Outreach Updates!

What have we done so far?

• Interactive Community Engagement: Hosted and joined over 15 interactive events at various locations in multiple languages.
• Engaged with youth and students to understand their aspirations and concerns.
• Conducted a community survey with 448 participants.
• Incorporated community input and existing conditions into three future growth alternatives that will be analyzed in a Draft Environmental Impact Statement.

(From left to right) Engagement Activities in 2023: Teddy Bear Clinic, International Festival, Game of Jobs and Homes, Khalsa Day

What have we learned so far?

Inclusive + Diverse + Dynamic

The various community engagement activities highlighted a future that prioritizes community wellness, a healthy environment, and housing options for all. Participants voiced support for a welcoming, collaborative, and inclusive community where residents are valued and their cultures and varying perspectives continue to be celebrated. The community emphasized the need for diverse and affordable housing options, suggesting measures such as integrating mixed-use developments into the existing neighborhoods, supporting neighborhood scaled commercial to activate places while creating or enhancing a person’s connection to Kent.

Forward Thinking + Sustainable + Connected

Community engagement participants desire more connections to services and places through more east-west public transit options and, overall, safer connections throughout the City. Ultimately, leading to better mobility for all, particularly for folks that need direct access to essential services. Participants also emphasized the desire for an economic landscape that attracts and sustains industries for well-paying jobs. Innovation hubs, job training programs, and increased collaboration with local businesses were specific ideas. While mobility and economic development were important to residents, participants underscored the importance of protecting the green spaces and natural areas that are characteristic of Kent and the need to implement strategies that address environmental justice inequities.