A win for local military families
I worked with my colleagues in Congress to pass a series of spending bills, including a crucial allocation of $19 million for military housing in Snohomish County's Navy Support Complex at Smokey Point.
This funding will be utilized to construct 88 new units for military personnel and their families. Not only does this investment ensure accommodation for sailors stationed at Everett's naval base, particularly as it prepares to host a new fleet of guided-missile frigates starting in 2028, but it also underscores the Navy's long-term commitment to the city's waterfront.
Together, we are shaping the future of the Everett station, advocating for smaller vessels and identifying new missions to align with evolving global security challenges, including tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
With the transition to the Constellation class frigates, Everett's naval base will undergo significant enhancements to accommodate the evolving fleet's needs. While the number of sailors based in Everett may decrease slightly, the introduction of these smaller, more versatile ships will enable the Navy to extend its presence across the Pacific and beyond.
Our continued advocacy will help ensure adequate housing, facilities, and quality-of-life amenities for military installations like those in Everett.
More soon,
Rick
