WSDOT proposes $800M transformation of SR 99 corridor in Snohomish County

In Snohomish County, SR 99 could undergo a huge transformation.

The Washington Department of Transportation (WSDOT) proposed several improvements to a stretch of SR 99, including bike lanes, better lighting, sidewalks, safer pedestrian crossings, and improved access to public transit buses, along with general aesthetic upgrades. The proposed plan covers nearly seven miles from Lynnwood toward Everett and could cost up to $800 million. The corridor serves approximately 40,000 vehicles per day.

WSDOT created an online “open house” to gather public input on the potential project. It closes Thursday.

“From the people who use the stretch of roadway and who live in the community, they’re the ones who will help us prioritize the improvements, so it’s really important for everybody’s voice to be heard,” Eric Zackula, a communications representative with WSDOT, told KIRO 7.

The proposed plan comes as WSDOT continues its efforts to reduce fatal and severe crashes on SR 99 while simultaneously improving conditions for those not in vehicles — walking, biking, rolling, and accessing transit — specifically from 212th Street S.W. to Airport Road.

“We are now in the next step of the study, where we are seeking community input to help develop a priority list of improvements, WSDOT wrote. “While there is no funding to complete the improvements, prioritizing them will help identify which should occur first once funding is available. Implementing the full set of recommendations will require significant funding and partnership with jurisdictions and transit agencies.”

Cyclists speak on proposed plan

Some cyclists spoke with KIRO 7, saying creating bike lanes would be redundant because the Interurban Trail runs alongside Highway 99 near 216th Street S.W.

“Given that this trail basically does the same thing that they’re suggesting,” one cyclist, Matt Luthy, said.

“I would especially when it gets dark earlier,” Dawn Boyd, another cyclist, shared. “I don’t take the Interurban when it’s dark.”

This is a developing story, check back for updates

Contributing: KIRO 7

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