The Current - Summer 2026

Letter from the Mayor

It is my honor and privilege to welcome you to the first edition of our new quarterly City magazine, The Current! This publication is another way for us to stay connected-highlighting city projects, community events, local partnerships, and incredible people helping shape Renton's future.

Our work is guided by a clear vision: to be the center of opportunity in the Puget Sound Region where communities and businesses thrive. To achieve this, we are dedicated to a mission built on partnership and communication with our residents, businesses, schools, and community partners.

Right now, momentum is building across Renton, and our City departments are focused on meeting community demands with high-quality results to support our residents. In this issue, you will see our mission in action through our latest public safety initiatives, major economic developments, and powerful community milestones.

We are also thrilled to welcome the world to our region this summer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC calling Renton's Longacres campus home, the world's eyes are on our region as our city plays an important role in this global celebration. I look forward to seeing you at Legacy Square this summer for our community watch parties to cheer on the action together.

To stay connected between issues, I encourage you to sign up for our monthly digital newsletter, "This Month in Renton," tune into City Council meetings, and join me this summer for our "Talks on the Block" series, where I'll come out to your neighborhood and answer any questions you and your neighbors have.

This summer, I want to wish each of you and your families a safe, healthy, and exciting season ahead!

Armondo Pavone
City of Renton Mayor

Building Regional Partnerships

Zahilay praised Renton's partnership with King County, highlighting collaborative efforts in transit, affordable housing, emergency management, and behavioral health services. He pointed to projects like the RapidRide I-Line and the future Renton Transit Center as examples of investments that will better connect South King County communities.

A Vision for the Future

The mayor also highlighted several projects shaping Renton's future, including the new Renton Transit Center, downtown revitalization efforts like Legacy Square and the Renton Market, expanded park space along the Cedar River, and continued economic investment from companies such as Boeing and Wizards of the Coast.

Investing in Renton's Future

Mayor Pavone focused much of his address on Renton's financial stability and continued growth. He highlighted the city's AAA bond rating, stable tax structure, and nearly $27 million in grant funding secured in 2025 for infrastructure, parks, transportation, and housing projects. He also emphasized Renton's ability to continue investing in services and staffing while many municipalities across the region face budget challenges.

"Renton is not just growing - it's leading."
— Mayor Armondo Pavone

Public Safety and Community Support

Public safety, housing affordability, and homelessness remained key themes throughout the evening. Pavone discussed efforts to expand police staffing, invest in new technology like the city's drone response program, and create a centralized resource center offering shelter, behavioral health support, and wraparound services for people experiencing homelessness.

Preparations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and Renton's growing role as a regional destination also played a central role in the city's vision for the years ahead. Throughout the evening, both leaders emphasized the importance of partnership, adaptability, and community involvement as Renton continues to grow and evolve.

Special thanks to King County Executive Girmay Zahilay; Steve Aliment and Annie O'Neill; Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle's Southport; Cugini Florists and Fine Gifts for the floral arrangements; Renton city staff; and the residents, partners, business owners, and community leaders who joined the event.

Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/SOTC to watch the State of the City address.

The world's biggest sporting event is coming to the Pacific Northwest, and Renton is joining the celebration! The 2026 FIFA World Cup - the world's most watched international soccer tournament will feature 48 national teams competing across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 through July 19, 2026. Seattle will host six matches, bringing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region.

With the Seattle Sounders FC's home base in Renton, they will serve as Belgium's home base throughout the tournament this summer. Learn how the city has been preparing to make sure we all have a safe and fun summer during this major event: RentonWA.gov/SummerSafety.

Ready to Play!

Over the past several months, we have been working with local businesses and community partners through the "Renton, Ready to Play!" campaign to help create a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. Plans include free community watch parties at the new Legacy Square in downtown Renton, giving fans a place to gather and experience the excitement together.

As anticipation builds across the region, Renton is preparing to welcome the world. Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/Soccer2026BizHub to learn more about ways to get your business involved this summer.

New Mural in Renton Celebrates the World's Game

Renton recently unveiled a new mural celebrating the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The artwork was created by Seattle-based artist and graphic designer Shogo Ota, who also designed Seattle's official World Cup poster, helping connect Renton to the region's global soccer celebration.

Known for his large-scale murals and public art installations, Ota blends his Japanese design roots with Pacific Northwest influences to create bold, engaging artwork.

The mural not only adds to Renton's growing public art collection, but also reflects the city's role in welcoming visitors from around the world during the summer tournament.

1. Legacy Square

Designed as a high-energy arts and culture hub, Legacy Square features a children's play structure and a futsal court created in partnership with the RAVE Foundation.

At the heart of the plaza is a mass-timber performance stage designed with natural acoustic projection, accompanied by a 30-foot digital screen for community events, performances, and public viewing experiences. The space is set to serve as the City's official "Watch Party" headquarters during the 2026 World Cup, drawing thousands of residents and visitors downtown throughout the summer.

From live entertainment, movies, festivals, and community celebrations, Legacy Square is designed to become the centerpiece of downtown gathering.

Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/LegacySquareEvents to learn more about Legacy Square.

2. Piazza Park

A $2.8 million overhaul has transformed Piazza Park into a more welcoming and accessible community space designed for everyday use and large-scale events.

Utilizing Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, the updated park integrates new seating, shaded areas, and paved paths to maximize safety and comfort. A new south-facing canopy adjacent to the Renton Market connects directly into the Piazza, creating a seamless pedestrian flow and a unified footprint perfect for seasonal festivals, Renton Farmers Market, community events, and everyday casual use. The redesigned park creates an inviting "outdoor living room" in the heart of downtown Renton.

3. The Renton Market

The transformation of the former Pavilion Event Center into the new Renton Market marks a major investment in local entrepreneurship and small business growth. The year-round indoor market will feature restaurants alongside 12 kiosk stalls designed to support emerging business and startup vendors. Complete with a classroom kitchen for public culinary workshops, demonstrations, and community programming, the market will help transform the area into a bustling, seven-day operation to bring new vibrancy and economic activity to the downtown core.

We will be handing over the keys to our tenant having completed our building improvements in June, allowing for the next phase to begin. The tenants planned improvements over the coming months will ready the space for future vendors and activities.

The New Renton Transit Center is Officially Underway!

Renton transit is getting a major upgrade. On February 4, the City of Renton, Sound Transit, and partners broke ground on the new Renton Transit Center at South Grady Way and Rainier Avenue South.

Designed to supercharge regional connectivity and rider experience, the relocated hub will support existing King County Metro and Rapid Ride F lines, while paving the way for the future Stride S1 (Bellevue-to-Burien) and RapidRide I lines.

Key features include:

• Upgraded Hub: Eight bus bays and covered rider waiting areas.
• Improved Traffic Flow: A new four-way signalized intersection to improve bus movement and safety.
• Faster Commutes: A dedicated, bus-only lane on the northbound shoulder of SR 167 to ensure more consistent travel times.

Renton is on the move! Stay tuned for more updates as this critical project progresses.

New 12.5-Acre Waterfront Park Coming to Renton!

The City of Renton has officially acquired 12.5 acres of land along the scenic Cedar River, securing 1,500 feet of prime riverfront that will transform into a new public park.

By expanding the existing Cedar River Park footprint, the city is taking a major step forward in boosting local recreation, preserving vital natural spaces, and enhancing overall quality of life for residents. Stay tuned as the city begins turning this stretch of riverfront into Renton's newest natural getaway!

Coming Soon: Towns on 12th

Construction is officially underway at Towns on 12th, a new 90-unit townhome community. These contemporary homes feature flexible two, three, and four-bedroom floor plans designed to accommodate a variety of lifestyles.

Now Open: Astra & Solera Apartments

The Renton Highlands recently welcomed a major housing addition with the opening of the Astra and Solera apartments. This dual-complex project introduces 590 new homes to the area-blending 275 affordable units with 315 market-rate apartments to support our growing community.

Renton's Newest Developments

Renton's residential landscape is rapidly expanding, with several exciting new developments bringing fresh housing options to the community. From affordable apartment living to contemporary townhomes, these projects are helping meet the needs of Renton's growing population while creating more opportunities to call the city home.

Modern Policing & Advanced Enforcement

The Renton Police Department continues to evolve to meet the needs of our growing community through expanded staffing, specialized enforcement units to target high-priority crime, and investments in emerging public safety technology. One of the newest innovations is the City's Drones-as-First-Responder (DFR) program, a technology that helps reduce response times by providing officers with real-time aerial data and vital situational awareness before they even arrive on the scene.

Crisis Prevention & Mental Health Support

Renton recognizes that long-term public safety is closely tied to behavioral health, housing stability, and intervention services.

In response, programming is officially underway at the newly acquired former Compton Lumber property, the site of Renton's future comprehensive stabilization center. Once complete, the Center will offer direct housing assistance alongside mental and behavioral health services designed to support individuals and families before they reach crisis situations. The City has also supported the Student Health Hub, a partnership with the Renton School District and Health Commons, focused on identifying at-risk students and families early and connecting them with immediate support services.

Smart Streets & Traffic Calming

Currently underway, the data-driven Renton Safety Action Plan aims to reduce and ultimately eliminate serious traffic crashes through proven street-design strategies. Residents are encouraged to help shape these efforts by taking the safety survey at RentonWA.gov/SafetyActionPlanSurvey.

As part of the city's continued efforts to keep our residents safe, our Traffic Calming Programactively reduces vehicle speeds and volumes on local streets. Two key speed cushion installations are currently in the design phase, with construction anticipated for Summer/Fall 2026:

• NE 12th St (between Olympia Ave NE and Union Ave NE)
• SW Langston Rd (between SW Sunset Blvd and S 132nd St)

Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/TrafficCalming to learn more.

South 7th Street Improvements Project

The City completed the South 7th Street Corridor Improvements Project at the end of 2025. The project's objective was to enhance the corridor and improve safety along this key east-west route into downtown. The project added a new multi-use path, made intersection improvements, and upgraded crosswalks to improve mobility for drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians, and transit users alike.

Rainier Avenue South Project

Rainier Avenue South is one of Renton's most important regional transit corridors, supporting heavy daily traffic from drivers, transit riders, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Phase 4 of the project has reached substantial completion. Phase 4 focused on improved safety, mobility, and access while maintaining traffic flow throughout the corridor and during construction.

Supported through grant funding, Phase 4 included wider sidewalks, new bike lanes, upgraded traffic signals, pedestrian-scale lighting, landscaped medians, and an extension of the Lake Washington Loop Trail. Additional improvements include pedestrian-activated crossings and expanded transit features, including a Business Access and Transit (BAT) lane, helping residents, businesses, and commuters move safely and efficiently through the area.

Kennydale Lakeline Sewer System Improvement Project

The Kennydale Lakeline Sewer System Improvement Project is part of the City's ongoing effort to improve sewer service in the Kennydale Beach Park area while helping protect the health of Lake Washington. Currently in the final design phase, construction is expected to begin this year.

The project will replace the existing sewer system, originally built in 1972, with a modern system designed to redirect wastewater away from the lake. The upgraded approach will use small grinder pump stations at each property, improving reliability and supporting long-term environmental protection for the community and Lake Washington.

Renton Municipal Airport Launches Major Upgrades

City staff, leadership, and members of the airport community celebrated the completion of the Renton Municipal Airport's new administrative offices and facility upgrades, while recognizing the airport's 100th anniversary.

The new administrative space relocates operations from the Airport Control Tower into a more modern and welcoming environment for employees and visitors. Known as Clayton Scott Field, the airport has supported nearly 140,000 operations annually and stands as one of only three airports in the nation to accommodate both land and sea aircraft operations.

Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/AirportUpgrades to learn more about the upgrades.

Recology Selected as Renton's New Waste Provider

On March 2, the Renton City Council approved Recology as the city's new solid waste provider beginning in April 2027 following a competitive review process and community feedback, with customer service and accessibility serving as key factors in the decision.

Recology was selected for its Seattle-based customer service center, seven-day-a-week support, and ability to help Renton meet new state requirements for food and yard waste separation. The transition will also simplify billing by allowing residents and businesses to manage utility and waste payments directly through the city.

Leading up to the launch, Solid Waste Coordinator Meara Heubach will lead public outreach efforts, including community education and distribution of new waste containers to help residents prepare for the transition. Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/Recology to learn more.

Renton Promise Program

A brighter future for local students is within reach thanks to Renton Promise. This program offers graduating high school seniors in Renton the opportunity to earn a two-year associate degree at Renton Technical College (RTC) with up to full tuition coverage - regardless of GPA, income level, or country of birth.

The City of Renton proudly helped kickstart this multi-agency resource. Originally launched through a $200,000 state provision spearheaded by Representative Steve Bergquist, the City matched the funding with its own $200,000 commitment alongside the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship. Recently, The Boeing Company donated a $250,000 grant to expand the program further. By removing financial barriers, Renton Promise is opening doors of opportunity and building a stronger local workforce.

Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/RentonPromise to learn more about the program.

The Commercial Surge

Renton's commercial landscape continues to expand, bringing world-class brands, corporate headquarters, and major economic energy to the City.

A prime example of this evolution is the iconic Longacres campus, which has been transformed into a world-class sports destination. The campus now serves as the unified headquarters for both the Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC, and is expected to serve a key role in this summer's 2026 FIFA World Cup activities.

Longacres has also welcomed the new Alaska Airlines global training facility, drawing thousands of employees to the city annually for career-launching instruction.

Across town, major revitalization projects are also underway. WinCo Foods is bringing new life to the former Fry's Electronics site, while Boeing has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Renton with years of aerospace production ahead - with deep investments in our community through the Renton Promise Program and Renton Schools Foundation.

Momentum continues as Wizards of the Coast expands its presence as Hasbro's global gaming headquarters, new hotel brands like LiveAway Suites open doors, and Seattle Children's Hospital prepares to build a future campus. This surge of daily commercial activity is creating a lasting, positive impact for local businesses, driving Renton toward a prosperous future.

Finance Department Earns Stewardship Award

The Washington State Auditor's Office awarded the State Auditor's Stewardship Award to Renton's Finance Department. The department was honored for its exceptional dedication to fiscal transparency and superior oversight of public funds, including extensive financial research, complex projections, and mastery of new accounting standards implemented during preparation of the City's 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.

Public Works Department Recognized for Two Awards

Completed in January 2025, the Monroe Avenue Stormwater Facility earned multiple regional honors for innovation and sustainability. The American Public Works Association recognized the project as Project of the Year in both the Environment ($5M-$25M) and Sustainability categories. As Western Washington's largest stormwater treatment facility, the project utilizes a multi-stage treatment process to improve water quality and treat runoff across 260 acres. The City and its contractor, Otak Inc., also won the prestigious Gold Award for Engineering Excellence from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Washington for the project's unique technical innovation and design.

Award-Winning Transit Solutions

Renton proudly accepted a VISION 2050 Award from the Puget Sound Regional Council for its Rainier/Grady Junction Transit-Oriented Development planning efforts. The City's proactive Environmental Impact Statement and Planned Action Ordinance lay a strategic blueprint for dense housing, employment opportunities, retail spaces, and recreational amenities surrounding the future transit center.

Renton City Clerk Awarded Inspiration Award

Individual staff brilliance shines as the Washington Municipal Clerks Association named Renton Deputy City Clerk Melissa McCain a co-recipient of the 2026 WMCA Inspiration Award. The honor recognizes municipal professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication to supporting fellow clerks and public servants across Washington state.

McCain was recognized for her professionalism, leadership, and positive impact within the municipal clerk community over the past year.

Renton River Days: Through the Decades 1986-2026 (40th Anniversary)

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, JULY 24-26, 2026
rentonwa.gov/riverdays

2026 Saturday Concert Series at Renton's Legacy Square

5:30-9pm, Concert at 7pm - 510 S. Third Street
rentonwa.gov/LegacySquareEvents

• Aug 1: BEATLE CONCERT
• Aug 8: CLINTON FEARON
• Aug 15: SOUL SACRIFICE
• Aug 29: THE UNDERHILLS
• Sep 5: GOLDEN K-POP DJ

2026 Friday Movie Series at Renton's Legacy Square

6-9pm, Movie at 7pm - 510 S. Third Street
Dates: Aug 7, Aug 14, Aug 21, Aug 28, Sep 4, Sep 11
rentonwa.gov/LegacySquareEvents

Renton Farmers Market (25th Season)

CELEBRATING 2002-2026
Local Farmers, Fresh Food, Friendly People
JUNE-SEPTEMBER, Tuesdays, 3-7pm
SOUTH 3RD STREET & LOGAN AVE SOUTH
RENTONWA.GOV/FARMERSMARKET

Summer Concerts 2026 at Coulon Park

SPONSORED BY CITY OF RENTON RECREATION
THURSDAYS in AUGUST, 6:30-8:00PM
Coulon Park, Kidd Valley Stage (1201 Lake Washington Blvd N)

• AUG 6: DANNY GODINEZ
• AUG 13: BETWEEN 2 GREGS
• AUG 20: THE CORY WILDS BAND
• AUG 27: CHROME MOLLY

Wine & Art Block Party

FASHION SHOW! ART MARKET | CLASSES | FOOD TRUCKS
Saturday, August 22, 12-8 p.m.
Legacy Square, South Third Street
rentonwa.gov/LegacySquareEvents

Harvest Festival Extravaganza!

Saturday, Sept 19, 12-9pm
LEGACY SQUARE, DOWNTOWN RENTON (S THIRD ST & LOGAN AVE)
Harvest Market | Microbrew/Cider Booths | Food Trucks | Crowdsource Choir | Presentations | Performances | Bollywood Dance Party
rentonwa.gov/LegacySquareEvents

Maplewood Park Welcomes Upgraded Playground

On February 7, city leaders and families celebrated the ribbon-cutting of the newly renovated Maplewood Park playground. Replacing 20-year-old equipment, the upgraded space features enhanced safety surfacing, an expanded playbox, and brand-new features to maximize fun and encourage play. The project marks Renton's sixth completed playground replacement since 2018.

Plan Your Summer with the New "Let's Go Renton!" Guide

The May-August edition of the "Let's Go Renton!" Recreation guide is officially available, packed with summer activities, camps, classes and community events for all ages. Grab a printed copy at the Renton Community Center or Renton City Hall, or browse online to start planning your season!

To learn more, scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/LetsGo.

2026 Parks, Recreation, and Open Spaces (PROS) Plan Adopted

The Renton City Council adopted the 2026 PROS Plan, a community-informed roadmap establishing a 20-year vision for local parks, trails, and natural areas. Thank you to the 5,000+ residents who helped shape it during the planning process! The plan ensures equitable park access and secures Renton's eligibility for future state and federal grant opportunities supporting park and recreation improvements.

OUR PILLARS:

• Equity
• Environmental Resilience
• Health & Well-being

Learn more at RentonWA.gov/Pros.

Exciting Upgrades Coming to the Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center

The Don Persson Renton Senior Activity Center is temporarily closed now through 2026 while major building and safety upgrades are completed. Planned improvements include a new climate control system, updated windows and siding, and fresh painting. Many regular programs and events have been temporarily relocated and will continue during this period.

Visit RentonWA.gov/RSACImprovements for the full activity schedule.

Preparedness Starts at Home

While the city refines its disaster plans year-round, true resilience takes the entire community coming together, following instructions, and moving quickly. You can protect your household and stay prepared by taking three critical steps:

• Sign Up for ALERT Renton: Register for the city's voluntary emergency notification system to receive immediate, critical safety updates via phone, text, TDD, or email. To register, visit RentonWA.gov/Alert or scan the QR code.
• Know Your Flood Risk: Check the King County Flood Control District map to determine if your home, business, or school sits in a designated flood zone. View the floodplain map: KingCountyFloodControl.org/Flood-Resources/FloodPlain-Map.
• Build a Two-Week Go-Kit: Assemble a portable emergency supplies kit for your home, work, or car. Ensure it contains enough food, water, medical supplies, and basic necessities to sustain your entire household for two weeks.

Learn more about emergency preparedness resources, maps, and alerts at RentonWA.gov/EmergencyInfo.

Renton Student Health Hub Celebrates Milestone

The City of Renton, Renton School District, HCP OneHealthPort, and healthcare and nonprofit partners recently celebrated the continued success of the Renton Student Health Hub, which improves student access to behavioral health and housing services. The Hub now serves all 26 schools in the Renton School District and has connected more than 100 students to direct care. Learn more at RentonWA.gov/StudentHealthHub.

Rekindling friendship and forging new paths in Nishiwaki, Japan

In October 2025, Mayor Armondo Pavone and Renton Technical College President Dr. Yoshiko Harden led a delegation to Renton's Sister City of Nishiwaki, Japan. The visit renewed the long-standing relationship between the two cities and explored future opportunities for collaboration, including a culinary exchange initiative. Learn more at RentonWA.gov/Government/Newsroom/City-news/Mayor-Blog-Nishiwaki.

Civic Academy

The Renton Civic Academy returned for its second cohort in 2026. The eight-week program gives residents and business owners an inside look at how city government operates. This year's cohort included 32 residents who participated in workshops, activities, and discussions with city staff and leadership across multiple city facilities. Learn more at RentonWA.gov/CivicAcademy.

Talks on the Block

Mayor Armondo Pavone is launching Talks on the Block, a neighborhood conversation series where residents can host discussions with the Mayor and City Leadership about Renton's future. Sessions will be held Tuesday through Thursday evenings from June 2 through September 24, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Learn more or apply to host at RentonWA.gov/TalksOnTheBlock.

Paint with Purpose

The City of Renton's Paint with Purpose initiative is a community-driven program designed to reduce graffiti and enhance public spaces by transforming them into vibrant works of art. By engaging property owners, businesses, and local artists, this initiative fosters community collaboration while beautifying the city. This program is supported in part by funding from 4Culture, helping expand access to public art and strengthen Renton's creative community.

Scan the QR code or visit RentonWA.gov/PaintWithPurpose to learn more on ways to get involved.

Graffiti Removal in Action

Renton's graffiti abatement program works year-round to quickly remove vandalism from public and private property throughout the city. In partnership with the Renton Police Department and City code compliance staff, response crews work rapidly to address reported graffiti to help keep neighborhoods clean, welcoming, and safe.

Residents can report graffiti online through the Renton Responds portal at RentonWA.gov/Responds.

Mayor in a Minute

"Mayor in a Minute," is a monthly video series hosted by Mayor Armondo Pavone recapping City updates, upcoming projects, and community initiatives. The series offers residents a quick and accessible way to stay connected with what's happening throughout the city. Watch the full series on the City's YouTube channel. Learn more at RentonWA.gov/MIAM.

In Case You Missed It: Council Meeting Recap

Looking for a quick, easy summary of City Council discussions? The City's meeting recap provides highlights from Committee of the Whole (COW) and City Council meetings, helping residents stay informed on important community topics and decisions. Learn more at RentonWA.gov/ICYMI.

Learn About Renton's Boards, Committees, and Commissions

Ever wonder how local policies are shaped? Renton's advisory boards, committees, and commissions are resident-led groups that provide vital recommendations to the Mayor and City Council on key issues like urban planning, the arts, equity, and human services.

Public meetings are held regularly and provide residents with opportunities to stay informed and participate in community conversations. Explore upcoming meetings and learn more at RentonWA.gov/BCC.