Developer John Su drops appeal contending determination on Kemper helistop proposal

Local developer John Su has backed off an effort to block a proposed helistop at the Bank of America building in downtown Bellevue.

Su had appealed the SEPA (State Environmental Policy Act) determination of non-significance for that plan. He was scheduled for a hearing with the city's hearing examiner on July 10, but the meeting is now cancelled.

Kemper Development has applied for a conditional-use permit to operate the proposed landing pad.

The state requires government agencies to complete a SEPA environmental review before making a determination on a conditional-use permit.

Su told the Reporter in June that the proposed helistop would affect the quality of life for downtown residents.

He currently has plans for at least two downtown developments. One is in the permitting stages and the other is a 22-story residential complex called Ashwood Commons, located near Northeast 10th Street and 112th Avenue Northeast.

Two sound studies have already been done to test the effects of helicopter landings and takeoffs at the proposed helistop site, with both analyses determining that the impacts would be minimal.

Residents living in and around the downtown core aren't convinced. They've continually raised concerns about noise and safety.

Bellevue’s development-services department has recommended approval of Kemper's conditional-use permit application with conditions.

The hearing examiner must make a ruling on the application by July 17, although the decision is appealable to the city council.

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