King County Moves To Preserve Former Asphalt Plant Site Along Cedar River

King County officials are moving to acquire and permanently preserve the former Cedar River Asphalt Plant site, a property long targeted for industrial development that could instead become a regional public asset.

Council Vice Chair Reagan Dunn, who also chairs the King County Flood Control District, announced the plan alongside other councilmembers last week. The County and Flood Control District are seeking to purchase the land from Lakeside Industries and protect it for future public use.

“For years, I have been committed to doing everything I can to protect the Cedar River corridor for future generations,” Dunn said. “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to preserve this land and ensure that the property can be permanently enjoyed by the public, adjacent communities and County residents. I want to sincerely thank Lakeside Industries for acting as a good neighbor and conscientious company by opening the door to a purchase.”

The announcement follows a joint letter sent by Dunn and Councilmember Rod Dembowski to Lakeside Industries outlining their intention to work with the company and local environmental and community leaders to secure the site for public ownership.

The effort builds on a July 2025 agreement in which Dunn, Lakeside Industries, and local community leaders halted plans for an asphalt plant at the site, replacing it with a scaled-back commercial warehouse proposal. The new push aims for full public acquisition to ensure the land is preserved in perpetuity.

“I commend Councilmember Dunn for his work to bring this unique property into public ownership,” Dembowski said. “The potential for a trailhead, open space, athletic fields, and other public uses makes this site very desirable to protect. We are committed to securing the funding needed to protect it in perpetuity.”

Lakeside Industries has told county officials it is open to working toward a mutually beneficial acquisition of the property.

“Lakeside Industries has listened to its neighbors and is putting preservation ahead of profits. They deserve commendation,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer.

The Flood Control District has already identified $5 million in strategic acquisition funds, ordered an appraisal, and passed a motion directing its Executive Director to pursue a purchase strategy—a move unanimously approved earlier this month. Additional funding opportunities are being considered in the County’s 2026–27 budget and other public funding sources.

“I believe this will be an excellent application of public preservation funds that aligns with our King County values and speaks to our commitment to protecting our waterways, salmon, and other wildlife habitat,” said Councilmember Sarah Perry. “I’m pleased to partner with Councilmember Dunn in exploring ways to acquire and preserve this unique, multi-use property for generations to come.”

Located along SR-169 and the Cedar River, the site has drawn community opposition for over eight years. The group Save the Cedar River formed in response to the original asphalt plant proposal, raising environmental concerns and partnering in the 2025 agreement that ended the plant plans.

“Our regional trail network will benefit from this open space creating an access point for families and people of all ages to walk, hike, bike, and explore the outdoors,” said Councilmember De’Sean Quinn. “This land is destined to become a real public asset to South King County, not only to reducing flood risks on the Cedar, but also building long-term resilience for our communities.”

Public ownership of the site would prevent future industrial development, protect fish habitat and the Cedar River corridor, and connect with nearby trails and open spaces. The acquisition also supports the County’s broader goal to conserve key natural and green spaces over the next 30 years.

“The purchase of this property represents a major win-win for our community,” Dunn said. “I am thrilled to have helped reach a resolution that benefits all stakeholders and our environment.”

The County and Flood Control District will continue engaging with Lakeside Industries and partners as they complete due diligence, secure funding, and finalize an appraisal of the site.

“The acquisition of this property is a community-oriented solution that addresses the concerns of citizens across Renton and Maple Valley, as well as unincorporated residents in the Renton Highlands and Fairwood,” said Council Chair Girmay Zahilay. “King County does its best work when we listen to the needs of our residents.”