Mountlake Terrace updates parks projects and flags water, sewer capacity and Main Street grant status

Planning staff gave commissioners an update on capital and infrastructure items on June 23, saying construction work will begin at Ballenger Park’s north‑end trail and lake viewing platform, that work at Vets Park is temporarily paused for safety hardware and tree‑replacement work, and that accessibility improvements at Evergreen Playfield restrooms should finish in the next few weeks.

Staff said a pre‑construction meeting has occurred at Ballenger Park and that a construction trailer will be on site when work starts. Work at Vets Park was described as temporarily shut down because specified handrails and other safety items are on back order; staff said additional tree removal has occurred and tree replacement or fee‑in‑lieu work will be scheduled as part of closing out that project.

Evergreen Playfield restroom accessibility and surrounding sidewalks are slated to be completed in the coming weeks, staff said. Commissioners were told to expect follow‑up tree planting and finishing work for Vets Park in October–November.

On utilities and transportation, staff said the water and sewer comprehensive plans are high priorities and described the city as behind schedule on those documents. Staff indicated the city is responsible for securing water treatment capacity and acquiring rights or capital to avoid future moratoria; staff said the city will eventually need an additional water tower and increased treatment capacity to meet 20‑year growth assumptions. The director warned that failure to plan could result in development restrictions or moratoria if capacity is not addressed.

Staff reported that the city is waiting to learn in July whether a federal grant for Main Street Phase 2 has been awarded; the director said that result “is not looking great at this point” but that state opportunities remain. Staff also mentioned the city’s commute‑trip‑reduction work and an ongoing Transportation Improvement Plan update for council. The meeting included a light, informal discussion about painting the city water tower; staff said lead‑paint remediation is required and that painting was scheduled with potential for later art or sponsorship opportunities.

Why it matters: Park construction affects public recreation access and near‑term construction impacts; water and sewer comp plans and capacity investments affect the city’s ability to permit future development and set utility rates. Commissioners were urged to remain engaged with staff as these projects move through design, permitting and construction.