Building the Future of Burien: Real Estate Development Opportunity & Networking Event
Burien is paving the way for a thriving, dynamic, and sustainable community. With a strong commitment to smart growth, strategic zoning updates, and developer-friendly programs, we are making Burien a prime location for real estate development. Now is the time to invest in Burien!
Join us on May 8th at the Highline Heritage Museum from 11:00am-1:00pm to learn about Burien’s new expansion of height, density, and flexibility in land use, along with how recent expansion of MFTE and utilization of Tax Increment Financing can make your project feasible. Network with property owners, developers and investors to connect on your next development project!
Event Details
Building the Future of Burien: Real Estate Development Opportunity & Networking Event
Date: Thursday May 8th
Time: 11:00am-1:00pm
Location: Highline Heritage Museum - 819 SW 152nd SW Burien, WA 98166
Background
In October 2024, the Burien City Council unanimously approved the Burien 2044 Comprehensive Plan, a roadmap for 20 years of sustainable growth. The plan focuses on attracting and diversifying Burien's growth, with a strong emphasis on developing vibrant, dense, pedestrian-oriented hubs and corridors while maintaining the city's existing charm and livability.
Highlights of the Comprehensive Plan Update Include:
Comprehensive Plan & Housing Growth Goals
- Over the next 20 years, we aim to accommodate 7,500 new households and 4,770 additional jobs.
- Growth will focus on dense, walkable, and active neighborhoods, optimizing limited land availability for vibrant urban living.
Innovative Zoning and Development Incentives
- New Multifamily & Mixed-Use Zoning: Streamlined zoning regulations allow for increased height, density, and diverse development opportunities.
- Bus Rapid Transit Alignment: High-density areas are strategically planned around public transit to enhance accessibility.
Expanded Multi-Family Tax Exemption (MFTE) Program:
- Now covers all multifamily and mixed-use districts citywide.
- Offers 8, 12, and 20-year exemptions, with extensions available for up to 24 years of tax exemption.
- Height bonuses incentivize affordable housing contributions and hotels in key zones.
- SEPA Planned Action Areas: Two newly established areas streamline environmental reviews, expediting the permitting process.
Sustainability & Livability
- Burien is integrating sustainability into its growth strategy with initiatives that address climate resilience, mitigate airport noise, and air quality.
- Programs to expand tree canopy and green infrastructure ensure long-term environmental benefits as the city grows.
Exciting Housing Code & Map Amendments (Coming June 2025)
- Expanding the number and types of housing units allowed in residential zones to encourage diverse housing options.
- Introduction of Neighborhood Commercial uses to promote walkability and mixed-use development.
- Encouraging small-scale businesses like cafés and live/work units to enhance neighborhood vibrancy.
Exploration of Tax Increment Financing
- The City is exploring the feasibility of implementing a Tax Increment Finance Area (TIF) in Burien to incentivize private investment.
- TIF is a financing tool that local governments in Washington State can use to fund public infrastructure in targeted areas to encourage private development and investment.
- The City is currently conducting feasibility in three areas in Burien for potential future use of this program.
Why Choose Burien?
Burien isn’t just ready for growth—it’s built for it. With forward-thinking policies, a prime location just 20 minutes south of Seattle, two RapidRide lines, and strong regional transit connections, we’re not only excited about the future—we’re committed to creating a vibrant, people-oriented community that thrives.
For more information, please contact economicdevelopment@burienwa.gov