Consider Request to Vacate Road Easement between 5805 and 5860 148th Lane NW

In March of 2020, the Planning Commission reviewed and approved a variance related to the proposed location of a detached accessory building at 5805 148th Lane NW.  As part of that discussion and approval, the Planning Commission directed Staff to initiate the process to vacate approximately 600 feet of existing roadway easement between 5805 and 5860 148th Lane (the "Subject Properties").  

15 minutes

The existing road easement extends from the Subject Properties eastern boundaries west a bit over 600 feet.  A road was never constructed within this portion of the easement and the City Attorney has stated that since no there has never been any road improvement within this portion of the easement and since the City has not maintained this portion of the easement, it is not 'open' to use by the general public.  It is worth noting that the segment of 148th Lane NW west of Nowthen Boulevard is gravel; it has never been upgraded to a paved street.  

Just west of where the road easement terminates is a large wetland complex, which really diminishes the likelihood of further development west of the Subject Properties.  Thus, the only potential scenario in which the easement could be necessary would be if either of the Subject Properties wanted to subdivide in the future.  However, the Subject Properties are zoned R-1 Residential (MUSA) and guided Low Density Residential (LDR) in the Comprehensive Plan, which would require extension of sewer and water.  While there is a trunk sanitary sewer line west of the terminus of this road easement (through the wetland complex), the nearest trunk water line is along Nowthen Boulevard.  Furthermore, there is also wetland over portions of the Subject Properties as well, further diminishing the potential for subdivision.

As can be seen from the aerial view of the Subject Properties, there is no cul-de-sac bulb where 148th Lane currently terminates.  Should the easement be vacated, a small bulb would be constructed, presumably within the existing sixty-six (66) foot wide corridor, creating some maneuverability for large vehicles (plow trucks, garbage/recycling trucks, etc.).  While it would not meet current standards, it would be an improvement from what exists presently.

Alternatives:

Alternative 1: Motion to recommend City Council vacate that portion of road easement generally from the eastern boundaries of the Subject Properties west to its terminus and direct staff to develop plans to construct a cul-de-sac bulb within the existing, remaining easement area.

Alternative 2: Motion to recommend City Council vacate that portion of road easement generally from the eastern boundaries of the Subject Properties west to its terminus and direct staff to work the the owners of the Subject Properties to obtain a greater radius for a cul-de-sac bulb.

Alternative 3: Motion to recommend that the City Council not vacate this existing roadway easement.

This case is being handled as part of Staff's regular duties, based on direction from the Planning Commission.

Staff supports vacating the western segment of this roadway easement contingent upon construction of a cul-de-sac bulb that provides some room for vehicle maneuverability (either within the existing easement boundaries or approaching the owners of the Subject Properties to widen the easement area for the cul-de-sac bulb).

Motion to recommend City Council vacate the western segment of this roadway easement.