Throughout the state, school districts are struggling to find space to build new schools. This is in large part due to rapid population increases and land development regulations established by the Growth Management Act.

As a way to help school districts find space to build new schools, Sen. Steve Conway, D-South Tacoma, sponsored Senate Bill 6426 which would allow schools to be sited outside the urban growth area.

“This is especially important legislation for the Bethel School district which has simply run out of options for where they can build new schools,” said Conway. “Bethel has located a site just outside of the urban growth area that has a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier and is the perfect location for a place of learning. With this bill, they will be able to put this land to good use.”

SB 6426 was passed by the Senate on Feb. 16. It now heads to the House for further consideration.