Burien leaders approved high-density zoning for equitable housing—but rising sewer fees in Boulevard Park could undermine affordability and impact development.
As the City of Burien plans for 7,500 new housing units by 2044—many of them in high-density and affordable developments—new infrastructure costs are raising red flags for residents and builders alike. In particular, a dramatic increase in sewer connection fees from Valley View Sewer District could have a major impact on the feasibility of new homes in neighborhoods like Boulevard Park.
While most of Burien is served by Southwest Suburban Sewer District (SWSSD) (with a current connection fee of $5,252), areas in northeast Burien fall under the jurisdiction of Valley View Sewer, which is phasing in steep increases to its General Facility Charge (GFC):
These infrastructure fees are paid before construction begins, making them a major cost factor for both market-rate and income-restricted housing.
Affordability Concerns
A 20-unit apartment project in Valley View territory could face over $230,000 in sewer hookup fees alone—nearly triple what it would cost in SWSSD territory. As Burien aims to encourage high-density, transit-accessible, and affordable housing, this fee disparity could have real consequences.
Burien.News reached out to Burien Mayor Kevin Schilling, Deputy Mayor Sarah Moore (who lives in Boulevard Park), and City Manager Adolfo Bailon to ask how these rising costs will affect the city’s comprehensive housing plan. We asked “What role do you believe the City of Burien should take in mitigating these costs as we implement the 2044 Comprehensive Plan?”
The mayor and deputy mayor both declined to comment, and the city manager has yet to respond.
Valley View Responds
Valley View Sewer District (VVSD) General Manager Andrew LaRue did respond, explaining that the increases are based on the district’s $145 million capital needs, including replacing 50 miles of aging sewer lines throughout the VVSD. He noted that the new fees were set through a 2024 study and are being phased in gradually. He added:
“The District has routine coordination with the City of Burien regarding our Comprehensive Plan and the City’s Comprehensive Plan. [Some] Boulevard Park projects are expected to save property owners up to $100,000 per connection.”
LaRue also invited developers and residents to contact the district to learn more about upcoming grant opportunities for 2025–2026.
Looking Ahead
As Burien continues to rezone neighborhoods and push for greater housing density, the cost of basic infrastructure—including sewer service—will play a key role in determining where and whether affordable housing gets built.
With Valley View’s rising fees and no clear strategy yet from the city, the path forward may require stronger coordination between local governments and utility providers to ensure equitable, cost-effective development in all Burien neighborhoods.
What This Map Shows
- The green outline marks Valley View Sewer District’s full service boundary.
- The red outline marks Boulevard Park and northeast Burien which are inside this high-fee zone.
- The remainder of Burien falls under other districts (like SWSSD), which charge significantly lower GFCs.
Why It Matters
- Neighborhoods within the Valley View boundary are subject to steep GFC increases: up to $14,460 for single-family homes and nearly $11,568 for each multi-family unit by July 2026.
- These sharp cost differences could affect where developers choose to build, especially affordable and workforce housing.
- Having this visual tool helps residents, builders, and city planners identify which parts of Burien face higher infrastructure costs—crucial for effective planning and policy.
