By Steven Schauer, Deputy Executive Director and King County Staff
The King County Flood Control District (KCFCD) has been working diligently since its creation in 2007 to safeguard our communities from flooding. The KCFCD, in collaboration with King County as service provider, has spearheaded over 370 capital projects aimed at mitigating the risk of levee and revetment failures. These projects, along with the operation and maintenance of over 500 flood protection facilities, cover 118 linear miles and approximately 800 acres of land crucial for flood mitigation.
While the KCFCD’s weekly blog typically shares information about new and ongoing projects, each month, we will shine a spotlight on a completed project that is quietly doing its job to safeguard our community against the threat of flooding. The project we’re covering this month is the Lower Russell Levee Setback Project in Kent.
Celebrating the Lower Russell Levee Setback Project
“The Lower Russell Levee Setback Project is a shining example of how we can protect our communities from devastating floods while enhancing our natural environment,” said Reagan Dunn, Chair of the King County Flood Control District. “This award-winning project demonstrates the power of collaboration and innovation in creating resilient infrastructure that not only safeguards lives and livelihoods but also restores critical salmon habitat and provides vibrant recreational opportunities for all to enjoy.”
The King County Flood Control District (KCFCD) is, to say the least, proud of the Lower Russell Levee Setback Project in the City of Kent. This landmark $58 million initiative, completed in 2023, is a testament to what can be achieved when innovative engineering, ecological restoration, cultural respect, and community collaboration come together. Let’s explore how this project is reshaping the region for the better.
A New Standard for Flood Protection
The Lower Russell Levee Setback Project enhances flood protection by upgrading 1.4 miles of levee and revetment to meet modern engineering standards. Designed to withstand a 0.2 percent annual chance flood event—also known as a 500-year flood—the levee system ensures long-term resilience for a critical region that supports one-eighth of Washington state’s Gross Domestic Product. In addition to safeguarding homes, businesses, and infrastructure, the project reduces long-term maintenance costs, making it a sustainable investment for future generations.
Restoring Ecological Vitality
Beyond flood protection, the project brings remarkable ecological benefits. By setting back the levee, over 40 acres of historical floodplain have been reconnected to the Green River, fostering a healthier and more dynamic ecosystem. Over 20 acres of native trees and shrubs were planted, providing shade that improves salmon habitat. Additionally, 16 acres were specifically designed as rearing and refuge areas for juvenile Chinook salmon and steelhead, supporting their survival and contributing to the overall biodiversity of the river.
Riverine habitat was further enhanced with wood structures to create pools and eddy currents, benefiting aquatic life while honoring traditional tribal fishing practices. The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, Suquamish Tribe, Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians, and Tulalip Tribes contributed their expertise to ensure the project respected the site’s cultural and ecological significance.
For these reasons, and more, On October 30, 2024, at the National Association of Flood & Stormwater Management Agencies (NAFSMA) Annual Conference, the KCFCD won first place in the Innovative Water Project Award for the Lower Russell Levee Setback Project. This award reflects KCFCD’s commitment to forward-thinking flood protection solutions, environmental restoration, and inclusive community engagement.
A Unified Space for Community and Culture
The Lower Russell Levee Setback Project also revitalized Van Doren’s Landing Park, transforming it into a hub for recreation, learning, and cultural connection. The park now features:
- A restroom and two park shelters
- ADA-accessible playground with a zipline, swings, and slides
- Horseshoe pits, a pickleball court, and a wiffleball field
- Public art and a viewing tower
- A first foods cooking area, educational area, and an historic barn
Integrated with the Green River Trail, the park offers opportunities for both active recreation and tranquil nature walks. Recognized with the Washington Recreation and Parks, 2024 Spotlight Park Award, this vibrant space reflects the project’s commitment to creating a community resource that fosters engagement, health, and well-being.
Collaboration at Its Best
The success of the Lower Russell Levee Setback Project is rooted in partnership. The KCFCD contributed $48.3 million to the project, with additional funding from grants, including:
- $4.9 million from the state Department of Ecology’s Floodplains by Design program
- $4.8 million from the Salmon Recovery Funding Board through the Puget Sound Acquisition and Restoration Large Capital Projects program
Collaboration extended to many partners and interested parties, including the five Tribes mentioned above, the City of Kent, King County’s Department of Natural Resources and Parks, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NOAA Fisheries, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, WRIA 9 Salmon Recovery, and environmental organizations like the Green River Coalition and Rainier Audubon.
A key component of the project’s success was its deep commitment to honoring the cultural and historical significance of the area. Collaboration with five regional Tribes played an integral role in the project’s development, and this commitment was recognized when the KCFCD received the 2024 King County Executive’s John D. Spellman Award for Exemplary Achievement in Historic Preservation in the Preservation Partnerships category. This prestigious recognition honors the extraordinary collaboration and innovative efforts undertaken to preserve the cultural and historic significance of the Green River Valley while achieving critical flood risk reduction and ecological restoration goals.
A Vision Realized
The award-winning Lower Russell Levee Setback Project stands as a shining example of how comprehensive planning and community engagement can achieve multiple benefits. This nearly $58 million investment has:
- Provided unmatched flood protection
- Restored critical salmon habitat and enhanced biodiversity
- Honored cultural traditions and tribal connections
- Created a world-class recreational space
Through collaboration and innovation, this project delivers on its promise to help protect life and property while enriching the environment and community. As we celebrate its completion, we invite you to explore the revitalized Van Doren’s Landing Park, walk along the Green River Trail, and witness firsthand the positive impact of this transformative effort.