More than 120 years after Padden Creek was diverted below ground, the City of Bellingham has completed construction to restore the historic creek to daylight. Community members are invited to join Bellingham Mayor Kelli Linville, representatives from the State departments of Ecology and Transportation, and neighborhood groups and associations, in a celebration 1-2 p.m. Friday, April 1 at Fairhaven Park, east end shelter.
The Padden Creek Daylighting project centered on habitat restoration for fish and wildlife, improving water quality and reducing the potential for flooding. Community members and groups, including the Happy Valley Neighborhood, Padden Creek Alliance and the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, have supported and encouraged the City's work over many years.
Parking will be limited, so carpooling is encouraged. The event will include informational displays on City of Bellingham restoration projects (of which Padden Creek daylighting is one), group photos to commemorate the day, and guided tours to the daylighted site.
The restoration was funded by the City's storm and surface water fund, with support from the Ecology and Transportation For more information on the Padden Creek Daylighting project, click here or visit cob.org and search “Padden Creek.”
