The University of Washington is looking to open a branch campus in north Snohomish County but the location is still undetermined. In a study by NBBJ determine the best location for a branch campus was at Everett Station with Marysville/Smokey Points site was 2nd, Everett waterfront in 3rd and Lake Stevens in 4th.
In an article by Mark Spitzer, on The Seattle Times titled “Everett ideal for UW branch“, Spitzer says we need to “we need to think regionally as we act locally”. Even though the Everett Station will maximize the use transportation I am surprised that expanding the Everett Community College campus was not part of the top 4 sites recommended. Everett Community College already has the college infrastructure in place, excellent location for residents as well as transit stops a half of block from the campus.
The differences between the locations is not much but the gain of having a 4 year accredited university serving the Snohomish County region is extremely high. With a university so close offering 4 year degrees (maybe even graduate degrees) would reduce student’s commutes by hours allowing them to use that time for studies instead of sitting on I-5. Right now students either have to go to the University of Washington, Bothell or Western Washington University in Bellingham.
It would also make it easier for working parents to further their education and take advantage of opportunities by employers which they can not do now due to the travel distances. This would allow for many to further their education and advance their careers.
2 Comments
That would be a big boon for the area. There is talk of a sports arena (AGAIN) for Las Vegas, some place downtown. Two things that bring a lot of money to an area.
Does Las Vegas need more ways to bring in money?
It would be a big bonus to the area and make it easier for residents to obtain a higher education without sitting in traffic.