King County advances drainage and stormwater improvements in White Center ponds project

King County announced this week that it is moving forward with a major drainage and stormwater improvement project in White Center aimed at improving water quality, safety and public access in the area.

The project focuses on redesigning the White Center Ponds, located between SW Roxbury Street and SW 100th Street, just east of downtown White Center and west of the Greenbridge neighborhood.

County officials say the ponds function as a stormwater facility that collects and filters runoff from roads and paved surfaces, allowing pollutants to settle or be absorbed by plants before the water continues downstream.

The redesign includes excavating the ponds so they remain wet year round, removing invasive vegetation and replanting native species, and creating a new multi use loop trail with lighting on the east side of the site.

King County said the project is currently about 90 percent through the design phase and is expected to reach full design completion by summer 2026.

The improvements are based in part on community feedback gathered in 2022. According to the county, nearly half of respondents who do not visit the ponds said they avoid the area because they do not feel safe, while majorities expressed interest in better lighting, improved sightlines and expanded walking and biking access. 

The project aims to address those concerns by increasing visibility, enhancing lighting and creating more accessible pathways to encourage use of the space.

County officials said they will continue community outreach as the project moves toward final design, with additional public engagement planned in 2026.

The drainage improvements are part of a broader effort by King County to manage stormwater, reduce pollution and protect public health and the environment in urban areas like White Center.