Author: Will Tygart

  • Mason County Special Election: 2026 Ballot & Voting Guide

    Mason County Special Election: 2026 Ballot & Voting Guide

    April 28 Special Election: Mason County ballots were mailed April 7, 2026. Ballot processing began April 13. Results were available after 8 PM on April 28. The North Mason School District replacement levy was among the measures on the ballot — and voters approved it (see the October 2026 update below).

    Last refreshed: October 27, 2026 (Pacific) — election outcome added: the North Mason levy passed, certified May 8, 2026.

    Mason County’s April 28 Special Election — What Was on the Ballot

    If you were a registered voter in Mason County, your April 28 Special Election ballot arrived in April. Ballots were mailed out on April 7, and Mason County began processing them on April 13.

    Results were available after 8 PM on Election Day, April 28. The Mason County Auditor’s office handled all ballot questions — 360-427-9670 ext. 468 during business hours, or 360-968-4131 after hours.

    October 2026 update: The April 28, 2026 levy passed — about 53.5% yes (2,130 to 1,851), certified May 8, 2026 — at a reduced $1.01 per $1,000 rate ($18.9 million over 2027–2030), down from the $1.28 ask voters rejected twice in 2025.

    North Mason School District Replacement Levy

    The most consequential item for many Mason County residents was the North Mason School District’s replacement levy — the district’s third attempt to pass the measure after failures in February and November 2025.

    The levy renews an expiring four-year measure, collecting $18.9 million over 2027–2030 ($4.5 million in 2027, rising to $4.95 million in 2030) to fund programs and operations not covered by state basic education funding. That includes athletics, arts, music, counseling, security staff, and classroom support. The estimated rate is $1.01 per $1,000 of assessed property value. The $5,577,446-per-year, $1.28 figures in earlier versions of this page were the failed 2025 asks, not the April 2026 measure.

    Prior levy failures had already resulted in roughly $4.5 million in district budget cuts and staff reductions. Because voters approved the measure, the further reductions a third failure would likely have triggered for the 2026–2027 school year did not come to pass on that ground.

    Key Dates

    • April 7 — Ballots mailed to registered voters
    • April 13 — Ballot processing begins
    • April 20 — Last day to register to vote by mail or online
    • April 28 — Election Day; vote centers open until 8 PM; results after 8 PM

    How to Return Your Ballot

    Ballots had to be received or postmarked by April 28. Ballots could be dropped at any official Mason County drop box — locations are listed at masoncountywa.gov. To track your ballot status, visit VoteWA.gov and select “Your Ballot and Voting Materials.”

    Questions? Contact the Mason County Auditor at 360-427-9670 ext. 468 during business hours.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Mason County April 2026 Election

    When is the Mason County Special Election?

    April 28, 2026. Results were available after 8 PM. Ballot processing began April 13.

    What is on the Mason County April 28 ballot?

    The North Mason School District replacement levy was among the measures on the ballot, and voters approved it. Check your specific ballot for all items in your district.

    How do I return my Mason County ballot?

    Ballots could be dropped at any official Mason County drop box or mailed postmarked by April 28. Track your ballot at VoteWA.gov.

    What is the last day to register to vote in the April 28 election?

    April 20, 2026, by mail or online. Same-day registration is available in person at the Mason County Auditor’s office on Election Day.

    Related: North Mason School District Levy: April 28 Ballot Guide

  • North Mason Fire Pancake Breakfast: April 26 in Tahuya

    North Mason Fire Pancake Breakfast: April 26 in Tahuya

    Pancake Breakfast: The North Mason Regional Fire Authority held a pancake breakfast from 6 to 11 AM on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at Station 81, located at 14880 NE North Shore Road in Tahuya. The event was open to the public.

    Last refreshed: October 27, 2026 (Pacific) — the April 26, 2026 breakfast is complete; this page is now a record of the event. (Date note: April 26, 2026 was a Sunday; earlier versions of this page said Saturday.)

    North Mason Firefighters Hosted a Pancake Breakfast in Tahuya on April 26

    Families headed out to Tahuya on the morning of Sunday, April 26 — the North Mason Regional Fire Authority put on a pancake breakfast at Station 81 and everyone was welcome.

    The breakfast ran from 6 to 11 AM at Station 81, 14880 NE North Shore Road, Tahuya, WA 98588. It was a classic community fundraiser and a chance to meet the firefighters who serve Belfair, Tahuya, and the surrounding North Mason area.

    About Station 81

    Station 81 is the North Mason Regional Fire Authority’s Tahuya station, serving the Tahuya area on the Hood Canal side of North Mason County. The station has been a community fixture since the 1960s. It’s staffed during daytime hours seven days a week as part of the Fire Authority’s coverage across the region.

    The North Mason Regional Fire Authority was formed in 2014 when Mason County Fire Districts 2 and 8 merged. It serves Belfair, Tahuya, Dewatto, and surrounding communities — roughly 24,000 residents across 136 square miles of Mason and western Kitsap counties.

    Event Details

    • Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026
    • Time: 6 AM – 11 AM
    • Location: Station 81 — 14880 NE North Shore Road, Tahuya, WA 98588
    • Open to: The public

    Frequently Asked Questions: Pancake Breakfast at Station 81

    When is the North Mason firefighters pancake breakfast?

    Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 6 to 11 AM at Station 81, 14880 NE North Shore Road, Tahuya, WA 98588.

    Is the pancake breakfast open to everyone?

    Yes. The event was open to the public.

    Where is North Mason Fire Station 81?

    Station 81 is located at 14880 NE North Shore Road in Tahuya, WA 98588. Phone: 360-275-6478.

    What is the North Mason Regional Fire Authority?

    The North Mason Regional Fire Authority serves Belfair, Tahuya, Dewatto, and surrounding communities in northeastern Mason County and western Kitsap County. It was formed in 2014 from the merger of Mason County Fire Districts 2 and 8.

  • Belfair Easter Event: The Hoppening Donations & Volunteers

    Belfair Easter Event: The Hoppening Donations & Volunteers

    The Hoppening: The HUB Center for Seniors in Belfair is hosting its annual Easter egg event on Saturday, April 19. The HUB needs candy and small toy donations to fill 50,000 eggs, plus volunteers to help stuff them before the event. The HUB is located at 111 NE Old Belfair Highway in Belfair.

    The Hoppening Is April 19 — The HUB Needs Egg Stuffers and Donations Now

    The HUB Center for Seniors in Belfair is putting on its annual Easter egg event — The Hoppening — on Saturday, April 19, and they need the community’s help to pull it off.

    The goal: stuff 50,000 eggs with candy and small toys. That takes a lot of hands and a lot of supplies, and the HUB is actively looking for both donations and volunteers before the event.

    How to Help

    The HUB is accepting candy and small toy donations at their location at 111 NE Old Belfair Highway, Belfair. Volunteers are also needed to help fill the eggs before April 19.

    To sign up to volunteer, visit the HUB between 10 AM and 4 PM, Monday through Thursday. Stop by, let them know you want to help, and they’ll get you set up with a shift.

    About the HUB Center for Seniors

    The HUB Center for Seniors serves the North Mason community with programs, activities, and support for older adults in the Belfair area. It’s a genuine community anchor — and events like The Hoppening show how the HUB connects generations and brings the neighborhood together around something fun.

    If you have leftover Easter candy, individually wrapped treats, or small toys that would fit in a plastic egg, bring them by before the event. Every donation helps.

    Frequently Asked Questions: The Hoppening 2026

    When is The Hoppening at the HUB in Belfair?

    Saturday, April 19, 2026 at the HUB Center for Seniors, 111 NE Old Belfair Highway, Belfair, WA.

    How do I volunteer to stuff eggs for The Hoppening?

    Visit the HUB at 111 NE Old Belfair Highway between 10 AM and 4 PM, Monday through Thursday, to sign up for a volunteer shift before April 19.

    What donations does the HUB need?

    Candy and small toys suitable for stuffing into plastic Easter eggs. Drop off donations at the HUB during regular hours (10 AM–4 PM, Monday–Thursday).

    What is the HUB Center for Seniors?

    The HUB Center for Seniors is a community center in Belfair that provides programs and activities for older adults in the North Mason area.

  • North Mason School District Levy: April 28 Ballot Guide

    North Mason School District Levy: April 28 Ballot Guide

    What’s on the ballot: North Mason School District voters are deciding on a four-year replacement levy in the April 28, 2026 Special Election. Ballots were mailed April 7. This is the district’s third attempt after levy failures in February and November 2025.

    North Mason School District Is Asking Voters to Try Again — Here’s What’s at Stake on April 28

    If you live in the North Mason School District — which includes Belfair and surrounding areas — there’s a ballot on its way to your mailbox right now. The April 28, 2026 Special Election includes a replacement levy for the North Mason School District, and it’s the third time in about a year that the community has been asked to vote on it.

    Ballots were mailed out April 7. Mason County’s ballot processing begins April 13, with results expected after 8 PM on April 28.

    What the Levy Does

    This is a replacement levy — not a new tax. It renews a levy that voters originally approved in 2022 and that expired at the end of 2025. The district is asking to collect up to $5,577,446 per year from 2026 through 2029 to fund programs and operations that state funding doesn’t cover.

    The estimated tax rate is $1.28 per $1,000 of assessed property value in 2026, declining slightly in subsequent years. For a home assessed at $400,000, that works out to roughly $512 per year.

    Levy dollars pay for things the state’s basic education formula doesn’t fund: extracurricular activities, athletics, arts and music programs, counseling, security staff, transportation support, and classroom materials beyond the minimum required by the state.

    What Happened After the Levy Failed

    The February 2025 failure triggered immediate consequences. North Mason cut roughly $4.5 million from its budget and began staff reductions. The district passed resolutions authorizing layoffs and reductions in hours. Superintendent Kristine Michael described the district as “squeezing every dollar” to maintain essential services.

    A November 2025 renewal attempt also fell short — finishing at approximately 48.5% support, just under the 50% plus one vote required for passage. Without levy funding restored, further reductions remain on the table for the 2026-2027 school year.

    Schools in the North Mason District

    The North Mason School District serves students across Belfair and the surrounding North Mason area. District schools include North Mason High School, Hawkins Middle School, Belfair Elementary, and Sand Hill Elementary — all located on or near the district campus in Belfair.

    How to Return Your Ballot

    Ballots must be received or postmarked by April 28, 2026. Drop boxes are available across Mason County. For drop box locations and ballot tracking, visit the Mason County Auditor’s website at masoncountywa.gov or call 360-427-9670.

    Frequently Asked Questions: North Mason Levy April 2026

    What is the North Mason School District levy vote date?

    April 28, 2026. It’s part of Mason County’s Special Election. Ballots were mailed April 7.

    Is this a new tax or a replacement of an existing levy?

    It’s a replacement levy — a renewal of the levy voters approved in 2022 that expired at the end of 2025. It is not a new tax.

    What happens if the levy fails again?

    The district would continue operating without levy funding, which covers roughly 10% of its budget. Further budget cuts and program reductions beyond those already made would likely follow for the 2026-2027 school year.

    How much does the levy cost property owners?

    The estimated rate is $1.28 per $1,000 of assessed property value in 2026. For a home assessed at $400,000, that’s approximately $512 per year.

    Where can I drop off my ballot?

    Drop box locations are available on the Mason County Auditor’s website at masoncountywa.gov. Ballots must be received or postmarked by April 28.

  • AEW Everett: Dynamite & Collision Double Taping Guide

    AEW Everett: Dynamite & Collision Double Taping Guide

    AEW in Everett: All Elite Wrestling brought both AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision to Angel of the Winds Arena on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Two tapings, one night — a rare double-header for wrestling fans in the Pacific Northwest.

    Last refreshed: October 27, 2026 (Pacific) — the April 15, 2026 double taping is complete; this page is now a record of the event.

    AEW Came to Everett on Wednesday, April 15 — Dynamite and Collision Both Taped at Angel of the Winds

    Wrestling fans in Everett got a rare treat. All Elite Wrestling brought back-to-back live tapings to Angel of the Winds Arena on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 — both AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision filmed in Everett on the same night.

    This kind of double-taping is uncommon and meant fans in attendance saw material that aired across two different TV programs. AEW Dynamite airs on TBS, and AEW Collision airs on TNT — both are core programming for the second-largest professional wrestling promotion in North America.

    What Is AEW?

    All Elite Wrestling launched in 2019 and quickly established itself as the primary alternative to WWE. Founded by Tony Khan, AEW features top-tier in-ring talent including Samoa Joe, Swerve Strickland, and a roster of international stars. The product skews toward hard-hitting, athletic wrestling and has a passionate fanbase across the Pacific Northwest.

    Event Details

    • Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
    • Venue: Angel of the Winds Arena, 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett WA 98201
    • Shows: AEW Dynamite (TBS) + AEW Collision (TNT) — both tapings same night
    • Tickets: Were available at angelofthewindsarena.com and at the Les Schwab Box Office

    Why It Was a Big Night for Everett Wrestling Fans

    Live wrestling events in the Pacific Northwest are not everyday occurrences. Angel of the Winds Arena has become one of the more active mid-size arenas for touring wrestling and live events, and a double-taping night gave the local fanbase a full evening of live television-quality wrestling.

    For anyone on the fence about attending a live AEW event, it was an especially good entry point — two shows’ worth of storyline progression in a single evening, all from a seat in Everett.

    How Tickets Were Sold

    Tickets were available at angelofthewindsarena.com and through the Les Schwab Box Office at the arena. The AEW website (aew.com) carries the current AEW schedule.

    Frequently Asked Questions: AEW in Everett April 15

    What is AEW Dynamite and Collision?

    AEW Dynamite is All Elite Wrestling’s flagship weekly show airing on TBS. AEW Collision is the secondary show airing on TNT. Both are live professional wrestling programs from the second-largest wrestling company in North America.

    When is AEW coming to Everett?

    Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett. Both Dynamite and Collision taped the same night.

    Where can I buy tickets for AEW in Everett?

    Tickets were available at angelofthewindsarena.com and through the Les Schwab Box Office at Angel of the Winds Arena, 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett WA.

    Is AEW appropriate for kids?

    AEW events are generally family-friendly — think of it like a rowdy sporting event. Kids who enjoy professional wrestling will have a great time. The arena environment is energetic and loud.

  • Jetty Island Cleanup 2026: How to Volunteer on April 18

    Jetty Island Cleanup 2026: How to Volunteer on April 18

    Jetty Island Cleanup Day: The Port of Everett held its 32nd annual Marina & Jetty Island Cleanup Day on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9 AM to noon. Volunteers helped restore and maintain one of Everett’s most beloved natural landmarks, meeting at the Fishermen’s Tribute Plaza on the Everett waterfront.

    Last refreshed: October 27, 2026 (Pacific) — the April 18, 2026 cleanup is complete; this page is now a record of the event. (Date note: April 18, 2026 was a Saturday; earlier versions of this page said Friday.)

    Jetty Island Cleanup Day Was April 18 — How Volunteers Got Involved

    Jetty Island is one of Everett’s most beloved outdoor destinations — a two-mile-long natural sandbar in Port Gardner Bay that draws swimmers, kayakers, and families every summer. And every spring, volunteers come together to get it ready for the season.

    This year’s Jetty Island Cleanup Day was Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9 AM to noon. If you’ve ever spent a summer afternoon on Jetty Island, it was a chance to give something back.

    What Volunteers Do

    Cleanup volunteers typically help remove debris and litter that has washed ashore over the fall and winter months, clear trails, and help prepare the island for the summer ferry season. The work is hands-on and outdoors — comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes are recommended.

    The Port of Everett manages Jetty Island and coordinates the annual cleanup in partnership with community volunteers. Past cleanups have brought out hundreds of Everett residents, school groups, and local organizations.

    About Jetty Island

    Jetty Island was formed over decades from dredge spoils deposited by the Army Corps of Engineers during maintenance of the Port of Everett’s navigation channel. It has since evolved into a thriving natural habitat — home to shorebirds, seals, and native plants — as well as a popular destination for Everett families.

    The Jetty Island Ferry runs from McIntyre Park in Everett during the summer months, making the island accessible without a boat. Summer programming for kids is also available through the City of Everett Parks Department.

    How Sign-Up Worked

    To volunteer for the April 18 Jetty Island Cleanup, volunteers signed up through the Port of Everett at portofeverett.com/marinacleanup — registration was encouraged but not required — or contacted the Port directly.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Jetty Island Cleanup 2026

    When is the Jetty Island Cleanup?

    Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9 AM to noon. Volunteers met at the Fishermen’s Tribute Plaza, across from Bluewater Organic Distilling at the Port of Everett waterfront.

    How do I sign up to volunteer?

    Registration ran through portofeverett.com/marinacleanup; it was encouraged but not required.

    What should I bring to the Jetty Island Cleanup?

    Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Gloves are helpful. The Port typically provides bags and tools.

    Can kids participate in the Jetty Island Cleanup?

    Yes — past cleanups have included families and school groups. Check with the Port of Everett for any age requirements for youth volunteers.

    When does the Jetty Island Ferry start running for summer?

    The Jetty Island Ferry typically begins service in late June or early July from McIntyre Park. Check the City of Everett Parks Department for the 2026 schedule.

  • Washington Coast Earthquake Swarm: No Threat to Everett

    Washington Coast Earthquake Swarm: No Threat to Everett

    What happened: Starting around midnight on April 12, a swarm of more than 18 earthquakes struck the Juan de Fuca Ridge, roughly 250 miles off the Washington coast. The largest reached magnitude 4.2. Experts say the swarm poses no threat to people on land in the Pacific Northwest, including Everett.

    Last refreshed: October 27, 2026 (Pacific) — the April 12, 2026 swarm is complete; this page is now a record of the event.

    Earthquake Swarm Off Washington Coast: What Everett Residents Need to Know

    A swarm of earthquakes struck far off the Washington coast on Sunday, April 12, 2026, but seismologists said there was no cause for concern for people in Everett or anywhere else on land in the Pacific Northwest.

    The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN) reported that since around midnight on April 12, more than 18 earthquakes were detected at the Juan de Fuca Ridge — a tectonic spreading center located approximately 250 miles offshore of Washington state. The largest quake in the swarm reached magnitude 4.2.

    Why This Is Not a Land Threat

    The PNSN was clear in its assessment: the earthquakes are not located anywhere near the Cascadia Subduction Zone — the fault system that scientists watch most closely for potential large earthquake risk to the Pacific Northwest coast.

    The quakes are also not at the Axial Seamount Volcano, an undersea volcano that has received attention in recent years due to predictions that it may be nearing an eruption. Axial Seamount eruptions are entirely underwater and do not pose a surface threat.

    Earthquake swarms at the Juan de Fuca Ridge are a natural and relatively common occurrence. The ridge is a mid-ocean spreading center where tectonic plates are gradually moving apart — a process that generates seismic activity regularly.

    What Is the Juan de Fuca Ridge?

    The Juan de Fuca Ridge is an underwater tectonic boundary roughly 250 miles west of the Washington and Oregon coasts. It’s part of the system that also creates the Juan de Fuca Plate — the relatively small tectonic plate that subducts (slides under) the North American Plate along the Cascadia Subduction Zone. However, earthquake activity at the ridge itself, far offshore, does not translate into risk for the Seattle-Everett metro area.

    Should Everett Residents Be Concerned?

    No. This swarm is a distant, offshore geological event. However, it’s always a reasonable time to review your household earthquake preparedness — the Cascadia Subduction Zone remains a long-term seismic risk for the Pacific Northwest, and preparedness is something every Snohomish County household should maintain regardless of what’s happening offshore.

    The Washington Emergency Management Division recommends keeping at least three days of emergency supplies on hand, including water, food, and a first aid kit. Snohomish County’s emergency management resources are available at snohomishcountywa.gov.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Washington Earthquake Swarm

    Is the earthquake swarm off Washington a threat to Everett?

    No. The swarm is approximately 250 miles offshore at the Juan de Fuca Ridge, far from the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Experts at the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network say there is no threat to people on land.

    How many earthquakes were in the swarm?

    More than 18 earthquakes were recorded as of noon on April 12, 2026, with the largest reaching magnitude 4.2.

    What is the Juan de Fuca Ridge?

    An underwater tectonic spreading center about 250 miles off the Washington coast where the Juan de Fuca Plate and Pacific Plate are gradually moving apart. Seismic activity here is normal and does not indicate risk to coastal communities.

    Is this related to the Cascadia Subduction Zone?

    No. The PNSN confirmed the quakes are not near the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which is the fault system that poses the main long-term seismic risk to the Pacific Northwest.

    Should I update my earthquake preparedness?

    It’s always a good idea. The Washington Emergency Management Division recommends keeping at least three days of emergency supplies at home — water, food, flashlight, first aid kit, and important documents.

  • Edgewater Bridge & Mukilteo Boulevard: 2026 Corridor Guide, Everett Transit Route 3 & Bike Paths

    Edgewater Bridge & Mukilteo Boulevard: 2026 Corridor Guide, Everett Transit Route 3 & Bike Paths

    Updated Nov 2, 2026 — refreshed with reopened corridor guide, Everett Transit Route 3 schedules, and winter driving advisories.

    Edgewater Bridge Corridor Guide: Following the completion of its $34.9 million seismic replacement project and its official reopening to traffic on April 28, 2026, the new Edgewater Bridge now carries West Mukilteo Boulevard safely across the Edgewater Creek ravine. Connecting the City of Everett and the City of Mukilteo, the modern bridge replaces a structurally deficient 1946 timber-and-concrete span and restores vital multimodal mobility between the two Puget Sound communities.

    Edgewater Bridge Commuter Quick Facts

    • Corridor: West Mukilteo Boulevard (Everett–Mukilteo municipal boundary)
    • Crossing: Edgewater Creek Ravine
    • Total Project Investment: ~$34.9 million ($28M federal bridge grant program, $6M local partnership)
    • Current Status: Fully reopened to all vehicular traffic, transit, cyclists, and pedestrians
    • Structure & Dimensions: Modern seismically resilient steel-reinforced concrete structure; two 12-ft travel lanes, two dedicated 5–6 ft bicycle lanes, two 6.5–8 ft ADA-compliant sidewalks with scenic viewing bump-outs
    • Public Transit Connection: Everett Transit Route 3 (restored direct service between Everett Station and Mukilteo Ferry Terminal / Seaway Transit Center)

    After a multi-year construction closure that detoured thousands of daily commuters via SR 526 and Evergreen Way, the corridor is fully operational. Today, motorists, Everett Transit Route 3 riders, cyclists, and pedestrians enjoy a modern, seismically engineered crossing equipped with separated multi-use facilities and scenic viewing areas overlooking Puget Sound and the forested ravine.

    Bridge Specifications & Multimodal Infrastructure

    The Edgewater Bridge replacement is one of the most significant municipal public works achievements in Snohomish County. The original 1946 bridge was declared functionally obsolete and seismically vulnerable. The modern replacement delivers substantial safety enhancements:

    • Vehicle Travel Lanes: Two standard 12-foot travel lanes designed for modern vehicle and transit capacity.
    • Dedicated Bike Lanes: Two 5-to-6-foot buffered bike lanes providing dedicated cycling access across the ravine.
    • ADA Pedestrian Walkways: Two 6.5-to-8-foot concrete sidewalks featuring safety railings and scenic bump-outs for viewing Possession Sound and Edgewater Creek.
    • Transit Reliability: Engineered to accommodate standard heavy transit buses and emergency service vehicles without weight restrictions.

    Winter Driving & Corridor Navigation (November–March)

    West Mukilteo Boulevard is a scenic, winding arterial route that traverses dense evergreen canopy and steep ravine terrain between Everett and Mukilteo. As seasonal winter weather arrives in early November, drivers and cyclists should prepare for specific corridor conditions:

    • Steep Ravine Grades & Curvature: The approaches on either side of Edgewater Creek feature winding grades down to the bridge deck. Maintain the posted speed limits (30–35 mph) and exercise caution on curves.
    • Fallen Wet Leaves & Slick Roadways: Heavy autumn leaf fall from surrounding deciduous trees creates slick road surfaces when saturated by coastal rain. Increase braking distances accordingly.
    • Marine Fog & Black Ice: Positioned above Edgewater Creek ravine near Possession Sound, the bridge deck is susceptible to rapid cooling, localized freezing fog, and black ice formation during winter cold snaps.
    • Municipal De-Icing Priority: The City of Everett Public Works department classifies West Mukilteo Boulevard as a priority arterial for winter anti-icing brine applications and snow plowing to preserve emergency response and transit access.

    Everett Transit Route 3 & Regional Trail Connectivity

    The reopening of Edgewater Bridge directly restored Everett Transit Route 3 to its permanent alignment, ending 15 months of lengthy highway detours along SR 526 (Boeing Freeway) and Evergreen Way. Route 3 provides seamless public transit linking downtown Everett Station with the Mukilteo Multimodal Ferry Terminal and Sounder commuter rail station.

    For cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts, the bridge serves as a critical non-motorized regional link connecting Mukilteo’s extensive Japanese Gulch trail system with Everett’s Harborview Park and waterfront walking corridors, creating a safe, continuous pedestrian and cycling route above Puget Sound.

    Part of Everett’s Bigger Infrastructure Momentum

    The Edgewater Bridge opening reflects Everett’s sustained infrastructure investment. With Sound Transit Link light rail extensions progressing, comprehensive waterfront port redevelopment accelerating, and regional transportation arteries modernized, the City of Everett continues upgrading core civic assets.

    Related Everett & Snohomish County Regional Guides

    Municipal & Transit Public Contacts

    For corridor maintenance, transit schedules, and municipal project records, consult official agency offices:

    • City of Everett Public Works: 3200 Cedar St, Everett, WA 98201 | Phone: (425) 257-8800 | 24/7 Dispatch: (425) 257-8821
    • City of Mukilteo Public Works: 11930 Cyrus Way, Mukilteo, WA 98275 | Phone: (425) 263-8000
    • Everett Transit Customer Service: 3201 Smith Ave (Everett Station), Everett, WA 98201 | Phone: (425) 257-7777 | Website: everetttransit.org
    • Mukilteo Ferry Terminal (WSDOT Ferries): 707 Front St, Mukilteo, WA 98275 | Phone: (206) 464-6400 | Terminal Info: wsdot.wa.gov

    Frequently Asked Questions: Edgewater Bridge & Mukilteo Boulevard

    Is the Edgewater Bridge currently open to traffic?

    Yes. The Edgewater Bridge officially reopened to all vehicular traffic, Everett Transit Route 3 buses, cyclists, and pedestrians on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, following a multi-year seismic replacement project.

    What bus route uses the Edgewater Bridge?

    Everett Transit Route 3 operates across Edgewater Bridge along West Mukilteo Boulevard, providing direct public transit service between Everett Station and the Mukilteo Ferry Terminal / Seaway Transit Center.

    What are the dimensions of the new Edgewater Bridge?

    The rebuilt bridge features two 12-foot standard vehicle travel lanes, two 5-to-6-foot dedicated bicycle lanes, and two 6.5-to-8-foot ADA-compliant sidewalks with scenic pedestrian viewing bump-outs over Edgewater Creek ravine.

    Who funded and built the Edgewater Bridge replacement?

    The ~$34.9 million infrastructure project was led by the City of Everett in close intergovernmental coordination with the City of Mukilteo, utilizing $28 million in federal bridge grant funding alongside $6 million in local partner investments.

  • Skate America 2026 Everett: Tickets, Dates & Details

    Skate America 2026 Everett: Tickets, Dates & Details

    Skate America 2026: The U.S. Figure Skating Grand Prix event returns to Everett’s Angel of the Winds Arena on November 13–15, 2026. It’s the third time the arena has hosted the event and Skate America’s first visit to Everett since 2018. In 2026 it is the fifth of six stops in the ISU Grand Prix series.

    Last refreshed: October 27, 2026 (Pacific) — the event runs November 13–15, 2026; schedule and ticket details below were re-verified against Angel of the Winds Arena and U.S. Figure Skating.

    Skate America Is Coming Back to Angel of the Winds Arena in November

    Everett is getting a world-class figure skating event this fall. U.S. Figure Skating has announced that the 2026 Skate America — one of six stops on the International Skating Union (ISU) Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series — will be held at Angel of the Winds Arena on November 13–15, 2026.

    The event is being hosted in partnership with the Snohomish County Sports Commission and marks the fifth time Skate America has been held in Washington State. For Angel of the Winds Arena, it’s the third time hosting the prestigious event — cementing Everett’s reputation as one of the premier destinations for major figure skating in the country.

    What Is Skate America?

    Skate America is the U.S. stop in the ISU Grand Prix series, drawing the top-ranked figure skaters in the world. In 2026 it is the fifth of six stops in the series — the second consecutive year it has held that slot — and it feeds directly into the Grand Prix Final held later in the season. Competitors include Olympic medalists and World Championship contenders across four disciplines: men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance.

    The last time Skate America came to Everett was 2018 — so this is a significant return for regional fans of the sport. The arena’s listed lineup includes World Champion and Olympic gold medalist Ilia Malinin and two-time Olympian Jason Brown, U.S. pairs team Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov, and ice dancers Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik (lineup subject to change).

    Session Schedule

    • Thursday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. — Official Practice (all-session ticket holders)
    • Friday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m. — Session 1: Men’s Short Program & Pairs Short Program
    • Saturday, Nov. 14, 2 p.m. — Session 2: Women’s Short Program & Rhythm Dance
    • Saturday, Nov. 14, 6:25 p.m. — Session 3: Men’s Free Skate & Pairs Free Skate
    • Sunday, Nov. 15, 11 a.m. — Session 4: Free Dance & Women’s Free Skate

    Schedule is the arena’s current tentative schedule and is subject to change — Saturday’s session split and start times were revised from U.S. Figure Skating’s April announcement, so check angelofthewindsarena.com before you go.

    How to Get Tickets

    All-session tickets went on presale for Friends of Figure Skating members on Tuesday, April 21 at 10:00 AM PT, with a fan and venue presale on Wednesday, April 22. The public on-sale opened Thursday, April 23 at 10:00 AM PT. Single-session tickets followed on July 16, 2026.

    Tickets are available now at the Les Schwab Box Office at Angel of the Winds Arena or online at angelofthewindsarena.com. All-session packages include entry to all competition sessions plus official practices beginning November 12. More details at usfigureskating.org.

    Why This Is a Big Deal for Everett

    Angel of the Winds Arena has quietly become one of the most active mid-size event venues in the Pacific Northwest. Between the Silvertips playoff runs, AEW wrestling events, Billy Strings concerts, and now Skate America’s return for the first time since 2018, the arena is drawing national attention.

    “Hosting Skate America in Everett is a privilege for Angel of the Winds Arena,” said General Manager Corey Margolis of Oak View Group. The Snohomish County Sports Commission has played a key role in securing the event each time.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Skate America 2026 in Everett

    When is Skate America 2026 in Everett?

    November 13–15, 2026 at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, WA.

    When did Skate America tickets go on sale?

    Public on-sale was Thursday, April 23, 2026 at 10:00 AM PT, after a Friends of Figure Skating presale on Tuesday, April 21. Single-session tickets went on sale July 16, 2026. Tickets are available now at angelofthewindsarena.com.

    What disciplines are at Skate America?

    Men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance — all four Olympic figure skating disciplines.

    Has Everett hosted Skate America before?

    Yes. The 2026 event is the third time Angel of the Winds Arena has hosted Skate America and the fifth time the event has been held in Washington State.

    How do I get to Angel of the Winds Arena?

    Angel of the Winds Arena is located at 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA 98201, just off I-5. Parking is available on site and in nearby garages.

  • Silvertips Game 3: Everett Leads Kelowna 2-0 in Round 2

    Silvertips Game 3: Everett Leads Kelowna 2-0 in Round 2

    Silvertips Round 2 Snapshot: The Everett Silvertips beat the Kelowna Rockets 4–1 in the 2026 WHL Western Conference Semifinals. Everett won Games 1 and 2 at home, won Game 3 in Kelowna 4–1 on Tuesday, April 14, lost Game 4 in overtime, then clinched the series in Game 5 in Everett.

    Last refreshed: October 27, 2026 (Pacific) — the April 2026 series is complete; this page is now a record of the series.

    Silvertips Won Games 1 & 2, Then Closed Out Kelowna in Five Games

    The Everett Silvertips advanced to the WHL Western Conference Finals by beating Kelowna in five games. After a dominant first-round sweep of the Portland Winterhawks — outscoring them 25–5 across four games — the Tips carried that momentum into Round 2, winning back-to-back games against the Kelowna Rockets at Angel of the Winds Arena.

    Game 1 ended 4–1 on Friday, April 10. Game 2 went 4–2 on Saturday, April 11 in a physical contest that grabbed headlines beyond the scoreboard. The series then shifted to Prospera Place in Kelowna for Games 3 and 4.

    Game 1 Recap: Busch Leads the Way in 4–1 Win

    Shea Busch opened the scoring on the power play in the first period, and the Silvertips never looked back. Matias Vanhanen scored the eventual game-winner in the second period and added an empty-net goal in the third — two goals on the night — with Julius Miettinen also finding the net on a breakaway. Everett went 5-for-5 on the penalty kill — a theme that would define the series.

    Kelowna’s only goal came from Ty Halaburda, who beat goaltender Anders Miller just 23 seconds into the second period. Rockets goalie Harrison Boettiger made 36 saves but couldn’t overcome Everett’s efficiency at both ends of the ice.

    Game 2 Recap: Miller Shines, Special Teams Win the Night in 4–2 Win

    Saturday’s game was louder and more intense. Kelowna came out flying in the first period, outshooting Everett 20–11, but the Silvertips went 6-for-6 on the penalty kill and Anders Miller made 37 saves on 39 shots to seal the win.

    Goals from Zackary Shantz, Jaxsin Vaughan, Carter Bear (power play), and Julius Miettinen (power play) gave Everett the 4–2 final. Kelowna’s Hayden Paupanekis and Owen Folstrom scored for the Rockets.

    The game was stopped midway through the third period when Kelowna forward Ty Halaburda was stretchered off the ice after a hit by Everett’s Jaxsin Vaughan. Halaburda remained conscious and was transported to Providence Regional Medical Center. On April 13, the Rockets confirmed he had been released from the hospital, would travel home to Victoria, and would be out for the remainder of the season as he recovered from a head injury.

    Game 3 Recap: Silvertips Win 4–1 in Kelowna, Take 3–0 Lead

    Game 3 was played at Prospera Place in Kelowna on Tuesday, April 14 at 7:05 PM PDT. Everett won 4–1: after a scoreless first period in which Kelowna outshot Everett 16–4, Matias Vanhanen and Brek Liske scored 24 seconds apart in the second, Julius Miettinen made it 3–0, Tomas Poletin scored a power-play goal for Kelowna in the third, and Lukas Kaplan sealed it with a penalty-shot goal. Anders Miller stopped 36 of 37 shots. Game 4 followed Wednesday, April 15, also in Kelowna.

    Kelowna had yet to beat Everett in any game that season — the Silvertips went 4–0–0–0 against the Rockets in the regular season, though three of those four wins were decided by a single goal, and the Rockets had swept the Kamloops Blazers in the first round.

    Everett’s offensive drivers in the series were Carter Bear (Detroit Red Wings prospect), Julius Miettinen (Seattle Kraken prospect), Landon DuPont, and Matias Vanhanen, and the penalty kill was near-perfect across Round 2 under coach Steve Hamilton.

    Kelowna avoided the sweep in Game 4, rallying from 3–0 down to win 4–3 in overtime on April 15. Game 5 was therefore needed at Angel of the Winds Arena on Friday, April 17, and Everett won it 2–1 in overtime — Landon DuPont scored 40 seconds into overtime after Carter Bear’s shorthanded opener — to clinch the series 4–1 and advance to the Western Conference Championship for the first time since 2018.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Silvertips Round 2

    What was the Silvertips’ playoff record through Round 2?

    Everett swept Portland 4–0 in Round 1 and beat Kelowna 4–1 in Round 2, advancing to the Western Conference Finals.

    When is Silvertips Game 3?

    Game 3 was Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 7:05 PM PDT at Prospera Place in Kelowna, BC. Everett won 4–1. It streamed free on Victory+.

    What happened to Ty Halaburda?

    Kelowna forward Ty Halaburda was stretchered off the ice during Game 2 after a hit by Everett’s Jaxsin Vaughan. He was transported to Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett and reported alert and conscious. On April 13, the Rockets said he had been released, would return home to Victoria, and would miss the remainder of the season with a head injury.

    How can I watch Silvertips away games?

    Games 3 and 4 in Kelowna were available to stream free on Victory+ (victoryplus.com) and on 104.7 The Lizard radio.

    Who are the top scorers for the Silvertips in the playoffs?

    Julius Miettinen led the Silvertips in playoff scoring. Matias Vanhanen, Carter Bear, Landon DuPont, and Shea Busch were also significant contributors.