First responders focus on downtown: As outlined in Mayor Kim Lund’s recent Executive Order, we expanded our community paramedicine program and opened a hub for first responders focusing their work on downtown. Bellingham Fire/EMS and Bellingham Police personnel are using the space to be closer to needs in our downtown core. In the image above, Fire/EMS Captain Steve Larsen visits with Teddy Rivard, co-owner of MW Soapworks, a business located next door to the downtown public safety office. Capt. Larsen leads a community paramedicine team, focused on serving frequent users of emergency medical services who have complex medical needs, including substance use disorders and mental health challenges, assessing their needs and coordinating their care with appropriate resources. The Mayor’s Executive Order outlined immediate actions to address the fentanyl crisis and its negative impacts on the safety and well-being of Bellingham’s downtown. See our Downtown Safety and Community Support page for more information.
City to co-lead environmental analysis of metal processor: This week, the Bellingham City Council approved an agreement between the City and Whatcom County that establishes the City as a co-lead agency in the environmental analysis (State Environmental Policy Act, or SEPA, review) of the metal processing facility proposed by ABC Recycling. Though the final decision about approving the facility will be made by the County, co-leadership of the SEPA review gives City officials a seat at the table to represent the concerns of Bellingham residents more directly in the process. You can learn more about the SEPA process and the City’s role on our website.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Don’t miss the opportunity to embrace the luck of the Irish at the 2024 Bellingham St. Patrick’s Day Parade, happening this Sunday, March 17 at noon. Watch the festivities along the parade route – or even join in the procession – and keep an eye out for the Grand Marshal, Bellingham Police Department’s very own Lieutenant Claudia Murphy. Lt. Murphy, though Ireland-born, is a 30-year veteran at BPD, and a long-time participant in the annual parade. Get all the parade details online, and we hope to see you there!
Speaking of green: Kick off the spirit of the season this Saturday, March 16 by witnessing the lively atmosphere of the annual Running o’ the Green race. Head over to Railroad Avenue and join in the fun as participants decked out in their festive attire take on the course. The excitement kicks off at 10 a.m. – the race is full but join us to cheer on participants and soak up the energetic and green vibes!
Even yard care can be green: This weekend’s sunshine practically screams “yard work!” But before you grab the weed killer, consider tackling your yard care naturally and keep Bellingham beautiful. Our Manage Weeds Naturally webpage has resources to help you to identify weeds and tips and techniques for suppressing weeds and growing a vibrant landscape without chemicals. Let’s ditch the toxins and keep our beautiful city’s waterways clean. Happy weeding!
Improving public spaces
Wharf Street roundabout improvements: Crews will begin work next week to improve the plantings in the roundabout at Wharf and State Streets. Crews will begin pulling out old dirt and plantings to make way for more drought-tolerant soil and vegetation. The work is part of planned beautification projects happening around the city this spring.
Northside transportation improvements: Community members can expect to see a few temporary traffic disruptions as we continue with crucial transportation projects designed to enhance biking and pedestrian access. Expect some detours and flaggers along the way as we make progress. The Parkview Safe Routes to School project is nearing its final stages, with notable features such as a roundabout at Sunset and West Illinois slated for completion this spring. Work will persist along this corridor into the summer, extending improvements to the other side of West Illinois, as well as sections of Meridian and Girard. Up north, Telegraph Road enhancements are also underway. As you navigate these areas, be cautious and respectful of the workers helping make Bellingham an even better place to live and travel.
