In 2016 the Washington State Legislature directed WSDOT to study potential improvements to the US 2, SR 204, and 20th Street Southeast interchange near Everett. The summary was provided the Legislature in mid-September.
In December 2016, WSDOT formed a project support team of representatives from Snohomish County, Community Transit, and the cities of Lake Stevens, Everett, Snohomish, Monroe and Marysville. This team worked to identify existing issues and potential future improvements at the interchange. The project support team provided feedback and direction on the future potential improvements throughout the duration of the study.
In spring 2017 the public had an opportunity to provide input on issues and needed improvements through an online survey. Additionally, WSDOT provided updates to the public through the community briefings, gathering additional community input.
WSDOT used findings from the support team and public survey to develop an Interchange Justification Report. These reports are studies required by the Federal Highway Administration to support changes to highways.
The population of Snohomish County has more than doubled since 1980 and is expected to gain another 200,000 residents by 2035. This growth will add pressure to the county’s high-traffic routes, including the US 2, SR 204 and 20th Street Southeast interchange, which already experiences severe congestion during peak commute times. These backups can sometimes spill over onto other highways and surface streets, creating additional congestion.
The final study will assist the Legislature’s plans and decision-making for future projects to improve the US 2, SR 204 and 20th Street Southeast interchange.
The Legislature allocated $1.5 million for this study through the 2016 supplemental transportation budget.
Contact:
Kris Olsen
Communications
206-440-4704
olsenk@wsdot.wa.gov