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Contributing Authors
City of Yakima Planning Division
BERK Consulting, Inc.
Artifacts Consulting, Inc.
Makers Architecture and Urban Design
Shannon and Wilson, Inc.
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Transpo Group
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INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
1.1 Purpose of this Comprehensive Plan
This Comprehensive Plan guides Yakima's physical development over the 2017-2040 period It describes
community values, directs municipal activities and services, and provides a statement of policy about
Yakima City's desires for growth and character
This 2017 Comprehensive Plan fulfils the periodic review requirements of the Washington State Growth
Management Act (GMA; RCW 36 70A) and replaces the 2006 Comprehensive Plan and associated annual
amendments.
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4 INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
1.2 Yakima's Planning Area — Past and Future
Yakima City was incorporated in 1883. About a year later, a dispute between land owners and the Northern
Pacific Railway Company led the railroad to establish a new town about 4 miles north of the original site
More than 100 buildings were moved The new town was created by the "Plat of the Town of North
Yakima" in June 1885 by the Northern Pacific Railroad Company (see Exhibit 1-1) These 136 blocks and
streets, alleys, and railroad corridors were officially incorporated in 1886 The old town was then renamed
Union Gap The Washington State Legislature officially renamed the city "Yakima" in 1918. (City of Yakima,
2016, Becker, 2016)
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Exhibit 1-1 Original Plat of the Town of North Yakima
NORTH YAKIMA V
Source City of Yakima, 1885
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INTR-2
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4 INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Yakima has grown substantially from its original 1,221 acres Today, Yakima's city limits encompass 27 16
square miles or about 17,385 acres. (Washington State Office of Financial Management, 2016) See Exhibit
1-2
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Source City of Yakima GIS 2016
The City of Yakima has been assigned an Urban Growth Area (UGA) by Yakima County consisting of
unincorporated land suited for urban development due to present urban patterns or ability to serve urban
development in the future The focus of the Comprehensive Plan and development regulations is the
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Top: Yakima Town Site 1886
Bottom Historic Downtown Yakima
INTR-3
Exhibit 1-2. Yakima Council Districts
YAKIMA 2040
C'OMPREHP.NSI\'E.
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Source City of Yakima GIS 2016
The City of Yakima has been assigned an Urban Growth Area (UGA) by Yakima County consisting of
unincorporated land suited for urban development due to present urban patterns or ability to serve urban
development in the future The focus of the Comprehensive Plan and development regulations is the
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INTR-3
Yakima incorporated city limits Yakima County is planning for the Yakima UGA in consultation with the
City of Yakima.
Exhibit 1-3 Yakima UGA and City Limits Map
YAKIMA 1044)
COMPREHENSIVE
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Yakima Urban Growth Area
and City Umltt Map
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Source (City of Yakima, 2017)
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INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Growth Management Act Goals
State goals guide the City's
comprehensive plan and development
regulations These goals address in
summary
■ Guide growth in urban areas
N Reduce sprawl
• Protect rural character
• Encourage an efficient multimodal
transportation system
• Encourage a variety of housing types
including affordable housing
■ Promote economic development
• Recognize property rights
• Ensure timely and fair permit
procedures
• Protect agricultural, forest, and
mineral lands
• Retain and enhance open space
• Support parks and recreation
• Protect the environment
• Ensure adequate public facilities and
services
• Encourage historic preservation
Foster citizen participation
INTR-4
1.3 We are Yakima
Our People
This Comprehensive Plan serves the needs of the Yakima community today and through 2040 The plan is
designed to build on community strengths and assets, and guide growth and public investments that
advance Yakima as an inclusive and prosperous place
Yakima's people are its strength. The City is ranked 11th in the state in total city population Yakima is due
to take 25% of the future county growth Yakima is a leader in the region. See population information in
the next section Our Land Use Element promotes equitable and sustainable development that brings
housing and fob opportunities These opportunities are supported by our Capital Facilities, Transportation,
and Parks Elements that promote investments in quality parks, multimodal transportation, and
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Yakima is diverse. Yakima has become more diverse, growing from
34 percent Hispanic in 2000 to 41 percent Hispanic in 2010. About � '0:�
79 percent of Yakima's growth in population between 2010 and � 5 do«
2014 was Hispanic, with overall Hispanic population making up 44
percent of the City in 2014. Based on 2010 Census blocks the figure
at right shows the percent of blocks with Hispanic population
While found in all parts of Yakima, eastern Yakima has a
concentration of Hispanic residents The Comprehensive Plan Land
Use and Historic Preservation Elements include policies that
promote the cultural needs of the whole community.
A majority of Yakima households have no children. Over half of
the City's households have single or coupled adults and no children
as of 2014 The Comprehensive Plan Land Use and Housing
Elements encourage a variety of home sizes and styles to meet the
needs of small households
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INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Yakima is a community for the young and old. The City's population is getting older on average, with more
retirees than any other community in the County Yet, the City is also seeing an increasing number of
children, particularly in east Yakima. Both seniors and children grew by 5 percent between 2000 and 2010
citywide. The Comprehensive Plan Housing Element addresses housing and services for seniors such as
aging In place, health, and mobility
The City of Yakima has the most persons with a disability in the county The City of Yakima has the most
persons with a disability in the county at 13,897, and the second highest share of the population at 15.3
percent, behind Union Gap as of 2014. This characteristic, as with others, is a reflection that Yakima is the
central city in the county and has extensive medical and human services The Housing Element includes
policies regarding universal design of housing and supportive services to meet the needs of this population,
the Transportation Element addresses multiple modes to promote the mobility of al/ abilities
Yakima residents earn lower incomes. Based on 2014 information, Yakima's median household income is
27% lower than the State median income About 22 8% of the City's population earns incomes below the
federal poverty level, higher than the state as a whole at 13 5%. New opportunities for family wage jobs
through appropriate zoning and capital Investments, and partnerships with agencies that provide
workforce training, are part of the Land Use and Economic Development Elements
Nearly half of Yakima's homeowners are cost burdened and nearly one third of renters are cost
burdened, spending more than 30% of their income on housing and earning at low and moderate incomes
as of 2012 Considering how family wagejobs can be attracted to the community, and providing a range of
housing opportunities can address some of the hurdles faced by households, see the Economic Development
and Housing Elements
Yakima residents have a lower rate of achieving higher education About 17 3 percent residents have a
bachelor's degree or higher compared to the State level at 32.3 percent or the US at 29 3 percent (ACS,
2014) Coordinating with higher education providers and determining appropriate supportive services is part
of the Economic Development and Capital Facility Plan Elements
The City's jobs are diverse The City contains 40,390 Jobs as of 2014. Top sectors include health care, retail,
agriculture, and manufacturing Jobs are concentrated in the Downtown and near US 12. Investing In
redevelopment such as the Cascade Mill Site, supporting a unique retail experience ►n Downtown,
INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Aged 65 and Older (2014)
Yakima
-37%
United States
3 7%
Washington
-32%
Selah
12 5%
Yakima County
12 1%
Union Gap
11 1%
Naches
10 4%
Harrah
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Grandview
96%
Mabton
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Sunnyside
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Zillah
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Wapato 7 S%
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Granger 37%
Median Household Income
(2011-2015 ACS)
National State City of Yakima
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INTR-6
expanding the Airport, and other activities will be important to catalyzing job opportunities. Planning for
capital facilities and infrastructure and supporting partnerships in workforce training are other Important
City activities. See the Land Use, Economic Development, Historic, and Capital Facilities Elements.
Our Future Growth
Yakima is the most populous city in the County, and the County Seat. In
2016, there were 93,410 residents in Yakima, which is a 30 percent increase
in population since 2000 at 71,845 people (OFM, 2016) Some of the
growth has been due to annexations. The compound annual growth rate
between 2000 and 2010 was 2 4 percent, which slowed to 0 4 percent
between 2010 and 2015.
The Comprehensive Plan addresses a 20 -year planning period and must
demonstrate an ability to accommodate future growth targets adopted in
the Countywide Planning Policies Based on collaborative planning with the
County, the City of Yakima is due to take 25% of the future growth The City
growth targets would mean 17,167 new persons and 8,556 fobs between
now and 2040
INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Exhibit 1-4. Population and Jobs Capacity and Targets 2016
Jobs 2012-2040 ■ 8.556
_ 28,494
Population 2015-2040 17,167
44,817
10 600 20 000 30 000 40 000 50,000
■Target ■ Capacity
The City has more than adequate capacity to meet its growth targets at source BERK Consulting 2016
almost double the allocated population and fobs Exhibit 1-4 shows the
citywide capacity for additional housing units, population, and fobs under 2016 land use designations and
zoning districts Alternative land use plans are studied in the integrated EIS and similarly show greater
capacity above growth targets (BERK Consulting 2017)
1.4 Comprehensive Plan Inclusive Public Outreach and Engagement
In May 2015, the City Council adopted a Resolution endorsing the Comprehensive Plan 2040 Horizon—
Public Participation Plan, in which the City laid out a collaborative effort to engage the public, businesses,
governmental agencies, and other interested groups The City website, public postings, community events,
public meetings, and workshops have been used to reach out to interested parties and get them involved
in the process
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In January 2016, the City began to implement the plan with a more specific set of strategies Outreach
strategies were carried out in four phases They include
• Phase 1 Building Awareness focused on creating a dedicated web page and developing outreach
materials and tools while also spreading the word on upcoming outreach activities and ways to
participate The City's dedicated website is https-//www yakimawa gov/services/
plat) ning/comprehensive-plan-update/. "We are Yakima" became the theme of the Update.
• Phase 2 Visioning focused on public comment and feedback on Yakima's vision statement A City
Council workshop, public workshop, and online survey were conducted over February and March 2016,
and results posted on the City's website In May 2016, a Planning Commission hosted public open
house and workshop addressed the Vision Statement and Land Use Plan. The key themes of visioning
are identified in Section 15 below
• Phase 3 Draft Plan has collected feedback and comments on the draft plan update The Planning
Commission has held continuous study sessions on the Land Use Plan and various Preliminary Plan
Elements between May and January 2017 A full release of the Draft Plan was available in March 2017
with a 60 -day comment period
• Phase 4 Proposed Plan involves the Planning Commission and City Council public hearings and
deliberations to help wrap up the update process. This is scheduled for the spring 2017 Plan adoption
is due by June 30, 2017
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INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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1.5 Yakima Comprehensive Plan Vision and Values
The process of developing a new vision for Yakima involved the engagement of residents and employees
throughout the City over a five-month period in the winter -spring of 2016 Open houses, public
meetings, social media, and surveys, provided opportunities for the community to comment on assets
and challenges and define what they desire for Yakima in 2040.
At the February 23, 2016 Visioning Open House, vision themes included:
■ A thriving and vibrant city.
■ Yakima as a place where tourists and visitors want to stop to wine taste, shop, eat and enjoy
downtown and the City of Yakima as a gateway to the Yakima Valley
■ A place that is framed by natural beauty and agricultural vistas.
■ A city that is family friendly with good public spaces and quality education for children
■ A place that provides many ways to be active and healthy as young or old residents, including
walking, biking, entertainment, greenways, fishing, access to healthy food, etc.
■ A city with a more diverse economy with fob opportunities in a variety of industries, including tech.
■ A downtown with more retail shops, restaurants, and the Yakima Central Plaza.
■ Streetscapes and public areas that are historic, revitalized, and attractive
■ A city that is inclusive to all types of residents with different cultures and backgrounds
INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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An online vision survey with 185 participants elicited the following key goals most important for inclusion
in the 20 -year vision statement quality of life, a prosperous community, a healthy economy, and safe
neighborhoods
The Planning Commission reviewed the outreach results and hosted a public workshop on May 25, 2016
and offered direction on the vision statement
The City of Yakima is growing larger and more diverse As Yakima progresses, the following vision will help
our community achieve the livability, prosperity, and inclusiveness that it desires
INTR-9
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A Vision for Yakima's Future
The City of Yakima is the "Heart of Central Washington," bounded by the Yakima River to the east and
rolling orchards in west valley, serving as a center of the Yakima Valley's agricultural prosperity for over
125 years, and growing into a dynamic cultural, recreational, and economic hub of the region
We celebrate our community of diverse cultures and offer
opportunities for our public to participate in community life We
have created an inclusive city where all feel welcomed and safe
We work, live, and play side by side. Yakima has created a
flourishing and diverse economy attracting and retaining
businesses with living wage fobs for all our people We preserve
the character of our historic Downtown, residential
neighborhoods, and commercial centers We encourage well-
designed infill and new development, quality public services, and
infrastructure investments Our residents have access to a high
quality education, affordable housing, an excellent transportation
system, and healthy living We enhance our natural and recreation
spaces We connect our people and neighborhoods offering safe
and reliable mobility options including walking, biking, transit, and
cars
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INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Today and in 2040 we see Yakima as a place that values
■ Yakima's people — We are inclusive to all people
We promote quality design in new housing, businesses, and public buildings, and streets to be
accessible to all.
❖ We encourage public engagement and multicultural communication in our planning process
❖ We invest in and deliver needed public services in a manner inclusive to all types of residents,
businesses, and cultures.
❖ Yakima residents have access to high-quality education, living -wage fobs, safe neighborhoods, a
healthy environment, quality parks and amenities, healthy food, and affordable housing
■ Youth and Family — Our plan is a roadmap to a high quality of life for our youth and families We seek
to have.
❖ A strong partnership with our schools
❖ Places that promote healthy and active lifestyles.
❖ Opportunities for entertainment and recreation for both young and old
❖ Quality job and housing opportunities to ensure our children can be lifelong residents of Yakima
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INTR-11
• Being A Unique Destination — Yakima is a unique destination We strive for
❖ A vibrant and revitalized historic downtown that retains long-standing businesses and attracts
new businesses and residents
❖ Maximizing tourism and retail opportunities.
❖ Providing attractive spaces and public art
• Neighborhoods — Yakima's neighborhoods are attractive places to live, shop and play, offering:
❖ A hierarchy of commercial and mixed use centers
❖ Attractive streetscapes and well-designed public and private recreation and open spaces.
❖ Historic character.
❖ Diverse housing choices for owners and renters
Preserved homes that have been rehabilitated and maintained
A spirit of friendliness where neighbors gather for celebrations, clean-up events, and block
watches
❖ A development pattern that promotes public safety and deters crime through environmental
design.
❖ Growth managed with transitions in density and building design, landscaping, and adequate
infrastructure
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INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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#� Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
• Natural Beauty — The natural beauty of the river valleys and agricultural vistas frame Yakima We
will be stewards of our natural resources by:
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❖ Protecting the ecological resources of our region.
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❖ Maintaining and expand the Yakima Greenway and other trail systems
❖ Encouraging sustainable design of development
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• A Prosperous Future — Yakima creates a thriving and vibrant community. We will encourage•
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❖ A diverse economy that sustains and attracts a variety of business sectors including agriculture,
health care, manufacturing, tourism, new energy and others
❖ Small local businesses
❖ Targeted investments in capital facilities
❖ Partnerships with higher education providers to support workforce training to attract new
employers
• Connectivity — We offer a range of transportation modes, and our community is connected. Our
,
transportation system will
❖ Maintain and create a complete street network, including new multimodal connections
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❖ Ensure efficient and balanced movement of freight and goods through the community.
❖ Improve safety throughout the system
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1.6 Using this Comprehensive Plan
The Comprehensive Plan Vision and Framework Goals are carried forward into each Plan Element with
topic -specific goals and policies. Since there are complex issues around land use, growth, public
infrastructure investments, and services, this Comprehensive Plan is divided into the following volumes
and elements.
Volume I Yakima Comprehensive
Plan—A Policy Document
1. Plan Foundation and Vision
2. Land Use'
3. Historic Preservation 3
4. Economic Development z
5. Housing'
6. Transportation'
7. Capital Facilities'
8. Utilities'
9. Parks and Recreation Z
10. Natural Environment'
11. Shoreline'
12. Energy 3
Volume II Technical Appendices
Capital Facilities Plan
Supplemental Environmental Impact
Statement (SEIS)
Volume I Comprehensive Plan contains topic -specific elements Each element summarizes key conditions
and trends that drive policy proposals Each Element includes goals – or broad aims – and policies –
principle, protocol, or proposal for action – relevant to addressing a condition or trend. Goals and policies
in turn are implemented by specific regulations and programs. The goals, policies, regulations, and
programs are designed to encourage outcomes that meet the City's Vision
INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Terms
Vision A community's best desired
future
Value A standard or judgment of what
is important for the community
Goal: A broad, general statement of
the desired long-term future state or
outcome, toward which the Plan aims
Goals indicate what ought to exist in a
community or what is desired to be
achieved in the future
Policy A principle, protocol, or
proposal for action that implements a
related goal Decision -oriented
statements that guide the legislative or
administrative body while evaluating a
new project or proposed change in
ordinance.
Regulation: A rule or directive found in
City ordinances or the municipal code
Program. Ongoing delivery of
municipal services to the public,
funded with the municipal budget, or
public investments guided by a capital
improvement strategy
Volume II Technical Appendices contains the Capital Facilities Plan. This Plan identifies levels of service and Notes
what improvements are needed to support the expected growth accommodated by the Land Use Plan and 1 Required by GMA or other state low
Element and potential revenue sources An integrated State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) Supplemental 2 Required when the state provides funding, though
Environmental Impact Statement SEIS is also art of the Technical Appendices and analyzes the funding �s not available, these elements help Yakima seek
P ( ) P PP Y grants.
environmental effects of growth alternatives and associated mitigation measures 3 0prional
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4 INTRODUCTION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
An Existing Conditions Report was prepared and is part of the Comprehensive Plan Update record,
providing a base of information to support the preparation of the Comprehensive Plan and is incorporated
by reference into the SEIS. Likewise, a Land Capacity Analysis Provides a method and results of a land
capacity analysis for the alternatives. This analysis is summarized in the Plan elements and the SEIS
1.7 Amending the Comprehensive Plan
This Comprehensive Plan will evolve and be reviewed and revised over the next 20 years due to changes
desired by the community, trends, and information GMA limits annual Comprehensive Plan amendments
to no more than once per calendar year, except for certain exemptions and emergency actions The next
scheduled update to the Plan is due on or before June 30, 2025 (RCW 36.70A.130(5)(c) Whenever the plan
is amended it is important to verify that it is "internally consistent" and that development regulations are
consistent with and implement the comprehensive plan Annexation and changes to city limits or the
unincorporated growth area may prompt future reviews of the plan
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2.1 Introduction
The Land Use Element is central to all other elements by providing for the distribution of land use meeting
Yakima's needs for housing, employment, recreation, public facilities and other land uses in development
patterns that support the City's vision for the future This element also addresses how land use and
supporting infrastructure and facilities are developed and maintained, particularly the image and character
of Downtown and Yakima's neighborhoods, the quality of its buildings, streets, and public spaces, and the
community's emphasis in honoring of the City's history The element includes policies that support a
mixture of housing options, preservation, and enhancement of neighborhoods, pedestrian -friendly design,
community gathering spaces, environmental stewardship, and healthy living
The requirement for a Land Use Element in comprehensive plans is one of the key components of the
Growth Management Act (GMA). The GMA requires cities to demonstrate the ability to accommodate 20
years of growth through sufficient buildable land that is zoned appropriately. In addition to managing
growth, the Land Use Element also sets goals and policies to shape the design and layout of cities
2.2 Conditions and Trends
Yakima is an urban city with a rural character
With a population of 93,410 (2016 OFM), the City of Yakima is the eleventh largest city in the State of
Washington. However, given this status the city still retains its rural character due to a strong agricultural
base and a vibrant natural setting
Low density residential is predominant
Low Density Residential accounts for 37% of the existing land use in Yakima, and 44% of the Future Land
Use Map Since 2010, 585 new single-family homes have been permitted totaling over $131 million in
valuation (Nov 2016) Furthermore, single family housing accounts for around 60 percent of structures —
see Housing Element.
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Land Use Goal- Growth
Management Act
Designate the proposed general
distribution and general location and
extent of the uses of land, where
appropriate, for agriculture, timber
production, housing, commerce,
industry, recreation, open spaces,
general aviation airports, public
utilities, public facilities, and other
land uses The land use element shall
include population densities, building
intensities, and estimates of future
population growth Provide for
protection of the quality and quantity
of groundwater used for public water
supplies Consider utilizing urban
planning approaches that promote
physical activity Review drainage,
flooding, and storm water run-off in
the area and nearby jurisdictions and
provide guidance for corrective actions
to mitigate or cleanse those discharges
that pollute waters of the state (RCW
36 70A 020(1))
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Yakima is an increasingly diverse city
About 79 percent of Yakima's growth in population between 2010 and 2014 was Hispanic; with overall
Hispanic population making up 44 percent of the City in 2014. This Comprehensive Plan intends to address
the cultural needs of the whole community
Yakima's Downtown revitalization is in full swing
Downtown Yakima has suffered from a high retail vacancy rate and competition from other commercial
centers with big box retail formats and strip maps inside and outside the city limits. However, retail
demand is estimated to grow by 200,000 square -feet per year in the city as a whole. Within the past ten
years, streetscape improvements combined with private investments including the Yakima Mall's
redevelopment, several new and renovated building projects and multiple tasking rooms have helped to
improve the character and liveliness of Downtown The recent Downtown Plan identifies investments in
the "heart of Downtown" and catalyst sites to capture a share of this retail growth The plan's key actions
intend to spur private investment focused around a multipurpose public plaza that provides a year-round
gathering space Further, Yakima Avenue enhancements prioritize pedestrians and emphasize intersection
improvements. Additional greenery is proposed to help humanize the street.
Yakima has development potential
Yakima has several areas that contain large tracts of vacant land including the Cascade Mill Site, Congdon
Properties, and North 16th/SR-12. These areas all offer a significant opportunity for Yakima to create new
destination development(s) and create key economic development nodes Considering new design
standards or incentivizing new development in specific industries will be important for the long-term
success of these areas.
There are also several redevelopment opportunities on smaller sites along key corridors such as North 1s'
Street, East Nob Hill Boulevard, and the West Wash ington/Ahtanum corridors around the Airport.
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Yakima is agriculturally driven
Agricultural processing, packing, and storage is a key industry in the City of Yakima Since 2010, the city
issued permits for over 4 8 million square -feet of new/renovated structures for the AG industry Farmers
from all over the Yakima Valley depend on the facilities in the City for their processing, packing and storage
needs The availability of appropriately zoned land for agricultural uses is paramount to the future growth
of this important industry
Yakima's east -west arterial corridors are critical
Yakima has largely grown westward from Downtown As a result, the city's east -west corridors have taken
on an increasing importance over the years First, they function as essential transportation connections
from residential areas to Downtown, other employment and shopping areas, and to Interstate 82 Second,
they provide a wide array of commercial services. A combination of increasing growth, access management
challenges due to the patterns or commercial development along the corridor, and rights-of-way width
limitations are posing increased traffic challenges Furthermore, since these corridors are so heavily used,
the design of these corridors are very important The lack of design standards or guidelines are visible in
the quality and character of development that has occurred along these corridors
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2.3 Challenges and Opportunities
Yakima is home to a wide variety of land uses, including low to high density residential, office and medical
facilities, restaurants, retail and service establishments, parks and recreation facilities, and large-scale
industrial and agricultural operations Yakima is a city where all residents' needs can be met There is
tremendous growth potential in Yakima that spans all sectors. Residential, Commercial, and Industrial.
With opportunities for large-scale development on vacant land and infill development throughout the city,
the future growth potential for Yakima is high.
Promoting additional types of housing to accommodate evolving population needs is a key component of
this plan As noted previously, the vast majority of residential uses are single family homes This plan
includes several policies to encourage more multi -family and non-traditional residential development
while stabilizing and enhancing older neighborhoods.
Modern redevelopment and adaptive re -use in downtown, new local breweries and wineries, and
enhanced regional sports facilities have made Yakima a year-round destination for tourists To keep up
with demand, Yakima needs to promote tourism by implementing an enhanced design character that will
attract investment and retain/attract talent.
Below are some key land use challenges and opportunities facing Yakima in the next twenty -plus years:
■ Providing a greater mix of housing sizes and types to accommodate Yakima's evolving population.
■ Enhancing design character of the City to promote tourism, attract investment and talent.
■ Stabilizing and enhancing older neighborhoods.
• Mitigating land use incompatibilities
■ Coordinating land use and transportation efforts to enhance walkability and circulation.
■ Planning for underutilized commercial and industrial lands.
Yakima Revenue Development Area (Cascade Mill)
The Yakima Revenue Development Area (YRDA) is adjacent to Interstate 82 from the US 12/North 11` Street
Interchange through the Yakima Avenue/Terrace Heights exit. The YRDA is located entirely within the city
limits and in one of the earliest plats of the City of Yakima The primary development zone is approximately
211 acres which were formerly used as the Boise Cascade Sawmill and Plywood Plant
The City supports continued development of the YRDA and on September 23, 2008 was awarded LIFT
financing through a competitive award process which considered sites state-wide State law requires that
in order for LIFT funding to be applied to the YRDA local governments must ensure that all proposed
projects are identified within their Comprehensive Plans and other supporting documents City efforts
include environmental clean-up, street and utility construction, and 1-82 freeway access
2.4 Goals & Policies
GOAL 2 1. ESTABLISH A DEVELOPMENT PATTERN CONSISTENT WITH THE COMMUNITY'S VISION.
Policies
2 1.1 Designate the general distribution, location and extent of the uses of land for housing, commerce,
recreation, open spaces, public utilities and facilities and other land uses.
2 1.2 Establish land use designations, densities and intensities as shown under Goal 2.2
2 13. Review proposed Future Land Use designation changes for consistency with Yakima Municipal
Code Ch 16 10 and the following criteria
■ Does the proposal conform to locational criteria set forth for the desired designation?
■ Is the site physically suited for the proposed designation?
■ Is the desired zone one of the implementing zones of the land use designation?
■ Is the proposal a spot zone or a similar change that may create instability with the
surrounding neighborhood?
2 14 Manage and maintain the City's Official Zoning Map to ensure continued consistency with the
Future Land Use Map (see Exhibit 2-1)
2 15 Implement land use designations through a clear regulatory process that ensures transparency,
fairness and predictability in the land development process
2 16 Adopt coordinated development regulations that facilitate Yakima's preferred land use pattern
(e g , allowed density, uses, and site provisions)
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Spot Zone
Illegal spot zoning is arbitrary and
unreasonable zoning action by
which a smaller area is singled out
of a larger area or district and
specially zoned for a use
classification totally different from
and inconsistent with the
classification of the surrounding
land, not in accordance with a
comprehensive plan
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■ Refine the land use code on an ongoing basis to make it user-friendly by employing simple
language, easy to read charts, and illustrative graphics
■ Monitor and refine the land use code as needed to facilitate the preferred land use pattern
and development character.
■ Integrate an appropriate balance of predictability and flexibility when updating development
regulations that allow ease of administration and interpretation and offer optional ways of
meeting requirements when possible
2 17. Allow new development only where adequate public services can be provided
2 18 Work with other jurisdictions and agencies, educational and other organizations, and the business
community to develop and carry out a coordinated, regional approach for meeting the various
needs of Yakima County communities, including housing, human services, economic vitality, public
safety, utilities, infrastructure, parks and recreation, transportation, and environmental
protection
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Exhibit 2-1. Future Land Use Map
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LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
YAKIMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN UPDATE
Future land Use
CatporiM
. Central Business Core Commerrial
Commercial Mixed Use
Irduatnal
Low Density Res -dent at
m Mixed kesident1w
Communily Mixed Use
■ Regroral Comrl
Yakima Council District
za
Yakima City Limits
Urban Growth Area
the Gerellifil Future i and Use Map illustrates the combination of current land ase u.rrent tonin` and future uses of each parcel or sand wrth— the City of Yabma These categories have been corsoLdated to
bettervisualize mi,ied residential neighborhood cert'— al and mlcomm—wi uses The map category is necessary to provide certainty to the commur,ty members, residents and property ovmers about
what type of land use will be located around them And where to expect plum services, and development based on the goals, policies and objectives of tha Plan 7040
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GOAL 2.2. PROVIDE A MIX OF LAND USE DESIGNATIONS CONSISTENT WITH THE COMMUNITY'S
VISION
Exhibit 2-2: Land Use Designations and Implementing zoning districts
Low Mixed Community Commercial CBD Regional
Zoning District Density Commercial Industrial
Residential Mixed -Use Mixed -Use Commercial
Residential Core
SR
R-1
R-2
R-3
B-1
B-2
HB
SCC
LCC
GC
CBD
M-1
M-2
RD
AS
The blue shaded boxes denote the Implementing zoning district for the applicable land use designation
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Policies
2.2.1. Low Density Residential:
A Purpose This designation provides for low density residential development
B Locational criteria Within established low density residential communities and in other parts
of the City that are inappropriate for more intensive urban development due to topography
or other land suitability challenges and/or the desire to create a lower intensity transitional
area between the city and the surrounding unincorporated rural pasture, foothills, and
agricultural land.
C Principal uses & density Single-family detached dwellings are the predominant dwelling
type Other dwelling types may be allowed under certain circumstances, such as accessory
dwellings and cottage housing The permitted density is up to seven net dwelling units per
acre for infill development On larger sites (over two acres), more flexibility in lot sizes and
layout are envisioned, provided overall density standards are met Permitted maximum
densities on large sites is up to seven gross dwelling units per acre. Density bonuses allowing
up to six gross dwelling units may be allowed subject to conformance with traditional
neighborhood design concepts
D. Implementing zoning districts: SR & R-1
2.2.2. Mixed Residential
A Purpose: This designation provides for areas with a mixture of housing types and densities
B Locational criteria Intended for areas now characterized by, and/or appropriate for, a
mixture of housing types with a close proximity to commercial services, transit access, and/or
parks and other public recreational amenities This designation often creates a transition
from commercial and mixed-use areas to low density residential areas
Net Dwelling Units/Acre: The
number of dwelling units
allowed per acre less the area
for right-of-way, streets, and
access easements
Gross Dwelling Units/Acre-
The number of dwelling units
allowed per acre including the
area for right-of-way, streets,
and access easements
C. Principal uses & density A mixture of single-family, duplex, and multifamily dwelling units
The permitted maximum density is up to or above 13 net dwelling units per acre, depending
on the underlying zoning district and neighborhood context For developments electing to
conform to site and building design standards promoting pedestrian -oriented development,
density is primarily limited by allowable building height, integration of required parking,
market conditions, and conformance with applicable site and building design provisions.
Specifying the maximum number of dwelling units in one building may be appropriate in
some areas to ensure compatibility and to limit building massing and density
D. Implementing zoning districts: R-2 & R-3
2.2.3. Community Mixed -Use:
A Purpose: This designation is intended to allow for a mixture of neighborhood scaled retail,
commercial service, office, and high density residential uses.
B. Locational criteria: Existing and planned future neighborhood center areas, sites along key
arterials and collector streets, and transitional areas between residential uses and downtown
or other mixed-use centers
C. Principal uses & density: A mixture of retail, commercial service, office, and high density
residential uses depending on the area's context Corridors and neighborhood centers can
accommodate a greater mixture of retail and commercial service uses while some
transitional areas near the edge of residential neighborhoods are more appropriate for a mix
of office and residential uses. The permitted maximum residential density is up to or above
13 net dwelling units per acre, depending on the underlying zoning district and neighborhood
context For developments electing to conform to site and building design standards
promoting pedestrian -oriented development, density is primarily limited by allowable
building height, integration of required parking, market conditions, and conformance with
applicable site and building design provisions. Specifying the maximum number of dwelling
units in one building may be appropriate in some areas to ensure a neighborhood -friendly
scale of development
D Implementing zoning districts B-1, B-2, SCC, HB & R-3
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
► LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2.2 4 Commercial Mixed -Use:
A. Purpose This designation promotes the greater integration of mixed uses that offer greater
development choices to property owners, increase housing options, strengthen commercial
retail areas, and promote lively pedestrian -oriented development
B Locational criteria Existing and planned commercial centers (except for the CBD) and
primary arterial corridors
C Principal uses & density A wide range of retail and general service uses plus residential uses
on upper floors on key retail -focused streets and single purpose residential on other streets.
This includes a mixture of apartments, townhouses, and assisted living facilities New
residential uses should feature densities supportive to transit use.
D Implementing zoning districts LCC, GC & AS
2.2.5. CBD Commercial Core
A Purpose This designation is intended to reinforce Yakima's downtown as the center of
commercial, civic, and cultural activities within the city Downtown is expected to
accommodate new development while reinforcing and enhancing its historic pedestrian -
friendly character and scale
B. Locational criteria: Intended for Yakima's existing Central Business District and allowing for
growth only when there is a demonstrated need for additional permitted uses in areas
physically capable of accommodating the mix of uses.
C. Principal uses & density A broad mix of commercial, retail, professional office, civic and
cultural, and multifamily residential uses. Active uses are required on the ground floor along
Yakima Avenue and key side streets Multi -story buildings and a mixture of uses are
encouraged. New residential uses must feature transit -supportive densities (at least 15 gross
dwelling units/acre)
D Implementing zoning districts CBD
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2.2.6 Regional Commercial:
A. Purpose This designation is intended to promote a medium to large scale mix of retail,
service and business, and tourism/recreational establishments and complementary multi-
family Coordinated infrastructure development and site and building design standards are
critical elements to emphasize quality development that enhances the character, identity,
and economic vitality of Yakima
B Locational criteria On high visibility sites near Interstate 82 and US Route 12
C Principal uses & density: A wide range of retail, service and business, tourism, and
recreational establishments. Multifamily and townhouses are allowed as a secondary use to
complement and support other commercial and recreational uses and promote a healthy
pedestrian friendly environment New residential uses feature densities supportive to transit
use (at least 15 gross dwelling units/acre).
D Imolementine zonine districts RD
► LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2 2 7. Industrial:
A Purpose This designation provides for manufacturing, agricultural processing/storage, and
closely related uses
B Locational criteria Existing industrial designated areas with active industrial uses or areas
featuring adequate public utilities and land physically suited to industrial activities that are
buffered from residential or other potentially incompatible uses. New industrial
development should be located in areas that take advantage of access to 1-82, Highway 12,
SR -24, and existing rail and airport facilities Additional areas may be designated, provided
they are surrounded by and characterized by industrial uses
C Principal uses & density Industrial, agricultural, research and development, repair,
construction business, warehouse, and distribution terminals that minimize external impacts
to adjacent districts, and accessory uses
D Implementing zoning districts M1, M2, AS
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'1 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
GOAL 2.3. RESIDENTIAL USES. PRESERVE AND ENHANCE THE QUALITY, CHARACTER AND
FUNCTION OF YAKIMA'S RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS
Policies
2 3 1. Provide for a wide variety of housing types within the city to meet the full range of housing needs
for Yakima's evolving population
A Accessory dwelling units (ADU) Allow for attached and detached ADU's in all residential
districts provided size, design, and other provisions are included to promote compatibility
with surrounding uses Additional considerations may include:
■ Reduce the minimum lot size for lots qualifying for an ADU
■ Allow free-standing ADU's provided lots retain usable open space and units minimize
privacy impacts to adjacent properties.
■ Provide an owner occupancy requirement (owner must live in primary home or ADU)
B Standard single family Continue to allow for detached single family dwellings in residential
districts.
C Small lot single family Allow for small lot single family development (lots smaller than 6,000
square feet) in special circumstances, including:
■ Within a master planned development on sites over two acres in size in applicable zones,
provided the development incorporates traditional neighborhood design concepts and
conformity with district density requirements
• On infill sites in R-2 and R-3 district provided they comply with traditional neighborhood
design concepts Consider reducing the lot size minimum for small lot single family in the
R-2 district to S,OOOsf and 4,OOOsf in the R-3 district.
D. Cottage housing Allow the development of cottage housing (a cluster of small homes around
a common open space) in residential zones, provided special design provisions are included
to ensure a pedestrian -oriented design, inclusion of common open space, and strict cottage
size limitations
Cottage housing is typically a cluster
of 4-12 small detached housing units
that surround a common open space.
Cottages are typically no larger than
1,200 sf size range and popular with
singles, couples, empty nesters, and
small families that desire a sense of
community and don't want to
maintain a large yard They function
as a niche housing type that would be
popular among a smaller percentage
of the population
��► LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
E Duplexes. Continue to allow duplexes in appropriate residential zones, provided density
standards are met. Consider incorporating design standards that emphasize a pedestrian -
oriented design and the inclusion of usable open space.
F. Townhouses. Encourage the development of townhouses in the R-2 and R-3 zones and
commercial/mixed-use zones as an efficient form of housing. Design standards should
emphasize pedestrian -oriented design, facade articulation, and usable open space
G. Senior and assisted housing Encourage these housing types in the R-2 and R-3 zones and
zones and commercial/mixed-use zones Design standards should emphasize pedestrian -
oriented design, fa4ade articulation, and usable open space
H. Walk up apartments and stacked flats Encourage these housing types in the R-2 and R-3
zones and commercial/mixed-use zones Design standards should emphasize pedestrian -
oriented design, fa4ade articulation, and usable open space
I Live -work units Promote opportunities to combine live and work spaces in commercial and
mixed-use zones
2 3 2 Preserve and enhance established residential neighborhoods Specifically:
A Ensure that new development is compatible in scale, style, density, and aesthetic quality to
an established neighborhood
B. Protect the character of single family neighborhoods by focusing higher intensity land uses
close to commercial and community services and transit.
C. Prioritize the upkeep and improvement of streets, sidewalks, landscaping, parks, utilities, and
community facilities in established neighborhoods
D. Maintain neighborhood upkeep through strict City code compliance
E Carefully review proposed land use designation changes to more intensive residential
designations, mixed-use, or industrial Specifically:
■ Proposals should conform to locational criteria set forth for the desired designation in the
applicable policies under Goal 2.2
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■ Is the site physically suited for the proposed designation?
■ Is the desired zone one of the implementing zones of the land use designation (per
applicable policies under Goal 2 2)7
■ Avoid spot zones or similar changes that may create instability with the surrounding
neighborhood.
F Discouraging the conversion of single-family detached structures to multi -family structures
except where they conform to density, design, and parking standards for the applicable
zoning district
G Allow home occupations that would not generate excessive traffic, create parking problems,
or degrade the livability or appearance of the neighborhood
Also see the goals and policies of the Historic Preservation element.
2.33 Create walkable residential neighborhoods with safe streets and good connections to schools,
parks, transit, and commercial services
A. Construct sidewalks along all new residential streets
B Provide streetscape standards that create safe and walkable streets within residential
developments.
C Promote small block sizes to ensure good connectivity and reduced walking distances
between residences and schools, parks, and services Specifically:
■ Low density residential. Blocks between 400- 800 feet long are appropriate
■ Mixed residential Blocks between 300-660 feet long are appropriate
■ Provide for through public through block connections for large residential blocks.
• Commercial and mixed-use designations: Configure development to provide pedestrian
connections at 300 to 660 feet intervals Configure development to provide vehicular
connections at 600 to 1,320 feet intervals Allow flexibility for private internal streets to
meet connectivity objectives
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
/► LAND USE
Q100 11 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
D Provide for usable publicly accessible parkland within walking distance (1/2 mile) of all new
residences
2 3 4 Consider new design standards for small lot single family development to gracefully integrate these
uses into existing neighborhoods in ways that maintain general neighborhood scale and character
Key concepts to consider in the design standards
■ A covered entry facing the street
• Minimize the impacts of garages and driveways on the streetscape
• Provide usable open space on all single family lots
• Consider a maximum floor area ratio to better ensure that homes are proportional to lot
sizes
■ Minimum amount of facade transparency to promote more "eyes on the street" for safety
and to create a welcoming streetscape.
2 3.5. Consider new design standards for new multifamily development to promote neighborhood
compatibility, enhance the livability of new housing, and enhance the character of residential and
mixed-use areas
Key concepts to emphasize in the design standards:
■ Emphasize pedestrian oriented building frontages
■ Emphasize fagade articulation consistent with neighborhood scale.
■ Integrate high quality durable building materials and human scaled detailing
■ Provide for usable open space for residents
■ Provide compatible site edges and sensitive service area design
■ Provide for vehicular access and storage while minimizing visual and safety impacts of
vehicles.
■ Integrate landscaping elements to soften building elevations, enhance neighborhood
compatibility, and improve the setting for residents
2.36 Allow some compatible nonresidential uses in residential zones, such as appropriately scaled
schools, churches, parks and other public/community facilities, home occupations, day care
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centers, and other uses that provide places for people to gather Maintain standards in the zoning
code for locating and designing these uses in a manner that respects the character and scale of the
neighborhood.
2 3 7 Explore the development of zoning incentives to help meet housing diversity and affordability
goals
Examples could include residential density bonuses, variations in allowed housing type, or
flexibility in regulations, if a proposal meets community goals for affordable, senior, size -limited or
other types of innovative housing. If not permitted outright or through discretionary review
processes, consider providing for these incentives through pilot programs or other innovative
measures
GOAL 2.4 DOWNTOWN. ENHANCE THE CHARACTER AND ECONOMIC VITALITY OF YAKIMA'S
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT.
Policies
2 4 1 Reestablish the historic core of downtown as the heart of the City Key concepts for the historic
core
A. Yakima Plaza Establish a central gathering space for community activities Specifically
■ Design to accommodate numerous year-round activities and provide for an 18 -hour
active, vibrant, and distinctive space
■ Strengthen and build upon existing assets, including the Capitol Theater, the Federal
Building, the existing Millennium Plaza art installment, and Yakima Avenue storefronts
■ Provide a focus for new ground floor retail and upper floor housing or offices on
surrounding infill sites
B. Chestnut Main Street Emphasize Chestnut Avenue between Front and Fourth Streets as a
destination for retail shopping and entertainment. Streetscape elements include:
■ Reduce travel lane widths to widen sidewalks and reduce pedestrian crossing distances.
■ Provide curbside parking adjacent to retail.
• Eliminate turn lane pockets and prohibit/eliminate driveways.
� M M M M 001
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
W-111-01
■ Bury power lines and emphasize/plant canopy street trees
• Provide pedestrian scale lighting, benches, shade structures, and public art
■ Incorporate landscaped curb extensions and specially paved crosswalks at intersections.
■ Feature specially paved sidewalks similar in material to the plaza and market paving.
C. Parking Implement a phased parking strategy, including:
■ Temporary retail parking lot - the parking displaced by the plaza should be replaced by
acquiring parcels south of the alley between First and Second Streets east of Chestnut
Avenue
■ Retail parking structure - as demand grows, construct a municipal parking structure
between First and Second Streets east of Chestnut Avenue Reserve ground level block
frontages for active uses and construct a separate mixed-use building along the Second
Street block frontage
■ Supplemental parking - to supplement retail customer parking, partner with the Yakima
Mall to lease space for retail, special event, and downtown employee parking Consider
access and design improvements to facilitate better utilization of the Yakima Mall parking
garage
D Public Market Construct a regional retail anchor at the western edge of Front Street
between Chestnut and Yakima Avenue Encourage a mixture of uses downtown, including
restaurants and taverns, retail, office, civic, cultural, lodging, and residential uses to support
day and evening activities for all ages
2.4.2 Land Uses - Maintain and strengthen downtown as the center for civic, retail, cultural, dining and
entertainment activity in Yakima
E. Emphasize storefronts with active uses (retail, food and drink, and entertainment) along
strategic downtown core block frontages.
B Promote new mixed-use development on vacant or underutilized parcels Upper floor
apartments, condominiums, and office uses are encouraged
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
LONG TERM STRATEGY
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
C. Prohibit new auto -oriented uses and other uses that are space intensive and facilitate
minimal pedestrian activity.
D Retain and strengthen government uses
E Promote adaptive reuse of Yakima Mall, emphasizing active ground floor uses, government,
museum or art gallery uses, and residential and office uses on upper floors.
F. Deemphasize long term surface parking.
G. Within the District Center Mixed -Use area (see Exhibit 2-3):
■ Promote retail development at key intersections.
■ Allow more flexibility in the range of allowed uses
,► LAND USE
1 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Exhibit 2-3 Fundamental Downtown Master Plan concept
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2 4 3. Community Design — craft and apply design standards for downtown. Key concepts
A Reinforce the historic storefront pattern on Yakima Avenue and key side streets This
includes storefronts built to the sidewalk edge and containing generous transparent window
area, entries facing the street, and weather protection elements (particularly on west facing
facades)
B Accommodate a variety of pedestrian -friendly building frontages on side streets
C Minimize untreated blank walls facing the street
D Promote the continued preservation and restoration/rehabilitation of historic and
contributing buildings
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E. Promote fagade massing and articulation that complements historical context.
F Integrate high quality durable building materials and human scaled detailing
G Provide compatible site edges and sensitive rooftop and service area design
H Locate and design off-street parking to minimize impacts to the retail and pedestrian
environment.
244. Streetscape & Circulation — reestablish all downtown roadway corridors as complete streets where
the needs of all travel modes (motor vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians) are provided for in a
balanced manner Key concepts to consider
A. Boulevard — Enhance Yakima Avenue between Front and Naches Streets to prioritize
pedestrian access. Key elements include a wide landscaped median, reduced travel lanes
(from four to two), integration of left turn lanes at intersections, protected bicycle lanes,
additional curbside landscaping, enhanced intersections, and provisions for a future trolley
B Parkway - Enhance other segments of Yakima Avenue as a landscaped parkway. The concept
is similar to the Boulevard, except the center turn lanes remain (no landscaped median) and
additional planting strips are provided on each side of the travel lanes
C Downtown Street Standards — Update the street design standards for all downtown streets
emphasizing the complete streets approach. The standards should include general
requirements and design elements addressing roadway sidewalk design as suggested in the
2013 Downtown Master Plan
M M M M M M
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
GOAL 2.5 ARTERIAL CORRIDORS AND OTHER MIXED-USE CENTERS. ENHANCE THE CHARACTER,
FUNCTION, AND ECONOMIC VITALITY OF YAKIMA'S ARTERIAL CORRIDORS AND MIXED-
USE CENTERS.
Policies
2 5 1. Allow for a mixture of compatible land uses along corridors and within mixed-use designated areas
This includes the integration of multi -family residential and office uses with retail and service
commercial uses Provide zoning and design standards to maintain compatibility between different
uses and zones
A Avoid placing land uses that create excessive noise, unless the noise level can be mitigated,
in locations that are close to residences or other noise -sensitive land uses
B See Policy 2.3 5 regarding the establishment of design standards for multifamily
development
C Update zoning and design provisions to promote compatibility between different uses and
zones. Examples include building setbacks, building massing, landscaping buffers, fencing,
service element location, and design provisions, and vehicular parking and access provisions
Landscape buffers are particularly important elements that can effectively mitigate impacts
of commercial uses on adjacent residential uses Commercial development adjacent to Low
Density Residential designated areas warrant the greatest compatibility design protections
D Improve standards for public and private development to reduce noise and keep light
pollution out of residential neighborhoods.
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2.5.2. Craft and adopt design standards for Yakima's most visible corridors and centers, with the highest 15"
priority being First Street, Regional Commercial designated areas, Summitview Avenue, Nob Hill
Boulevard, and select Commercial Mixed -Use centers. Key design elements
A. Provide for pedestrian -friendly block frontages (i e., entries visible from street, pedestrian
access, minimize blank walls, landscaping elements)
B Promote facade massing and articulation that adds visual interest and reduces perceived
scale of large buildings.
C Integrate high quality durable building materials and human scaled detailing.
D Emphasize landscaping elements as a mayor character defining feature of the City.
E. Provide good internal pedestrian and vehicular circulation.
F Minimize impacts of service elements, mechanical equipment, and utilities on the pedestrian
environment
G Design compatible site edges or buffers, particularly when adjacent to residential zones
H Develop special standards and guidelines for large site development that incorporate open
space and landscaping as a unifying element, provide a connected system of pathways,
integrate safe internal vehicular circulation, demonstrate sensitivity to the surrounding
context, and take advantage of special on-site and nearby features.
I Integrate opportunities for flexibility in the design standards by allowing multiple ways of
achieving standards and allowing strategic design departures provided the project meets the
design intent.
Also see Policy 2.3 5 regarding design standards specific to multifamily development.
253. Utilize strict access management standards to enhance safety and maintain the arterial traffic
functions of the corridor (see the Transportation Element for more details)
254. Prioritize streetscape improvements for the most visible corridors and centers. Possible
improvements include lighting, landscaping, sidewalk, underground utilities, bicycle, and
30"'
Sidewalk:
12' minimum
► LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
pedestrian furniture Emphasize landscaping elements as one of the character defining features of
the City
2.55 Commercial Mixed -Use area centered on W. Nob Hill Boulevard & S 64th Avenue — Promote
coordinated master planned development that integrates a mixture of uses, and the following land
use & design principles
A Includes an identifiable neighborhood center feature (i e , main street or central plaza
space)
B. Integrates a well-connected grid of streets, lanes, and internal walkways and trails. Prioritize
the development of trails that provide a framework for development to orient around and
provide functional connections between uses and amenities.
C Accommodates a variety of housing types within walking distance of neighborhood center
retail and amenities
D. Provides attractive arterial block frontages with a strong emphasis on pedestrian access,
landscaping elements, and building facades featuring transparent window areas, articulation
treatments that add visual interest and reduce the perceived scale of large buildings, high
quality durable building materials, and an integration of human scale design details
E Integrate a phasing plan that makes optimal use of initial phases
F Carefully consider the location of parking lots to minimize impacts on the streetscape
environment
G Integrate a range of on-site open spaces to serve residential uses and make the center
attractive to neighborhood residents and visitors.
H Promote the use of sustainable design techniques to enhance the environmental quality of
the area Low impact development techniques shall be emphasized to the extent
feasible and incorporated into street, trail, and lot design/layout. Opportunities for
natural system restoration should also be considered.
Coordinated development concept
example that includes a focal point, a
connected circulation system, careful
siting of parking areas, and a mix of
uses
PO LU -26
I Edge treatment and compatibility. Treatments along the edges need to consider
current and possible future conditions on adjacent sites Rather than simply walling
off edges, master plans should include design treatments that allow for better
integration of the various developments and phases.
2 5 6. Cascade Mill redevelopment — Promote coordinated development that integrates a mixture of
uses, and the following land use & design principles
A Includes an identifiable tourism oriented feature(s) (i e., greenway trail access,
brewery/winery district, year-round recreation)
B Promote and incentivize large-scale industrial park, business park, light manufacturing or
other economic development that integrates with planned retail and recreation uses
C Encourage the integration of retail that serves the Northeast Yakima Neighborhood and
regional market. Complementary office uses are encouraged to be mixed with retail uses
both vertically (on upper floors above retail) or horizontally (in separate buildings to the side
or rear of retail)
D Encourage a range of housing types (including townhouses, apartments, and senior housing)
in locations complementary to retail activities, trails, and existing Northeast Yakima
Neighborhood uses
E. Configure retail and tourism uses to create a pedestrian -oriented focal point. This could
include a "main street" concept with storefronts and a pedestrian -friendly street, a central
plaza or commons surrounded by storefronts, or other concept that integrates public
gathering space with retail/tourism uses in a memorable and character -defining built
environment
F Integrates a well-connected grid of streets, lanes, and internal walkways and trails Continue
to plan for and construct the East-West Corridor, freeway access improvements, and the
north -south oriented Cascade Mill Parkway. Prioritize the development of trails that provide
a framework for development to orient around and provide attractive connections between
uses and amenities.
M M M M M
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
cues&
= heod \
0 1 —Q�
1
j
�y► LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
G Provides attractive arterial block frontages with a strong emphasis on pedestrian access,
landscaping elements, and building facades featuring transparent window areas, articulation
treatments that add visual interest and reduce the perceived scale of large buildings, high
quality durable building materials, and an integration of human scale design details.
H. Integrate a phasing plan that makes optimal use of initial phases
Carefully consider the location of parking lots and views from 1-82 (to mitigate visual impacts
of parking lots, blank walls, and service areas and enhance the character and identity of
Yakima)
2 5.7 Consider alternative funding or redevelopment tools such as Community Renewal District(s), as
defined by Chapter 35 81 RCW, or a Port District along Yakima's key arterial corridors and the
Cascade Mill Site to aid in accomplishing the policies above
LU -28
e
4 LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
GOAL 2 6. COMMUNITY DESIGN. PROMOTE COMPATIBLE HIGH QUALITY DEVELOPMENT THAT
ENHANCES THE CHARACTER AND IDENTITY OF YAKIMA.
Policies
261. Adopt and administer user-friendly design standards and guidelines that support commercial and
multifamily development in high visibility areas or as a density bonus incentive. Evaluate the
effectiveness of adopted standards and guidelines over time and make adjustments as necessary
to achieve community design goals and policies. Emphasize the concepts referenced in Policies
2.3 1 through 2 3.7
262. Design public facilities to support and strengthen Yakima's community character and identity
A Recognize that the character of public rights-of-way play a role in determining community
character. Wherever feasible, promote complete streets and incorporate streetscape
improvements, such as way -finding signs, lighting, public art, enhanced landscaping and
street furniture, to enhance community character
B Recognize, maintain, and enhance community entry and gateway sites to enhance Yakima's
character and setting
C Design public facilities to serve as a model of architectural and site design for private
development in the city through use of quality building materials, human scale detailing,
design character, and landscape materials
D Locate and design public spaces that reflect and enhance Yakima's character and function as
welcoming formal and informal gathering spaces
RmWl" modulaf - Repeaeng coambve
ps"e s al aaervab
.0cuabwWchanpm Raosaaad for each erbaAatr;r
GOAL 2 7. RESOURCE PROTECTION & SUSTAINABLE DESIGN REINFORCE AND ENHANCE YAKIMA'S
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP.
Policies
271. Maintain and strengthen regulations to protect sensitive natural areas and pursue
strategies/actions to restore degraded natural areas.
272. Update development regulations to emphasize sustainable design in new developments, including
forms of Low Impact Development.
273. Encourage retrofits to existing development and infrastructure to reduce environmental impact.
Explore providing incentives to residents and businesses that improve building energy
performance and/or incorporate onsite renewable energy
27.4. Develop policies and prescriptive designs to encourage property owners to landscape unimproved
right-of-way with functional Low Impact Development features (e g , bio-swale or rain -garden) or
for use as private food gardens
27.5. Emphasize sustainable design/practice in public improvements and in the design/use of public
facilities and events. Key elements:
A Update public works standards, as necessary, to emphasize best practice sustainable
design/practice
b Incorporate consideration of physical health and well-being into the location and design of
public facilities.
2.7.6 Offer density bonus incentives for sustainable design features, including the integration of
A Pedestrian -oriented development
B Low -impact development techniques
C Well-connected street grid with good pedestrian connectivity between residential uses,
schools, parks, transit access, and commercial services
2 7 7 Establish resource protection and sustainability goals, monitor development to track success in
meeting those goals, and refine the implementation strategy as needed to help meet goals.
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Please see the Natural
Environment Element for
additional guidance on the natural
environment, including
LU -30
GOAL 2.8 COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE. PRESERVE AND DEVELOP INVITING AND DISTINCTIVE
GATHERING SPACES, WITH THE GREATEST EMPHASIS IN DOWNTOWN, MIXED-USE
AREAS, AND NEIGHBORHOODS.
See Policy 2.4 1 A above regarding downtown gathering space.
See the Parks & Recreation Element for related goals and policies
28 1 Adopt development regulations that provide for the integration of usable public open space in
residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
2 8 2 Pursue strategic public/private partnerships with large developments to leverage high quality
public space integrated with new development
2 8 3 Continue to encourage public participation in the design of public spaces throughout the City.
GOAL 2.9 INDUSTRIAL & MANUFACTURING AREAS MAINTAIN AND PROMOTE ACTIVE USE OF
INDUSTRIAL LANDS TO PROMOTE ECONOMIC GROWTH
Policies
29 1 Develop industrial and manufacturing lands that minimize impacts on surrounding land uses,
especially residential land uses Utilize landscape buffers (evergreen trees and shrubs) along with
open space or other design controls to mitigate noise, glare, and other impacts associated with
the uses to ensure that their location will not adversely affect the residential areas
2 9 2 Encourage infill and promote efficient utilization of vacant land within areas that are designated
for industrial uses
2 9 3 Encourage development of compact, small-scale high quality industrial parks through Industrial
Planned Development (Industrial PD)
2 9 4 Consider high quality industrial park or Industrial PD for light industrial uses to be located adjacent
to residential neighborhoods, with adequate buffers.
2 9 5 Encourage multiple business manufacturing development, providing a more stable economic base
through diversity, as opposed to a single large manufacturing business
2 9 6. Limit non -industrial uses to those that are complementary to industrial activities in terms of access
and circulation, public safety, hours of operation, and other land use activities.
Ml M M M M M
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2 9 7 Protect Industrial and manufacturing lands from encroachment by other land uses, which would
reduce the economic viability of Industrial lands.
GOAL 2 10. HEALTHY COMMUNITIES. PROMOTE LAND USE AND COMMUNITY DESIGN THAT
ENCOURAGES HEALTHY LIVING AND GOOD CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN COMPATIBLE
USES.
Pnhriac
2 101. Adopt development standards that facilitate a complementary mix of uses within mixed-use
centers that encourage walking and bicycling between uses
2 10.2. Adopt design provisions that provide for safe and attractive non -motorized connectivity between
uses and amenities, with the frequency of connections commensurate with the envisioned
intensity of land uses (e.g , housing, employment, community services, and amenities)
210.3 Adopt development standards that encourage the integration of recreational space with
multifamily and planned residential development
2 10.4 Integrate public recreational amenities accessible to all Yakima residents, workers, and visitors,
with highest priority on locations, facilities, and activities that best serve the community (also see
the Parks & Recreation Element for more details)
2.105 Increase access to health foods by encouraging the location of fresh food markets and community
food gardens in close proximity to multifamily uses and transit facilities through zoning regulations
GOAL 2.11 INSTITUTIONS. MAXIMIZE THE PUBLIC SERVICE AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF
INSTITUTIONS, WHILE MINIMIZING THE ADVERSE IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH THEIR
DEVELOPMENT GROWTH AND EXPANSION.
Policies
2.11 1 New Institutions should be placed where they are compatible with surrounding land uses, and
existing Institutions should be developed to be compatible with adjoining land uses
2.112 Institutions within established commercial and Industrial areas will be regulated under the codes
affecting those land use zones
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
— W_
1! LU -32
4 LAND USE
�! Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2 11.3 Institutions proposed for location in or adjacent to residential areas will be reviewed under the
"Institutional Overlay" zoning requirements, when adopted
2 11.4 Access to institutions shall be from the nearest arterial and should not increase traffic on local
residential streets
2 11.5 An impact analysis of how improvement to institutions will affect traffic, parking and other
qualities in surrounding areas will be prepared as part of an Institutional Overlay request
211.6 Institutions that are identified as essential public facilities should meet the policy requirements
under the section "Siting Essential Public Facilities" in this Comprehensive Plan.
2 11.7 All new development or expansion of hospital and higher educational facilities can be developed
through establishing 10 districts.
2 11.8 The establishment of an Institutional Overlay (10) district on the Zoning Map will provide specific
development standards that allow for appropriate growth and development for new institutions,
or for the expansion of existing institutions within their existing or proposed development
boundaries
2 11.9 Establish boundaries for institutions to reasonably protect established residential neighborhoods
from further encroachment by institutions and allow the institutions to plan for future growth
2 11.10 Require development and expansion of institutions to be reasonably compatible with the adjacent
residential neighborhoods, and to reasonably minimize the parking and traffic impacts on the
adjacent residential neighborhoods
2 11.11 Encourage institutions to develop master plans for their future development to ensure that future
growth is planned and coordinated specific to the needs of the adjacent residential neighborhoods.
Master plans may allow institutions to develop more intensively to reduce the amount of property
necessary for their future growth.
�y LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Public Schools
GOAL 2 12. WORK WITH SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND PRIVATE SCHOOL OFFICIALS TO PROPERLY
LOCATE SCHOOL FACILITIES AS NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION
FOR YAKIMA RESIDENTS
See the Capital Facilities Element for related goals and policies
Policies
212.1 Encourage the location of new elementary and middle schools within the residential
neighborhoods the schools will serve
212.2 Public schools shall be accessible by sidewalks and bikeways. Provide for through -block
connections, where necessary to reduce walking distance to schools
2 12.3 Locate schools on relatively flat land that is in the center or on the borders of the neighborhoods
being served Elementary schools should be located on collector streets, middle and high schools
should be located on arterial roads.
2 12 4 Locate and design schools and recreational facilities to function as an important community
resource during off -school hours
Siting Essential Public Facilities
Essential public facilities include those that are often difficult to place because no one wants them in or
near their community These include airports, State education facilities, State or regional transportation
facilities, correctional facilities, solid waste handling facilities and in-patient facilities including hospitals,
substance abuse facilities, mental health facilities and group homes
The Growth Management Act requires the Comprehensive Plan to include a process for identifying and
siting essential public facilities The GMA also states that no local comprehensive plan for any
neighborhood may forbid the placement of essential public facilities within that neighborhood It is
important to recognize that the location of these facilities may have negative impacts on surrounding land
use areas and different essential public facilities may have different needs in terms of their physical
location
LU -34
GOAL 2.13. PROVIDE ADEQUATE LOCATIONS FOR SITING ESSENTIAL PUBLIC FACILITIES.
Policies
2 13.1 All essential public facilities shall be located and developed to be compatible with adjoining land
uses to the greatest possible extent.
2 13.2 Essential public facilities shall be located in areas where they are best able to serve the individuals
they are intended to serve
2 13.3 All essential public facilities providing County -wide or Statewide services shall be identified
according to the requirements under the Yakima County -wide Planning Policies Section C 3.1
through C.3 2 (see Appendix F)
213.4 A review process for siting or the expansion of essential public facilities shall be established
according to the requirements under the Yakima County -wide Planning Policies Section C 3.3
through Section C 3 6 (see Appendix F)
2 13.5 The criteria for determining the location of essential public facilities should be coordinated and
consistent with other planning goal requirements, such as -reducing sprawl, promoting economic
development, protecting the environment, and supporting affordable housing
GOAL 2.14. SUPPORT GROWTH OF THE YAKIMA AIR TERMINAL SUBJECT TO MITIGATION OF
IMPACTS ON THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITY.
Policies
2 14.1. The City will support efforts to update the airport master plan to ensure the airport's long-term
vitality as an economic asset to the community
2 14 2. The Airport Overlay Ordinance will be amended as necessary to ensure the Yakima Air Terminal
Master Plan's success and to protect surrounding uses from airport impacts.
2 14 3. The purpose of the airport overlay is to identify compatible land uses surrounding the Yakima Air
Terminal and ensure minimized adverse impacts on the community and the airport.
M M M I' M M
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Fig
2.14 4 The Ordinance should prohibit buildings, structures, or other objects from being constructed or
altered such that those buildings, structures, or other objects do not penetrate the imaginary
surface airspace
2.14 5 The master plan must include land acquisitions and easements to ensure exclusion of non -noise -
sensitive uses
2.146 The following uses will serve as examples of uses considered compatible with Yakima Air Terminal
operations:
• Air Freight Terminal
• Air Cargo Forwarders
• Aircraft/Parts
Manufacturer
• Aircraft Repair Shops
• Aerial Survey
Companies
• Aviation Schools
• Aviation Research and
Testing
• Trucking Terminals
• Taxi/Bus Terminals
• Parking Facilities and
Auto Storage
• Car Rental Agencies
• Gas Stations
• Restaurants
• Night Clubs
• Golf Courses
• Picnic Areas
• Forests
• Landscape Nurseries
• Arboretum
• Farming
• Mining and
Excavation
• Cemeteries
• Storage Facilities
• Warehouses
• Wholesale
Distribution Center
• Shopping Centers
• Banking Services
• Office Buildings
• Factories
• Large Store Retail
Sales
LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
LU -36
4► LAND USE
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
2.14 7. The following uses will serve as examples of uses considered incompatible with Yakima Air
Terminal operations
■ Residential R
School
Development > 1 0
Church
DU/Acre
Centers
■
Hospital
■ Mobile/Manufactured
• Sludge Disposal ■
Home Parks
H
Outpatient
Surgery Centers
■ Multi -Family Large
Complexes
Nursing Home
■
Day Care
attract high
Facilities
■ Landfill
Water Reservoir
Convention
• Sewage Pond
Feed Lot
Centers
• Transfer Station •
Slaughter House '
Sports Stadiums
• Sludge Disposal ■
Waterfowl •
Other Large
Production
Assembly
Facilities that
■
Wildlife
attract high
Refuge/Sanctuary
concentrations
•
Fish Pond
of people
■
Lake/Pond
■
Wetland Pond
Sanctuary
2.5 Implementation
The primary implementation tool for the Land Use Element is the zoning code and map, and other
supporting development regulations. A key activity to accomplish prior to the next periodic update every
eight years is the establishment of design standards.
3.1 Introduction
Yakima is one of the oldest communities in Washington. Its downtown and surrounding neighborhoods
boast dozens of properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRNP), and it's home to the
Yakima Valley Museum, one of the premier history museums in the state
The purpose of this Historic Preservation Element is to help Yakima direct the historic preservation
programs of the communities. The basic elements of preservation planning are identification, registration,
and protection. Within those elements, the subtleties and quirks of the City of Yakima are considered The
historic preservation goals of this element are consistent with the recently adopted Historic Preservation
Plan, giving strength to both.
Historic Preservation - Growth Management Act
The GMA lists a Historic Preservation goal to "Identify and encourage the preservation of lands, sites, and
structures that have historical or archaeological significance " (RCW 36 70A 020(13))
3.2 Archaeological Resources
Yakima began as a Euro -American agricultural community on lands historically used by Native
Americans The Yakama Nation is most closely associated with this city, both because of the
shared name and the adjacent tribal reservation (created in 1855). The Yakamas and other
regional tribes have a long history of making seasonal camps, fishing, gathering, and hunting in
the area. Evidence of Native American presence prior to Euro -American arrival is generally
restricted to archaeological sites
Resources related to Native American history after the 1850s may also include a wide variety of
residential, industrial and agricultural resources, since Yakima's farms, factories and canneries
reportedly employed Indian workers. In addition to Native American heritage, the presence and
contributions of other ethnic groups may be observed in the community, including but not limited
to Spanish Basques, Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and Latino
3.3 Euro -American Settlement
Yakima began as a Euro -American agricultural community on lands historically used by Native
Americans. Besides farming and agriculture -related industries, the city has been most
significantly shaped by the introduction of railroads, irrigation, significant roads, and mostly
single-family residential neighborhoods Most of the city's development happened between the
late 1880s and 1930, although the post -World War II decades brought changes and
modernization
3.4 Survey and Listing
As of 2016, survey and listing efforts have produced the following
• Over 16,000 properties surveyed, though the majority of these stem from the 2011 upload
of assessor data for planning and modeling purposes, and have little significant information
o HISTORIC PRESERVATION
ii` Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
February 11 2017
■ 5, r ( w,ngent upon ProMtt Parameters Lbw R61 L] so "HIpht A&N d Hioh mI
■ Surve. i mlbgenl Vpbn PrbRrt Parameters Moder Yeh Low Rf* ❑ 6—" HWWA&.1 Vr H O R,*
6urve, Rer omrended Moderate Rah
Predictive Model of Cultural Resources Presence
(Source Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation, 2017)
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• There are 11 properties determined eligible by the Department of Archaeology
and Historic Preservation (DAHP) for listing to the NRNP, but are not currently
listed in any historic register.
• There are four properties listed only to the Yakima Register of Historic Places,
including a historic district
• There are 12 properties listed in the Yakima, and National registers of Historic
Places.
• There is one property listed in the Yakima and National registers of Historic
Places and the Washington Heritage Register, including a historic district.
• There are three properties listed to the Washington Heritage Barn Register
The following are mayor survey projects conducted in Yakima
■ Barge -Chestnut Neighborhood
• Yakima Downtown
• Yakima Fairgrounds
The preservation plan incorporates a geographic information system (GIS) -based
evaluative model of properties built in the city prior to 1980. This model was
developed to support this preservation plan and to provide a reference tool for the
city as it proceeds with additional surveys. Potentially eligible properties based on a
predictive model are shown in the map provided to the right
3.5 Needs and Opportunities
Historic Value
When communities don't understand and value their heritage, historic preservation
becomes perceived as a "frill," an annoyance, or even an obstruction to progress
Changing that perception is more difficult in rapidly growing, changing communities
o HISTORIC PRESERVATION
i= Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
i
•�7 f I �'�� � Frt �� S��J
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.� ■
r
Potentially Eligible Properties
1A potentially individually eligible to the National Register of Historic Places
• 113 potentially contributing to a National Register of Historic Places eligible
historic district
• 1C potentially eligible for local designation, but not to the National Register
• 11): potentially contributing to a local historic district
• 2A not eligible, with conditions
26 not eligible
(Source Artifacts Consulting Inc 2016)
Lepnd
am mop
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M
tool" M 4"09.
n
w
Potentially Eligible Properties
1A potentially individually eligible to the National Register of Historic Places
• 113 potentially contributing to a National Register of Historic Places eligible
historic district
• 1C potentially eligible for local designation, but not to the National Register
• 11): potentially contributing to a local historic district
• 2A not eligible, with conditions
26 not eligible
(Source Artifacts Consulting Inc 2016)
Te
Finding ways to systematically insert heritage messages in various ways, such as in conventional and social
media, special events, curriculums, tours, lectures, graphics, and children's activities, creates an informed
citizenry that values the important places and buildings that embody their community's heritage
Yakima has begun to acknowledge that its physical heritage is also a great asset As a historic preservation
ethic takes root, downtown is seeing rehabilitation momentum grow. The surrounding historic
neighborhoods are poised to see similar activity as interest in historic preservation expands
Historic preservation, as a value and a strategy, is sometimes an afterthought in the planning and
development processes of local governments Understanding its role in attracting investment and adding
to quality of life allows full engagement with agencies and departments that may not appear to have any
relationship to historic preservation Land use, housing, code enforcement, economic development,
transportation, parks and recreation, and education all influence—and are influenced by—historic
preservation
Residential Neighborhoods
Yakima's Northeast and Southeast neighborhoods retain some of the most important historic housing
stock in the city and have a rich multi -cultural population Both neighborhoods appear to contain eligible
properties and potential historic districts. New approaches that encourage rehabilitation and appropriately
designed infill housing could help stabilize the neighborhoods and position them for growth Retention
strategies should be a priority, especially if historic district designation is sought Further loss of buildings
to demolition for code enforcement purposes should be avoided if possible Concerns about gentrification
should be addressed early so that long-term residents are afforded the first opportunities for new and
rehabilitated housing
City Facilities
The City of Yakima is steward of two significant properties: The Capitol Theatre and the Yakima Valley
Trolley, which includes associated buildings and track, are important as anchors for downtown and a
growing tourism market In each case, non-profit organizations manage day-to-day operations, while the
City is responsible for capital needs Uneven funding over the years has made it difficult for both properties
to keep up with maintenance and rehabilitation needs Both continue to function with the help of
,urm •
Ali M
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
! M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M
o HISTORIC PRESERVATION
T= Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
dedicated volunteers The City and private entities continue to seek grant funding and partnership
opportunities
3.6 Goals and Policies
These Goals and Policies compliment the Yakima Historic Preservation Plan.
GOAL 3.1. PROMOTE BROAD AWARENESS AND APPRECIATION OF YAKIMA'S HERITAGE.
Policies
3 1 1 Develop a broad understanding of the city's history, including the roles and contributions of
various ethnic groups
3 12 Cultivate and appreciation of the city's unique history and how it is represented by extant historic
properties
3 13 Foster partnerships between heritage organizations.
3 14 Utilize Certified Local Government (CLG) grants, potential tax revenue sources, or other sources to
fund specific projects
GOAL 3.2. INTEGRATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION INTO YAKIMA'S PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
STRATEGIES.
Policies
32 1 Identify historic preservation as a city-wide priority
32 2 Review the city's Capital Improvements Plan annually for potential effects on historic properties
32 3 Identify historic preservation issues early in the permitting process
3.24 Utilize code enforcement activities to protect historic properties and neighborhoods
3.2 5 Encourage the mutual reinforcement of sustainability and preservation
3.2 6 Clarify and strengthen the Yakima Historic Preservation Commission role and functions
A HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Ti Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
GOAL 3 3. IDENTIFY, REGISTER, AND PROTECT HISTORIC BUILDINGS, PLACES, LANDSCAPES, AND
TREES.
Policies
3 3 1 Increase the number of Inventoried properties in Yakima
a Identify survey priorities and conduct survey and inventory work within the city limits.
b. Apply for Certified Local Government (CLG) grants to conduct survey and inventory work per
the survey recommendations for agricultural, industrial, transportation -related, ethnic, and
mid-century properties
332. Encourage designation of inventoried properties recommended as eligible for listing on the
National Register of Historic Places (NRNP) and/or the Yakima Register of Historic Places
GOAL 3.4. ENCOURAGE BUILDING REHABILITATION AND HERITAGE PROJECTS IN DOWNTOWN
YAKIMA
Pr%hrioc
3 4 1 Stimulate downtown rehabilitation activity
a. Encourage nominations to national and local historic registers to qualify for rehabilitation
incentives
b Develop design guidelines for the central business district to identify character -defining
features and guide compatible infill development and signage
c Prioritize upper floors for housing and office use, with ground floor focused on commercial
use
3 4 2 Enhance historic downtown amenities
a Include an assessment of the effects of the proposed projects on historic buildings as part of
project undertakings in downtown
b Develop long-range capital improvement plans with the Capitol Theatre (Capital Theatre
Committee) and YVTC (Yakima Valley Trolleys)
0
TTTT
s
GOAL 3 5. ENCOURAGING THE PROTECTION OF THE HISTORIC CHARACTER OF YAKIMA'S OLDER
NEIGHBORHOODS.
Policies
3.5.1 Strengthen historic neighborhoods.
a Target survey and inventory work in the northeast and southeast residential neighborhoods.
b. Encourage northeast, southeast, and Barge -Chestnut neighborhood district nominations to
national and local historic registers. CLG grants may be utilized
c Develop neighborhood -specific design guidelines identifying neighborhood character -defining
features to guide new construction and rehabilitation
3.7 Implementation
Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is implemented through the actions and investments made by the City with
the support of its residents and stakeholders Some of these actions include regulatory changes,
partnerships, coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, and capital investments. The following
implementation items aid in this process
Exhibit 3-1. Historic Preservation Element Implementation
Historic Preservation Plan Long Range Plan M Inventory and best practices
■ Rehabilitation
Fire Code Regulatory law
• Removal of debris after fire
Building Code Regulatory law Certificate of Appropriateness
Zoning Code Regulatory law Land use
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Te
State Environmental Policy Act Regulatory law Environmental review considers historic
properties
Energy Code Regulatory law Character defining features may be
exempted
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
I—!— HP -3
4.1 Introduction
This element provides information on the current state of the City's economy and the City's potential to
support job growth The inventory includes information on the City's population, employment, and
commercial land capacity based on data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Washington Office of Financial
Management, and local assessor data
4.2 Conditions and Trends
Demographics
Yakima is the most populous city in the County and is the County Seat. In 2016, there were 93,410 residents
in Yakima, which is a 29 8 percent increase in population since 2000. This reflects a notable growth trend
in Yakima as a residential community Exhibit 4-1 shows the growth between 1990 and 2015 The
compound annual growth rate between 2000 and 2010 was 2.4 percent, which slowed down to 0 4 percent
between 2010 and 2016.
Economic Development - Growth Management
Act
An economic development element establishing
local goals, policies, objectives, and provisions for
economic growth and vitality and a high quality of
life. The element shall include (a) A summary of
the local economy such as population,
employment, payroll, sectors, businesses, sales,
and other information as appropriate, (b) a
summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the
local economy defined as the commercial and
industrial sectors and supporting factors such as
land use, transportation, utilities, education,
workforce, housing, and natural/cultural
resources; and (c) an identification of policies,
programs, and projects to foster economic growth
and development and to address future needs
(RCW 36 70A.070(7))
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
w Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
The City's median age is 33 2, which is younger than the State as a whole at 37.4, though the community
is older relative to other communities in Yakima County per Exhibit 4-1 The City has 27 4 percent of its
population under 18 years of age, relatively larger than the State at 23 0 percent, whereas other
communities in the County have higher shares The female population makes up 49 8 percent of the total
City population, whereas for the State it is 50 1 percent
Most of the City's residents have achieved a high school diploma or higher at 73.2 percent, but this is lower
than for the U.S. as a whole at 86 3 percent and Washington State at 90 2 percent In terms of higher
education, about 17 3 percent of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher compared to the State level
at 32 3 percent or the U S at 29 3 percent.
Exhibit 4-1 Yakima Historical Population (1990-2016)
40 000
)0 000
Source OFM, 2016
Average household income in Yakima is about $55,294 based on the 2010-2014 ACS The City of Yakima
has higher incomes than other communities in the County See Exhibit 4-2
On a median basis, the Yakima County household income is $43,956, and the City of Yakima median
household income is slightly lower at $40,189. (ACS, 2014) This is lower than Washington State, which was
ED -2
0
4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
an estimated $60,294. About 22.8% of the City's population earns incomes below the federal poverty level,
higher than the state as a whole at 13 5% See the Housing Element for more information
Exhibit 4-2 Average Household and Family Income, Yakima County and Communities
Washington State
$79 195
United States
$74,596
Selah
$65434
Zillah
$63 466
Moxee
$61322
Yakima County
$58548
Yakima
$55,294
Naches
1 $53393
Harrah
$52 293
Sunnyside
$48,959
Tieton
$47693
Grandview
$47 372
Granger
$45 068
Union Gap
$42,049
Toppenish
$40502
Mabton
1 $40,416
Wapato
$37 724
$0 $10,000 $20,000 $30,000 $40,000 $50,000 $60,000 $70,000 $80,000 $90,000
Employment
About 54 9 percent of the City's population is in the labor force and employed, and a reported 6.9 percent
is in the labor force is not employed About 38 percent are not in the labor force The share of the
population in the labor force is less than the State percentage (58.2% in labor force) and slightly less than
Yakima County (55.7% in labor force) (Yakima County, 2016)
f � A
•. ��rl
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Currently, the City has 40,390 fobs (US Census Bureau, 2014) Top sectors include health care, retail,
agriculture, and manufacturing as shown in Exhibit 4-3
Exhibit 4-3. Counts and Density of Primary Jobs in Yakima
Source (US Census Bureau, 2014)
Jobs are concentrated in the Downtown and near US 12, with greater Jobs in eastern and central Yakima
than western Yakima which contains largely residential development and vacant land See Exhibit 4-4
NAICS Industry Sector
2014 Count
Share
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
3,817
95%
Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction
24
01%
Utilities
180
04%
Construction
993
25%
Manufacturing
3,339
83%
Wholesale Trade
1,711
42%
Retail Trade
5,009
12.4%
Transportation and Warehousing
621
15%
Information
651
16%
Finance and Insurance
938
23%
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
435
1 1%
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
1,281
32%
Management of Companies and Enterprises
145
04%
Administration & Support, Waste Management and Remediation
951
24%
Educational Services
3,041
75%
Health Care and Social Assistance
9,539
23.6%
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
652
16%
Accommodation and Food Services
2,893
72%
Other Services (excluding Public Administration)
1,031
26%
Public Administration
3,139
78%
Total
40,390
Source (US Census Bureau, 2014)
Jobs are concentrated in the Downtown and near US 12, with greater Jobs in eastern and central Yakima
than western Yakima which contains largely residential development and vacant land See Exhibit 4-4
Exhibit 4-4. Jobs Density in Yakima in 2014 (All Workers)
F
1
t
Map Legend
Jut, lh•uwity ;9ut,w/Sy. Mile]
L-551
.
552 - 2.141
• 2.1924.924
• 4.92.5 . K,761
• A.7ri2 1:1.671
Source US Census Bureau, 2014
Jul. Com it HI,-, k
1.4
:1- 50
. 51 - 253
• 2.5.1 - 79+
• 71% - 1 949
Selection Arms
A, Amlysis Selo t.uw
4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
ED -5
X
Max"Um-
a.
ED -5
Top private employers in the County include mayor operations inside the Yakima city limits such as the
Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital and Yakima Regional Medical Center See Exhibit 4-5.
Exhibit 4-5. Top Private Employers in Yakima County
�y111. 4 1 ,16
i/11VI/1Y�47
Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital
2,200
Walmart -Yakima/Sunnyside/Grandview
1,700
Zirkle Fruit
1,500+
Washington Fruit & Produce
1,500+
Borton Fruit
1,212
Monson Fruit
1,023
Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic
1,006
Yakima Regional Medical Center
985
A.B Foods
900
Yakama Nation Legends Casino
644
Source New Vision Yakima County Development Association 2016
Employment Capacity
The City of Yakima has conducted a land capacity analysis illustrating that there is greater capacity for
employment under the current zoning than needed to accommodate the City's allocated employment
through 2040 Similarly, the City has ample capacity for residential growth and associated population with
the current zoning Exhibit 4-6 shows overall population and fob capacity Exhibit 4-7 shows capacity by
district
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
ED -6
Exhibit 4-6. Population and Jobs Capacity
Jobs 2012-20408,556
28,494
Population 2015-2040 17,167
A
Till
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
• Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
44,817
- 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35 000 40,000 45,000 50,000
■ Target ■ Capacity
Source City of Yakima, BERK Consulting 2017
Exhibit 4-7. Capacity by Council District
NEW HOMES
Source. City of Yakima, BERK Consulting 2017
4
2%
NEW JOBS
6
0%
to ED -7 Mj
Capacity Vacant /Agriculture /
Underutilized
District
New Homes
New Jobs
New People
1
410
9,578
1,119
2
1,450
3,368
3,957
3
1,016
3,384
2,775
4
410
2,039
1,118
5
1,360
2,406
3,713
6
2,485
72
6,785
7
9,282
7,634
25,339
Citywide
1 16,413
28,481
44,806
to ED -7 Mj
Market Position for Commercial and Industrial Development
The City of Yakima's is the largest community in Yakima County and the center of an agricultural economy
Its 300 days of sunshine per year make it an attractive place to live and work. Background data from the
2017-2020 Economic Development Strategic Plan examined several criteria to assess Yakima's
competitiveness
Yakima received good ratings in Utilities and Infrastructure, Permitting and Regulatory Environment, and
Human Capital, but ranked low in many categories such as Real Estate, Transportation, Entrepreneurship
and Innovation, Sustainability, Incentives, Convention Center, and Business Climate. The Goals and Policies
in Section 4.4 are intended to continue ongoing positive efforts and stimulate further engagement in those
areas that need improvement.
4.3 Challenges and Opportunities
Key Investments and Projects
• Sites for Business. Businesses need a place to locate Yakima has finite land available within city
boundaries By identifying and readying sites for business development, we will preserve land for
economic opportunities, increase the tax base, and improve our image as a vibrant place for business
with desirable curb appeal
Mill Site Redevelopment. The location of the mill site, at Yakima's northeast boundary, has potential
to improve the first impression of the community and will have excellent transportation access Yakima
has finite land for fob creation. There is a risk that development at the site could only move existing
businesses from other parts of the community without net economic gain if not appropriately planned
A thoughtful and strategic development plan is essential for long-term and sustained quality economic
development that would increase Yakima's image and grow the tax base
■ Public Authority District. A public authority district can be an effective resource for supporting other
prioritized strategic initiatives, such as operation of an incubator and/or business development at the
Mill Site and Airport A variety of benefits can be structured with the mechanism of a public authority
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
1! ED -8
district, such as property ownership and development, incentives, investment in infrastructure, and
funding of dedicated staff for specific development projects
■ Incentives. Communities that provide incentives demonstrate they are business friendly, and if used
wisely, can be effective tools for inviting new businesses Incentives are valuable to expanding local
businesses so that they choose to expand locally instead of expanding/relocating elsewhere
• Educational Alignment. Access to talent is the leading factor for business growth, productivity, and
ultimately viability. Competitive communities stay on top of matching needs of local employers with
skills to advance quality business services and production With the impending retirement of many
Baby Boomers, it is important to fill these openings. By enhancing skills, workers have access to greater
opportunities to increase earnings. Yakima benefits from local training of residents so that youth stay
in the community because they are skilled for living -wage fobs.
• Air Service and Airport Business Growth. To competitively meet the travel needs of business and
residents, Yakima needs to continue efforts to expand air services — both frequency and additional
destinations. Quality air service is critical to growing both the economy and local tourism. An active
airport generates funds for airport operations, maintenance, and capital expenditures.
Yakima has limited sites to house traded -sector businesses providing quality fobs Sites near the
Yakima Airport — some with direct access to runways — are even rarer, yet they offer a compelling
benefit to aircraft and aerospace manufacturers.
■ Incubator. An incubator is a resource for entrepreneurs that helps to lower the barrier to entry for
business start-ups Locally grown businesses are more likely to stay and grow where they originate,
thus providing an avenue for job creation that compliments local business expansion and new business
attraction efforts An incubator could also become a destination asset in Yakima, depending on the
goods and services produced by target occupants
■ Recruit Cluster Industries. Traded -sector businesses produce and sell products and services outside of
the area, thus bringing wealth to Yakima and hiring people to living -wage, quality obs. With a focused
effort to target industries that diversify our local economy, we will achieve more stability through
economic cycles
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
1!! ED -9
Downtown Revitalization
A retail market study was prepared for the Downtown area in 2013 The study documented well known
conditions of downtown retail vacancy, and dominance of other commercial centers with big box retail
formats and strip maps inside the city limits and the Yakima Valley Mall in Union Gap
While there have been downward trends, there are also unique opportunities, including Downtown
Yakima's ability to create a distinctive retail experience with its historic character, agn- and viticulture
entrepreneurship, local food and beverage and community facilities, and events programming.
Retail demand is estimated to grow by 200,000 square feet per year in the city as a whole The market
analysis recommended policy, zoning, marketing and direct engagement of stakeholders The policy,
zoning and design guideline amendments were intended to reinforce a distinct and unique retail identity.
Revitalization would focus on the "heart of Downtown" and catalyst sites
A key component of the downtown revitalization efforts is the Yakima Plaza. Designed to be a gathering
place for locals and tourists, the plaza will be a crucial centerpiece of investment in our downtown The
Plaza is key to creating a downtown that is emblematic of the opportunities in our beautiful city.
Community Pride
Community Pride initiatives complement economic development marketing and talent
attraction/retention to draw people to live and work in Yakima. With a positive perception and experience
in Yakima, people who come to visit or live here will choose to stay If residents are vested, they will
promote and invest in the community
A primary goal of the 2017-2020 Economic Development Strategic Plan is to establish a Latino Cultural
Center to honor the diverse cultural assets of the Yakima community This inclusive venue could serve as
a destination draw for visitors and symbol of pride for residents
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
i ""IS
ED -10
4
U s;
4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
4.4 Goals and Policies
GOAL 4.1. DEVELOP A DIVERSE PORTFOLIO OF SITES READY FOR BUSINESS THAT PROVIDE YAKIMA
A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE BECAUSE INFRASTRUCTURE IS IN PLACE, ANY
CONTAMINATION IS ADDRESSED, AND OWNERS ARE WILLING TO SELL/LEASE.
Policies:
4 1 1. Inventory available sites on the market and potentially on the market
4 12. Develop a system for maintaining complete information (zoning, infrastructure, planned and
funded infrastructure, incentive zones, pricing, terms, etc.) online.
413. Pursue certified sites designation for potential properties.
GOAL 4.2. SUPPORT THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE FORMER CASCADE LUMBER COMPANY MILL
SITE TO ACCOMMODATE QUALITY JOBS AND INCREASE YAKIMA'S TAX BASE, AS WELL
AS PRESENT A QUALITY DEVELOPMENT AT YAKIMA'S HIGHLY -VISIBLE NORTHERN
"FRONT DOOR."
Policies:
42 1. Document infrastructure and transportation access improvements at the Cascade Mill Site
4 2 2. Define desired site concept and determine who will manage the master plan and development.
423. Understand zoning and covenants and environmental clean-up plan(s)
GOAL 4.3. EXPLORE THE POTENTIAL OF A PUBLIC AUTHORITY DISTRICT AS A TOOL TO SUPPORT
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND ENHANCE YAKIMA'S COMPETITIVENESS TO ATTRACT
AND RETAIN BUSINESSES
Policies:
431. Research the process to establish a port district or other public authority district
rte__ l" r`it
i =�
wAr ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
432. Conduct an evaluation of pros and cons for establishment of a district and organize a campaign
around the benefits.
GOAL 4 4. RESPONSIBLY OFFER AND PROMOTE A DIVERSE PORTFOLIO OF COMPETITIVE
INCENTIVES THAT INFLUENCE BUSINESS INVESTMENT IN FAVOR OF A YAKIMA
LOCATION.
Policies
4 4 1 Gather information on available incentives for Yakima businesses
4 4 2 Research gaps in the process where Yakima falls behinds or costs more than competitors
443. Promote existing City permitting services as an incentive and examine ways to further streamline
the permitting process
444 Develop and adopt an incentive policy to define criteria for projects that align with Yakima's
Economic Development goals
GOAL 4.5 ESTABLISH A HIGH QUALITY, TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE INCUBATOR TO BOOST EFFECTIVE
BUSINESS START-UPS IN YAKIMA
pnlirip-
4 5 1 Create a business plan for an incubator model that includes management and technical assistance
responsibilities
4.52 Pursue grants that align with the business plan/incubator model
GOAL 4.6 LOCATE A COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY CHAIN OF AIRCRAFT MANUFACTURERS AND
SUPPLIERS TO PRIORITIZED SITES ADJACENT TO THE YAKIMA AIRPORT.
Policies
46.1 Develop outreach plan to meet with target businesses
46.2 Leverage WA Department of Commerce marketing to aircraft and aerospace manufacturers,
including relevant industry conferences and trade shows
P!0_ ED -12
r r r r r r rr r r r r rr r� r r r r r �■
a
rig
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
4.63 Sustain and increase commercial airline service at the Yakima Airport (YKM).
GOAL 4.7 LOCATE TRADED -SECTOR BUSINESSES THAT COMPLIMENT YET DIVERSIFY YAKIMA'S
ECONOMIC BASE.
Policies
4.71 Define requirements and priority location factors of target industries and develop outreach plan
to meet with businesses of target industries
GOAL 4.8 SUPPORT PROGRAMS, PROJECTS, AND DEVELOPMENT EFFORTS THAT ENHANCE THE JOB
MARKET AND PROMOTE COMMUNITY PRIDE.
Policies:
4.81 Support educational resources that are aligned to meet the comprehensive current and future
needs of employers in Yakima
4.82 Support expansion of the Convention Center to host targeted groups with world-class amenities.
4.83 Support the establishment of a Latino cultural center to honor the diverse cultural assets of the
Yakima community.
4.84 Enhance local pride in community and foster positive "buzz" about Yakima
4.5 Implementation
Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is implemented through the actions and investments made by the City with
the support of its residents and stakeholders Some of these actions include regulatory changes,
partnerships, coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, and capital investments The following
implementation items aid in this process
I!t ED -13
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
w Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Exhibit 4-8 Economic Development Element Implementation
Economic Development Strategic
Plan 2017-2020
2013 Downtown Master Plan
Development Review
Transportation Plan
Zoning Code
State Environmental Policy Act
Implementation Plan
Implementation Plan
Regulatory Law/Permit Process
Long Range Plan
Regulatory Law
Regulatory Law
A plan to spur and sustain the
growth of Yakima's Economy
Actions and projects specific to
downtown redevelopment
Streamlined permit process that
encourages early applicant/staff
interaction
Identify key planned corridors and
truck routes
■ Property zoning and use
compatibility
■ Environmental review that
establishes different thresholds
based on development
ED -14
5.1 Introduction
The future demand for housing is a crucial element of this plan. There is need to accommodate current
and future population demands in a variety of housing types and affordability levels This Housing Element
contains the goals, policies, and implementation actions that will help Yakima achieve high quality,
affordable, and equitable housing for today's generations forward
Yakima acknowledges that the marketplace will generally provide adequate housing to meet demand for
those in the upper economic brackets, but that some combination of appropriately zoned land, regulatory
incentives, housing funding and rehabilitation programs, and innovative planning techniques will be
necessary to meet the needs of middle and lower income residents Understanding this challenge, and the
current housing trends, helps the City plan for the future
Housing Goal- Growth Management Act
Encourage the availability of affordable
housing to all economic segments of the
population of this state, promote a variety
of residential densities and housing types,
and encourage preservation of existing
housing stock (RCW 36 70A 020 (4))
5.2 Conditions and Trends
Most of Yakima's Housing Stock is Single Family Homes
Around 60 percent of structures in 2015 were single family detached units, and another 4 percent of
structures were single-family attached units Only 7 4 percent of structures had 20 or more units (ACS,
2015) Yakima's housing structures are predominantly one to four bedroom units, with a combined 78 3
percent of units falling into these categories
Between 2000 and 2015, total units in Yakima grew by around 23 5% from 28,643 to 35,376 (ACS, 2015).
Overall growth in units in Yakima between 2000 and 2016 included an increase in 7 29 square miles (4,813
acres) from annexation
About Half of Yakima's Residents Are Renters
In 2014, an estimated 54 percent of units were owner -occupied, while 46 percent of units were renter -
occupied
Based on Vacancy Rates, Yakima's Housing Supply is Low
Vacancy rates, as an indicator of housing markets, can provide information about how supply and
demand are interacting and how the market and prices may react In 2014, vacancy in Yakima was
around 4 9 percent for renters and 2 0 percent for owners More recent 2016 data showed a tightening
of vacancy rates, particularly for renters, of 2 0 percent Several unit types (1 and 2 bedroom) show a
vacancy rate of 1 percent (Runstad Center for Real Estate Studies / University of Washington, spring
2016)
Most of Yakima's Housing Stock is Old
In 2014, only 10 percent of residential structures had been built since 2000, and 50 1 percent of units were
built 40 or more years ago Since housing units generally have a functional life of around 40 years, those
units older than 40 years require additional investments Preserving existing housing is important to
HOUSING
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
20 or Mobile Boat, RV,
more home van, etc
units 5.7% 0 2%
74%
3to19
2
Housing Structure Shares and Types (ACS,
2014)
1! H-2
r ri r r r� r� ,r ri rr �r r� rr rr rr �r r r ri r
0
inn r
eHOUSING
-a;. - Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
maintain affordability A map of structure age (both residential and commercial) is shown in Exhibit 5-1,
the vast majority of structures in the city are residential with older stock focused in eastern Yakima
Exhibit 5-1. Year Structure Built Map
b .,.._» •`.. fir`=
r- ! Y I'Lr1w�*kt
♦mac �L ��'a"��-� " �� ♦�+
�+is ;x %I
int 1 UL • �� ' rL � + ' • A �. .+ ^. ,
WE
1
.... k� �" sir tii ��r! � -. - ■ .
1rf._Li
s\
Y.kVm .^s15
Thr minmal�m .M.iVrMrrt m !hr 'Yrar h. 11 1.nm Ihr YA— C-1, A--, data T3.r r.,- p.rcrl h'hadre hetrd .. " —g—al —, atth— . 11, M.r s - a prenary -,,, ru.r ra•
larstr�,.ted
IT t n'Iematmr prp.ldet a vnwl rtPef<+Irilon d the ptllFr ,r era Vmtt' n' tnr wtllemerl pan,,. la Yak— The Mat of 041 hm* Yak.ne as —wded , A85 V—M lards r0— a
nr�mary q.1�1hw^ arr rM .i1t.Rnrp a Mrr hM'h t map
Source City of Yakima GIS 2016
YAKIMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE
PIAN UPDATE
Properties by Year Bain
P'.0 -h. b w.. a.M
■ ,W 19,.
+its WA
■
1927 1937
934 19N
911 19%
951 ,989
989 W78
. •999 1883
■ 990 2091
. 2002 2918
C3 YA— City LM,'t,
i uroan rxown, a.ea
N
A0 05 1 *109
I I I
The overall age of housing structures is indicative of structure quality, supported by national research that
shows a negative correlation between the age of a unit and its condition In addition, the older housing in
Yakima is generally not aligned well with the current and trending household needs in terms of household
size, the high number of households without children, relatively low income levels, and the age
demographics of the city. Alternately, Yakima's current population indicates an increasing need for more
small houses, townhouses, multifamily, and accessory dwelling units
Low Average Household Size
Within Yakima city limits, average household sizes in 2015 were an estimated 2.68 persons per household,
and average family sizes were an estimated 3 30 person per family (ACS, 2015) Yakima has among the
lowest average household sizes in the county (see chart to the right).
Yakima is a Community for the Young and Old Population
The City's population is getting older on average, with more retirees than any other community in Yakima
County Yet, the City is also seeing an increasing number of children, particularly in east Yakima Both
seniors and children grew by 5 percent between 2000 and 2010 citywide The City needs to address housing
and services for older generations such as aging in place, health, and mobility The City also needs to
address needs of younger residents such as education and recreation
The median age in Yakima in 2015 was 33 2, which has increased slightly over the previous 15 years An
estimated 30.6 percent of the population in 2014 was under 20 years of age, and an estimated 13 8 percent
was 65 and older
HOUSING
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
0 2 4
Granger
Mabton
111111111110
Wapato
3 75
Toppenish
3 77
Sunnyside
371
Tieton +
371
Grandview
3 7
Harrah -
345
Moxee
3.41
Zillah
307
Yakima
304
Union Gap
3.02
Yakima
273
Naches
271
United FIs
263
Washingt
2 SS
Selah
24S
451
451
Average Household Size in Yakima
County and Communities (2014)
6
M M = W M M
Yakima Has Many Young Residents but the Majority of Yakima Households Have No
Children
As of 2014, the City of Yakima contained approximately 33,074 households About 29 percent of
households consist of single persons, and another 24 percent of householders are married with no children
at home, this means over half of the City's households have single or coupled adults and no children About
19 percent of households consist of married persons with children, and another 14 percent are households
with single men or single women with children at home Last, 14 percent of households are classified as
other households (e.g non -married households without children). Future housing opportunities would
need to address both small units for those living alone as well as larger houses for families with children.
Exhibit 5-2 City of Yakima Household Characteristics: 2014
Single Parent,
Children, 14%
Other Households,
14%
Married, Children
19%
Married, No
Children at Home,
24%
Living Alone, 29%
Source U S. Census 5 -Year ACS, 2014, BERK Consulting 2016
1=11 M = r M
HOUSING
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Under 20 years 306%
20 - 64 years 558%
65 and older 138%
Population by Age (ACS, 2014)
C D% 5 0'0 10.0% 15 0%
Yakima
13.7%
United States
13.7%
W ash,ngton
132%
Setah
125%
Yakima County
1 12 1%
Un:on Gap
11 1%
Narhes
104%
Harrah
99%
Grandvevr
96%
Matron
8.3%
Sunnvsde
8 2%
Z41ah
81%
71eton
7 7%
'Wapato
7 5%
7oppen,sh
71%
Moxee
53%
Granger
37%
Persons Aged 65 and Older as a Percent
of Total Population (ACS, 2014)
e HOUSING
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Almost a Quarter of Yakima's Population Lives Below the Poverty Level
About 22.8 percent of the City's population earns Incomes below the federal poverty level This is higher
than the state as a whole (13 5%). It is within the range of communities in Yakima County Because the City
has the largest population in the County, the City's total persons in poverty Is greater than other
communities Affordable housing options are critical for this population
Percent of Population Below Federal Poverty Level
Yakima County and Communities: 2014
Washington State
United States
Selah
Zillah
1 299%
Moxee
1 295%
Yakima County
288%
Yakima
235%
Naches
22.8%
Harrah
22.5%
Sunnyside
22 1%
Tieton
1
20.4%
Grandview
15 6%
Granger
145%
Union Gap
13 5%
Toppenish
12 5%
Mabton
12.4%
Wapato
12 1%
Source Yakima County, 2016, U S Census 5 -Year ACS, 2014
339%
■ 40 8%
38.8%
M r M M M
HOUSING
e Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Demand for Special Needs Housing and Programs
Several populations may have special housing needs or supportive services, including the homeless,
residents with disabilities, single parents, seasonal and year-round farmworkers, and the elderly.
• According to the Homeless Network of Yakima County, in 2015 homelessness had decreased by over
44 percent since 2006 Homelessness still affects families with children, couples, and single persons.
■ As of 2014, the City of Yakima has the most persons with a disability in the county, and the second
highest share of the population at 15.3 percent, behind Union Gap
■ Single parent households, particularly female headed households, are more likely to have lower
incomes and potentially have cost burdens. As of 2014, over 10 percent of city households are
female headed and another almost 4 percent are male -headed with children
■ As described above, the elderly make up almost 14 percent of the city's population in 2014 The
elderly often have disabilities — about 46 percent — requiring universal housing designs that meet
ambulatory needs Continuum of care housing and services allowing aging in place are other
considerations over the planning period
■ The City of Yakima is located at the heart of Yakima County, which employs many farmworkers at the
farms, orchards, and livestock operations throughout the County. Many of these workers struggle to
find stable housing
The City of Yakima and other non-profit agencies offer a number of services that address maintaining and
attaining housing to meet the needs of low income households, disabled persons, and senior citizens in
the community.
Housing Value Is Increasing in Yakima, but Housing is Still Relatively Affordable
Appreciation rates have been above average for the last 10 years, at an annual average of 2.5 percent.
Home sales prices have dumped by $20,000 in the last year. The median priced home is attainable to half
of the City's residents However, in 2014, nearly half of Yakima's homeowners were cost burdened and
nearly one third of renters are cost burdened.
fin,
Rental Costs
The Runstad Center for Real Estate Research has noted that in 2016 that in the previous year " . Yakima
County has recorded the greatest decrease in vacancy rate with a considerable drop of 5 8 percent (from
7 8% to 1.7%) " If supply does not keep up with demand, it is likely that rental rates will increase
In the City there is a gap of over 3,300 units affordable to those earning lower incomes Many households
have to pay more than they can afford for the units that are available
Homeowner Costs
As of 2015, the County's housing supply showed it was relatively affordable for a metropolitan area and
that there was a large share of homes for sale below the median home price Recent price increases were
leading the state in 2015
In 2016, around 56% of households can afford a median home price, with homeownership less attainable
for the remaining 46% of the population To purchase a single family home at the current median selling
price a household would need to earn $38,477 annually or $3,206 monthly. There are an estimated 18,402
households in Yakima with incomes greater than $35,000, or 56% of the population that can afford the
median home price in Yakima.
5.3 Challenges and Opportunities
Yakima currently provides a relatively affordable housing stock, the majority of which are single family
homes. The City has additional capacity for housing with a large share of land that is developable,
particularly to the west, and a good portion of the City that provides an opportunity for infill development
and redevelopment
Low vacancy rates in Yakima are leading to a pressure on housing supply as the population grows and the
housing stock ages. New housing will be needed to replace units that have reached the end of their useful
life and to house new residents In addition, a diversity of housing types will be needed in order to provide
units that fit the needs of large and small households, special needs populations, those aging in place, and
a diversifying population
HOUSING
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
As of 2012, 32% of city renters are cost
burdened and 49% of owners are cost
burdened
Ensuring there are opportunities to
develop a variety of housing types and
densities affordable to different
income levels can help to address
current and future households and
their cost burden
2017 Capacity for New Units by
Council District on Undeveloped and
Redevelopable Land
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Yakima has a vision of being a place that provides affordable and quality housing equally to all residents \
across the city The City has sufficient capacity to meet future housing growth targets for 2040 Yakima's
strategy is to focus on infill housing downtown and in mixed use centers, with compatible transitions to
ground -related townhomes and single family dwellings The capacity in Downtown Yakima and mixed use°
nodes will create an increased supply of smaller units in multifamily or mixed use residential structures
while the undeveloped land capacity to the west will result in added single family units
5.4 Goals and Policies
GOAL 5.1. ENCOURAGE DIVERSE AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING CHOICES
Policies
5 1 1 Monitor market rate and affordable housing needs Review and adjust land capacity for housing
development and redevelopment based on housing needs
5 12 Promote the preservation, improvement, and development of single family homes in Yakima
5 13 Encourage mixed use infill development, particularly Downtown and in commercial nodes
5 1 4 Facilitate small lot sizes, condominiums, clustering and other options that increase the supply of
affordable homeownership options and the diversity of housing that meet the needs of aging,
young professional, and small and large households
5 1 5 Allow accessory dwelling units in single family zones to increase the supply of affordable housing
units and to help existing homeowners remain in their homes
5 16 Allow manufactured homes on individual lots in residential zones in accordance with the provisions
of state and federal law Apply development and design standards equally to manufactured
housing and other residences.
5.17 Promote the improvement of existing mobile home parks to meet health and safety standards and
quality of life needs of residents.
5.18 Encourage and incentivize affordable housing development.
5.19 Support proposals for affordable assisted and market rate housing based on the following criteria
e HOUSING
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
• Dispersion of affordable housing throughout the City
• Convenient access to transit
• A range of unit types
• Ownership housing when possible
• Long-term affordability
5.1 10. Remove barriers to development of affordable and market rate housing
■ Maintain a zoning system that allows a wide range of housing types and densities
■ Use creative SEPA tools such as exemption thresholds, infill and mixed use exemptions, or
planned actions to encourage housing and streamline permitting
■ Ensure that City fees and permitting time are set at reasonable levels so they do not
adversely affect the cost of housing
5.1 11 Encourage a range of affordable homeownership options and provide access to education for first
time buyers
5.1 12 Participate in efforts to secure land available for affordable housing
5.1 13 Allow for well-designed farmworker housing recognizing the City of Yakima's role as the primary
city in the agricultural Yakima valley with the greatest range of housing opportunities, urban
infrastructure, and public services
GOAL 5.2 PRESERVE AND IMPROVE EXISTING RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS.
Policies
52.1 Invest in and improve quality of life in existing neighborhoods
52.2 Support programs that improve and preserve Yakima's existing housing stock
52.3 Seek alternatives, when feasible, to demolition and removal of units from housing stock
52.4 Encourage maintenance and preservation of existing housing Maintain the City's Housing Repair
Assistance Program for low- and moderate -income homeowners
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GOAL 5.3. ENSURE AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF HOUSING FOR PERSONS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS.
Policies
53.1. Prioritize the provision of fair share housing opportunities to all economic segments of the
population and those with special needs.
53.2. Support development of new units and the operation of existing units for housing persons with
special needs such as the disabled and elderly. Promote universal design principles in new and
rehabilitated housing to ensure housing is designed for all persons and abilities
53.3. Support programs that offer assistance to homeless individuals and families
53.4. Support programs and housing options that allow the senior population to age in place as their
housing needs change.
GOAL 5.4. ENCOURAGE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE OF HIGH QUALITY
HOUSING.
54.1. Promote sustainable development practices in housing development
54.2. Use transitional densities, design and landscape standards to ensure housing is compatible with
existing character and planned goals
54.3. Encourage development of well-designed new housing in coordination with population growth,
employment growth, and transportation goals
544. Coordinate future housing development with capital planning and investment
545. Implement utility standards that encourage infill development
546. Ensure multimodal public and private transportation options are available for new and
redeveloped housing.
547. Promote complete streets and trails to interconnect Yakima's neighborhoods and promote
walkability
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HOUSING
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
HOUSING
e Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
54.8 Promote safe, energy efficient, and healthy housing attainable to very low-, low-, and moderate -
income households Explore measures to improve indoor air quality and foster construction
methods that reduce dust, mold, and air toxics concentrations in the homes.
GOAL 5 5. FOSTER A CARING COMMUNITY THAT NURTURES AND SUPPORTS INDIVIDUALS,
CHILDREN, AND THEIR FAMILIES.
55.1 Make human services more inclusive and accessible to the Yakima community.
5 5 2 Identify opportunities and develop strategies that are proactive and preventative in their approach
to human services needs.
553. Allocate City general funds and seek federal and state funds to offer human services that the City
can best provide to address a spectrum of community needs
554. Consider human services objectives in developing City regulations and codes For example,
enforcing code abatement may mean making people homeless. Ensuring there are community
resources to assist these residents, before they are abated, is critical
555. Cooperate with school districts and non-profit human service providers to identify needs and
effective delivery of services to individuals, children, and families.
556. Educate the community about and promote affordable and special needs housing and human
services facilities and programs. Conduct early and ongoing public outreach and communication
during program or project review and apply appropriate conditions of approval that address
community concerns such as traffic congestion, public service provision, or environmental quality
5.5 Implementation
Yakima's Housing Element is implemented through the actions and investments made by the City with the
support of its residents and stakeholders Some of these actions include regulatory changes, partnerships,
coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, human service programs, and capital investments The
following implementation items aid in this process
H-12
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Exhibit 5-3 Housing Implementation
Strategic plan, updated periodically, that a
Data on housing inventory
provides an assessment of current and
and needs
City of Yakima projected housing needs, housing market
Inventory of affordable
Consolidated Plan trends, inventory conditions, barriers to
housing providers
providing affordable housing, a list of current
housing needs and
providers, and a five-year strategy for providing
Increase in affordable
affordable housing
housing
A Ten -Year Plan to End
Homelessness: A Five
Year Update
Annual Action Plan for
CDBG and HOME
Investment Partnership
Funds, 2016
Yakima County
Farmworker Housing
Action Plan, 2011— 2016
Zoning Code, YMC Title
15
Senior/Disabled Persons
Home Repair Program
■
Data on homelessness
Report on local efforts and strategies
■
Decrease homelessness
■
Investment in affordable
housing needs and
Plan for use of federal funds, updated annually
community development
needs
•
Housing needs data for
seasonal and year-round
Strategic plan for approaching issues related to
farmworkers
farmworker housing
•
Increased housing stability
for farmworkers
■
Ensure code aligns with
goals and needs in the
Regulatory law on housing development,
community
amended as needed
■
Remove barriers to
affordable housing
City housing program administered through the ■
Increased investment in
Office of Neighborhood Development to those
neighborhoods
who qualify (income and asset restrictions) m
Aesthetic improvements
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
H-14
City housing program administered through the
Increased investment in
Exterior Paint Program
Office of Neighborhood Development to those
neighborhoods
who qualify (age and disability restrictions)
Aesthetic improvements
Homeownership Through
City housing program administered through the
Office of Neighborhood Development to those
Increased homeownership
New Construction
who qualify (income restrictions)
Office of Neighborhood Development Services
Improved tenant/landlord
Tenant/Landlord
program to assist either tenants or landlords
relationships
Counseling
with disputes and advice on reaching
Education on legal support
agreements or seeking legal support
for those in need
A City program within the Yakima Target Area
that provides funds to purchase lots for
New housing stock
Lot Acquisition Program
residential development projects Lots must be
Neighborhood revitalization
residentially zoned, have vacant or substandard
buildings, and be developed within 12 months
New infill development
of purchase
A City program designed to provide increased
Special valuations for eligible
Downtown
residential opportunities This program is
improvements in
Redevelopment Tax
intended to stimulate new multi -family housing
residentially deficient urban
Incentive Program (YMC
and the rehabilitation of vacant and
centers.
11 63)
underutilized buildings for multi -family
housing
H-14
6.1 Introduction
The multimodal transportation system is integral to many facets of the City of Yakima, Including land use,
economic development, tourism, and recreation The Transportation Element together with Its
companion document, the City of Yakima 2040 Transportation Systems Plan (TSP), provides the
framework to guide the growth and development of the city's transportation infrastructure The Element
and Plan integrate land use and the transportation systems, responding to current needs and ensuring
that all future developments are adequately served. The Transportation Element addresses the
development of a balanced, multi -modal transportation system for the city and adjacent urban growth
area (UGA) and recognizes the regional nature of the transportation system and the need for continuing
interagency coordination
This Transportation Element and Transportation Systems Plan are based on a study of Yakima's existing
transportation network, combined with a 23 -year (2040) projection of future growth and transportation
needs The Transportation Element establishes a policy framework for making decisions consistent with
the City's vision, and describes a strategy for accomplishing the City's vision over the 23 -year planning
horizon. Based on the goals and policies in the Transportation Element, the Transportation Systems Plan
Is intended to serve as a guide for transportation decisions to address both short and long term needs
GMA Goal —Transportation Element
• Be consistent with the Land Use Element, including
travel forecasts of at least 10 -years based on the land
use plans,
■ Identify the impacts of the City's land use (and
transportation) plans on the on state owned
transportation facilities to provide a framework for
monitoring the performance of and planning for
improvements for the state highways and other state
facilities,
■ Include level of service (LOS) standards for all locally
owned arterials and transit routes to gauge the
performance of the systems,
■ Identify system improvements to address any LOS
deficiencies,
■ Include a multiyear financing plan based on the needs
identified in the comprehensive plan
6.2 Policy Framework
The Growth Management Act requires that a transportation element be consistent with the Land Use
Element and that it address
• Land use assumption used in estimating travel,
• Estimated traffic impacts to state-owned transportation facilities resulting from land use
assumptions to assist the department of transportation in monitoring the performance of state
facilities, to plan improvements for the facilities, and to assess the impact of land -use decisions on
state-owned transportation facilities,
• Facilities and services including
o An inventory of air, water, and ground transportation facilities and services, including transit
alignments and general aviation airport facilities, to define existing capital facilities and travel
levels as a basis for future planning This inventory must include state-owned transportation
facilities within the city or county's jurisdictional boundaries;
o Regionally coordinated level of service standards for all locally owned arterials and transit routes
to serve as a gauge to fudge performance of the system,
o Level of service standards for state-owned highways,
o Specific actions and requirements for bringing into compliance locally owned transportation
facilities or services that are below an established level of service standard,
o Forecasts of traffic for at least ten years based on the adopted land use plan to provide
information on the location, timing, and capacity needs of future growth, and
o Identification of state and local system needs to meet current and future demands Identified
needs on state-owned transportation facilities must be consistent with statewide multimodal
transportation planning,
■ Financing, including:
o An analysis of funding capability to judge needs against probable funding resources,
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
TT(1
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
o A multiyear financing plan based on the needs identified in the comprehensive plan, the
appropriate parts of which shall serve as the basis for the six-year street, road, or transit
program; and
o A discussion of how additional funding will be raised, or how land use assumptions will be
reassessed to ensure that level of service standards will be met, if probable funding falls short of
meeting identified needs,
■ Intergovernmental coordination efforts, including an assessment of the impacts of the transportation
plan and land use assumptions on the transportation systems of adjacent jurisdictions,
■ Demand management strategies; and
• Pedestrian and bicycle component to include collaborative efforts to identify and designate planned
improvements for pedestrian and bicycle facilities and corridors that address and encourage
enhanced community access and promote healthy lifestyles.
Creating a functional, coherent, and seamless regional transportation systems requires coordination of
transportation planning between jurisdictions and agencies To ensure the efforts of all service providers
are coordinated, consistent and meet a range of regional goals, the Yakima Valley Conference of
Governments and the Yakima County Countywide Planning Policies establish transportation policy
frameworks for the region. Direction contained in each of these documents is incorporated in the goals
and policies of this element
6.3 Conditions and Trends
The City of Yakima owns and manages transportation facilities throughout the city and UGA The
multimodal transportation system is integral to many facets of the City of Yakima, including land use,
economic development, tourism, and recreation
Vehicle Operations
City of Yakima LOS standards are identified in this Comprehensive Plan for roadways within the City For
these roadways the standard is LOS D
■ The results of the LOS analysis indicate that all of the study intersections currently meet City LOS
standards, with the exception of three intersections located at S 64th Ave / Tieton Dr (TWSC), N 16th
Ave / W Tieton Dr (Signal), and S 18th St / E Nob Hill Blvd (Signal) These three intersections are
located on arterial roadways which are designated to serve a high number of vehicles
Vehicle, Pedestrian, and Bicycle Safety
The collision history of the transportation system can help identify crash patterns for all modes and is used
in the development of projects to improve the safety of the City's roadways.
• Eight intersections within the City had an observed collision rate higher than the intersection's critical
collision rate
Five of the eight intersections had collisions with pedestrians or bicycles. Of those five intersections,
the 16th Avenue / Tieton Drive intersection had the most with one pedestrian collision and two
bicycle collisions.
■ More than half of all non -motorized collisions occurred on Principal Arterials While these roadways
carry only a portion of pedestrian and cyclists, they are the roadways where most collisions between
vehicles and pedestrians or vehicles and cyclists occurred
Land Use Changes
The 2040 Baseline alternative was developed to establish a framework for the Plan and to identify future
traffic operational deficiencies. The Baseline alternative is also referred to as Alternative 1 or the No Action
alternative This land use scenario assumes current land use zoning within City limits remaining in place
and household and employment growth allocated throughout the City consistent with historical trends
• The Preferred alternative is also referred to as Alternative 2 This land use scenario assumed changes
to the zoning within Yakima that would reallocate growth to areas closer to the downtown areas and
northeast Yakima. For regional growth outside the City limits, the same assumptions use for Baseline
were applied
• Analysis and land distribution in the Land Use Element is based upon the preferred alternative
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
T-4
Improvement Projects
The City has identified a comprehensive list of multimodal transportation system improvement projects
and programs. Thematic examples of projects include:
■ Intersection Improvements include upgrading intersections through added turn lanes or
modifications to traffic controls Where applicable, improvements may also include upgrading traffic
signals and implementing Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), which could encompass
modifications to vehicle detection and coordinated signal timing.
■ Active Transportation improvements add pedestrian and bicycle facilities to roadways or construct
off-street multiuse pathways to complete gaps in the existing non -motorized network
■ Study includes further analysis and evaluation to develop more detailed improvement projects and
cost estimates
• Roadway Improvements include modifying roadways to current City design standards and
incorporating multimodal improvements to serve higher traffic volumes and non -motorized travel
• New Roadway includes constructing new arterials or collector roads, including non -motorized
facilities.
The comprehensive list of multimodal transportation improvement projects is described in the
Transportation Systems Plan.
6.4 2040 Transportation Systems Plan
The City of Yakima 2040 Transportation Systems Plan (TSP) presents an inventory, revenue analysis, level
of service analysis, and all known transportation needs for the future of Yakima to accommodate growth
The TSP and this Element together provide a comprehensive look at investment in the City's transportation
system and its ability to serve residents broadly The TSP aids the City in ensuring that transportation
facilities are in place to serve current residents and future growth as new development occurs
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
6.5 Goals and Policies
[Prior to final adoption of the Plan the Transportation Goals and Policies will be revised to fit in the same
format as the other elements)
The Transportation Element goals and policies help guide implementation of the City's transportation
system and supports the other Elements of the Comprehensive Plan and the overall vision for Yakima The
goals and policies establish the general philosophy for use of City rights-of-way and transportation funds.
The policies also indicate City priorities for regional transportation system programs, including freeways,
arterials, non -motorized facilities, bus and rail transit service and facilities, and transportation demand
management (TDM)
GOAL 6 1. DEVELOP AN INTEGRATED AND BALANCED TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IN YAKIMA
THAT PROVIDES SAFE, EFFICIENT, AND RELIABLE MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION
GOAL 6 2. INCREASE THE SHARE OF TRIPS MADE BY NON -MOTORIZED TRAVEL MODES.
GOAL 6 3. PROVIDE A TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM THAT SUPPORTS THE CITY'S LAND USE PLAN
AND IS CONSISTENT WITH THE WASHINGTON TRANSPORTATION PLAN, YAKIMA VALLEY
METROPOLITAN AND REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN, AND YAKIMA COUNTY
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN.
GOAL 6 4. PRESERVE AND EXTEND THE SERVICE LIFE AND UTILITY OF TRANSPORTATION
INVESTMENTS
GOAL 6.5. ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT A STABLE, LONG-TERM FINANCIAL FOUNDATION FOR
IMPROVING THE QUALITY, EFFECTIVENESS, AND EFFICIENCY OF THE TRANSPORTATION
SYSTEM.
Policies
General Plan and Safety — A multimodal transportation network moves people and goods safely through
the city and nearby areas These policies include implementing standards that improve safety and
efficiency for all roadway users, and maintaining design standards.
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
6.51 Use a combination of enforcement, education, and engineering methods to keep vehicular travel
patterns and travel speeds consistent with street functional classification, and promote pedestrian
safety
6.52 Enforce intersection clear -view standards at intersections and access points to promote safety for
all users of the transportation system
6.53 Maintain street signage, wayfinding, and lane markings to industry standards to heighten traffic
safety, support emerging vehicle technology, and maintain clean community image
6.54 Maintain program to monitoring and analyzing vehicle collision patterns and severity of injuries to
identify high priority safety improvements.
6.55 Include accommodations for the transportation needs of special population groups (such as ADA -
related, school age, and/or elderly) for each transportation project Use design standards for
consistent application.
6.56 Leverage the transportation system to help create and enhance a sense of place within the City.
This includes gateway treatments, landscaping, pedestrian -scale elements, and lighting. Use
design standards for consistent application at target locations
6 5 7 Balance the needs of pedestrians, bicycles, transit, autos, and trucks on the whole transportation
system by improving streets according to the Mode Priority Classification This includes
intersection and access designs
6.58 Work to address remaining road -rail conflicts within the City. Enhance protection (signals or gates)
or remove conflict (grade -separation or facility removal). Properly maintain existing grade -
separation infrastructure
Transportation Network Efficiency—A multimodal transportation network moves people and goods safely
through the city and nearby areas. These policies include implementing standards that improve safety and
efficiency for all roadway users, and maintaining design standards
6.59 Ensure that the city transportation networks (all travel modes) have good connectivity to provide
safe alternate routes and more direct travel Where possible, encourage small block sizes
TRANSPORTATION
ORP Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
65.10 Discourage new 4 -lane streets (where left -turns are expected) because of safety and system
efficiency issues Convert existing 4 -lane streets to 3 -lane streets, 4 -lane streets with turn -
restrictions, or 5 -lane streets, depending on forecasted vehicle volumes, street classifications,
multi -modal use, and adjacent land uses.
65.11 Maintain a program to repair and preserve existing streets surfaces, drainage, sidewalks, street
lighting, and trails, including ADA -related upgrades
6S.12 Reduce growth in vehicle travel demand through transit, active transportation, and other
Commute Reduction strategies This postpones the need for capital roadway projects.
65.13 Maintain a Transportation Concurrency Program and Traffic Impact Study guidelines to coordinate
projects related to SEPA mitigations, off-site developer improvements, and the 6 -Year
Transportation Improvement Program
6 5.14 Coordinate transit facility improvements on all projects Evaluate if additional or relocated stops,
pull-outs, shelters, or other special improvements are needed
Active Transportation —The active transportation system includes pedestrian, bicycling, and other modes
that promote healthy lifestyles and provide alternative modes to private vehicles for commuting These
modes depend on increasing network connectivity and constructing non -motorized facilities within the
city
6 5 15 Educate pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers regarding pedestrian and bicycle safety, sharing the road,
and Rules of the Road, including multi -modal rules Promote and support special events (races and
bicycle rodeos) that encourage bicycling and pedestrian safety.
6 5 16 Require new development, infill development, and redevelopments to provide pedestrian facilities T
and transit facilities along their street frontage consistent with adopted street design standards,
ADA Transition Plan, Bicycle Master Plan, and Transit Development Plan.
6.5 17. Give high priority to projects that create or improve safe "Walk to School Routes', provide access
to activity centers, provide linkages to transit, and connections to trails for pedestrians and
bicyclists.
M M M M IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIN M M
6 5 18. Work to improve pathway linkages to regional and off-street trail systems as identified in the ADA
Transition Plan and Bicycle Master Plan
6 5 19. Encourage projects and support grant applications and other funding sources that provide facilities
(such as signage, lighting, and/or restrooms) at trailhead locations to support safe, clean, and
efficient trail use.
6 5 20. Provide bicycle storage facilities at transit facilities, buses, and civic centers Require storage
facilities at employment, retail, and mixed-use developments.
6 5 21. Maintain and regularly update an inventory of sidewalks, curb ramps, marked crosswalks, trails,
bicycle facilities, transit facilities, and roadways to assist in a smart allocation of transportation
resources
6 5 22. Support the development and adoption of a Pedestrian System Plan.
Transportation Funding —Adequate, diverse, and sustainable funding sources for transportation projects
can help ensure the implementation of improvement projects
6 5 24. Actively seek and develop funding solutions to address future project and program needs and
address transportation goals of the City. This includes dedicated funding sources to match state or
federal funding.
6 5 25. Provide freight routes to serve the Yakima Regional Airport, significant industrial centers, and other
freight activity centers. Maintain a dedicated funding source for capital, operation and
maintenance of the City's Transit System.
6 5 26. Encourage the use of public and private funding to remove gaps in pedestrian facilities on existing
roadways.
Economic Activity — Air, rail, and freight are important economic drivers for the City and region. Ensuring
adequate access to these activities and to the regional network is important
6 5.27. Provide freight routes to serve the Yakima Regional Airport, significant industrial centers, and
other freight activity centers
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
6 5 28 Support future expansion of services at Yakima Regional Airport by anticipating any necessary
transportation T28 network changes in the vicinity of the airport, including intermodal facilities
6 5 29 Support future services of rail interests by anticipating any necessary transportation network
changes in the vicinity of the rail facilities.
Interjurisdictional Coordination — Encouraging coordination between the City and public/private
partnerships will help create a cohesive regional transportation network
6 5 30 Plan and support the transportation networks in the City and region in collaboration with Yakima
County, the City of Union Gap, the WSDOT, and other neighboring jurisdictions
6 5 31 Coordinate with WSDOT and neighboring jurisdictions regarding level of service definitions,
concurrency requirements, and other impacts.
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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6.6 Implementation
Yakima's Urban Area Comprehensive Plan is implemented through the actions and investments made by
the City with the support of its residents and stakeholders Some of these actions include regulatory
changes, partnerships, coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, and capital investments The
following implementation items aid in this process
Exhibit -1. Transportation Element Implementation
Transportation
Functional Plan and Funding
Systems Plan
Plan for six and 20 -year period
Transportation
Six-year investment program
Improvement Program
updated annually with budget
Metropolitan/Regional County -wide long range
Transportation Plan transportation plan
• Transportation improvements for addressing
existing conditions and planning for short and
long-term growth
■ Transportation investment programming over
short-term.
■ Sets priorities for the regional transportation
system with goals and strategies
■ Consistency with local plans.
TRANSPORTATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
7.1 Introduction
The Capital Facilities Element and associated Capital Facilities Plan (Volume II Appendices) are designed to
provide policies to ensure adequate public facilities are available to serve existing and new development
in an efficient, effective, and equitable manner The element, along with the Capital Facilities Plan, details
the inventories of existing facilities, lists future infrastructure needs, identifies funding sources, and
provides the goals and policies that create a framework for capital facility planning
Capital planning, as required by the Growth Management Act (GMA), must be coordinated with the City's
larger land use planning process This includes ensuring that adequate capital facilities are available as
development and growth occur, along with the distribution of improvements responsive to prioritized
need
Part of the capital facilities planning process involves prioritizing the funds that are available to capital
spending, which involves a decision process about the level of service (LOS) that will be provided and where
investment will occur, taking into consideration the land capacities for growth within Yakima This element
GMA Goal — Public Facilities and Services
Ensure that those public facilities and services
necessary to support development shall be adequate
to serve the development at the time the development
is available for occupancy and use without decreasing
current service levels below locally established
minimum standards (RCW 36 70A.020(12)
What are Capital Facilities? Capital facilities involved
should include, at a minimum, water systems, sanitary
sewer systems, storm water facilities, reclaimed water
facilities, schools, parks and recreational facilities,
police and fire protection facilities. (WAC 365-196-
415(2)(a)(ii)) City Financial Management Policies
consider capital assets to be assets with values in
excess of $5,000 and an estimated useful life of more
than one year
AL CAPITAL FACILITIES
421 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
helps frame the criteria that these decisions are based on as capital planning occurs All other capital facility
functional plans will refer to the goals and policies within
7.2 Conditions and Trends
The City of Yakima owns and operates the following capital facilities police and fire facilities; roads, city
buildings, the airport, transit facilities, water, irrigation, wastewater, and stormwater facilities, solid waste
facilities; and parks Additional capital facilities that are not operated by the City of Yakima, but which are
necessary for development schools; fire facilities; water and irrigation facilities by special districts The
applicable plans listed in Exhibit 7-1, which lists capital facility providers, are incorporated by reference
Exhibit 7-1. Capital Facility Service Providers
It ■ CF -2
We, axe Wahiltm �Ma:!!w ar A
Appitcabie Pians
Public Buildings
City of Yakima
Includes City -owned public buildings
City Budget, 2016
Fire and
Provides facilities that support the
Emergency
Yakima Fire
provision of fire and emergency
Yakima Fire Department
Services
Department
services
Annual Report, 2016
Yakima Police
Provides facilities that support the
Yakima Police
Law Enforcement
Department
provision of law enforcement services
Department 2014 Annual
Report
Provides elementary and secondary
facilities for instruction in several
Yakima School
branches of learning and study
2014 — 2015 Fiscal Year -
District
required by the Basic Education Code
End Report (YSD)
Schools
of the State of Washington The
West Valley School
Yakima School District serves most
2016 — 2017 Budget
District
Summary (WVSD)
students and the West Valley School
District serves the western part of the
city
Yakima Parks and
Provides facilities for passive and
2012 — 2017 Parks and
Parks
Recreation
active recreational activities
Recreation
It ■ CF -2
We, axe Wahiltm �Ma:!!w ar A
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Q .dL CAPITAL FACILITIES
426 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Source BERK Consulting 2017
Comprehensive Plan
(Under Update)
Provides streets, sidewalks, traffic
6 -Year TIP, 2017 - 2022
Streets Yakima Public Works
controls, and street lighting.
Transportation Plan 2017
(pending)
Transit Development
Provides transit service in and around
Plan Annual Report for
Transit Yakima Transit
the City of Yakima
2015 and Six -Year Plan
2016-2021
The Air Terminal is owned by the City
Yakima Air
of Yakima and provides facilities for air
Terminal/McAllister Field
Air Terminal Yakima Air Terminal
service The City contracts with a third
Airport Master Plan,
party operator
2015
Provides facilities used in collection,
2015 Waste Load
transmission, storage, and treatment
Assessment
Wastewater Yakima Public Works
or discharge of waterborne waste
2013 Wastewater
Collection System
within the city
Master Plan
Provides facilities that collect and
Stormwater
Stormwater Yakima Public Works
transport stormwater runoff.
Management Program
for City of Yakima, 2015
City of Yakima, Water
System Plan Update,
Yakima Public Works
provides supply of potable water to
2017 (pending)
Water Nob Hill Water
portions of the City of Yakima.
Nob Hill Water
Associates
Association Draft Water
System Plan, May 2015
Provides supply of non -potable
Irrigation Yakima Public Works
irrigation water to portions of the City
City of Yakima
of Yakima
Refuse City of Yakima Refuse
Provides automated refuse collection
City Budget, 2016
to residential customers.
Source BERK Consulting 2017
CAPITAL FACILITIES
4k 1 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
The Capital Facilities Plan provides the detailed summary of provider facilities, level of service standards,
and planned projects It is based on the projected growth associated with the proposed Land Use Plan in
the Land Use Element. Some highlights of the Capital Facilities Plan levels of service analysis are
summarized below
Public Buildings: The City manages municipal and cultural buildings including City Hall, Capitol Theatre,
and the Convention Center The City does not have a level of service standard for public buildings, and
facilities are anticipated to be adequate to meet the needs of current population and future growth. The
City should designate an LOS standard for capital facilities deemed necessary for the operations of the City.
To carry forward the current ratio of space to the projected population, the ratio would be 2,400 square
feet per person To maintain the current building inventory through the year 2040, the ratio would be
1,900 square feet per person.
Fire and Emergency Services: The City of Yakima Fire Department (YFD) provides emergency and non-
emergency fire, rescue, and medical services to the City As of January, 2015 the Yakima Fire Department
provides services to the city of Union Gap and Yakima County Fire Protection District 11 (Broadway)
through an interlocal agreement (YFD, 2016) The current adopted level of service for response time is 8
minutes, 90% of the time In 2016, YFD was able to meet this level of service 69% of the time, with an
average response time of just over eight minutes However, the 2016 Annual Report indicated that there
has been an increase in number of calls and type of responses, which has changed the scope of service
needed by YFD (YFD, 2016) As calls and incident types increase, the department could experience pressure
on its ability to provide services at the identified LOS standard, leading to a need for changes to the
operations and facilities
Law Enforcement. The current LOS policy for YPD is 1.8 officers per 1,000 residents (see Exhibit 7-2). Using
the LOS of 18 officers per 1,000 residents, the department currently has a deficit of 20 officers Since
population growth will lead to increased demand for police services, with current staffing levels there
would be a deficit of 62 officers by 2040 (when the population is expected to increase to over 110,000).
Given that YPD is already operating out of a constrained space, the addition of 60 officers will add to the
need for new and expanded capital facilities
Schools: The City of Yakima is primarily served by the Yakima School District and the West Valley School
District Assuming that the current service level of a student -teacher ratio of 18 3 is maintained, by 2040,
[ME
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4
142 additional teachers will be needed to serve the additional students coming to the Yakima School
District. The level of service analysis for the West Valley School District, based on the square footage
information provided, indicates that there is around 167 square feet per student served In order to
continue serving students at this level, over 400,000 square feet will need to be added to the inventory by
2040 to accommodate student growth.
Parks: Yakima has 401.82 acres of parks and recreation facilities Park types include Regional,
Neighborhood, Community, Mini, Pathway, Parkway, Golf Course, and Cemetery. Only the Neighborhood
and Community Parks are assigned levels of service standards. Based on a two -acre per 1,000 population
standard for Neighborhood/Mini Parks, the City of Yakima has a current deficit of park lands, and will have
a deficit of 173 acres by 2040 if no additional Neighborhood Parks are added Based on a five -acre per
1,000 population standard for Community Parks, the City has a current deficit of 217 acres and will have a
deficit of over 300 acres by 2040 if no additional Community Park lands are added.
Air Terminal: The facility assessment in the Yakima Airport Master Plan identifies that the passenger
terminal will need to be expanded by 2020 or sooner to maintain an acceptable level of service for
passenger air service. Commercial, cargo, and passenger air service is expected to continue to have a
growth in demand
Street Lights: Street lights are one of many of Yakima's expenses each year The City of Yakima maintains
4,925 street lights The approximate cost for power consumption is around $300k per year which works
out to about $61 per light per year. The City is in the process of converting street lights to energy-saving
LED lights There is no adopted level of service standard
Streets and Sidewalks: The City of Yakima maintains approximately 750 miles of streets and 250 miles of
sidewalk. Street classification and Level of Service is discussed in greater detail in the Transportation
Element
Wastewater: The Yakima Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) processes wastewater from
homes and businesses in Yakima, as well as Union Gap, Terrace Heights, and Moxee There are pockets of
land in the City that are not served by sewers due to the land being vacant, or challenging physical
conditions, or past development allowed on septic systems. The City lacks a system -wide sewer plan to
identify the specific locations of new trunk lines, the engineering, and cost of new lines
CAPITAL FACILITIES
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
AIL CAPITAL FACILITIES
420 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
The City conducted a sewer system plan update in 2016, which considers future land use and growth The
Yakima Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant (YRWWTP) has long-term capacity to serve at current levels
Stormwater Yakima's stormwater collection area includes the City of Yakima, as well as some of the West
Valley area outside of city limits As the City grows, developments will be required to install new
conveyance and stormwater management systems Maintaining level of service through 2040 will require
maintaining the existing system and ensuring new facilities are constructed in accordance with the
Municipal Stormwater Permit.
Water Water and irrigation services in Yakima are provided by the Yakima Water Division, which is owned
and operated by the City of Yakima, and the non-profit Nob Hill Water Association (which is partially
located within the City) (Nob Hill Water, 2016). Some areas are under served, water service is extended on
request and new development pays for the extension of infrastructure The current Yakima system
capacity is 216 millions of gallons per day (MGD), and in 2040 there will be an additional 17 mgd of
capacity beyond the projected maximum day demand (MDD) The Nob Hill 2015 Water System Plans
assumes a growth rate of over 2% Planned growth in western Yakima is about 15% and can be
accommodated with the improvements identified in the district's Water System Plan
Irrigation: The City of Yakima was originally developed on irrigated farmland, with irrigation provided by
several private irrigation systems Today the City's system allows customers to irrigate lawns, gardens and
small farms. The separate, non -potable irrigation system is composed of more than 60 systems and sub-
systems, and serves approximately 2,100 acres of developed land and 11,000 customers The City of
Yakima currently serves the irrigation district with a total of 85 miles of pipe for over 50,000 customers
The City has invested over $15 million in the irrigation system, which went toward refurbishing 32 miles of
pipe line in order to bring the system up to an acceptable level of service The level of service standard
provides for minimum design pressure of 20 psi Currently, there are 16 miles of pipe per 1,000 customers
served Assuming this is an appropriate level of service, 6 24 miles of pipe will need to be added to maintain
this level of service through the addition of new customers by 2040.
Refuse: The City of Yakima's Refuse Division provides weekly garbage collection to over 26,000 households
located within the City of Yakima Annually, around 32,000 tons is collected, with around 90% of the
tonnage categorized as garbage and around 10% categorized as recycled yard waste The Solid Waste and
Recycling Division operates under the mission of protecting the public health and safety of the City of
eye � CF -6
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420
Yakima and its residents through providing solid waste services that are efficient, cost effective, and
environmentally responsible. If nearly 6,000 housing units are added with the future land use plan that
could mean about 7,400 more tons of solid waste, an increase of 23%. Additional capital costs and staffing
may be required to absorb the increase in demand for garbage collection
7.3 Capital Facilities Plan
The Capital Facilities Plan (Volume II Appendices) presents an inventory, revenue analysis, level of service
analysis, and all known capital needs for the future of Yakima to accommodate growth. The Plan and this
Element together provide a comprehensive look at investment in the City's infrastructure and its ability to
serve residents broadly The Plan aids the City in ensuring that capital facilities are in place to serve current
residents and future growth as new development occurs
7.4 Goals and Policies
GOAL 7.1. PRIORITIZE FUNDING IN A WAY THAT ALLOWS THE CITY TO MAINTAIN AND INVEST IN
FACILITIES THAT PROVIDE SERVICES TO YAKIMA'S RESIDENTS IN A WAY THAT
INCREASES THE QUALITY OF LIFE, MEETS SERVICE STANDARDS, AND ACCOMMODATES
GROWTH.
Policies
71 1 Prepare and adopt a six-year Capital Facilities Plan (CFP) regularly and include reviews of forecasts
and actual growth, revenue and costs totals based on adopted level of service standards, and the
means and timing by which identified deficiencies will be corrected Annually adopt a Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) with the budget that more specifically identifies financing and
implementation of facilities contained in the six-year CIP. Ensure the 20 -year projected growth,
level of service, and funding projections are also considered in the CFP
7 1 2 Ensure budget decisions are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
713 Manage capital facility planning and funding consistent with the City of Yakima Financial
Management Policy and Stewardship of Public Funds.
CAPITAL FACILITIES
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
r`
L /Ank
♦ ' CAPITAL FACILITIES
420 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
7 1 4 Aggressively pursue funding from all levels of government and private agencies to accomplish the
City's Capital Investment Program while optimizing resources
7.1 5 Use the Capital Improvement Program and functional plans to prioritize facility funding.
7.1 6 Ensure consistency between land use planning and capital planning
7.1 7 Use local population and employment projections as a baseline for capital facilities needs planning.
7.18 Plan for long-term maintenance and replacement needs
7.19 Pursue required facility maintenance, improvement, and replacement needs to increase efficiency
and expand system capacity in concert with the growth of this region.
71.10 Adopt a policy for level of service standards for individual services to use as a performance
measure and to evaluate future capital facility needs as identified in Exhibit 7-2
Exhibit 7-2. Level of Service Standards
Public Buildings City of Yakima ■ In order to maintain existing level of service through
2036, the LOS policy would need to be 2,400 square feet
per 1,000 population
• In order to maintain the current public building space
without adding capacity through 2040, the LOS policy
would need to be 1,900 square feet per 1,000
population.
Fire and Yakima Fire Department ■ Response time eight minutes, 90% of the time
Emergency
Services
Law Enforcement Yakima Police Department ■ 18 Officers per 1,000 population
1! CF -8
! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
♦ CAPITAL FACILITIES
420 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Schools Yakima School District E Yakima School District Student -teacher ratio of 18 3.
West Valley School District ■ West Valley School District Student -teacher ratio of 17.2
Parks Yakima Parks and Recreation ■ Two acres per 1,000 population for Neighborhood/Mini
Parks
• Five acres per 1,000 population for Community Parks
Streets, Transit Yakima Public Works, Yakima ■ See Transportation Element and Transportation Plan
Transit, Yakima Air Terminal
Air Terminal City of Yakima ■ Reliable and safe air service at a facility that is
Street Lights
Wastewater
Stormwater
Water
Irrigation
Refuse
compatible with the community.
City of Yakima
■ None
Yakima Public Works
■ 342 8 pounds of organic loading per day per 1,000
population.
Yakima Public Works
■ Maintain per Ecology Stormwater Management Manual
for Eastern Washington or equivalent as determined by
the Stormwater Management Program for the City of
Yakima
Yakima Public Works
■ Yakima 233 gallons per day (gpd) per equivalent
Nob Hill Water Associates
residential unit (ERU)
■ Nob Hill: 309 gpd/ERU.
Yakima Public Works
0 Minimum design pressure of 20 psi
City of Yakima Refuse
■ 123 tons of refuse per household per year.
AL CAPITAL FACILITIES
420 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
• Set level of service consistent with existing service of
collecting 123 tons per household per year.
• Set service standard for percent of solid waste diverted
to recycling.
7.1 11 Reassess the land use element if probable funding falls short of existing needs The reassessment
may result in changes to growth projections, alternative level of service standards, or expanded
funding or financing options.
GOAL 7.2 ENSURE SERVICE PROVISION AND CAPITAL PROJECTS ARE COORDINATED BETWEEN
CITY DEPARTMENTS, SURROUNDING JURISDICTIONS, AND WITH PRIVATE UTILITIES.
Policies
7.2 1 Use departmental functional plans to plan for the long-term facility needs of individual services
7.22 Work with Yakima County and adjoining jurisdictions, and local purveyors to manage, regulate,
and maintain the regional water, wastewater, and irrigations systems.
72 3 Encourage public and private community service providers to share or reuse facilities when
appropriate, to reduce costs, conserve land, and provide convenience and amenities for the public.
Encourage joint siting and shared use of facilities for schools, community centers, health facilities,
cultural and entertainment facilities, public safety/public works, libraries, swimming pools, and
other social and recreational facilities
72.4 Encourage service providers to consolidate facilities, use existing facilities, construct within
existing transportation and utilities corridors and to minimize visual impacts of new and expanded
facilities where technically feasible.
GOAL 7.3 ENSURE THAT FACILITIES AND SERVICES ARE PLANNED, DESIGNED, AND SITED IN A FAIR
AND EQUITABLE MANNER.
oni„-.ee
7.3 1 Provide equitable levels of service by accounting for existing community conditions and needs, and
considering how decisions will impact different geographic areas and racial and socioeconomic
groups
7.32 Prioritize social, environmental, and economic equity in siting or expanding capital facilities
7.33 Encourage public engagement and input into large public capital facility projects to identify
community needs and community benefits
GOAL 7.4. PROVIDE ADEQUATE SERVICES WITHIN THE URBAN AREA IN A MANNER THAT
PROTECTS PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY, IS AESTHETICALLY COMPATIBLE, AND
PROTECTS ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Policies
7.4.1 Coordinate with other jurisdictions and suppliers in the city limits and UGA to ensure a reliable,
economic source of water and to address the long-term regional water demand needs of all of the
area's agencies and suppliers
7.4.2 Encourage water conservation by residents and businesses and undertake municipal actions to
conserve water and water resources as appropriate.
7.4.3 Encourage conversion from on-site wastewater disposal systems as sewer lines become available.
Require areas with failed septic systems to connect to sanitary sewer to protect public health and
safety and environmental quality.
74.4 Extend City of Yakima sewer services within the city limits and UGA in accordance with planned
growth
74.5 Invest in water and sewer system infrastructure in areas designated for infill and redevelopment.
Ensure new growth extends infrastructure based on its demand for service.
M
CAPITAL FACILITIES
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
city of Yaki
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CAPITAL FACILITIES
4121 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
74.6 Apply the adopted surface water design manual as the minimum requirement for all development
projects and other actions that could cause or worsen flooding, erosion, water quality, and habitat
problems for both upstream and downstream development
74.7 Encourage community policing, crime prevention through environmental design principles, and
community watch programs to improve public safety for both businesses and residences
7 4 8 Support the capital and operation plans of the Yakima Fire Department to assure response time
objectives are met in the community Encourage continued mutual aid agreements with other fire
districts
749. Provide for municipal, maintenance, and public safety building space reflecting changing needs for
staffing, information technology, and community service needs.
7410 Work in partnership with School Districts to offer quality education to Yakima residents Consider
partnerships with human service and parks and recreation programs and facilities
7411 Regularly prepare a Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan to consider appropriate LOS and
capital needs for six and 20 years.
7412 Promote active and passive park and recreation facilities that promote the community's well-being
through connections to nature and opportunities for activity and healthy lifestyles
7413. Reduce the sold waste stream and support reuse and recycling
7414. Implement efficient street lights that illuminate travel ways for vehicles, pedestrians, and
bicyclists, and assist with crime prevention through environmental design Avoid street light
standards that cause undue light pollution or glare that disrupts natural areas, impacts views, and
lead to higher energy and maintenance costs
7.4 15. Implement infrastructure system rehabilitation and improvements in order to safely manage
services for residents and the environment
7.4 16 Correct infrastructure deficiencies and increase system efficiency
7.4 17 Require concurrency for new development for transportation facilities and invest in transportation
facilities to meet adopted levels of service
CF -12
r r r r r r r r r rl r r r r r r r r r
��� CAPITAL FACILITIES
420 Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
7 4 18 Require adequate facilities and services are available where necessary to support growth
7419 Protect, enhance, and restore natural systems and features for their infrastructure service and
other values
7420 Promote public facility standards and guidelines that address distinct topographical, geologic,
environmental, and other conditions
7.5 Implementation
Yakima's Urban Area Comprehensive Plan is implemented through the actions and investments made by
the City with the support of its residents and stakeholders Some of these actions include regulatory
changes, partnerships, coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, and capital investments The
following implementation items aid in this process
Exhibit 7-3. Capital Facilities Implementation
Functional Plan and Funding Capital improvements for short and long-term
Capital Facilities Plan and associated revenue projections to plan in
Plan for six and 20 -year period balance with needs and resources
Capital Improvement Six-year investment program Capital investment programming over short -
Program updated annually with budget term
8.1 Introduction
The Utilities Element of the Yakima Urban Area Comprehensive Plan provides an overview of the utilities
provided by non -municipal providers. These utilities include natural gas, electricity, and
telecommunications Each private or semi-public utility should plan their system in alignment with mayor
growth decisions and when gaps in capacity are identified
City -provided services are addressed in the Capital Facilities Element and the Capital Facilities Plan
Electric and telephone utilities are generally available throughout the entire urban areas Cable television
and natural gas are generally available within the City limits and available in some areas within
unincorporated portion of the urban area The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
(WUTC) regulates provision of these services and the costs that a utility can recover in order to ensure
consistency and responsibility on the part of the provider The City of Yakima has the authority to
determine appropriate locations for existing and proposed utilities and to regulate this through the use of
the local land use laws
Utilities - Growth Management Act
Each comprehensive plan shall include A
utilities element consisting of the general
location, proposed location, and capacity of
all existing and proposed utilities, including,
but not limited to, electrical lines,
telecommunication lines, and natural gas
lines (RCW 36.70A 070(4))
8.2 Conditions and Trends
The utilities listed in Exhibit 8-1 serve Yakima residents The following section provides descriptions of
these utilities
Exhibit 8-1 Utility Service Providers
t•
Provides supply of electrical 2015 Integrated
ElectricityPacific Power and Light
Company power through transmission Resource Plan
lines Update
Natural Gas Cascade Natural Gas
Corporation
• CenturyLink/Qwest
• Integra
• Charter Spectrum
Telecommunications ■
Cellular services
are provided by a
variety of national
and regional
carriers.
Provides supply of natural gas
from interstate pipelines
Provides transmission of
information through telephone,
radio, cellular telephone, and
cable television
• 2011 Cascade
Natural Gas
Integrated Resource
Plan
Electricity
Pacific Power and Light Company owns and maintains the power grid within the city limits The company,
formed in 1910 from several small electric companies, serves portions of Yakima, Benton, and Kittitas
UTILITIES
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
U-2
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UTILITIES
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
counties within the Yakima Valley (Pacific Power, 2016) The large concentration of agriculture and food
processing in Yakima make up a good portion of energy demand in the City (PacifiCorp, 2015)
Pacific Power provides a 99 97 percent service reliability Currently, the Union Gap substation near
Yakima is being upgraded to enhance reliability, security, and operational flexibility for the transmission
grid that delivers directly to homes and businesses The River Road and Punkin Center substations, which
also serve the Yakima area, are currently being upgraded to increase their capacity. In addition, Pacific
Power has proposed a 230 -kilovolt line that will connect the existing Bonneville Power Administration
power substation near Vantage, Washington to the Pomona Heights substation near Selah, benefiting
customers through increased operation flexibility and security of the transmission grid The timeline for
this project involves construction beginning in late 2016 and service beginning in late 2017. (Pacific
Power, 2016)
Natural Gas
Cascade Natural Gas Corporation provides natural gas service to Yakima and the surrounding area and is
a subsidiary company of MDU Resources Group, Inc, which serves over a million customers with
electricity and natural gas services (MDU Resources Group, Inc., 2014). Cascade serves more than
272,000 customers and 96 communities, concentrated heavily in western and central Washington State
(Cascade natural Gas, 2016). Cascade's production areas are in the Rocky Mountains and western Canada
and the resources are transmitted through interstate pipelines from the production areas to the service
area (Cascade natural Gas, 2016)
The Cascade Natural Gas Corporation is served by Northwest Pipeline, LLC, which is owned and operated
by the energy infrastructure company Williams The pipeline has a peak design capacity of 3 9 million
dekatherms per day, with storage capacity of 14 million dekatherms, and 2,900 miles of pipeline
throughout the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain Region (Williams, 2016)
Telecommunications - Digital
Yakima is served by Centuryl-ink, Integra, and Charter Spectrum (New Vision, 2016)
CenturyLink/Qwest offers Yakima customers internet, phone, and television services
UTILITIES
' Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
• Integra offers internet customers fiber, on -network, multi -service POP, and Ethernet services Fiber is
only available in select areas of the city On -network and multi -service POP are only available in
select buildings
• Charter Spectrum offers Yakima customers television, internet, and phone services
Telecommunications — Cellular
Local telephone service is provided by Qwest, which is now merged with CenturyLink (WUTC, 2016)
Yakima's cellular network is served by Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, T -Mobile, and U S Cellular.
8.3 Goals and Policies
These goals and policies address utility provision in concert with growth For additional goals and policies
addressing conservation and energy see the Energy Element.
GOAL 8.1. PROVIDE ALL UTILITIES AT AN ACCEPTABLE LEVEL OF SERVICE TO ACCOMMODATE
FUTURE DEMANDS.
Policies
8.1 1 Ensure adequate communication between the City and utility providers to coordinate growth and
development of service capacities
GOAL 8.2 ENSURE THAT UTILITIES ARE PROVIDED IN A RELIABLE, SUSTAINABLE, AND SAFE
MANNER
Policies
8.21 Use land use, design, and construction policies and regulations to manage placement and
construction of utilities, encouraging the efficient use of land and co -location of facilities where
feasible
82.2 Ensure that utility facilities are designed, built, and maintained to have a minimal impact on
surrounding neighborhoods.
4W]
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4i0.0 UTILITIES
14% Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
82.3 Educate utility providers and utility consumers on the costs and benefits of emerging technologies
that may provide added sustainability and reliability
82.4 Allow Yakima to be competitive for businesses by encouraging provision of high quality
telecommunications services.
82.5 Support the undergrounding of utility lines in new development and in substantial redevelopment
or major rights-of-way improvements.
8.4 Implementation
Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is implemented through the actions and investments made by the City with
the support of its residents and stakeholders. Some of these actions include regulatory changes,
partnerships, coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, and capital investments The following
implementation items aid in this process.
Exhibit 8-2. Utilities Element Implementation
Capital Facilities Plan Functional plan and funding plan
Land Use Code YMC
Title 15 Regulatory law
Development Review Review process
Cascade Natural Gas
2011 Integrated
Resource Plan
System Plan, updated periodically
• Capital investment in utilities
• Well-designed and appropriately -
located utility facilities
• Review of private provider
facilities
• Natural gas provided in
coordination with growth
_'1 UTILITIES
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Pacific Power 2015
Integrated Resource System Plan, updated periodically
• Power provided in coordination
Plan Update with growth
Local wireless Coordination between City and private • Telecommunication services
telecommunication providers provided in coordination with
service providers growth
U-6
9.1 Introduction
The mission of Yakima Parks and Recreation Division is "to provide and promote community leisure as well
as recreational and cultural activities for all citizens of Yakima " The division offers recreational programs
and activities, maintains facilities that are aesthetic and desirable for use, and enhances well-being of
Yakima's citizens This element, in parallel with the City of Yakima Parks, Recreation, and Open Space
(PROS) Plan, guides the future of park acquisition, development, and management that meets level of
service standards
9.2 Conditions and Trends
Yakima has 401.8 acres of parks and recreation facilities, in addition to some public buildings, such as the
Harman Center and the Henry Beauchamp, Jr Community Center Also available to the public are the
Yakima Greenway, the Yakima Sportsman's State Park, and the Yakima Area Arboretum The City of Yakima
Parks & Recreation Division also offers activities for adults, youth, and seniors through sports programs,
the senior center, summer day camps and other special events Exhibit 9-1 shows a map of Yakima's
existing Neighborhood and Community Parks.
Open Space and Recreation — Growth
Management Act
Retain open space, enhance recreational
opportunities, conserve fish and wildlife
habitat, increase access to natural resource
lands and water, and develop parks and
recreation facilities (RCW 36 70A 020(9))
Ful
Exhibit 9-1. City of Yakima Parks
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The City of Yakima prwdes Parks and Recreation services to —d-ts, community members and visitors The location of the mafonty of these f-Irtres and services am shown on this map however, the City of
Yakima Parks Plan provides more detail on maintenance, upgrades and future park projects The location of these facilities Is used In land use, permit, and development decisions and In concert with the goals,
policies, antl obj.,twes of this Plan 2040
Source City of Yakima, 2016
PARKS & RECREATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
VAIUMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE.
PLAN UPDATE
Yakima Parks
Parks
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Yakima City timlls
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PARKS & RECREATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
9.3 Challenges and Opportunities
Yakima's park system includes an extensive inventory of passive and active recreation facilities Repair and
maintenance of these assets is a priority of the Parks and Recreation Division While there has been
substantial investment in the system in the last 15 years of almost $20 million, there are still parks and
amenities that have aging infrastructure in need of repair or replacement.
Yakima's current park inventory includes 40182 acres of park land Additional land is needed to increase
the available park acreage and opportunities in Yakima. Based upon National Recreation and Park
Association (NRPA) standards, Yakima is deficient in park land by approximately 127 4 acres of
Neighborhood Parks and another 217 8 acres of Community Parks for the 2016 population. Increased
access to existing trail systems, such as the Yakima Greenway and Powerhouse Canal Pathway, is also a
priority.
9.4 Goals and Policies
GOAL 9.1 MAINTAIN EXISTING PARKS AND RECREATION FACILITIES AT A LEVEL THAT MEETS THE
PUBLIC'S DESIRE FOR SAFE, CLEAN, AND ENJOYABLE PARKS.
GOAL 9 2. DEVELOP EXISTING CITY PARKS AND OPEN SPACE AREAS TO MEET THE CURRENT AND
FUTURE DEMANDS OF BOTH INDIVIDUAL CITY NEIGHBORHOODS AND THE COMMUNITY
AT LARGE.
GOAL 9.3. ESTABLISH AND IMPLEMENT A LONG-RANGE PLAN FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF PARKS,
OPEN SPACE, GREEN BELTS AND PATHWAYS WITHIN THE CITY OF YAKIMA AND THE
GREATER URBAN GROWTH AREA.
Policies
93 1. Explore opportunities for leveraging local money for park development through both public and
private grant funding.
9 3 2 Establish an ongoing six-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for Parks and Recreation facilities
NRPA Standards
■ Neighborhood/Mini Parks 2
G
acres/1,000 population
■ Community Parks: 5 acres/1,000
j population
3
PARKS & RECREATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
• Fund capital improvements through the City's general fund, parks cash balance and state, federal,
and other grants.
• Promote private, public and non-profit partnerships for capital improvements to parks
GOAL 9 4. EXPAND THE PRESENCE OF ART THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY, PARTICULARLY IN
PUBLIC SPACES AND PARKS TO ENHANCE THE COMMUNITY AND ITS QUALITY OF LIFE
Policies
941. Foster relationships with local arts organizations to encourage the addition of art in public spaces
and parks
GOAL 9 5. ESTABLISH A PRIORITY FOR FUTURE LAND ACQUISITION AND PARK DEVELOPMENT
BASED ON NEIGHBORHOOD AS WELL AS THE OVERALL CITY'S NEEDS.
Policies
95 1 Draft a City standard for public open and green space
9 5 2 Develop and maintain an up-to-date park land acquisition plan that targets and sets priorities for
future park acquisitions
• Review the City and its neighborhoods and identify needs according to that standard
• Meet with local neighborhood associations and residents to identify their needs and interests
• Consider safe pedestrian and bicycle access in future land acquisition and park development.
GOAL 9.6 CREATE A UNIQUE AND POSITIVE IMAGE FOR THE CITY THROUGH ESTABLISHMENT AND
DEVELOPMENT OF GREEN BELTS AND PATHWAYS WITHIN THE CITY OF YAKIMA.
Policies
96 1 Continue to cooperate and share resources to develop and expand the Yakima Greenway.
96.2 Work with the city Bicycle and Pedestrian Pathway Committee to use existing irrigation canal
rights-of-way and Yakima Valley Transportation (YVT) corridors for pathways
PR -4
�t�ra
`'' PARKS & RECREATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
9.63 Ensure that bikeways and pedestrian pathways are made a consideration in surface transportation
planning for the City of Yakima
9.64 Establish landscaping standards for implementation along mayor city streets, arterials and city
pathways at urban gateways that are compatible with area uses and maintainable by existing city
resources
96.5 Incorporate, whenever possible, greenbelts and pathways into all future residential, commercial,
and industrial developments and keep these trails, as much as possible, separate from streets and
arterials.
96.6 Establish connectivity with the William 0 Douglas Trail portion which goes through the City of
Yakima
96.7 Explore possibilities for establishing pathway connections between existing and future parks
GOAL 9 7. DEVELOP INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO CREATING NEW PARK FACILITIES
Policies
9 7 1 Promote private, public and not profit partnerships for capital improvements to parks
972. Encourage creation of a centrally located outdoor performing arts stage or facility through a public,
private and/or business partnership.
973. Encourage development of non-traditional recreation venues including a water park, BMX track,
skate parks, disc golf, and other facilities for emerging sports and activities.
9 7 4 Use city cultural and historical landmarks as a cornerstone for park development whenever
possible
9 7 5 Establish level of service standards for city park properties to provide guidelines for their
appropriate use by the public and for special events
PARKS & RECREATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
GOAL 9.8. CREATE AND IMPLEMENT A LONG-RANGE PLAN AND PROGRAM FOR THE PRESERVATION
OF PRIME OPEN SPACE AREAS IN OR ADJACENT TO THE CITY OF YAKIMA.
Policies
9 8 1 Support continued expansion of the Yakima Greenway
9 8 2 Support the fostering of a strong relationship between the Greenway and abutting city
neighborhoods
9 8 3 Advocate incorporation of greenbelts into future residential, commercial, and industrial
development to minimize impacts of locating potentially incompatible land uses next to one
another
9.84 Preserve open space through means other than ownership, such as transfer of development rights,
tax obligation relief and land donations to non-profit open space preservation organizations
9.5 Implementation
Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is implemented through the actions and investments made by the City with
the support of its residents and stakeholders Some of these actions include regulatory changes,
partnerships, coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, and capital investments The following
implementation items aid in this process
Exhibit 9-2 Parks and Recreation Implementation
Capital Facilities Plan Functional plan and funding plan, updated ■
p Capital investment in parks
periodically
■ Goals and policies to guide future of
parks
Parks and Recreation Maintain grant eligibility consistent
Functional plan, updated periodically
Comprehensive Plan with the Washington State Recreation
and Conservation Office (RCO)
requirements
P! PR -6
fix
4� PARKS & RECREATION
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Bicycle Master Plan Strategic plan for bicycle circulation improved bicycle network
10.1 Introduction
The primary components of any environment are the air, water, soil, and living organisms, such as plants
and animals How these components interact with and are modified by each other determines the
character of the environment, and how well it meets the needs and desires of the living organisms The
Natural Environment Element of the Yakima Comprehensive Plan summarizes the existing conditions of
the City of Yakima with respect to those components, and identifies future goals for management
10.2 Conditions and Trends
Following is a brief description of the components of Yakima's natural environment based on the Existing
Conditions Report (2017)
Geology
The Yakima Valley can be viewed as part of a larger geologic structural system that is underlain with folded
flow layers of a thick sequence of Yakima basalt. The upper basalt layer is primarily composed of
Natural Environment — Growth
Management Act Goals
Open space and recreation. Retain
open space, enhance recreational
opportunities, conserve fish and
wildlife habitat, increase access to
natural resource lands and water,
and develop parks and recreation
facilities (RCW 36.70A.020(9))
Environment. Protect the
environment and enhance the
state's high quality of life,
including air and water quality,
and the availability of water (RCW
36 70A 020(10))
sedimentary rocks of the Ellensburg formation, up to 1,000 feet thick These rocks are then overlain by
cemented basalt gravel up to 400 feet thick comprising the second layer The valley floor and final layer
are composed of alluvial sand and gravel, up to 30 feet thick
Water Quality
Different measures of water quality are important depending on whether human health or the health of
other terrestrial or aquatic organisms is being considered For example, temperature and dissolved oxygen
are critical characteristics that determine suitability of the water for certain fish, but are not critical to
human health On the other hand, high fecal coliform levels can be a health concern for humans, but have
little to no effect on fish In the City of Yakima, Impervious surfaces and Industrial, commercial, residential,
and agricultural uses can generate or convey a variety of pollutants, such as animal wastes, oils, fertilizers
and herbicides, and metals, to Yakima's streams and lakes These substances can damage groundwater,
lakes, rivers, and streams, disrupt human use of these waters, or Interfere with the behavior and reduce
the survival of aquatic life. The loss of riparian vegetation and the associated shade that it provides has
also had an impact on water temperatures
As part of the federal Clean Water Act compliance, the Washington Department of Ecology Implements a
testing protocol and tracking procedures for Impairments of waters In the state Six waterbodies in the City
have been documented as exceeding standards for one or more parameters (Exhibit 10-1).
Exhibit 10-1. Water Quality Impairment
Myron Lake — Ammonia -N
5 — Polluted waters that require a Naches River —Temperature, pH
TMDL Shaw Creek — Bacteria (fecal coliform)
Wide Hollow Creek — Temperature, bacteria (fecal coliform)
Yakima River - pH
4c — Impaired by a non -pollutant Rotary Lake — invasive aquatic species (Eurasian water-milfoll)
2 — Waters of concern Wide Hollow Creek — pH, dissolved oxygen
Yakima River — pH, temperature
Source Washington Department of Ecology, 2012
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
NE -2
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I � * NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
In 2015, the City continued to meet its obligations under the federal Clean Water Act by developing the
Storm water Management Program for City of Yakima, and separating from the Regional Stormwater Policy
Group led by Yakima County This local program will ensure that the City is compliant with its National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Eastern Washington Phase II Municipal Stormwater
Permit, and plans and implements performance measures that reduce pollutants in stormwater to the
"maximum extent practicable "
The City also regulates construction and post -construction stormwater management under Chapters 7.82
and 7.83 of the Yakima Municipal Code These chapters require use of the latest edition of Washington
Department of Ecology's Stormwater Management Manual for Eastern Washington.
Air Quality
An airshed is defined as "a volume of air, bounded by geographical and/or meteorological constraints,
within which activities discharge contaminants " The airshed for the City of Yakima, as defined by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is the Yakima Basin According to the Yakima Regional Clean Air
Agency, "the air quality in Yakima County is fresh, clean and healthy most of the year, yet at certain times
it faces challenges " Although air quality currently meets federal and state air quality standards that has
not always been the case. After years of planning and analysis, coordination between Yakima County and
incorporated cities, and implementation of targeted projects, the urban areas of Yakima County were
removed from non -attainment status for carbon monoxide and particulate matter less than 10 microns in
diameter (PMlo)
In 2014, the Yakima Regional Clean Air Agency developed a plan that strives to ensure that Yakima County
can maintain compliance with the standards for PM2 s concentrations. These smaller particulates pose a
particular health risk to those with lung and heart problems, the elderly, and the young The greatest
outputs are from residential heating (wood -burning stoves), dust on gravel roads, and tilling of fields
Because of local topography and climate conditions, the concentrations and associated health problems
can be most severe in late -fall and winter The plan combines a number of regulatory and voluntary tools
to achieve reduction targets for PM2.s emissions
Critical Areas
General conditions in the City of Yakima for each of the critical area types are described below
Frequently Flooded Areas
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has mapped the floodplains for the Yakima and
Naches Rivers, as well as Wide Hollow, Bachelor, Spring, and Shaw Creeks (see Exhibit 10-2—Floodplains)
Exhibit 10-2. Floodplains — City of Yakima
... brm wyrN dra m[°.m. .dr Mae.• ..AVr'T, rerrplr'xMY N`irr YarpemNrvK . i r.xy�M a...../.ry rm
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Source City of Yakima GIS 2016
YAIUMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN UPDATE
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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The City regulates development in or near these areas to ensure compatibility with surrounding properties,
and to prevent an increase in risk to upstream or downstream neighbors or the natural functions of
floodplains As currently mapped, eight percent of the City is in a designated floodplain The majority of
the floodplains are associated with the Yakima and Naches Rivers on the east and north sides of the City,
and are bounded by a levee system The smaller streams in the southern and western portions of the City
generally have narrow floodplains, except in some of the flat, less-developed agricultural areas, parks, and
around the airport
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas
As defined in Washington Administrative Code 365-190-030, fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas
are "areas that serve a critical role in sustaining needed habitats and species for the functional integrity of
the ecosystem, and which, if altered, may reduce the likelihood that the species will persist over the long
term These areas may include, but are not limited to, rare or vulnerable ecological systems, communities,
and habitat or habitat elements including seasonal ranges, breeding habitat, winter range, and movement
corridors; and areas with high relative population density or species richness." Although largely urbanized,
the City of Yakima still has habitat for fish and wildlife distributed in parks and other preserved open spaces,
on agricultural lands, in underdeveloped or vacant spaces, and in and along 51.4 miles of stream corridors
and several lakes (see Exhibit 10-3 — Wetlands and Streams).
The WDFW has classified certain important fish and wildlife habitats and species as "priority habitats" and
"priority species" to ensure they are considered in land use planning and management The majority of the
priority habitats inside the City of Yakima's jurisdiction are wetlands and high quality riparian zones
associated with the Yakima and Naches Rivers, and with Wide Hollow Creek (see Exhibit 10-4 - Wildlife)
Other types of priority habitat in Yakima are designated as "urban natural open space" and waterfowl
concentration areas
Significant wetlands inside the City include those wetlands associated with the Yakima and Naches Rivers
and Wide Hollow Creek Additional small wetlands are associated with the other streams (see Exhibit 10-3
— Wetlands and Streams) A number of artificial lakes with groundwater connections to the Naches and
Yakima Rivers also provide important habitat for birds, and several are stocked for recreational fishing by
WDFW
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Exhibit 10-3. Wetlands and Streams — City of Yakima
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
YAKIMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE.
PI —N UPDATE
Wetlands and Streams
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r/aNnratae hlarn to hn*evil ap rnYa C.<ana ru<yrM 4`1Wnw,vM•Mirt. w'1 uiNN a n. nm NnrY Prr+anrn-, Mpic«<r (rMn^ M I M tIe[a`Nnr er t--&, nM ai—, s.a U,I lhM rru+iiFrrMr I crrlve/�nn nlny uaiyr«
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Source City of Yakima GIS 2016
T2
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
YAKIMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE.
PI —N UPDATE
Wetlands and Streams
~1-01. Caapory
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r/aNnratae hlarn to hn*evil ap rnYa C.<ana ru<yrM 4`1Wnw,vM•Mirt. w'1 uiNN a n. nm NnrY Prr+anrn-, Mpic«<r (rMn^ M I M tIe[a`Nnr er t--&, nM ai—, s.a U,I lhM rru+iiFrrMr I crrlve/�nn nlny uaiyr«
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Source City of Yakima GIS 2016
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4 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Exhibit 10-4. Wildlife — City of Yakima
nig
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P
x. errlrnan :,,oa nl, e.rt wrunk nXta nXrwrrnX...a l,nem.m.. m.Rr. N,ek:1tm »raw,.•.IX,rmn,nkU+Yry.mn.M. IgpX aw.�'nrtnr.FX,-w..nelw+e.t.Xannotawar a»avur I.r. m.v .,ur.nrtbn. y -..e }mm mX+v rr�
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Source City of Yakima, 2016
YA ,IMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN UPDATE
Wildlife
BA -D EAGLE
RMARIAN rov=s
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) Fisheries and the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service has designated, or listed, several fish species that
live in one or more City of Yakima waterways Additional fish species are designated by WDFW as priority
species. Exhibit 10-5 identifies the sensitive fish species documented within the City's aquatic areas
Exhibit 10-5 Sensitive Fish Species Mapped in the City's Streams and Rivers
Chinook salmon
Threatened
Candidate, Priority
Yakima River, Naches River
Steelhead trout
Yakima River, Naches River, Cowiche Creek, Wide Hollow Creek, Threatened
Candidate, Priority
Bachelor Creek
Bull trout
Threatened
Candidate, Priority
Yakima River, Naches River
Coho salmon Species of
Yakima River, Naches River, Cowiche Creek Concern
Priority
Cutthroat trout
Yakima River, Wide Hollow Creek None
Priority
Rainbow trout
Yakima River, Naches River, Cowiche Creek, Wide Hollow Creek, None
Candidate, Priority
Spring Creek, Bachelor Creek
Source WDFW, 2016
In addition to fish, other priority species in the City of Yakima include a number of birds, such as bald eagle,
wood duck, common loon, and great blue heron, many of which breed along the
Yakima or Naches Rivers;
sharp -tailed snake and ring-necked snake, and Townsend's ground squirrel
Wetlands
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has mapped and classified wetlands in the City as part of its National
Wetland Inventory (see Exhibit 10-3 —Wetlands and Streams). Most of these wetlands are large complexes
associated with the Yakima and Naches Rivers, although smaller wetlands are scattered throughout the
NE -8
<A
lil
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
City along the smaller streams and in other localized depressions. Mapping may underrepresent the area
of wetlands due to the date of inventories and the nature of the data that is not comprehensively collected
by federal, state, or local agencies.
Geologically Hazardous Areas
Geologically hazardous areas include areas of erosion hazard, landslide hazard, seismic hazard, and other
hazard, including volcanic and channel migration zones The primary purpose of regulating geologically
hazardous areas is to reduce the risk of harm to people or property, although there are secondary
consequences of such hazard events on fish, wildlife, and their habitats
In the City, three types of landslide hazards have been mapped intermediate risk oversteepened slopes,
high risk oversteepened slopes, and channel migration zones that are associated with shoreline
waterbodies (Exhibit 10-6 — Geologic Hazards)
In Yakima, the high risk steep slopes are mainly isolated in the City's north and northwestern boundaries
along West Powerhouse Road, Prospect Way, and Canyon Creek Road. Moderate risk steep slopes are
found nearby near Scenic Drive and Englewood Crest Drive
Exhibit 10-6 Geologic Hazards — City of Yakima
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ra dM llaateN .raw'mr bnt arallanla data .Yralna rat r ntfni n.. n•Marry lxrPM.. a mA,* ,,—.-.I ly pai r . MV taur prMn~tf 7Mhkx.rlmc rr t— —aMM•avalth aINrmep nf•vmi•- —d fmm many arii�n
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Source City of Yakima, 2016
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
YAKIMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE,
PLAN UPDATE,
Geologk Hazards
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Critical Aquifer Recharge Areas
Critical aquifer recharge areas are lands where surface waters or pollutants can infiltrate into groundwater
that is utilized for drinking water The City's drinking water comes from the Naches River water treatment
facility, but the backup supply comes from four municipal groundwater wells that can pump a combined
11,050 gallons per minute. Once groundwater is contaminated it can be difficult and costly to clean. In
some cases, the quality of groundwater in an aquifer is inextricably linked to its recharge area To date, the
City has identified five discrete areas that have high vulnerability to contamination (see Exhibit 10-7—
Aquifers) that cover about 8 percent of the city limits. The Washington Department of Health maintains
updated maps of wellhead protection zones around drinking water sources on its website
Exhibit 10-7. Aquifers — City of Yakima
7
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Source City of Yakima GIS 2016
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
YAIQMA 2040
COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN UPDATE
Aquifers
<i Aqufer H10 Vunerabllrly Areae
WPA 6 Month Tme of Travel
WPA 1 Year Tme of Travel
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■ WPA 10 Year Tme of Travel
WPAAas10neA Tme of Travei
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4 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
10.3 Challenges and Opportunities
Environmental quality is an essential element of the City's livability By considering both the natural and
built environment in planning for the future, the City of Yakima has the opportunity to create a sustainable
urban environment that provides clean air and water, habitat for wildlife, and comfortable and secure
places for people to live, work and recreate. Through policy, decisions and actions, the City of Yakima will
continue to seek balance between various environmental goals and economic development, allowing
multiple objectives to be met
The City has been a participant in regional efforts to study and develop solutions to address the recent
water flow problems in the Yakima River Basin, which has culminated in the development of a proposed
Integrated Water Resource Management Plan As stated in the plan, "The goals of the Integrated Plan are
to protect, mitigate, and enhance fish and wildlife habitat, provide increased operational flexibility to
manage instream flows to meet ecological objectives, and improve the reliability of the water supply for
irrigation, municipal supply, and domestic uses." These goals are consistent with the GMA, the City's critical
areas regulations and SMP, and the desires of the citizens of Yakima to have a healthy ecological system
that can serve multiple needs.
10.4 Goals and Policies
GOAL 10 1. ENHANCE AND PROTECT SURFACE, STORM, AND GROUNDWATER QUALITY AND
QUANTITY.
Policies
10 1 1. Implement the City's stormwater program and require use of appropriate stormwater manuals or
best management practices for the design, construction, and operation of developments or
activities which could alter surface or ground water quantity or quality.
10 12 Continue to implement and refine water conservation programs
10 13 For the multiple purposes of ensuring sufficient and sustainable supplies of water for fish habitat,
agricultural and industrial needs, and drinking water, support implementation of the Yakima River
Basin Integrated Water Resource Management Plan
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
10.14 Continue implementing the City's local Wellhead Protection Program, which includes education,
inter -agency coordination, and regulation, to prevent contamination of public groundwater
supplies
10.15 Update standards to allow and encourage use of low impact development techniques and other
construction methods that offset or mitigate the effects of increased impervious areas
GOAL 10 2 PROTECT AND ENHANCE AIR QUALITY.
Policies
10 2 1 Cooperate with local, State and federal air pollution control agencies and comply with applicable
regulations that govern air pollutants during land development, construction and operation
102.2 Develop a land use pattern and associated infrastructure that encourages trip reduction, minimizes
vehicular emissions, and facilitates use of alternate modes of transportation
GOAL 10 3. MANAGE FLOODPLAINS TO PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY, AND TO SUPPORT
ECOLOGICAL FUNCTION
Policies
1031 Protect natural drainage systems associated with floodways and floodplains through application
of regulations based on best available science
1032. Ensure adequate protection of life and property from flood events in floodways and floodplains
through application of appropriate limitations on and mitigation requirements for development,
and implementation of Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plans, when available
1033. Emphasize non-structural methods in planning for flood prevention and damage reduction
1034. Require use of best management practices to minimize adverse stormwater impacts generated by
the removal of vegetation and alteration of landforms that increase impervious surface areas.
1035 Within frequently flooded areas, encourage and support the retention of natural open spaces or
land uses, such as parks, that can maintain important hydrologic function with minimal risk to
property damage from floodwaters
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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GOAL 10.4. PRESERVE AND ENHANCE TERRESTRIAL AND AQUATIC HABITATS TO MAINTAIN VIABLE
POPULATIONS OF PLANTS AND ANIMALS.
Policies
104.1 Maintain and implement a system of environmental regulations based on best available science
that will protect fish and wildlife species and habitat with special local, state or federal status,
giving special consideration to conservation or protection measures necessary to preserve or
enhance anadromous fisheries
1042 Continue participating in and supporting the work of the regional Yakima Basin Fish and Wildlife
Recovery Board to plan and implement fish and wildlife habitat restoration
1043. Locate, design, construct, and operate development to first avoid, and then minimize and mitigate
adverse impacts to the functions and values of streams, wetlands, and other fish and wildlife
habitat conservation areas
1044. Promote stream, wetlands, and other fish and wildlife habitat conservation areas protection
through education and cooperation with the Greenway Foundation, Cowiche Canyon
Conservancy, the Trust for Public Land, and other similar organizations.
GOAL 10.5 MANAGE USE AND DEVELOPMENT IN GEOLOGICALLY HAZARDOUS AREAS TO PROTECT
PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY.
Policies
1051. Apply and enforce current and future environmental regulations to protect and promote public
health and safety from geologic hazards during construction and operation.
1052. Locate development within the most environmentally suitable and naturally stable portions of the
proposed property.
1053 Classify and designate areas on which development should be prohibited, conditioned, or
otherwise controlled because of danger from geological hazards
10.5 Implementation
Environmental protection and enhancement, based on "Best Available Science" (as defined in the GMA),
are important factors in the City of Yakima's land use planning, zoning and development regulations
Development that does not reasonably avoid or accommodate critical areas will be required to provide
mitigation for potential impacts to prevent a net loss of function and value The GMA requires updating of
critical area regulations as necessary to maintain consistency with State law As part of that review, the
City of Yakima will evaluate Chapter 15.27, last updated in 2008, and amend as needed
In addition to critical areas regulations, which are part of the City's Land Use Code, the following items aid
in the implementation of this element of the Comprehensive Plan.
Exhibit 10-8 Natural Environment Element Implementation
Land Use Code — YMC Titles 15 and 17
Development Review
City of Yakima Stormwater Management Program
2015
2012-2017 Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plans
Yakima Regional Stormwater Group
Regulatory law that addresses critical areas and
shoreline protection
Review Process that ensures critical areas and
shoreline protection
Plan, updated periodically, that minimizes adverse
effects on water quality and quantity
Plan, updated periodically, that strives to balance
active and passive uses of the City's more natural areas
Plans that include short- and long-term approaches to
balancing the competing needs of new and existing
development with the environment
Coordination with Yakima County, Union Gap and
Sunnyside to perform permit compliance under the
Department of Ecology's Phase II NPDES Stormwater
Permit
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
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Purpose and Relationship of the Shoreline Management Act to the Growth
Management Act
The Growth Management Act (GMA) was amended in 1995 to add the goals and policies of the state
Shoreline Management Act (SMA) as one of the goals of the GMA The purpose of the SMA is stated in
RCW 90 58 020 as follows:
'The legislature finds that the shorelines of the state are among the most valuable and fragile of its natural
resources and that there is great concern throughout the state relating to their utilization, protection,
restoration, and preservation. In addition, it finds that ever increasing pressures of additional uses are being
placed on the shorelines necessitating increased coordination in the management and development of the
shorelines of the state The legislature further finds that much of the shorelines of the state and the uplands
adjacent thereto are in private ownership, that unrestricted construction on the privately owned or publicly
owned shorelines of the state is not in the best public interest, and therefore, coordinated planning is
necessary in order to protect the public interest associated with the shorelines of the state while, at the same
time, recognizing and protecting private property rights consistent with the public interest. There is,
therefore, a clear and urgent demand for a planned, rational, and concerted effort, jointly performed by
federal, state, and local governments, to prevent the inherent harm in an uncoordinated and piecemeal
development of the state's shorelines
The Growth Management Act considers
the goals and policies of a Shoreline
Master Program (SMP) developed
under the Shoreline Management Act
to be an element of the Comprehensive
Plan, and the SMP development
regulations to be a component of a
jurisdiction's GMA development
regulations
This Chapter presents the SMP goals
and policies completed in fall 2014 and
adopted by both the City of Yakima and
the State of Washington Department of
Ecology
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
It is the policy of the state to provide for the management of the shorelines of the state by planning for and
fostering all reasonable and appropriate uses This policy is designed to insure the development of these
shorelines in a manner which, while allowing for limited reduction of rights of the public in the navigable
waters, will promote and enhance the public interest This policy contemplates protecting against adverse
effects to the public health, the land and its vegetation and wildlife, and the waters of the state and their
aquatic life, while protecting generally public rights of navigation and corollary rights incidental thereto. ***
In the implementation of this policy the public's opportunity to enjoy the physical and aesthetic qualities of
natural shorelines of the state shall be preserved to the greatest extent feasible consistent with the overall
best interest of the state and the people generally To this end uses shall be preferred which are consistent
with control of pollution and prevention of damage to the natural environment, orore unique to ordependent
upon use of the state's shoreline Alterations of the natural condition of the shorelines of the state, in those
limited instances when authorized, shall be given priority for single-family residences and their appurtenant
structures, ports, shoreline recreational uses including but not limited to parks, marinas, piers, and other
improvements facilitating public access to shorelines of the state, industrial and commercial developments
which are particularly dependent on their location on or use of the shorelines of the state and other
development that will provide an opportunity for substantial numbers of the people to enjoy the shorelines
of the state. Alterations of the natural condition of the shorelines and shorelands of the state shall be
recognized by the department Shorelines and shorelands of the state shall be appropriately classified and
these classifications shall be revised when circumstances warrant regardless of whether the change in
circumstances occurs through man-made causes or natural causes Any areas resulting from alterations of
the natural condition of the shorelines and shorelands of the state no longer meeting the definition of
"shorelines of the state" shall not be subject to the provisions of chapter 90 58 RCW.
Permitted uses in the shorelines of the state shall be designed and conducted in a manner to minimize, insofar
as practical, any resultant damage to the ecology and environment of the shoreline area and any interference
with the public's use of the water "
The Shoreline Management Act policy has been refined to include provisions for uses along the shoreline,
public access to shorelines, preservation and restoration of the shoreline resources and ecology,
promotion of long-term over short-term benefit, and other actions to promote the state-wide interest of
appropriate use of shoreline over local interest
In addition to incorporating the state SMA goals and policies, the Growth Management Act also provides
that "the goals and policies of a shoreline master program for a county or city . shall be considered an
element of the county or city's comprehensive plan." The City of Yakima's Shoreline Master Program (SMP)
was originally approved by the Washington State Department of Ecology in June 1974 In 2013, the SMP
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was updated consistent with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Chapter 173-26, State master
program approval/amendment procedures and master program guidelines (Guidelines) The Guidelines
are administered by the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology) The SMP becomes effective
14 days after conclusion of both the City's SMP development and adoption process followed by Ecology's
review and approval process.
Profile of Shoreline Jurisdiction in Yakima
The entire shoreline jurisdiction within the City limits and Urban Growth Area (UGA), including
unincorporated territory and the waterbodies themselves, amounts to approximately 1,696 acres (818
acres non-UGA, 878 acres UGA) The City of Yakima has two rivers, one stream, and three lakes which are
identified as "shorelines of the state": the Yakima River, the Naches River, Cowiche Creek, Willow Lake,
Lake Aspen, and Rotary Lake Buchanan Lake and its shorelands (approximately 76 acres) will be considered
part of the City's shoreline jurisdiction when the Washington Department of Natural Resources Surface
Mine Reclamation Permit lapses or is terminated, or when the City receives a permit application for new
development on or uses of Buchanan Lake
In accordance with state law, the jurisdiction of Yakima's Shoreline Master Program encompasses the
shoreline waterbodies, land within 200 feet of the ordinary high water mark of these waterways, and their
floodways, certain portions of 100 -year floodplains and channel migration zones, and associated wetlands
Development of Goals and Policies
The goals and policies presented here are categorized according to Master Program elements as mandated
by the Shoreline Management Act (SMA). The elements are identified in the SMA as generic classes of
activities for which goals and policies shall be developed and systematically applied to different shoreline
uses in these classes, when deemed appropriate by the local jurisdiction.
The general goal and policy statements found within each element of the Master Program are intended to
provide the policy basis for administration of the City of Yakima Shoreline Master Program All elements
are equal in their importance and no element has a greater standing or relevance than any other element
The Master Program Elements are as follows.
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
A. Shoreline use element for considering
1. The proposed general distribution and general location and extent of the use on shorelines and
adjacent land areas, including, but not limited to, housing, business, industry, transportation,
agriculture, natural resources, recreation, education, public buildings and grounds, and other
categories of public and private uses of the land,
2. The pattern of distribution and location requirements of water uses including, but not limited to,
aquaculture, recreation, and transportation, and
3. Establishing the importance of locating water -oriented uses, particularly those that are water -
dependent, within the shoreline jurisdiction area.
B. Economic development element for the location and design of industries, transportation facilities,
port facilities, tourist facilities, commerce and other developments that are particularly dependent
on their location on or use of the shorelines of the state,
C Public access element for provision for public access to shorelines, particularly publicly owned areas,
D. Recreational element for preserving and enlarging recreational opportunities including but not
limited to parks, beaches, and recreational areas,
E. Circulation element consisting of the general location and extent of existing and proposed mayor
thoroughfares, transportation routes, terminals, and other public utilities and facilities, all correlated
with the shoreline use element,
F. Conservation element for the preservation of natural resources, including but not limited to scenic
vistas, aesthetics, and critical areas' functions and values, fisheries and wildlife protection, and
shoreline ecological functions;
G. Historical/cultural/scientific/and educational element for protecting and restoring buildings, sites
and areas having historic, archaeological, cultural, scientific, or educational values, and
H. Flood control element forgiving consideration to the state-wide interest in the prevention and
minimization of flood damages, and construction, modification, and restoration of flood -damaged
structures consistent with FEMA Standards.
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
General Shoreline Planning Sub -element
10.3.1. Implement the general policies and goals of the Shoreline Management Act as listed below
(WAC 173-26-176(3))
10.3.1 1 Utilize Shorelines for economically productive uses that are particularly dependent on
Shoreline location or use
10.3 12 Utilize Shorelines and the waters they encompass for public access and recreation.
10.3 1 3. Protect and restore the ecological functions of Shorelines.
10.3 14. Protect the public right of navigation and corollary uses of waters of the state.
103 1 5 Protect and restore buildings and sites having historic, cultural, and educational value
103 1 6 Plan for public facilities and uses correlated with other shoreline uses
103 17. Prevent and minimize flood damages.
103 1 8. Recognize and protect private property rights
103 19. Preferentially accommodate single-family uses
Coordinate shoreline management with other relevant local, state, and federal programs
10.3.2. Protection measures for Shorelines of Statewide Significance should follow the Shoreline
Management Act principles in order of preference as listed below (RCW 90 58 020)
10 3 2 1. Recognize and protect the state-wide interest over local interest,
10 3 2 2. Preserve the natural character of the shoreline;
1032.3. Result in long term over short term benefit;
1032.4. Protect the resource and ecology of the shoreline,
1032.5. Increase public access to publicly owned areas of the shorelines;
1032.6. Increase recreational opportunities for the public in the shoreline;
1032.7. Provide for any other element as defined in RCW 90 58.100 deemed appropriate or
necessary.
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
10.3.3. Establish a system of shoreline uses that
103.3 1 Gives preference to uses with minimal impacts that are dependent upon their
proximity to the water,
103.3 2 Is consistent with the control of pollution and prevention of damage to the natural
environment,
10333 Protects the public's health, safety, and welfare, ecological functions, and property
rights; and
10334 Establishes conditional uses to provide extra protection for the shoreline
10.3.4. Assure that new shoreline development in the City of Yakima is consistent with a viable
pattern of use suitable to the character and physical limitations of the land and water
10.3.5. Encourage sound management of renewable and nonrenewable natural resources
10.3.6. In general when determining the order of preference between conflicts of shoreline uses
the following order should be observed
1036.1 Water -dependent commercial uses are preferred over nonwater-dependent
commercial uses,
1036.2 Water -related and water -enjoyment commercial uses are preferred over nonwater-
oriented commercial uses; and
10.363 Nonwater-oriented commercial uses should only be allowed in limited situations
Shoreline Environment Designations
10.3.7. The City of Yakima's Shorelines are classified into specific environment designations based
on existing and future land use patterns, as well as the biological and the physical character
of the shoreline Land uses and activities which are permitted within these environment
designations should be limited to those land uses that are consistent with the character of
the identified environment designation.
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
High Intensity Environment Policies
10.3.8. High Intensity Environment The purpose of the "High Intensity" environment is to provide
for high-intensity water -oriented commercial, transportation, and industrial uses while
protecting existing ecological functions and restoring ecological functions in areas that have
been previously degraded
10.3.9. Specific criteria for designation of the High Intensity environment include areas or
properties that:
1039.1. Presently support high intensity land uses including commercial, industrial, urban
recreational, transportation, or high-intensity water -oriented uses.
1039.2. Are planned to accommodate urban expansion of uses listed in 10.3 9 1.
10.3.10. Water -oriented commercial, industrial, and recreation uses should be given high priority in
the High Intensity environment First priority should be given to water -dependent uses
Second priority should be given to water -related and water -enjoyment uses. Nonwater-
oriented uses should not be allowed except as part of mixed-use developments Nonwater-
oriented uses may also be allowed in limited situations where they do not conflict with or
limit opportunities for water -oriented uses or on sites where there is no direct access to the
shoreline. Public benefits such as ecological restoration or public access may be required in
association with nonwater-oriented development.
10.3.11. New stand-alone residential uses in the High Intensity environment should be discouraged
10.3.12. When considering shoreline environment designation amendment proposals, full utilization
of existing high intensity areas should be achieved before further expansion of intensive
development is allowed
10.3.13. Development in the High Intensity designation should assure no net loss of shoreline
ecological functions as a result of new development Where applicable, new development
should include environmental cleanup and restoration of the shoreline to comply with any
relevant state and federal law
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
10.3.14. Where feasible, visual and physical public access should be required as part of development
in the High Intensity designation unless it already exists to serve the development or other
safety, security, or fragile environmental conditions apply
10.3.15. Aesthetic objectives should be implemented by means such as sign control regulations,
appropriate development siting, screening and architectural standards, and maintenance of
natural vegetative separation.
Essential Public Facilities Policies
10.3.16. The purpose of the Essential Public Facilities environment is to support planning and
maintenance of existing essential public facilities
10.3.17. Assign an "Essential Public Facilities” environment designation to lands containing those
facilities that are typically difficult to site or relocate, such as state or regional
transportation facilities and waste water handling facilities
10.3.18. Essential public facilities and their accessory or supporting uses are allowed in the Essential
Public Facilities environment
10.3.19. Allowed new development in the Essential Public Facilities designation should assure no net
loss of shoreline ecological functions
10.3.20. Where applicable, new and expanded development should include environmental cleanup
and restoration of the shoreline to comply with any relevant state and federal law
10.321. Expansion and improvement of existing facilities should be allowed, with mitigation
sequencing applied to avoid and then minimize adverse impacts to the extent consistent
with the specific facility and public needs, with mitigation required for any remaining
adverse impacts.
Shoreline Residential Environment Policies
10.3.22. The purpose of the "Shoreline Residential" environment is to accommodate residential
development and appurtenant structures that are consistent with the SMP An additional
purpose is to provide appropriate public access and recreational uses
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Till
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
10.3.23. Assign a "Shoreline Residential" environment designation to areas that are predominantly
single-family or multifamily residential development or are planned and platted for
residential development.
10.3.24. Development standards addressing the development envelope, water quality, and
vegetation should assure no net loss of shoreline ecological functions, taking into account
the environmental limitations and sensitivity of the shoreline area, the level of
infrastructure and services available, and other comprehensive planning considerations.
10.3.25. Multifamily and multi -lot residential and recreational developments should provide public
access and joint use for community recreational facilities
10.3.26. Access, utilities, and public services should be available and adequate to serve existing
needs and/or planned future development
10.3.27. Commercial development should be limited to water -oriented uses and allowed only when
the underlying zoning permits such uses
Floodway / Channel Migration Zone (CMZ) Environment Policies
10.3.28. The Floodway/CMZ environment is intended to protect the water areas, islands, associated
overflow channels, and channel migration areas. This environment provides for the
movement of the river within its floodplain, and emphasizes preservation of the natural
hydraulic, geologic and biological functions of the City's shorelines that are constrained by
biophysical limitations.
10.3.29. The Floodway/CMZ designation is assigned to shoreline areas that are within a mapped
Channel Migration Zone and/or within a designated FEMA Floodway. The extent of the
Floodway/CMZ designation should never extend beyond the limitations of the Shoreline
CMZ found in WAC 173-26-221(3)(b) Areas separated from the active river channel by
existing legal artificial channel constraints should not be considered as part of the CMZ.
In addition, areas that are separated from the active channel by legally existing artificial
structure(s) including transportation facilities, built above or constructed to remain intact
through the one hundred -year flood, should also not be considered part of the CMZ
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
10.3.30.
10.3.31.
10.3.32.
Commercial, industrial, mining, nonwater-oriented recreation, roads, utilities, parking
areas, and residences should generally not be located in the Floodway/CMZ environment
Other uses (recreation, resource, etc ) should be carefully limited to protect shoreline
functions
Activities that may degrade the value of the Floodway/CMZ environment should be limited,
and development in hazardous areas should be restricted
Modifications that harden or fix stream banks and channels should be discouraged
Urban Conservancy Environment Policies
10.3.33. The Urban Conservancy environment is intended to protect and restore ecological
functions of open space, floodplain and other sensitive lands where they exist in urban and
developed settings, while allowing a variety of compatible uses
10.3.34. Specific criteria for designation of the Urban Conservancy environment include areas or
properties that
103341 Lie in the city limits and urban growth areas,
103342 Are planned for development that is compatible with the principals of maintaining or
restoring the ecological functions of the area,
103343 Are suitable for water -enjoyment uses,
10334.4 Are open space or floodplains, or;
10334.5 Are areas that retain important ecological functions which should not be more
intensively developed
10.3.35. Allowed uses for the Urban Conservancy environment generally include uses which
preserve the natural character of the area, and promote the preservation of open space,
floodplains or sensitive lands Uses allowed under this designation should focus on
recreation. Commercial, industrial and residential uses should be limited, and when
allowed result in restoration of ecological functions Public access and recreation objectives
should be implemented whenever feasible and significant ecological impacts mitigated.
40
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Aquatic Environment — Lakes
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10.3.36. The purpose of the "Aquatic" environment is to protect, restore, and manage the unique
characteristics and resources of the areas waterward of the ordinary high-water mark of
shoreline lakes.
10.3.37. Specific criteria for the Aquatic designation are lands waterward of the ordinary high water
mark of shoreline lakes
10.3.38. Allow new over -water structures only for water -dependent uses, public access, or
ecological restoration The size of new over -water structures should be limited to the
minimum necessary to support the structure's intended use
10.3.39. In order to reduce the impacts of shoreline development and increase effective use of
water resources, multiple use of over -water facilities should be encouraged.
10.3.40. Uses that could adversely impact the ecological functions of critical freshwater habitats
should not be allowed except where necessary to achieve the objectives of the Shoreline
Management Act, and then only when their impacts are mitigated according to mitigation
sequencing as necessary to assure no net loss of ecological functions.
10.3.41. Shoreline uses and modifications should be designed and managed to prevent degradation
of water quality and alteration of natural hydrographic conditions
10.3.42. When considering development or activities in the Aquatic environment, the City should
favor development and activities associated with preferred uses of the Shoreline
Management Act and apply development standards that consider water quality, navigation,
presence of aquatic vegetation, existing critical habitats, aesthetics, public access, and
views
10.1 Economic Development Sub -element
Commercial and Service Development
10.3.43. Limit commercial and service development to those activities that are dependent upon a
shoreline location. Nonwater-oriented commercial uses may be allowed when part of a
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
mixed-use development including water dependent activities, or on sites separated from
the shoreline, or when public benefits such as public access and ecological restoration are
provided.
10.3.44. Commercial and service uses which are not shoreline dependent should be encouraged to
locate upland
Industrial Development
10.3.45. Allocate sufficient quantities of suitable land for water -related industry
10.3.46. Discourage industries which have proven to be environmentally hazardous in shoreline
areas
10.2 Public Access and Recreation Sub -element
Public Access
10.3.47. Protect navigation of waters of the state, the space needed for water -dependent uses, and
views of the water through development standards
10.3.48. Transportation and parking plans within Shoreline jurisdiction shall include systems for
public access, including pedestrian, bicycle, and public transportation where appropriate
10.3.49. Whenever possible shoreline development by public entities such as the City of Yakima,
Yakima, County, Yakima Greenway, Washington State Department of Transportation, and
Federal Highway Administration should incorporate both physical and visual public access
to shoreline areas which are compliant with the various entities safety and security access
plans However, adopted public access plans as described in WAC 173-26-221(4)(c) that
more effectively allow public access thru alternative means may be accepted in lieu of the
above site specific access requirements
10.3.50. Development standards for dedicated and improved public access to the shoreline and
visual quality should be required for public and private developments, with few exceptions,
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except where it is demonstrated to be infeasible due to reasons of safety, security, or
impact to the shoreline environment, or constitutional or legal limitations
10.3.51. Promote and enhance diversified types of public access to shorelines in the City of Yakima
that accommodate intensified uses without significantly impacting natural areas, and do
not infringe upon property rights
10.3.52. Access to recreational areas should emphasize multiple points of access (parking areas,
trails or bicycle paths)
10.3.53. Development standards should be established to assure preservation of unique, fragile, and
scenic elements, and to protect existing views from public property or large numbers of
residences
10.3.54. When considering shoreline issues where there is a conflict between water dependent
uses, public access, or maintenance of an existing view from adjacent properties, public
access or water dependent use should have priority unless there is a compelling reason to
the contrary
10.3.55. Road and railroad facilities should be properly designed, to provide to the greatest extent
practical, scenic corridors, rest areas, view points, and other public oriented facilities.
10.3.56. Wherever feasible, utilities should be placed underground
Recreational Development
10.3.57. Assure preservation and expansion of diverse, convenient recreational opportunities along
shorelines for public use, consistent with the capacity of the land by ensuring that shoreline
recreational development is given priority and is primarily related to access, enjoyment and
use of the water and Shorelines of the State. This policy may be accomplished by ensuring
that shoreline recreational development is given priority and is primarily related to access,
enjoyment and use of the water and Shorelines of the State.
10.3.58. Land uses designated for a specific shoreline recreational area should be planned to satisfy
a diversity of demands, and must be compatible with each other and the environment
10.3.59. Where feasible, encourage the use of public lands for recreational facilities as an
economical alternative to new acquisitions by local agencies
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.fir,.. Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
10.3.60. Locate, design, construct and operate recreational facilities to prevent undue adverse
impacts to natural resources and adjacent or nearby private properties
10.3 Circulation Sub -element (Transportation & Parking)
10.3.61. Encourage a transportation network capable of delivering people, goods, and services, and
resulting in minimal disruption of the shorelines' natural system
10.3.62. When mayor highways, freeways and railways are required to be located along stream
drainages or lake shores, the facilities should be sufficiently setback, and minimal land area
consumed so that a useable shoreline area remains
10.3.63. Access roads and parking areas should be located upland, away from the shoreline
whenever possible, and access to the water should be provided by pathways or other
methods
10.3.64. Parking facilities in shorelines are not a preferred use and should be allowed only as
necessary to support an authorized use.
10.3.65. Proper design, location, and construction of road and railroad facilities should be exercised
to
10365 1 Minimize erosion and permit the natural movement of water,
103652 Use existing topography and preserve natural conditions to the greatest practical
extent
10.3.66. Loops or spurs of old highways with high aesthetic quality or bicycle route potential should
be kept in service.
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10.4 Shoreline Uses and Modifications Sub -element
Agriculture
10.3.67. Allow lawfully established agricultural activities occurring on agricultural lands to continue
10.3.68. New agricultural activities on land not currently used for agriculture, conversion of
agricultural lands to other uses, and other development on agricultural land that does not
meet the definition of agricultural activities (including any agricultural development not
specifically exempted by the provisions of RCW 90 58 030(3)(e)(iv)) should meet shoreline
requirements
10.3.69. Prohibit concentrated feeding operations in shoreline jurisdiction
Aquaculture
10.3.70. Consider aquaculture a preferred shoreline use when consistent with the control of
pollution and prevention of damage to the environment
10.3.71. Ensure that aquaculture uses do not conflict with other water -dependent uses or
navigation, spread disease, establish non-native species that cause significant ecological
impact, or significantly impact the aesthetic qualities of the shoreline.
10.3.72. Protect spawning areas designated by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
from conflicting uses
Boating and Private Moorage Facilities
10.3.73. Ensure that boating facilities are located only at sites with suitable environmental
conditions, shoreline configuration, access, and neighboring uses
10.3.74. Piers and docks should only be allowed for water -dependent uses and public access, except
that water -enjoyment and water -related uses may sometimes be included as part of a
mixed-use development
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10.3.75. Applications for new piers and docks must show a specific need and must be the minimum
size necessary
10.3.76. Encourage the cooperative use of shared docks
Dredging and Dredge Material Disposal
10.3.77. Dredging should only be permitted for maintaining existing navigation uses, not for
obtaining fill material or mining.
10.3.78. The deposition of spoils in water areas should only be allowed for habitat improvement or
when the alternative is more detrimental than depositing in water areas.
Fill
10.3.79. Normal and reasonable land grading and filling should be allowed where necessary to
develop a land area for a permitted use provided
10379 1 There is no substantial changes made in the natural drainage patterns, and
103792 There is no reduction of flood water storage capacity that might endanger other
areas
103793 Filling within the ordinary high water mark should only be allowed when necessary to
support water -dependent uses, public access, transportation facilities, mitigation,
restoration, enhancement, and certain special situations listed in WAC 173-26-
231(3)(c)
10.3.80. In evaluating fill projects, such factors as total water surface reduction, navigation
restriction, impediment to water flow and circulation, impediment to irrigation systems,
reduction of water quality, and destruction of fish and wildlife habitat should be examined
10.3.81. Shoreline fills or cuts should be located and designed to avoid creating hazards to adjacent
life, property, natural resources systems, and to ensure that the perimeters of the fill
incorporate appropriate mechanisms for erosion prevention.
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In -Water Structures
10.3.82. Location and planning of in -water structures should consider the full range of public
interests, watershed functions and processes, and environmental concerns, with a special
emphasis on protecting and restoring priority habitats and species.
10.3.83. All in -water structures should provide for the protection and preservation of ecosystem -
wide processes, ecological functions, and cultural resources, including, but not limited to,
fish and wildlife, water resources, shorelines, critical areas, hydrogeological processes, and
natural scenic vistas
Mining
10.3.84. Removal of sand, gravel, and minerals should be allowed from only the least sensitive
shoreline areas and should comply with the below policies:
10384.1 Due to the risk of avulsion and mine pit capture by the rivers, mining within the
stream channel and channel migration zones should not be allowed, and
10384.2 Restoration or enhancement of ecological functions is encouraged
10.3.85. Require land reclamation plans of any mining venture proposed within a shoreline
10.3.86. Mining reclamation plans shall incorporate this SMP's restoration goal to the greatest
extent feasible, and shall be done in conformance with the Washington State Surface
Mining Act (RCW 78 44)
10.3.87. Ensure that mining and associated activities are designed and conducted consistent with
the applicable environment designation and the applicable critical areas ordinance
10.3.88. Ensure that proposed subsequent uses of mined property and the reclamation of disturbed
shoreline areas are consistent with the applicable environment designation and that
appropriate ecological functions are required within the reclamation plan.
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
Residential Development
10.3.89. Design subdivisions at a density, level of site coverage, and occupancy that is compatible
with the physical capabilities of the shoreline, and ensure proposals are located to prevent
the need for new shore stabilization or flood hazard reduction measures.
10.3.90. Restrict subdivisions in areas subject to flooding
10.3.91. Encourage cluster development wherever feasible to
103911 Maximize use of shorelines by residents,
103912 Maximize both on-site and off-site aesthetic appeal, and
103913 Minimize disruption of the natural shorelines
Shoreline Stabilization
10.392 Shoreline modifications should only be allowed where they are shown to be necessary to
support or protect an allowed primary structure or a legally existing shoreline use that is in
danger of loss or substantial damage, or they are necessary for mitigation or enhancement
work
10.3.93. Shoreline modifications should be limited to the minimum necessary to accomplish the
objective, while still protecting ecological functions Give preference to shoreline
modifications that have a lesser impact on ecological functions
10.3.94. New structural stabilization measures should only be allowed:
10394.1 When they are necessary to protect an existing primary structure,
10.3 94.2 Are in support of new and existing development, or
10.3 94.3 Are necessary to protect projects where restoration of ecological functions or
hazardous substance remediation projects is taking place
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10.3.95. Flood protection and stabilization measures which result in or tend toward channelization
of streams such as, hardening of stream banks, or fixing channel locations should be
avoided.
10.3.96. All shore stabilization activities should be designed and constructed to accepted
engineering standards
Signs
10.3.97. Outdoor sign size, spacing and lighting should conform to the Scenic Vistas Act (RCW 47 42)
and standards in the Zoning Ordinance
Utilities
10.3.98. New utility production and processing facilities, such as power plants and sewage
treatment plants, or parts of those facilities that are nonwater-oriented should not be
allowed in shoreline areas unless it can be demonstrated that no other feasible option is
available Expansion, updating, and maintenance of existing facilities is allowed but should
be designed to minimize impacts as much as possible
10.3.99. Wherever possible, transmission facilities for the conveyance of services, such as power
lines, cables, and pipelines, should be located outside of the shoreline area If location
within the shoreline cannot be prevented, utilities should be confined in a single corridor or
within an existing right-of-way or underground consistent with policy 10.3 50.
10.3.100. New sewage treatment, water reclamation, and power plants should be located where they
do not interfere with and are compatible with recreational, residential or other public uses
of the shoreline
10.3.101. New waste water treatment ponds for industrial uses should be located upland when
feasible
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Existing Uses
10.3.102. The SMP should recognize existing uses and developments in the shoreline, and allow them
to continue consistent with their lawfully established condition.
10.3.103. The City should apply applicable SMP provisions to the shoreline use or development
proposed in shoreline jurisdiction, considering the size, location, duration and scope of the
proposal where appropriate.
Redevelopment, Repair, and Maintenance
10.3.104. The SMP should recognize existing uses and developments in the shoreline, and allow them
to continue consistent with their lawfully established condition.
10.3.105. The City should apply applicable SMP provisions to the shoreline use or development
proposed in shoreline jurisdiction, considering the size, location, duration and scope of the
proposal where appropriate
10.5 Conservation Sub -element
Environmental Protection
10.3.106. Maintain, restore and where necessary improve the shoreline terrestrial and aquatic
ecosystems so that they maintain viable, reproducing populations of plants and animals
while providing the maximum public benefit of limited amounts of shoreline areas
Critical Areas & Vegetation Conservation
10.3.107. New development or uses, including the subdivision of land, should not be established
when it is foreseeable that the development or use would require structural flood hazard
reduction measures within the channel migration zone or floodway
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10.3.108. New structural flood hazard reduction measures in shoreline jurisdiction should only be
allowed when the following can be demonstrated:
1031081 The structural flood hazard reduction measure is necessary to protect an existing
development,
1031082 Nonstructural measures are not feasible,
1031083 Impacts on ecological functions and priority species and habitats can be successfully
mitigated so as to assure no net loss of ecological functions, and
1031084 Appropriate vegetation conservation actions are undertaken
10.3.109. Protect all shorelines of the state so that there is no net loss of ecological functions from
both individual permitted or exempt development.
10.3.110. Evaluate and consider cumulative impacts of development on shoreline ecological
functions to ensure no net loss of ecological function
10.3.111. Develop a means to allocate the burden of addressing cumulative effects
10.3.112. Provide, where feasible and desirable, restoration of degraded areas along the City's
shorelines.
10.3.113. Critical areas within shoreline jurisdiction are protected through the critical area policies
and standards of the City of Yakima's Shoreline Master Program and Comprehensive Plan
Natural Environment Chapter
10.3.114. Protect shoreline streams, lakes, ponds, and wetlands through the application of vegetative
buffers.
10.3.115. Existing agriculture should be encouraged to provide through voluntary means
1031151 Maintenance of a permanent vegetative buffer between tilled areas and associated
water bodies,
103 1152. Reduction of bank erosion,
103 1153 Reduction of surface runoff,
1031154 Reduction of siltation,
103 1155 Improvement of water quality, and
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1031156 Habitat for fish and wildlife
10.3.116. Buffer requirements for new agriculture uses on non-agricultural lands should be applied
10.3.117. Provide a permitting process which allows government agencies, and public and private
groups to submit and gain approval for long-term maintenance plans which comply with
the requirements of the City of Yakima Shoreline Master Program
10.3.118. Natural vegetation within shoreline jurisdiction should be retained to the greatest extent
feasible by applying the stream corridor and wetland buffer requirements
10.3.119. Selective pruning of trees for safety and view protection, and the removal of noxious weeds
is allowed
10.3.120. Shoreline construction/maintenance projects which disturb areas of the shoreline should
be restored to a state which is equal or greater than the original project condition. When
replanting is required, native species should be planted and maintained until new
vegetation is established
Shoreline Habitat and Natural Systems Enhancement Projects
10.3.121. Restoration and enhancement of shorelines should be designed using principles of
landscape and conservation ecology and should restore or enhance chemical, physical, and
biological watershed processes that create and sustain shoreline habitat structures and
functions
10.3.122. Restoration and enhancement actions should improve shoreline ecological functions and
processes and should target meeting the needs of sensitive plant, fish and wildlife species
as identified by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington Department of
Natural Resources, Yakama Nation, National Marine Fisheries Service, and/or U.S Fish and
Wildlife Service.
10.3.123. The City should, and private entities are encouraged to, seek funding from State, Federal,
private and other sources to implement restoration, enhancement, and acquisition
projects, particularly those that are identified in the Restoration Plan of this SMP or the
local watershed plans.
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10.3.124. The City should develop processing guidelines that will streamline the review of
restoration -only projects
10.3.125. Allow for the use of tax incentive programs, mitigation banking, grants, land swaps, or
other programs, as they are developed, to encourage restoration and enhancement of
shoreline ecological functions and to protect habitat for fish, wildlife and plants
Water Quality, Stormwater Management, and Nonpoint Pollution
10.3.126. Shoreline water quality should be protected as follows
1031261
Rely on the City's stormwater program and Ecology's Stormwater Management
Manual for Eastern Washington which meet state and federal stormwater control
requirements where possible,
103 126.2
Utilize Critical Aquifer Recharge Area protection measures,
103 126.3
Control drainage and surface runoff from all facilities requiring large quantities of
fertilizers and pesticides to prevent contamination of water areas;
10.3 126 4
All developments should comply with Yakima County Health regulations, when
applicable,
10 3.126 5
Handle and dispose of pesticides in accordance with provisions of the Washington
Pesticide Application Act (RCW 17 21) and the Washington Pesticide Act (RCW 14.47),
103.1266.
Proper design, location, and construction of all facilities should be exercised to
prevent the entry of pollutants or waste materials into waterbodies,
103 1267
When earthen materials are moved within shoreline areas, measures to adequately
protect water quality should be provided,
1031268
Water quality protection measures should not impact recreation opportunities,
1031269
New development and redevelopment proposals should be connected to city sewer,
and
10312610
New development and redevelopment proposals should provide adequate
stormwater handling and possibly pre-treatment facilities
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10.3.127. Agricultural erosion control measures should conform to standards established by the
Conservation Districts of Yakima County and those agreed upon in USDA conservation
plans.
10.3.128. In planning for marina location and design, special water quality considerations should be
given to:
103 1281 Fuel handling and storage facilities to minimize accidental spillage,
103 1282 Proper water depth and flushing action for any area considered for overnight or long-
term moorage facilities, and
103 1283 Adequate facilities to properly handle wastes from holding tanks
10.3.129. Sanitary landfills along shoreline areas should be prohibited The disposal of all solid
wastes should be disposed of in accordance with the Yakima County Inter -local and
Moderate Risk Solid Waste Management Plan.
10.6 Historic, Cultural, Scientific, and Educational Resources Sub -element
10.3.130. Require the protection and restoration of areas and sites in the City of Yakima having
historic, archaeological, cultural, educational or scientific value consistent with local, state
and federal laws.
10.3.131. Development along shorelines includes planning that incorporates expertise and
recommendations of qualified cultural resource professionals including archaeologists,
historians, and tribal representation to identify cultural and historic resources that could be
affected by the project, evaluate any present resources for significance; and recommend
appropriate preservation strategies
10.3.132. Shoreline permits should contain conditions of approval which require developers to
immediately stop work and notify local governments, the Office of Archaeology and
Historic Preservation, and the Yakama Nation, if any archaeological or historic resources are
uncovered during excavation
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10.3.133. Development that would destroy archaeological, cultural and/or historic sites or data will
be delayed for an appropriate amount of time as determined by the City in consultation
with interested parties that would allow an appropriate entity to protect or mitigate the
affected resource.
10.3.134. Establish and implement procedures that protect cultural and historic resources by
designing projects to avoid impacting resources to the greatest extent possible or
identifying and implementing mitigation measures when avoidance or preservation is not
possible
10.7 Flood Hazard Management Sub -element
10.3.135. The City should ensure public and private development applications site and design flood
control measures consistent with appropriate engineering principles, including guidelines
of the Natural Resource Conservation Service, the U S Army Corps of Engineers, Yakima
County Flood Hazard Management Plan, watershed plans, restoration plans, critical area
regulations, floodplain regulations, and stormwater management plans and regulations in
order to prevent flood damage, maintain the natural hydraulic capacity of floodways, and
conserve limited resources such as fish habitat, water, and soil
10.3.136. Where feasible, non-structural methods to protect, enhance, and restore shoreline
ecological functions and processes and other shoreline resources should be encouraged
as an alternative to structural flood control works. Non-structural methods may include,
but are not limited to, shoreline buffers, land use controls, use relocation, wetland
restoration, dike removal, biotechnical measures, stormwater management programs, land
or easement acquisition, voluntary protection and enhancement projects, or incentive
programs.
10.3.137. New or expanding development or uses in shoreline jurisdiction, including subdivision of
land, that would likely require structural flood control works, such as dikes, levees,
revetments, floodwalls, channel realignment, gabions or rip -rap, within a river, floodway, or
lake should not be allowed.
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10.3.138. New structural flood control works should only be allowed in shoreline jurisdiction when it
can be demonstrated by a scientific and engineering analysis that they are necessary to
protect existing development, that impacts to ecological functions and priority species and
habitats can be successfully mitigated so as to assure no net loss, that appropriate
vegetation conservation actions are undertaken, and where non-structural flood hazard
reduction measures are infeasible
10.3.139. Flood control works and shoreline uses, development, and modifications should be located,
designed, constructed and maintained so their resultant effects on geo-hydraulic shoreline
processes will not cause significant damage to other properties or shoreline resources, and
so that the physical integrity of the shoreline corridor is maintained
Implementation
This element is implemented by the full Shoreline Master Program, which includes development
regulations that support Shoreline goals and policies A permit process for shoreline substantial
development permits, shoreline conditional use permits, and shoreline variances references these goals
and policies and the shoreline development regulations
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12.1 Introduction
The purpose of this Energy Element is to identify opportunities and key issues related to the promotion of
renewable energy use and facilities in the City of Yakima This Element is intended to supplement existing
Comprehensive Plan Elements for Land Use, Transportation, and Economic Development
12.2 Conditions and Trends
Wind Energy
Washington State is ranked 101h in the nation in net generation of electricity from wind energy While there
is substantial wind energy infrastructure in nearby Kittitas and Klickitat counties, there are no substantial
wind energy facilities in or around the City of Yakima.
Energy - Growth Management Act
The GMA provides for optional elements to
the Comprehensive Plan, including Energy
(RCW 36 70A 080(1)(b))
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Solar Energy
There are no substantial solar energy facilities in or around the City of Yakima at this time According to
the US Energy Informational Administration, the northeast corner of the City has good photovoltaic solar
potential. The City of Yakima sees about 300 days of sunshine per year
Geothermal Energy
Geothermal power uses heat from below the earth's surface to produce electricity or heat buildings and
water systems Geothermal power produces little to no air pollution and is extremely reliable during the
lifetime of the power plant. Geothermal applications cover a range of uses, from small-scale heat pumps
used in homes to large-scale power plants that provide electricity. There are no substantial geothermal
energy facilities in or around the City of Yakima at this time
12.3 Challenges and Opportunities
New Construction
Strengthened building codes and innovative construction methods (solar energy) are effective ways to
reduce energy consumption Effective layout of subdivisions can also increase energy efficiency by allowing
for solar access and protection from winds
Industrial and commercial sectors are similarly encouraged to explore alternate energy sources when
designing new buildings, especially those that are LEED eligible.
Transportation
A well -laid -out transportation system will aid in conserving energy Smoother traffic flows can increase
vehicle efficiency, additional pedestrian and bicycle facilities promote alternate means of commuting, and
higher urban densities along transit routes can further reduce vehicle trips
ENERGY
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
12.4 Goals and Policies
GOAL 12.1. SUPPORT RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS FOR RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL,
AND MIXED-USE STRUCTURES AND DEVELOPMENTS.
Policies
12.1.1 Allow flexibility in development regulations that promote energy efficiency and conservation.
12.1.2 Protect solar access to use natural heating and lighting opportunities.
12 1.3 Consider development standards that allow small-scale solar and wind energy facilities in new and
existing developments.
GOAL 12.2. REDUCE ENERGY USED FOR TRANSPORTATION.
12 2 1. Promote an efficient transportation system through a compact development pattern
12 2 2. Review parking standards to promote a parking lot layout that maximizes energy efficiency
12 2 3.Continue to provide and encourage viable options for multi -modal means of transportation to
reduce the amount of single occupant vehicles
12 2 4. Encourage installation of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles
GOAL 12.3. SEEK OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION AT ALL LEVELS OF
GOVERNMENT.
Policies
12.3 1 Incorporate energy efficient facilities in new and rehabilitated government buildings, where
feasible
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Yakima Comprehensive Plan 2040
12.5 Implementation
Yakima's Comprehensive Plan is implemented through the actions and investments made by the City with
the support of its residents and stakeholders Some of these actions include regulatory changes,
partnerships, coordination, administrative acts, policy changes, and capital investments The following
implementation items aid in this process
Building Code
Zoning Code
Exhibit 12-1 Energy Element Implementation
Regulatory Law
Regulatory Law
State Environmental Policy Act Regulatory Law
• Construction standards
• Land use densities and
allowable uses
• Parking standards
• Environmental review