Stanwood, Washington is experiencing a major transformation with the approval and launch of Cedarside Commons—a bold, mixed-use development that aims to tackle the urgent need for more housing, but also brings new infrastructure and traffic challenges to the community.

What Is Cedarside Commons?

Cedarside Commons is a multi-phase, mixed-use community on 21.8 acres located northeast of 72nd Avenue NW and State Route 532, right at one of the city’s busiest crossroads. The project includes:

• 444 apartment units of varying sizes

• 72 townhome units

• 516 new homes total

• 26,000 square feet of retail and office space

• Over 7,000 square feet of recreational amenities

• Native growth area and preserved wetlands to maintain the local environment

The overall project costs are estimated at $229 million, backed by a $180 million mortgage—a testament to its scale and regional significance. Construction is currently underway, with framing and site work very visible at the prominent intersection of 72nd Avenue NW and SR 532. The first homes are expected to be delivered in just over a year, and all phases should wrap up in about three years.

Aerial View of Construction Progress

As of fall 2025, Cedarside Commons is well underway. Below is a striking aerial photo of the construction site, taken by Scott Price while flying his Cessna, with special thanks to his wife Carrie Urling for her assistance. Used with permission.

A Solution for Housing Shortages

Stanwood’s housing market has been extremely tight, especially for renters and first-time buyers. Cedarside Commons promises to relieve some pressure, adding hundreds of new, modern apartments and townhomes within walking distance of schools, shopping, and parks. The development even includes new restaurants, community amenities, and designated green space meant to preserve some of the site’s natural features.

Traffic Troubles and Local Concerns

However, not everyone is celebrating. The intersection at 72nd Avenue NW and SR 532 is notorious for peak-hour backups—especially during school traffic. The city’s own review predicts Cedarside Commons will generate nearly 2,800 additional vehicle trips per day, and about 260 during peak commuting hours. In response, project permits require realigning 268th St NW, constructing a new roundabout at 64th Ave NW/SR 532, and improving surrounding streets and sidewalks.

City officials and the developer stress that these new road improvements are designed to ease the impact, though many residents remain skeptical about whether congestion will get worse before it gets better.

Community Input and Next Steps

Cedarside Commons went through extensive public hearings, drawing public comments both in support of more housing and in concern about parking, zoning, and the effect on the small-town fabric. City officials approved some deviations to encourage more density on the site while requiring strong environmental protections, new infrastructure, and ongoing oversight.

Photo credit: Scott Price (pilot) and Carrie Urling. Used with permission.

Sources:

• Project and planning information from the City of Stanwood Cedarside Commons project page.

• Traffic, zoning, and public hearing details from the official Notice of Hearing Examiner Recommendation.

• Project financing and timeline from Commercial Observer and Traded.

This development is a defining moment for Stanwood, with the promise of new homes, services, and growth—but also a reminder that managing change takes thoughtful planning and sustained community engagement.