WWW.BLACKDIAMONDWA.GOV BLACK DIAMOND, WABALANCING GROWTH & COMMUNITY IN WASHINGTON’S FASTEST GROWING CITY
BLACK DIAMOND, WA BALANCING GROW IN WASHINGTON’S GROWING CITY 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: B lack Diamond is located in King County, along the Cascade Mountain range, 25 miles southeast of Seattle. WEBSITE: www.blackdiamondwa.gov WITH A F AND CHA 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08
WTH & COMMUNITY FASTEST FULL VIEW OF WHAT ITS RESIDENTS NEED ARTING 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 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08
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. ENHANCING WATER INFRASTRUCTURE Black Diamond is home to Lake Sawyer, the fourthlargest 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. 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
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INDOOR PLAYGROUND Discover the ultimate indoor playground for children! We offer unforgettable birthday party bookings, exciting camps, versatile event space, and enriching preschool classes. Join us for a fun-filled experience that your kids will love and cherish! Ash & Elm Play Studio is located in the Maple Valley, Black Diamond, Covington area. WWW.ASHANDELMPLAY.COM • 425-588-9320 • INFO@ASHANDELMPLAY.COM
EXCITING NEWS: NEW OWNERSHIP AND ONSITE MANAGEMENT! We are thrilled to announce that Ash & Elm Play Studio is under new ownership with a dedicated onsite management team. Our new leadership is committed to enhancing your experience with fresh ideas and a renewed focus on providing a safe, fun, and engaging environment for your children. We understand the importance of supporting parents and families, and our new management is dedicated to offering services that give parents peace of mind and valuable time to focus on their well-being and other important personal goals. Looking for a fun and safe place for your children to play, learn, and celebrate? Then, look no further! At Ash & Elm Play Studio, we offer a variety of exciting services designed to delight both kids and parents. BIRTHDAY PARTY BOOKINGS: Celebrate your child’s special day with us! Our birthday party packages include exclusive use of our play area, themed decorations, a setup team, and a dedicated party host to ensure everything runs smoothly. OPEN PLAY/INTERACTIVE PLAY/DROP CAMPS: Keep your kids engaged and active during school breaks with our fun-filled camps. Our weekly Open Play and Interactive Drop Off sessions offer a mix of educational activities, creative arts, and plenty of playtime. PRESCHOOL CLASSES: Give your little ones a head start with our enriching preschool classes. Our curriculum is designed to foster confidence in both academics and social emotional skills through entertaining and engaging activities. EVENT SPACE: Need a unique venue for your next event? Our versatile event space is perfect for family gatherings, community events, parties, and more. Rent our space and enjoy a hassle-free experience with our on-site support. AFFORDABILITY: We offer pocket-friendly prices, along with great membership options, featuring freebies, perks, and fun giveaways for families. Join the Ash & Elm Play Studio family today and experience the joy of a vibrant, engaging environment where children can play, learn, and grow.
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. 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
PASSING THE TORCH It was a sense of coziness that first hooked Dr. Michael Archuleta when he walked through the doors of Black Diamond Dentistry 2 years ago. Like a Norman Rockwell painting, the dental practice possessed a quaint nostalgia, harkening back to an era when small towns and the family-owned businesses that defined them were the heartbeat of America. “I had previously practiced dentistry in a busy shopping district, dominated by chain stores. You start to feel like just a number in an environment like that. I wanted something different. I wanted to get to know my patients and their families, to provide care across generations and to put down roots in the community I live in. Black Diamond Dentistry was the perfect fit. I felt it as soon as I walked through the doors.” Since assuming ownership of the practice in 2022, Dr. Mike has never felt more at home. “We have the most amazing patients,” he beams, “many of which know a tremendous amount about the history of Black Diamond.” The once burgeoning coal-mining town has managed to simultaneously pivot industry and retain many of its bedrock family-owned businesses - no small feat in a rapidly changing world. Dr. Mike feels honored to carry this torch forward, providing cutting-edge care with compassion.“You are never just a number, here. At Black Diamond Dentistry, we’re one big family.” 31527 3rd Ave Black Diamond, WA, 98010 www.blackdiamonddentistry.com We serve your entire family’s dental needs! Dr. Michael Archuleta Dr Ashley Edwards (360) 886-1300 Botox and Invisalign treatments
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 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
Cedar County Landscaping Inc has been providing luxury landscaping to the South King County area for almost 30 years. The company has blossomed from a one man show providing basic landscaping to a dedicated team of 30 employees eager to make your landscaping dreams come true! We are truly a “one-stop shop” company for all of your landscaping needs. Cedar County Landscaping provides basic landscaping services as well as creating complex designs for new development or revamping your existing landscaping. Have you been sitting on your porch wishing your yard looked like those amazing properties you see in magazines?! Give Cedar County Landscaping a call! Are you tired of mowing your lawn, battling those weeds, pruning your bushes and trees? Call Cedar County Landscaping! We specialize in synthetic turf, sod, hydroseed, concrete patios/walkways, sports courts, irrigation systems, low voltage lighting, retaining walls, yard clean ups, drainage work and many other services. We provide weekly and monthly landscaping services year-round. Give us a call today for your free quote. Our estimator can help make that dream of yours become a reality! Cedar County Landscaping is a locally owned and operated company that has been in business for almost 30 years. We are available for all of your landscaping needs. Landscape Maintenance Landscape Design Yard Clean Ups Irrigation Installation Landscape Lighting HOA Maintenance Synthetic Turf Concrete Work Bark/Mulch Drainage 3 Tier Water Features We specialize in: Scan to request a quote! Call: 425-432-5277 Email: Office@CedarCountyLandscaping.com Call or Email us today!
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 11 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
Proudly partnering to build City of black diamond’s future! Our mission is to be the contractor of choice by our clients, employees, and the communities in which we live and work. GOODFELLOWBROS.COM office locations in washington, oregon, california and hawaii EARTHWORK EXCAVATION SITE PREPARATION BLASTING CRUSHING grading STRUCTURAL CONCRETE paving ...and more Goodfellow Bros. (GBI) is a fourth-generation family-owned large heavy-civil contractor with headquarters in Washington and Hawaii with 103 years of experience in the construction industry. The success of our company has been a direct result of our steadfast reputation built on quality, safety, trust and respect – and a sound work ethic surpassing four generations of ownership. Of our numerous awards and accomplishments, we are most proud of the loyalty and longevity of our clients and the quality and dedication of our employees who inspired our mission statement, to be the contractor of choice by our employees, clients and the communities in which we live and work.
Ten Trails: The Perfect Blend of Nature, Community, and Modern Living in Historic Black Diamond, WA TenTrails.com
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. Founded by immigrants who first came to the Cascade foothills in the 1880s to mine coal, Black Diamond is a community rich in history and cultural identity known for its small-town neighborliness and welcoming spirit. From the historic train depot turned history museum to the regionally famous Black Diamond Bakery, residents and visitors alike show an appreciation for what’s familiar as well as new adventures. Ideal for families and residents who embrace an active outdoor lifestyle, Black Diamond is surrounded by Cascade forests with two state parks nearby and Lake Sawyer, offering a variety of water sports including boating, fishing, swimming and water skiing. Two of the Cascade’s most popular winter destinations, Crystal Mountain, with its 50 ski runs, and Mount Rainier are only an hour’s drive away. Black Diamond’s many amenities embrace its history with longstanding traditions, festivals and events, such as the annual Black Diamond Miner’s Day, while adding new activities including the annual Christmas tree lighting complete with Santa hosted by Ten Trails, a 4,500 -home, masterplanned community within the city. Ten Trails also provides summer-in-the-park concerts and movie nights, sunset markets and seasonal holiday celebrations, along with many miles of hiking and biking trails open to the public. 14 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
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. 15 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
CREATING VIBRANT, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES: Parametrix and City of Black Diamond’s 20-Year Partnership The City of Black Diamond, nestled in the foothills of Mount Rainier in Washington State, offers a rural, small-town atmosphere, but is growing rapidly. It’s crucial for the city to maintain its rural feel while incorporating innovative and resilient infrastructure to accommodate this growth. Parametrix, an engineering and consulting firm based in Western Washington, is partnering with the city to ensure that its infrastructure grows sustainably to meet the increasing demands of the community and region. Parametrix has supported local governments with civil and environmental services for over 50 years. The firm’s partnership with the City of Black Diamond dates back nearly 20 years when Parametrix was hired to work on development review projects. Since then, the two have partnered on a range of projects with Parametrix providing services that include environmental documentation, master development planning and engineering, traffic planning, civil engineering design, and construction support. parametrix.com Delivering innovative, resilient infrastructure solutions for future generations.
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 17 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
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 TEN TRAILS MASTER PLAN At David Evans and Associates, Inc., we are creating a different future – working together to improve the quality of life while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environments. CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | IDAHO | MISSISSIPPI | NEVADA NEW YORK | OREGON | TEXAS | UTAH | WASHINGTON www.deainc.com 18 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08
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 police department is dedicated to fostering strong, positive relationships within the community through proactive community policing efforts. By embedding officers within neighborhoods, they ensure that they become familiar faces, building trust and open lines of communication with residents. Their approach emphasizes collaboration, where officers work closely with community members to address local concerns, prevent crime, and enhance public safety. 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 Black Diamond Chevron 30712 3rd Ave, Black Diamond, WA 98010 (253) 632 8847 Manny rajinder_bains@comcast.net Diamond Market LLC 19 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
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. Civil Engineering • Structural Engineering • Community Planning • Landscape Architecture • Land Survey Community Planning Services: • Comprehensive Planning • Land Use Permits and Entitlements • Master Planning and Design • On-call Agency Consulting Services • SEPA/NEPA Environmental Review Solution-based designs built on 55 years experience Tacoma • Seattle • Spokane • Tri-Cities City of Black Diamond Master Development Review Team View our full list of Community Planning Services at www.ahbl.com 20 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08
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PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Ash And Elm Play Studio www.ashandelmplay.com n Black Diamond Dentistry www.blackdiamonddentistry.com n Cedar County Landscaping www.cedarcountylandscaping.com Cedar County Landscaping Inc has been providing luxury landscaping to the South King County area for almost 30 years. We are a “onestop shop” for all of your landscaping needs. Give us a call to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced estimators to receive your free quote. n Goodfellow Bros. www.goodfellowbros.com n Oakpointe www.tentrails.com Ten Trails is a 2,200-acre, master planned community at 32607 Willow Avenue SE in Black Diamond, Washington, designed for families and residents who embrace an active outdoor lifestyle. Developed by Oakpointe Communities, Ten Trails offers parks and trails, technologically advanced and amenity-filled homes, future schools, local shops and offices, all with proximity to major metropolitan areas and some of the region’s largest employers. For more information, call 360-469-4043 or visit www.tentrails.com n Parametrix www.parametrix.com Parametrix is a 100% employee-owned firm helping to deliver resilient infrastructure, livable communities, and environmentally sustainable solutions. From offices across the Western United States, our team of engineers, planners, scientists, landscape architects, surveyors, project managers, and construction managers are helping our clients imagine what’s possible and create tomorrow, together. n Varius Inc. www.variusinc.com Varius Inc. is an innovative, women-owned engineering firm specializing in development review, earthquake early warning technology, emergency response planning, facility and project design, project and construction management, and expert witness testimony for municipal engineering and construction. n David Evans and Associates, Inc. www.deainc.com David Evans and Associates, Inc.is a multidisciplinary, employee-owned firm that combines the talents of engineers, landscape architects, planners, surveyors, and scientists who are committed to improving the quality of life, while demonstrating stewardship of the built and natural environments. Since 1976, DEA has been a recognized leader for progressive and sustainable design. n Diamond Market rajinder_bains@comcast.net Diamond Market dba Diamond Market Chevron - Diamond Market is Dedicated to providing access to an extensive range of products and services tailored to the needs of our customers. We are a family owned/operated business and we focus on convenience, connection, and community. We aren’t just another corner store but a Hub for the Black Diamond Community. n AHBL Inc www.ahbl.com AHBL is proud to provide on-call planning services to Black Diamond’s growing community! AHBL provides planning, landscape architecture, civil and structural engineering, and land surveying from our offices in Tacoma, Seattle, Spokane, and the Tri-Cities. Our expertise includes comprehensive/subarea planning, development regulations/codes, land use entitlements, and urban design. Our staff has decades of experience working with cities, counties, tribes, school districts, and private sector clients. 22 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 08
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