Exciting developments are underway in Burien as the City charts its economic future with the creation of an Economic Development Action Plan. This plan provides a roadmap for the City’s economic development efforts by identifying key actions to enhance economic vitality over the next five to ten years.
Crafted with input from various community and business stakeholders and guided by the expertise of project consultant EcoNorthwest, the action plan incorporates feedback and data from past and ongoing City planning initiatives. Through focused engagement including stakeholder interviews, roundtable discussions, community open houses, online surveys, and outreach to local business owners, the plan reflects the diverse perspectives and needs of Burien’s community.
Key highlights of the action plan include:
- Clear Goals and Strategies: The plan outlines specific economic development goals and strategies tailored to uplift Burien’s residents and businesses. These strategies will guide the City in seeking intentional economic growth, fostering a thriving local economy.
- Community Engagement: The City actively sought input from residents and stakeholders through various channels, including the Shape Your City multi-plan community engagement effort. This inclusive approach ensured that the action plan reflects the aspirations and priorities of Burien’s diverse population.
- Actionable Steps: With 16 actionable items grouped under four overarching goals, the action plan provides a comprehensive framework for advancing economic development in Burien. These initiatives encompass a range of activities aimed at fostering innovation, supporting local businesses, and enhancing economic opportunities for all Burien residents including youth and families.
While the City needs to prioritize actions based on existing available resources and staffing capacity, the approved action plan represents a shared vision for realizing Burien’s economic potential. By aligning short-term efforts with long-term outcomes, the City aims to maximize the plan’s impact and ensure sustained economic growth for years to come.
As Burien continues to evolve and thrive, this plan also represents a shared commitment to building a vibrant and prosperous community for all. Programs and initiatives to address several of the action plan goals are already underway. Further updates will be shared as the City works towards realizing its economic development goals for the Burien community.
Read the full plan and learn more at burienwa.gov/edap.
Summary of Plan Actions
| Solidify Burien’s position as an arts and tourism destination | Attract a Hotel to Burien* |
| Invest in Burien’s Marketing, Branding, Multicultural Character, and Restaurant Scene* | |
| Explore the Feasibility of a Performing Arts or Events Center in Burien* | |
| Increase Transportation to and from the Airport | |
| Support corridor vitality and redevelopment | Work with the Business and Economic Development Partnership to Explore Potential Suitable Locations for Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts* |
| Provide Targeted Support for Corridor Retail and Incentivize Commercial Development | |
| Expand Family-Friendly Amenities Across Burien’s Commercial Corridors | |
| Pursue Beautification Efforts in the Public Realm to Enhance Curb Appeal* | |
| Enforce Private Property Upkeep Standards to Enhance Public Perceptions | |
| Build upon small business assistance to support Burien’s diverse business base | Support Culturally Specific Training and Mentorship Programs |
| Explore Options to Create an Anti-Displacement Strategy for Local Businesses | |
| Create Opportunities for Low-Cost Retail Space | |
| Support the community’s workforce by acting as a convener | Convene and Amplify Local and Regional Workforce Programs |
| Advocate for Affordable and Available Childcare Businesses in Burien* | |
| Attract New Employers Offering Living-Wage Jobs by Facilitating Development Opportunities | |
| Work with the State and Other Partners to Create Generational Wealth–building Opportunities |
