City offering funding opportunity for downtown arts & culture: Do you have ideas for creative projects and activities that would add beauty, interest or enjoyable experiences downtown? As part of our continuing efforts to improve downtown, we are seeking proposals for projects that can include artwork, interactive exhibits, events, and other features. In 2024, $350,000 is available to fund selected projects – $250,000 of which is from lodging tax revenue, plus another $100,000 in City general funds. An additional $250,000 will also be available each year for more projects in 2025 and 2026. Have an idea you want to get funded? You can learn more about the Request for Proposals (RFP) and find project and application requirements on our website. Proposals are due June 7. Another RFP will be released in October to solicit projects for 2025.
New loo at Waypoint Park: You may have been wondering about the new public restroom at Waypoint Park installed this spring. It’s now open for use! Curious about this restroom’s unique design? These restrooms, known as Portland Loos, were created by the City of Portland to be easy to clean, hard to deface, and safe for everyone. They help deter crime in ways other restrooms don’t, including letting you see if and how many people are inside. This summer we’ll be installing two more loos at locations downtown.
Bike to Work and School Day May 17! May is Bike Month, and we will be out celebrating on Friday, May 17 for your morning commute. Celebration stations all over town will greet bikers who are enjoying an active trip to work or school. Swing by the City of Bellingham’s station on Railroad and Holly, or check out this map to find a station along your commute.
What’s planned for “The Pit” in Fairhaven? On June 3, City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a proposed development for the property at the northwest corner of Mill Ave and 11th Street, commonly called “The Pit”, in Fairhaven. A developer proposes constructing several buildings there that would sit on top of a large parking garage. They’ve asked the City to increase height limits to four stories for parts of the property, which would require a development code amendment. The City agreed to consider changing the code if certain public benefits are included in the project:
- Adding 80 public parking spaces in the private garage.
- Allocating 20 percent of units as affordable housing.
- Dedicating a permanent easement for the South Bay Trail, an outlook towards Bellingham Bay and view corridors and pedestrian connectivity through the site.
Last month, the Planning Commission voted 6-0 recommending approval of the height increase. At the June 3 public hearing, City Council will hear community feedback and consider whether to approve the height increase and the public benefits in the development agreement.
Project updates: Here are a few project updates for when you’re out and about this week. Work continues on the Roeder Lift Station to increase capacity for getting used water to Post Point. Traffic is reduced to one lane at Roeder Avenue and Squalicum Way during the day, with flaggers in place. Work is almost done on the Woburn Street sewer replacement project! Crews are setting manholes and valve covers this week. Pavement markings will be installed in a couple more weeks once the asphalt cures. Work is also starting on 32nd and Elwood to add sidewalks and ADA improvements. Visit our Projects page to learn about other projects in progress or coming soon. Please continue to pay attention and watch for flaggers and workers in all construction areas.
