Black Diamond, Washington

Balancing Growth and Community in Washington’s Fastest Growing City

With a full view of what its residents need and charting the course to get there

The Seattle Times recognized Black Diamond as the fastest-growing city in King County in 2023. The population has nearly doubled, from 4,200 in 2012 to approximately 7,200 today. The rapid growth presents challenges and opportunities, which the city proactively addresses through strategic planning and development initiatives.

Coal town

Black Diamond is in King County, along the Cascade Mountain range, 25 miles southeast of Seattle. The town was established in the late nineteenth century as a company town for the Black Diamond Coal Company, originally based in Nortonville, California, 35 miles east of San Francisco. When coal was discovered in Washington Territory, the company dispatched a representative north to assess its potential.

The coal tested well, prompting the relocation of a crew to the homestead and the establishment of operations. The construction of a narrow-gauge rail line from Renton was the first major task to facilitate heavy machinery transport. By 1884, the mines were operational, and workers and their families were moved from California to populate the burgeoning town. Though the coal mines have long since shut down, Black Diamond continues to thrive, preserving its rich history and heritage.

Master Planned Development (MPD)

Moving forward to recent developments, Mayor Carol Benson highlights several key infrastructure projects shaping the future of Black Diamond. “We have the largest Master Planned Development (MPD) in the state of Washington, and it was approved in 2010 for 6,050 residences,” she notes. Despite the economic delays, the first home was completed in 2018, and approximately 1,200 residences have been established.

One of the most significant infrastructure upgrades includes the installation of two roundabouts on Highway 169, a major state highway. The project improves traffic flow and incorporates underground stormwater vaults to protect water quality. Once completed, the main roundabout will feature a stormwater vault converted into a park with trees and benches, creating a pleasant communal space.

Miners Day 2023

Enhancing water infrastructure

Black Diamond is home to Lake Sawyer, the fourth-largest lake in King County. At the lake’s outlet, Covington Creek, lies a weir, an important dam structure. The town recently secured a $2.8 million grant from the flood control district to replace aging culverts with a bridge, enhancing the area’s infrastructure without requiring matching funds.

Additionally, the town has a historically significant spring water source, initially developed by miners. The source is undergoing upgrades, funded by developers who will receive future credits for water infrastructure improvements. The upgrades include new pumps and piping to ensure a reliable water supply.

Another exciting project is the rebuilding of the local skate park. The original park, removed due to safety concerns, will be reconstructed with the help of grant and capital funding, with completion expected by the end of 2024. This will provide a safe and modern space for the town’s youth and skating enthusiasts.

The town’s gym, a historical structure moved from a school to city property, has seen significant upgrades. This includes a new roof funded by a grant, new handicap ramps, stairs, doors, lighting, and padding for sports activities. The gym is a multifunctional space for parties, activities, and sports events.

Environmental and recreational spaces are a key focus in Black Diamond, with the town’s Master Planned Developments (MPDs) mandating that 40% of the area be dedicated to active and passive trail systems. Ginder Creek Park, another significant project, recently received grant funding to improve community connectivity and promote a walkable environment.

Dynamic housing market

The housing market in Black Diamond is currently in a dynamic phase, with about 100 homes in inventory and 104 new permit applications recently submitted. Although the market experienced a slowdown last year, likely due to rising interest rates, buyers are beginning to adjust. Compared to historical rates, current interest rates are relatively moderate. The market has seen a resurgence in activity, with even high-priced age-qualified homes, ranging from $700,000 to over a million dollars, being sold, which is particularly surprising.

The demographic landscape of Black Diamond has significantly evolved. The town, which initially had about 30 languages spoken by the early miners, now boasts even greater diversity. “We’ve been growing a lot and seeing more diversity and younger families moving in, which brings a vibrant and dynamic energy to Black Diamond,” says Mayor Benson. This shift is evident as more younger families move into the area, bringing with them a variety of backgrounds and cultures.

Business development challenges

Business development in Black Diamond faces challenges in attracting commercial enterprises, particularly within the designated commercial sections of the MPDs. Most development has occurred along the state highway, where a few successful builders are active.

The town’s reliance on property tax to fund public safety, coupled with a lack of business and occupation tax and a low sales tax rate, underscores the need to attract more businesses. However, incentives such as waived broadband fees in Ten Trails have been appealing, especially during the pandemic, when remote work became prevalent. The measures have made Black Diamond an attractive option for homebuyers seeking robust internet connectivity for remote work.

As Mayor Benson highlights, economic development is a significant focus for Black Diamond. Last year, the town received a grant from the Port of Seattle, which facilitated the creation of a promotional video showcasing current businesses and emphasizing the benefits of operating in Black Diamond. Among the businesses featured were Redline Mechanical and Provident Electric. The developer, Oak Pointe Development, also had a segment, reflecting the collaborative efforts to boost the local economy.

Engaging community events

Community-focused events play a fundamental role in bringing people together in Black Diamond. One of the standout events is Miners Day, a one-day celebration in July that honors the town’s rich mining history. Additionally, the annual Labor Day Festival offers activities, including a Saturday night movie at the Ten Trails development and various events along Highway 169. A highlight of Labor Days is the parade on Labor Day itself, which temporarily closes a mile of the state highway, much to the delight of residents and visitors.

The Fourth of July is another significant event, particularly for the 322 homes around Lake Sawyer. The lake’s homeowner’s association organizes various activities, including a fun run, paddleboard and kayak races, water ski competitions, and a grand fireworks display. The festivities can be enjoyed from two parks: Lake Sawyer Regional Park, spanning 142 acres, and a smaller boat launch park.

Black Diamond is also host to the well-known Tough Mudder, an endurance event that has been a fixture in the community since around 2013. Most events occur on private land, with some portions running through Lake Sawyer Regional Park and Palmer Coking Coal property. The event, attracting participants from near and far, features the town’s ability to host large-scale, community-centric events.

Key partnerships and community groups

Special groups and partners are crucial to Black Diamond’s vibrancy and community cohesion. One such entity is the Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber of Commerce. Over the past year, the Chamber has been working diligently to increase the involvement of Black Diamond businesses, fostering a stronger business community within the town.

Another key organization is the Black Diamond Community Center. The center is integral to the town’s social fabric, offering various services and events. It runs a food and clothing bank and sponsors and delivers lunches twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Community Center is heavily involved in supporting the town’s residents, particularly those in need.

Partnerships with developers are also essential to the town’s development strategy. Developers are collaborating with the city and the Community Center to build new facilities within the MPDs and Ten Trails. The new facilities will include improved amenities and parking, addressing current limitations. The Community Center, currently located on Highway 169 with limited parking, will benefit significantly from the new developments, especially for aging adults who find it challenging to park at the current location.

The planned relocation of the Community Center to Ten Trails, in conjunction with the new City Hall facilities, represents a strategic partnership that aims to enhance community services and accessibility. The collaboration is expected to provide better infrastructure and support for the residents, reflecting Black Diamond’s commitment to fostering strong community partnerships and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

Community-oriented policing

The city’s police department is another point of pride. After years of effort, the department is now fully staffed with 13 officers, including a marine patrol unit for Lake Sawyer. Last year, the department secured a new patrol boat with grant and insurance funds after the previous one sank. A new dock is also being built at the boat launch park to facilitate boat launches and provide additional public access.

Mayor Benson proudly states, “Our police department is a community police department, and we’re usually in the top 10 safest cities.” The community policing initiatives include the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) program, which they run in Black Diamond and Enumclaw, covering all four elementary schools in the area. The program’s success has been bolstered by donations of supplies from neighboring cities that no longer run D.A.R.E. programs.

Vision for 2024 and beyond

Black Diamond has several ambitious projects and a clear vision for the future. One of the most significant developments is the construction of a new City Hall and Community Center, to be built together in one location. The project, facilitated by a developer, promises to provide modern, accessible facilities to better serve the community’s needs. Additionally, there are plans for future park developments to enhance spaces for active community events.

The comprehensive approach to growth, infrastructure, and community engagement illustrates Black Diamond’s dedication to improving the quality of life for its residents. With a proactive vision and strong community partnerships, the town is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory into the future.

AT A GLANCE

Black Diamond, Washington

What: A small town tied to the coal mining industry, now known for its rapid population growth, community-focused events, and ongoing infrastructure and development projects.

Where: Black Diamond is located in King County, along the Cascade Mountain range, 25 miles southeast of Seattle.

Website: https://www.blackdiamondwa.gov/