Woodinville council approves Berger Partnership for Eastrail phase 1 framework plan

The Woodinville City Council on Nov. 4 approved a professional services agreement with Berger Partnership to deliver phase 1 of the city’s Eastrail multi-use trail framework plan.

Council moved and unanimously passed a motion to authorize the agreement in the amount stated in the motion. Staff described phase 1 as the “framework plan” that will produce a conceptual alignment, an inventory of existing conditions, high-level transportation and accessibility analysis, and a community engagement and branding program to unify a series of corridor projects.

Asha D’Souza, senior staff presenting the item, said the city’s RAISE grant covers planning, design, engagement and permitting but not construction or right-of-way. She noted the RAISE award provided $5,000,000 of an estimated $7,100,000 project total and reminded council the grant requires all funds be expended by 2033.

Brad McGirt and Guy Michelson of Berger Partnership told council they would produce a framework plan intended to be actionable rather than a “pretty document on a shelf.” McGirt described the effort as “a generational opportunity for the city,” saying the plan will balance enough technical detail to proceed confidently while leaving room to test site-specific ideas.

Councilmembers praised the emphasis on branding and community outreach. Deputy Mayor Randolph said she looked forward to a sense-of-place being established; Councilmember Evans said she particularly welcomed the branding work because the city has “done random acts of artwork without a cohesive plan.”

Staff said Berger’s scope for phase 1 focuses on existing‑conditions inventory, conceptual trail alignment and amenities, infrastructure feasiblity, and robust community engagement. Berger will be eligible for later phases without a new RFQ if council chooses, and staff said the phase‑1 work is expected to finish by 2027.

The motion authorizing the agreement carried unanimously.