Crews have been working around the clock to clear priority travel routes to assist essential services, such as police, fire, and Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA). Individuals are encouraged to limit unnecessary travel and some City facilities are closed today, including all Bellingham Public Library locations, Whatcom Museum and Arne Hanna Aquatic Center.
Forecasts are calling for snow to continue falling throughout the day and neighborhood and side streets are expected to remain challenging. When you need to travel, give plows plenty of room to do their job, give yourself extra time and drive for the road conditions and within your abilities. Consider WTA as an alternative to adding another vehicle on the road.
Impacts to City services on January 17 include:
- All branches of Bellingham Public Library are closed today, Wed, Jan. 17, 2024, and all Library programs and events are cancelled, including Storytimes at Bellis Fair Mall, and Pajama Storytime at Bellingham Central Library, as well as Learn Ukulele, Library Tech Basics sessions, and NAMI Whatcom Resources at the Central Library Skillshare area. All holds due dates and pick-ups will be extended by three days. The Library’s online resources remain open 24/7.
- Parks staff are working to clear parking lots and bathroom access, starting with the community parks. Many park openings will be delayed, and some parks may remain closed while staff address priority areas. Be careful, many areas have slick ice- and snow-covered spots and there may be downed trees.
- Arne Hanna Aquatic Center and Civic Stadium are closed this morning. Arne Hanna will be reassessed as the day progresses, check the webpage for updates on the closure throughout the day.
- The Whatcom Museum campus is closed, including Old City Hall, Lightcatcher and Syre Education Center.
- Bellingham Municipal Court services will be limited to morning jail hearings, with most other court proceedings postponed.
- City Hall will remain open, including the permit center, and many services such as utility billing, are also available online. Building inspections may be delayed depending on street conditions.
Information about emergency severe weather shelters is available from Whatcom County.
Bellingham residents should call (360) 778-7700 or use the SeeClickFix app to report snow and ice removal needs, downed trees on streets, sidewalks or other public property, and other hazardous conditions. More information available at cob.org/snow.
Any additional weather-related impacts will be shared throughout the day on the City’s social media channels.
