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Federal Way council adopts condemnation ordinance to secure right-of-way for SR-99/S. 370th roundabout
Summary
On second reading the council approved Council Bill 915 to pursue acquisition — including condemnation if necessary — for the SR-99 at S. 370th Street roundabout; Public Works Director EJ Walsh said condemnation is a multi-step legal tool that protects property owners while allowing the project to proceed.
The Federal Way City Council on Oct. 7 approved Council Bill 915 (second reading), directing staff to pursue acquisition of property needed for the SR-99 at South 370th Street roundabout and to exhaust negotiated purchase attempts before initiating condemnation proceedings.
Public Works Director EJ Walsh explained the purpose and safeguards of condemnation: "Condemnation is a method where there's an essential public need for public safety to construct improvements for the betterment of the community... it does not mean that it's not a taking. We still have to pay for it, and it doesn't happen instantaneously." Walsh added that the process includes negotiation attempts and, if necessary, asking a court to determine fair market value.
Council discussion confirmed the ordinance covers only portions of property needed for the project and that staff has attempted negotiations with owners. After remarks and a motion the ordinance passed unanimously on second reading. The ordinance directs the city attorney to take necessary steps if negotiations fail and positions the city to proceed with the roundabout project while continuing outreach to affected property owners.
