Anacortes — The City Council on July 7 authorized a $124,884 contract with First 40 Feet LLC to develop a streetscape plan for Commercial Avenue between 11th Street and the waterfront, aiming to identify pedestrian, bike and economic revitalization measures that preserve downtown character.

Public Works Director Andy Rayum told council staff originally budgeted $80,000 for the project in the 2025 Capital Facilities Plan but that the chosen consultant and scope totaled $124,884; staff said the consultant expects to complete a portion of the work within the current budget in 2025 and seek an additional $45,000 in the 2026 capital plan to finish the work.

Ward McKenzie, board chair of the Downtown Anacortes Alliance, spoke in support of the contract and asked council to use the plan to guide effective, targeted investments.

Why it matters: Council and civic groups have cited downtown economic activity and pedestrian safety as priorities. Councilmembers said a focused streetscape plan could surface low‑cost measures — benches, parklets, street tree choices or painted parking changes — as well as identify larger projects and funding sources.

Key facts

- Contract: First 40 Feet LLC, $124,884.

- Budget context: 2025 capital plan amount listed as $80,000; staff will seek $45,000 in 2026 to cover full contract cost.

- Scope highlights: realistic short‑ and long‑term improvements, public outreach, and identification of state/federal grant opportunities and funding strategies.

Council discussion and vote

Councilmembers generally supported the contract, noting the Downtown Anacortes Alliance’s outreach and the city’s earlier planning work (2016 Comprehensive Plan, ADA transition plan and a downtown safety action plan). Councilmember Fantini moved to authorize the mayor to sign the contract; the motion passed on a roll call. Rayum said the consultant was selected from seven proposals and will coordinate with staff on deliverables and schedule.

Ending: Council emphasized that the plan should focus on work the city can implement affordably and identify concrete near‑term projects alongside longer‑range options. Staff will return with updates and any required budget adjustments.