Snohomish, a small town with big dreams, plans for a livable future with UW researchers

Researchers hope to improve economic development in Snohomish, a charming small town named after the Lushootseed-speaking Coast Salish people of the Puget Sound area.



With plenty of charm and a vibrant downtown, Snohomish (population 10,000) sits at the confluence of the Snohomish and Pilchuck rivers. Originally used by the sduhubš (Snohomish people) and then populated with white settlers in the late 1850s, the city draws visitors with its scenic historic district and small businesses. This past year, through the UW’s Livable City Year not-for-profit initiative, Snohomish worked with MBA and Master of Urban Planning students to research the business landscape, look for opportunities for growth and help plan for climate change. A research team of students and faculty from the main campus and UW Tacoma found the business community wanted to promote tourism, preserve historic buildings and see more resources for community safety and small-business development. Learn more here.