HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-10-17 Planning Board PacketAgenda
Edmonds Planning Board
SPECIAL MEETING
BRACKETT ROOM
121 5TH AVE N, CITY HALL - 3RD FLOOR, EDMONDS, WA 98020
OCTOBER 17, 2024, 7:00 PM
Edmonds Planning Board Agenda
October 17, 2024
Page 1
MEETING INFORMATION
This is a Hybrid meeting: The in-person portion of the meeting will now be at 7PM in the
Brackett Room on the 3rd floor of City Hall. Zoom Link below for those attending online.
Meeting Link:https://edmondswa-
gov.zoom.us/s/87322872194?pwd=WFdxTWJIQmxITG9LZkc3K0huS0l4QT09 Meeting ID: 873 2287
2194 Passcode:007978
Or Telephone : US:US: +1 253 215 8782
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
We acknowledge the original inhabitants of this place, the Sdohobsh (Snohomish) people and
their successors the Tulalip Tribes, who since time immemorial have hunted, fished, gathered, and
taken care of these lands. We respect their sovereignty, their right to self-determination, and we
honor their sacred spiritual connection with the land and water.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
3. ANNOUNCEMENT OF AGENDA
4. AUDIENCE COMMENTS
5. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Comprehensive Plan Land Use, Housing, Climate Elements
8. NEW BUSINESS
9. PLANNING BOARD EXTENDED AGENDA
A. Extended Agenda
10. PLANNING BOARD CHAIR COMMENTS
11. PLANNING BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
12. ADJOURNMENT
Planning Board Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 10/17/2024
Comprehensive Plan Land Use, Housing, Climate Elements
Staff Lead: Shane Hope
Department: Planning & Development
Prepared By: Navyusha Pentakota
Background/History
Under the Growth Management Act (GMA) in Washington State, Housing and Land Use elements are
mandatory and the most extensive elements of the Comprehensive Plan.
The Land Use Element is a critical component that shapes the long-term vision of accommodating
growth and other community needs. It ensures that development is strategically planned to
accommodate growth while preserving the character and quality of life. The land use element outlines
the desired land use patterns and growth intensities and includes the Future Land Use Map, which will
guide future zoning changes.
Housing availability and affordability have been the major challenges nationwide. Henceforth,
Washington state’s Growth Management Act requires that jurisdictions “plan for and accommodate”
affordable housing for all economic segments of the population. In addition, the Puget Sound Regional
Council’s (PSRC) Multi-County Planning Policies (MPPs) and the Snohomish County Countywide Planning
Policies (CPPs) also require cities to plan and accommodate diverse types of housing addressing the
needs of various income levels.
Under GMA, the Office of Financial Management (OFM) projects population growth for Snohomish
County, which was further distributed to all cities and unincorporated urban growth areas to ensure that
the 20-year growth expectations used for GMA local plans are consistent across jurisdictions. The City of
Edmonds has an existing housing stock of 19,300 units per the 2020 census. According to the count’s
distribution of growth, there will be an estimated 28,073 housing units by the year 2044, which is an
approximate increase of 9,000 more housing units.
Even before the growth targets were assigned, Edmonds was ahead of the state to address the existing
affordable housing concerns, and formed the Citizens’ Housing Commission (CHC) in 2019, which met
monthly through December 2020. The CHC’s mission was to “develop, for City Council consideration,
diverse housing policy options designed to expand the range of housing (including rental and owned)
available in Edmonds - irrespective of age, gender, race, religious affiliation, physical disability, or sexual
orientation.
The Comprehensive Plan includes a crucial Climate element, added by legislation (HB1181) in 2023,
which mandates local plans to address climate goals. These elements must prioritize economic,
environmental, and social co-benefits while focusing on environmental justice to prevent worsening
health disparities. Although this element isn't due until 2029 for cities updating their plans in 2024,
Edmonds, as a coastal city, must proactively analyze and plan for climate change impacts. In 2023, the
city adopted a Climate Action Plan to set sustainability goals, which have been integrated into the
Comprehensive Plan's climate element to support balanced growth amid population increases.
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The draft Comprehensive Plan was released on October 3rd for public review and comments. Recent
discussions with the Planning Board focused on Capital Facilities, Utilities, and Community Culture and
Design elements, which received substantial feedback. The Land Use and Housing elements were
previously reviewed by the Planning Board and City Council, leading to revisions before the draft
publication. The final review of the revised Land Use and Housing elements will take place at the
Planning Board meeting on October 17th, where staff will also gather feedback on the Climate element.
Staff Recommendation
This is an informational briefing and discussion with the Planning Board on the draft goals and policies of
Land Use, Housing and Climate elements of the Comprehensive Plan.
Narrative
Recent 2023 legislation requires cities under the Growth Management Act (GMA) to include more
"missing middle" housing types and accessory dwelling units, addressing the pressing need for
affordable housing solutions. This issue affects not only low-income individuals but also working-class
residents in Edmonds. State initiatives promoting diverse housing options may gradually transition
zoning from single-family only to allow a variety of affordable housing types. Future land use must
support sustainable growth and efficient infrastructure development. Edmonds needs new strategies to
encourage diverse housing options and equitable growth, ensuring all residents have equal
opportunities regardless of their socio-economic or cultural backgrounds.
Edmonds stands out for its historic character and natural beauty, making it vital to maintain its identity
while accommodating new developments. New land-use designations should manage urban sprawl,
protect natural resources, and promote sustainable development while increasing density through a
clear framework.
The Growth Alternatives proposed this year aim to create vibrant neighborhoods with suitable and
affordable housing for all income levels, enhancing quality of life and promoting social equity.
Depending on the chosen Growth Alternative, significant changes in future land use designations will be
discussed in the Comprehensive Plan's Land Use element. The housing element will address the
distribution and types of housing needed to meet various income levels.
The Climate element, per GMA, must include two new sub-elements by state requirements: a
greenhouse gas emissions reduction sub-element, which outlines strategies to lower emissions, and a
resiliency sub-element, which focuses on mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change in alignment
with FEMA-compliant natural hazards mitigation plans. As this element is due in 2029, the current
update will present a high-level set of goals and policies from the Climate Action Plan to inform future
updates.
For the upcoming meeting on Oct 17th, staff recommends discussing the elements in the following order:
Land Use, Housing and Climate. As these are still working drafts, staff aims to identify areas needing
further specification and will seek input from the Planning Board to guide future efforts.
Attachments:
02_Land Use
03_Housing
05_Climate
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 25
LANDUSELANDUSE
LAND USELAND USE
Guiding Principle:
“Grow mindfully with a place-driven approach that
integrates all aspects of the built environment--
land use, transportation, economic development,
infrastructure, and social amenities to foster well-
designed and livable environments for all”
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26 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Introduction
The Land Use Element for the City of Edmonds outlines the vision and policies for land use to guide
future development and environmental conservation, taking into account community needs, along
with state and federal laws. Key objectives include preserving and enhancing community quality of
life, providing diverse housing opportunities, enhancing economic vitality, and ensuring adequate
infrastructure. The element offers guidance on how development regulations can contribute to a high
quality of life.
The Land Use Element includes an assessment of current land use patterns, zoning regulations,
and future land needs. It establishes goals and policies to steer the development of desired land
use patterns within the community. The Future Land Use Map (FLUM) delineates general land use
designations, serving as the basis for more specific zoning districts and development regulations that
set parameters for residential, commercial, recreational, and other uses within Edmonds, as well as
parks, open spaces, and protected natural areas.
The Future Land Use map and the policies outlined in this element identify areas for focused growth
and investment. These strategic decisions aim to support equitable and sustainable expansion over
the next two decades, ensuring Edmonds continues to thrive, creating a welcoming environment that
promotes a sense of belonging among residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 27
Edmonds Today
Edmonds is a historic waterfront city, providing housing, retail and restaurants, medical facilities,
services, regional cultural attractions, parks, and much more. As of 2020, the city has a population of
42,853 residents, residing in 19,005 housing units, with approximately 14,174 jobs available locally.
The existing land use map (Figure XX) indicates generally how these residents and jobs are distributed
in homes and businesses throughout the city, as well as supportive functions such as healthcare,
education, and parks. Most of the city’s land area is characterized by single-unit residential lots,
representing about 75% of the total area. Currently, future growth is focused in two defined “activity
centers”, including the Medical/Highway 99 Activity Center and the Downtown/Waterfront Activity
Center. The vast majority of Edmonds’ existing growth capacity in both housing and jobs is along the
Highway 99 corridor.
Existing Zoning
The comprehensive plan identifies land areas for future types of uses and has broad policies that
provide general direction for the implementation of specific development regulations, programs, and
investments. An example of a more specific regulation is the zoning regulations that apply to one or
more zoning districts and prescribe height limits and other dimensional requirements for development.
Through the zoning regulations, three-story story heights are allowed for much of the city with
few exceptions. The largest exception is the allowance of 75 feet in height along the Highway 99
corridor (as defined in the Highway 99 Subarea Plan). For some zoning districts, the regulations also
prescribe minimum square footage for a legal lot and/or the number of units allowed per acre. Other
development and environmental regulations, including for stormwater and environmentally critical
areas, further affect development options.
Figure 2.1 Area by zoning classfication (2020)
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28 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
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78THAVEW
226THPL
242NDPLSW
8THPLS
73RDAVEW
89THAVEW
76TH
AVE
W
80THLN
238TH ST SW
HWY99
76
T
H
A
V
E
W
HWY99
81
S
T
P
L
W
HWY99
80THAVEW
226THSTSW
225THPLSW 76THAVEW
224THSTSW
223RDSTSW
82ND
PLW
218THSTSW
80THAVEW
76THAVEW
239THSTSW
237THPLSW
GLENST
7T
H
PL
S
EDMONDSST
101STAVEW
164TH P L SW
71STPLW
E LMPL
74T
H
PL
W
204THSTSW
88THPLW
181STPL
70THAVEW
231STSTSW
191STSTSW
242NDPL
72NDAVEW
95THAVEW
77THPLW
203RDSTSW
78THAVEW
93RDPLW
234THPL
181STPLSW
80THPL
241STSTSW
SUMMITLN
86THPLW
87THPLW
88THAVEW
88THPLW
220TH STSW
84THAVEW
88THAVEW
90TH
AVE
W
85THAVE224THSTSW
87THPLW
87THAVEW
224THSTSW
86THAVEW
228THST SW
88THAVE
W
90TH
AVEW
232 N D S T S W231STPL SW
E
D
M
O
N
D
S
W
A
Y
84THAVEW
240TH STSW
89THPLW
89THPLW
90THAVEW
87THPLW
2NDAVE
S
189THPL
78TH
PL
W
78THPL
W
181STPLSW
202NDPLSW
73
R
D
A
V
E
W
85TH
PLW
81STPLW
EDMONDSST
87THAVEW
182NDST
77
T
H
A
V
E
W
79THAVEW
84THAVEW
236TH STSW
237THPLSW
189TH PLSW
219THSTSW
9
0
T
H
P
L
W
78THPLW
238THSTSW
80THPLW
242NDPLSW
12THPLN
182NDPL SW
244THSTSW/205THST NW
242NDPLSW
242N DST
92NDAVEW
242NDSTSW
97THPLW
92ND
AVE
W
81
S
T
A
V
E
W
7THAV
ES
90THAVEW
66THPLW
84THAVEW
211THPL
72NDPLW
8TH
AVES
81STAVE
226THPLSW
78
T
H
P
L
W
230THSTSW
79THPLW
86THPL
W
221STPL
CASCADEDR
236THSTSW
234THSTSW94THPLW
99THPLW
235THPL
236THPL
97THPLW
231STPLSW
94THAVEW
98TH
AVEW
96TH
AVE
W
95TH
PLW
228TH STSW
227THPLSW
226THPLSW
99THAVEW
99THPLW
93RDPL
W
92NDAVEW
98TH
AVEW
220TH STSW
96TH
AVE
W
93RDAVE
92NDAVEW
216TH ST SW
77TH
P
L
W
207THPLSW
BELLST
193RDPLSW
194THPLSW
197THST
82NDPLW
202NDPL SW
190TH STSW
99THPLW
192NDSTSW
85THAVEW
241STPLSW
243RDPLSW
6THAVES
ALDERST
238TH STSW
218THSTSW
84THPL
W
78TH
AVEW
96THPL
W
93RDPLW
BU
R
L
I
N
G
T
O
N
N
O
R
T
H
E
R
N
R
A
I
L
R
O
A
D
219THSTSW
68TH
AVEW
PINEST
92NDAVEW
92NDPLW
95THPLW
BOWDOINWAY
96THAVEW
E
D
MONDSWAY
ELM WAY
8THAVES
ED
M
O
N
D
S
W
A
Y
14THWAY
14THWAY
106THPL
W
E
D
M
O
N
D
S
W
AY
100THAVEW
231STSTSW
J O HN CT
232NDSTSW
ROBINHOODDR
HUMBERLN
WEST
GREYSTONELN
17 0TH PLSW
94THPLW
95THPLW
97THPLW
209THST SW
68THAVEW
190THSTSW
236THSTSW
77THPLW
189THPLSW
240TH PLSW
77THAVE
223RDSTSW
83RDPLW
213THSTSW
72NDAVEW
242NDPLSW
80THAVEW
228THSTSW
160THSTSW
FRIAR
T
U
CK
LN
RO
BIN
HOODDR
237THPLSW
101STPLW
10
1
S
T
AV
E
W
100THAV
E
W
102NDPLW
100THAVEW
244THSTSW 1
0
1STAVEW
104THAVEW
244THSTSW/205THSTNW
EASTGREYSTONELN
TOTEM POLE LNEAGEL LN / 242ND ST SW
BERRY LN/243RD PL
TIM
B
E
R
L
N
11
4
T
H
A
V
E
W
IVY RD/240TH ST SW
239TH PL SW
WESTWOODWAYLN
239TH PL SW
78THAVEW
71STAVEW
84THPLW
85THPLW
204TH STSW
ALOHAST
192ND
PL
SW
78THPLW
BROOKMEREDR
75
T
H
P
L
W
106THPLW
78TH
AVEW
83RDAVEW
74THAVEW
78
T
H
A
V
E
W
82NDPLW
SPRUCEST
79THAVEW
92NDAVEW
2ND
AVE
S
238TH ST SW
236TH PL SW
11
1
T
H
P
L
W
11
0
T
H
P
L
W
113T
H
P
L
W
11
5
T
H
P
L
W
11
2
T
H
P
L
W
236TH PL SW
WOODHAVEN PL 110TH
P
L
S
W
WO
O
D
W
A
Y
P
A
R
K
R
D
TIM
B
E
R
L
N
BUR
L
I
N
G
T
O
N
N
O
R
T
H
E
R
N
R
A
I
L
R
O
A
D
11
6
T
H
A
V
E
W
BU
R
L
I
N
G
T
O
N
N
O
R
T
H
E
R
N
R
A
I
L
R
O
A
D
WACHUSETT ROAD
WA
C
H
U
S
E
T
T
R
O
A
D
WO
O
D
W
A
Y
P
A
R
K
R
D
WOO
D
W
A
Y
P
A
R
K
R
D
NORTH DEE R DR
SO UTH DE E R DR
108
T
H
A
V
E
W
DO
G
W
O
O
D
P
L
SOU T H D O GW OOD LN
NO
R
T
H
D
E
E
R
D
R
DO
G
W
O
O
D
L
N
DOGWO
O
D
L
N
ALGONQUINRD
WOODWAYPARKRD
KUSHAN RD
NORTH DOGWOOD LN
N
O
RTH
DOGWOODLN
M
A
K
A
H
R
D WHITCOMPL
WOODWAYPARKRD
3RD
AVE
S
73RDPLW
191STST
181STPLSW
99THAVEW
236THPLSW
185THPLSW
225T
H
PLSW
ELMWAY
78THPLW
222NDSTSW
194THSTSW
79THPLW
85
T
H
P
L
W
217THSTSW
180THSTSW
ADMIRAL WAY
SEA
VISTA PL
ELMST
BELLA COOLARD
CHINOOKPL/
117THPLW
NOOTKARD
MAKAHRD
MAKAH RD
POINTEDWARDSPL
216THSTSW
3RDAVES
4TH
AVE
S
7THAVES
6THAVES
6THAVES
9TH
AVES
8THAVES
2NDAVES
3RDAVES
4TH
AVE
S
82NDPLW
230TH ST SW
PIONEERWY
235THST SW
69THPLW
107THPLW
78THPLW
81STAVEW
232NDPLSW
77THPLW
229THSTSW
82ND
AVE
W
185THSTSW
193RD PLSW
88THAVEW
86THPLW
240TH STSW
BIRCHST
183R D PL SW
97THAVE
W
207THPL
86THAVEW
94THAVEW
236TH ST SW
185THPLSW
80THPLW
QUAIL LN
164THPLSW 164THPLSW
64THAVEW
63RDAVEW
63RDAVEW
66THAVEW
168THSTSW
68TH
AVEW
225THPL
156THSTSW
82ND
AVEW
93RDAVEW
87THAVEW
242ND ST SW
67THAVEW
77
T
H
P
L
W
206TH STSW
230THSTSW
74
T
H
A
V
E
W
91ST
A
VE
W
2 27TH PLSW
90THPLW
80THPL
W
75TH
PLW
244THSTSW/205THSTNW
226THPLSW
PINE ST
208THSTSW
170TH PL SW
171ST PL SW
172ND PL SW172ND PL SW
MEADOWDALEDR
173RD ST SW
172ND ST SW
M E AD O WDALEDR
165THPLSW
OLYMPICVIEWDR
169TH PLW
170THPLW
175THSTSW
173RD PL SW
88THAVEW
86THAVEW
204THSTSW
86THPLW
182NDPL
236THPL
89THPLW
76THPLW
EDMONDSST
19 8 T HSTSW
V ISTAWAY
186THSTSW
217TH STSW
95THPLW
233RDPL
101STPLW
87THAVEW
173RDSTSW
70
T
H
A
V
E
W
71
S
T
A
V
E
W
185TH ST SW
185TH PL SW
187TH PL SW
186TH
188THSTSW
79THPL
W
226THSTSW
79THAVEW
240THPL
202NDSTSW
83RDPL
74THPLW
72NDAVEW
14THWAY
215TH ST S W
175TH STSW
77THAVE
182NDPLSW
98THPLW
86THAVEW
10
6
T
H
P
L
W
241STST
214THPL SW
90
T
H
A
V
E
W
80THAVEW
82NDAVEW
2 21S T ST SW
174THSTSW
215THSTSW
83RDPL
225THPLSW
69
T
H
P
L
W
68
T
H
P
L
W
70
T
H
A
V
E
W
75
T
H
A
V
E
W
191STSTSW
74T
H
A
V
E
W
192ND PL SW
192ND PL SW
69T
H
P
L
W
70
T
H
A
V
E
W
71S
T
P
L
W
72N
D
P
L
W
73
R
D
A
V
E
W
107THPLW
78THPLW
82
N
D
P
L
W
228THSTSW
71STPLW
168THSTSW
173RD ST SW
174TH ST SW
176TH ST SW
66TH
P
L
W
175TH
P
L
232NDSTSW
82NDPLW
214THPLSW
222NDSTSW
176THSTSW
242NDPLSW
243RDPL SW
235THPL
OLYMPICVIE
W
DR
74THAVEW
204THPLSW
70THPLW
SPRAGUEST
83RDAVEW
229THPLSW
80TH
PLW
FIRPL
M AP L EW O O D L N
172NDP LSW
13THWAY
64
T
H
A
V
E
W
65
T
H
P
L
W
65T
H
A
V
E
W
66
T
H
P
L
W
67
T
H
P
L
W
64
T
H
A
V
E
W
65
T
H
A
V
E
W
62N
D
P
L
W
177TH PL SW
178TH PLSW178TH PL SW
180TH ST SW
225THPLSW
83RD
AVEW
83RDAVEW
192NDPLSW
OLYMPIC
V
IEWDR
89
T
H
A
V
E
W
79THAVEW
178THPLSW
PUGET WAY
81STPLW
172NDSTSW
215TH STSW
10
5
T
H
P
L
W
91STAVEW
85THPLW
89THPL
77THAVEW
VISTA PL
7TH PLS
86THPLW
188TH ST SW
185TH PL SW
PENNY LN
64
T
H
A
V
E
W
66
T
H
A
V
E
W
67
T
H
A
V
E
W
189TH PL SW
190TH ST SW
191ST PL SW
171STSTSW
184THSTSW
95THPLW
86THPLW
194THPL
85
T
H
P
L
W
185THSTSW
218THST SW
198THPLSW
82NDAVEW
229THPL
224THSTSW
240THPLSW
81STPLW
227THST S W
81STPLW
4THAVES
180THSTSW
90THAVEW
81STAVEW
VIEWLANDWAY
94THAVEW
187THPLSW
8THAVEN
228THSTSW
65T
H
P
L
W
64
T
H
A
V
E
W
62
N
D
P
L
W
186THSTSW
66
T
H
P
L
185TH ST SW185TH ST SW
183RD PL SW
182ND ST SW
181ST PL SW
183RD PL SW
182ND PL SW
183RD ST SW
182ND ST SW
63
R
D
C
T
62N
D
P
L
W
67T
H
A
V
E
W
181ST ST SW181ST ST SW
63
R
D
P
L
67THAVE
FIR
E
R
D
69TH P
L
W
71S
T
A
V
E
W
192ND ST SW
191ST PL SW 191ST ST SW
72
N
D
A
V
E
W
92NDAVEW
86THAVEW
86THPLW
215THPLSW
97TH
AVE
W
200THSTSW
78
T
H
A
V
E
W
226THPLSW
8THAVEN
PUGETDR
205THPLSW
82NDAVEW
164THSTSW
226THSTSW
77THPL
W
202NDSTSW
96THAVEW
239TH PL S W
160THSTSW
82
N
D
A
V
E
W
229THSTSW
68T
H
A
V
E
W
68
T
H
A
V
E
W
BL
U
E
R
I
D
G
E
D
R
193RD PL SW
194TH PL SW
194TH PL SW
1 93RDPLSW
7
3
R
D
P
L
194TH ST SW
72N
D
P
L
190TH ST SW
191ST ST SW
192ND PL SW
66T
H
P
L
W
102NDPL
W
77THAVEW
216TH ST SW
84TH
AVE
W
72NDAVE
W
EDMONDS
WAY/SR
104
12THAVEN
182NDSTSW
187THPLSW
72NDAVEW
10
1
S
T
A
V
E
W
81STAVEW
194THSTSW
86THAVEW
187THST SW
86THPLW
81STAVEW
221ST PLSW
216THSTSW
224THSTSW
73RDPL
W
83RDAVEW
74TH
PL
63RD
P
L
W
PARKWY
DALEWY
189TH PL SW 189TH PL SW
67T
H
A
V
E
W
193RD ST SW 193RD ST SW
194TH ST SW
195TH PL SW
196TH ST SW
66T
H
A
V
E
W
196TH ST SW
197TH ST SW
HEINZ
P
L
69
T
H
P
L
W
71
S
T
P
L
W
73
R
D
A
V
E
W
189
T
H
S
T
S
W
68
T
H
A
V
E
W
75
T
H
A
V
E
201ST PL
74T
H
P
L
W
75
T
H
P
L
W
73
R
D
A
V
E
W
204THSTSW
203RDPLSW
GLENST
HWY99
204THSTSW
63
R
D
P
L
W
63
R
D
A
V
E
W
60THAVEW
208THSTSW
210THSTSW
212THSTSW
66
T
H
A
V
E
W
67T
H
A
V
E
W
N W TRAC TION R/W
214THSTSW
213THPLSW
215THSTSW
67THAVEW
66THAVEW
61STPLW
216THSTSW
218THSTSW
219THSTSW
66THAVEW
64THAVEW
220THSTSW
68THPLW
68THAVEW
222NDSTSW
224THSTSW 224THSTSW
220THPL
221STPL221STPLSW
223RDPL
223RDPLSW
67THPLW
68THAVEW
66THAVEW
65THAVEW
64THAVEW
67THPLW
66THPL
W
226THSTSW
225THPL
225THPLSW
225THPLSW
226THSTSW
227THPLSW
67THPLW
63RDPLW
62NDAVEW
62NDAVEW
227THSTSW
68THAVEW
67THPLW
66THPL
65THPL
64THPLW
228THSTSW
229THPL
230THSTSW
68THAVEW
230THSTSW
231STSTSW
63RD
AVEW
6
3RD
P
L
66THAVEW
67THPLW
66THAVEW
67THPLW
232NDSTSW
232NDPLSW
233PL
234THPL
233RDSTSW
234THSTSW
234THST
64THAVEW
63RDAVE
W
63RD
AVE
W
66THAVEW
234THPL 234TH PL
235THPL
65THPLW67THAVEW
234THST
S
W235THSTSW
231STSTSW
92NDAVEW
91STAVEW
N W T RA CTIO N R/W
78THPLW
236THSTSW
8THAVEN
ALBION
W
A
Y
85thAveW
4TH
AVES
5THAVES
6THAV
E
S
A
AVE
S
7THAVES B
AVE
S
C AVE S
E D M O NDSWAY
178THPLSW
6 9THPLW
96TH PL W
BURLINGTON NO RTH E R N R AILR O A D
PRD-1969-1
PRD-1984-1
PRD-1975-1
PRD-1981-2
PRD-1976-1
PRD-1983-1
PRD-1979-4
PRD-2002-40
PRD-2000-21
PRD-1969-1
PRD-2002-171
PRD-1987-1
PRD-1969-2
PRD-1989-1
PRD-1986-1
PRD-1981-1
PRD-1990-2
PRD-1978-1
PRD-1975-1
PRD-1988-2
PRD-1977-2
PRD-1977-1
PRD-1994-16
PRD-1990-1
PRD-1979-3
PRD-1994-12
PRD-2002-62
PRD-1980-2
PRD 2002-102
PRD-1988-1
PRD-2003-147
RS-6
RS-6
P
P
P
RS-12
RS-10
RS-10
RS-10
RS-10
P
P
P
P
P
RS-8
RS-8
P
P
P
RSW-12
RS-12
OS
RS-12RS-20 RS-20
MU
RS-8
RS-6
RS-20
MP1
RS-20
MP2
OS
RS-8
CW
P
CG
CG
RS-12
P
RSW-12
RS-10
CW
RS-8
RM-1.5
RS-20
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-12
RS-12
RS-12
RSW-12
RS-6
RS-10
RS-12
RS-6
CW
BC
RS-20
RM-2.4
RS-6
RS-8
OS
CG
RS-8
RS-12
RS-8
RS-10
RS-8
RS-12
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-12
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-12
RS-6
RS-12
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-12
RS-12
RS-6
RS-8
RS-MP
CW
RS-8
RM-2.4
RS-8
RS-6
RS-8
RS-10
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
CG
RM-1.5
RM-1.5
RS-12
RS-12
RS-8
RM-1.5
RS-8
CG
RS-20
FVMU
RS-8
RM-2.4
RS-8
BC
RM-1.5
BP
RS-6
RM-1.5
OS
RS-12
RS-12
RS-20
OS
RM-2.4
RS-8
RS-8
RS-8
RS-10
RS-6
RM-2.4
BP
RS-8
RS-10
RM-3
RS-12
RS-12
BN
BD3
BC
RS-12
RS-12
RS-12
RM-2.4
BD1
BN
RS-12
RS-6
RM-2.4
RM-2.4
BN
BN
BN
BN
RM-1.5
BN
RS-6
RM-2.4
RM-1.5
RM-1.5
BD5
RM-2.4
RS-6
BD4
RM-3
RM-2.4
RM-3
RM-1.5
RS-6
RS-6RS-6
RS-6
RM-1.5
RM-1.5
RS-12
RM-3
OS
BD2
BD2
BD2BD2
RM-EW
BC-EW
OR
RM-3
WMU
WMU
BP
RS-8
CG
CG
CG
CG
CG
BC-EW
RM-2.4
RM-EW
R-1979-4
R-1979-12
R-
1
9
8
5
-
3
R-1995-177
R-1998-207
R-1990-1
R-1997-28
R-2001-34
R-2002-101
R-3-81
R-2002-38
R-1988-3
R-1988-2
Lake Ballinger
MAPLEST
ALDER ST
BC-EW
BC
BN
RM-
1
.
5
RM-2.4
Halls Creek
Shel
l
C
r
e
e
k
Willow Creek
Deer Creek
P
e
r
r
i
n
v
i
l
l
e
C
r
e
e
k
F
r
u
i
t
d
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²
This map is a representation of the official zoning map
of the City of Edmonds. Please check with the
City of Edmonds Planning Division before relying
on the zoning information described on this map.
600 0 600 1,200300
Feet
Zoning Designations and Descriptions
Map revision date: August 3, 2022
Zoning2022_36x56.mxd
City of Edmonds
Zoning
[e Historic Sites Sites on Edmonds Register of Historic Places
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Rezones Contract Rezones (contractual requirements apply)
PRD PRD - Planned Residential Development
Single Family
RS-6 Single Family, 6,000 sq. ft. lots
RS-8 Single Family, 8,000 sq. ft. lots
RS-10 Single Family, 10,000 sq. ft. lots
RS-12 Single Family, 12,000 sq. ft. lots
RSW-12 Waterfront Single Family, 12,000 sq. ft. lots
RS-20 Single Family, 20,000 sq. ft. lots
RS-MP Single Family, Master Plan
Multi Family
RM-3 Multi Family, 3,000 sq. ft. of lot area per unit
RM-2.4 Multi Family, 2,400 sq. ft. of lot area per unit
RM-1.5 Multi Family, 1,500 sq. ft. of lot area per unit
RM-EW Multi Family, RM-Edmonds Way
Downtown Business
((((((((((((((((((BD1 Downtown Retail Core
((((((((((((((((((((((((BD2 Downtown Mixed Commercial
((((((((((((((((((BD3 Downtown Convenience Commercial
((((((((((((((((((((((((BD4 Downtown Mixed Residential
((((((((((((((((((BD5 Downtown Arts Corridor
((((((((((((((((((((((((
OR Office-Residential
Commercial
WMU Westgate Mixed Use
BP Planned Business
BN Neighborhood Business
FVMU Firdale Village Mixed Use
BC Community Business
BC-EW Community Business, BC-Edmonds Way
CG General Commercial
Waterfront
CW Commercial Waterfront
MP1 Master Plan Hillside Mixed Use
MP2 Master Plan Hillside Mixed Use
Other
MU Medical Use
P Public Use
OS Open Space
Figure 2.2 City of Edmonds Zoning Map
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 29
Edmonds 2044
One of the key principles of the Growth Management Act and regional planning is that jurisdictions
must accommodate their fair share of the region’s growth. Growth targets in Edmonds are set by
Snohomish County through the Snohomish County Tomorrow process.
Snohomish County periodically produces a “Buildable lands Report” based on countywide population
projections. The most recent version was adopted in 2021. A detailed methodology defined by the
county process determines the “baseline” capacity available for growth within each city. Between
2020 and 2044, Edmonds population is forecasted to increase by 31%. the housing units by 48%,
and jobs are expected to increase by 22%. This represents a significant increase in growth targets
compared to the previous comprehensive plan.
The housing and land use sections of this comprehensive plan aim to accommodate growth and other
needs in a way that is consistent with Edmonds’ principles and goals while delivering the greatest
community benefit. For more technical information on legislative background and housing and jobs
capacity calculation methods, please see the Appendix A.
Table 2.1 Growth Targets for the City of Edmonds for 2044 as set by Snohomish County CPP.
1.These 9,069 units must be distributed according to the requirements and affordability levels designated in HB 1220.
2.Source: Snohomish County Buildable Lands Report 2021
3.Proposed Land Use alternatives are distributing this required net growth capacity
2020 Estimate 2044 Target Proposed
Growth
Existing
Capacity2
Net 2044
Target3
Population 42,853 55,966 13,113
Housing 19,005 28,073 9,0691 5,148 3,921
Jobs 14,174 17,232 3,058 2,548 510
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30 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Opportunity for Edmonds:
Integrated Place-making:
To meet anticipated growth targets and respond
to the rising demands for housing opportunities
and broader accessibility to goods and services,
the City’s land use approach emphasizes
the creation of appropriately scaled, vibrant,
sustainable, and inclusive community places. A
place-driven approach integrates all aspects of
the built environment- land use, transportation,
economic development, infrastructure, and social
amenities to foster well-designed and livable
environments that promote healthy lifestyles,
climate resiliency, and access to natural beauty.
Climate-change responsiveness
The approach emphasizes mixed land use, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and efficient public
transportation to create a sustainable, resilient, and livable city that can adapt to changing
environmental conditions while meeting the needs of its residents. Protecting critical areas, such as
wetlands, floodplains, and habitats, is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Preserving and expanding the urban tree canopy helps improve air quality, reduce heat, and enhance
the city’s aesthetic appeal.
Walkable neighborhoods
A place-driven approach can help residents be more active, healthy, and engaged in their community,
by bringing shopping, employment, education, recreation, and other community resources within
reach of walking, biking, and transit. Organizing land use to efficiently provide infrastructure and create
enough demand for services and amenities within a given walkable area requires a curated mix of uses
as well as density, particularly in housing. Given that significant multifamily housing growth is needed in
the city, thoughtful land use planning can leverage this growth as an asset to create a more complete
and livable community by supporting both neighborhood and citywide serving businesses, services,
and amenities.
Supporting mobility for people
Transportation infrastructure is critical to support land use, including through sidewalks, crosswalks,
bicycle infrastructure, traffic management, and more. To address this, Edmonds has brought a Multi-
Modal Level of Service (MMLOS) approach to planning this infrastructure. The MMLOS approach
prioritizes investments to promote sustainable and equitable transportation options. The transportation
section of this comprehensive plan has more information.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 31
Growth Alternatives
The city has proposed two distinct strategies for managing population growth, land use, and
development in Edmonds. Both strategies align with the City’s 2044 growth targets, addressing the
same level of projected growth.
For the final updated Plan, either Alternative
A or B or a combination of Alternatives A
and B may be selected to create an option
that meets the City’s goals. The preferred
alternative will represent Edmonds’ preferred
policy direction for the comprehensive plan
and will help guide portions of the plan
update.
These alternatives assume minimum compliance
with recently adopted House Bills 1110, 1337 and
1220. They are organized around a basic land-use
theme of Centers and Hubs located in different
locations. The alternatives examine a different
distribution of growth to highlight a range of
choices.
Minimum compliance with recently adopted Washington State legislation
•House Bill 1110 (Increasing middle housing consisting of duplexes, triplexes, townhomes, quadplexes (with one
affordable unit), stacked flats, and cottage style and courtyard apartments in areas traditionally dedicated to
single family residential detached housing).
•House Bill 1337 (Expanding housing options by easing barriers to the construction and use of accessory
dwelling units [ADUs]).
•House Bill 1220 (Supporting emergency shelters and housing through local planning and development
regulations.) This bill updates the housing goals of the Growth Management Act to include planning for
and accommodating affordable housing and requires jurisdictions to address moderate, low, very low, and
extremely low-income housing in the housing element of the comprehensive plan. It also requires jurisdictions
to address racially disparate impacts and displacement in the housing element of the comprehensive plan.
New Types of Activity Centers as Areas of Change:
The approach proposed in the current Comprehensive Plan for Edmonds is to strategically plan
for future development in two activity centers located within the community, the Medical/Highway
99 Activity Center and the Downtown/Waterfront Activity Center. The Neighborhood Centers and
Neighborhood Hubs will be new types of smaller scale activity centers in Edmonds. Of the two, centers
are larger while hubs are smaller.
Both Action Alternatives include these features in Neighborhood Centers and Neighborhood Hubs:
•Commercial and Mixed Use: Provide a mix of retail, commercial, and services to a variety of areas in the City.
•Complementary Uses: Enable compact building forms, providing the ability to accomplish many daily tasks
without a car.
•Vibrant: Create a town-center atmosphere, with larger open spaces and walkable streetscapes.
•Public Realm: Offer opportunities for public art and areas for festivals and other civic activities.
•Range of Housing Choices: Enable housing options for current and future residents of Edmonds, including
senior- and family-oriented mid rise and mixed-use multifamily buildings.
•Transit Accessible: Conveniently located with solid transit access.
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32 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Neighborhood Centers
Neighborhood centers leverage already
established mixed commercial areas to
accommodate additional growth, while providing
amenities, services, and economic activity closer
to mature residential neighborhoods. Centers
permit a wide range of building types and will
offer the ability to accomplish daily tasks without a
car to large sectors of the city. Centers are active
with larger public open spaces, and walkable
streetscapes. Centers will include amenities
such as public art and areas for street markets,
festivals, and other civic activities. Housing in
centers includes senior and family-oriented mid-
rise and mixed-use multifamily buildings. The
addition of housing to centers will help build a
customer base for local businesses to thrive.
This approach to neighborhood centers leaves
open the potential for each center to respond
and grow within its unique context, working in
coordination with other activity centers to best
serve community needs.
Selection Criteria for Neighborhood Centers
•Potential for redevelopment (underutilized) to meet
community goals and enhance the public realm
•Existing retail and other commercial businesses
•Existing moderate scale multi family residential land
uses
•Potential for good multimodal access with existing
transit service
Draft Locations and Extents of Neighborhood
Centers
The extents of the centers vary for each of the
action alternatives.
•Firdale Village
•Westgate
•Five Corners
•Medical District Expansion
Neighborhood Hubs
Neighborhood hubs are smaller focal points
within the city, bringing neighborhood serving
retail, amenities, and services within proximity
to residents. “Third places” such as local
coffee shops and bookstores for neighborhood
gathering and connection can be located here.
Hubs will offer small scale open spaces that
primarily serve the surrounding neighborhood
with improved pedestrian and bicycle
infrastructure. Housing choices available in hubs
such as townhomes and apartments allow seniors
to stay in their community, and young families to
start out.
Selection Criteria for Neighborhood Hubs
•Potential for redevelopment (underutilized) to meet
community goals and enhance the public realm
•Existing mixed-use with small-scale retail or
commercial businesses
•Existing low-rise apartments or missing middle
housing
•Potential for good multimodal access with existing
transit service
Draft Locations and Extents of Neighborhood
Hubs
The extents of the Neighborhood Hubs vary for each
of the action alternative.
•South Lake Ballinger
•Firdale North
•West Edmonds Way
•North Bowl
•Maplewood
•East Seaview
•Perrinville
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 33
Figure 2.3 City of Edmonds: Proposed locations of Neighborhood Centers and Hubs
Neighborhood Centers
Neighborhood Hubs
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34 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Edmonds Waterfront:
Under both action alternatives, the Plan removes references to Edmonds Crossing and examines
key planning issues and objectives within the waterfront’s evolving context. Critical issues to address
include sea level rise, climate resilience, access and circulation for all modes of transportation, marsh
restoration, land use and development, sustainability, and design character.
Future Land Use Designations
Each of the action alternatives follows the same land use designation guide, which shows what types
of buildings are proposed, how tall they are, and what sort of homes, commercial spaces, or offices
would be there.
FLUM
Designation Land Use Type Compatible Zoning
Classifications Notes
Downtown/
Waterfront Activity
Center
Mix of uses; refer to specific plan
designations within activity center
Refer to specific activity center
discussion in plan Same as Existing
Low Density
Residential 1
Primarily detached houses with low-
scale middle housing types including a
mix of Duplexes, townhomes, stacked
flats and Accessory Dwelling Units.
RS - 6 and RS-8 House Bills Compliance
Low Density
Residential 2
Primarily detached houses with low-
scale middle housing types including a
mix of Duplexes, townhomes, stacked
flats and Accessory Dwelling Units.
RS-10, RSW-12, RS-12, RS-20 House Bills Compliance
Moderate Density
Residential
Housing types consist of a mix of
detached and attached housing,
including townhouses, multiplexes,
courtyard apartments and other
smaller scale multifamily.
All RM zones (RM 1.5, 2.4, 3.0)
Combining existing
high and medium
density multi family
designations
Mixed-Use 3
Housing types same as moderate
density residential. Neighborhood-
scale retail on ground floor allowed.
Replaces Mixed Use
Commercial, Community
Commercial, and Neighborhood
Commercial.
NEW Zoning classification
required.
In Neighborhood Hubs.
Max ht of 3 floors
Mixed-Use 4
Housing types same as moderate
density residential. Neighborhood-
scale retail on ground floor allowed.
Replaces Mixed Use
Commercial, Community
Commercial, and Neighborhood
Commercial.
NEW Zoning classification
required.
In Neighborhood
Centers and Hubs. Max
ht of 4 floors
Table 2.2 Future Land Use Designations with proposed zoning cross-walk
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 35
FLUM
Designation Land Use Type Compatible Zoning
Classifications Notes
Mixed-Use 5
Mix of office, residential, civic and retail
or other commercial services with a
focus on medium-density multifamily
residential (Multi-story development,
Apartments/Condominiums) and
supporting retail and services.
Commercial ground floor uses may
be required in select locations and
encouraged everywhere else
Replaces Mixed Use
Commercial, Community
Commercial, and Neighborhood
Commercial.
NEW Zoning classification
required.
In Neighborhood
Centers only. Max ht of
5 floors
Mixed-Use 5
(Medical)
In addition to uses allowed in Mixed
Use 5, includes hospital and medical
uses
HM, Mixed Use zones for
Medical Uses
In Medical District
Neighborhood center
only
Highway 99 Mixed
Use
Mix of office, residential, and retail
or other commercial services with a
focus on higher-density multifamily
residential and supporting retail and
services.
CG
Max ht 75’, As per
Highway 99 Subarea
Plan
Hospital/ Medical Special Use District Hospital or Medical zone Same as Existing
Edmonds Way
Corridor Mixed Use BP, BN, BC, or similar
commercial zone; RM zones Same as Existing
Planned
Neighborhood Mixed Use BP or BN Same as Existing
Master Plan
Development Mixed Use MP1 or MP2 Same as Existing
Public Uses
Includes public institutional uses, such
as public schools, libraries,
community centers, police stations,
fire stations, and municipal or school
district administration buildings.
Same as Existing
Parks and Open
Space
Public parks, trails, recreation facilities,
open space.
P, OS, or equivalent
classification Same as Existing
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36 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Alternative A: Focused Growth
Alternative A would consist of four Neighborhood Centers of mid-scale mixed use (Figure 1-4). This
would include four-floor apartments or condominiums with retail, commercial, or offices on the ground
floor in select locations, with a possible additional bonus floor. A bonus (fifth) floor would be possible
if a developer meets community benefit incentives. The four Neighborhood Hubs would include low
scale mixed use. This would include three-floor apartments or condominiums with retail, commercial, or
offices on the ground floor in select locations, with no bonus floors permitted in Hubs.
Figure 2.4 Draft Future Land Use Map for Growth Alternative A: Focused Growth
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 37
Alternative B: Distributed Growth
Alternative B would consist of four smaller Neighborhood Centers compared to Alternative A, each of
mid-scale mixed use (Figure 1-5). This would include lower three-floor apartments or condominiums
with retail, commercial, or offices on the ground floor in select locations, with a possible additional
bonus floor. A bonus (fourth) floor would be possible if a developer meets community benefit
incentives. The seven Neighborhood Hubs would include low- scale mixed use. This would include
higher three-floor apartments or condominiums with retail, commercial, or offices on the ground floor in
select locations, also with a possible bonus floor permitted in Hubs.
Figure 2.5 Draft Future Land Use Map for Growth Alternative B: Distributed Growth
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38 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Citywide Goals
Goal LU-1 Ensure growth enhances the quality of life for current and future residents,
workers, businesses, and visitors while upholding the community’s vision
Policy LU-1.1 Direct new growth to areas with existing infrastructure and services to promote efficiency,
reduce environmental impacts, and enhance community cohesion.
Policy LU-1.2 Promote place-based solutions to mitigate existing corridor development to enable
walkability, livability and access to open space, while encouraging efficient land use
management
The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
(PROS) Plan details a parks system gap
analysis, which was conducted to examine
and assess the current distribution of parks
throughout the city. The analysis reviewed
the locations and types of existing facilities,
land use classifications, transportation/
access barriers, and other factors to identify
preliminary acquisition target areas.
Additional analysis was conducted to examine
the park system through an equity lens.
The analysis illustrates which parks may be
underdeveloped or require additional upkeep
or enhancements, which could guide future
capital planning to bring parity to existing
developed parks.
This analysis should be part of assessment
studies conducted under Policy LU 1.3.
Policy LU-1.3 Support and maintain significant
public investments, including government
and cultural facilities, landscaping, street
furnishings, public art, and civic features
that enhance the pedestrian experience
and foster community.
Policy LU-1.4 Building design should discourage
automobile access and curb cuts that
interfere with pedestrian and bicycle
activity and break up the streetscape.
Encourage the use of alley entrances to
reduce vehicle and pedestrian conflicts
and provide for an attractive street front.
Policy LU-1.5 Prioritize capital facility
improvements, including for open space
and community gathering places, in
historically underserved areas.
Policy LU-1.6 Implement appropriate
development regulations to create
opportunities for housing and jobs
consistent with state and regional goals
and targets for the planning period ending
in 2044, as shown in Table 2.1.
Policy LU-1.7 Foster vibrant retail, office, and entertainment spaces supported by local residents and
the broader Edmonds community in activity, neighborhood centers and hubs,
Policy LU-1.8 Enhance Edmonds’ imageability by preserving and leveraging its strong visual quality.
Policy LU-1.9 Find opportunities in creative placemaking to celebrate the Edmonds arts community and
promote local craftsmanship.
Policy LU-1.10 Consider carefully any proposed changes to the Municipal Urban Growth Area
boundaries that would affect Edmonds, taking into account financial impacts, infrastructure, and
other factors.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 39
Goal LU-2 Maintain and grow a welcoming environment that promotes a sense of
belonging among residents, visitors, and businesses.
Policy LU-2.1 Avoid racially disparate impacts on historically marginalized communities when
considering City investments, programs, and regulations.
Policy LU-2.2 Continue to support pedestrian scale development through appropriate land use
regulations and design guidelines.
Policy LU-2.3 Encourage opportunities for public views of Puget Sound and other natural settings in
the city.
Policy LU-2.4 As opportunities arise, seek to de-pave underutilized or undefined impervious areas
through landscaping, high quality furnishings, permeable surfaces and tree canopy while
incorporating green infrastructure.
Activity Centers
Over the past decade, Edmonds has strategically planned for future development in Activity Centers.
During the last Comprehensive Plan Process in 2015, these were identified as the Downtown/
Waterfront Activity Center and Medical/Highway 99 Activity Center.
Most of the Edmonds’ development capacity currently is on Highway 99, which is a major regional
transportation spine linking multiple cities between I-5 and the Puget sound. Edmonds Downtown,
which includes the arts district, and Waterfront serve as the City’s primary destination for residents to
come together and enjoy the natural and cultural assets of the City. The two areas are complimentary
connected by their physical proximity, streets, views, and uses. Policies in this plan reinforce this
seamless connection, as well as describe approaches appropriate to each location.
The Activity Centers are intended to
have the following attributes:
•Pedestrian-oriented: high quality
pedestrian-oriented streetscape
environment that encourages walking.
lingering and staying within residential and
commercial activity.
•Mixed-use: mixed-use development
patterns that support a variety of
commercial and residential opportunities,
including both multi-family and small-lot
single family development, fewer vehicular
trips and neighborhood walkability.
•Community character: historical character
and natural relationships, such as historic
buildings, slopes with views, and the
waterfront.
•Multimodal: pedestrian and bike network
transit service and access.
The five types of activity centers, each of
which prescribes a contextually sensitive
place-based approach to future land use, are:
•Downtown
•Waterfront
•Districts within Highway 99 Subarea
•Neighborhood Centers (Westgate, Five
Corners, Firdale Village and Medical
District Expansion)
•Neighborhood Hubs (North Bowl, Firdale
North, Perrinville, East Seaview, West
Edmonds Way, South Lake Ballinger and
Maplewood)
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40 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
•Balanced (re)development: a balanced and coordinated approach to economic development and housing,
along with cultural and environmental goals.
•Concurrency: Involves investment from the public and private sectors for adequate infrastructure.
•Adaptive reuse: An alternative approach to redevelopment of historic structures to preserve these resources
when feasible.
Quality of life in Edmonds will be further improved by growing its unique, thriving neighborhoods
and anchoring them with social gathering points which are well connected by safe streets and parks.
To that end, Neighborhood Centers and Hubs apply these principles of integrated place-making to
encourage collaboration among the community, policymakers, and private developers to ensure that
urban spaces are not only functional but also context specific and socially cohesive.
Outside of these activity centers, land use decisions will be guided by other elements of this
document. Other elements of this document may also inform decisions in activity centers where
appropriate.
Neighborhood Centers and Hubs
Goal LU-3 Promote development within the centers and hubs as the focus for growth
in a way that enhances a sense of place and provides a good quality of life for all
residents.
Policy LU-3.1 Encourage multi-family residential development alongside a diverse mix of retail and
commercial spaces within centers and hubs to enable efficient land utilization and strengthen
community cohesion.
Policy LU-3.2 Establish Centers and Hubs as focal points for residents’ needs, services, jobs, housing
with mobility options and recreational opportunities.
Collaborate with organizations and agencies to support local businesses at risk of displacement,
helping them have the resources to thrive.
Policy LU-3.3 Incentivize development that provides signature pedestrian facilities and public space,
supports local business and incorporates affordable housing.
Policy LU-3.4 Coordinate with Community Transit to enable last-mile connections to support transit
use.
Policy LU-3.5 Manage the transition between the core of neighborhood centers to the surrounding
community with stepped-down densities and heights, and retail uses that are more
neighborhood serving and associated with less traffic demand.
Goal LU-4 Enable mixed-use areas to be distinct, human-scale environments that
foster placemaking opportunities.
Policy LU-4.1 Support satellite civic uses and capital investments, where practical, to serve as anchors
in centers and hubs.
Policy LU-4.2 Adopt regulations that reduce barriers for mixed use, multifamily developments while
providing for context-appropriate design.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 41
WHAT IS HUMAN SCALE?
“Human scale” refers to the design of
buildings, streets, and spaces that consider
the physical and sensory experiences of
people. It’s about creating environments
that people find comfortable, engaging,
and conducive to their daily activities,
fostering a sense of belonging and
community.
Built form: Design elements shall be
scaled and designed with human
dimensions and senses in mind - such
as the first 30’ of building height, widths
of buildings, frequent entrances, and the
distances between buildings to ensure
that proportions are relatable and do not
detract from the pedestrian experience
Facades: Textures, materials, and
transparency to create visual interest at
the pedestrian eye level
Pedestrian-Friendly Details: Streets adhere
to complete street design standards with
landscaping, wide sidewalks, and calm
vehicular traffic.
Policy LU-4.3 Continue transition of overhead wires
and poles to underground facilities.
Policy LU-4.4 Promote pedestrian-friendly ground-
level activities and street-facing storefronts and
commercial spaces that create opportunities
for community engagement in all mixed-use
areas.
Policy LU-4.5 Ensure that urban spaces are
accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
This includes designing for mobility and
creating spaces that are easy to navigate for
everyone.
Goal LU-5 Foster healthy and thriving
community places.
Policy LU-5.1 Support active transportation (e.g.,
walking and bicycling) access to public
facilities, schools, parks and open space,
employment centers, and other amenities and
resources.
Policy LU-5.2 Support increased greenspace, tree
canopy, and integration of nature within urban
settings.
Policy LU-5.4 Open space should be equitably
distributed throughout the centers and hubs,
promoting active and passive recreation, foster
social interactions and community engagement
Policy LU-5.5 Facilitate partnerships between the city, neighborhoods, business, and property owners/
developers to reduce or share costs associated with neighborhood improvements.
Policy LU-5.6 Encourage space sharing between properties to serve neighborhood businesses for
staging garbage, recycling and compost
Policy LU-5.7 Find opportunities to integrate small open spaces such as pocket parks, expanded
outdoor café seating areas, and intimate plazas appropriate for small community gatherings and
impromptu meetings between neighbors.
Goal LU-6 Support efficient parking management strategies.
Policy LU-6.1 Foster shared parking arrangements between different land uses (e.g., office and
residential) to optimize the use of existing parking spaces.
Policy LU-6.2 Encourage adaptable building design for parking garages to have flat floors, which will
allow for future use conversion.
Policy LU-6.3 Consider opportunities to reflect changing parking demand as single-occupancy vehicle
uses evolve and where transit or other alternatives become available.
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Downtown
In downtown, goals and policies focus on encouraging uses that complement existing businesses to
improve vibrancy and vitality. Downtown land use will allow a range of amenities and activities that
complement its walkable environment, creative and cultural sector, restaurants and retail, and historic
buildings which are intrinsic to Edmonds’ identity. Landmarks and gathering spaces can serve as
focal points to attract people, including visitors, to beloved Edmonds events such as arts festivals and
farmers markets.
Strategically introducing ground floor residential uses along the edges of downtown with, design
and street frontage considerations will increase public safety by placing “eyes on the street” while
supporting the retail core, providing housing choices appropriate for seniors, and more productively
utilizing land. Further modification of downtown design standards can help ensure success of ground
floor residential and retail space and improve building quality while maintaining the scale of downtown.
A major highlight of downtown will continue to be the 4th Avenue arts corridor. To complement this
and add to the ecosystem of the Edmonds arts community, Dayton St. will be supported as a live-work
corridor. This will further serve to connect downtown and the waterfront and add vitality to the south
downtown in a way that complements rather than competes with Main Street.
Goal LU-7 Strengthen and expand the unique identity of Downtown
Policy LU-7.1 Encourage the adaptive reuse of historic structures by facilitating seismic retrofits,
accessibility, and code upgrades
Policy LU-7.2 Reinforce the public realm along the “5th Ave and Main St corridor” supporting various
retail, public uses, and pedestrian activities.
Goal LU-8 Strengthen and expand the creative identity of Edmonds Downtown
Creative District.
Policy LU-8.1 Strengthen meaningful connections and representation of indigenous culture, past and
present.
Policy LU-8.2 Provide flexibility for creative uses, including retail, small-scale production spaces, and
live work uses.
Policy LU-8.3 Explore programs that support interim, transitional, or temporary creative uses that can
transform underutilized spaces with temporary arts.
Policy LU-8.4 Continue to explore strategies to nurture the working arts through access to supportive
facilities (working spaces and venues) and facilitating an affordable cost of living.
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Waterfront
Nestled within a walkable distance from the vibrant downtown core, the Edmonds Waterfront stands as
a unique and captivating destination. This picturesque setting, with stunning views of the Puget Sound
and the Olympic Mountains, blends natural beauty , recreation, active businesses, and significant
transportation facilities, Community members are deeply invested in preserving the area’s scenic
beauty, enjoying recreational activities, and fostering educational opportunities for natural resource
conservation. The City of Edmonds’ beaches are renowned as marine protected areas, and the
Edmonds Marsh is one of the last remaining urban, tidally influenced saltwater estuaries in the Puget
Sound region. Restoration of fish habitat is a key priority in this area. Adding to the city’s waterfront
charm is the Edmonds Underwater Dive Park, located just north of the Edmonds-Kingston Ferry
Landing, which stands as the most popular of Washington’s 10 underwater parks.
The waterfront is also home to a port district—the Port of Edmonds—and many local businesses,
including a hotel, restaurants, retail shops, and services. The Port district operates a long-time marina,
which includes service for water-related commercial activities, as well as public access, and provides
space for local businesses at Harbor Square, a commercial campus. Nearby, the Cascadia Art Museum,
which is operated by an educational nonprofit organization, operates in its own renovated building. A
little further north, the Edmonds Community Center was recently rebuilt along the waterfront to provide
a welcoming and scenic public space. Redevelopment there included cleanup of contamination from
old piers.
Figure 2.6 Key locations within the Edmonds Waterfront
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44 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
In this same general vicinity, BNSF operates a north-south train system that includes frequent freight
service on a set of single tracks roughly paralleling the shoreline and separating the western-most
portion of the waterfront area from the remainder. On this track, Amtrak provides passenger rail
services, including commuter service to Seattle. BNSF has proposed double-tracking along here but
the timing remains uncertain.
Close to the shoreline, Washington State Ferries operates the ferry terminal. It serves as the western
gateway to downtown and provides ferry transportation between Edmonds and Kingston, with a
connection to Hwy 104 in Edmonds. Proposed by Washington state, the Edmonds Crossing project
included relocation of ferry terminal from its downtown setting to a less developed area to the south.
Because of the very high cost of relocation and obstacles to implementation, the Edmonds Crossing
project was ultimately dropped from Washington State plans.
Key Driving Factors
Given the area’s many attributes, diverse property ownerships, and increasing popularity, establishing
a clear vision to implement complementary strategies and partnerships is more crucial than ever for
the future of the Edmonds Waterfront.
•Preparation for the Edmonds Crossing project was incorporated into the Edmonds Comprehensive
Plan in 2015 and its 2020 update. Due to cancelation of the project, land use assumptions and
opportunities need reconsideration.
•Edmonds recognizes that sea level rise pertaining to climate change is likely to affect the waterfront.
•Concerns about the Edmonds Marsh: The marsh extents have been reduced to what they were
years. Today, much of the remaining Marsh is protected from development while opportunities for
public viewing, viable bird habitat, and low-impact pedestrian access have increased.
•Emergency access between the waterfront and the city: Grade-level access is frequently blocked by
train traffic for periods of each day and at times for sustained period of time, when a train has to stop
on the tracks. As the train traffic through Edmonds increases, providing emergency services can
become challenging.
•The Unocal property has been going through years-long cleanup. The state has been overseeing
this cleanup, which is expected to result in new ownership of the property and possibly more
opportunities Meanwhile, the City has invested significant resources, including grant funds—to
protect the adjacent natural environment, enhance passive recreational opportunities, and also to
operate a regional sewage treatment facility and other types of public infrastructure.
•Waterfront’s connection with downtown. This connection is an important part of Edmonds’ identify.
Moreover, the economic value and convenience of having businesses and public facilities in both the
waterfront and historic downtown areas significantly contribute to the city’s tax revenues, which in
turn fund essential services for local residents.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 45
Planning Context
In 2021, the City conducted a waterfront study to understand new information about the waterfront
area and to make some corresponding preliminary recommendations for considering the area’s future.
The preliminary study recommended that a vision be developed to address:
•Land use and transportation policies that recognize the existing ferry terminal
•Desired land use of the Unocal property
•The Edmonds Marsh and Willow Creek restoration project, including refined cost estimates, design, and
flood mitigation planning.
•Emergency management needs of the waterfront.
The 2021 study was a good start. It led to initial public engagement exercises that identified ideas and
amenities of interest to community members. Going forward, a variety of interested parties, including
the tribes, the Port, environmental advocates, businesses, and affected property owners, also will be
involved in developing a future vision that takes into account different needs and practical next steps.
Goal LU-9 Promote Edmonds waterfront as a destination with enhanced pedestrian
experiences and vibrant public realm.
Policy LU-9.1 Maintain existing parks as high-quality, safe places and consider opportunities to create
new public spaces, and plazas through partnerships and capital investments.
Policy LU-9.2 Enhance pedestrian safety and walkability along the waterfront, with improved
infrastructure, signalized intersections, and new pedestrian connections.
Policy LU-9.3 Encourage gathering spaces for cultural festivals, music, and seasonal events to foster
community interaction and cultural appreciation.
Goal LU-10 Enhance ecological functionality and promote the restoration of natural
habitats, supporting community education, recreation and natural habitat
sustainability.
Policy LU-10.1 Restore and reclaim Edmonds Marsh as a vital ecological, educational and recreational
area.
Policy LU-10.2 Prioritize salmon restoration in ecological planning and development.
Policy LU-10.3 Remove or modify barriers, such as culverts, to improve fish passage.
Goal LU-11 Encourage economic vitality, public safety, and recreational and cultural
activities.
Policy LU-11.1 Support opportunities for businesses and services to operate or expand in appropriate
locations.
Policy LU-11.2 Include economic considerations in planning for the waterfront
Policy LU-11.3 Seek and implement improvements, as feasible, to ensure emergency access to the
waterfront.
Policy LU-11.4 Maintain and enhance the connection of parks and public spaces between the
waterfront and downtown.
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Highway 99 Activity Center and Subarea
The Edmonds Highway 99 subarea is located along approximately 2 miles of Highway 99 and
bordered by several jurisdictions – Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline, and the unincorporated
Snohomish County neighborhood of Esperance. It is mostly comprised of strip of retail and commercial
uses bounded by residential neighborhoods. The city adopted the Highway 99 Subarea Plan in 2017.
This subarea plan describes concepts for the area with direction for transportation facilities and the
built environment. The subarea plan also describes relationships to surrounding residential areas and
themed “character areas” or districts.
Gateway District
The goal of the gateway district is to provide
a positive experience entering Edmonds and
an anchor for the south end of the Highway
99 corridor. Key to this is creating community
gathering spaces and activity nodes, building
a community through mixed use development,
retaining local businesses, addressing traffic
and intersection challenges, connecting to the
interurban trail, and maintaining and expanding
the tree canopy. Quality design of the built
environment should be emphasized. A possible
implementation strategy for the gateway district is
a community renewal area.
International District
The international district is known for its cultural
significance and diversity. As a great asset to
Edmonds, the land use strategy plays a vital role
in protecting and growing this community. The
community has expressed interest in venues that
can host live music, festivals, and markets, as
well as outdoor spaces such as Asian gardens.
Business growth and retention is particularly
important for this character area. Development
should include a variety of culturally relevant
design features that, when taken as a whole,
clearly indicate to visitors the extents of the
district.
Figure 2.7 Distinct districts within Highway 99 Subarea
Plan
Health District
With a large hospital complex at its heart, the Highway 99 health district aims to grow its healthcare-
adjacent business, amenities, and services. Housing needs include short term housing such as hotels
to serve visitors to the hospital, as well as housing for seniors and others who could benefit from direct
access to medical services and facilities. The proposed new Neighborhood center called the Medical
District Expansion is developed as continuation of this district outside the subarea plan boundary.
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The basis for land use decision-making along Highway 99 will continue to be the Highway 99 Subarea
Plan. However, several area-wide themes will be emphasized, as well as further development of each
of the three character areas along Highway 99.
Goal LU-12 Enable Hwy-99 Subarea’s transition to a mixed-use, walkable environment.
Policy LU-12.1 Leverage the proximity of the light rail station when proposing changes to land use or
encouraging a diverse mix of uses. Prioritize developments that complement transit access,
such as mixed-use buildings, pedestrian-friendly amenities, and services that enhance the
station area’s vibrancy and connectivity.
Policy LU-12.2 Promote pedestrian- and bike-friendly growth, with a focus on providing safe access,
through-block connections, adequate lighting, and high-quality streetscapes.
Policy LU-12.3 Explore funding opportunities at the state and regional level for infrastructure
improvements that can support the subarea’s land use strategies
Policy LU-12.4 Increase frequency and visibility of pedestrian crossings at key cross streets and bus
stops on Highway 99.
Policy LU-12.5 Apply traffic calming best practices to facilitate pedestrian, business, and residential
access while maintaining traffic capacity along Highway 99. Continue to collaborate with
WSDOT to develop a circulation management plan.
Policy LU-12.6 Prioritize access through side streets and minimize curb cuts for new and existing
developments to enhance safety while minimizing impacts to surrounding residential
neighborhoods.
Goal LU-13 Emphasize the unique opportunities of the Gateway, International, and
Health districts along Highway 99.
Policy LU-13.1 Foster and enhance the unique character of the International District by:
•Protecting and supporting the business cluster while mitigating displacement due to redevelopment.
•Incorporating culturally significant design elements into public spaces, buildings, and infrastructure to
preserve and enhance the districts’ unique identity
Policy LU-13.2 Develop the Gateway District as a distinct transition point on Highway 99 by:
•Promoting urban design features in the southern gateway district and the northern entry to Edmonds
along Highway 99 that create a sense of arrival.
•Integrating public art, high-quality streetscape features, and encouraging high-quality gateway features
on private development within these areas.
Policy LU-13.3 Develop the Health district as a complement to the Medical Activity Center, to grow
a diverse and comprehensive health-focused area. Encourage research partnerships, health
and wellness advocacy and education opportunities. Expand housing choices to meet specific
needs such as short-term housing for families and individuals, specialized housing for people
with chronic illnesses and disabilities, especially for low-income groups.
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Goal LU-14 Encourage transitioning of development scale between certain districts and
seek small-scale improvements for public spaces.
Policy LU-14.1 Support neighborly transitions between low—density residential and more intense types
of development in selected areas within the subarea boundary. Explore increasing the height
allowance for some parcels adjacent to Highway 99 and SWIFT BRT bus stops while ensuring
the net growth capacity of the Highway 99 subarea is not affected.
Policy LU-14.2 Consider branding elements expressed through public and local art, street furniture, bus
shelter designs, pavement patterns, special lighting fixtures, colored crosswalks, or banners.
Policy LU-14.3 Wayfinding elements should indicate that the corridor is within the City of Edmonds and
show how connections can be made to key Edmonds destinations.
Priority-Use Areas
Residential Neighborhoods
Goal LU-15 Ensure the availability of quality housing to all sections of the community,
accommodating the spectrum of housing needs and preferences.
Policy LU-15.1 Encourage and monitor the shift from single-family dominant residential zoning to low-
density and medium-density residential zones to provide a wide variety of housing types and
sizes, while keeping the quality of living a priority.
Policy LU-15.2 Adjust development standards and regulations that act as barriers to the possibility of
middle housing in residential zones,
Policy LU-15.3 Encourage middle housing typologies of different sizes and affordability levels to make
housing available for individuals and families of all sizes, in compliance with the state legislation.
Policy LU-15.4 Apply contextually appropriate standards and regulations to transition between low
density, medium residential and mixed-use zone.
Commercial Areas
Goal LU-16 Locate commercial development in Edmonds to take advantage of its
unique economic opportunities while being compatible with the surrounding
neighborhood.
Policy LU-16.1 The design and location of commercial sites should provide for convenient and safe
access for customers, employees, and suppliers.
Policy LU-16.2 Commercial developments should be designed to minimize the impacts of traffic and
noise.
Policy LU-16.3 Discourage poorly connected strip commercial areas along Edmonds streets and
highways.
Policy LU-16.4 Encourage location of vehicular parking behind buildings to promote a pedestrian
friendly street frontage
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Policy LU-16.5 Minimize curb cuts where possible, especially along streets with pedestrian traffic.
Policy LU-16.6 Promote inclusion of public amenities such as pocket parks, plazas, and community
spaces in commercial developments.
Industrial Areas
Goal LU-17 Ensure that any new industrial development in Edmonds contributes to
economic growth and stability while preserving the quality of life and protecting
the environment
Policy LU-17.1 Light industrial uses should be given preference over heavy industrial uses. The industry
type should not degrade Edmonds’ natural or residential living environment.
Policy LU-17.2 Adequate buffers for landscaping, compatible transitional land uses and open space
should be utilized to protect surrounding land areas from the adverse effects of industrial land
use. Particular attention should be given to protecting residential areas, parks and other public-
institutional land uses.
Policy LU-17.3 All industrial areas should be located where direct access can be provided to regional
ground transportation systems (major State Highways and/or railroad lines).
Figure 2.8 Edmonds Downtown (Source: Edmonds Downtown Alliance)
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50 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Open Space
The 2022 Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan (PROS Plan) is a six-year guide and strategic plan for
managing and enhancing park and recreation services in Edmonds. It establishes a path forward for
providing high quality, community-driven parks, trails, open spaces and recreational opportunities.
The Edmonds community is fortunate to have retained several significant natural areas across the City.
Approximately 75 acres of open space are owned and managed by the City, in coordination with the
acreage of developed parks. These open space properties include forested lands, waterfronts, and
wetlands across 13 different sites.
The open space classification distinguishes natural lands from parks developed for active recreation
and other highly managed landscapes. Open space may refer to public properties that are exclusively
natural areas or portions of larger parks that are managed as natural areas. These open space
lands are managed to preserve, restore, and conserve ecosystem functions, native vegetation, and
wildlife habitat. Open space properties are undeveloped, primarily left in their natural form, and are
managed to retain or enhance natural or scenic resources. However, open space may include trails or
interpretive signs, along with modest support amenities such as parking or restrooms.
Goal LU-18 Expand and enhance open space in the community to improve
environmental quality and overall community well-being
Policy LU-18.1 Evaluate the suitability of undeveloped public properties to serve as open space.
Policy LU-18.2 No city-owned property should be relinquished until reasonable community uses and
related costs have been explored.
Policy LU-18.3 Seek opportunities to increase open spaces, especially:
•Natural and green belt areas adjacent to highways and arterials
•Areas that have steep slopes or are in major stream drainage ways
•Wetlands
•Land that can serve as buffers between high noise environments and sensitive uses.
•Lands that would have unique suitability for future passive or active recreational use.
Goal LU-19 Support the goals of the City’s Parks Recreation and Open Space (PROS)
Plan
Policy LU-19.1 Provide an interconnected park system that offers a wide variety of year-round recreation
opportunities and experiences which support and enhance Edmonds’ cultural identity and the
natural environment.
Policy LU-19.2 Preserve and pursue opportunities to expand public access and enjoyment of Edmonds
open space and recreational facilities.
Policy LU-19.3 Conserve and provide access to natural resource lands for habitat conservation,
recreation, and environmental education.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 51
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Meadowdale
Beach Park
Snohomish
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Lynndale Park
Meadowdale
Playfield
Esperance
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Ballinger
Park
¹0 0.5 1 1.5 20.25 Miles
Legend
City Limits
City Parks
Open Space & Special Use Areas
Non-city Parks
Non-cityParks w/ Interlocal Agreements
Edmonds School District
Water
n Schools
Map 1: Existing Parks & Open Spaces
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ID# Park Name Classification
1 144 Railroad Ave Tidelands Waterfront Park
2 Brackett's Landing North Waterfront Park
3 Brackett's Landing South Waterfront Park
4 Centennial Plaza Special Use Park
5 City Park Community Park
6 Civic Center Playfield Community Park
7 Dayton St Plazas Special Use Park
8 Edmonds Library Plaza Special Use Park
9 Edmonds Marsh Open Space
10 Edmonds Memorial Cemetery Special Use Park
11 Waterfront Center Park Waterfront Park
12 Elm St Park Neighborhood Park
13 Frances Anderson Center Special Use Park
14 Frances Anderson Center Field Neighborhood Park
15 H.O. Hutt Park Open Space
16 Haines Tidelands Open Space
17 Haines Wharf Neighborhood Park
18 Hazel Miller Plaza Special Use Park
19 Hickman Park Neighborhood Park
20 Hummingbird Hill Park Neighborhood Park
21 Interurban Trail Special Use Park
22 Lake Ballinger Access Special Use Park
23 Maplewood Hill Park Open Space
24 Marina Beach Park Waterfront Park
25 Mathay Ballinger Park Neighborhood Park
26 Meadowdale Clubhouse Special Use Park
27 Meadowdale Natural Areas Open Space
28 Ocean Ave Viewpoint Special Use Park
29 Olympic Beach Waterfront Park
30 Olympic View Open Space Open Space
31 Pine Ridge Ext (SW)Open Space
32 Pine Ridge Park Open Space
33 Pine St Park Neighborhood Park
34 Richard F. Anway Park Special Use Park
35 Seaview Park Neighborhood Park
36 Seaview Reservoir Open Space
37 Shell Creek Open Space Open Space
38 Sierra Park Neighborhood Park
39 Stamm Overlook Special Use Park
40 Sunset Ave Special Use Park
41 Veterans Plaza Special Use Park
42 Wharf Street Open Space
43 Willow Creek Park Open Space
44 Yost Memorial Park Community Park
45 Lynndale Skate Park Special Use Park
46 Meadowdale Playfields Community Park
47 Underwater Dive Park Special Use Park
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Figure 2.9 Existing Parks and Open Spaces (Source: Edmonds Parks, Recreation & Open Space Plan 2022-2027)
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52 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
The Natural Environment
The Natural Environment section serves as a guiding framework for the responsible stewardship of
natural resources within the city, aligning with the community’s vision and priorities. It encompasses
considerations such as soils and vegetation, wildlife, open space preservation, equity, harmonious
integration of built and natural environments, and collaboration on regional natural resource issues.
Natural critical areas require careful management to balance development with environmental
conservation. These areas, such as marshes, floodplains, and steep slopes, play crucial roles in
maintaining biodiversity, mitigating natural hazards, and preserving water quality.
In 2022, the city became aware of two Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas (CARAs) in Edmonds. They
are Olympic View Water and Sewer District wellhead protection areas. According to the state Growth
Management Act, CARAs are critical areas which must be regulated and protected using best available
science (BAS).
The Shoreline Master Program (SMP) applies to shorelines within the City and establishes standards
for shoreline development. The shoreline areas within the City of Edmonds jurisdiction include Puget
Sound, Lake Ballinger, and the tidally influenced portions of the Edmonds Marsh. Shoreline Jurisdiction
also applies to upland areas within 200 feet of the shoreline edge (ordinary high-water mark) and
associated wetlands.
Goal LU-20 New development should be compatible with the natural constraints of
slopes, soils, geology, drainage, vegetation and habitat.
Policy LU-20.1 Designate and protect critical areas using the best available science (BAS) pursuant to
RCW 36.70A.172 and long-range climate change projections.
Policy LU-20.2 In addition to regulations, provide incentives that encourage environmental
stewardship, resource conservation, and environmental enhancement during development
activities.
Policy LU-20.3 When an alteration to a critical area or its buffer is proposed, such alteration should be
avoided, minimized, or compensated. Where appropriate, use adaptive management to monitor
and evaluate effectiveness of such alterations and consider whether regulations should be
updated to achieve the level of protection intended in the regulations.
Goal LU-21 Encourage low impact development approaches for managing stormwater.
Policy LU-21.1 Encourage retaining native vegetation, reducing impervious surfaces, and protecting
habitat.
Policy LU-21.2 Promote the use of best management practices (BMPs) for stormwater to enhance
infiltration and reduce runoff, such as permeable pavements, green roofs, green streets, rain
gardens, and retention basins.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 53
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Figure 2.10 Critical Areas (Source: City of Edmonds)
Creek
Seismic Hazard Areas
Earth Subsidence and
Landslide Area
Adjacent to Hazard
Wetlands
Wetland Boundaries Not
Completely Delineated
Wetland Known Extents
Floodplain Zones
Wellhead Protection Areas
A
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6 Month
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54 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Goal LU-22 Protect the quality and quantity of groundwater used for public water
supplies.
Policy LU-22.1 Limit land use activities that would negatively impact groundwater recharge.
Policy LU-22.2 Restrict or prohibit activities that pose a high risk of contaminating the aquifer.
Policy LU-22.3 Encourage projects that actively enhance aquifer recharge, such as artificial recharge
basins, managed aquifer recharge (MAR) systems, and restoring natural recharge areas.
Policy LU-22.4 Collaborate with Olympic View Water and Sewer District to monitor periodic
assessment of groundwater levels, recharge rates, and water quality.
Policy LU-22.5 Use environmental regulations that reflect the best available science for Critical Aquifer
Recharge Areas (CARAs), to protect groundwater resources.
Policy LU-22.6 Consider investing in stormwater management facilities to reduce impacts on
groundwater resources, especially in Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas.
Soil and Topography
Goal LU-23 Facilitate responsible development practices in areas with steep
slopes and potentially hazardous soil conditions.
Policy LU-23.1 Designate areas where development is restricted or prohibited based on slope
gradients and soil stability assessments.
Policy LU-23.2 Require special permits for developments in identified high-risk areas, ensuring
thorough review and compliance with safety standards.
Policy LU-23.3 Consider flexible lot line adjustment and lot combination and division to allow parcels
with steep slopes to preserve the site and reduce impervious surfaces, cuts, and fills.
Policy LU-23.4 Encourage streets and access ways to conform to the natural topography, reducing
runoff and minimize grading of hillsides.
Policy LU-23.5 Use special design and building standards based upon best management practices
to mitigate the impacts of development on and adjacent to steep slopes, erosion hazard, and
landslide hazard areas.
•Regularly update City building and development codes to incorporate the best and latest standards for
minimizing damage caused by seismic activities and consider such hazards when locating land uses and
intensities.
Policy LU-23.6 Encourage opportunities for increasing seismic safety while retaining historic buildings.
Policy LU-23.7 Provide for buffers around the perimeter of undevelopable landslide hazard areas to
minimize the risk to human life and safety.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 55
Habitat, Vegetation and Wildlife
Goal LU-24 Preserve and enhance natural habitats woodlands, marshes, wetlands and
other natural areas.
Policy LU-24.1 Improve water quality, fish habitat, and wildlife resources consistent with adopted state
and federal standards.
Policy LU-24.2 Participate in regional efforts to recover Priority Habitats and Species including through
watershed planning, restoration, implementation efforts, the WRIA 8 Salmon Recovery program,
and other recovery actions.
Policy LU-24.3 Avoid introduction of invasive plant and animal species into natural areas. Prioritize the
use of native plants in landscaping of public properties and right of ways. Apply best available
science to support habitat restoration and expansion.
Policy LU-24.4 Seek opportunities to restore and enhance the Edmonds Marsh as an estuary.
Policy LU-24.5 Identify and implement targeted public projects to improve salmon habitat and help
ensure the protection and recovery of the native salmon population.
Goal LU-25 Promote and increase public awareness and pride in Edmonds’ wildlife
heritage.
Policy LU-25.1 Through partnerships and coordination, seek to provide education and recreational
programs and activities for all age levels.
Policy LU-25.2 Encourage public educational displays that identify some of the more common plants
and animals and their ecosystems and habitats, including at streams, beaches, and marshes.
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56 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Tree Canopy
The urban forest in Edmonds is a vital component
of the city’s infrastructure. However, as with many
communities, Edmonds is facing environmental
challenges while seeking to balance development
and conservation. A healthy city-wide tree canopy
is crucial for maintaining this balance, serving as
a valuable resource for the well-being of current
and future generations. Trees comprising a broad
age distribution, and a variety of species ensure a
robust and healthy tree canopy over time.
According to the Tree Canopy assessment report
released in 2022, 34.6% of of Edmonds’ land is
covered by tree canopy. The gains in tree
canopy outpaced losses by a very small amount
in the past five years (2015-2020). This may be
attributable to incremental growth of existing
trees, highlighting the importance of preservation
efforts for significant trees and allowing flexibility
to accomplish housing and community objectives
while prioritizing trees and other natural
resources.
Goal LU-26 Expand the tree canopy cover over the next 20 years with a goal of no net
loss.
Policy LU-26.1 Invest in tree plantings in areas that have documented high summer temperatures, risk
of flooding and low tree canopy to enhance ecosystem services and improve equity.
Policy LU-26.2 Prioritize tree preservation within riparian corridors, wetlands, and associated buffers,
and minimize deforestation on steep slopes to maintain stability.
Policy LU-26.3 Reduce clearcutting or other development impacts on the urban forest.
Policy LU-26.4 Promote “Right tree, right place” which ensures a balanced combination of long-lived
native trees and nursery-grown street trees, planted in locations that are suitable for their
growth and contribute to a sustainable urban forest.
Policy LU-26.5 Partner with local nurseries, gardening clubs, environmental organizations, and schools
to promote tree care initiatives and provide resources such as give-away trees and/or tree
vouchers for use in Edmonds.
Policy LU-26.6 Protect significant trees within the community, so that they continue to provide
environmental, aesthetic, and social benefits
Figure 2.11 Existing tree canopy percentage
summarized using 20-acre hexagons
for the year 2020 (Source: Tree Canopy
Assessment Report 2022)
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 57
Potential Action Items
The following list outlines potential action items that can be further explored to guide implementation
efforts, considering the city’s priorities, available resources, and other critical factors. Any such action
that is selected will be designed to support the City’s long-term vision while ensuring compliance with
the Growth Management Act (GMA).
•Develop a ‘complete streets’ street typology manual that considers land use in street design and
functionality.
•Develop a street activation toolkit to facilitate community led events that temporarily utilize the right
of way for local gatherings in all centers and hubs
•Utilize the Green Street manual as a tool to identify and design transportation and stormwater
projects citywide
•Conduct a well-reasoned analysis of local policies and regulations contributing to racially disparate
impacts, displacement, and exclusion at neighborhood level and take necessary actions to undo
impacts.
•Identify festival streets that could serve as periodic public spaces, designed with the goal of
pedestrian comfort and providing flexibility to accommodate occasional events
•Adopt tools to minimize impacts on adjacent lower-density residentially zoned properties, such as
landscape buffers, tree retention, high-quality design elements, adequate parking, and low lighting
and noise levels
•Encourage developers to unbundle parking costs from rent, allowing tenants to opt out of paying for
parking spaces they do not need.
Waterfront:
•Create people centered hubs that are pedestrian-only zones, free of vehicular traffic, to expand
usable open spaces for recreating, socializing and hosting events.
•Develop signature pedestrian routes, with wide sidewalks, lighting and wayfinding, that connect
parks, key activity nodes, and downtown Edmonds
•Use interpretative signage and/or art to highlight the historic and ecological significance of the
waterfront.
•Develop additional pocket parks and open spaces along the boardwalk, connected by bike and
pedestrian pathways for increased accessibility.
•Provide diverse and inclusive amenities and activities that cater to all community members, visitors
enhancing the recreational and cultural vibrancy of the waterfront.
•Design a network of pathways, boardwalks, and trails that prioritize pedestrians and connect key
destinations.
•Continue implementing a continuous shoreline walkway (boardwalk/esplanade) from Brackett’s
Landing North to Marina Beach Park. Work with the Port of Edmonds to integrate recreation and
marina functions into the long-term plan.
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58 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
•Rebuild Marina Beach Park to enhance access and incorporate green spaces, providing a revitalized
recreational area for the community.
•Restore and reclaim Edmonds Marsh as a vital ecological, educational and recreational area,
designating it as an open space with water access for passive recreation.
•Support evaluation and establishment of a regional wildlife sanctuary and recreation area at the
southern end of the Edmonds Waterfront. (Includes but not limited to the Edmonds Marsh-Estuary,
adjacent wetland open spaces, the Unocal/WSDOT property, Marina Beach, city park, Willow Creek,
and Shellabarger creek
•Prioritize salmon restoration in all ecological planning and development. Support projects like Willow
creek daylighting encouraging salmon restoration. Facilitate expansion of “Willow Creek Salmon
Hatchery & Habitat Center” as the gateway to the restored Edmonds Marsh at SR 104/ Pine St.
•Redevelop Marina Beach Park to enhance recreational amenities while preserving natural habitats.
•Design boardwalk loop with viewing platforms, observation decks, educational signage, and wide
landscape promenades to the Edmonds Marsh without impacting the environment, enhancing its
ecological, educational and recreational value
•Create pathways to protect flora and fauna, minimize ecological disturbance, and prevent habitat
destruction.
•Rehabilitate and protect riparian zones along streams to improve water quality and provide essential
habitat for salmon
•Identify, remove or modify barriers such as culverts, dams, pipes and weirs that impede salmon
migration, ensuring free passage for all life stages of salmon
•Partner with organizations to educate community, partner with landowners, Tribes, government
agencies, community groups, businesses and other nonprofits to develop supportive programs
and exhibits to educate local residents and visitors about Edmonds unique eco systems, ecological
conservation and significance.
•Encourage programs related to ecological education in local schools
•Facilitate the growth of the education centers such as Restoration Education Center or Willow Creek
Salmon Hatchery, Watershed Education Center, to provide learning opportunities related to the local
watershed and salmon habitat.
Highway 99 Subarea
•Establish a structured and regular schedule for engaging with the Highway 99 community to ensure
ongoing, meaningful participation and input.
Critical Areas
•Implement performance-based standards that encourage developers to meet specific environmental
outcomes rather than prescriptive requirements
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: LAND USE 59
Soil & Topography
•Grading, filling, and tree cutting should be restricted to building pads, reasonable construction
clearance, driveways, access ways and other impervious surfaces
•Grading should not jeopardize the stability of any slope, or of an adjacent property
•Only minimal amounts of cut and fill on hillsides should be permitted so that the natural topography
can be preserved. Fill should not be used to create a yard on steeply sloped property
•Fill and excavated dirt shall not be pushed down the slope
•Minimize deforestation and encourage planting of deep-rooted vegetation and mulch (of suitable
native varieties) to prevent siltation of drainage ways and improve stability on steep slopes
•Ensure proper design and maintenance of drainage systems to manage surface water runoff and
prevent soil saturation
Tree Canopy
•Reassess city tree canopy at five-year intervals to monitor change and make strategic management
decisions.
•Include a tree planting budget and a maintenance plan in all rights-of-way and other capital
transportation projects
•Create volunteer programs to assist elderly or disabled residents with tree care tasks, leveraging
community involvement and support
•Consider a tree protection ordinance that outlines the criteria for significant trees (factors such as
size, species, age, historical significance, and ecological value) and specifies the protections afforded
to them
•Consider requiring permits for any activity that could potentially impact significant trees, including
pruning, removal, and construction activities within the tree’s critical root zone
•Consider the replacement of removed significant trees with appropriate species and sizes, ensuring
no net loss of tree canopy
7.A.a
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 61
HOUSINGHOUSING
HOUSINGHOUSING
Guiding Principle:
“Edmonds is an inclusive community where every
resident, regardless of their income, background, or
ability, has access to safe, affordable, and dignified
housing”
7.A.b
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62 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 63
Introduction
The Housing Element for the City of Edmonds outlines the strategies and policies to ensure the
availability of safe, affordable, and diverse housing options for all residents. It includes an assessment
of current housing conditions. It plays a pivotal role in guiding the development, preservation, and
enhancement of the housing stock to meet current and future demands in alignment with local
regulations and sustainability goals.
Housing in Edmonds offers a diverse mix, predominantly featuring single-family homes that
contribute to the city’s traditional, suburban feel. These homes are often situated in well-established
neighborhoods, many of which boast mature trees, scenic views, and a close-knit community
atmosphere. Alongside these, townhouses provide a more compact and often more affordable option,
catering to those seeking a balance between private living space and lower maintenance. In recent
years, there has been a noticeable increase in multifamily developments, including apartments and
condominiums.
The city is committed to providing a range of housing options to meet the needs of its residents, from
young families to retirees, while maintaining the unique character and charm that make Edmonds a
desirable place to live.
As the city continues to grow, housing affordability and availability are key concerns. Edmonds strives
to balance new development with the preservation of its established neighborhoods, ensuring that
housing options are accessible and sustainable for all residents. The city’s housing policies are
designed to promote a diverse housing stock, encourage sustainable building practices, and support
the creation of affordable housing options that align with the community’s values and future growth
plans.
7.A.b
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64 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Edmonds Housing Today
Edmonds’ well-established neighborhoods are
one of the City’s most desirable assets, and
critical building blocks to a great community. The
city is home to 42,853 people as of 2020 and is
anticipated to welcome about 13,113 new residents
by 2044. According to the Office of Financial
Management (OFM), there were an estimated
18,847 housing units within the City of Edmonds in
2020.
Housing Types
As of 2024, Edmonds’ current housing stock
contains a mix of low density detached units,
attached townhomes, and larger apartments and
condominiums. The current mix of housing stock
is shown in Figure 3.1
Since Edmonds does not have much availalble
undeveloped land, future development
for population growth will mostly occur as
redevelopment or infill over time. This will be
accomplished with sensitivity and care to maintain
the charm of Edmonds’ distinct neighborhoods.
More detail on this can be found in the Land Use
chapter of this comprehensive plan.
Figure 3.1 Figure Caption
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 65
Household Size and Vacancy
Although regional household size has been trending downwards for decades due to an increasingly
senior population with fewer children, household size has grown since 2010. Washington State
Department of Commerce attributes the increase in average household size to the under-building
of housing, leading to people living in multigenerational housing or with roommates, not by choice
but because of the lack of affordable housing. However, the Department of Commerce assumes
a continued decline in household size coincident with demographic trends. Likewise, the city of
Edmonds has a vacancy rate of 4.2%, which is artificially small due to low housing availability. The
Washington State Department of Commerce has directed cities to plan for an economically healthy
vacancy rate of 6%.
Household size is generally related to the number of bedrooms. The distribution in number of
bedrooms for the city of Edmonds existing housing stock is shown in Figure 3.2.
Edmonds Housing Targets
Edmonds is committed to guiding growth in a manner that is equitable and sustainable. This will be
done by increasing the quantity of housing stock and diversity of housing choices, including middle
housing and accessory dwelling units (see Appendix A), and identifying and addressing racially
disparate impacts of housing policy. As part of doing its part in addressing critical regional needs,
Snohomish County’s H0-5 Report (adopted May 2023) relates the City of Edmonds’ housing targets.
Edmonds has a future land supply established in 2021 of 5,148 (see Figure 3.4).
Figure 3.2 No of bedrooms distribution Source: Census 2020
Figure 3.3 Edmonds future land supply Source: The Housing Characteristics and Needs in Snohomish County report
2023 (H0 5 Report)
Status Buildable
Acres
Single-
Family
Town-
houses Multi-Family Senior
Apartments Total
Pending 17 49 15 561 0 625
Vacant 44 115 7 422 31 575
Partially Used 21 62 0 0 0 62
Redevelopable 231 -24 63 3508 340 3887
City 313 201 84 4491 371 5148
7.A.b
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66 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
By 2044, the unit mix for Edmonds is anticipated to be more diverse, providing a greater amount of
housing choices, especially among housing types such as apartments and condominiums, which tend
to be more affordable than others.
Figure 3.6 Required allocation of housing units as per affordability levels designated House Bill 1220
Figure 3.7 Existing Mix of housing types (Census 2020) and potential mix of housing types as per House Bills
compliance (2044)
In this planning cycle to accommodate population growth, the City must increase its unit capacity
by 3,921, for a total of 9,069 housing units. These 9,069 units must be distributed according to the
requirements and affordability levels designated in HB 1220. Edmonds’ designation as a “high-cost
community” impacts the required allocation for types of housing units.
Edmonds must plan for:
Area Median
Income (AMI)
Range (Assumed
affordability level)
Typical Housing
Types allowed
No of Housing
Units for each
category
Existing Capacity
NET No of
Housing Units for
each category
Low 0-80% AMI
Low-Rise or Mid-Rise
Multi-family. (For eg.
Walk-up apartment
buildings)
6,814 4,862 1,952
Moderate <80-120%
AMI
ADUs or Low-rise/
Mid-rise 2,129 0 2,129
Higher Income >120%
AMI
Detached single
family homes, Middle
Housing- Townhomes,
Duplex, Triplex,
Quadplex
126 84 42
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 67
Housing Diversity
Goal H-1. Enable diverse housing types for people of all economic and demographic
backgrounds.
Policy H-1.1 Housing developments within the neighborhood centers and hubs should promote diverse
housing. Provide a mix of housing types and densities shaped through integrated place-making
strategies.
Policy H-1.2 Encourage infill developments supporting neighborhood life and businesses in centers
and hubs.
Policy H-1.3 Enable and promote live-work developments in areas that already allow commercial, and
retail uses to accommodate living and employment within the same premises.
Policy H-1.4 Establish partnerships with employers, local businesses, developers, nonprofits to
promote housing projects affordable and accessible to the local workforce with focus on
employees in critical sectors such as healthcare, retail, education, and hospitality.
In a co-housing community, residents typically
have their own private living spaces, such as
individual apartments or houses, and share
some common facilities and amenities.
Policy H-1.5 Explore funding opportunities and
grants to support the development of
diverse housing typologies.
Policy H-1.6 Identify and remove existing
regulatory barriers and provide
opportunities to support co-housing.
7.A.b
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68 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Housing Affordability and Equity
Housing affordability is defined as area rents and home prices relative to area incomes and is a
result of a combination of various factors. The Puget Sound’s growth as a powerful economic engine
has not been matched with regional housing production, and thus has had significant impacts on
regional housing affordability. Like most communities in the Puget Sound, Edmonds access to job
centers has led to a steep increase in home prices, stalled only briefly by the COVID-19 pandemic and
its subsequent economic effects. Edmonds natural beauty furthermore attracts many homebuyers,
leading to higher housing costs.
The falling affordability of Edmonds can be seen in the home sales affordability index, showing a
reduced proportion of homes being sold at prices that would be affordable to low- and moderate-
income brackets since 2010. (Figure 3.8)
Income Category Required income and Affordable sale price range
Extremely Low Income Required Income <$40,000, Sale Price <$200,000
Very Low Income Required Income <$68,000, Sale Price <$300,000
Low Income Required Income <$99,900, Sale Price <$460,000
Moderate Income Required Income <$128,800, Sale Price <$590,000
Middle Income Required Income <$162,700, Sale Price <$900,000
Figure 3.8 Home Sales Affordability (Source: AHA)
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 69
Housing Stock
Edmonds’ housing stock is older than its
regional peers, which means that some
of these homes are more affordable
than comparable newer ones in other
communities.. Much of the existing
housing stock was built between
1950 and 1969. As part of the greater
Seattle metropolitan area, Edmonds
experienced growth earlier than most
in Snohomish County. Older properties
that have multifamily development are
particularly valuable in addressing
affordable housing needs, and the
maintenance and preservation of this
housing should be prioritized when
identifying places to address regional
housing supply goals.
Housing Cost Burdens
While there have been benefits to many
residents associated with increased
home values, others have experienced
rising costs as burdens and barriers.
These people include the members of
the community who are renters, seniors
on fixed incomes, young families, and
community members who fill roles critical
to maintaining Edmonds community,
such as artists, teachers, firefighters,
retail workers, and other community-
supportive jobs.
It is necessary to proactively address
housing affordability to ensure those
that serve the has limited ability to
directly participate in the construction
or provision of affordable housing,
so it has chosen instead to affect
the cost of housing by reducing
government regulation, providing
flexible development standards, and
otherwise minimize housing costs that
would be passed on to prospective
owners or renters. Beyond increasing
Figure 3.9 Age of housing stock (Source: AHA)
Figure 3.10 Selected Monthly Owner Costs as a Percentage of
Household Income (SMOCAPI) and Gross Rent as a
Percentage of Household Income (GRAPI) (Source:
Census 2020)
7.A.b
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70 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
the allowances of unit types such as middle housing and accessory dwelling units (ADUs), apartments
and condominiums tend to be more affordable, Edmonds is committed to further supporting housing
affordability through streamlined permitting and opportunities for different lot configurations.
Locating New Housing Capacity
Most of Edmonds’ new housing capacity will be created in newly designated Centers and Hubs (see
the Land Use Chapter of this comprehensive plan for more information). These areas will serve as
hearts for vibrant and diverse neighborhoods while concentrating growth in areas best served by
existing infrastructure, transit, and community amenities. This approach both reduces the cost of land
development, allowing for lower home purchase prices and rents, and enables a lower-cost lifestyle
for residents, allowing them, for example, to forgo automobile trips for more affordable transportation
options when feasible.
Figure 3.11 Race distribution here is alone or in combination with
one or more other races Cost burdened is defined as
spending more than 30% of income on housing needs.
(Source: Census 2020)
The city of Edmonds encourages fair
and accessible housing opportunities
for all families and individuals in
the community regardless of their
race, age, sex, religion, disability or
economic circumstances. A racially
disparate impacts analysis has guided
the formation of this housing plan, and
the housing and land use strategy is
aimed at reducing these impacts. At
present, Edmonds has a higher share
of minorities who are cost burdened
as well as a higher share of minorities
who are renters. This indicates that
these community members are at higher
risk of displacement both due to rising
housing costs, as well as redevelopment
necessary to address these rising
housing costs. Thus, it is critical to
identify where these communities lie
to ensure redevelopment areas do
not disproportionately fall on these
communities.
Addressing Racial Equity and Displacement
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 71
The Snohomish County social vulnerability (Ref Figure 3.12) shows where vulnerable populations
reside, while the Washington State environmental health disparities map (Ref Figure 3.13) shows where
environmental impacts associated with negative health outcomes are. Although both analyses are
limited in resolution to the tract level, they indicate that there is increased environmental health issues
and social vulnerability near the Highway 99 corridor.
Figure 3.12 Social Vulnerability Index based on Household Composition and Disability,
Housing type and transportation, Race and Ethnicity and Socio-economic
determinants Source: Washington State Department of Health Disparities Map
7.A.b
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72 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
The city’s approach prioritizes the equitable distribution of growth, public investment, and housing
resources through the proposed neighborhood centers and hubs located throughout the city, many
of which are in areas of greater opportunity and greater environmental health. By dispersing growth
and providing affordable housing opportunities in these areas, the city is reducing the concentration
of future development previously allocated toward the Highway 99 corridor, thus reducing spatial
inequalities and promoting inclusive development that benefits members of the community across all
socio-economic sectors.
Figure 3.13 Environmnetal Health Disparities Map; Source: Washington State Department of
Health Disparities Map
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 73
Housing Displacement Risk
The Puget Sound Regional Council’s Study of Housing Displacement Risk has placed Edmonds at
“low” displacement relative to the Puget Sound region. The city of Edmonds is becoming increasingly
racially diverse over the past decade, and there is little to no pattern of historic displacement .
However, the city recognizes that unprecedented changes to housing policy within this comprehensive
plan could nonetheless result in future displacement if not informed by environmental justice,
equitable distribution of opportunities, and sensitivity to existing land use. The city’s approach reduces
potential displacement by accommodating necessary growth through encouraging redevelopment
of underutilized commercial property, rather than existing affordable housing. Furthermore, the ability
to move lot lines will likely have a greater impact facilitating new housing in neighborhoods with
environmentally critical areas, which are also currently among the more expensive and less diverse
neighborhoods relative to the rest of the city.
Figure 3.14 PSRC displacement risk mapping tool identifies areas where residents and businesses are
at greater risk of displacement. Source: PSRC
7.A.b
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74 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Many of the measures outlined below will further assist in reducing the potential for future
displacement and equitably distributing the benefits of investment and growth.
Goal H-2. Implement measures to increase the affordable housing supply while
enhancing the public realm in growth areas.
Policy H-2.1 Consider an incentive zoning program to achieve desired housing diversity and public
amenities in growth areas. Consider bonus density incentives, expedited permit review and/
or waivers from site development standards to implement a community amenity provision.
Consider amenities such as, but not limited to:
•Community dedicated spaces
•Beyond-code requirements for pedestrian facilities and connections
•High-quality public realm or on-site landscape features
Policy H-2.2 Allow affordable housing development on land owned by religious institutions as a
permitted use. The affordability requirement should correspond with HB1337 legislation.
Policy H-2.3 Provide for a higher number of units per lot around the transit stops in activity centers,
neighborhood centers and hubs.
Policy H-2.4 Consider the reduction of parking requirements for residential developments in areas
proximate to transit service or based on planned occupancy (such as seniors, affordable units)
to reduce construction costs and to promote affordability of residential development.
Policy H-2.5 Leverage public-private partnerships to create affordable housing integrated with
community resources, such as libraries, enhancing both housing availability and community
amenities.
Goal H-3. Achieve a net positive number of housing units per lot in activity centers,
neighborhood centers and hubs.
Policy H-3.1 Explore a requirement for an equal or greater number of housing units when property in a
center or hub is redeveloped.
Policy H-3.2 Encourage accessible open space and shared amenities with development of housing in
centers and hubs.
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 75
People’s Policies
Goal H-4. Promote rehabilitating and restoring suitable housing stock.
Policy H-4.1 Partner with the Edmonds Historic Preservation Commission to engage with property
owners, developers, preservationists, and community members to gather input and build
support for historic preservation.
Policy H-4.2 Provide incentives for homeowners who adopt sustainable design practices, materials
and green technologies, in their remodeling projects.
Policy H-4.3 Recognize the value of retaining manufactured homes and other lower-cost housing types
to provide affordable housing.
Goal H-5. Foster access to quality housing for low income, differently abled, impaired
and senior residents.
Policy H-5.1 Seek to identify and utilize State and Federal housing resources to assist in providing
adequate housing opportunities for low income, disabled, or senior residents.
Support the efforts of public and private non-profit agencies that develop assisted housing and/
or housing-related human services, such as services enabling residents to remain in their homes
or neighborhoods.
Policy H-5.2 Support co living, co-housing, micro housing and other types of shared housing
arrangements to make housing affordable for seniors, recent graduates, students, and young
adults.
Policy H-5.3 Partner with non-profit organizations and agencies that specialize in managing shared
housing arrangements and other services.
Goal H-6. Avoid actions that result in the displacement of existing residents,
particularly low-income and marginalized communities.
Policy H-6.1 Explore policies and programs to help support renters at risk of displacement.
Policy H-6.2 Encourage shared housing arrangements to provide affordable housing options, prevent
displacement and offer mental health benefits by alleviating loneliness, particularly among
seniors living in isolation.
Policy H-6.3 Partner with nonprofit organizations or local housing authority such as Housing Authority
of Snohomish County (HASCO) to create a centralized matching service that connects
individuals seeking housing with homeowners or tenants who have available rooms.
7.A.b
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76 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Goal H-7. Work towards eliminating racial inequity in housing distribution.
Policy H-7.1 Engage and partner with communities most disproportionately impacted by housing
challenges in the decision-making process to shape/inform strategies, actions, regulations, and
resource allocation that address and mitigate their housing-related issues.
Goal H-8. Evaluate, leverage and implement housing financing opportunities.
Policy H-8.1 Through the Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) program, support the development of
affordable housing while ensuring long-term sustainability. Consider adjusting the eligibility
criteria, tax benefit periods, and affordability requirements to reflect current housing market
conditions and community needs such as family-oriented housing options.
Policy H-8.2 Explore options for an inclusionary zoning program that provides developers with the
flexibility to either incorporate affordable housing units within their projects or contribute to a
housing fund.
Policy H-8.3 Per RCW 82.14.540, use the City of Edmonds’ share of the existing state sales tax that is
reserved for affordable housing to:
•Provide short-term rental assistance to low-income households in Edmonds.
•Contribute to a regional organization, which could be the County, the Alliance for Housing Affordability
(AHA), or a partnership of cities in southwest Snohomish County to support long term goals of providing
affordable housing in the sub-region.
•Support public private partnerships to develop affordable housing.
Supportive Housing
Assisted Housing Availability
HUD-assisted developments provide units for low-income, senior residents within the City of Edmonds.
The Housing Authority of Snohomish County is also authorized to operate units within the city but
mostly administers Section 8 rent supplement certificates and vouchers within the city. In addition,
various adult family homes provide shelter for residents with special needs.
Goal H-9. Encourage stable housing and wraparound services to individuals
experiencing housing insecurity or at risk of becoming unhoused.
Policy H-9.1 Support county and nonprofit efforts to provide stable housing to individuals experiencing
housing insecurity or at risk of becoming unhoused.
Policy H-9.2 Support development of low-income (subsidized), low-barrier, permanent supportive
housing.
Policy H-9.3 Explore opportunities for small scale housing types, such as micro-housing (shared
kitchen and restrooms)
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 77
Policy H-9.4 Work with faith-based organizations that are interested in adding single-person shelters,
overnight shelters, and temporary small houses on property owned or controlled by a religious
organization.
Policy H-9.5 Allow transitional housing and permanent supportive housing in any zones that allow
residential dwelling units or hotels (RCW 35.21.683 and RCW 35A.21.430).
Policy H-9.6 Allow emergency shelters and emergency housing in any zones that allow hotels.
Policy H-9.7 Allow permanent supportive housing in areas where multifamily housing is permitted
(RCW 35.21.689 and RCW 35A.21.305).
Policy H-9.8 Exempt emergency housing from impact fees (RCW 82.02.090).
Regulatory Framework
Goal H-10. Remove barriers and implement supportive development regulations.
Policy H-10.1 Provide options for lot combination, lot-line adjustment, and subdivisions to accommodate
a modest amount of additional housing and consider adjusting lot coverage requirements to
enable ADU and middle housing typologies per state legislation.
Policy H-10.2 Encourage design that requires varied and articulated roof lines in developments,
preventing the construction of large, monolithic structures with single, unbroken roof lines
Policy H-10.3 Explore options for Planned Residential Development provisions in mixed-use zones to
achieve site-specific flexibility.
Policy H-10.4 Consider options to reduce off-street parking requirements that impact housing
affordability.
Policy H-10.5 Consider adjusting permit fees, impact fees, and utility connection fees if they become
barriers to the development of affordable housing. Identify modifications needed to reduce or
avoid impediment to meeting the City’s housing target.
Policy H-10.6 Explore allowing shared use covenants for open spaces, enabling neighboring residential
units to access and utilize these areas for recreational and communal activities.
Policy H-10.7 Encourage agreements between the city, homeowners’ associations, and neighboring
units for the shared maintenance and stewardship of park spaces
Establish an educational/awareness program that informs applicants about retrofitting
opportunities and the benefits of incorporating retrofitting measures into new constructions.
This program may include workshops, informational materials, and one-on-one consultations to
guide applicants through the process.
7.A.b
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78 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Goal H-11. Provide predictability, effectiveness, and efficiency in government
permitting processes and regulatory systems to support housing development.
Policy H-11.1 Implement clear, efficient, and standardized administrative procedures.
Policy H-11.2 Conduct periodic reviews of the permitting process to identify inefficiencies and
opportunities for improvement.
Policy H-11.3 Explore opportunities to collaborate with neighboring jurisdictions to be consistent with
regulations and processes where feasible.
Adapting to Climate Change
Energy used in buildings is the largest source of local greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Edmonds.
Residential buildings emit roughly twice the quantity of GHGs than commercial and industrial buildings.
Energy consumption in buildings could be cut by about 30–50% through investment in energy
efficiency.
Low-income urban households have an energy burden in the proportion of income spent on energy,
which is three times higher than that of higher income households. Improved energy efficiency can
lower living costs and improve the quality of housing, while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
By supporting weatherization, the city of Edmonds helps increase energy efficiency of homes while
reducing cost burden on vulnerable populations and preserving housing likely to be more affordable.
Goal H-12. Continue to advance building sustainability through regulations and
incentives.
Policy H-12.1 Explore regulations for transitioning to clean energy and moving away from fossil fuels for
new developments and redevelopments.
Policy H-12.2 Encourage green building practices with appropriate incentives and technical assistance.
Policy H-12.3 Seek funding from state and federal grants, utility programs, and private sector partners
to support sustainable development.
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: HOUSING 79
Potential Action Items
The following list outlines potential action items that can be further explored to guide implementation
efforts, considering the city’s priorities, available resources, and other critical factors. Any such action
that is selected will be designed to support the City’s long-term vision while ensuring compliance with
the Growth Management Act (GMA).
•Develop a “Housing Action Plan” every 5 years including assessments of housing supply relative
to vulnerable populations’ needs, in partnership with key stakeholders, such as Affordable Housing
Alliance.
•Establish local housing funds for relocation and eviction and/or foreclosure assistance, such as
counseling services to educate tenants about their rights and directing residents to resources that
may be available.
•Conduct Racially Disparate Impacts Analysis every five years to ensure residential development
helps meet Edmonds’ housing affordability targets.
•Establish a vacancy audit and reporting mechanism requiring property owners to report vacant units,
with particular attention to ensuring that MFTE units are not left unoccupied.
•Conduct a periodic review of the MFTE program to assess its effectiveness, including an analysis of
occupancy rates, demographic reach, and community feedback.
•Identify opportunities for shared parking lots that provide a net reduction in parking spaces while
still reasonably meeting parking demand. Opportunities could include a shared parking system or
parking districts.
•Develop pre-approved plans for ADU’s for faster permitting.
•Publish performance metrics and timelines for the permitting process
•Establish monitoring programs for permitting and regulatory processes to ensure that they promote
housing opportunities and avoid, to the extent possible, adding to the cost of housing
•Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of the Green Building program,
such as the number of projects incentivized, energy savings achieved, and/or reductions in
greenhouse gas emissions.
7.A.b
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: CLIMATE 95
CLIMATECLIMATE
Guiding Principle:Guiding Principle:
“Edmonds is committed to strengthen our resilience to
climate change while balancing growth and protecting
and expanding our environmental assets. It will prioritize
creating sustainable, and low-carbon Edmonds that can
enhance quality of life for residents”
CLIMATECLIMATE
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96 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
7.A.c
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: CLIMATE 97
Introduction
The Climate element provides a vision, goals, and policies that respond to new legislation that
requires a climate change element (HB 1181) as part of a comprehensive plan. Climate elements must
maximize economic, environmental, and social co-benefits and prioritize environmental justice to avoid
worsening environmental health disparities. The element must include:
•Resilience Sub-element that addresses adaptation to hazards exacerbated by climate change.
•Mitigation Sub-element that identifies goals and policies addressing greenhouse gas emissions reductions
The Climate Element addresses strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change. It includes
reducing greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable practices, enhancing energy efficiency, and
promoting renewable energy sources. The element emphasizes climate adaptation measures, such
as protecting against sea level rise, mitigating the urban heat island effect, and improving stormwater
management. It also focuses on preserving natural resources and critical areas, expanding green
infrastructure, and increasing urban tree canopy. Public education and community engagement are key
components, aiming to foster a resilient and sustainable city capable of withstanding climate impacts.
The City of Edmonds is currently developing this element and requires more detailed analysis to
ensure complete compliance.
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98 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
City of Edmonds- Regional leader in environmental stewardship
The City of Edmonds recognizes that global climate change brings significant risks to our community
as a shoreline city. At the same time, the City understands that we have a responsibility to play a
leadership role both within our own community as well as the larger Puget Sound region.
Recognizing the importance of addressing the issues surrounding the environment and climate
change, in September 2006, the City of Edmonds formally expressed support for the Kyoto Protocol
and adopted the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement by Resolution No. 1129, and joined the
International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) by Resolution No. 1130.
Scientific evidence and consensus continue to strengthen the idea that climate change is an urgent
threat to the environmental and economic health of our communities. Many cities, in this country and
abroad, already have strong local policies and programs in place to reduce global warming pollution,
but more action is needed at the local, state, and federal levels to meet the challenge. On February 16,
2005 the Kyoto Protocol, the international agreement to address climate change, became law for the
141 countries that have ratified it to date. On that day, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels launched an initiative
to advance the goals of the Kyoto Protocol through leadership and action by at least 141 American
cities.
46 ENVIRONMENT
CITY OF EDMONDS CLIMATE ACTION PLAN / FEBRUARY 2023 DRAFT
• Increasing frequency of wildfire and length of
wildfire season along the West Coast including
inland areas east of the Cascades, with
associated smoke reaching Puget Sound.
• An 89% likelihood that sea level in Edmonds will
rise 1 foot by 2100, and a 1% chance that it will
rise by 5 feet or more. In either case, sea level will
continue to rise into the next century.6
These effects have already begun. Globally, the
years 2013–2021 all rank among the 10 warmest
years on record, with 2021 being the 6th warmest
on record. Locally, 2021 included the three hottest
days on record. Downtown Edmonds saw its first
ever temperature of 100 degrees, giving a taste of
what higher future temperature extremes mean for
the region.Tides in early 2022 reached record highs
throughout Puget Sound. In the Puget Sound region
in 2018, wildfire smoke led to 24 days of poor air
quality, including nine days that were considered
either unhealthy for sensitive groups or unhealthy for
everyone.
The ways these changes will affect frontline
communities in Edmonds need to be better
understood, but we do know that some people
will have a harder time adapting than others. For
example, extreme summer heat causes heat stress,
including death. More than 80% of deaths from
heat stress are among people over 60 years of age,
and Edmonds has a high percentage of people in
this age group.7 The problems of heat stress are
compounded when air quality is poor, because
keeping windows open allows dangerous levels
of particulates. Again, older individuals are among
the most susceptible, as are young children and
others. Many homes in Edmonds do not have
air conditioning, and the cost of purchasing and
operating air conditioners can be especially hard
for people living on lower and fixed incomes.
Community solutions to these types of issues may
range from emergency cooling centers, to subsidies
for energy-efficient cooling systems, to planting trees
for shade.
6 Miller et al. 2019.
7 Kenny et al. 2010.
Figure 11: Relative Sea Level Rise (RSL)
expected for Edmonds WA.
Source: Miller et al. 2019
Figure 12: Inundation of Edmonds shoreline
with 5 feet of sea level rise at high tide.
Source: Climate Central 2022
2–5 foot rise in
sea level in
likelihood of a
Edmonds by 2100
50%38%–46%
less snowpack in the
Cascades by 2050
average annual
temperatures
increase by 4.2°F to 5.5°F
by 2100
46 ENVIRONMENT
CITY OF EDMONDS CLIMATE ACTION PLAN / FEBRUARY 2023 DRAFT
• Increasing frequency of wildfire and length of
wildfire season along the West Coast including
inland areas east of the Cascades, with
associated smoke reaching Puget Sound.
• An 89% likelihood that sea level in Edmonds will
rise 1 foot by 2100, and a 1% chance that it will
rise by 5 feet or more. In either case, sea level will
continue to rise into the next century.6
These effects have already begun. Globally, the
years 2013–2021 all rank among the 10 warmest
years on record, with 2021 being the 6th warmest
on record. Locally, 2021 included the three hottest
days on record. Downtown Edmonds saw its first
ever temperature of 100 degrees, giving a taste of
what higher future temperature extremes mean for
the region.Tides in early 2022 reached record highs
throughout Puget Sound. In the Puget Sound region
in 2018, wildfire smoke led to 24 days of poor air
quality, including nine days that were considered
either unhealthy for sensitive groups or unhealthy for
everyone.
The ways these changes will affect frontline
communities in Edmonds need to be better
understood, but we do know that some people
will have a harder time adapting than others. For
example, extreme summer heat causes heat stress,
including death. More than 80% of deaths from
heat stress are among people over 60 years of age,
and Edmonds has a high percentage of people in
this age group.7 The problems of heat stress are
compounded when air quality is poor, because
keeping windows open allows dangerous levels
of particulates. Again, older individuals are among
the most susceptible, as are young children and
others. Many homes in Edmonds do not have
air conditioning, and the cost of purchasing and
operating air conditioners can be especially hard
for people living on lower and fixed incomes.
Community solutions to these types of issues may
range from emergency cooling centers, to subsidies
for energy-efficient cooling systems, to planting trees
for shade.
6 Miller et al. 2019.
7 Kenny et al. 2010.
Figure 11: Relative Sea Level Rise (RSL)
expected for Edmonds WA.
Source: Miller et al. 2019
Figure 12: Inundation of Edmonds shoreline
with 5 feet of sea level rise at high tide.
Source: Climate Central 2022
2–5 foot rise in
sea level in
likelihood of a
Edmonds by 2100
50%38%–46%
less snowpack in the
Cascades by 2050
average annual
temperatures
increase by4.2°F to 5.5°F
by 2100
46 ENVIRONMENT
CITY OF EDMONDS CLIMATE ACTION PLAN / FEBRUARY 2023 DRAFT
• Increasing frequency of wildfire and length of
wildfire season along the West Coast including
inland areas east of the Cascades, with
associated smoke reaching Puget Sound.
• An 89% likelihood that sea level in Edmonds will
rise 1 foot by 2100, and a 1% chance that it will
rise by 5 feet or more. In either case, sea level will
continue to rise into the next century.6
These effects have already begun. Globally, the
years 2013–2021 all rank among the 10 warmest
years on record, with 2021 being the 6th warmest
on record. Locally, 2021 included the three hottest
days on record. Downtown Edmonds saw its first
ever temperature of 100 degrees, giving a taste of
what higher future temperature extremes mean for
the region.Tides in early 2022 reached record highs
throughout Puget Sound. In the Puget Sound region
in 2018, wildfire smoke led to 24 days of poor air
quality, including nine days that were considered
either unhealthy for sensitive groups or unhealthy for
everyone.
The ways these changes will affect frontline
communities in Edmonds need to be better
understood, but we do know that some people
will have a harder time adapting than others. For
example, extreme summer heat causes heat stress,
including death. More than 80% of deaths from
heat stress are among people over 60 years of age,
and Edmonds has a high percentage of people in
this age group.7 The problems of heat stress are
compounded when air quality is poor, because
keeping windows open allows dangerous levels
of particulates. Again, older individuals are among
the most susceptible, as are young children and
others. Many homes in Edmonds do not have
air conditioning, and the cost of purchasing and
operating air conditioners can be especially hard
for people living on lower and fixed incomes.
Community solutions to these types of issues may
range from emergency cooling centers, to subsidies
for energy-efficient cooling systems, to planting trees
for shade.
6 Miller et al. 2019.
7 Kenny et al. 2010.
Figure 11: Relative Sea Level Rise (RSL)
expected for Edmonds WA.
Source: Miller et al. 2019
Figure 12: Inundation of Edmonds shoreline
with 5 feet of sea level rise at high tide.
Source: Climate Central 2022
2–5 foot rise in
sea level in
likelihood of a
Edmonds by 2100
50%38%–46%
less snowpack in the
Cascades by 2050
average annual
temperatures
increase by4.2°F to 5.5°F
by 2100
The City of Edmonds has formally approved
the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
which was endorsed by the 73rd Annual U.S.
Conference of Mayors meeting, Chicago, 2005.
Under the Agreement, participating cities
committed to take three sets of actions:
• Urge the federal government and state governments
to enact policies and programs to meet or beat the
target of reducing global warming pollution levels to
7 percent below 1990 levels by 2012.
•Urge the U.S. Congress to pass bipartisan
greenhouse gas reduction legislation that 1)
includes clear timetables and emissions limits and
2) a flexible, market-based system of tradable
allowances among emitting industries
•Strive to meet or exceed Kyoto Protocol targets for
reducing global warming pollution by taking actions
in our own operations and community.
Figure 5.2 Regional and local climate
change projections. (Source:
Edmonds Climate Action Plan)
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: CLIMATE 99
Edmonds Climate Action Plan (CAP)
The Climate Action Plan (CAP) was first published
in 2010 to set goals to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions (GHG). In 2023 the CAP was
updated to redefine climate action goals to meet
targets that had not been met by the Edmonds
community. The CPA provides steps for the City,
individuals and businesses to work towards being
carbon neutral by 2050 and identifies actions
through 2035. The interconnection of equity and
climate action is integrated throughout the plan,
with Frontline communities identified as leaders
for reducing consumption, and as those facing the
biggest threats related to climate change.
•The CAP discusses the inevitability of impacts from
climate change and identifies steps to prepare and
respond to those impacts. The Comprehensive Plan
has integrated the Strategies and Actions provided
in the plan, along with the overall approach to
Climate Equity.
•CAP sets goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
(GHG). In 2023 the CAP was updated to provide
steps for the City, individuals and businesses to
work towards carbon neutrality by 2050. It identifies
actions through 2035.
•The CAP discusses impacts from climate change
and identifies steps to prepare and respond to those
impacts.
•The history of inequity in climate action provides
context for CAP recommendations, as environmental
crises disproportionately impact vulnerable
populations.
Climate Resilience: The ongoing process
of anticipating, preparing for, and
adapting to changes in climate; minimizing
negative impacts to our natural systems,
infrastructure, and communities
Mitigation: Actions taken to reduce or
eliminate the emissions of greenhouse
gases (present and future) to reduce the
rate and extent of climate change damage.
It may also be referred to as greenhouse
gas emissions GHG reduction.
Climate Equity: Recognition that the impacts
of climate change are felt by the most
vulnerable populations. A climate equity
approach not only enhances ecosystem
services but also contributes to building
resilience in these vulnerable communities,
prioritizing those areas that already lack
infrastructure to mitigate surface runoff, lack
tree canopy or shade or cooling, or other
impacts.
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100 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Climate Equity
The City of Edmonds is committed to
embedding climate equity at the forefront of
development projects and city-funded capital
projects. This means proactively addressing the
disproportionate impacts of climate change on
vulnerable populations, including low-income
communities, communities of color, and other
marginalized groups.
The CAP discusses the interconnection between
equity and climate action and the benefits of
integrating the two in strategic planning. The
history of inequity in climate action provides
context for key recommendations, highlighting
Frontline communities as key demographics to
consider.
Environmental justice, climate change, and equity
are deeply interconnected, with geographic
and socioeconomic factors creating distinct
exposures and outcomes. For instance, the
Bowl area benefits from cooler temperatures
during heatwaves due to its proximity to Puget
Sound, while communities along the Highway 99
Corridor face higher environmental health risks.
The unique contexts and frontline communities
that exist within Edmonds need to be considered
in the assessment and prioritization of climate
change resources.
Figure 5.1 Frontline Communities in Edmonds (Source:
CAP Document)
The City of Edmonds is home to frontline communities
including the elderly, BIPOC, non-English speakers, those
with no health care coverage, renters, persons below the
poverty line, those experiencing homelessness, and those
without a bachelor’s degree or higher, among others.
Goal CC-1. Provide information and opportunities for Edmonds residents to learn more
about the climate crisis and take action.
Policy CC-1.1 Partner with environmental organizations to leverage their expertise.
Policy CC-1.2 Encourage access to healthcare services in underserved areas, particularly those
disproportionately affected by climate change, to address both immediate and long-term health
risks.
Goal CC-2. Seek to alleviate environmental and health disparities on vulnerable
populations resulting from climate change
Policy CC-2.1 Encourage public health systems to anticipate and respond to emerging climate-related
health threats, including the integration of climate considerations into disease surveillance,
emergency response, and health education programs.
Policy CC-2.2 Support programs to ensure that all residents, regardless of race, social, or economic
status, have clean air, clean water, and other elements of a healthy environment.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: CLIMATE 101
Climate Resilience Sub Element
Develop, implement and monitor climate resilience strategies responsive to the impacts of climate
change and support public health and safety, the economy, public and private infrastructure, water
resources, and habitat.
Snohomish County 2020 Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP)
The City of Edmonds adopted the HMP which was developed in cooperation with other jurisdictions in
Snohomish County. HMP identifies resources, information, and strategies for reducing risk from natural
hazards. The plan guides and coordinates mitigation activities throughout Snohomish County.
Integration of Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation: This approach recognizes the
interconnectedness between climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events, sea-level rise,
and heatwaves, and existing vulnerabilities to natural hazards, such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes,
and wildfires. They both require deliberative long-term actions in the built and natural environments to
reduce harm resulting from hazards. Both frameworks center around vulnerability and risk assessment
as the fundamental analyses, making them highly comparable in structure and approach. By integrating
climate adaptation and hazard mitigation efforts, communities can:
•Recognize and address the compounding risks posed by climate change and natural hazard
•Identify opportunities to implement measures that provide multiple benefits
•Build resilience by incorporating adaptive strategies into hazard mitigation plans,
•Integrate climate projections and future risk assessments into hazard mitigation planning processes to ensure
that mitigation measures are robust and effective in the face of changing climate conditions.
•Identify opportunities to leverage funding and resources from multiple sources
Goal CC-3. Fulfill requirements of HB 1181 for addressing climate change.
Policy CC-3.1 Conduct a climate change risk assessment and impact analysis, consistent with state
guidance.
Policy CC-3.2 Broadly engage the public, including through equitable public outreach processes and
best practices for addressing climate issues.
Policy CC-3.3 Consider strategies that coordinate with with the Snohomish County Hazard Mitigation
Plan (HMP) and Shoreline Master Program. The strategies may include:
•“Extreme Heat Response Plan”, such ascreating a network of emergency cooling centers to be available
during extreme heat events.
•“Floodplain Management Plan”, such as updating development regulations for high-risk zones and
green storm infrastructure.
•“Wildfires Prevention Plan”, such as for fuel management and fire-resistant landscaping.
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102 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Goal CC-4. Seek to reduce community exposure to extreme heat, precipitation, smoke,
sea-level rise, and other climate-exacerbated events
Policy CC-4.1 Address the impacts of sea level rise by developing and implementing a comprehensive
adaptation plan that protects Edmonds’ coastal areas, infrastructure, and communities.
Policy CC-4.2 Seek funding sources, including grants, state and federal funding, and public-private
partnerships for sea level rise adaptation projects such as the Edmonds Marsh Estuary
restoration project, Willow Creek Daylighting project or others, as appropriate
Policy CC-4.3 Enhance emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts to mitigate risks and
impacts associated with extreme weather and other hazards worsened by climate change.
Policy CC-4.4The City of Edmonds should communicate with, and support climate resilience planning
efforts of, other districts and county programs, such as the Snohomish County Hazard Mitigation
Plan process, the Snohomish Health District, the Port District, the Alderwood Water Wastewater
District, the Snohomish County Public Utility District, and others.
GHG Emissions Reduction Sub-element
Edmonds Climate Action Plan’s GHG inventory and analysis aligns with Pathway 3 of the GHG
Emissions Reduction Sub-Element analysis as outlined in Section 4.3 of Climate Element Planning
Guidance published by WA State Department of Commerce. Pathway 3 leads to developing GHG
reduction goals and policies based on emissions inventory modeling results.
However, per the guidance document, Edmonds should use 2022 as their emissions baseline year and
set incremental targets that lead to achieving net zero emissions in 2050, consistent with Washington’s
statewide targets. The current CAP has 2017 as the baseline year. Commerce also recommends that
the emissions inventory be updated every five years to evaluate progress toward your GHG reduction
goals and targets.
Since 2008, the City has launched numerous initiatives aimed at creating energy-efficient and
sustainable public facilities.
•Completed an energy audit of major City buildings and facilities to identify opportunities for improved
efficiency.
•Reduced electrical usage at the library by approximately 45% after completing a capital improvement project.
•Upgraded the wastewater treatment plant with new technology that reduced electrical consumption by 19%
and fuel oil consumption by 44%, a reduction of 221 MT CO2e annually.
•Upgraded energy efficiency of City facilities, including interior lighting, insulation, and 10kW of community
solar at the Anderson Center; insulated glazing at City Hall; and high efficiency boiler and hot water tank at the
Public Safety building.
•Worked with PUD to replace 1600 streetlights with energy-efficient LED fixtures.
•Installed a 100-kilowatt project on Edmonds’ public safety building in 2022 using WA state grant
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: CLIMATE 103
Goal CC-5. Promote green building practices and embrace renewable energy sources
to reduce carbon emissions
Efficiency First bill, requires owners of
large buildings (commercial and multifamily
buildings over a size threshold) to
benchmark their building’s energy usage
and report it to the State of Washington. The
state will then publish this data online so that
owners can see how each building compares
to its peers.
Policy CC-5.1 Strengthen energy efficiency codes,
consistent with best practices.
Policy CC-5.2 Support programs and incentives
that encourage existing land use,
buildings, and infrastructure to reduce their
carbon footprint. Encourage or incentivize
new developments to use low emission
construction practices, low or zero net
lifetime energy requirements and “green”
building techniques
Policy CC-5.3 Encourage electric heat pumps and consider limiting the use of natural gas in new
commercial and residential construction
Policy CC-5.4 Partner with Puget Sound Energy and other organizations with the goals to identify and
select appropriate and cost-effective energy improvements.
Policy CC-5.5 Explore financial assistance programs such as low interest loans or grants for installation
of solar energy projects and energy efficient equipment for affordable housing projects,
including residences and community facilities.
Policy CC-5.6 Remove barriers for installing residential and small business renewable energy systems,
as well as community solar (streamline permitting, lower fees, etc.)
Goal CC-6. Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) by promoting active transportation and
mobility by all modes to achieve greenhouse gas reduction goals.
TDM strategies that are meant to reduce
congestion, ease traffic, and improve
the range of transportation options by
encouraging carpooling, biking, public
transit, or Telecommuting.
Policy CC-6.1 Prioritize multimodal investments
where needed in neighborhood centers
and hubs and the activity centers
Policy CC-6.2 Continue to promote active
transportation to reduce VMTs through:
•Encourage development in centers and hubs
to support a sustainable land use framework
•Support transit capital improvement in
partnership with Community Transit to improve
transit stops that serve centers and hubs.
Policy CC-6.3 Establish guidelines for the installation of EV charging stations in the public Right-of-
Way (ROW) while balancing the competing demands for curb space, including the needs of
pedestrians, cyclists, public transit, and other users.
Policy CC-6.4 Explore and expand practical options for transitioning more of the municipal fleet to
electric vehicles to maximize climate benefits and cost savings.
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104 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
Goal CC-7. Reduce material consumption, waste generation, and resource depletion
Policy CC-7.1 Promote zero-waste programs and educational initiatives to “reduce, re-use, and recycle”
Policy CC-7.2 Promote local farmers’ markets at activity centers (including proposed Neighborhood
Centers and Hubs) throughout the city.
Policy CC-7.3 Ensure that the City sets an example by promoting sustainable practices when
organizing events, with a focus on reducing waste in materials, food, and other resources.
Implementation Actions
Performance Measures
Goal CC-8. Develop a set of climate metrics that can be tracked, assessed and
reported on by the City on an on-going basis.
Policy CC-8.1 Create an interactive dashboard that can display tracked information and reporting from
the monitoring program.
Policy CC-8.2 Climate Action Plan (CAP) should be updated every five years to be in compliance with
HB 1181 and Commerce’s GHG Emissions Reduction sub-element requirements.
Policy CC-8.3 Set aside funding for regular updates to the inventory analyzed in CAP.
Policy CC-8.4 Plan for data collection, target setting, progress reporting and adjustments to program
needs.
Policy CC-8.5 Continue to inventory and monitor both public facility, and community greenhouse gas
emissions targets as designated in the 2023 CAP.
Goal CC-9. Consider long-range, strategic, and short-term planning and decision-
making in making progress toward community sustainability.
Policy CC-9.1 Develop benchmarks and indicators to measure progress toward sustainability goals.
They should be both understandable and obtainable so that they can be easily explained and
used.
Policy CC-9.2 Schedule planning and budgeting decision processes to form a logical and linked
progression so that each process builds on and informs related decisions.
Policy CC-9.3 Long-range, strategic, and short-term planning should acknowledge the other time
frames, decisions, and resources involved. For example, short-term budgetary and regulatory
decisions should be designed to effect strategic and long-term goals.
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: CLIMATE 105
Potential Action Items
The following list outlines potential action items that can be further explored to guide implementation
efforts, considering the city’s priorities, available resources, and other critical factors. Any such action
that is selected will be designed to support the City’s long-term vision while ensuring compliance with
the Growth Management Act (GMA).
•Allocate resources to enhance climate literacy for the community with emphasis on educating
community leaders, youth, and organizations by facilitating regular workshops and seminars on
climate
•Create a centralized resource providing information and updates
•Conduct regular climate risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities, inform housing resilience
strategies, and make relevant updates to the building codes
•Establish advisory boards such as Climate Champions with representatives from vulnerable
communities to guide program development and implementation
•Conduct thorough climate equity assessments to evaluate how proposed city funded capital projects
may affect vulnerable populations, with a focus on reducing disparities in climate resilience and
access to resources
•Conduct Health Impact Assessments (HIA) for large-scale projects to evaluate and address
potential health impacts on vulnerable populations and neighborhoods. Define threshold criteria for
determining which projects require an HIA based on factors such as project size and type, potential
health impacts, and the characteristics of the affected populations
•Expand responsibilities of the existing Climate Protection Committee to act as the Climate Policy
Advisory Team as defined in Section 2.1 of the guidance document
•Develop a climate change risk assessment and impact analysis for city government facilities and
operations
•Develop a climate risk assessment and impact analysis for the Edmonds community. Consider
the potential impacts to economic, land use, and other community patterns due to the short- and
long-term risks associated with climate change using tools specified in Section 3.1 of the guidance
document
•Undertake a Climate Equity Strategic Plan that identifies issues, and targets actions that address
climate equity. Include planning tools appropriate to both public and private participants. The
following activities should be part of the plan:
•Utilize Edmonds Equitable Engagement Framework to inform equitable public outreach processes
and best practices. Incorporate surveys and other forms of data collection to find populations needing
support. Engage with advocacy groups and elevate local needs and priorities.
•Assess the effects of climate risk on vulnerable populations, e.g. seniors, and those on fixed incomes.
•Develop recommendations for community programs responsive to findings.
•Coordinate with, and leverage state and regional goals and initiatives.
•Implement a monitoring schedule: Align the periodic assessment with scheduled updates to vulnerability
analysis for regular evaluation and timely update of strategies and actions.
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106 CITY OF EDMONDS COMPREHENSIVE PLAN | DRAFT OCTOBER 2024
•Undertake a policy review of City comprehensive, strategic, and specific plans to ensure that City
policies are appropriately targeted to prepare for and mitigate potential impacts of climate change.
•The reviews may be done to correspond with scheduled plan updates or accelerated where either a
higher priority is identified, or the next update is not specifically scheduled
•Develop and implement robust development standards that are adaptable to the impacts of climate
change, enhancing the resilience of the city’s infrastructure, buildings, and communities
•Update building codes to incorporate climate-resilient materials and construction practices that can
withstand extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and storms
•Update land use plans for climate adaptation and resilience based on the strategies identified within
climate change risk assessment and impact analysis to address sea level rise, flooding, wildfire, extreme
heat, and other hazards
•Implement urban cooling strategies such as increasing green spaces, greater tree canopy,
opportunities for water-based recreation, installing cool roofs and pavements, (Refer UDF goals in
Community Design Element)
•Develop and implement policies to enhance carbon sequestration through natural and engineered
solutions, contributing to the city’s climate goals and improving environmental health
•Conduct a detailed vulnerability assessment of coastal areas, identifying critical infrastructure,
properties, and natural habitats at risk from sea level rise
•Establish and maintain monitoring systems to track sea level changes and the effectiveness of
adaptation measures over time
•Conduct an economic impacts analysis of sea level rise and the costs and benefits of different
adaptation strategies
•Regularly update and implement the City’s Emergency Management Plan (EMP) including
identification of multimodal emergency and evacuation routes.
•Include measures to ensure resilience of local energy supply at City operated mass care facilities,
such as solar power and battery storage, in the event of electrical outages due to extreme weather or
fires
•Conduct community drills and education programs to ensure residents are informed and prepared
•Support local schools in integrating climate and sustainability education into curriculum
•Explore carbon credits on the voluntary carbon market as a funding source for energy improvement
programs/incentives for small businesses
•Pursue the use of transportation demand management (TDM) strategies as a means of reducing
traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.
•Operationalizing complete street approach
•Explore a market-based vehicle, bike and scooter share program in Edmonds.
•Promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) by expanding charging infrastructure especially within City-
owned facilities including parks
•Partner with utility companies to create favorable EV charging rates and infrastructure development
programs
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EVERYONE’S EDMONDS: CLIMATE 107
•Establish a monitoring program which should include measures that:
•Enable a comparison between measurement periods
•Measure progress toward greenhouse gas reduction goals
•Identify opportunities and obstacles for meeting greenhouse gas emission targets
•Evaluate the effectiveness to achieve these goals.
•Develop benchmarks and indicators to measure progress toward sustainability goals. They should be
both understandable and obtainable so that they can be easily explained and used
Draft Performance Metrics
Goal Performance Metric
New developments use low emission
construction practices.
Number of New Residential and Commercial Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Installed
Percent of New Residential and Commercial Development LEED-Certified or
meeting Net-Zero Carbon Emissions
Percent of Existing Residential and Commercial Area Retrofitted
Vehicle miles travelled (VMT) are reduced
Residential units developed in neighborhood centers and hubs
Percent of workforce commuting by transit
Percent of workforce commuting on foot or by bicycle
Percent of Workers Carpooling and Ridesharing
Promoting low-carbon vehicles Number of electric vehicles registered in Edmonds
Tree canopy contributes to carbon
sequestration efforts.Number of Trees Planted in Edmonds
Material consumption and waste
generation is reduced.Reduction in Solid Waste Taken to Landfill
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Planning Board Agenda Item
Meeting Date: 10/17/2024
Extended Agenda
Staff Lead: Michael Clugston
Department: Planning Division
Prepared By: Michael Clugston
Background/History
N/A
Staff Recommendation
Discuss the attached extended agenda.
Narrative
There are no changes for the meetings through November.
Attachments:
October 17 Extended Agenda
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Comprehensive Plan
Transportation D/R D/R
Land Use D/R D/R D/R
Housing D/R D/R D/R
Waterfront Vision - Preliminary Concept B
Draft Comp Plan Element Review D/R D/R
Draft Perferred Alternative Recommendation D/R
Future Land Use Map Review D/R
Discussion about Final Draft Recommendation D/R
Wrap up and issue Final Draft Recommendation D/R
Code Updates
Green Building Incentives PH D/R
Climate Legislative Package I PH D/R
Land use permit timelines (SB 5290 - end 2024)R PH
Middle Housing (HB 1110 - mid 2025) I D/R D/R PH D/R
Design standards and processes (HB 1293 - mid 2025), including
multfamily design standards I D/R D/R PH D/R
CAO Update (RCW 36.70A.130 - end 2025)I
Tree Code Update
Long Range
Capital Improvement Program/Capital Facilties Plan I PH
Tree Canopy Policy D/R
Administrative
Site specific rezone request PH
Election of Officers I
Planning & Development Annual Work Plan B
Annual Retreat (start at 6)I
Planning Board report to City Council I B
Possible Park Renaming I
Parks, Recreation & Human Services Report R B
KEY
I- Introduction & Discussion Future Items Special Meetings/Presentations
PH- Public Hearing Neighborhood Center/Hub Plans October 17 & 30, November 25, and December 16 are special meetings
D/R- Discussion/Recommendation Code Modernization Projects:
B- Briefing/Q&A 1. Unified Development Code (late 2025 - 2026)January 28, 2025 is a presentation to Council
R- Report with no briefing/presentation Comp Plan Implementation
Regular meeting cancelled Highway 99 Community Renewal Program
Planning Board Extended Agenda - October 17, 2024
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