Rare, 1964 photos of flooding along what is now Bear Creek Shopping Center.

"I was at the King County archives last March looking for photos of the Cadman Gravel pit and found these photos of flooding along Bear Creek dated January 2, 1964. For reference, Redmond Way and the railroad tracks run parallel through the photos and cross Bear Creek just south of what is now the Bear Creek Shopping Center. The original photos were sharper -- I'm not a very good photographer so these are slightly out of focus. Let me know if these photos arrive.

--Susan Wilkins, geologist
Education Hill - PTSA volunteer
Redmond, WA.

by Susan Wilkins

* With Ms. Wilkins permission, these photos were shared with the Redmond Historical Society and Steve Hitch, C.O.R. Stormwater Engineer.

City Council approves funding for BMX park study

Two community driven public meetings, two youth field trips, two work parties, passionate volunteers, and an intense staff effort may soon lead to a new Redmond dirt jump park for bicycles --  Bicycle Motocross (BMX)!   (photo - City Planner Carolyn Hope facilitates a clay modeling dirt jump workshop at Horace Mann; a councilmember, two consultants and parents attended.)  

Last Tuesday, the Council approved (6-1) a proposal to hire a consultant to move the community-driven dirt jumps forward.  Councilmember Richard Cole was the only NO vote. 

According to the city, "the contractor proposed for this project would begin immediately and participate in community meetings regarding site selection and design concepts. Once the design is permitted, the contractor will hold training sessions for the builders, who will primarily be volunteers from the community and some city staff. Construction is anticipated to be complete by early summer".  (photo shows BMX youth and parents after a day of forest restoration near the jumps.)

The contractor's fee is $61,000.  Some in the community are concerned about pouring more money into the parks, public works art, and other projects when the economy is so depressed and public safety funding has needs.  Fortunately, "new money" is not needed for the dirt jump project.

The City Council approved a budget of $179,652 for the Trail Development Plan for 2009 and 2010.
By the grace of God, the "Trail Development Plan" budgets are still unused leaving, $100,000 for design and construction of this project.  Presto we have the funds for the contractor!

The final hurdle Council faced was considering  two alternate options to the present city water utility property site.   The Administration recommends looking at two alternate site options in Hartman Park (away from the sports fields) in case the water utility property isn't secured.   The contractor will assess all three sites for critical areas, cost drainage, and size of the jump course.  Community meetings will soon be held to engage the Hartman Community Park users and neighborhoods.  Council will make the final site decision.    

Dirt Jump city website:  http://www.redmond.gov/insidecityhall/parksrec/parksplanning/DirtJumps/default.asp.

City link to document showing dirt bike site locations and  BMX youth repairing tree damage and jumps.  (scroll down for pictures) http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/20091201pdfs/AM09264.pdf

photos and editing by Bob Yoder

Administration requests $226,220 to track groundwater recharge and potential influx of contaminants.

The Administration is requesting $226,220 for groundwater monitoring engineering services at their 10/20/09 City Council Meeting.   

UPDATED 10/21, City Council approved the funding for this project.  We (Administration) propose installing twelve additional groundwater monitoring wells and three "high pressure water monitors" at selected sites for use in conjunction with surveying and monitoring. The proposed monitoring facilities are designed to track the recharge of groundwater and the potential influx of contaminants into the Redmond alluvial aquifer.  We propose contracting for professional engineering services in an amount of $226,220 for the Groundwater Monitoring Network Project.

The objective is to obtain additional monitoring data that will lead to a better understanding of movement of groundwater and contaminants within the Critical Aquifer Recharge Area (CARA) and understand the primary mechanisms by which groundwater in the City’s alluvial aquifer is recharged. Three principal recharge processes are recognized, as follows:

 Direct infiltration of surface water flows into Bear Creek, Evans Creek, Sammamish River.

 Stormwater infiltration from retention ponds, vaults, storm drains and other infiltration facilities throughout the City; and infiltration through previous surfaces (dirt, sand, beddings, grass, etc.)

 Upland runoff that percolates into the margins of the alluvial aquifer at the valley floor.

Documents and Maps of the critical recharge areas, proposed groundwater monitoring wells and pressure monitors and streams  : http://redmond.gov/insidecityhall/citycouncil/20091020pdfs/AM09225.pdf

BACKGROUND
The City of Redmond operates five shallow groundwater supply wells that deliver between 3.5 and 5 million gallons of water per day, supplying approximately 40 percent of Redmond’s drinking water. These five wells, which draw from the shallow alluvial aquifer, are located in the heart of Redmond’s downtown and industrial areas, and are highly susceptible to contamination due to the local geology and proximity to potential pollution sources. In October 2003, the City Council adopted a wellhead protection ordinance to meet federal, state, and regional requirements for the protection of the Critical Aquifer Recharge Area (CARA) and the City’s drinking water supply. An important requirement of the ordinance is the establishment of a city-wide groundwater monitoring program to detect the presence of contaminants and declines in water levels before they impact a water supply well.

Hazardous Materials Questionnaire and Aquifer Map.
Source:  Redmond City Council Consent Agenda, 10/20/09

posted by Bob Yoder

City Council approves the Shoreline Master Plan Update after 10 years of study.

UPDATED, 9/15:  The Shoreline Master Program consists of policies and standards that regulate land uses and development located approximately 200 feet within Bear Creek, Evans Creek, Lake Sammamish, and the Sammamish River, and includes some of these waterbodies’ associated wetlands and floodplains.   An update to the old Master Plan has been in the works for over 10 years.   At tonight's meeting, Council reviewed final edits by the State Department of Ecology and approved the D.O.E. edits.  The Update was approved on 9/15, 5-1 with Mr. Cole dissenting.  Kim Allen was absent.  

The Principal Planner Cathy Beam received rave reviews by the Council for her long and hard work completing the Shoreline Master Plan Update.   Mr. Carson spoke highly of the significant public involvment generated by this Update.   Councilmember Allen, a Hearing Examiner in Kitsap County, thought Redmond's Update was one of the best she's seen.  Most of my personal field work and input was directed towards preserving and maintaining the high intensity Evans Creek industrial riparian buffer. It is at best only 50 feet.

Some of the changes made by Washington State Department of Ecology can be found within the following paragraphs:  

• “In any High Intensity/Multi-Use location within a buffer where the land is actively being used as part of a legitimate business operation, such land including either structures or active operational areas, established prior January 1, 2008  may continue to operate. New structures, pavement, and other improvements are permitted within this area so long as incremental environemtal benefits is provided and no net loss of shoreline ecological functions is demonstrate

• The Washington Department of Ecology added this paragraph:   “Use the City’s established permit tracking program to periodically evaluate the effectiveness of the Shoreline Master Program update for achieving no net loss of shoreline ecological functions with respect to shoreline permitting and exemptions. Prepare an evaluation report every seven years when the SMP is required to be updated under RCW 90.58.080(4).”

View the entire list of changes made by the Washington State Department of Ecology here.
 
Redmond Shorelines are dynamic and changing.   Bear Creek is being relocated right now to make way for SR520.  The city plans to relocate Evans Creek north and away from the Industrial District within the near future. (5-10 years).   Evans Creek is salmon bearing.  With this in mind, the city and citizens will have to be attentive to incremental land use on the Evans buffer.

Mayor Marchione To Visit Schools, Teaching Groundwater Protections

If you are a regular Redmond Neighborhood Blog reader you know the importance and value of protecting Redmond's groundwater. Approximately, 40% of our city drinking water comes from "sandy, underground lakes and streams" known as aquifers. Citizens living in Education Hill, SE Redmond, the Downtown, and North Redmond all drink treated, underground water pumped up from 5 city wells.

I discovered an entertaining short cartoon video about 'groundwater' and it's importance and value to us. It is directed to kids and teachers but many parents and youth will be engaged by the animation. Click the link to see it!

Mayor John Marchione plans to visit various Redmond elementary schools this year, according to his interview on RCTV last month. I believe he'll start off at Norman Rockwell, the school he attended in his youth. Perhaps, "Mayor John" will bring this groundwater video to the attention of the teachers and students during his school visits.

Many thanks to the Water Tenders, a leader of Redmond's Derby Days "Green Team". The video is posted on their website: http://watertenders.org/. My daughter Lexie, Pam and I are proud members,

Children's video on "groundwater". http://www.leapingmedia.com/groundwater.html
Water Tenders website: http://watertenders.org/
Meet the Mayor - 2nd interview: http://rctv.redmond.gov/ondemand/inside0709b.wmv

-- posted by Yoder

OPINION: Independence from my grinding Watch on groundwater quality.

UPDATED, 7/8 - OPINION: Five years ago, a friend and I came upon a hazardous waste site on Evans Creek. The waste was dumped on top of a shallow City wellhead aquifer. The discovery eventually led to a crack-down by 9 regulatory agencies to clean up the site. This experience led to the birth of this blog and my zealous reporting on City protections of our underground drinking water.

This being the eve of July 4th, I'm happy to shout freedom from my "city watch" over the safety of our drinking water aquifer. (I know the City is happy, too.) As of tomorrow, I will stop grinding my axe on the issue. Why now? It's simple. I've watched the Marchione Administration for two years cope with the challenges of protecting our groundwater aquifers and I'm confident we are in very good hands. THIS Administration has replaced the mad scrambles and PR campaigns of the past with a fresh transparency to the challenges and solutions of a more secure wellhead water.

The genuine, transparency exhibited by the Mayor and his staff, of late, was all I needed to claim my independence! Last Tuesday night four staff members (including a stormwater engineer and geologist) -- backed up by the confident DNR Manager and Public Works Director -- covered ALL the sensitive issues...and ones new to me.

The display of transparency was impressive and re-assuring. A few of the points made were, as follows:

• The City is fully vested in protecting our wells! For example, Well #5 supplies 1/3 of the city's drinking (well)water capacity. If Well #5 went down it would cost taxpayers $800,000 per year to replace the water and over $12 Million just to hook into a new pipe. Full protection of our groundwater is a good investment and worth every penny.
• 110 parcels have been identified as threats to untreated stormwater entering the aquifer. Landowner's stormwater fees will be lowered to help them with the expense of retrofitting of these systems, to treat stormwater before it infiltrates into the ground.
• Underground parking is becoming common in Downtown. Often permanent "de-watering" (removing water) is required since the Downtown sits over a very shallow aquifer. The City is on top of this. (no pun).
• Hazardous materials are methodically identified and secondary containment is enforced.
• This information was gathered from the last part of Council's taped June 30 Study Session, linked here: http://rctv.redmond.gov/ondemand/CC063009.wmv

Do you have any comments on this? Thanks to Mayor Marchione and his staff for a very difficult job being well done! I can rest in peace. Free at last!

The cost of good water quality & what we can do.

Two water tanks adjacent Horace Mann El. were repainted inside and out, retrofitted for safety and seismically upgraded for a total cost of $2.8 million.

OPINION: There is no question, the City is investing heavily into our water supply infrastructure, water quality assurance and water conservation programs. Did you know that residents east of Lake Sammamish and the Sammamish River get all their water from the ground?

• The City has spent millions of dollars retrofitting wellheads to improve treatment and safety standards. ~$11.5 million was recently spent by the City just to upgrade the two wellheads at Anderson Park. Expensive land had to be purchased to save Anderson Park during the wellhead upgrades.
  
• The City plans to build a Regional Stormwater Treatment Center in SE Redmond to treat industrial stormwater before it infiltrates into the shallow aquifer (underground lake). A $40 million regional treatment plant is already underway for the downtown. Overlake Regional Facilty is next. Treating dirty stormwater is expensive, as you see on your utility bill, but the regional systems will reduce costs over time.
  
• Redmond is a member city of the Cascade Water Alliance. Growing eastside cities would eventually run out of drinking water without a new water source. The Alliance is raising millions of dollars to build a pipeline from the Mt. Ranier watershed to the Eastside. **Emmons glacier on Mt. Ranier is receding but plans are proceeding. Lake Tapps has been secured to store the glacial mountain water before it's piped to the Eastside.

• Redmond spends a lot of money monitoring for spills and hazardous waste. The City has it's own geologist to oversee groundwater water quality and monitor the protection zones for our wells. Recently, a potential diesel spillage was discovered and quickly addressed with funding from Council for qualified inspection services.

Some great news came out of the the City Water Quality Report, Summer 2009. Did you see it? With all the talk about the safety of our groundwater supply it appears all is well - no pun intended. Did you read that four (4) fewer "compounds" were detected in our groundwater as compared to the Tolt River watershed that supplies residents west of the river? The city's investment in our groundwater supply definitively appears to be paying off.

One of the more significant contaminants now entering our water supply are pharmaceuticals. Councilmember Margeson brought this up at the last Council meeting and handed me the information. When pills and pharmaceuticals are flushed down the toilet or thrown in the garbage they NEVER get treated. And, we could be drinking them. Low levels of pharmaceuticals in drinking water have been found in 24 cities. Get this, pharmaceutical chemicals have been found in about 80% of our nation's urban streams. Please don't flush or trash 'em! Take your unused pills to a pharmacy for disposal. Group Health, Bartell and others participate.

It's estimated that over 120,000 gallons of water is saved per day by Redmond's Conservation Program. Don't forget to tap into the toilet and clothes washer rebates and check your outdoor faucets and hoses before you go on vacation! You can save a bundle. I learned the hard way.

** Read my '07 post on the receeding glaciers that are feeding the Cascade Alliance water pipeline.

Email your questions to Tom Fix, tfix@redmond.gov, City Water Quality Team.
Cascade Water Alliance informational video clip.
Cascade Water Alliance website.

The Administration plans to add an environmental education component to their new flood mitigation plan.

Severe Bear Creek flooding behind the Safeway and Redmond Town Center may be less common when the new Flood Mitigation Plan is fully implimented.

Redmond travelers, business owners, and residents have continual concerns about winter flooding hitting our area. Tom Fix, stormwater engineer for the City of Redmond and others in the Administration have worked hard to provide a Comprehensive Flood Hazard Plan for Greater Redmond. The complete update is posted on the city website

The City Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has played a key role on flood mitigation. According to Mr. Hitch, the City has been working to :

• update the City's Hazard Mitigation Plan for all disasters, including flooding. The County is proceeding with flood plain mapping for the river.
• improve the lower channel of Bear Creek as part of WSDOT's construction of four additional lanes to SR520.
• improve habitat restoration along the river that includes removal of some soil, improving flood capacity and planting of native vegetation.
  
• promote "limited impact development" (LID ) , particularly in North Redmond. LID practices should reduce surface flow, and thereby reduce flooding.
  
• mitigate risks to our groundwater protection zones from hazardous materials during flood events; this is part of the evaluation of the City's groundwater protection program.
  
• develop a new water quality facility that may be built in 2009 or 2010 near Bear Creek. This project will include an educational component that will address floodplain issues.

Environmental education and riparian (stream habitat) corridor restoration is icing on the cake. Thanks Steve Hitch, DNR, and the Administration for your dilligence and efforts!

Any of your flood related questions can be directed to Steve Hitch, 425-556-2891 or shitch@redmond.gov

Redmond's Comprehensive Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan city web page.

"THIS PLACE MATTERS" - Perrigo Springs

THIS PLACE MATTERS.

Perrigo Springs was the Redmond's first "watering hole." Indians and early settlers first used the spring.

The spring's water source is the Hartman wetland watershed.  Perrigo Creek drains the wetland into the springs. Upper Perrigo Creek is a dry stream bed much of the time. The underground water springs up at the spillway.

Children and dogs are often found playing in the cool waters behind the spillway. These children were floating cork boats  My friend Richard Morris, with his dog Sadie, were at the spring to take a picture for the "National Trust for an Historic Preservation" contest  --"THIS PLACE MATTERS."  Squint hard or click the photo to read the sign these kiddos are holding. Water pooling behind the spillway with beautiful moss covering stone cobble are behind them. The riparian vegetation is beautiful.  I've seen folks softly playing their guitars and meditating on the spillway.

"Daughters of the American Colonists" placed a rock marker and planted a Corkscrew tree near the spring.  Here's some history:

Perrigo Springs was purchased by the Redmond Water Department in 1914 and was the first water supply for the newly incorporated town of Redmond. A dam was originally constructed to impound the water for storage, with the transmission main a 4” to 8” wood stave pipe. This site was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and served as a major source of supply until 1962.

Department of Natural Resources uses digital photography to map impervious surfaces for more accurate stormwater billing.

Stormwater treatment infiltration pond next to Evans Creek. Infiltration systems on sensitive Evans Creek properties will be more closely monitored by the City.

UPDATED, 5/21. Opinion: The council voted (7-0) last night to modify stormwater billing to improve billing accuracy. New digital aerial mapping technology allows stormwater engineers to more accurately identify all impervious surfaces (roads, parking, structures) that contribute to dirty stormwater run-off. According staff, an "opt-out" condition only applies to the city-center (downtown) sub-basin, and is only applicable to properties within that sub-basin that are adjacent to the Sammamish River. No change in treatment requirements will apply from this ordinance.

The SW industrial businesses (R.I.C.E.) earlier had lobbied for "infiltration" and against regional treatment improvements. Staff is working with RICE to develop an assessment for existing infiltration systems, and to develop a process and timeline to modify existing systems (if necessary) to reduce risk to the aquifer. The City is building a SW Regional Treatment Plant to treat dirty stormwater more comprehensively and economically along the industrial district of Evans Creek and SW Redmond. Councilmembers Hank Myers and Pat Vache' lended their support to the R.I.C.E. industries during negotiations.

The Administration made some concessions to pass the modification. With staff approval, industries and landowners living adjacent the river would be allowed to "opt out" from hooking into the new Downtown Regional Stormwater Facility. To qualify for reduced rates, a professional engineer would have to make sizing and cost estimates for properties building a private water treatment facility. Department of Ecology water quality standards must still be met. A business could "opt out" for lower rates if their plan was approved by the Staff. Another concession, driven by Myers, was to allow businesses to appeal their bill by October, 2009. Landowners who "opt out" will be reimbursed for the value of their land lost to an on-site facility. Finally, staff had requested that "gravel" count as an impervious surface. The Administration and council decided not to include gravel as impervious, but to study and decide on the issue by December, 2010.

The new digital photography mapping techniques to identify parcels with impervious surfaces is more accurate than on site visits. 78 letters have been mailed to property owners with NEW stormwater bills. Also, the unit measurement of impervious has been "truncated" which will bring higher revenues to the city. In addition, billing by parcel, rather than property owner will add to revenues. Credits will be given for "rain harvesting".

Public Works Director Bill Campbell and Stormwater Manager Jon Spangler, have been progressive and innovative in meeting city needs for cleaner water, all the while, dancing the political jig for council and property owners. Councilmember Hank Margeson concluded the billing modification was really all about cleaner water for our streams (and aquifer zones). Margeson Chairs the Planning & Public Works Committee.

Link to the Modified Stormwater billing ordinance

draft

Politics hits the Council during Stormwater rate debate.

Filthy stormwater in SE Redmond Industrial District is soaking into Evans Creek aquifer protection zone soils ~200 feet from Evans Creek. The city plans a SE Regional Treatment Plant that must be funded in large part by stormwater fees.

Updated 4/7, OPINION: At their last meeting, City Council evaluated and considered adjusting stormwater fees to better account for "impervious surfaces". Impervious surfaces create polluted stormwater which must be treated and cleaned by the City. If the stormwater is not adequately treated our aquifer could become endangered. Our aquifer is an "underground reservoir" that supplies City drinking water.

The bulk of the conversation was about how to hold SE Redmond industries accountable for their "fair share" of the costs in treating stormwater running off of their polluted impervious surfaces. It's possible Cadman Gravel, Watson Asphalt, AWR, Genie Industries and other SE industries have impervious surfaces for which they are not being adequately billed. In addition, impervious surfaces created by new and "unfound" buildings are being identified throughout the city. Even the gravel parking lot in King County's 60 Acres Park South was "found" would by the Administration's new digitalized aerial photography. The county lot be assessed for stormwater treatment if council okays the Administration's current proposal.

The Marchione Administration is looking into all these scenarios and wants to keep rates fair and accountable using the Best Available Science. Same with Council. However, Council's review is politically charged because of "R.I.C.E.", a long-standing and historically entrenched lobby for the Redmond SE industrial district. A R.I.C.E. lobbyist was sitting "front and center" during the Council meeting; so close to Council that certain members could literally read her lips.

The R.I.C.E. associate has seemingly "wrapped her arms" around several of our older councilmembers. Newly elected Councilmember Hank Myers is heavily obligated and Councilmember Pat Vache' doesn't seem too far behind. Much of R.I.C.E success comes from their financial and networking support for councilmembers during elections. Councilmembers Allen and possibly Margeson appear politically untouched by R.I.C.E. Both have won their seat with broad support from the Neighborhoods. Margeson won support from businesses, too.

The SE industrial influence on city government began years ago with the powerful "industrialists" like Cadman Gravel. Cadman has been around longer than the City itself. They and other SE industries have been a large tax base for Redmond over the years - from day one. My guess is "the good old boy" network has thrived for years and has become a tradition. The coming of Microsoft, rapid population growth, and "need for green" could be impacting political alignments.

The City Administration, led by Stormwater Manager Jon Spangler, announced during the meeting, a new and more accurate method of measuring impervious surfaces. Mr. Spangler is highly regarded by Sammamish/Cedar River Regional Watershed community (WRIA 8). Impervious surfaces are undesirable because they increase stormwater run-off and treatment costs. Generally, the more impervious on your property the higher your rate. Examples of impervious surfaces are roads, parking lots, roofs, and vehicles parked on creek banks. The impervious surface getting the most attention last night was gravel -- yes, gravel. City code defines gravel as impervious. (Our city parks consultant Guy Michealson confirmed this during his evaluation of park trail materials.) The Administration is building an expensive SE Regional Stormwater Treatment Facility. The stormwater revenue generated from "fair share" billing will go towards paying for facility.

Councilmember Pat Vache' wanted to delay most of the new charges until after 2010 owing to the Recession. Did Mr. Vache' forget about his vote to raise neighborhood property taxes 1% taxes starting this year while leaving the businesses untaxed? Councilmember Kimberly Allen wanted to qualify "impervious surfaces" using Best Available Science before moving on. Some wanted citizens and businesses to have a chance to appeal the new charges or to phase them in. Another meeting will he held to review the Administration's proposal.

Pat Vache' and Kimberly Allen are running for re-election to Council this year so I will be highlighting their activities and decisions as they come up.

Hazardous Waste spill east of Marymoor Park is being evaluated.

During council "consent agenda" proceedings tonight the Mayor requested emergency funding to evaluate possible groundwater contamination from hydraulic fluid at Fire Station No. 16 Maintenance Shop.

Fire Station No. 16 is located at 6205 185th Avenue NE just East of Marymoor Park. Redmond has six fire stations and their locations can be found on a city map by clicking Fire Station No. 16. It's interesting to see where the City stations are located relative to our neighborhoods.

The Maintenance Shop provides a full-range of apparatus repair and maintenance services for the City of Redmond and for King County Fire Protection District 34.

A hydraulic hoist is used to conduct maintenance on Fire apparatus. A release of hydraulic fluid, a hazardous material, from the hoist cylinder has been discovered and it is urgent to find out if the release of hydraulic fluid has impacted soil and groundwater beneath the facility. A subsurface investigation of the soil and groundwater beneath the facility is required to discover if a plan for appropriate remedial measures is needed.

The Public Works Department and Fire Department are very cognizant and cautious about protecting our groundwater and this emergency action is proof the city responds quickly to hazardous waste issues.

My only recommendation is the City use biodegradable, vegetable-based hydraulic fluid , whenever possible. The City has been groping with defining what 'green' means as the City builds. A category for biodegradable petroleum supplies seems appropriate.

Any comments?

Slide show of 2009 Flooding in Washington - beyond words

View 2009 Washington Flood Slide Show (click)

CLICK ON SMALL BLUE LINK ABOVE TO START THE SLIDE SHOW.

(click the "full" button to enlarge the slides)

FROM: Steve Hitch, Redmond Stormwater Engineer

EMAIL (excerpt): Members of the Flood Hazard Management Advisory Committee, 1/17

"As you have watched flooding happening in other communities around Puget Sound, and we here in Redmond have come away relatively unscathed, we are thankful that our situation has not resulted in a major flood here. We are mindful that all it takes is for Redmond to receive a large storm event impacting the Bear Creek Basin followed by a few weeks of heavy rains that raise the lake level. That combination could result in the 100-year flood that fills up Redmond.

... Should the City have posted evacuation routes in the floodplain? Should we do flood drills? Should our emergency center be prepared to use the reverse 911 system to notify our neighbors of potential inundation? Send me your thoughts and I can see how those ideas may be incorporated into the City's short and longer term plans."

--Steve Hitch, P.E. Sr. Stormwater Engineer City of Redmond, Public Works Department Natural Resources Division, Redmond, Washington 425/556-2891 draft

_______________________________________________________________________

Or, post your comments at the end of this story or by email to redmondblog@gmail.com.

Many thanks to my next-door neighbor Larry Pawlowski for sending the slide show.

Most trees in Redmond's oldest city park are saved - for a price

I just got home from the "Arts in the Park" event at Anderson Park and thought of this 2008 report when looking at an historical society exhibit. The photos are poorly displayed but it's better than nothing! Bob Yoder, 6/25/16

Anderson Park is Redmond's oldest park and also the home for two city drinking water wells. The wellheads are old and are being replaced. To save many of the park trees the city bought some expensive land a block north to house the treatment plant. 6 trees still had to be removed; 2 were unhealthy. The Board of Parks commissioners led by Chair Lori Snodgrass fought hard for this expensive proposal to preserve Anderson Park. Councilman Vache requested a "fiscal note" to recognize the high cost ($11.6M) of the project.

water treatment construction off-site..................................truck is drilling new well in park

View 1.5 minute video clip of Anderson Park under construction HERE

The photo on he right is looking south to one of Anderson Park's old pump houses. It was removed. Click the City of Redmond Notice sign to read the price tag for this project. In my narration I said two new wellheads were "drilled." This is not the case. After this video there's an interesting video on the construction of  Bear Creek Parkway.

City Description of Proposal: To comment or request information contact: city planner

Steve Fischer

CONSTRUCTION OF NEW PUMP HOUSES TO REPLACE TWO AGING, OUTDATED WELL FACILITIES LOCATED WITHIN ANDERSON PARK

(7802 168TH AVE NE). THE PROJECT WILL INCLUDE APPROX. 520 FEET OF NEW 12 INCH WATERLINE BETWEEN THE WELL HOUSES AND THE TREATMENT BUILDING. THE NEW PUMP HOUSES WILL BE APPROX. 16' X 24' IN SIZE AND DESIGNED TO REFLECT THE HISTORIC LOG CABIN APPEARANCE OF THEIR STRUCTURES IN THE PARK. THE ASSOCIATED TREATMENT FACILITY WILL BE LOCATED ONE BLOCK NORTH ON PROPERTY AND WILL BE 44' X 58' IN SIZE. A PACKED TOWER APPROX. 30 FT IN HEIGHT WILL BE USED TO ALTER THE PH OF THE WELL WATER. THE PROJECT WILL IMPROVE AND OPEN THE ALLEY TO TRAFFIC ON THE WEST SIDE...

Bob Yoder

Leary Way Regional Stormwater Treatment "Wetland"

Leary Stormwater Run-Off Treatment Facility "Wetland" under construction

As you drive into Redmond on Leary Way you'll notice construction of a large earthen "lake" to the east. It's actually one of five new regional stormwater treatment facilities the city is building to service Redmond's downtown. This wetland facility will drain Leary Way, 198th, and Bear Creek Parkway. The 6 month floods will will drain into the Sammamish River. The city is calling it a "wetland". 75 trees will be planted around the facility. The Redmond Dept. of Natural Resources will plant native shrubs and aquatic plants in two feet of wetland mix soil throughout the pond. You can see the impermeable plastic liner under the soil -- to keep the water close to the plants. Some day it may look and function like a wetland. To get the straight scoop on this project, city planner Kelsey Larson may be able to help you.

Redmond's Senior Stormwater Engineer Steve Hitch designed this innovative project and had the following to say about it:

The City project at Leary Way & 159th Place NE is a future Stormwater Treatment Wetland. The pond was lined with a PVC geomembrane so it will not leak. Stormwater will flow through the pond to remove sediment and other pollutants, with help from biological contact with the wetland plants. The pond must be lined so that the water is treated before being released to the environment, and so that the wetland plants are kept wet. The pond will look a bit messy as they bring in the topsoil that will overlay the liner and until they plant the pond, but the contractor will be required to keep any muddy water from being released to the river. 10-08-08

View a 4 Min. video clip of the stormwater wetland pond under construction here .

For technical information on stormwater treatment wetland facilities visit: Stormwater Wetland Facts.

Editorial - the Magic of Mayor Marchione

The pace of change and events in Redmond has increased exponentially since John Marchione was elected Mayor, joined the Sound Transit Board and began his work. Enhanced transparency of government operations and a well oiled council machine move city actions and events faster than can be reported. To be frank, it's impossible to keep up as a 1-man nonprofit neighborhood reporter.

Mayor John Marchione is off to a fast start. Just off the top of my head, I can think of many positive actions and events of the first seven months of the John Marchione Administration. Of course, there are bumps along the road and a mayor's work is never done, but Mr. Marchione is generally doing a fantastic job. Here are my thoughts about Mr. Mayor's progress:

1. Improvement and transparency of Open Meeting policies, Public Records Requests, Council Committee activities, participation of commissions in Council Meetings, and increased public participation by staff members previously unseen. Council meetings are efficient, productive and documented online for the public.

2 Reaching out to citizens to engage our neighborhoods by: promoting Neighborhood Block Watch potluck gatherings and looking into "Neighborhood Associations", keeping a watchful eye on the Redmond Neighborhood Blog, enhancing Derby Days with extra support from Microsoft, Geni Industries, and small businesses, providing a Neighborhood Land Use map on the city website, and yes, team building with fire and police during the First-ever Dodgeball tournament at Redmond High School!

2. Making the Budget process more palatable and participatory for the neighborhoods by prioritizing citizen needs. Providing document links to the online Consent Agenda to expose budget decisions.

3. Improving traffic and pedestrian safety by problem solving controversial road projects like the Bear Creek Parkway Extension, Redmond-Woodinville widening idea, 166th Ave rechannelization and RJH stop light project and on. At a recent Conference of Mayors Mayor Marchione demonstrated leadership for bicycle commuting. John is an influential member of the well connected Sound Transit Board.

4. Proving to be as "green" -if not more so - as previous administrations by: Bringing out the best of our already top-notch Natural Resources staff to upgrade our stormwater management systems with state of the art regional plans for Overlake, Downtown, and SE Redmond urban centers. Funding reforestation programs with the Cascade Conservancy to remove riparian invasives, recruit youth for stream restoration, hire a geologist and "aquifer team" to sustain the quality and affordability of our drinking water. Work with inter-local governments, like county councilmember Kathy Lambert to improve our Evans and Bear Creek shorelines and safeguard our aquifer; and converse with Rep. Ross Hunter to assist Cole and Allen secure SR 520 widening species protections and flood mitigation.

5. Swift and open acknowledgment of serious needs for affordable housing. John invited Art Sullivan, Manager of ARCH eastside affordable housing, to present solutions to council. Funding was quickly approved to help service-workers, teachers & young adults of Redmond families afford a place to live in Redmond and reduce fuel consumption.

6. Parks are expanding. A string of 5 rural parks along historic Bear Creek East of Avondale will be developed and connected by a trails. Environmental education and heritage centers will occupy the park's historic buildings.

7. I have never seen staff happier or more empowered. John wasn't afraid to identify and cull the few "bad apples" early in his administration. City Hall staff was downtrodden by stalled salary and benefit negotiations under the prior administration for over a year. John and council swiftly dealt with the problem and re-energized the staff.

8. Mr. Mayor has put the exterior art "crystals" back on the city hall building RCTV. This, small act is a loud symbol of city pride and transparency. John has revitalized the Arts Commission with new goals to attract tourists and commuters with nationally renknowned art, like the coming Digital Arts Festival!

9. John's accomplished all this and he's only into 1/8 of his first term! I've reported on Mr. Mayor for over a year, including councilwork, 5 months of his mayoral candidacy and 7 months in office. And, he's been more active than I can report!

10. The reason for John's success? He doesn't let his ego get in the way of a good idea. He is willing and open to bend or change course when he sees a good thing. He listens, respects and values citizen and staff opinions and ideas, and responds! John is not afraid to put his ego aside and to achieve the best, consensual decision for the city. John will make you chuckle. John understands the numbers. And, he is bright.

As with all my opinion stories, your comments are welcome and encouraged by posting them below or emailing. For this Opinion, I will publish Letters submitted by citizens.

As I said, I just can't keep up with the pace of the Administration and our council! My neighborhood reporting is falling behind. Volunteer Kay Taraposli ("kid's topics") and Richard Morris ("parks & trails") and others gave me more work than I could review. Thus, I'm looking for funding to keep this non profit weblog, or a non-political version, running. If you can help with funding please email me at redmondblog@gmail.com. Thank you! Bob Yoder

FINAL Updated Opinion; Do SE Redmond industries have a valid alternative to the city's regional plan for managing filthy industrial stormwater?

FINAL UPDATES: "And the answer is..." - it appears the industries & city will achieve a workable variation to the city regional stormwater plan to allow infiltration, if necessary. County Councilmember Kathy Lambert will tour parts of the Evans Creek county shoreline with me and other city officials on 7/16. Kathy is also a Redmond resident.

UPDATED, 7/14 - King County Environmental Health Manager Fay reassured me that fecal coliform bacteria issues should probably not be a big concern in SE Redmond city septic systems. Many thanks to county councilmember Kathy Lambert for her assistance in this matter. Dave Garland of Ecology reported inconsequential fecal bacteria in Evans Creek, at this time.

Two unintended consequences arose today during my meeting with staff:
1) The inaccurate city-county "zoning jurisdictional city web map" caused undue strain and waste of staff and citizen time during this fact-finding process. 2) Presently, no planner is assigned to the SE Redmond industrial district to review permit applications on site for either conforming or nonconforming uses. Photos are not required by permit to monitor "creeping" of uses onto the Evans Creek tree-lined banks in SE Redmond. (Yet, photos by homeowners are required in residential tree removal permitting. In addition, unannounced on-site residential tree inspections were made by planners and the code enforcement officer, during Ives Administration....my home and my neighbor's for my tree permit).

Councilman Hank Margeson, Chair Public Works Committee reported at a recent council meeting I was concerned about the integrity and safety of the county septic systems in SE Redmond. This is innacurate and a misunderstanding; and probably attributed to the outdated & confusing jurisdictional map on the city website. I've since edited my article to clarify my concern is about city septic systems. Mr. Jon Spangler, DNR, was aware of my intentions and concern about aging city septic in SE Redmond at: Cadman Gravel 'Olympian PreCast,' Skanska, Rainier Welding and most likely Genie Industries. I may be requesting public records to identify & confirm the location of these septic systems (and the newer sewer lines partially servicing 192nd Ave. Ne ) city industrial. In talking to city Dept. of Nat. Resources, East Redmond Properties, LLC (Watson Asphalt Co.) appears hooked up to the sewer line on 192nd Ave NE, though the department was unsure if All Wood Recycling, Inc. (AWR) was hooked up to sewer...hmmm.
UPDATED, 6/26 - after a 30 minute conversation with Jon Spangler of the Department of Natural Resources today I learned the SE Redmond city septic systems are safely operating and probably good for at least another five years.

During the June 17 council meeting, Public Works presented a proposal that could move forward plans for a critical new regional city stormwater facility for SE Redmond. Staff's Regional city Stormwater Facilities plan for SE Redmond can be found HERE with map in its entirety. Excerpts from the proposal are below. You may find these snippets astounding or laugh nervously; I'm ecstatic the Marchione Administration is proposing a regional stormwater system for SE Redmond. The facility would service over 300 acres in the vicinity of Union Hill and 192th Ave. NE adjacent Evans Creek. Find a helpful satellite terrain map HERE of Evans Creek running through a section of city, SE Redmond industrial park.

Below are excerpts from the staff report:


"Stormwater infrastructure in the area is primarily characterized as uncontrolled flow of stormwater from paved surfaces into sandy gravel areas where the water seeps into the ground to enter groundwater flowing towards the City’s municipal drinking water wells." !

"With minimal stormwater infrastructure, this contaminated stormwater can flow into the City’s groundwater (drinking water supply) and into Evan’s Creek, jeopardizing water quality for both of those resources." !

"In response to the need to end the practice of infiltrating potentially contaminated stormwater in this area, and in response to three currently proposed projects (Costco, extension of 188th Ave NE, and Union Hill Road Phase 3) City staff have worked to identify and size potential regional stormwater facilities to meet the current and future needs in this watershed."

This is something! In review of the archived tape of the 6/17/08 Council meeting, it sounds like most of SE Redmond's untreated stormwater currently flows slowly towards Wellhead #5. According to the Public Works director, Wellhead 5 is our most productive well and very important to our supply for affordable drinking water.

"R.I.C.E" -- "Redmond Industries for a Clean Environment" lobbied Council last Tuesday to water-down the proposal to allow existing infiltration practices (against new municipal code) and to not implement the 50 year flood capacity of the facility. SE Redmond city businesses lies in a 100 year floodplain above a shallow aquifer but fortunately, city sewer has been installed in the last 2 years at most city businesses along Evans Creek, according to DNR.

Council may make a decision on the RICE proposal in their their July 1 meeting. Tune into RCTV Channel 21 Tuesday, 7:30 to follow it. According to city Jon Spangler of the Depart. of Nat. Resources, within the last two years SE Redmond city businesses have partially converted to city sewer. In past decades the city businesses relied exclusively on city septic tanks and septic drain fields to treat wastewater. The drain fields are decades old and are buried near the shallow aquifer.

Think about the benefits of sewer and regional stormwater when you look at the photo of this filthy city stormwater pond. This detention pond is the only one I'm aware of in SE Redmond. It's located adjacent Evans Creek on 42nd Street on city property. According Jon Spangler of Redmond Department of Natural Resources the surface water, ground water, and Evans creek is free of significant fecal coliform bacteria; and all existing city septic fields are maintained and not failing. Now that's reassuring!!

Take a quick look at the Department of Ecology's "Citizen Guide to Monitoring Streams - fecal coliform bacteria". Does this answer some of your concerns? Click this link to read my last story on "Evans Creek - what went wrong?" As with any opinion story, I am always open to hearing and sharing your opinion in the comments section below.

And not to forget, the City of Redmond "2007 Water Quality Report" has city contact information. This 2007 report was printed & delivered this summer of '08. The city's new slogan is: "Safe Drinking water is our highest priority". It sure looks like they are working hard towards that end. Thank you, Department of Natural Resources & Council for your efforts!

cc: city council, mayor, city clerk, WDOE.

Our drinking water quality then...and now

After Citizen Nao Harding read my earlier story about aging SE Redmond city septic systems, she submitted the following newspaper article printed 75 years ago in the East Side Journal. The Journal reporter is almost as entertaining as the county nurse! Nao is a co-founder of the
Redmond Historical Society.

Nao says:

"Frank Buckley's garage was at the northeast corner of 164th Av &
Redmond Wy. Buckley's was combo gas station, auto repair garage, bar [yep,
beer for the road]. This intersection was the hub of the traffic wheel
planned by Mayor Brown to bring all roads to Redmond, and thus, the busiest
stretch of road in town."

"That testing showed the water to be excellent, despite gas
and oil spilled, splashed and dripped at the site, makes one wonder if, back in
the day, our aquifer was so pure and deep that it could drink anything without
indigestion, or if perhaps the County nurse did her testing at the bar. "

--Contributed by Nao Hardy
Co-founder and past President of the Redmond Historical Society
Compiler and Editor of "Redmond Reflections, settlers to software"
To order Nao's "Redmond Reflections" soft cover, call 425-885-2919

Running with Dogs -- Ashford Trail

Contributed by Richard Morris
Here is how the city of Redmond describes Ashford Trail 1/4 mile: Soft surface equestrian and hiking trail linking Hartman Park with Avondale Road through the Ashford Park development along 180 Ave NE.
Ashford Trail has historical roots. This short trail follows alongside Perrigo Creek, which begins at the top of Education Hill, and ends when it joins Bear Creek. Perrigo Springs, long ago, served as the source of water for Redmond. The pioneer-day Perrigo Farm on top of Education Hill used water from Perrigo Springs.

Naomi Hardy, Redmond Historical Society, contributed this bit of history: "The little Perrigo Springs was purchased by the Redmond Water Department in 1914 and was the first water supply for the newly incorporated town of Redmond. A dam was originally constructed to impound the water for storage, with the transmission main a 4” to 8” wood stave pipe. This site was Redmond’s only water supply until 1927 and served as a major source of supply until 1962. Currently the spring is still there, trickling through a small, forested valley, past the city’s Perrigo Springs Reservoir and makes its way to Bear Creek. There is a wide trail near the spring that goes up Education Hill. Hikers and school kids and the curious use this trail".
Near the reservoir is a commemorative tree and plaque marking this historic water source. You can read more about historic Perrigo Springs on a previous post

Ashford Trail before it was widened and graveled by the City

You can enter the Ashford Trail from Avondale at 180th Ave. This is the entrace to Ashford Park, a condominium community in Redmond. Just drive (or bike) up 180th Ave, until the road ends. There is a water tower (recently renovated by the Water Department) and an old concrete dam across Perrigo Creek. A camera was installed at the top of the water tower to record people who might damage the marker and Corkscrew Willow tree.  See a map of this area.

Richard Morris with Saddie

You can also enter the Ashford Trail from the top of Education Hill where NE100th St ends at 171st Ave NE. The first 1/2 mile walk is flat, then the trail sharply descends to the water tower and becomes 180th Ave NE. If this steep trail looks to difficult, you can cross over Perrigo Creek and enter the "back side" of Hartman Park. This short connector trail comes out on 176th Ave NE (King County Swimming pool is located at the end of this street).

If you are adventurous, and like a hiking challenge, walk down Avondale (south towards Redmond Town Center), until you reach NE 88th PL . Go the end of the road, and you will find a trail leading up Education Hill. You can climb back up the hill (very steep) and the trail comes out at Nike Park. My companion dog, Sadie, is good at scrambling up the steep slope, but it is slow climb for me to find my footing on the loose forest soil.
Richard Morris, co-author, Education Hill neighborhood

OPINION: The importance of "regionalism" to mitigating SR520 environmental impacts

Watershed Resource Inventory Area 8 (WRIA-8)

At last night's Council "study session" Council President McCormick and Mayor Marchione talked about the importance and relevance of "regionalism" to our city. Redmond officials appear to be "speaking with one voice" on Regional issues.

Mayor Marchione is an active member on the Sound Transit Board. I've watched him on TV. He is sharp and stands out as a leader. Councilmembers Richard Cole and Nancy McCormick have been active on the growth management issues of Puget Sound Regional Council. I think councilmembers Allen, Myers and Vache have worked on the regional issues of Human Services

Management of our watershed is regional, as well. The above WRIA 8 map demonstrates the extent of Redmond's connection with other cities in our regional "watershed area". Our watershed area extends from Everett south to Greater Auburn! It's used in large part by the state Department of Ecology to monitor salmon populations, water quality and flooding in our region.

Marchione represents Redmond in policy on the WRIA-8 committee. Jon Spangler (Redmond Public Works Stormwater Manager) is the active participant in regular meetings. Mr. Spangler recently facilitated a joint meeting with three agencies about SR520 impacts.

Last night, Mayor Marchione talked about the importance of the WRIA-8 committee to mitigating the environmental and flooding impacts of the SR520 expansion from 4 to 8 lanes. Endangered salmon and safety from flooding are the key issues.

A Bellevue official (with the help of Jean White, WRIA-8 manager) wrote a letter to Governor Gregoire requesting mitigation. Woodinville (and Redmond) citizen activists contributed significant flood data used in the letter.

Thus, Bellevue, Woodinville, other WRIA-8 cities all cared about what was impacting Redmond from the SR520 expansion. Woodinville and Redmond citizen activists created a groundswell. They wrote letters and sent a short video clip here and photos of the 12/3 flood to Rep. Ross Hunter, Chairman of Finance (and other key representatives.) Indeed, the effort was regional!

Ross was very concerned from the inputs and is taking action to fund $7M to meander Bear Creek away from the highway expansion. Rep. Hunter recently announced a TOWN HALL MEETING at Redmond City Hall on May 20, 6pm. I urge neighbors to attend Rep. Hunter's meeting in force to encourage or support possible approval of funding!