Plan that will reshape Evergreen Way approved

A plan that is expected to reshape and revitalize Evergreen Way was approved by the City Council Wednesday night.

The changes should create a very different type of development than what's largely present now, one focused on improving the overall character of Everett's main north-south commercial corridor.

The plan includes making better connections from Evergreen to surrounding neighborhoods and improvements that should make it easier for people traveling by foot. Around transit stations, extra regulations encourage pedestrian-friendly, higher-density development.

The standards do not force property owners to change existing buildings. Rather, the goal is to slowly change the character of the corridor over time as new developments are built and buildings are remodeled. Developers are offered incentives for creating such development. Much of the cost of improvements would be borne by private developers as they build or redevelop properties.

Councilman Paul Roberts instigated the idea for a corridor plan a number of years ago. It took untold hours by city staff and consultants to make it happen. The city's commitment to transit-orientated development is building a foundation for generations, he said. "It sets the stage to make Everett a better place."

Find background information and documents here. Find the ordinances that helped make the plan become law here.