Take a look at this study out of California detailing what drives up costs relative to growth markets like Texas. Many of the same opportunities apply to WA - permitting reform / impact fee reductions / energy code reform.
www.rand.org/pubs/researc...

Using the draft ordinance @eric.anderhold.us linked below, looks like the trolley bus system is included? Wouldn't that overrule the frequent transit service map? Or maybe this is an outdated ordinance?
seattle.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=...