Everett City Council approves $4.8M stadium project for AquaSox and USL

During the Everett City Council meeting on June 11, 2025, significant progress was made regarding the development of a new sports facility in downtown Everett. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts between the city, the AquaSox baseball team, and the United Soccer League (USL) to advance this project, which aims to meet the evolving standards of Major League Baseball (MLB) and enhance community engagement.

Ben Franz from SOJ presented updates on the project, emphasizing the importance of the evening's discussions as a crucial step forward. The council reviewed three ordinances, including a financial commitment of $4.8 million, budget amendments, and initial approvals for property acquisition. These actions are designed to keep the project on schedule and ensure it remains within the city's financial means.

Franz noted that the AquaSox have been a long-standing part of the Everett community, and the decision to pursue a downtown site for the new facility was made after a comprehensive environmental impact study. This site was chosen to better accommodate the needs of professional athletes and to enhance the overall experience for fans.

The presentation also highlighted the involvement of the USL, which has become a key partner in the project. The design-build team has focused on refining the facility's program to meet league standards while incorporating public open spaces and ensuring the project remains financially viable. Franz reported that extensive discussions have taken place regarding utility relocation, which is a significant cost factor, and that preliminary site work, including surveying and environmental analysis, is underway.

A major takeaway from the meeting was the commitment from both the AquaSox and USL to share revenue opportunities and take on the majority of operational responsibilities once the facility opens. This arrangement is expected to significantly reduce the city's financial burden in maintaining the new sports complex.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Everett City Council meeting underscored a strong collaborative effort to advance the sports facility project, which promises to enhance local sports culture and community engagement while remaining financially sustainable for the city. As the project progresses, further updates and actions will be necessary to ensure its successful completion.