Council approves design contract for 90 First Avenue SE multiuse path phase 2

The Lake Stevens City Council authorized the mayor Sept. 23 to sign a design contract with Frisbon Consulting Inc. for Phase 2 of the 90 First Avenue SE multiuse path, which would fill the remaining gap in pedestrian and multiuse connections between 20th Street SE and 12th Street.

Senior civil engineer Ben Armanage told the council Phase 2 completes the last sidewalk gap on 90 First and will include design to 100% and some bid services. Staff reported the total project cost is approximately $3.1 million. The project already has a Transportation Benefit Program (TBP) allocation and received a Safe Routes to School grant; staff said the city has applied to the Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) for an additional $800,000 to help cover construction.

Armanage said the design schedule targets completion of design in March 2026 with construction starting in June 2026 and finishing before the next school year. The project includes stormwater improvements, retaining walls in sloped areas, cultural‑resource considerations and pedestrian‑scale lighting.

Council members asked about unit costs and the higher per‑linear‑foot estimate relative to a simple sidewalk; staff explained the added costs reflect stormwater infrastructure, slope mitigation and wetland and cultural‑resource work. Council acknowledged the first phase’s success and noted anticipated pedestrian demand.

The council moved, seconded and approved authorization for the mayor to sign the Frisbon Consulting design contract by voice vote.

Next steps: finalize design scope and schedule, await TIB funding decision, and incorporate grant funding to minimize local TBP contributions.