City plans transformative Green Street project for waterfront access

In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the progress of the 23rd Green Street project, aimed at enhancing pedestrian connectivity between downtown and the waterfront. City Engineer Tom Yowen introduced the presentation, which highlighted the project's historical context and current developments.

The initiative traces its roots back to the mid-1980s when a downtown revitalization project identified the need for improved pedestrian access. This need was reiterated in subsequent planning documents, including the Marina District Enhancement Master Plan in 2008 and the Des Moines Comprehensive Plan in 2010. In May 2022, the city secured a $300,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce to support project planning and preliminary design.

Tyler LeBigley, the surface water manager, elaborated on the project's environmental aspects, emphasizing its role in water quality management. The Green Street project aims to incorporate water quality design into the roadway, addressing runoff from untreated surfaces that could impact local ecosystems, particularly salmon habitats. LeBigley noted that the project could potentially treat runoff from a 70-acre basin, which is crucial for maintaining the health of the marina and surrounding areas.

The meeting underscored the project's significance not only for urban development but also for environmental sustainability, as it seeks to secure additional funding for water quality improvements and salmon recovery efforts. The council's approval of a contract with KVG SoMAS to develop a 10% level study report marks a critical step forward in realizing the vision for a more connected and environmentally responsible urban landscape.