The Department of Planning and Development (DPD) is pleased to present the draft Shoreline Master Program (SMP) regulations and proposed amendments to the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Accompanying these documents is the Director’s Report that summarizes the proposed changes to the SMP. We encourage you to review these documents and send us your comments. The documents are available on CD or hard copy by request, and at the following website: http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/Planning/ShorelineMasterProgramUpdate/Overview/

The update of the City’s SMP regulations is mandated by the Washington Department of Ecology. The SMP constitutes the policies and regulations governing development and uses on and adjacent to marine and freshwater shorelines. This includes the waters of Puget Sound, Lake Washington, Lake Union/Ship Canal, the Duwamish River and Green Lake, as well as associated wetlands and floodplains. These policies and regulations affect land uses, structure bulk and setbacks, public access requirements, bulkheads, docks, piers, and construction practices.

In addition to the draft regulations and polices DPD will be releasing a restoration plan in March 2011. The restoration plan is part of the SMP.

Please provide your written comments by May 16, 2011, to Margaret Glowacki via e-mail at margaret.glowacki@seattle.gov or via US mail at:

Margaret Glowacki, City of Seattle – DPD, 700 Fifth Ave. Suite 2000, P.O. Box 34019, Seattle, WA 98124-4019

In March, DPD will host a public meeting to present information on the SMP update process and the proposed amendments. In the spring, Mayor McGinn will submit legislation to City Council. City Council will provide additional opportunities for public participation before adopting legislation.