WWW.COVINGTONWA.GOV COVINGTON WASHINGTON ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
COVINGTON, WA ROOTED IN CO AT A GLANCE COVINGTON, WASHINGTON WHAT: A thriving municipality that is incorporating bold initiatives to cater to its valued residents and those set to explore its wonders WHERE: Washington, USA WEBSITE: www.covingtonwa.gov 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
OMMUNITY A MODEL FOR COMMUNITY WELLNESS, CONNECTIVITY, AND GROWTH Nestled in the scenic Pacific Northwest, just a short drive from the slopes of Crystal Mountain and the trails of Mount Rainier National Park, Covington, Washington, is a city with a deep love for the outdoors—and an even deeper commitment to community. With its energetic event calendar, strategic economic planning, and innovative civic projects, Covington is creating a new blueprint for suburban success rooted in health, engagement, and resilience. 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
Though modest in size, Covington’s ambition is anything but. From building a first-of-its-kind health district to redeveloping 230 acres into a lakefront neighborhood, the city is thinking big while staying grounded in its “clean, safe, welcome” philosophy. And through it all, Covington’s leaders are committed to preserving the small-town charm that has long made it a magnet for families, professionals, and businesses alike. A COMMUNITY THAT SHOWS UP In Covington, community engagement isn’t just encouraged—it’s embedded into the city’s DNA. Whether it’s drive-in movies in the summer, the Covington Maker’s Market, concerts in the park, or the annual Covington Days Festival, city events regularly draw thousands of residents for family-friendly fun. One of the city’s most impactful initiatives is the Ready, Set, Play program. Launched in collaboration with local businesses, this summer program provides elementary and middle school students the opportunity to earn “Brag Badges” picked up at participating retailers after kids complete activities like brushing their teeth, going on a hike, or making their beds. For families, it’s a fun and cost-effective way to stay active. For businesses, it’s a win-win— drawing foot traffic and reinforcing local loyalty. “It’s been one of our most popular programs,” Regan Bolli, Covington City Manager, relays. “Parents love it. Kids love it. And our businesses really get behind it. It’s community-building at its best.” KARMA THE CHAMELEON: BRANDING WITH HEART Covington’s community spirit is also embodied in its beloved mascot—Karma the Chameleon. Featured at city events and in social media campaigns, Karma is part ambassador, part educator, and all personality. The city has cleverly integrated Karma into promotional materials and youth activities, helping to foster a sense of identity and engagement across age groups. Karma has also become a mainstay in Covington’s social media strategy, where the city regularly shares video clips, community updates, and light3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 COVINGTON, WA
hearted content that keeps residents informed and connected. One recent video from a State of the City event drew thousands of views and became a talking point throughout the region. “We don’t just rely on press releases anymore,” Mayor Jeff Wagner offers.“We meet our residents where they are—online, at events, and in their neighborhoods.” BUILDING FOR WELLNESS: A FIRST-OF-ITSKIND HEALTH DISTRICT At the heart of Covington’s long-term vision is a groundbreaking civic development project: the creation of a new city center that includes a community center, city hall, and a comprehensive health district. The city recently acquired the old Covington Elementary School site to anchor this initiative, turning a nostalgic space into a modern hub of wellness and civic life. The concept is bold—pairing medical services with fitness amenities, wellness education, and public programming. Powered by partnerships with regional healthcare providers, the health district aims to make preventive and holistic healthcare accessible to all. Covington is also incorporating Techno Gym equipment and wellness technology to support healthy habits. Inspired by the Blue Zones movement— areas of the world known for high life expectancy and well-being—the district is designed to promote longevity and social connection through active design, walkability, and communal programming. “We’re not just building a clinic or a gym,” Bolli adds. “We’re building a place where wellness is woven into everyday life.” THE LAKEPOINTE DEVELOPMENT: A VISION FOR SUSTAINABLE GROWTH Just down the road from the future city center, Covington is transforming a 230-acre former gravel pit into one of the most ambitious mixeduse developments in the region. Known as the Lakepointe Development, the project will include up to 1,750 residential units and 1.3 million square feet of commercial space, connected to the rest of the city by the new Covington Connector road. 4 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
At the heart of the development will be a 19acre lake, open to non-motorized activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. The area will feature trails, green spaces, and a network of streets designed with pedestrians and cyclists in mind. “This isn’t just about adding rooftops,” Mayor Wagner states.“It’s about creating a lifestyle—one that reflects Covington’s values around nature, connectivity, and community.” A CLEAN, SAFE, AND WELCOMING DOWNTOWN Even as it grows, Covington remains laser-focused on quality of life. Its “Clean, Safe, Welcome” campaign includes a multi-pronged approach to maintaining a vibrant and accessible downtown. A clean team has been deployed to handle maintenance, while volunteer programs encourage community members to join in beautification efforts. Crime prevention is another priority. The city has launched a “See, Say, Do” pledge, empowering residents to report suspicious behavior, get involved, and help keep Covington safe. In a move applauded by business owners, the city also implemented a Business and Occupation (B&O) tax specifically earmarked for public safety—a rare example of private enterprise directly funding civic security. “We work closely with our businesses,” Bolli expands. 5 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 COVINGTON, WA
In a youth sports world often driven by pressure and competition, Valor Soccer offers something different: a place where character, community, and development come first; and success on the field quickly follows. Formed in 2019 from the merger of Kent Covington Youth Soccer and Maple Valley Soccer Association,Valor builds on decades of grassroots tradition.Today, it serves families across Auburn, Kent, Covington, Maple Valley, Ravensdale, Black Diamond, Enumclaw, and Buckley. With thoughtfully designed programs —TOPSoccer, Premier, Select, Jr. Academy, Recreational, FirstKick, along with a Nationally Competitive Elite league with college exposure—Valor ensures every child has a place to play and grow, regardless of skill, ability, or aspiration. What sets Valor apart is its purpose-driven approach. Coaches focus as much on building respect, teamwork, and resilience as they do on technical skill.The goal? To shape well-rounded individuals who thrive on and off the field. Valor isn’t just a club—it’s a community hub, rooted in local values and committed to youth development. Every training session and match is a step toward something bigger: confident kids, connected families, and a stronger community. AT VALOR SOCCER, THE GAME IS JUST THE BEGINNING. Soccer for every age, level, and expectation! Valor Soccer serves the community with 9 developmental clubs. Each of these programs provides a fundamental service to the youth participants in the community, ensuring every child has the chance to play soccer. www.valorsoccer.com Learn More
A CORNERSTONE OF COVINGTON’S GROWTH AND PROSPERITY Kent School District (KSD) is proud to be recognized as a key contributor to the City of Covington’s dynamic growth and transformation. Serving over 25,000 students across 44 schools, KSD is more than an educational institution, it’s a strategic partner in shaping Covington’s future. Recognized by city leadership for its vital role in development and quality of life, KSD supports Covington’s vision through: • Educational Excellence: High-quality instruction prepares students for college, careers, and civic leadership. • Community Engagement: Strong partnerships with families, businesses, and local organizations foster a connected and resilient community. • Support for Growth: Excellent schools are a key factor in attracting new residents, businesses, and employers seeking a skilled and educated community. With a graduation rate above the state average, a 1:1 student-to-laptop ratio, and programs in STEAM, dual language, and career & technical education, KSD is preparing global citizens for tomorrow’s challenges. KSD’s schools are a key factor in attracting families to the area, enhancing Covington’s appeal as a place to live, work, and grow.The district also collaborates with local organizations and city leaders to support youth programs, family engagement, and community events, enriching the lives of residents. As Covington grows, Kent School District remains a trusted partner in helping shape a community where families thrive, businesses grow, and education leads the way. COVINGTON, WA
“They understand that a safe, clean downtown benefits everyone—shoppers, workers, and visitors alike.” A REGIONAL HUB FOR RETAIL AND HEALTHCARE Covington has emerged as both a retail and medical hub for southeast King County. Major retailers such as Fred Meyer, Costco, Home Depot, Walmart, Safeway, and Kohl’s draw consumers from surrounding communities, while the city’s medical sector continues to expand to meet growing demand. Valley Medical Center and MultiCare Health Systems have established strong footholds in the city, supported in part by Covington’s high insured rate. These providers not only deliver care locally but also use the revenue from their Covington locations to subsidize services in less profitable areas. “We’re proud of our role in the region,” Bolli enthuses. “Whether it’s retail, healthcare, or housing, we’re helping to meet critical needs beyond our city limits.” NAVIGATING GROWTH AND STATEWIDE POLICY CHALLENGES As with many fast-growing cities in Washington, Covington faces challenges related to state land use laws and unfunded mandates. City officials have been vocal in advocating for local control, emphasizing the importance of community-specific planning over one-size-fits-all regulation. “We want to grow smart, not just fast,” Bolli says.“But we also need support from the state to do that in a way that serves our people.” Despite these hurdles, the city remains optimistic. With strong leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and an engaged citizenry, Covington is wellpositioned to manage growth while staying true to its roots. LOOKING AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF COVINGTON As Covington continues to evolve, its leaders Homes available nationwide. Photos are images only and should not be relied upon to confirm applicable features. This is not an offering where prohibited by law. TollBrothers.com/MH Building Beautiful Luxury Homes in the Puget Sound Area Decorated Model Homes | Home Personalization | Exceptional Service Priced from the mid-$600,000s to $2.7 million 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
remain focused on fostering a community that is welcoming, walkable, and well. The development of the civic campus and health district, the activation of Lakepointe, and the expansion of programs like Ready, Set, Play are all part of a broader vision for a healthier, happier Covington. “It’s about living well and connecting well,” Mayor Wagner concludes. “We’re building a city where people want to stay—not just pass through.” From its trails and trees to its schools and small businesses, Covington is proving that growth and community aren’t mutually exclusive—they’re mutually reinforcing.And with Karma the Chameleon leading the way, there’s no doubt the city’s future is bright, vibrant, and full of heart. BrookfieldResidentialLand.com LakePointe is the next chapter in Brookfield Residential’s legacy of master-planned communities, connecting people, place, and purpose. This proposed community is anticipated to have nearly 1,000 homes set among a lake, parks, trails, and open spaces—designed with the care and expertise that define Brookfield Residential. Opportunity starts here. A Recognized Leader in North America’s Land Development 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09 COVINGTON, WA
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Valor Soccer www.valorsoccer.com At Valor Soccer, we believe that true success is defined not just by goals scored or games won, but by the strength of our character. Through Courage, Integrity, and Honor, we develop not just players—but leaders for life through programs designed for all levels of play. n Kent School District www.kent.k12.wa.us Kent School District is one of the largest and most diverse districts in Washington State. Located in the heart of King County, the district is regarded for its excellent educators, commitment to all students, strong financial management, innovative classroom technology, and coordinated school safety. n Toll Brothers www.tollbrothers.com/WA Toll Brothers, Inc., a Fortune 500 Company, is the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes. With 50+ years of experience building luxury homes, Toll Brothers is distinguished by prestigious locations, distinctive architecture, unrivaled choice, and extraordinary customer service. Visit TollBrothers.com/WA for more information on new home communities in the Puget Sound area or call 844-845-5263. n Brookfield Residential www.brookfieldresidentialland.com Brookfield Residential is a leading land developer in North America with more than 65 years of experience, providing comprehensive solutions from land acquisition through to lot delivery, supported by strategic capital, market expertise, and a strong focus on placemaking that creates lasting value for builders, partners, and communities. 10 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 09
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