed-use and residenti al development. The appropriate, and considered zones and resulti ng development could acti vate the street building heights that would help transiti on the with street-level retail and house a criti cal mass current auto-oriented commercial corridor of people to live, work or shop in the Town to a walkable, vital mixed-use Town Center. Center. A detailed descripti on and analysis of rezone recommendati ons are contained in the Rezone Select Parcels to Be Consistent with Director’s Analysis and Recommendati on on Adjacent Zones and Properti es — Two areas the Mount Baker Rezone Proposal. have been identi fi ed for zoning changes

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 24 Seattle Department of Planning and Development IMPLEMENTATION

C2-65 C1-65 S BAYVIEW ST Rezone NC3-65 Rezone NC3-65 to SM-125 (5.75) to SM-85 (5.75)

S WAITE ST NC3-65 LR3

30TH AVE S

Rezone C2-65 S LANDER ST to SM-125 (5.75)

22ND AVE S Rezone SF 5000 to SM/R-65 (.75) 31ST AVE S C2-65 32ND AVE S

NC3P-65 29TH S AVE NC1-40 S MCCLELLAN ST

Rezone NC3P-65 23RD AVE S to SM-85 (5.75) SF 5000

S FOREST ST 26TH AVE S HARRIS S PL LR2

Rezone LR3 25TH AVE S to SM/R-65 (2.0) LR3

C1-65 27TH AVE S

RAINIER BA T KER Rezone C1-65 B L UN V to SM-85 (5.75) O D M NC3-65 AVE S

S WINTHROP ST S Rezone NC3-65 NC3-65 to SM-85 (5.75) LR2 RC LR3 RC SHANFORD ST MCCLINT

WE LR1 O C TMORE AVE S K A

NC3-65 T V S E S

MORSE AVE S

S BYRON SF 5000 Rezone NC3-65 NC3-65 to NC3P-85 (5.75) CLAREMONT LR2 GALE PL S

S HINDSS T NC3-40 ST

S A LR3 VE S D

24TH AVE S V S WALDEN

B S D C1-40 E TY C1-65 L

S L A A

S SPOKANE ST E Rezone SF 5000 S

H T ESTELLE ST C to LR3 (0.75) S

Y PL S SF 5000 C2-65

THON

AN S COURT ST

Station Area Overlay District Boundary

Proposed Change to Station Area Overlay 0 175 350 District Boundary Rezone Area Feet

Figure 6 – Proposed Zoning

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 25 Seattle Department of Planning and Development IMPLEMENTATION supported by existi ng property owners. designed to increase the quanti ty and quality • Single family parcels located between 24th of planted areas in Seatt le while allowing Avenue S. and 25th Avenue S. to SM/R ﬂ exibility for developers and designers to with a 65 foot height limit. The proposed meet development standards. It currently designati on is more consistent with the applies to new development in commercial surrounding LR2 and proposed SM zones. and neighborhood commercial zones outside The boundary of the Stati on Area Overlay of downtown, and multi family residenti al District should be changed to include this zones. The requirement is designed to area. encourage larger plants, permeable paving, • Single family parcels west of Rainier green roofs, vegetated walls, preservati on Avenue S. and south of S. Walden Street of existi ng trees, and layering of vegetati on to LR3. These parcels are surrounded by along streets and other areas visible to commercial or low rise residenti al uses on the public. Bonuses are provided for food three sides. culti vati on, nati ve and drought-tolerant plants, and rainwater harvesti ng.

Rezone Commercial and Neighborhood Priority Green Commercial Parcels to Seatt le Mixed — This Priority Green is a suite of green permitti ng zone allows ﬂ exibility for existi ng businesses incenti ves to assist projects that use smart to thrive and potenti ally bring new types approaches to design and constructi on and of businesses to the area over the next innovati ve practi ces. 20 years. It can accommodate a broader • Priority Green EXPEDITED shortens review range of businesses and mixed-use building ti mes for projects that meet typical green forms in the Town Center, but sti ll includes building standards and have less code development standards to acti vate streets complexity. with retail use and transparent building facades. • Priority Green FACILITATED assists all innovati ve project types that will serve as Sustainable Development visible models of high performance and sustainability. Much of the desired physical character and • Priority Green TOOLS provides additi onal sustainability of the Town Center will be code incenti ves to assist applicants determined by decisions of private property developing green projects. owners. In Seatt le, certain sustainable • The Living Building Pilot Program development practi ces are required by the assists projects att empti ng to meet Land Use, Building, and Stormwater codes. the requirements of the Living Building in additi on, the City has introduced several Challenge—a green building rati ng system programs to require or promote sustainable to recognize buildings meeti ng the highest building and design in new development level of sustainability. The Pilot Program projects: allows ﬂ exibility in development standards to accommodate innovati ve technologies or Green Factor design approaches that might otherwise be The Green Factor is a landscape requirement discouraged or prohibited.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 26 Seattle Department of Planning and Development IMPLEMENTATION

Analyses Requested by City Council Other Implementati on Resources

City Council Resoluti on 31204 requested Multi -Family Tax Exempti on Program that the Department of Planning and The Multi family Property Tax Exempti on Development (DPD) study and analyze some (MFTE) Program provides a tax exempti on on specifi c implementati on tools as part of the residenti al improvements on multi family the Urban Design Framework. Complete projects in exchange for the provision of analyses, discussions and recommendati ons aff ordable housing. The current rules allow regarding these items are included in the a tax exempti on for 12 years if 20percent of Director’s Analysis and Recommendati on on the units are set aside for moderate-wage Mount Baker Rezone Proposal. Findings are workers to rent or buy. Rental units are income summarized below: restricted based on the average household median income (AMI). The 2011 income • Development capacity under existing limits for rental units are 65 percent of the and proposed zoning. The proposed AMI for a studio ($39,520 for an individual, rezones are anti cipated to add 362 housing $45,175 for a couple), 75 percent of the AMI units over the next 20 years. for a one-bedroom ($45,600 for an individual, • Proposed incenti ve structures for public $52,125 for a couple), and 85 percent of the benefi ts. The recommended maximum AMI for a two-bedroom or larger ($51,680 for building heights of 125 feet allows the use an individual, $59,075 for a couple). The 2011 of incenti ve zoning provisions where a Income limits for sale units are 100 percent of minimum of 60 percent of the bonus fl oor the AMI for a studio or one bedroom ($60,800 area must be used to provide aff ordable for an individual, $69,500 for a couple), and housing. Other public benefi ts (open space, 120 percent of the AMI for a two-bedroom or public realm improvements) could be larger ($72,960 for an individual, $83,400 for a provided in exchange for the remaining 40 couple). percent of bonus fl oor area. • Transfer of development rights. Funding and Implementati on Toolkit for Parti cipati on in a transferable development Transit Communiti es rights program is not recommended due The Seatt le Planning Commission created to potenti al confl icts with City policy and this online toolkit to provide decision community prioriti es, as well as the high makers, private partners and community transacti ons costs that would be incurred. groups with informati on about funding • Minimum density. The use of minimum programs, implementati on and planning tools densiti es is not recommended because under commonly used to develop the essenti al current market conditi ons, this requirement components that create vibrant lively transit may be a disincenti ve to new development communiti es. The toolkit focuses on three and the expansion of existi ng businesses. broad categories of “livability elements”: infrastructure, community development and parks/open space. The toolkit includes local,

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 27 Seattle Department of Planning and Development IMPLEMENTATION

state and federal sources from small programs like the Opportunity Fund for community initi ati ve park development to larger sources like federal Community Block Grants that fund aﬀ ordable housing, neighborhood revitalizati on, community faciliti es and services and economic development. The toolkit can be viewed on the Commission’s website at htt p://www.seatt le.gov/ planningcommission/projects/transit.htm.

Public Investments in Streetscape Improvements Many of the recommendati ons for streetscape improvements could be implemented by SDOT as part of the Pedestrian Master Plan and Bicycle Master Plan, although when funding would be available is uncertain. A key next step in the streetscape improvement process would be the development of a Street Design Concept Plan that would become part of the Seatt le Right-of-Way Improvement Manual. Streetscape improvements can be helpful in att racti ng private investment to the Town Center.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 28 Seattle Department of Planning and Development IMPLEMENTATION

Summary of Acti ons

Building a successful Town Center requires the coordinated eﬀ ort of the community, the City, private development and a range of other public and private enti ti es. The following matrix describes the likely ti me frame for completi on and the responsible parti es for Urban Design Framework recommendati ons.

PROPOSED ACTIONS

= 1 to 3 years le

= 3 to 5 years tt = more than ﬁ ve years City of Sea Community King County Metro Washington DOT Private Development Sound Transit

Land Use + Built Form

Focus “main street” retail on S. McClellan Street and Rainier Avenue S.

Rezone selected single family parcels where appropriate.

Encourage the redevelopment of opportunity sites (e.g. Lowe’s, QFC, Transit Center).

Develop an open air, multi -cultural market.

Increase allowable heights.

Encourage setbacks on pedestrian-oriented retail streets.

Circulati on

Accommodate all travel modes on arterials and boulevards where feasible.

Reconnect Cheasty Boulevard S. and Mount Baker Boulevard S.

Improve bicycle infrastructure.

Make the pedestrian network complete and safe.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 29 Seattle Department of Planning and Development IMPLEMENTATION

PROPOSED ACTIONS

= 1 to 3 years le

= 3 to 5 years tt = more than ﬁ ve years City of Sea Community King County Metro Washington DOT Private Development Sound Transit

Circulati on Conti nued

Improve pedestrian and bicycle access to Mount Baker Station.

Analyze the feasibility of providing mid- block crossings on long blocks.

Provide pedestrian connecti ons uphill.

Streetscapes

Redesign Rainier Avenue S., MLK Jr. Way S. and S. McClellan Street as complete streets.

Restore the natural and designed landscapes of Cheasty Boulevard S. and Mount Baker Boulevard S.

Open Space and Gateways

Establish new open space in the core of the Town Center.

Animate and enhance the stati on plaza.

Establish gateways and landmarks.

Sustainable Strategies

Integrate green stormwater infrastructure into design of streetscapes, open space and boulevards.

Promote green building technology in new development.

Zoning

Implement proposed zoning changes to increase ﬂ exibility and allow more density.

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 30 Seattle Department of Planning and Development ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Mayor Mike McGinn, City of Seatt le North Rainier Community Action Team Members Diane Sugimura, Director Department of Town Center Planning & Development Sue Cary Pat Chemnick DPD Planning Team Peter Greaves Marshall Foster, City Planning Director Mo-Chee Li Lyle Bicknell Giovanni Della-Libera Mark Braseth Robert Mohn Moon Callison Gloria Ramirez Mercy Rome Patrice Carroll Dan Rosenfeld Nora Liu Cary Roth Eskinder Tedla Seatt le Planning Commission Paul Thienes Seatt le Design Commission Lighthouse for the Blind Nathan Brannon GGLO, LLC Doug Ito, SMR Architects David Jeff erson Mithūn, Inc Mark Landreneau Dana Marmion Great City Peggy Martinez Seatt le City Council David Miller Nancy L. Swaney Council President Richard Conlin Jason Wells Councilmember Sally Bagshaw Councilmember Tim Burgess Thank you to all the community members who Councilmember Sally J. Clark have generously given their ti me and energy Councilmember Jean Godden since 1999 to plan the future of North Rainier. Councilmember Bruce Harrell Councilmember Nick Licata Councilmember Mike O’Brien Councilmember Tom Rasmussen

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 31 Seattle Department of Planning and Development APPENDICES

APPENDICES

Mount Baker Town Center Urban Design Framework Page 32 Seattle Department of Planning and Development APPENDIX A - Zones and Districts commercial uses at street level in existi ng multi family neighborhoods of moderate Below are descripti ons of zones and districts scale. LR3 accommodates residenti al growth that are existi ng and/or proposed within or within growth areas (urban centers, urban adjacent to the Town Center. villages and the Stati on Area Overlay District). A mix of small to moderate scale multi family Single Family 5000 (SF5000) — This zone housing is encouraged including apartments, provides for a detached house with a single townhouses and rowhouses. dwelling unit, or one principal unit and one accessory unit. The minimum lot area for Neighborhood Commercial 3 (NC3) — This this zone is 5000 square feet. zone provides a larger pedestrian-oriented shopping district serving the surrounding Lowrise 2 (LR2) — This zone provides a neighborhood and a larger community, variety of multi family housing types in existi ng citywide or regional clientele. This type of multi family neighborhoods and along arterial retail district allows comparison shopping streets. A mix of small to moderate scale among a range of businesses. Typical land uses multi family housing is encouraged including include supermarkets, restaurants, oﬃ ces, apartments, townhouses and rowhouses. hotels, clothing shops, business support services, and residences that are compati ble Lowrise 2 Residenti al Commercial (LR2 with the area’s mixed-use character. RC) — This zone serves as a transiti onal zone between commercial zones and single Commercial 1 (C1) — This zone provides family residenti al zones. It provides a variety an auto-oriented, primarily retail/service of multi family housing types and small commercial area that serves the surrounding commercial uses at street level in existi ng neighborhood as well as a citywide or multi family neighborhoods and along arterial regional clientele. Typical lands uses include streets. A mix of small to moderate scale large supermarkets, building supplies and multi family housing is encouraged including household goods, auto sales and repairs and apartments, townhouses and rowhouses. apartments.

Lowrise 3 (LR3) — This zone provides a Commercial 2 (C2) — This zone provides variety of multi family housing types in existi ng auto-oriented, primarily non-retail commercial multi family neighborhoods of moderate area characterized by larger lots, parking scale. LR3 accommodates residenti al growth and a wide range of commercial uses serving within growth areas (urban centers, urban community, citywide or regional markets. villages and Stati on Area Overlay District). A Typical land uses include warehouses, mix of small to moderate scale multi family wholesale, research and development, housing is encouraged including apartments, and manufacturing uses. Residenti al use is townhouses and rowhouses. generally not allowed, but excepti ons meeti ng speciﬁ c criteria may be considered through a Lowrise 3 Residenti al Commercial (LR3 conditi onal use process. RC) — This zone serves as a transiti onal zone between commercial zones and single Seatt le Mixed (SM) — This zone is applied family residenti al zones. It provides a variety to achieve the goal of a diverse, mixed- of multi family housing types and small use community with a strong pedestrian orientati on. The zone permits a wide range of uses and promotes density to encourage a mixed-use neighborhood. This zoning designati on balances the need for ﬂ exibility and a variety of acti viti es with the need to provide adequate directi on to ensure the presence of housing and commercial acti viti es criti cal to the success of an urban neighborhood.

Stati on Area Overlay District (SAOD) – The SAOD designati on is intended to discourage auto-oriented development and increase opportuniti es for housing and mixed-use development near light rail stati ons. All existi ng legal businesses and uses are allowed to remain and maintain existi ng structures and sites. New development of certain commercial and industrial businesses—such as drive through businesses, warehouses, manufacturing, etc.—are prohibited.

Pedestrian Designati on (P) — The P designati on preserves and encourages an intensely retail and pedestrian-oriented shopping district where non-auto modes of transportati on are strongly favored. The P designati on restricts street level use to pedestrian-friendly commercial uses that enliven the sidewalk environment. A pedestrian designati on can be applied to any neighborhood commercial zone along principal pedestrian designated streets. The P designati on preserves and encourages a pedestrian–oriented shopping district by limiti ng building setbacks, reducing retail parking requirements, and controlling the locati on of parking lots and access to behind or under buildings fronti ng on a principal pedestrian street. Appendix B Council Resoluti on Number 31204

Appendix C North Rainier Neighborhood Plan January 2010

North Rainier NEIGHBORHOOD PLAN UPDATE

Recommendations to City Council

Goals, Policies and Strategies to Achieve the North Rainier Neighborhood Vision Executive Summary

In the North Rainier Neighborhood shared goal of increasing the com- The update recognizes the potential Plan Update process initiated in munity’s choices for how to live, for the large sites to the north of S. 2009, a diverse community of stake- work, and enjoy life in their neigh- McClellan St. to bring signifi cant new holders articulated priorities for the borhood. There are several new residential and commercial develop- future of their neighborhood, iden- recommendations intended to help ment that could transform the Town tifying goals and shaping the poli- maintain the community’s diversity Center into a vibrant community cies and strategies to achieve them. and ethnic roots. These include and destination. Consequently the They benefi ted from the compelling strategies to preserve opportuni- update includes strategies to further vision of the existing Neighborhood ties for small and ethnic businesses, study a range of height increases in Plan, fi rst completed in 1999, which create a multicultural community the Town Center. This refl ects the established a vision for an interweav- center, and encourage park facilities potential for compact development, ing of people of various backgrounds and programming that are culturally including a small number of tow- who live and work in a culturally relevant to diff erent communities. ers. Completion of an urban design and economically diverse area that plan, design guidelines and street maintains its ethnic roots. Central to Participants continue to recognize designs will give clear guidance to this is the goal of creating a com- the potential of light rail service to development. In addition, as part of pact, mixed-use neighborhood or create a neighborhood Town Cen- the vision for the Town Center, the “Town Center” near the light rail sta- ter that is a cornerstone of a more update proposes to create a “Main tion. Major steps have been taken sustainable community. They have Street” for the Town Center along in North Rainier in the past decade, envisioned how more households the blocks of Rainier Ave. S. between including the opening of a new light would increase opportunities for the S. Bayview St. and MLK Jr. Way S. rail station and improvements to diversity of businesses and services rather than pursuing a roundabout Cheasty Boulevard and other parks. that they value. At the same time, as promoted in the 1999 plan. As the community made clear in the they have emphasized that they update process, however, signifi cant need a Town Center that works for The update’s format and structure work remains to be done, and there them, where growth and change are designed to allow a civic part- are newly emerging priorities and include housing for diverse incomes nership of the community, City, and new strategies to pursue. and household sizes; connecting to public and private organizations to their homes and businesses with work together to make this vision a The workshops, meetings, and on- safe, green, and walkable streets and reality. going discussions that have shaped sidewalks is equally important. the update underscore the widely

How the Update Community Engagement – Sustainability – provides a discus- describes the process through sion of environmental and socio- Is Organized which community members pro- economic sustainability and its vided guidance and invaluable inherent relevance to neighborhood This document incorporates various information, including the various planning. components that together com- methods used to reach out to and prise the update. The following is a engage as many neighbors as pos- description of the diﬀ erent compo- sible. nents:

www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi Introduction Introduction

In the 1990s, community members need to revisit the plans through and neighborhood residents can all from 38 neighborhoods across the broad and inclusive discussions work together to bring about the city created a 20-year vision for with the community, including new neighborhood vision. how each of their neighborhoods strategies for civic engagement. would grow. This work was done as The update process was begun in Over the past year, dedicated com- part of the Seattle Comprehensive 2009 to: confi rm the neighborhood munity members worked with City Plan initiative, a citywide eff ort that Vision, refi ne the plan Goals and staff to assess and address those sought to “preserve the best qual- Policies in order to take into account conditions that have changed since ity of Seattle’s distinct neighbor- changed conditions, and update the 1999 North Rainier Neighbor- hoods while responding positively work plans to help ensure that each hood Plan. New neighbors and new and creatively to the pressures of community’s vision and goals are voices joined those who participat- change and growth.” The Neighbor- achieved through the implementa- ed ten years ago. Together, com- hood Plans developed strategies to tion of the strategies and actions. munity members discussed what ensure that the creative response to they value in the neighborhood, growth was informed by both City The North Rainier Neighborhood and outlined their shared goals and expertise and local knowledge and Plan was chosen by the Mayor and ideas about how to achieve those priority-setting. City Council as one of three plans goals. to be updated in 2009. The arrival In the decade after the plans were of light rail service brings increased These new Goals and Policies will be completed, there have been sig- development interest and new resi- incorporated into the City’s Com- nifi cant changes in Seattle and its dents to the neighborhood. These prehensive Plan (see Appendix). The neighborhoods, including growth in changes present great opportuni- plan update also creates a shared housing, and major investments in ties to realize North Rainier’s goal work plan for the community and public amenities. Also, during this to create a vibrant, transit-oriented City (see Appendix). The strategies time the population of the city also Town Center, one in which resi- and actions will be incorporated in a greatly diversifi ed. Following exten- dents, businesses, and visitors enjoy living document that defi nes shared sive discussion and review of the ex- the lively, diverse, and distinctive priorities and responsibilities for isting Neighborhood Plans and their character of the neighborhood. This next steps. eff ectiveness, in 2008, the Mayor plan update articulates community and City Council recognized the goals so that the City, developers

Vision, Goals, Policies The Goals are organized into two Appendices – include several and Strategies – are the key com- broad categories: Creating Choices important resource documents ponents of this update. The Vision is for Living, Working and Playing; including a shared work plan for from the 1999 Neighborhood Plan and Shaping a Transit-Oriented the City and neighborhood to guide and holds true today. The Goals, Town Center. With each Goal are its implementation and the original Policies and Strategies build upon associated Policies and Strategies Neighborhood Plan. one another to help fulﬁ ll the North and a discussion that incorporates Rainier Vision. They are a distillation the community input and feedback of what we heard from the commu- that shaped the recommended nity and will guide the City’s work as strategies. well as inform future development that occurs in the neighborhood.

North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 3 Community Engagement

Over the course of the past year, a about planning and create deeper on exercises to identify gaps and broad cross section of community understanding of the issues and opportunities for improving mobil- members engaged with the City richer input. For example, sight- im- ity around and through the neigh- through both innovative and time- paired and mobility-impaired work- borhood as well as to explore the tested tools. From hands-on workers at the Lighthouse for the Blind relationships between the number shops and smaller-scale interactive came together to discuss specifi c of households in the neighborhood, meetings with community-based issues and recommendations for retail destinations, parks and walk- organizations, to online updates and making open spaces and streets bet- ability. The POLs replicated the questionnaires, neighbors used a va- ter places for people with disabilities. exercises; working with their respec- riety of ways to be involved. Reach- tive communities. The community’s ing a broad range of those who live In March 2009, neighbors engaged in goals and desired improvements and work in North Rainier, including the fi rst phase of the update process within the neighborhood grew from those who have been historically through the North Rainier Baseline this second phase of meetings. underrepresented in the planning and Issues Identifi cation Workshop process, was a primary objective of at Franklin High School. They dis- In September 2009, community the update process. During 2009, cussed neighborhood-initiated plan- members attended two open houses community members expressed ning eff orts since the writing of the to review draft goals and recommen- their views at 48 neighborhood and existing Neighborhood Plan as well dations that grew from the themes, City-sponsored meetings and events as how to build on that work given issues, goals and desired improve- in North Rainier. Long-time veterans changing conditions. Neighbors de- ments voiced by the community of neighborhood planning, stew- scribed how they live, work and play throughout the preceding months. ards of the important work begun in their neighborhood, what makes it Outreach continued through the in the 1990s, and a new generation unique, what they value in the com- fi nal months of the year, including of neighborhood planners came munity and how they see it changing the work of POLs, who reached out together to build a broader base of in the next several years. Neighbors to their communities to both review civic engagement. Bicultural and/or also described how they move draft plan recommendations and to bilingual Planning Outreach Liaisons around and through the community, lay the groundwork for their ongoing (POLs) connected with 13 under- the kinds of places they go and how engagement in the update’s imple- represented communities. The POLs they value those places, especially mentation phase. hosted 38 community workshops parks and open space. Embedded in where historically underrepresented these discussions were their identi- Throughout the plan update pro- North Rainier community members fi ed needs for a healthy and vital cess, the workshops and meetings participated—strengthening the neighborhood. POLs extended this have been structured to engage bridge between the City of Seattle, conversation into their respective community discussion and guidance, residents, community organizations, communities throughout March followed by reporting back, all of and businesses. and April. North Rainier’s important which has informed the next steps of issues and priorities emerged from drafting and fi nalizing recommenda- This intensive eff ort was necessary these conversations. tions. This broad engagement and in order to build relationships with detailed recording of community those who were new to the planning In May small groups of neighbors comments throughout the process discussion, and to provide suffi cient and City staff worked together at created ongoing transparency that background information to help a Town Hall meeting at the North- serves as the underpinning of this them participate eff ectively. POLs west African American Museum to update to the North Rainier Neigh- went beyond translation and inter- address themes that emerged from borhood Plan. pretation to create culturally ap- the March and April workshops. propriate opportunities for dialogue Neighbors worked through hands-

www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi Sustainability Introduction

A sustainable community is one gas emissions—by reducing vehicle tocol in 2005 to reduce greenhouse that values and plans for its long- miles traveled. If you don’t have to gas emissions, and this work contin- term social, economic, and envi- get in your car to get groceries, go ues. But global standards only work ronmental health. Seattle’s Com- to work, or enjoy an afternoon in a if there are local commitments. prehensive Plan states this as four park or neighborhood downtown, values that are the bedrock of the you can make the more sustainable As Neighborhood Plan Updates City’s commitment to sustainability: choice, a local decision that can af- move forward, the City will con- community, environmental stew- fect the global challenge of reduc- tinue to work with communities to ardship, economic opportunity and ing greenhouse gas emissions. develop further measures of sus- security, and social equity. tainability, from walkability, to the Yet as community dialogue made availability of fresh, healthful food, North Rainier is a Hub Urban Village clear throughout the update pro- to green infrastructure of trees with remarkable existing and poten- cess, the arrival of light rail on its and open space. At the same time, tial strengths as a sustainable com- own does not guarantee sustain- the update process has made clear munity. A core principle of Seattle’s ability. For people to make more that sustainability does not need approach to sustainability is that it sustainable decisions, they need to be set out as separate and apart must be addressed at the neighbor- to see that there are more and from the overall recommendations, hood level, and that it is critical to better choices, and to recognize because communities already see it directly engage the people who live, the direct impact of sustainability as integral to their overall vision for work, and visit our communities to on their lives. For example, Great the future. shape a sustainable future. Through City worked with the community the update process, the neighbors’ to complete a Green Infrastructure commitment was clear to making Audit. This work has complemented their neighborhood remain and and informed the update process, improve as a place that is walkable, and underscores how a community- livable, and meets the promise of informed process—identifying how its new light rail service—off ering sustainability directly aff ects their more choices to the people who lives—is key to establishing a new live and work there. That choice standard. The citywide, regional, can have an impact on one of the and global decision-making remains most signifi cant environmental crucial—Seattle has led the world as standards—reducing greenhouse a city in signing on to the Kyoto Pro-

Community members discussing the future of the North Rainier urban village North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 5 Vision, Goals, Policies and Strategies

North Rainier community. Neighbors know and The businesses are strong, stimulat- Neighborhood Plan Vision, care about each other. Children are ing and economically stable. Various February 1999, Excerpt welcome and have plenty of safe new commercial and industrial activ- places to play. ities have recently entered the scene Entering the North Rainier Valley and retain the diversity and ethnic we are impressed by the neat, well- North Rainier Valley is a destination heritage that make our Rainier Val- maintained, well-landscaped main for recreational activities. Continu- ley unique. A full range of services thoroughfares that accommodate ous bicycle paths and routes mean- is available without having to leave all major modes of transportation. der from Lake Washington through the community. Zoning coordinates We are an interweaving of people of the residential areas, through parks, industrial, commercial, and residen- various backgrounds who live and the city, and outlying areas. The tial uses to their mutual advantage. work in a culturally and economi- green spaces are linked together. Businesses actively participate in cally diverse area which maintains its Playfi elds and courts allow for all community activities. Retail property ethnic roots. Business, light indus- ages and skill levels to gather and is well kept and accessible to all. trial, and high-tech job opportunities compete. Venues are set up for provide welcome employment for regional sports. Public transportation has become the entire Puget Sound region. easier to use than the automobile- The valley is a draw for fi lm, the- oriented systems of the 20th cen- The residential environment com- ater, music, dance, and visual arts. tury. Major routes are safe for bikes, prises multifamily, single-family, Public squares, religious institutions, pedestrians, autos and transit users and mixed-use housing in clean, safe schools, and community centers are and are completely accessible for the neighborhoods aff ordable to a broad also gathering places for activities visually and physically impaired. The range of people. Housing densities for neighborhood residents. The streets themselves are tree-lined increase near the core of the urban community enjoys and celebrates and smooth. Transit systems link the village and around transportation diversity. Committment to helping east, west, north and south areas of hubs. Multifamily housing is not immigrants become an integral part Seattle, and the entire Puget Sound concentrated in one area, allowing of this neighborhood, programs are region in a way that is nonintrusive increased density while not over- set up to accommodate new immi- to the fabric of the neighborhood. whelming the community. grant populations and aid them with The commute is easy for folks from English classes, cultural interaction, other areas to visit, work, and shop Residential areas are peaceful, and advocacy for their needs. Such in the North Rainier Valley. quiet and safe. They are inviting to programs are increasingly shared in pedestrians, children, families the el- and with other parts of the City. Mount Rainier remains a landmark derly, and people with special needs. vista in the heart of Rainier Valley. Anyone is able to walk or roll along Our ongoing commitment to the The pulse of our area is vibrant. The the streets at all hours of the day education of our youth is the corner- future is grand. or night. Consistent maintenance stone of the North Rainier Neighbor- keeps areas clean, neat, and safe. hood. Schools are consistently and Pocket parks and P-Patches are in- fully used for adult education, after- terspersed throughout the neighbor- school activities, and a wide variety hoods. Iron bars covering doors and of educational and tutorial opportu- windows are seen no more, having nities. Citizens are actively involved been replaced by vibrant architec- in outreach and volunteer programs. ture and colors, open doors, and High-quality school programs have a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere become a draw for business and that has drawn residents back to the employment.

www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi Creating Choices for Living, Working and Play Introduction

This section of the Update Policies • encouraging membership in local describes goals to preserve, 1.A. Encourage the inclusion of af- business associations, and enhance and improve the fordable commercial space in new • encouraging peer support and day-to-day life of community development. mentoring. members. It also outlines 4. Supporting partnerships to strategies and to help achieve 1.B. Strive to facilitate the vitality strengthen the business district, these goals. of existing retail and businesses such as that help meet the neighborhood’s • SCORE/Small Business Develop- Note: Numbers in parentheses, employment goals and serve as des- ment Center , such as (NR-P6), after Goals tination businesses for customers • Community Capital Development, and Policies refer to the from the Rainier Valley and beyond • University of Washington Entre- 1999 Neighborhood Plan in addition to meeting the daily preneurial Law Clinic, Goals and Policies as they needs of residents. • Rainier Valley Community Devel- were incorporated in the opment Fund, and Comprehensive Plan. Refer to Strategies • HomeSight. the appendix to see how the 1. Strengthen the Rainier Valley Comp Plan Amendment updates Chamber of Commerce and encour- 5. Retain a grocery store and phar- the Neighborhood Plan with age increased membership from macy in the Town Center. new and revised goals and local businesses so that business policies that emerged from the owners can work together and with 6. Improve the existing Town Center 2009 Update process. the community to create a vibrant and make it more inviting using the neighborhood business district. The City’s Neighborhood Business Dis- Chamber can also provide a venue trict Fund and Neighborhood Street for peer support and mentoring as Funds. Work with the community Goal 1 well as a venue for its members to to identify projects and initiatives A vibrant, business district that raise its concerns to the City and to in which the community’s eﬀ ort serves North Rainier residents pursue grants and technical assis- would be matched by funds from and is a destination shopping area tance. the Neighborhood Matching Fund. with stores that serve the greater Improvements may include Rainier Valley. 2. Look for opportunities in projects • streetscape amenities, such as receiving City funding to create af- benches and banners; Discussion fordable commercial spaces. • activating public spaces with Community members want a shop- street vendors; ping district; a place they can go 3. Support and expand the existing • business district marketing map for their daily to monthly needs. A diverse mix of generally small-scale and brochure; and number stated that they would like a businesses by • encourage community-driven place to buy clothes and shoes with- • using design guidelines that activities that support gatherings out going to Southcenter. Others provide guidance for creating which draw customers such as spoke of the desire to have a place business spaces that are culturally street fairs, farmers markets, etc. where they would spend an after- appropriate (such as storefronts noon meeting friends, eating and that open onto sidewalks) , shopping. • providing technical assistance and access to ﬁ nancing to small businesses in the retail corridor,

North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 7 Creating Choices for Living, Working and Play

Strategies Goal 2 1. Explore new and existing models 5. Explore feasibility of using the Ethnic and cultural diversity of fi nancing mixed-use develop- Station Area Overlay District or in- is a continued presence in the ment projects that provide aff ord- centive zoning to create aff ordable businesses and community. able commercial space as well as commercial space. Discussion aff ordable housing in City-funded mixed-use projects. 6. Implement programming and The cultural diversity of the improvements that are culturally commercial district is valued and 2. Promote the location of cultural relevant to people with disabilities supported by the community. The community centers and services in throughout the Town Center, such broader community would like the neighborhood. as innovative aesthetic enhance- these often small, independently ments to the public realm, and owned, culturally focused 3. Promote peer support, men- parks that incorporate audible, businesses to remain as the North toring, technical assistance, and visual and tactile confi gurations. Rainier Urban Village grows and other means of improving business transforms. Owners of small, ethnic capacity for businesses interested in 7. Support community-driven gath- businesses spoke of the need to broadening their market. ering activities that increase aware- both expand their market and to ness and education of the commu- support continued aff ordability. 4. Promote opportunities for cross- nity’s multicultural population and create a multicultural identity and Policies cultural integration among the business owners as well as among the destination point for Seattle. 2.A. Promote the location of broader community. Seek oppor- cultural community centers and tunities to create a vibrant, stable services in the transit-accessible multicultural shopping area. areas of the neighborhood.

2.B. Provide technical and ﬁ nancial support to small businesses that meet the needs of the ethnic and cultural communities in the neighborhood.

2.C. Encourage community-based eﬀ orts for cross-cultural integration among the business owners as well as among the broader community.

2.D. Encourage the construction of physical improvements and activity programming that are culturally relevant to people with disabilities throughout the Town Center.

www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi Creating Choices for Living, Working and Play

and force residents to move away. 3. Encourage aff ordable family-sized Goal 3 Aff ordable housing, including family homes through incentives, direct Development within the Town housing and aff ordable senior City funding, and surplus property Center prioritizes housing that housing is important. programs. serves households across a range of incomes. Policies 4. Use City funding to leverage other 3.A. Encourage a mix of home prices funding to preserve existing and cre- Discussion and sizes through active use of ate new subsidized housing. Many community members noted incentives and funding. that there is little housing in the Town 5. Apply Comprehensive Plan aff ord- Center of the North Rainier Urban Strategies able housing targets to the North Village and suggested improving 1. Encourage and/or require mix of Rainier Urban Village and periodi- pedestrian and transit connections home prices and sizes through active cally evaluate progress. into the center, as well as increasing use of incentives, direct City funding, the vitality and personal safety of the and surplus property programs. 6. Set aff ordable housing objectives Center by increasing the number of and use incentives, direct City fund- housing units there. More market- 2. Leverage public funds to support ing, and surplus property programs rate housing is needed, as well aff ordable housing near to the light to fi ll gaps. as aff ordable housing. Concerns rail station. were expressed that increased development will increase rents

Rainier as the Hub Urban Village 4. Look for opportunities for a Living Goal 4 within the Rainier Valley. Building Pilot Program project in North Rainier Hub Urban Village is North Rainier. known as a “Green Hub” providing 4.B. Identify and promote opportu- green jobs and training, and green nities for green infrastructure and 5. Complete a green infrastructure development. development. analysis exploring potential oppor- Discussion tunities such as UW Laundry, Rainier Strategies Ave. S. redesign and stormwater North Rainier is a Hub Urban Village 1. Consider creating a green technol- facility work. with the capacity for an increase ogy-focused extension program by in jobs. Community members felt working with organizations such as 6. Consider building a “green” dem- that the presence of the University the University of Washington. onstration and education site for the of Washington as a land owner and community in relation to the green the tradition of North Rainier Urban 2. Build on the “green ring” provided jobs and technology program that Village as a commercial and light by Cheasty Greenspace and Mt. could provide visible, passive edu- manufacturing area suggests an op- Baker Boulevard by stressing the use cation about wind and solar tech- portunity to build a green technology of complementary green building nologies and other green building incubator. technologies in development regula- technologies to encourage engage- tions and incentives. Policies ment in green jobs or local use of alternative energy. This could also be 4.A. Support training programs and 3. Continue to pursue zoning and a destination site that supports small jobs in North Rainier that capitalize design review changes that support businesses. on the green technology market in the inclusion of green building com- order to support the role of North ponents.

North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 9 Creating Choices for Living, Working and Play

Valley, North Rainier should include 2. Develop more coordinated Goal 5 training programs and jobs for information resources for youth to A community that supports youth that prepare them for family- learn about and engage in various and provides opportunities for wage jobs in the area and region. activities at a range of community neighborhood youth. service centers, learn about jobs Strategies and job training, as well as engage Discussion 1. Continue to fund programs that in supported physical activity in lo- The North Rainier Urban Village is engage youth in positive and safe cal green and open spaces. home to Franklin High School – a ways such as center for both youth education and • Youth in Focus photography 3. Work more closely with local youth activities. The community classes; schools to create seamless access would like to see more programs to • Seattle Chamber Players compo- for youth to community amenities positively engage its young people. sition workshop at Franklin High and services. School; and Policies • Northwest African American Mu- 5.A. In fulﬁ lling its role as the seum public sculpture classes. Hub Urban Village for the Rainier

Strategies 6. Complete a Health Impact As- Goal 7 sessment to increase the success of North Rainier is known as a safe 1. Create neighborhood design implementation at reducing dispari- and hospitable neighborhood guidelines that emphasize pedestri- ties in health. through its residents’ increased an-friendly elements in new devel- awareness of community-based opments and ensure “eyes on the 7. Install pedestrian-scale lighting crime prevention programs. (NR- street.” throughout the Town Center, using G10) 2. Provide suffi cient police presence design and color to distinguish the Discussion around transit facilities until the area as a vital pedestrian environment. Throughout Southeast Seattle the time that the level of development community’s concerns about public provides suffi cient activity to reduce 8. Support community-based safety negatively aff ects their use the need for police presence. projects that include activities that of transit and parks, and walking or positively impact public safety is- bicycling to local shopping areas. 3. Defi ne and protect emergency access routes to and through the Town sues including the development Policies Center for reliable access by police of community groups that share information and education about 7.A. Promote uses around transit fa- and fi re vehicles. public safety as well as groups that cilities such as businesses open into implement programs or physical the evening hours, and housing that 4. Increase the mix of uses and resi- improvement projects, such as litter provides “eyes on the street.” dential density in the Town Center to increase the numbers of people clean up, festivals, gathering spaces, public art, lighting improvements, 7.B. Seek opportunities for the using the public spaces including the banners for business districts, etc. community and the Seattle Police sidewalks. Department to strengthen partnerships. 5. Build positive working relationships among community members and Seattle Police Department.

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6.E. Consider using levy funds, 5. Pursue the potential for acquiring Goal 6 general funds and partnerships with new P-Patch community gardening A “ring of green” surrounding developers, to create a hierarchy of space and urban agriculture space as the urban village with strong public and private open spaces that part of and in addition to the 2008 connections to the greenbelts, are publicly accessible and address Parks and Green Spaces Levy. boulevards and parks, augmented the gaps identifi ed in the Parks Gap with a hierarchy of open spaces. Analysis. 6. Implement the Parks and Green Spaces Levy project to renovate and Discussion 6.F. Support local agriculture improve Atlantic Street Playground. The community values the existing and access to locally grown food parks and open spaces. Many through public mechanisms such 7. Implement the Parks and Green expressed that the parks and open as P-Patches and the Cultivating Spaces Levy project to renovate and spaces are key to why they enjoy Communities program, as well as improve Rainier Park Playground. living in the area. There will be a nonprofi t and private mechanisms need for a variety of parks or open including farmers markets and on- 8. Use opportunities, such as the spaces in the Town Center as it gains site landscaping. 2008 Parks and Green Spaces Levy residents, which will support the area project at Children’s Play Garden and as a shopping destination. The form Strategies other Parks Department programs and programming of open spaces 1. Improve and augment the Cheasty to increase accessibility and create should also meet the diff ering needs and Mt. Baker Boulevard network by open spaces that are relevant to of the diverse community. • improving street-end stairways, people with disabilities. • constructing new trails from Bea- Policies con Hill to the Town Center that 9. Continue to implement the Pro 6.A. Seek to preserve off er easier grades than those on Parks Levy designs for Jimi Hendrix environmentally sensitive hillsides, streets such as S. McClellan St., Park, including elements that im- particularly those in the Cheasty • enhancing the streetscape on S. prove connections to the Northwest Greenbelt, and seek to protect McClellan St., and African American Museum and the them from further residential • incorporating destination / active surrounding neighborhood. development. (NR-P6) spaces along the network. 10. As funding becomes available, 6.B. Support partnerships with Parks, 2. Consider working with nonprofi t create additional structured and un- SDOT, DON, utilities, nonprofi t organizations or a private developer structured play areas for children. organizations and the community to to establish a multicultural commu- enhance street-end stairs, and create nity facility. 11. Increase the vibrancy and safety safe trails where appropriate through of the public realm with wider side- the surrounding greenbelts. 3. Implement park programming walks, landscaping and pedestrian and improvements that are culturally lighting. 6.C. Enhance community pride relevant to the neighborhood, such through establishment of a as increasing opportunities for soc- 12. Promote the development of multicultural community center, cer, and separate swimming times more P-Patches and other methods multicultural community festivals, for women. to increase access to locally based youth mentoring, and other youth food sources and to build commu- programs that support positive and 4. Pursue the potential for acquiring nity. safe activities for youth. (NR-P10) new parks space within the urban village through the Parks and Green 6.D. Design parks and open spaces and Spaces Levy funds for Neighborhood programming to accommodate users Park Acquisition. of diverse ages, interests and cultures.

North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 11 www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 13 Vision, Goals, Policies and Strategies

Shaping a Transit-Oriented Town Center

This section focuses on the community members’ ideas for the physical elements – streets and urban form – that support their goal to create a strong Town Center that is attractive to residents as well as visitors. Residents and business owners alike recognize the potential of light rail to serve as a catalyst to help shape a more pedestrian- oriented Town Center.

To be a vital place that oﬀ ers all the desired amenities, there must be suﬃ cient density of housing businesses and jobs, good design, diversity of activities and people, and desirable destinations. These elements are also central to realizing a sustainable urban community where walking and transit are the preferred ways to get around.

Policies 8.F. Within mixed-use zones in the Goal 8 Station Area Overlay District, defi ne A Town Center that concentrates 8.A. Foster development of a and consider minimum residential housing, commercial uses, services shopping district comprised of densities in new buildings in order and living-wage employment op- businesses that provide products to create the critical mass of people portunities; that is well served by and services meeting the needs of and activity for a Town Center. transit and nonmotorized travel community members from diff erent cultural backgrounds. options; and that is well designed Strategies and attractive to pedestrians. 8.B. Assess utility capacity within 1. Use mechanisms such as urban design framework plans, neighbor- A vibrant, business district that the Town Center for its ability to hood design guidelines, and street serves North Rainier residents support the desired future density. design plans to describe the desired and is a destination shopping area form of future development. with stores that serve the greater 8.C. Strengthen local business as- Rainier Valley. sociations that include and support the presence and growth of busi- 2. Create neighborhood design Discussion nesses owned by immigrant and guidelines and an urban design framework plan for the North Rainier Creating a Town Center for North minority community members. Town Center area. Plan elements Rainier was a central component of could include the neighborhood plan and station 8.D. Support and expand the exist- • building height options; area plan. Community members ing diverse mix of generally small- • incentive features; continue to support this, and off er a scale businesses. • breaking down scale of super more defi nitive vision about the char- blocks to create a balance of acter of the area, the mix of uses and 8.E. Include a portion of single-fam- inwardly and outwardly focused the connections to the surrounding ily area located between 24th Ave. development; single family areas. While most of the S. and 25th Ave. S. north of S. Mc- • use of green building strate- recommended public improvements Clellan St. within the urban village gies such as those that address have been completed, the envisioned and within the Station Area Overlay drainage, building effi ciency; tree new development and critical ele- District, and support a multifamily canopy; and opportunities for ments of streetscape improvements zoning designation for the area that district energy systems; have not. Property owners now see would allow more compact residen- • open space that invites people to opportunities to create redevelop- tial development. (See pages 12 and gather and to engage in physical ments that would be defi ning ele- 13.) activity; ments of the Town Center. www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi Shaping a Transit-Oriented Town Center Introduction

• pedestrian connections and side- 4. Evaluate proposed height and to allow more compact residential walk widths; and land use changes within the Town development. • guidelines to help ensure that new Center. (See pages 12 and 13.) housing doesn’t create a “wall” of 8. Within mixed-use zones in the undesirable facades that is counter 5. Address zoning on west side of Station Area Overlay District, con- to the feel of the neighborhood. Rainier Ave S. immediately south of sider minimum residential densities S. Walden St. There are eight single- (related to the zoning designations). 3. Through processes that engage family parcels adjacent to parcels community stakeholders consider zoned NC3-65 and L-3. Rezone 9. Maintain and expand collabora- and evaluate the application of these parcels to be more consistent tion with Sound Transit, King Country zoning designations and related with adjacent properties. Metro, property owners, and com- development regulations that are munity members to pursue redevel- most likely to achieve the neighbor- 6. Expand the Town Center area to opment opportunities in the Station hood’s urban design vision. Include focus new mixed use development Area Overlay District, such as surplus evaluation of new regulatory and south of S. Bayview St. and north of Sound Transit parcels and the Metro programmatic tools as they become S. Byron St. bus layover, to create dense, mixed- available. Rezone key opportunity use projects that establish a vital sites to encourage redevelopment of 7. Consider including within the ur- pedestrian environment, provide parcels around the light rail station in ban village a portion of single-family aﬀ ordable housing, and support the a manner that incorporates housing, area located between 24th Ave. S. development of small businesses. commercial services (such as a gro- and 25th Ave. S. and north of S. Mc- cery store and small businesses) and Clellan St., and rezoning to be more 10. Continue to pursue redevelop- amenities. (See pages 12 and 13.) consistent with adjacent zoning, and ment of the triangle block contain- ing the bus transfer facility. Possible solutions could include undertaking a joint development project incorporating the bus transfer facility, or ﬁ nding a new location for the bus transfer facility on the west side of Rainier Ave. S. and redeveloping the block.

11. Pursue opportunities to create a multicultural shopping area/center/ market.

12. Work with Seattle City Light, Seattle Public Utilities and the De- partment of Information Technology when considering changes to zoning to evaluate if there are area-speciﬁ c capacity problems resulting from the potential increase in development capacity.

13. Encourage the use of City grant programs to improve the Town Cen- ter and make it more inviting.

Places and Connections

North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 15 Shaping a Transit-Oriented Town Center

transit and shopping areas from Goal 9 9.D. Enhance access throughout the the Lighthouse for the Blind and A neighborhood served by a net- Town Center for people of all ages the Center Park. work of safe streets with ameni- and abilities. • Identify sites that would benefi t ties for pedestrians and bicyclists. from unique art or pavement (NR-G3) Strategies treatments to support a vibrant Discussion 1. Create a pedestrian network of walking environment. pathways throughout the Town Cen- It was clearly acknowledged that ter, connecting retail, services and 2. Identify desired off -street circula- this is currently an auto-oriented the light rail station. Specifi c actions tion patterns and work with develop- neighborhood. Both Rainier Ave. S. could include the following: ers of large parcels to create internal and MLK Jr. Way S. are dominated • Implementation of the Southeast circulation that promotes walking by vehicular traffi c and are diffi - Transportation Study (SETS ) within developments and between cult to navigate as a pedestrian or projects #10 and #11 to calm traf- the sites. bicyclist. Many people are afraid for fi c and improve the streetscape their personal safety while wait- along S. McClellan St. from 23rd 3. Modify the Land Use Code to de- ing on the street for a bus. Nearby Ave. S. to Mt. Baker Blvd. Proj- fi ne minimum widths for sidewalks residents who could actually walk ects #10 and #11 include relocat- and landscaped planting strips on all to the stores said they choose not ing utility poles and signal con- streets in station areas with pedes- to because it is unsafe and diffi cult troller cabinets where necessary trian designations. Defi ne areas to walk from store to store. In the to ensure a clear walking path, that are appropriate for, and associ- future, this area is envisioned as a adding a missing sidewalk link, ated sidewalk dimensions that are destination shopping area where it widening sidewalks, installing supportive of sidewalk cafes and/or is possible to run multiple errands in planting strips, installing curb ex- stores that open to the sidewalk. one trip during the day or evening. tensions, and adding pedestrian Currently, the area does not feel lighting. Additional work may 4. Improve street ends to create secure because there are no “eyes on include working with Metro to more connections between neigh- the street” from local businesses and relocate trolley wire poles out of borhoods. residences. the pedestrian pathway. Policies • Work with property owners and 5. Create a more secure environ- developers to break up the large ment for people and business using 9.A. Create seamless pedestrian and block and/or parcels into smaller the Crime Prevention Through bicycle links within the Town Center, pieces, providing walking routes Environmental Design (CPTED) prin- and to the surrounding community through the sites and connections ciples to enliven temporarily vacant facilities. to the surrounding street grid, as sites. Ideas could include temporary well as consolidating the number markets. 9.B. Prioritize development of uni- of driveways as redevelopment versally accessible routes between occurs to provide an improved 6. Create active, family-oriented the Town Center and locations such pedestrian environment. spaces within the Town Center to as Lighthouse for the Blind and • Complete the sidewalk network invite positive use that enhances Center Park. to make better connections be- public safety. tween destinations. 9.C. Ensure that standards for new • When enhancing access through- development projects will accom- out the Town Center for people of modate a vibrant pedestrian en- all ages and abilities, pay particu- vironment throughout the Town lar attention to connections to Center.

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A “traffi c-calmed” Rainier Ave. S. Strategies Goal 10 would most likely promote further 1. Implement the recommendations Rainier Ave. S. is a highly function- streetscape improvements. from the Southeast Transportation ing multimodal “complete street” Study (SETS), which serves as the that serves as the spine of the Community members recognize the blueprint for programming trans- Rainier Valley and retains its exist- area’s transportation challenges, portation improvements in South- ing vistas of Mount Rainier. (NR- with better bus, walking and biking east Seattle. G4A) environments a high priority. While the community acknowledges 2. Use the Pedestrian Master Plan Continue to develop Martin Luther the constraints of available rights- as a tool for prioritizing pedestrian King Jr. Way S. as a “complete of-way, the area needs sidewalks improvements and Neighborhood street,” and part of the neighbor- wide enough for safe walking, with Street Fund projects. hood’s network of streets with outdoor cafes and adequate bus amenities for pedestrians, bicy- shelters; on-street parking in the 3. Use the Bicycle Master Plan as a clists, and transit riders. (NR-G4B) commercial areas to act as a buff er tool for prioritizing bicycle improve- between traffi c and pedestrians; and ments. A transformed Rainier Avenue S. bike lanes. between S. Bayview St. and Martin 4. Continue to pursue a bicycle route Luther King Jr. Way S. that functions Policies along Rainier Ave. S. or parallel as a pedestrian-oriented main street. 10.A. Promote alternative street that takes advantage of the transportation programs, such as fl at grade in the valley fl oor. Discussion bicycle commuting, local hiring, van Almost everyone agreed that pools, and transit ridership. (NR-P13) 5. Look for opportunities to develop Rainier Ave. S. and the abutting transportation corridors that might development in its current form are 10.B. Support actions that improve encompass several roads. For ex- not conducive to creating a vibrant the pedestrian and transit functions ample, consider if Chief Sealth Trail Town Center. By reducing traffi c along Rainier Ave. S. between S. can function as the major north/ on Rainier Ave. S., the streetscape Bayview Str. and MLK Jr. Way S. so south bike route, enhancing the would be made more appealing that the section becomes more of connections from it to commercial for pedestrians and still be able to a local main street for the North areas. adequately accommodate transit. Rainier neighborhood.

Rainier Ave S Expanded ROW Option Rainier Ave S Reroute Option

North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 17 Shaping a Transit-Oriented Town Center

intersection and back to Rainier • SDOT will complete a conceptual (continued) Goal 10 Ave. S. by way of S. Bayview St. design for Rainier Ave. S. from the (Note: The re-route strategy would Rainier Ave. S. and MLK Jr. Way 6. Consider adding destination require more detailed modeling intersection to S. Bayview St. that spaces along Chief Sealth Trail, such and operational analysis to un- shows a possible new cross-sec- as play areas, community gardens derstand the traffi c volumes that tion which includes landscaped and pocket parks, to encourage use. would be diverted, eff ects upon median where possible, and other congestion especially at intersec- features such as a parking lane. 7. Use health impacts assessments tions, geometric requirements, This design would require addi- to help ensure that transportation and the need to acquire additional tional ROW from private land- projects consider accessibility, liv- rights-of-way (ROW). Both existing owners. (Note: Before any design ability and health quality. and future conditions would need alterations could be accomplished, to be studied before any decision SDOT would have to conduct an 8. Evaluate an “MLK Jr. Way S. can be made about this alterna- operational analysis of any pro- re-route” that would route through- tive. Currently, there is no funding posed changes. This analysis would traffi c from Rainier Ave. S. to MLK for such an analysis, engineering, include impacts upon levels of con- Jr. Way S. from the Rainier Ave. S./ design, or construction.) gestion, especially at intersections, MLK Jr. Way S. intersection. See and transit speed and reliability. conceptual street cross-section op- 9. Develop street design cross-sec- Both existing and future conditions tions on page 17. tions for Rainier Ave. S. that support may need to be studied. Currently, • This strategy calls for the rerout- a more pedestrian-oriented shop- there is no funding for such an ing of through-traffi c from Rainier ping area. analysis, engineering, design, or Ave. S. to MLK Jr. Way S. at the construction.) Rainier Ave. S. and MLK Jr. Way S.

www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi Appendices and Acknowledgments

Appendices Updating the Comprehensive Plan Neighborhood Plan The appendices are posted This document shows how completed in 1999 online at www.seattle.gov/dpd/ the revised North Rainier NeighborhoodPlanUpdates Neighborhood Plan Element of Baseline Report the City’s Comprehensive Plan dated March 2009 includes Work Plan updates and weaves together the highlights of the 1999 The attached work plan adds Goals and Policies from the 1999 Neighborhood Plan and 2009 Actions to the Goals, Policies and Neighborhood Plan and those that statistics Strategies, and formats them into a emerged from this 2009 Update document that can be used to guide process. Meeting Materials and Notes the Community’s and City’s work to from the March, May and achieve the community’s goals. Recommended Changes to the September 2009 meetings, and City’s Comprehensive Plan Planning Outreach Liaison Glossary meetings.

Acknowledgments Chinese speaking community In acknowledgment of the Khmer speaking community participation of thousands of Seniors & People Living with committed Seattleites. Disabilities Youth Including: Native American & Alaskan Native Mount Baker Community Club community Rainier Chamber of Commerce Spanish speaking community Southeast District Council Feet First Commissions Great City Seattle Planning Commission International Sustainable Solutions Seattle Design Commission Scan Design Foundation Sound Transit City of Seattle Lead Participants University of Washington, Department of Planning and College of Built Environments Development Neighborhood Planning Advisory Department of Neighborhoods Committee Seattle Department of Transportation Planning Outreach Liaisons Seattle Parks and Recreation Somali speaking community Oﬃ ce of Housing Amharic speaking community Oromiﬀ a speaking community The City of Seattle Tigrinya speaking community Interdepartmental Team African American community incorporated the contributions of Vietnamese speaking community over 20 agencies and departments. Tagalog speaking community

North Rainier Neighborhood Plan Update 19 www.seattle.gov/dpd/planning/neighborhood_planning I www.seattle.gov/neighborhoods/npi January 2010