Downtown Everett efforts are making a difference

Published 1:30 am Sunday, November 6, 2022

The recent article, (“‘Hungry to shop local,’ but obstacles about in downtown Everett,” The Herald, Oct. 23), captured a snapshot of life in Downtown Everett, and yet there’s more to the story.

Comparing downtown to other towns misses the full picture. Downtown has made huge progress in the past few years, largely due to the Downtown Everett Association. It’s true that our region struggles with the impacts of homelessness. However, we utilize tools that other cities may not have at their disposal. Our downtown Clean Team removes more than 2,000 graffiti tags annually and cleans up garbage and biohazards daily.

The City of Everett partnered with us to bring holiday lights downtown for the first time in decades, with more coming this winter. At the onset of the pandemic, the Downtown Everett Association rescued the sidewalk flower program. We’re supporting a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem by introducing industry experts and providing storefront grants.

Events such as Salty Sea Days, Sip and Shop, and the Downtown Trick or Treat event continue to grow and attract new faces. Much of our work is done by scores of passionate volunteers who believe in downtown’s potential.

These efforts are paying off; many of our businesses made it through the pandemic, some are thriving, and new ones are opening.

So, we’re asking the question: Why not Everett? We believe the time is now to invest in downtown Everett. Here’s a few ways to be part of Everett’s emerging downtown: Shop local, donate, volunteer, start a business, or contact us at Downtown Everett Association to find out more.

Liz Stenning,

executive director

Patrick Hall,

board president

Downtown Everett Association