First Street Master Plan

The underground utilities beneath First Street are almost 100 years old and need to be replaced soon. Many of the metal pipes are far beyond their intended lifespan, with heavy mineral build-up that reduces water flow and increases the risk of leaks and breaks.

There are also large gaps under many sidewalks, left over from when the street was built over older structures. As those underground areas settle, sidewalks are cracking or buckling. In some cases, these gaps have even allowed water to seep into nearby basements or foundations without being noticed.

While these sidewalks are the responsibility of adjacent property owners to repair, the City's need to replace the utilities beneath them creates the opportunity to invent in upgrading all of the infrastructure at the same time. This means streets, sidewalks, parking, street trees, lighting, crosswalks, and more. This infrastructure project is focused on enhancing Historic Downtown Snohomish while preserving its rich character and heritage for generations to come. 

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Project Timeline

Just like any infrastructure or construction project, the first step is preliminary planning. This master planning process is the first phase of a long-term effort. It will explore all options to address the key concerns we've heard from businesses, customers, and community members over the years.

The process will be ongoing and collaborative, with draft plans shared for public feedback, revisions made based on input, and updated drafts shared again, ultimately leading to a final master plan presented to the Council in late 2025 or early 2026.

The final master plan will guide the City in securing funding for future street design, engineering, construction documents, and construction. This overall project will take several years to design and build.

Project Area

The master plan process will focus on the planning and design of distinct segments of First Street, considering factors such as adjacent buildings, land uses, and riverfront access. The end result will be a cohesive design that enhances walkability, accessibility, and vibrancy, strengthening downtown Snohomish as a dynamic community destination and the heart of the community. 

Area 1: Avenue D to Maple Avenue

• Strengthen connections to Kla Ha Ya Park and Cady Landing
• Improve pedestrian accessibility and activate the gazebo space at the south end of Avenue A

Area 2: Avenue J to Avenue D

• Enhance pedestrian corridors and expand/improve parking options
• Develop connections to the future park planned at the City Operations and Maintenance site (1801 First Street)
• Establish linkages to the Riverview Wildlife Refuge Trail

Area 3: Maple Avenue to Lincoln Avenue

• Improve pedestrian connectivity to existing and planned non-motorized networks