Residents tell council Cumberland aggregate mine could bring heavy truck traffic, noise and high water use

At the July 13 Eden Plus City Council meeting, residents urged the council to pay attention to a proposed Cumberland aggregate mine and asphalt plant, warning of long-term traffic, noise and water impacts on Enumclaw and neighboring communities.

“My name is Julius Stevens, and I live in unincorporated King County just outside of Enumclaw,” Stevens said during public comment. He told the council the project description estimates 25 to 35 years of gravel removal, said the proposed operation would run around the clock and cited an estimated truck volume of “298 to 668 heavy trucks per day.” Stevens also told the council the proposal lists projected water use of “175,000 to 250,000 gallons a day.” He urged the council to review King County’s project materials and noted the county’s public comment period runs through Aug. 7; he left a copy of the county release with the city clerk.

Linda Stevens, also speaking during public comment, urged the council to preserve roughly 990 acres north of Cumberland around Lizard Mountain. She described the area as important for recreation and local water resources, and said residents worry about well impacts if a large industrial project proceeds.

Both speakers framed their remarks as local and regional concerns. Julius Stevens said traffic and road wear could affect emergency services and police responses and that noise would be a major impact; Linda Stevens said the land provides river access and recreation opportunities that residents value.

City staff did not take formal action on the Cumberland-area proposals during the meeting. Julius Stevens noted King County is accepting comments through Aug. 7; he left materials with the city clerk for council consideration.

The council took no vote or motion on the Cumberland project at the July 13 meeting.