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Council approves $667,087 amendment for Bellevue Bay water park grading and tree removal; members emphasize replacement and community tree giveaways
Summary
The Bellevue City Council approved a guaranteed-maximum-price amendment of up to $667,087 to begin surcharge grading and remove trees on the Bellevue Bay indoor water park site. Council members pressed staff on tree replacement plans and announced plans for a city tree giveaway.
The Bellevue City Council approved a guaranteed-maximum-price amendment to begin surcharge grading and remove trees at the Bellevue Bay indoor water park site in an amount not to exceed $667,087.
Councilman Preister, in discussing the item, emphasized the number of mature trees being removed and urged the city to set an example by replacing trees in public spaces. "I really wanna stress the importance of replacing trees and for the city to set an example," Preister said. He noted continued tree loss from storms and age and encouraged city-supported planting, including a tree giveaway this summer.
A staff member identified as Jim told the council that replacement trees will be incorporated into the site's landscaping and that many new trees will be planted as the project moves into the landscaping phase. Jim said, "There will be replacement trees that will go through'and we're with you when we do things within the parks to continue the addition of trees."
Why it matters: The amendment funds initial earthwork and tree removal for a high-profile recreation project. Council discussion focused on ensuring the city's tree canopy is maintained or enhanced as development proceeds.
Council action: Councilwoman Welch moved and Councilman Preister seconded the motion to approve the guaranteed-maximum-price amendment. The meeting record shows the vote carried with "all voting yes."
Clarifying details and outstanding items: the meeting record does not list the number of trees to be removed or the specific species or replacement counts; staff described that landscaping plans will include substantial tree additions but did not provide a precise planting schedule or counts during the discussion. The council indicated the parks department and the Tree Board will coordinate a tree-giveaway program later this year.
The amendment is part of ongoing construction activity tied to the Bellevue Bay indoor water park project; other project-related contracts and approvals appeared elsewhere on the agenda.
