The U.S. Department of Transportation is sending $2 million to Snohomish County to bolster the Everett Intermodal Yard. This federal grant, part of the Better Utilizing Investment to Leverage Development (BUILD) program, targets enhancements for the $34 million rail project aimed at bolstering rail safety and capacity, especially critical for the county's solid waste management system.
According to the Snohomish County announcement, County Executive Dave Somers expressed gratitude for the financial support, "This vital rail project will improve safety and reliability at the Everett Intermodal Yard while allowing us and our rail partners to continue a sustainable, low-impact operation for residents." The grant, a crucial financial piece, was advocated for by Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02), a House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee member, to be included in the federal fiscal year 2026 spending bill.
Infrastructure enhancement doesn't just mean a facelift for current systems; it's also about paving the way for affluence in terms of jobs and economic growth. "Thanks to the hard work of Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers and Public Works Director Kelly Snyder, Snohomish County has the funding it needs to increase the capacity of its rail yard and reduce delays," Larsen said. "In Northwest Washington state, infrastructure means jobs." Larsen's comment underscores the regional impact that improved infrastructure can have, potentially reducing congestion and advancing safety, per the Snohomish County announcement.
