The Des Moines City Council meeting on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025, addressed upcoming changes to public transit, as well as proposed ecological improvements at Des Moines Beach Park.
The council also heard updates on the creation of new citizen advisory committees for airport and planning matters, as well as exploring the feasibility of a new boat launch and dry stack storage facility at the marina.
These discussions highlighted both the challenges and opportunities facing the city as it plans for future growth and development.
Light Rail Expansion, Bus Routes Cut
The meeting began with a presentation from King County Metro on planned changes to several bus routes. These changes will happen as a result of the coming Link light rail expansion from Star Lake to Federal Way. There is a public survey as well as more information available at this link. The survey will be available until February 28th.
The changes include removing ten peak-only bus routes in the region, including the 121, 122, and 123. The majority of the planned cuts are to routes that have been suspended since 2020. Metro plans to increase Saturday & Sunday service to many bus routes, as well as improve east-west connections. Improvements are planned for the Rapid Ride A-Line, which will connect with the Federal Way and Kent/Des Moines light rail stations. Route 156 will also connect to the Kent/Des Moines station, and run earlier and later each day.
After the presentation, several councilmembers mentioned neighborhoods that are considered “transit deserts” due to the complete lack of bus service. It was explained that due to limited funds, we are unlikely to see service added to areas that don’t have it at this point. Councilmember JC Harris also asked for easier access to ridership data on the King County Metro website. Presenters said they would do their best to address these issues.
Des Moines Creek Estuary Project
The council heard an update on the proposed estuary and beach updates at the Des Moines Beach Park. The plan aims to restore salmon habitat, as well as preserve the meadow and other city resources against king tide events. This project is completely grant funded. There will be a public engagement process, and the design phase will continue through 2026.
Timeline For Airport & Planning Committees
Council heard a brief presentation on the timeline for establishing two new citizen advisory groups. The Airport Committee is likely to be established and ready for action by this coming summer. The Planning Commission, however, will require more staff time to be established since changes to the city code are needed. December is when it will likely be up and running.
Boat Launch & Dry Stack Storage Feasibility
Harbormaster Scott Wilkins presented ideas on the construction of a new small boat launch. He explained that the old one was closed down in 2022. The new boat launch has already been permitted. The project will require removal of the old superstructure including the creosote pilings and launch deck, as well as hazardous waste disposal. This total cost is estimated at $2.1 million.
Harbormaster Wilkins also described potential construction of dry stack storage for watercraft 30’ and smaller. The building, which could be 35’ tall, would store 170 to 200 boats. It would bring in additional revenue to fund the future capital needs of the marina. It would also provide value to boat owners, as storing their boats out of the weather would reduce maintenance costs. There could also be the potential for a concierge service. This building would cost $3.3 million to build.
The roof of the dry stack building, as currently envisioned, would be about five feet taller than the marina office. Councilmembers brought up the fact that many marina residents are concerned about their views being blocked. The design could potentially be made shorter, but then it would lose storage capacity. The community will be asked for their input before the project proceeds.
