City of Kent seeks feedback on draft ReDiscover Downtown plan

The City of Kent is seeking public comment on a draft plan that would update the city’s 2013 Downtown Subarea Action Plan and guide growth in the downtown area over the next 20 years.

The draft ReDiscover Downtown Kent Plan reflects vision and goals identified by the community for downtown Kent’s future, according to the city. It is designed to respond to changing economic conditions, workplace trends and regional growth expectations while reinforcing downtown’s role as the heart of the city.

The plan lays out targeted investments, land use strategies, infrastructure improvements and partnerships intended to create a more vibrant, inclusive and economically resilient downtown. It also aims to support infill and redevelopment that fit the community’s economic, environmental and transit goals.

How to Provide Comments

Residents can review the draft plan online here and submit comments directly in the document. The city says any comments submitted through the online review will be publicly visible.

Other comment options include email to FutureKent@KentWA.gov or mail to:

City of Kent Long Range Planning
Economic & Community Department
220 4th Avenue S.
Kent, WA 98032

Written or verbal comments also may be offered at a public hearing before the Land Use and Planning Board on July 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 220 4th Ave South. Comments sent by email or mail must be received by 4 p.m. July 27 to be part of the official record.

The city says downtown Kent is one of the Puget Sound Regional Council’s designated Regional Growth Centers, meaning it is expected to include a dense mix of businesses, government and cultural facilities, transportation connections and housing. The draft study area includes the designated growth center boundary and surrounding blocks extending from Kennebeck Ave. S to 64 Ave. S, crossing over SR 167.

Kent officials say the downtown area already includes historic restaurants and cultural businesses, Kent Station, housing growth along Meeker Street, regional events at ShoWare Center and community gathering places including the library, Kent Commons and Kherson Park.