About Public Works

Snohomish County is one of the fastest growing counties in the nation according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This growth presents many challenges for the Public Works department in maintaining and improving critical infrastructure such as roads and bridges, and managing the solid waste and recycling needs of county residents. 


5-Year Strategic Plan: Vision, Mission, and Values


As a core service provider, Public Works has developed a 5-Year Strategic Plan in order to meet the near and long-term needs of our partners and the communities within Snohomish County. The department's Vision, Mission, and Values are at the core of that commitment.

 

Annual Report


The Public Works annual report provides information on the accomplishments and services performed during the previous year:

Organization

 

Public Works is separated into five divisions including Administrative Operations, Engineering Services, Road Maintenance, Transportation and Environmental Services, and Solid Waste. Most of the work is performed in unincorporated areas, but Public Works also partners with cities and/or agencies on various projects to produce the best possible outcomes for residents throughout the county.


In the Field


Public Works is responsible for an estimated 1,600 miles of roads, more than 200 bridges, traffic control assets, sidewalks, crosswalks and bike lanes.


The Solid Waste division is responsible for managing the transfer stations and drop-off stations throughout the county, along with environmental cleanup issues.


Staffing and Operations


Public Works staffs ten facilities throughout the county that provide public services, including:

  • Snohomish County Campus – Everett
  • Cathcart Operations Facility – 8915 Cathcart Way 
  • Arlington Road Shop - Arlington
  • Solid Waste Facilities
    • Airport Road Recycling and Transfer Station - Everett
    • North County Recycling and Transfer Station - Arlington
    • Southwest Recycling and Transfer Station – Mountlake Terrace
    • Dubuque Road Drop Box – 19619 Dubuque Road
    • Granite Falls Drop Box – Granite Falls
    • Sultan Drop Box - Sultan
    • Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Station – Everett


Funding


The department is primarily funded by residents’ taxes and service charges, which are separate from the Snohomish County General Fund. The department also actively seeks out funding through federal, state, and local grants in order to leverage local tax payer dollars.


Serving All Residents


Review the Title VI section for information about the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, a copy of our Title VI Policy Statement, Notice to the Public, and Title VI Plan Updated April 2016; and for complaint procedures, complaint forms, and contact information.



Public Works is also committed to improving public facilities for all residents by adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act.