Comprehensive Plan

2024 Periodic Review of the Buckley Comprehensive Plan

What is the 2024 Periodic Review?

The City of Buckley is updating its Comprehensive Plan to align with state requirements and address community needs. This plan sets the vision for Buckley’s growth over the next 20 years, ensuring policies and zoning support the city’s evolving priorities. Through this update, the City aims to balance development with maintaining Buckley’s small-town charm, supporting local businesses, and preserving natural spaces.

Growth Targets (2024-2044) The Growth Management Act (GMA), Washington State Department of Commerce, and Pierce County assign growth targets for cities like Buckley. These targets define the number of new residents, housing units, and jobs Buckley must accommodate over 20 years. Buckley is required to plan to meet these targets to remain eligible for state funding and grants that support infrastructure and community projects.

Revised Growth Targets:

Population Growth: Increase by 3,121, reaching a total of 8,235.
Housing Growth: Add 1,260 housing units, bringing the total to 3,217 units.
Job Growth: Create 1,080 new jobs, aiming for a total of 3,321 jobs.

Future Land Use Map (FLUM) Changes

The 2024 update introduces changes to the FLUM to better reflect community needs and planning goals.

Existing FLUM Designations (2015):

Commercial Mixed Use: Areas supporting a blend of retail, office, and residential uses.
Industrial/General Commercial: Zones for industrial activities and larger-scale commercial uses.
Urban High Density: Designated for multi-family residences such as apartments.
Urban Low Density: Focused on single-family homes and small-scale residential uses.
Right of Way (ROW): Areas designated for roads, infrastructure, and utilities.

Revised FLUM Designations (2024):

Neighborhood Residential: Emphasizes single-family homes and middle housing like duplexes.
Urban High Density: Supports higher-density residential buildings with up to approximately 35 dwelling units per acre.
Corridor Mixed Use: Replaces industrial zones along SR 410 and SR 165, encouraging development that integrates housing with commercial and light industrial uses
Historic Commercial: Preserves the character of Buckley’s downtown while allowing mixed-use development.
Public Parks and Open Spaces: Areas for new and/or existing parks, natural preservation, and open spaces, reflecting the community’s desire for accessible green areas.
Natural: Protects ecologically sensitive areas near the White River, ensuring long-term conservation.