Miller Creek Restoration Burien, Washington

By daylighting a stream that previously flowed almost entirely through a failing pipe network, endangering private property and downstream wetlands, the restoration of Miller Creek created a stable natural feature while supporting an adjacent trail along its embankments. This work followed an extensive planning effort in the area for redevelopment. Otak provided preliminary concepts, surveying, and permitting documentation, while also coordinating between multiple agencies and municipalities to see the project through construction.

Daylighting a Stream for Improved Stormwater and Habitat in a Redeveloped Subarea

With a focus on stormwater and habitat, the Miller Creek restoration utilizes a 162-acre subarea adjacent to the SeaTac Airport. The area’s proximity to Port of Seattle, as well as the Cities of Seatac and Burien, required each municipality’s involvement, and their collaboration made this work possible. In addition to relocating 900 linear feet of stream to ground level, the design also added another 300 linear feet as part of its newly formed floodplain. Two fish passable culverts under Des Moines Memorial Drive and Miller Creek Trail further enhance the natural habitat for wildlife like salmon that spawn in the creek and contribute towards the broader goals of restoring the Puget Sound Watershed. Along with native vegetation along the streambank, the project also connects with multiple green stormwater facilities to treat stormwater runoff from approximately 50 acres of impervious surfaces, complementing continued redevelopment in the area.