Bellingham Parks & Recreation will begin accepting reservations on April 1, 2021, for some outdoor events and park uses that are scheduled for June 1 and beyond.
Bellingham Parks & Recreation Department Director Nicole Oliver said these plans are consistent with Phase 2 of the Governor’s Healthy Washington Roadmap to Recovery Plan, as well as Phase 3, which is expected to begin March 22, 2021.
”We have a pragmatic and resource-based facility re-opening plan that is consistent with health guidelines and increases community recreation options and programs. We are eager to welcome these outdoor events and activities back to our parks,” Oliver said.
On April 1, the department will accept requests for reservable outdoor picnic shelters and outdoor event spaces for uses beginning June 1. Some details:
- Outdoor facility reservations are limited to reservable picnic shelters located throughout the park system.
- Indoor facilities are not available for reservations until after Labor Day weekend, except for the barn at Woodstock Farm.
- Depot Market Square will continue to host the Bellingham Farmer’s Market but is not yet available for general public uses.
- Athletic fields and facilities are available for limited programming run by school districts and other youth sports programs. These programs follow strict state Department of Health guidelines and provide staffing and oversight for the activities.
- The Bellingham Bells are slated to begin their season at Joe Martin Field beginning in June.
- Applications for events open to the public, commercial events, runs and races, requests for open space, or beer gardens will require a separately executed contract, insurance, and a COVID safety plan that demonstrates compliance with state re-opening guidelines. Requests must be submitted at least 30 days in advance, and approval is dependent upon supporting information submitted with application, facility/park availability, peak public use, staff availability. Larger community events requiring street closures or additional requirements will be reviewed and processed at the City’s Permit Center.
Oliver said uses may be expanded based on our community’s continued progress toward a healthy recovery, as well as staff availability. All plans are subject to change based on information from the Governor and Department of Health guidance.
For more information, see cob.org/parks.
