Unincorporated Area Community News - King County Department of Local Services



*May 2025*




27 new accessible curb ramps are coming to White Center

Curb ramp project map

"Each brown dot on this map shows a place where new curb ramps will be installed."

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This spring and summer, the King County Road Services Division will replace 27 outdated curb ramps at 10 intersections in White Center. Many of the ramps that will be replaced are more than 30 years old and don't meet modern standards. Curb ramps benefit the whole community—they're used by pedestrians, cyclists, and people with strollers as well as those with disabilities.

The new ramps will be installed along the RapidRide H Line, which operates between the Burien Transit Center and Downtown Seattle. The cities of Burien [ [link removed] ] and Seattle [ [link removed] ] recently improved the curb ramps along their sections of this corridor, and now King County is doing its part to improve safety and mobility for all.

Crews will also install two new crosswalks on 15th Avenue SW, at SW 104th Street and SW 106th Street.

*Learn more: *Find exact construction dates on MyCommute [ [link removed] ] or visit the project website [ [link removed] ]




Apply now to join King County’s new Human and Civil Rights Commission

King County is forming a new Human and Civil Rights Commission to ensure fairness, equity, and justice for all residents. Applications from people with diverse backgrounds, and those from all parts of the county, are encouraged. *Applications are due on Tuesday, June 3.*

Members will receive $75 for each monthly commission meeting and reimbursement of their transportation costs. If you or others in your network are interested in learning more, join an information session at noon on May 8 (register here [ [link removed] ]). Questions? Send email to [email protected].

Learn more and apply [ [link removed] ]

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*Local Services*

New Community Service Area Civic Connectors group holds inaugural meeting

Civic Connectors

Strong communities rely on engaged people and government working together. That's why King County's Department of Local Services is trying out a new Community Service Area Civic Connectors program.

Local Services brought together more than 30 people from across unincorporated King County on March 29 for the group's first meeting at Renton Technical College.

The group's goals are to help members understand how King County government operates, to help make connections and build relationships, and to allow county staff members to engage and collaborate with members on specific topics. Learn more on the King County Local blog [ [link removed] ]



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50 Alan M. Painter Grants awarded to support community projects and programs in unincorporated King County

Model train show

Last month, King County’s Department of Local Services announced $90,000 in Alan M. Painter grants to support 50 projects and programs across unincorporated King County.

The grants support projects and investments that enhance communities, promote inclusivity, and are available to all, regardless of race, income, or language spoken. Since the program began, King County has awarded more than $1 million in grant money to community organizations to support festivals, community enhancements like signs and murals, education events, and more. Learn more on the King County Local Blog [ [link removed] ] or visit the program website [ [link removed] ].

"Photo: Ravensdale's popular annual Model Train Show received funding for 2025. This photo, courtesy of the Greater Maple Valley Unincorporated Area Council," is from the 2023 show"."



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Department of Local Services brings utility providers together to share experiences from severe weather events
Utility providers

Last November's “bomb cyclone” downed trees and knocked out power and other services in parts of King County—in some cases for weeks. In April, the Department of Local Services invited representatives from utility providers and partner agencies that serve unincorporated King County to meet and talk about communication, coordination, and recovery from the storm. The discussion also covered lessons learned and ways to collaborate and strengthen partnerships to better serve communities during major weather events.

“As the local government for unincorporated King County, the Department of Local Services plays a vital role in coordinating with partners to make sure communities know where to look for help during emergencies," said Local Services Director Leon Richardson. This event was held to prepare and strategize with partners before the next big weather event happens.

Learn more and see a list of participants on the King County Local blog [ [link removed] ]

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Subarea planners wrap up community conversations in Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River area

Community conversation

Department of Local Services planners would like to thank residents who participated in a series of community conversations to talk about what's important to them.

Community members were invited to share their input at topic-specific stations and complete interactive activities. On average, 25-30 people attended each of the five meetings.

Community input on topics like parks and open space, transportation, services and utilities, and land use and zoning will be used to develop policy directions for the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Subarea Plan.

If you missed the meetings, you can still provide input and stay updated as the plan is developed:

► Visit the community engagement website [ [link removed] ] to learn more and sign up for updates about the plan.
► Provide your input online on the Community Conversation Results web page [ [link removed] ].

Not sure if this relates to your neighborhood? Use this interactive map [ [link removed] ] to see if you live or work in the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Community Service Area.

If you have questions or would like to organize a meeting about the subarea plan, send email <[email protected]> or call 206-477-3800.

"Photo: Local Services Director Leon Richardson, left, Subarea Planner Kaelene Nobis, second from left, and David Garcia, a planner with the Road Services Division, talk with community members about transportation in the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River area."



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*Road Services*

Road paving
Smoother rides are ahead as county rolls into its 2025 road resurfacing program

When the days warm up and rains retreat, the King County Road Services Division starts working on roads that have grown bumpy and sprouted potholes. In addition to making your drive more pleasant, resurfacing extends the road's life and reduces maintenance costs. The work kicks off in May and continues through the fall, with schedules carefully planned to minimize disruptions and get the most work done before cool, wet weather returns.

Check MyCommute [ [link removed] ] for updates on specific project dates and locations. To learn more and see a list of places scheduled for resurfacing this year, visit the Road Resurfacing website [ [link removed] ].

See a pothole in your community? Call the 24/7 Road Helpline at 206-477-8100.

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*Natural Resources and Parks*

New video available in English and Spanish:
Stormwater—the silent threat

Car headlights reflected on a wet road [ [link removed] ]

After taking a tour of county stormwater facilities, local media company Latino NW Communications worked with King County and the city of Renton to produce a video describing the silent threat of polluted runoff that endangers our ecosystem and our health. The video also highlights the actions we can all take to reduce the impact of this threat in the Pacific Northwest and elsewhere.

► Watch in English (Stormwater—the Silent Threat) [ [link removed] ]
► Watch in Spanish [ [link removed] ] (Contaminación de Aguas Pluviales: La Amenaza Silenciosa) [ [link removed] ]



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Cedar Hills regional landfill
Cedar Hills Regional Landfill community meeting set for May 28

Join representatives of the King County Solid Waste Division to ask questions and learn about the latest activities at King County’s regional landfill.

*When:* Wednesday, May 28, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
*Where:* Maywood Middle School
14490 168th Avenue SE, Renton



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Reminder: “Into the Weeds” webinar is coming May 7 & 14

Hogweed

This 2-part series is *free to the public*, is worth up to *8 WSDA pesticide applicator education credits* (4 per day), and will be held *online via Zoom*.

Dive into new environmental restoration-focused invasive species management topics each day. *Find the agendas, frequently asked questions, and more on the Eventbrite pages linked below.* Questions? Contact the program at [email protected].

*Register for each day separately* (there different agendas and Zoom links for each day):

►Day 1: May 7, 8 am to 12 pm (Eventbrite) [ [link removed] ]
►Day 2: May 14, 12 to 4 pm (Eventbrite) [ [link removed] ]



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Delridge Wetland Park
Flood reduction grant applications are due May 23

The King County Flood Control District is offering at least $13 million in grant funding for projects that reduce the impact of flooding.

Steve Bleifuhs Memorial Flood Reduction Grants are for small and medium local flood reduction projects that address existing or potential flooding. Eligible applicants include homeowner associations, schools, nonprofits, tribes, cities and towns, and King County agencies.

Visit the grant website [ [link removed] ] to learn more, watch a recording of an informational session (with Spanish interpretation available), and apply.

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Photo: Delridge Wetland Park, shown here in a flooded state, is an example of a project that reduces the impacts of flooding."



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*Emergency preparedness*

Take the Wildfire Protection Survey

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Wildfire

Did you know that May is Wildfire Awareness Month? A wildfire in unincorporated King County could have major impacts. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prepare for and prevent fires, including reducing flammable material on and around your home [ [link removed] ], making an emergency plan [ [link removed] ], following local burn bans and regulations [ [link removed] ], and signing up for ALERT King County [ [link removed] ], a regional public information and notification service.

Another important thing you can do is take five minutes to complete King County’s 2025 Wildfire Protection Survey, which is available in multiple languages.

Take the survey  [ [link removed] ]

King County is developing a Community Wildfire Protection Plan [ [link removed] ] to help reduce the risk of a destructive wildfire. Your input helps ensure the plan addresses and reflects the communities’ priorities. Questions? Send email <[email protected]>

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*Metro Transit*

King County Metro seeks youth summer interns as well as board members for two committees
Metro summer interns

"Photo: Previous summer interns pose with a bus from Seattle's past"

*►Youth Transit Summer Internship Program, *July 14 - Aug 1, 2025

Applications for Metro's 2025 Youth Transit Summer Internship are now open. This is a great way for high-school age youths to learn about transit, sustainability, urban planning, climate justice, and more through workshops, field trips, and youth-led projects. Youths aged 15-18 are encouraged to apply—and especially those with a connection (for example, live, work, study, and/or play) to Skyway, Renton, and/or Tukwila. *Applications are due May 11.*

[ [link removed] ]*Location:* Downtown Renton
*Compensation:* $21/hour
Learn more and apply [ [link removed] ]

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*►Transit Advisory Commission seeks new board members*

The Transit Advisory Commission (TAC) is now recruiting for new board members in King County Council Districts 1, 3, 6, and 7*. *Applications are due May 12.*

Learn more and apply [ [link removed] ]
Email [email protected] for more information.

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*► Access Paratransit Advisory Committee seeks new board members*

The Access Paratransit Advisory Committee (APAC) is now recruiting for new board members in King County Council Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 9*. Applicants need to be at least one of the following: an Access paratransit rider, a family member or caregiver of an Access paratransit rider, or a representative of an organization that provides services or support to Access paratransit riders. *Applications are due May 12.*

Learn more and apply [ [link removed] ]
Email [email protected] for more information.

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*Find your King County Council District on the King County website [ [link removed] ].

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*Animal services*

Get information about pet licensing and more at local events

Cat and dog questions

Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) will kick off their 2025 event season by attending the following community events in May and June.

*Fairwood Night Market* – Wednesday, May 14, 4-8 pm
Northwood Middle School, 16600 148th Avenue SE, Renton

*Sammamish Valley Alliance & Community Partners Pollinator Fest* – Saturday, May 31, 10 am to 3 pm
21 Acres, 13701 NE 171st Street, Woodinville 

*PawFest* – Saturday, June 7, 10 am to 2 pm
2025 at accesso ShoWare Center, 625 W James Street, Kent

*Duvall Days* – Saturday, June 7, 8 am to 4 pm
In Duvall; look for RASKC at the King County Department of Local Services table.

Find details on these and other pet-related events on RASKC’s new online Calendar of Events [ [link removed] ].



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*Community and Human Services*

County seeks to partner with organizations to support
non-housing* community improvements

community development

If you are a nonprofit or public utility organization with a 2026 capital project in unincorporated King County, the King County Community Development Program may be able to partner with you.

The 2025 Request for Proposals for 2026 Community Development Block Grant Capital Funds will be open* in the first week of May. *Applicants will need to schedule a pre-application conference with Community Development staff members so they can learn more about your project.

Eligible projects include community facilities (like senior centers), sidewalks, sewer and water systems, park renovations, minor home repairs, and microenterprise development.

Learn more and apply [ [link removed] ]  |  send email <[email protected]>

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*Affordable housing is very important in this region, but these funds cannot be used to build new—or rehabilitate—large housing projects. They "may" be able to help with non-housing components of the project, like infrastructure or ground-floor community facilities, so please contact the program <[email protected]> to learn more.



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County offers up to $175,000 to support community planning or implementation of permanently affordable housing in Skyway-West Hill and North Highline

Affordable housing

To help address the housing affordability crisis, the King County Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS) is seeking proposals from community-based organizations to support community planning or implementation of affordable housing in Skyway-West Hill and North Highline. *Proposals are due by 2 pm on **May 13.*

DCHS will prioritize the applications of community-led and community-informed organizations that reflect the cultures and values of Skyway-West Hill and North Highline. The agency aims to support organizations that recognize and address the disparities that exist within the areas they serve.

Funded organizations would lead a year-long community planning or implementation process within their respective communities. Public feedback resulted in the following recommendations for proposals:

► Fund underrepresented communities
► Ensure community alignment with previous and current work
► Provide funding flexibility
► Define success as supporting the creation of community-informed and community-led permanently affordable housing models that are culturally relevant, sustainably built and strengthens communities

Learn more and apply [ [link removed] ]



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Reminder
Reminders

**►** *The Cemetery Pond wetland restoration final design open house* will be held on Wednesday, May 14 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in person at Hilltop Heritage Elementary School, 1075 Duvall Avenue NE in Renton (or online from 6 to 7:30 p.m. via zoom). Visit the project website [ [link removed] ], sign up to attend in person [ [link removed] ], or join the online meeting via Zoom [ [link removed] ].

**►** The King County Department of Community and Human Services has *funds to support events and activities that increase social engagement and connection for veterans, military servicemembers, and their families.* Organizations and others may apply for small short-term grants of $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000. Application closing and review dates will roll throughout the year, with a deadline of 2 p.m. on May 30 for an award that would start August 1. Learn more and apply [ [link removed] ]. (Questions? Email Katie Mahoney <[email protected]>.)

**► *Catch the Wastemobile* at a location near you! Bring your old batteries, oil‑based paint, antifreeze, pesticides, and more to the Wastemobile for safe, no‑cost disposal. Check the website for accepted items, quantity limits, and the complete 2025 schedule [ [link removed] ] — which continues through October 26.



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*Rural Area news*

King County Critical Areas Ordinance Update

On April 3,the Joint Rural Team sent a letter to the Tacoma Public Utilities Board regarding a request for water service to the proposed Segale Mine Project along the Green River Gorge in King County. The letter can be read [ [link removed] ] on the Greater Maple Valley Unincorporated Area Council's website.

—"Submitted by Peter Rimbos, Joint Rural Team Coordinator"

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Community organizations

:: Community Alliance to Reach Out and Engage

Lord of Life Lutheran Church
12819 160th Avenue SE, Renton

See blog [ [link removed] ] for the latest information and to confirm meetings.

:: Enumclaw Plateau Community Association

Third Tuesdays at 6 p.m.
Muckleshoot Library (King County Library branch)
39917 Auburn Enumclaw Road SE, Auburn

Monthly board meetings are open to the public, and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from a variety of local organizations. For more information email Nancy Merrill <[email protected]>.

:: Fall City Community Association

First Tuesdays – Hybrid meeting (virtual and in-person, 7-8:30 p.m.)
Fall City Fire Department meeting room
4301 334th Place SE, Fall City

The Fall City Community Association promotes building of community, proactively communicates on local issues, and takes action on selected issues that affect the Fall City community. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of every month, and are open to the public. For more information, visit fallcity.org [ [link removed] ] or email send email <[email protected]>. 

:: Four Creeks Unincorporated Area Council

Second Tuesdays – Virtual meeting via Zoom 

Visit the website [ [link removed] ] for the latest information and to confirm meeting dates and locations.

:: Greater Maple Valley Unincorporated Area Council

Monday, May 5, 7-9:30 p.m. – in person or via Zoom
Maple Valley Fire Station
22225 SE 231st Street (across from King County Sheriff’s Precinct #3)

Visit the website [ [link removed] ] for meeting agendas and Zoom information, which are posted a few days before each meeting.

:: Green Valley/Lake Holm Association

The Green Valley/Lake Holm Association advocates for those who live in unincorporated southeast King County. Primary goals are to maintain the community’s unique historic, agricultural, and rural character; protect the environment; and sustain quality of life in the area. They engage regularly with local government agencies to address concerns and influence policies on topics of mutual interest, such as growth and development, transportation, public safety, and flood control. Stay connected by visiting their Facebook page [ [link removed] ].

:: North Highline Unincorporated Area Council

Monthly board meetings are open to the public and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from local organizations. For more information, email Liz Giba <[email protected]>.

:: Skyway Business Collective

The Skyway Business Collective aims to drive economic growth for entrepreneurs and small business owners living or working in Skyway, and to create a supportive and inclusive space for  small businesses to grow, connect, and thrive through free professional services tailored to the business's needs. Learn more at www.skywaybusinesscollective.org [ [link removed] ]

:: Skyway Coalition

See the coalition's website [ [link removed] ].

*:*: Upper Bear Creek Community Council

For information about the council, email Patricia Gustafson <[email protected]> or visit the Facebook page [ [link removed] ] and/or website [ [link removed] ]. (Note: both the Facebook page and the website are currently being updated.)

:: Vashon Chamber of Commerce

Send email <[email protected]> or [ [link removed] ]visit the website [ [link removed] ].

:: Vashon-Maury Community Council

Meetings are open to all and are held on the third Thursday of each month, both online and in-person. Topics include affordable housing, ferries, election candidates, transportation, aviation noise, and more. The council sets up committees and passes resolutions to King County and other organizations as needed. Voting membership is free and open to residents 18 and older. To learn more, visit the website [ [link removed] ].

:: West Hill Community Association

Meetings are in person or via Zoom [ [link removed] ]
Skyway Fire District 20 Admin Building
12424 76th Avenue S, Seattle

Monthly board meetings are open to the public, and often feature guest speakers in addition to community reports and information from a variety of local organizations. For more information, send email <[email protected]> or visit the website [ [link removed] ] <[email protected]>.




"Unincorporated Area Community News" is published monthly by the King County Department of Local Services. To subscribe, visit our website [ [link removed] ]. Please direct questions or comments to Anna Clemenger, ([email protected] or 206-477-3839).

*Contact King County Local Services*

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 206-477-3800 (Relay 711)
Website: kingcounty.gov/local-services [ [link removed] ]

"Para solicitar esta información en Español, sírvase llamar al 206-477-3800
""o envíe un mensaje de correo electrónico a [email protected]"

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King County Local Services  *|*  206-477-3800  *|*  [email protected] <[email protected]>
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