With funds for dike repair, Stanwood steps toward reducing flood risk
STANWOOD — The century-old dike west of Stanwood is all that stands between the town and the ever-rising tides of the Puget Sound. As it has begun to show its age, the threat of flooding has loomed large in residents’ minds.
Thanks to a grant of nearly $2 million from Snohomish County announced last week, the dike is one step closer to a much-needed renovation aimed at preventing the risk of environmental damage and displacement. Project managers and city leaders say the cash infusion will likely help them secure more funding towards the repairs, slated to begin next year.
Stanwood Mayor Sid Roberts is still haunted by the call he got one December morning in 2021, just two weeks or so after he’d taken office. The dike west of town, essentially a 4-mile mound of dirt and grass, had broken, and the only thing he could think about as he raced to the scene were the throngs of Christmas shoppers and leisurely lunchers just a short distance away in the city’s downtown.
The only buffer between them and the sea would be 2,200 acres of lush farmland, destroying local farmers’ livelihoods. Much of downtown Stanwood, including homes, schools and medical facilities, would be completely underwater. Highway 532, connecting Camano Island to the mainland, would likely be submerged.
https://www.heraldnet.com/news/with-funds-for-dike-repair-stanwood-steps-toward-reducing-flood-risk/