Regarding the latest proposed warehouse development on the former Weyerhaeuser campus in Federal Way, it seems to be déjà vu all over again. There are some very obvious facts that cannot be denied.

This is one of the last undeveloped tracts in the city, centered by an historic and architecturally honored building. While recognizing that the current owner IRG has the right to develop their land, they also have a responsibility to do so in a manner that does not degrade the quality of life in the community and adversely affect the surrounding environment.

Federal Way has strived for, and has stated goals, to be a quality place to do business, build families and set high standards for quality of life and preservation of the natural beauty that exists here. The proposed use for massive warehouse developments does nothing to promote these interests. The proposed use can only degrade the surrounding neighborhoods, choke already taxed two lane streets and intersections, and cause severe impacts to the property values of its surroundings.

This development is completely unsuited to this property and this location. Impacts on the narrow roads and local environment, I believe, have been grossly underestimated.

At the least, comprehensive environmental impacts need to be examined, not only for this project, but for the property as a whole.

If the best use IRG can find for this property is the destruction of its unique character and beauty to tide flats like warehouses, with traffic that will overwhelm existing infrastructure, and have unexamined environmental impact, then we truly will be a poorer community. The city of Federal Way and its citizens deserve better.

Allen Nelson

Federal Way