Motel Sites on T.I.B.

Introduction

Safety along Tukwila International Boulevard is a major concern for the City. Certain areas along Tukwila International Boulevard have long been identified as “hot spots”, where a large amount of serious crime occurs. In early 2013 the City’s Police Department evaluated crime for all commercial properties in the Tukwila community renewal area and recommended the City purchase certain properties in order to reduce crime. On April 22, 2013 the City Council approved an ordinance authorizing the City to use condemnation, if necessary, to purchase up to seven specific properties in Tukwila’s community renewal area as part of the community renewal project as a way to improve safety and revitalize the neighborhood. In August 2013 with help from the City of Tukwila, the Federal Government seized three motels in this same neighborhood due to high crime. Two of those motels were already on the City’s potential purchase list.

Project Status

The City purchased the Great Bear, Boulevard, and Traveler’s Choice motels from the Federal Government in August of 2014. The City purchased the Spruce Motel in February 2015 and the Sam Smoke Shop in September 2015.

It could be a few years until the City has sold the properties to a developer or decided some alternative use, so the buildings will be demolished in order to ensure the properties are as attractive and safe as possible.

In 2015 the City executed a contract with PBS Engineering and Environmental, Inc. Their engineering group will work with City staff to survey the property, document existing conditions, estimate demolition and site preparation costs, develop project plans and specifications for demolition, and facilitate the bid process. A call for bids is anticipated to be issued in October and awarded in November 2015. The demolition is expected to start in December 2015 and be completed by the summer of 2016.

Timeline

February 2015	City purchased Spruce Motel
November 2014	City contracted with PBS Engineering and Environmental Inc. to conduct survey and demolition project plans.
August 2014	City purchased Great Bear, Boulevard, and Travelers Choice motels
March 2014	Owner of Great Bear sentenced
August and September 2013	Started negotiations
August 27, 2013	Law enforcement search and seizure of certain motels
July 2013	Completed appraisals
April 22, 2013	Council adopted condemnation ordinance

City Council Meetings

December 1, 2014	Council approved motion to contract with PBS Engineering and Environmental, Inc.
January 21, 2014	Council approved motion to purchase Traveler’s Choice motel.
April 22, 2013	Informational Memo
March 25, 2013	Presentation

Documents

Public Notification

For More Information

Contact Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator at: 206-433-1832 or Derek.speck@tukwilawa.gov

Government