ARLINGTON – Temporary traffic signals were officially activated Friday to more efficiently and safely manage Island Crossing traffic at Highway 530 and Smokey Point Boulevard.

City officials called getting the trailer-mounted signals working a high priority for the major state highway that averages 23,000 vehicles per day. Higher volumes are expected in the future, especially during peak hours, as growth occurs.

Snohomish County crews added permanent roadway striping and Snohomish County PUD installed more street lighting before the signals could be switched on.

The interim signals will stay put until a steel-pole span wire signal system can be installed next March. The city is funding the $295,869 short-term project.

City elected leaders and staff are working with WSDOT, the county, Stillaguamish Tribe and the state Legislature on a permanent solution that would add a roundabout on the highway just east of the Island Crossing triangle with a realigned boulevard to the south and 27th Avenue to the north feeding into it. The westbound side of the triangle and Smoke Shop entrance would convert to a right turn.