The Bellevue Planning Commission tonight will consider proposed Comprehensive Plan amendments that would allow more community-oriented retail and mixed-use development in the Wilburton/NE 8th Street commercial corridor.

The economics have been changing for the area, which includes Auto Row, and city planners studied possible Comprehensive Plan amendments in 2006. After additional input from property owners, staff refined those amendments.

A public hearing on the proposed amendments is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m. at City Hall. 

The Planning Commission will subsequently advise the City Council to approve or reject Comprehensive Plan amendments.

The aim behind the amendments concerning the Wilburton/NE 8th Street corridor is to encourage appropriate reinvestment as the area evolves. Over the last several years, auto dealerships have moved in and out of the area, City Hall has been moved from the area and new Overlake and Group Health hospital buildings have been under construction. The Wilburton commercial area will continue to experience changes as land values rise.

The proposed amendments identify and support the vision for the Wilburton commercial area as a place that includes retail auto sales, commercial uses that complement downtown Bellevue, additional retail services and the opportunity for new mixed-use developments. The amendments support a future rezone from "general commercial" to "community business" for a portion of the area and extensions for Northeast Fourth and Sixth streets east to 120th Avenue.

Return to News Release Index