King County Releases Draft Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Subarea Plan

Public invited to review and provide feedback on the 20-year vision for the region

Apr. 20, 2026 at 7:20am

An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a forest path with dappled sunlight, conveying the tranquility and natural beauty of the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River region.The draft subarea plan aims to preserve the natural environment and rural character of the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River region while guiding future development.Maple Valley Today

King County has published the first draft of the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Subarea Plan, a long-term planning document that will guide the future development and preservation of the unincorporated communities in southeast King County. The public is invited to review the plan and share feedback during a virtual meeting and through online office hours.

Why it matters

The subarea plan will establish a 20-year vision and policy framework to inform King County's decisions on land use, housing, transportation, economic development, and environmental protection in the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River region, which is known for its forests, rivers, and rural character. Community input will help shape the final plan, which will be reviewed by county leadership in 2027.

The details

The draft subarea plan was published by the King County Department of Local Services and covers unincorporated areas such as Hobart, Ravensdale, and nearby rural neighborhoods. It addresses key topics like preserving the region's natural environment and community character while allowing for future growth and development. The public comment period runs from April 15 to May 18, and feedback will be used to create a second draft plan later in 2026.

  • The first draft of the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River Subarea Plan was published on April 20, 2026.
  • A virtual public meeting to discuss the plan will be held on April 23, 2026 at 6 p.m.
  • In-person and online office hours with county planners will be held on April 30 and May 5, 2026.
  • The public comment period will run from April 15 to May 18, 2026.
  • The King County Executive and Council will review a final plan in 2027.

The players

King County Department of Local Services

The county agency responsible for publishing the draft subarea plan and engaging the community.

Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River region

The unincorporated communities in southeast King County that are the focus of the subarea plan, known for their forests, rivers, and rural character.

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What’s next

The public comment period will run until May 18, 2026, and the feedback received will be used to create a second draft of the plan later in the year. The King County Executive and Council will review a final plan in 2027.

The takeaway

This subarea plan represents a collaborative effort between King County and the local community to establish a shared vision for the future of the Greater Maple Valley/Cedar River region, balancing growth and development with the preservation of the area's natural resources and rural character.