Restored Renton wetlands to offset development losses

Published 5:45 am Friday, June 19, 2009

SEATTLE — About 130 acres of restored wetlands in the Renton area will open with new trails and a wildlife corridor for hawks and bald eagles.

State and local officials set a today celebration of the completed Springbrook Creek Wetland and Habitat Mitigation Bank, the largest urban wetland in central Puget Sound.

The project along Interstate 405 helps offset losses from development and transportation projects. The Washington Department of Transportation teamed up with the city of Renton.

The area creates habitat for red-tailed hawks, raccoon, beaver, frogs and great blue herons. There’s also an interpretive boardwalk trail to educate the public on the benefits of wetlands.