Preliminary renderings of the potential future redevelopment of the Mukilteo waterfront have been released. The renderings are the latest step in a collaborative effort between the Port of Everett and the City of Mukilteo to create a cohesive vision for the development of the undeveloped shoreline properties in Mukilteo, including the former National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration site that is set to return to Port ownership, according to information from the Port of Everett.
Ten years ago, the Port took possession of the former Mukilteo Tank Farm site after an almost two-decade-long endeavor with the U.S. Air Force. In 2016, that land was transferred to local stakeholders for the purpose of commencing the redevelopment process, although much of it remains undeveloped to this day. In 2021, NOAA declared its decision not to proceed with its planned research facility. With more than half of the waterfront area still remaining undeveloped and inaccessible to the public, the development team believes the proposal is an opportunity to drive progress on the Mukilteo waterfront revitalization, according to the project’s website.
The current project began in earnest last year, when the Port acquired the former Mukilteo ferry holding lanes, which comprise slightly less than one acre, along with devising a unified vision for the property. Spanning 26 acres and involving 10 different property owners, the waterfront area encompasses the stretch from Mukilteo’s Lighthouse Park to Edgewater Beach and is the subject of a comprehensive development plan to ensure a diverse and accessible array of uses, according to the Port. NBBJ, an architecture, planning and design firm, was enlisted by the Port to initiate preliminary planning, which included data collection and engaging with the community. For the time being, the Port is operating the site as a commercial parking lot.
Among the goals of the project are developing a comprehensive and flexible parking strategy that adopts a “park-once” approach, leveraging technology and attractive design to optimize accessibility for all waterfront users and enhancing access to the shoreline for various activities, including boating and fishing. The waterfront will prioritize walkability by completing the promenade and carefully designing sidewalks and multi-modal connections. Overall, the site is a regional hub, encompassing ferries, trains, buses, bikes, maritime facilities and various industry contributions to the economy, according to the Port. The project is meant to balance the needs of the community, tourism and operational requirements to facilitate a seamless and shared use of the Mukilteo waterfront.
Presently, the Port and City are actively engaged in devising the framework for a formal partnership that will drive the development process forward. Both parties have established negotiation committees and have commenced discussions during the summer season. The goal is to reach a mutual agreement by the year’s end.
The immediate next step is a Mukilteo Waterfront Redevelopment Open House, scheduled for Nov. 1, at the Rosehill Community Center in Mukilteo. At the meeting, the development team is planning to solicit input from attendees on the recently released early artist renderings that offer a glimpse of the potential future of the Mukilteo waterfront.
