TagEnvironmental Justice(63)

This appendix from the Destination 2030 Metropolitan Transportation Plan examines environmental justice in the central Puget Sound region, analyzing how transportation costs and benefits are distributed among minority and low-income populations across King, Kitsap, Pierce, and Snohomish counties. Using 1990 Census data and 1997–1998 estimates, it finds that low-income populations are concentrated in Seattle, Tacoma, and Everett, while the region's minority population stands at roughly 15 percent, with the highest concentrations in northern Pierce County and southwestern King County. The analysis was conducted to ensure that burdens and benefits of the regional transportation plan are equitably shared across groups defined by race, income, age, or disability.

A University of Washington Epidemiology researcher, Anna Harrington, presents findings showing that communities near Seattle-Tacoma International Airport have higher rates of preterm births and are home to a disproportionate share of King County's people of color and low-income residents. The presentation proposes a qualitative research study to explore how airport community stakeholders perceive the public health risks of SeaTac air pollution on pregnant people, and what barriers they face in reducing that exposure. The study aims to understand whether risk perceptions and mitigation strategies differ based on the racial identity and income level of pregnant individuals.

Letter from KCIACC and community organizations supporting Ordinance 2022-0011, which calls for environmental and health impact assessments at King County International Airport and establishment of a community-led advisory committee. The letter emphasizes the need for community benefits agreements and environmental justice for communities disproportionately impacted by airport operations.

A 2021 presentation by Public Health Seattle and King County examines how noise and air pollution from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) affect nearby communities. It covers community health profiles, the current strength of scientific evidence, a University of Washington study on ultrafine particles (UFP), and recommendations for addressing health impacts. The affected communities are notably diverse, with people of color — particularly Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander and Black/African American residents — making up a disproportionately large share of the airport-area population compared to King County as a whole.

The Washington 2021 State Energy Strategy, published by the Washington State Department of Commerce in December 2020, outlines a blueprint for transitioning the state to clean energy by 2050, with the goal of nearly eliminating fossil fuel use while sustaining economic growth. The strategy emphasizes affordable and reliable energy, meeting science-based greenhouse gas emission limits, and ensuring that Tribes, rural communities, and low-income households are included as partners in the transition. Note: this document addresses statewide energy and climate policy and does not contain content related to Sea-Tac Airport noise policy.

A University of Washington study found that King County neighborhoods with the highest air pollution levels, concentrated in South King County, also experienced the highest COVID-19 infection rates. These areas are predominantly lower-income communities of color with below-average COVID-19 testing access. Researchers note that environmental health disparities, not air pollution as a direct cause, mirror the patterns of COVID-19 spread, and call for more testing resources and culturally appropriate outreach in affected communities.

Port of Seattle Commission resolution establishing the Century Agenda Policy Directive to codify goals guiding strategic planning, budget, and resource allocation. The resolution formalizes the Port’s 25-year vision of adding 100,000 jobs while reducing environmental footprint, and incorporates amendments for carbon emission reduction goals and increased participation by minority and women-owned businesses.

In November 2018, the Port of Seattle Commission set aside $10 million over five years (2019–2023) to benefit near-airport communities in South King County, with funds intended to address airport noise and support environmental health and sustainability projects. In June 2019, the Commission adopted eight guiding principles to govern the fund, emphasizing community input, equity, innovation, and matching funds where possible. This May 2020 presentation to the Highline Forum provided an update on the fund's progress and priorities.