Reducing transportation pollution

Transportation activities contribute to most of our regional air and climate pollution. Cars, trucks and other vehicles that run on diesel or gasoline emit greenhouse gas emissions and other toxic pollutants. Switching to other modes of transportation, or opting for more energy-efficient or alternatively-fueled models, helps reduce pollution and improve quality of life in our community.

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

Walk, bike and bus more.

Driving less, and walking, biking or bussing more helps reduce tailpipe and other forms of pollution, as well as ease traffic congestion. The City of Everett continues to create infrastructure and services to accommodate more ways of getting around. 

  • Drive less. As an organization with 100+ employees, the City of Everett participates in the state’s Commute Trip Reduction program. Through this program, we offer employee incentives to reduce the number of drive alone commute trips. This includes our SmartMOVE program, which provides transit passes to employees; support with vanpool/rideshare programs; and flexible work schedules. We also provide other participating Everett employers with training and resources to strengthen their own CTR programs. Learn more about our Commute Trip Reduction program. 
  • Bike more. We’re working to expand and enhance Everett’s bikeways. Check out our bicycle routes, our plans for expansion, safety tips, and other resources, here. 
  • Bus more. Everett Transit connects riders to destinations throughout the city, as well as connections to other public transit agencies and services. We recently made transit even more accessible, with a new Youth Fare Free program, reduced fares for ORCA LIFT, and a subsidized annual transit pass program.
  • Scoot more. Electric scooters are another zero-emission – and fun – way to get around the city. We’re pleased to partner with Bird Scooters to provide electric scooters you can rent at locations throughout the city.

Go electric.

Switching to an all-electric vehicle offers many benefits. They emit zero tailpipe pollution (they don’t even have tailpipes!), can be charged up at home, and are fun to drive! And automakers are releasing an increasing variety of makes and models to provide more options to meet the needs of most drivers. 

The City of Everett is making progress toward electrifying its own fleet, most notably with our transit fleet. We currently have nine all-electric buses, and ten more on order. Our goal is to have a fully electric, zero-emission fleet by the end of 2028. We’re also incorporating electric vehicles into other department fleets, including Everett Police, Everett Fire, and our city motor pool.

Thinking about an electric car for your personal or business use? The Snohomish Public Utility District has an excellent online resource with information and tools to help determine which electric vehicle can best meet your driving needs. They also offer rebates for the purchase and installation of residential charging equipment.

Learn more:

  • Read more about our efforts to electrify our transit fleet, and see this online dashboard to learn how our electric buses are reducing climate pollution while also saving the city money.
  • U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center provides information on vehicle availability, as well as comprehensive list of federal and local incentives.
  • Snohomish Public Utility District has an excellent online resource on electric vehicles. 
  • Check out tax credits and rebates available through the Snohomish Public Utility District.