Kirkland residents are invited to provide comments by Oct. 29 on the 2014 Surface Water Master Plan (SWMP). The SWMP identifies programs and projects that will be used by the city to reduce flooding and to improve and protect streams, lakes and stormwater systems. The draft document is available online at www.kirklandwwa.gov (search “2014 Surface Water Master Plan”), at the Kirkland City Hall reference desk, or by calling 425-587-3800.  Comments can be provided via e-mail to jgaus@kirklandwa.gov or via mail addressed to the City of Kirkland Public Works Department, 123 Fifth Avenue, Kirkland, WA 98033. The SWMP is expected to be adopted by City Council in November 2014.

The SWMP recommends priorities and projects, identified through public outreach, for the next ten years of operation of the Surface Water Utility.  An updated SWMP is needed to reflect the addition of public stormwater infrastructure with the annexation of Finn Hill, Juanita and Kingsgate, the re-issued National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Municipal Stormwater Permit which requires the City to take certain actions to control stormwater pollution, and the need to integrate stormwater programs and projects into current City goals and interests.

Examples of program recommendations in the SWMP include increased TV inspection of stormwater pipes to promote sound management of these assets, creation of tools to assist developers in implementing new stormwater design regulations that the city is required to adopt, and continued incorporation of Low Impact Development Stormwater techniques such as rain gardens and permeable pavements into neighborhoods through capital construction and education programs. The SWMP also includes recommended capital construction projects such as reconstruction and/or rehabilitation of city stormwater systems to maintain capacity and prevent flooding, installation of water quality treatment to serve existing development, and culvert replacements to improve fish passage in streams.

Surface water is managed for public safety and for the benefit of all who fish and swim in streams and lakes in Kirkland. The city has a strong connection to the water and natural environment and its Surface Water Utility is a steward of these resources with goals to manage surface water and stormwater so that:

• Flooding is reduced

• Water quality is improved

• Stormwater Infrastructure is protected and maintained

• Aquatic habitat conditions are improved