Auburn Environmental Park

In 2004, the Auburn City Council established the Auburn Environmental Park (AEP). This 120-acre wetland complex provides a unique urban open space in the middle of our City and is largely surrounded by 270 acres of industrial manufacturing and warehouse properties. Intended to provide multiple opportunities for public benefits, portions of the AEP offer the potential to serve as "living laboratories" as part of efforts to develop environmentally sustainable technologies within the City.

The AEP is located within walking distance of Auburn Station, a rail and transit hub that provides access to the Sounder Rail service and the extensive multi-carrier transit network serving the Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area. The AEP’s proximity to Auburn’s downtown restaurants, shops, and services, and nearby access to the regional transportation network, ensures that the AEP not only provides excellent passive recreation opportunities for local business and community residents, but also serves as a destination attraction for visitors from throughout the region.

In 2009 a two-story birding tower was constructed to provide viewing of the diverse resident and migratory bird population that frequents the park.  A 'low-impact' 1,200 foot elevated boardwalk complete with interpretive signage, observation platforms, and visitor rest areas is scheduled to open in early 2012.  The Park also abuts the regional Interurban Trail, a 14-mile long paved bike/walk trail connecting five cities. Future improvements in the AEP include expansion of the trail network, and additional stream and wetland restoration projects to improve habitat for birds and other wildlife.

The AEP is located within the Environmental Park District (seen below outlined in gold). The District, which is bounded by 15th Street NW to the north, the Interurban Trail and Union Pacific Railroad to the east, Highway 18 to the south and State Route 167 to the west in Auburn, is zoned for manufacturing. In addition, the AEP offers opportunities to support research, development, and environmentally "green" business activities and technologies. Cross-hatching identifies potential redevelopment areas.