King County is starting work on its next update to the Comprehensive Plan (due in 2029), and we’re inviting the public to help shape what’s included. A draft scope of work is now available for review. This document outlines the topics that could be included in the midpoint update, the plan for environmental review, and how community members can get involved throughout the process.

For this 2029 Midpoint Update, the county is proposing to focus on three major areas:

  • Climate Change & Resiliency
  • Shorelines
  • Housing

The scope of work also includes general updates that don’t fit neatly into one of these focus areas.

Public comments on the scope of work are welcome through August 2, 2026. You can send feedback to CompPlan@kingcounty.gov.

Click here to see the draft scope of work

What is the King County Comprehensive Plan, and why does it matter?

The Comprehensive Plan is one of the County’s main tools for shaping the future of unincorporated King County. It influences decisions about things that affect daily life, including:

  • Where homes, offices, or stores can be built;
  • How roads, buildings, and trees contribute to the look and feel of neighborhoods;
  • Protection of working farms and forests;
  • Access to clean water, clean air, and a healthy environment; and
  • Investments in regional services, such as transit, sewers, and parks.

The last major update was in 2024, when the entire plan was open for review and revision. The 2029 Midpoint Update is smaller in scope and focused on issues that can’t wait until the next full update in 2034.

This scope of work represents the full list of topics that county may consider in the 2029 Midpoint Update. Everything on the list will be studied, but not every topic will lead to a final policy proposal.

Reviewing the scope of work is the first step in a multi-year process that will lead to adoption of the Midpoint Update in 2029. There will be additional opportunities for people to share ideas and perspectives before adoption in 2029.

Schedule

  • Public comment on scope of work draft: Now through August 2, 2026
  • King County Council review of the scope of work: mid-November through February 2027
  • Public review of the King County Executive’s recommended Midpoint Update: January – February 2028
  • King County Executive transmits recommended Midpoint Update to King County Council: June 30, 2028
  • King County Council adopts of the 2029 Midpoint update: by June 30, 2029