Fairhaven quiet zone update: We’re nearing completion of safety improvements needed to designate the Fairhaven area as a quiet zone, which would reduce train horn noise while also enhancing safety at railroad crossings. In collaboration with the Port of Bellingham and BNSF, we’re finalizing just a couple of remaining improvements required for approval by the Federal Railway Administration. We’re also working toward a quiet zone in the downtown waterfront area. After the recently completed F Street crossing upgrades, three remaining crossings still need some additional safety features. We’re committed to finding the funding to get these done, but the timeline is still unknown. For ongoing updates and to learn more about the quiet zone process, visit our Railroad Crossing Safety and Quiet Zones page.
Remembering 25 years: This June we remember the lives lost and the environment impacted by the 1999 Olympic Pipeline tragedy. Join us as we reflect, learn and celebrate the resilience of our community. We are collaborating with partners on several community commemorative events, including a Community Remembrance Gathering on June 10. Stay tuned for more details in the weeks ahead about ways to honor the past and continue to work together for a safer future.
Air Quality at Post Point: We are working with the Northwest Clean Air Agency to address some concerns regarding air emissions for the sewage sludge incineration units at the Post Point Resource Recovery Plant. Our efforts include: reviewing the applicability of the federal air quality regulations for sewage sludge incinerators; evaluating the need for additional permits related to maintenance work; and taking actions to reduce carbon monoxide emissions regardless of whether those reductions are needed to meet air emissions standards. We are committed to operating the Post Point plant in compliance with all applicable air quality regulations. Learn more about incineration at Post Point and follow our progress.
Meet-a-truck and more: Join us next week (May 19-25) in celebrating National Public Works Week! From keeping our streets, sewers and sidewalks maintained, keeping our drinking water clean, protecting our waterways, restoring habitats, advancing alternative transportation, and so much more, our Public Works professionals impact the daily lives of everyone in our community. Join us at our Public Works events next week! Read with the Crew at the Bellis Fair Library Branch on May 22 from 11 a.m. to noon. Join us for a special preschool storytime with Public Works staff and trucks on display. Meet-A-Truck on May 23 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in front of City Hall. Come check out the big trucks and equipment that keep your streets, storm drains, sewer, and water lines running smoothly. Activities include crafts, a scavenger hunt, and more! The events are FREE, all ages welcome.
Speaking of commemorative weeks: This week we’re celebrating our Bellingham Police Department team for National Police Week. Since 1962, the week surrounding National Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15) has been celebrated as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. This week we also honor our officers, and those of our partner agencies, for choosing to pin on their badge at the start of every shift, not knowing what each call has in store. Thank you all for your dedication and service to our community.
Improving public spaces
Meridan and Illinois Roundabout: Heads-up! Construction is starting on Meridian and Illinois roundabout. This project isn’t just about a new traffic flow – it’s about creating a safer and more accessible intersection for everyone. Crews are starting work at Illinois and Meridian to get ready to install the new roundabout at the intersection. There will be traffic impacts for about two months for construction, so keep an eye out for flaggers and plan some extra time to get around! Remember, the short-term inconvenience will lead to a long-term improvement of people walking, biking and driving.
