Snohomish Plans Bickford-Weaver Signal for Early 2027 Start

The city of Snohomish is moving forward with infrastructure upgrades along Bickford Avenue, with one project ready for construction and another awaiting budget approval. The Bickford and Weaver Road intersection is the first to enter the building phase, while the Bickford and Sinclair Avenue crossing is included in the mayor's proposed 2027-28 budget.

City project engineer Colbi Bertrand confirmed that the Bickford and Weaver signal project is currently out to bid. Once the city selects a contractor, the specific start and completion dates will be finalized. Bertrand noted that the city anticipates construction beginning early next year due to the current season and expected weather patterns.

The project involves installing a new traffic signal and enhancing overall traffic movements at the intersection. The primary goals are to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians and to optimize traffic operations. The Puget Sound Regional Council’s Rural Town Centers and Corridors Program provided a grant of $394,480 to help cover costs. The city will use local funds to pay for the remaining expenses.

A separate proposal for the Bickford and Sinclair Avenue intersection is pending in the 2027-28 budget. This project has not yet been funded, and no construction schedule exists. If approved, the work would include evaluating options for a traffic signal or a roundabout, along with storm drainage improvements, curb ramps, paving, and pavement markings. Temporary erosion and sediment control measures are also part of the proposed plan.

David Clay, a local resident, has raised concerns that the Sinclair and Bickford intersection poses a greater safety risk than the Weaver Road crossing. He cited traffic volumes, vehicle speeds, and recent residential and retail development along Bickford Avenue as key factors. Clay pointed to Sinclair Avenue's connection to 87th Avenue and South Lake Stevens Road, which serves as a common alternate route for drivers avoiding congestion on U.S. 2 and State Route 9.

Clay stated that when disruptions occur on those major highways, Sinclair Avenue becomes a go-to shortcut for commuters. He believes increased traffic from new development has worsened conditions at the intersection of North Bickford Avenue, Sinclair Avenue, and nearby 52nd Street SE. He has urged city officials to install a traffic signal immediately, arguing that infrastructure improvements should match the traffic volumes generated by new development.