The transformation of the Wilburton commercial area, from old auto row to thriving urban neighborhood, presents one of the most significant opportunities in Bellevue’s history for creating more sustainable forms of urban development. Building on the community’s vision for a livable, walkable, and transit-oriented urban neighborhood, Wilburton can leverage the major infrastructure investments in light rail and Eastrail—as well as major projects such as the Grand Connection and development of the city-owned Lincoln Center site—to create a truly unique urban experience in Bellevue.
In late 2023, the city undertook a study to assess the opportunity to take sustainability a step farther in Wilburton by creating a designated ‘sustainable district,’ also called an eco-district. This study, the Wilburton Sustainable District Opportunity Assessment, is part of the ongoing Wilburton Vision Implementation work and was an implementation action called for in the 2021-2025 Sustainable Bellevue Plan. The Sustainable District Opportunity Assessment resulted in a report that describes the viability of creating such a district in Wilburton, precedents for doing so, and what strategies the city can promote to make such a district a reality.
Project Development
A sustainable district can take many forms. As an arts district embeds art into every aspect of a place, a sustainable district is a geographic area where sustainable practices are integrated throughout – in buildings, open spaces, and in the public’s interactions with the space. Opportunities identified in Wilburton as part of a sustainable district include an energy production system that would provide renewable, zero-carbon energy to surrounding buildings, green stormwater infrastructure (trees, plants and natural surfaces that slow stormwater runoff to ease pressure on the storm sewer system), expansion of urban wildlife habitat and green space, and advanced green building practices.
To develop the sustainable district assessment, the city convened workshops with community members, property and business owners and subject matter experts to inform district goals and priorities. Stakeholders also identified opportunities for transformative early-phase projects, including renewable district energy and prioritizing sustainable practices in the development of city-owned properties.
Now that the Wilburton sustainable district assessment is complete, the city will continue to collaborate with stakeholders to advance and support implementation of the opportunities described in the report.
Read the Report
