(The Center Square) – Snohomish County is using $1.5 million in federal funding for heating and air conditioning improvements at libraries and senior centers during extreme weather events.
The announced funding comes from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, which helps local jurisdictions recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $1.5 million will specifically go toward improving heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems at 22 locations throughout the county. Locations include Everett Public Libraries, Sno-Isle Libraries, Lake Ballinger Center, Monroe Community Senior Center, Sky Valley Center and Stilly Valley Center.
Libraries and senior community centers are typically used as warming and cooling centers during severe weather events. Homes with air conditioning are rarer in Washington than in other US states. A lack of cool air can be fatal during heatwaves.
The 2021 Heat domeA record-breaking heat wave that swept western Washington resulted in 138 heat-related deaths statewide, including 15 in Snohomish County.
“Dangerous weather events such as extreme heat are becoming increasingly common, and these extremes can be deadly,” Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers said in a statement opinion. “Partnerships with libraries and senior centers play a critical role in helping people find help and reduce impacts in our communities.”
Some of the facilities will receive major HVAC system upgrades, while others will use the funds to purchase and install MERV-13 filters during wildfire season. According to the county, ensuring HVAC systems have filtration during wildfire smoke events is even more challenging.
Because of this increasing need, some of the 22 projects will utilize ARPA funding to ensure filtration ensures clean air at the facilities.
Snohomish County has relied on allocated ARPA dollars since 2020. Finally, federal funds helped Overcome the county's challenges and avoid layoffs in the 2025-2026 budget while maintaining services.
Schedules for construction of the 22 HVAC improvement projects vary by county.