The bill establishes a framework for promoting environmentally sustainable urban design in Washington State, recognizing the significant environmental health disparities in urban areas and the role of architectural design in mitigating pollution. It creates a new center for environmentally sustainable urban design within the Department of Ecology, tasked with advocating for sustainable practices, coordinating with local leaders and the private sector, and identifying priority projects that enhance public health and environmental outcomes. The center will also conduct a biennial design competition and award grants for projects that demonstrate health and sustainability benefits.
Additionally, the bill establishes an advisory council to support the center's mission, ensuring diverse representation from various fields related to urban planning and sustainable architecture. The council will review grant applications and provide guidance on the center's annual work plan. Furthermore, it creates an environmentally sustainable urban design account in the state treasury to manage funds received for competitions and grants, ensuring that expenditures are directed towards the goals outlined in the bill.