The first draft of the planning document that will help guide the future of the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River area for the next 20 years is available for public review.

The Department of Local Services published the Preliminary Draft Subarea Plan for this area today,  and it’s inviting the public to learn more and share feedback on the plan during a virtual public meeting next Thursday, April 23.

The Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River subarea is in southeast King County. It includes unincorporated communities (areas that are outside city boundaries) such as Hobart, Ravensdale, and nearby rural neighborhoods. Known for its forests, rivers, and strong rural character, the area is home to a mix of residential communities, farms, and small businesses.

The final subarea plan will provide a long-term vision and policy framework to inform future King County decisions while preserving the area’s natural environment and community character. It addresses key topics such as land use, housing, transportation, economic development, and environmental protection.

Community members are encouraged to review the draft plan and provide input during the public comment period, which will run from April 15 through May 18. Feedback will help shape the second draft of the plan, available for public review later in 2026. The King County Executive and Council will review a final plan in 2027.

The Subeara Plan preliminary draft release is the latest milestone in a multi-year planning process in which King County has engaged the community. Since 2024, the Department of Local Services has held numerous in-person events, including an initial open house, five “Community Conversations” communitywide meetings, and numerous meetings with individuals and groups, to gather community feedback.

Community members will have several opportunities to learn more about the Subarea Plan and give feedback before the public comment period closes May 18:

Public information meeting (virtual) on Thursday, April 23

King County planners will present the plan and answer questions.

  • Date: Thursday, April 23
  • Time: 6 p.m.
  • Location: Online (Zoom meeting information is available on the project website)

Office hours

Members of the public can talk with a county planner during the following drop-in “office hours:”

  • In-person: April 30, 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m., Maple Valley Library, 21844 SE 248th Street
  • Online: May 5, 4:30 p.m. to  6:30 p.m. (Zoom meeting information is available on the project website)

Learn more, review the plan, and register for the meeting on the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Subarea Plan website.