On Tuesday, April 22, the Port of Everett was recognized for its multi-faceted and innovative efforts to drive economic development in Snohomish County and beyond with Economic Alliance Snohomish County’s 2025 “Opportunity Lives Here” Award.
The Opportunity Lives Here Award recognizes Snohomish County organizations that bring innovation and create opportunities locally and regionally. The Economic Alliance Snohomish County (EASC) presented the Port with the award at its annual meeting and awards celebration on April 22.
“This award reflects something we’ve always believed – that opportunity doesn’t just happen. It’s created,” said Lisa Lefeber, Port of Everett Executive Director/CEO. “It’s built day by day by people who care deeply about the place they live and work, and it’s sustained by bold ideas, tireless efforts, and a shared commitment to something that’s greater than ourselves. Thank you, Economic Alliance of Snohomish County, for this tremendous honor.”
“Congratulations to the Port of Everett’s CEO Lisa Lefeber, Commissioners Simpson, Stiger and Bachman, and the incredible Port staff for being awarded the 2025 Economic Alliance Snohomish County Award ‘OPPORTUNITY LIVES HERE,’” said Ray Stephanson, EASC President & CEO. “The Port of Everett is an amazing economic force creating jobs and advancing the quality of life for Snohomish County citizens. A well-deserved recognition.”
As Snohomish County’s only international seaport, the Port of Everett supports 40,000 jobs in the region. The Port has invested more than $150 million in strategic infrastructure improvements over the past decade to continue to grow and serve our region’s aerospace, military, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, energy and forest products industries.
In addition to maritime modernization, the Port has opened new opportunities through environmental cleanups, industrial development, and supporting new jobs and businesses that will open new opportunities for Snohomish County.
Port Commission Reaction
“This award is a true honor and recognizes the dedication of our entire Port team to create opportunities that drive economic growth and strengthen our community. The Port of Everett has long served as a gateway – not just for commerce but for possibility – and this achievement reflects the tireless commitment, vision, and talent of our team. We are proud to help shape the future of economic and community growth here in Snohomish County.”
- Glen Bachman, Port Commission President
“We are humbled to receive the Opportunity Lives Here Award. The Port of Everett is committed to creating opportunities that don’t just serve today’s economy, but that lay the foundation for future generations of Snohomish County residents to thrive.”
- Tom Stiger, Port Commission Vice President
“This award is a proud moment for the Port of Everett. As stewards of the environment and the economy, we understand that sustainable growth and opportunity go hand in hand, and we’re dedicated to preserving and enhancing our greatest asset – our natural resources – while opening opportunities for industry and community to flourish.”
- David Simpson, Port Commission Secretary
The Port’s future is bright with its billion-dollar public/private mixed-use development, Waterfront Place, soon becoming a reality. Two key developments in Waterfront Place are currently underway. The Port will soon be home to six new restaurants in Fisherman’s Harbor, and the Port’s private development partner, Lincoln Property Company, will soon break ground on the first phase of Millwright District that will include 315 apartments, office space and plenty of public outdoor areas.
At full build-out, the Waterfront Place mixed-use development will include 63,000 square feet (sf) of retail/restaurant space, another 20,000 sf of marine retail, 447,500 sf of office, two waterfront hotels, and up to 660 waterfront housing units. Featured amenities include new trails and regional parks, public gathering spaces, a variety of fine and casual dining, local shops, and marine sales and services. The project’s expected $1 billion in public/private investment is estimated to support nearly 2,100 family-wage jobs and generate $8.6 million annually in state and local sales taxes. To date, the Port has facilitated more than $350 million in public/private investment here, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.portofeverett.com/wpc.
For more information, contact Kate Anderson, Port of Everett Media & Marketing Coordinator, at katea@portofeverett.com.
About the Port of Everett
The Port of Everett is a special-purpose district tasked with economic development. Through its international seaport, public marina and real estate development, the Port of Everett brings jobs, tax base, business and tourism to our community and region. The Port is a committed steward of the environment and waterfront. Port activities support more than 40,000 jobs in the surrounding community and contribute $433 million in state and local taxes.
Source: Port of Everett
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
