Renton

Renton
Motto(s):  "Ahead of the Curve"
Area
• Total	61.0 km2 (23.54 sq mi)
Population  (2020)
• Total	101,300
Website	rentonwa.gov

Renton is a city located in King County, Washington, United States. It is situated on the southeastern shore of Lake Washington, just south of Seattle. With a population of approximately 101,300 as of 2020, Renton is the eighth-largest city in the state of Washington.

History

Renton was officially incorporated as a city in 1901. The area was originally inhabited by the Duwamish people, who lived off the land and utilized the nearby rivers for transportation and fishing. The arrival of European settlers in the mid-19th century led to the establishment of coal mines and timber mills in the area, which contributed to the city's early growth.

During World War II, Renton became a major center for aircraft manufacturing. The Boeing Company, one of the world's largest aerospace manufacturers, established a plant in Renton that produced various aircraft, including the famous Boeing 737. The Boeing Renton Factory, located near the Renton Municipal Airport, remains a significant employer in the city to this day.

Geography

Renton covers a total area of 23.54 square miles, with approximately 13.79 square miles of land and 9.75 square miles of water. The city is bordered by Lake Washington to the west, the Cedar River to the south, and the city of Newcastle to the east. Renton's location provides easy access to major highways, including Interstate 405 and State Route 167, making it a convenient hub for commuters.

Economy

Renton has a diverse economy, with major industries including aerospace, technology, healthcare, and retail. The Boeing Renton Factory, as mentioned earlier, is a significant contributor to the city's economy. Other notable companies with a presence in Renton include PACCAR, Providence Health & Services, and IKEA.

The city is also home to several shopping centers, such as The Landing and Southcenter Mall, which provide a wide range of retail and dining options for residents and visitors alike.

Education

Renton is served by the Renton School District, which operates numerous public schools in the area. The district includes several elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools, providing quality education to students of all ages.

For higher education, Renton is home to Renton Technical College, a public technical college that offers a variety of vocational and technical programs. The college provides opportunities for students to gain practical skills and knowledge in fields such as healthcare, engineering, and business.

Recreation

Renton offers a variety of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The city has numerous parks and green spaces, including Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, which features a swimming beach, walking trails, and picnic areas. The Cedar River Trail, a popular multi-use trail, runs through Renton and provides scenic views of the river and surrounding nature.

Renton also has several community centers and sports facilities, where residents can participate in various activities and sports leagues. The Renton Community Center and Renton Memorial Stadium are among the notable facilities in the city.

Notable People

Renton has been home to several notable individuals, including:

• Jimi Hendrix - Legendary musician and guitarist.
• Gary Payton - Former professional basketball player.
• Ann Rule - True crime author.
• Kenny G - Grammy-winning saxophonist.

External links

• Official website
• Renton Reporter - Local news source