Everett changes rules for Boeing pier

Published 9:00 pm Wednesday, November 26, 2003

EVERETT — The Everett City Council gave final approval Wednesday to a change in its shoreline zoning regulations that will help clear the way for construction of a new pier for the Boeing Co.

City and Port of Everett officials believe the pier, which would likely would be built just northeast of Mukilteo, s needed to persuade Boeing to build its proposed 7E7 Dreamliner jet in Everett.

"This is a significant hurdle for us to build this pier," said Ed Paskovskis, deputy director of the port.

The City Council first approved the changes in its shoreline master plan in July. Last month, the state Department of Ecology approved the changes but asked city officials to slightly change the wording of the ordinance.

"These are only technical changes," city planning director Paul Roberts told the council.

State law requires Ecology Department approval for any changes to the city’s shoreline plans.

The move allows the Port of Everett to bypass zoning changes needed to build the pier, which would be linked by rail to Boeing’s south Everett factory. The council also approved rezoning areas adjoining the proposed pier to allow stores and offices.

The Port of Everett is mulling four alternatives to help Boeing get jet parts from overseas to the factory. The preferred alternative is a 700- to 900-foot pier at Edgewater Beach just northeast of Mukilteo, Paskovskis said.

The Port of Everett will hold a public meeting on the four proposals at 6 p.m. Wednesday in the port commission’s boardroom, 2911 Bond St.

Reporter David Olson: 425-339-3452 or dolson@heraldnet.com