Bellingham fan zone fun continues
More than 6,600 people joined us at the two fan zone watch parties last Friday, June 19, and we hope you had as much fun as we did! Both the Commercial Street Block Party and Trackside Beer Garden brought the energy with food trucks, giant screens, activities for all ages, and plenty of community spirit as we cheered Team USA to a victory over Australia.
The fun continues tonight, June 25, at Trackside at 6 p.m. (kick off is at 7 p.m.). Insider tip: Stop by the City booth early for a chance to spin to win one of the coveted fan zone scarves!
Trackside is leveling up next Wednesday, July 1, with a second screen, a bigger viewing area, and a second match on the schedule. Catch the action at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Whatcom Museum names new Executive Director
After an extensive nationwide search, the Whatcom Museum Foundation Board of Trustees selected Jessica Borusky (they/them) to lead the Whatcom Museum. Jessica joins us from the Pratt Fine Arts Center in Seattle, where they served as executive director. They begin their new role next week. Learn more in Whatcom Museum’s press release. Welcome aboard, Jessica!
Bellingham Public Library marks America 250
We hold this truth to be self-evident, that the freedom to read and think freely is a fundamentally American right upheld by the public library. In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Bellingham Public Library put together reading lists exploring a range of perspectives. Our nation’s history is complex, and we encourage our community to participate in the pursuit of learning and civic engagement.
The Library is also joining the Made By Us Wish Wall project. We’ll be collecting wishes for the future at the Whatcom Museum’s Free First Friday on July 3, and hope to see you there! Learn more about America250 on the organization’s website.
Speaking of the Fourth of July…
To prep for the Port of Bellingham’s annual fireworks show, a section of the ASB waterfront trail will be closed July 2–6. Catch the show at the Peoples Bank Fourth of July Spectacular at Zuanich Point Park. Family-friendly games, activities, and food vendors start at 4 p.m., and the fireworks display kicks off at 10:30 p.m.
Reminder: All consumer fireworks are prohibited within Bellingham City limits, including sparklers, fountains, and other “safe and sane” fireworks.
Improving public spaces
Improving water quality and supply in the Birchwood neighborhood
Construction began this week on the second phase of a water quality improvement project in the Birchwood neighborhood, focused along the Pinewood corridor and West Illinois Street. This phase adds new pollution treatment facilities designed to filter stormwater runoff that previously flowed untreated into Little Squalicum Creek, helping improve the creek’s overall water quality.
While working in the area, we are also replacing a 100-year-old water main under West Illinois to ensure a more reliable drinking water supply for the neighborhood for many years to come.
Residents and visitors may experience temporary traffic impacts during construction, including one-lane closures and detours. Follow our project page for updates.
Update on James Street Closure (North of Bakerview)
The full closure of James Street between Bakerview and Kellogg has been extended through July 10. Crews have encountered several unforeseen challenges, including delays with large patch repaving, utility and tree‑related complications, and additional work needed to complete the retaining‑wall reconstruction.
We know extended closures are disruptive, and we appreciate your patience as we work to safely finish this portion of the project. Flaggers will continue to assist drivers, people walking, and nearby residents during business hours.
This project delivers a key connection identified in our Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plans, with final designs shaped by community input favoring a shared multi-use path. Learn more on our project page.
