** $25M has been spent studying US 2 trestle. Are we any closer to a fix?
The U. S. 2 trestle, vital for connecting Everett and Lake Stevens, has been notorious for traffic congestion and potential seismic risks. Over the last decade, nearly $25 million has been invested in studies aimed at resolving these issues. A current two-year study is assessing lane configurations, the southbound I-5 on-ramp, and the feasibility of high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes.
However, officials warn that finding a swift solution is difficult, particularly in securing federal funding. Originally opened in 1936, the trestle has seen modifications but still struggles to meet the demands of increasing traffic and safety standards, especially in the event of an earthquake. Stakeholders are advocating for a comprehensive plan that balances immediate traffic concerns with long-term infrastructure needs while considering environmental impacts.