The Skagit County government meeting held on April 29, 2025, focused on several key infrastructure projects aimed at improving transportation safety and environmental sustainability in the region. The meeting began with a detailed presentation on the Friday Creek fish passage project, which is set to cost approximately $150 million. This initiative will address existing barriers along Interstate 5 between Exit 240 and North Lake Samish by replacing 12 culverts with five larger ones, enhancing fish mobility and creating a more sustainable ecosystem. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, with a complete road closure planned for Lake Samish Road during this time.

Next, the discussion shifted to the S.R. 20 Burlington to Sedro-Woolley project, which will introduce three single-lane roundabouts to improve safety and mobility along the corridor. This $10 million project is scheduled for the summer of 2026 and aims to eliminate left turns at intersections, directing traffic through the roundabouts instead.

The meeting also addressed the Childs Creek project on Highway 20, which aims to mitigate flooding issues that frequently affect the roadway. Plans include realigning the creek and raising the road to allow for better natural water flow, with construction expected in 2027, pending funding.

Further discussions included the replacement of culverts at Nookachamps and Hansen Creeks on S.R. 9, scheduled for 2026, and the Cole Creek project, which will replace a small culvert with a larger one to improve fish passage. This work is set to begin in the summer of 2025.

Additionally, the Campbell Lake Road project, funded by the Samish Nation, will involve constructing a single-lane roundabout over two years due to poor soil conditions. The first year will focus on soil preparation, followed by the roundabout construction in the second year.

The meeting concluded with a brief overview of future projects, including various fish barrier removals and road sustainability efforts planned for 2026 and beyond. Traffic engineer Josh then addressed ongoing traffic safety measures, particularly at Pulver Road, where striped islands will be implemented to reduce accidents.

Overall, the meeting highlighted Skagit County's commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure while prioritizing environmental considerations and public safety.