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. 85 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 07 BLACK DIAMOND, WA
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