Our Renton

May 2026

New state parking law: What it means for Renton

IN 2025, Washington State passed the Parking Reform and Modernization Act (ESSB 5184). Renton has more than 50,000 residents (we’re at about 109,700), so we’re required to update our commercial and residential parking regulations to match these new statewide standards.

The changes aren’t optional — Renton is required by the state to adopt them by January 2027.

What state law requires

The new law limits how much parking cities can require for new developments and our rules have to reflect these standards. These changes do not affect ADA parking requirements or existing developments.

What this means for future development in Renton

Once the new rules are adopted:

We can’t require more parking than the state allows.
Developers can still choose to build more parking if they believe it’s needed.
Parking requirements will still vary based on project type, size, and state standards.

The city’s role

Here’s what we are responsible for:

Updating the Renton Municipal Code to comply with state law
Reviewing development applications using the new standards
Exploring ways — within state limits — to support parking needs

We are here to be your guide

We understand these changes may cause challenges. Throughout the spring and summer, our Planning team will be out at several city events to help you better understand these changes.

We also want to hear from you

While these changes are required by state law, your input still matters. Your experiences and concerns can help shape how Renton implements the new rules and where we focus our efforts.

For more information on the project and where to catch us for questions, visit our website at rentonwa.gov/ParkingReform.

RPD tips to prevent crime: Bike theft prevention tips

Protect your bike from theft. Use a sturdy U-lock, secure the frame and wheels to a solid object, avoid leaving bikes out overnight, store in a secure area, and register your serial number to aid recovery.

We want to hear from you! 2027-2028 Budget Survey now open through May 13

THE CITY OF RENTON is preparing the 2027–2028 biennial budget, which guides the services we provide you, and your input is essential. Our community-wide budget survey is open now through May 13.

Some residents may have already received an email or text from our research partner, ReconMR. If you’ve already taken the survey, thank you — your voice truly matters.

If you did not receive the survey, we’d love to hear your feedback at rentonwa.gov/BudgetSurvey.

2026 Legislative Session Recap

THIS YEAR’S short legislative session started on January 12 and ended on March 12. We focused our efforts on four priorities:

Public Defense
Transportation and Regional Connectivity
Public Safety
Shared Revenues

Our government relations team secured funding for the Renton Resource Center and SE 168th Street Bike Lanes/Safe Crossings. New state regulations and investments for public safety were passed, however no new funding or policies were set. The city was successful in preserving most state-shared revenues and expanding local revenue flexibility.

Transportation remains a priority for Renton. As our community grows, access to reliable transportation must grow with it. We will continue to advocate strongly for transportation projects and funding that deliver real benefits to our community. For the full recap, visit our website at rentonwa.gov/LegislativeAgenda.

Exciting improvements happening at the Senior Center!

The Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center is temporarily closed now through September 2026 while important Capital Improvement Project updates are underway. Enhancements include a new climate control system – heating and air conditioning, as well as everything from new windows to interior finishes.

Our Recreation team has done an outstanding job of ensuring the community connections built at the Senior Center remain consistent through ongoing programs, daily activities, and the vital lunch service held at the Renton Community Center, Liberty Park Recreation Building, and the Renton History Museum.

We’re especially grateful for the overwhelming appreciation and enthusiasm from participants. The end result will be an upgrade to comfort, aesthetics, safety, and overall experience for our vibrant and active senior community. Stay updated on progress by visiting rentonwa.gov/RSACimprovements.

Celebrating 40 years of our favorite tradition: Renton River Days announces 2026 festival dates

FOR 40 YEARS, Renton River Days has been more than a festival; it’s a tradition woven into the heart of the community. Families, neighbors, and visitors gather along the Cedar River to celebrate what makes Renton special: connection, culture, and shared pride. The countdown begins and the dates are set for July 23-26 for this year’s festival.

Businesses and organizations are invited to sponsor this milestone celebration. Sponsorship opportunities for Renton River Days 2026 are now available. Explore options at the official festival website: rentonwa.gov/RiverDays

Renton Farmers Market 25th Season

Opening day is June 2

Tuesdays, 3-7 p.m., June-September

South 3rd Street and Logan Ave South

rentonwa.gov/farmersmarket

2026 Summer fun downtown at Legacy Square

South Third Street & Logan Avenue South

This summer, Legacy Square will open as an arts and culture hub downtown. It is the perfect place to watch the World Cup 2026 and gather together while enjoying many other exciting activities. Look for updates at rentonwa.gov/LegacySquare.

OPENING DAY! Legacy Square, Piazza Park, and Renton Market

Saturday, June 6, 1–8pm

A full day of fun including a ribbon cutting, music, performances, food trucks, games, and more. RSVP and let us know you’re coming at rentonwa.gov/HatTrick

MATCH WATCH PARTIES

June 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 25, 27, 28 and July 10, 11, 18. Final is July 19!

SUMMER CONCERTS

Saturdays, August 1, 8, 15, 29 & Sept 5

MOVIE NIGHTS

Fridays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 & Sept 4, 11

ART & WINE BLOCK PARTY

Saturday, August 22, 12 - 8:30pm

HARVEST FESTIVAL

Saturday, September 19, 12–9p