Independent Analysis of Brightwater Geotechnical Report Confirms Lack of Seismic Faults

An analysis of the geotechnical report recently released by King County confirms the conclusion that
no active earthquake faults exist on a portion of the Brightwater wastewater treatment plant site
where two chemical storage facilities will be built.  This finding clears the way for construction of the plant.
 
Snohomish County’s geotechnical consultants, Milbor-Pita and Associates, reviewed King County’s
seismic investigation report regarding the treatment plant site.  Gerry Millar , lead engineering
geologist with Milbor-Pita, concluded that evidence of seismic faulting or ground rupture were lacking
in the trenches excavated by King County over the summer.  Millar and Milbor-Pita have been
retained by Snohomish County since 2002 to provide independent analysis of the various studies of
the treatment plant site’s geology.
 
“The review of the seismic investigation report by my technical staff and by Milbor-Pita and Associates
has been thorough and complete.” said Craig Ladiser, Director of the Department of Planning and
Development Services, and the Snohomish County Building Official.  “These findings satisfy
the seismic investigation requirements negotiated with King County in the Brightwater Development
Agreement, and document compliance with the International Building Code.” Ladiser said.
 
Earthwork for the wastewater treatment plant has been underway since last spring on the
Woodinville-area site.  Review and issuance of the plant’s building permits is expected to be
completed by February, 2007.