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Everett, Wash., November 1, 2023—Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC) is hosting a virtual event on November 7, 2023, featuring a discussion with the Port of Everett on port boundaries and potential expansion. 

In 2018 and 2019, the Port conducted a Strategic Plan outreach effort, which revealed community interest in expanding its boundaries to serve more of Snohomish County. The Port currently covers most of Everett, parts of Mukilteo, and areas in unincorporated Snohomish County near Marysville, totaling around 110,000 residents. In contrast, Snohomish County’s population is nearly 830,000 and growing, with only about 15% currently having access to Port resources. 

The Port’s current boundaries limit its ability to invest in areas outside of its jurisdiction, hindering collaboration with neighboring communities on economic and community priorities, such as transportation improvements, job opportunities, community revitalization, recreational amenities, environmental initiatives, and more. 

In response to community interest, the Port Commission tasked staff with exploring the possibility of boundary expansion, which includes an economic value study, a legal assessment, and a community assessment to gauge the desire for Port partnership in specific areas. 

As part of this exploratory effort, the Port of Everett plans to share insights and answer questions during the November 7 virtual discussion, from 8:30 to 9:30 am.  

EASC’s Coffee Chats event is open to the public and will be held virtually. To attend, click here to RSVP to receive a Zoom link. Click here to provide feedback through a community survey to help the Port shape its next steps. 

About Economic Alliance Snohomish County: 

As the largest regional economic development organization in Snohomish County, and county-wide chamber of commerce, Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC) supports a globally competitive regional economy in which all businesses can thrive and participate equally.  

About the Port of Everett: 
The Port of Everett is a special purpose district tasked with economic development. Through operation of international shipping terminals, the largest public marina on the West Coast and real estate development ventures, the Port of Everett supports nearly 40,000 jobs in the region and contributes $433 million to state and local taxes. The Port strives to bring quality jobs, business, and tourism opportunities to its local and surrounding communities, and is committed to enhancing, restoring and preserving the overall environmental health of the waterfront. Port properties provide numerous public access and recreational opportunities for area residents and visitors to enjoy, supporting a vibrant, livable and balanced waterfront. 

SOURCE: Economic Alliance Snohomish County

Author: Lynnwood Times Staff