Comments sought on Smokey Point development

ARLINGTON — City officials are looking for community input on their long-term planning efforts in Smokey Point and Island Crossing.

The city will be holding an open house meeting at 5 p.m., on Oct. 20, at the Stillaguamish Senior Center for residents to weigh in on its preliminary plan, which could change the streetscape and zoning regulations currently at the Smokey Point and Island Crossing areas.

The change would combine the two areas into one West Arlington Sub-Area Plan for planning purposes.

“We’re getting initial plans together and we’re going to take them to the public for feedback,” said Troy Davis, an independent contractor working on the project for the city.

Davis said the plans would change the city’s comprehensive plan to allow new types of zoning within Smokey Point and Island Crossing.

Those proposed zoning changes would not affect home owners or raise taxes in the area.

“Changes are going to be different but that doesn’t mean that people are going to be kicked out of their homes,” Davis said.

Davis is working with Arlington Community Development Director David Kuhl and other city staff to create the plan.

The progressive plan would emphasize mixed-used zoning, and create an urban village center within Smokey Point.

Mixed-use zoning typically combines residential and commercial zoning, allowing more crossover, Davis said.

The best example of an urban village center would be what has been proposed in Mill Creek, he said. The center would mix high-density residential, retail and commercial office space in one area.

The city’s comprehensive plan is slated for adjustment in 2010. The 20-year plan is currently being reviewed by the City Council and city officials.

Smokey Point was incorporated into Arlington in 1999.

Since then, the city has been grappling with how best to develop the area.

The city recently annexed the Island Crossing area after 17 years of court battles.

The Stillaguamish Senior Center is located at 18308 Smokey Point Blvd.

Contact Arlington Times Reporter Adam Rudnick at arudnick@arlingtontimes.com or 360-659-1300 Ext. 5056.

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