EVERETT, FEB. 18: In anticipation of increased foot traffic during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Everett City Council approved a special project allocating $250K in grant funds for a downtown renovation project.
The project will replace approximately 35 missing or failing street trees, and refresh 14 planting beds in key pedestrian, gateway, and visitor-facing locations, City Communications Manager Simone Tarver wrote in an email.
Everett was chosen to be a 2026 FIFA World Cup fan zone, becoming a gathering place for soccer fans. The city will host a series of fan celebrations during the FIFA World Cup 26 Seattle, from live match viewings to outdoor concerts and cultural gatherings.
“Tree-lined downtowns attract more foot traffic, encourage longer visits, and support business vitality, while also improving pedestrian comfort and climate resilience,” Tarver wrote.
Areas of focus include the pedestrian corridors of Hewitt Ave. and Rucker Ave., as well as gateways and high pedestrian use areas along Colby Ave., Hoyt Ave., and Wall St.
The project will include replacing missing, dead, or severely damaged trees in the downtown area and mitigation of trip hazards at tree well edges, Tarver wrote.
“Beyond aesthetics, this work represents an investment in proven economic infrastructure,” Tarver wrote. “Research consistently shows that urban trees deliver significant returns through reduced energy costs, increased property values, higher consumer spending in commercial districts, and reduced infrastructure wear.”
The city allocated Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds given by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
In compliance with federal regulations, HUD allows for CDBG funds to be used in a wide range of activities – from public services to public infrastructure, economic development, planning activities, and more, Tarver wrote.
Funding comes from unused CDBG funds from the 2025 Program Year.
The project will be performed by contractors and managed by the Everett Parks & Facilities Department.
