Enjoy views of downtown from above
A viewfinder was recently installed on top of the Commercial Street Parking Garage to provide even more opportunities to enjoy downtown and the waterfront. This project is part of an effort to bring more beauty and activity to our community through the City of Bellingham’s Downtown Activation and Beautification Program. Thanks to Downtown Bellingham Partnership for making it happen!
Weigh in on parking reforms
Bellingham City Council will host a public hearing July 13 on changes that would permanently remove parking minimums — rules that require a set number of car parking spaces with new developments and other land uses. Parking requirements, which can be at odds with our community’s housing needs and climate goals, have been on pause since January 2025. In addition to eliminating car parking minimums, these proposed changes would establish requirements for bike parking citywide. Learn more about parking reform.
Iowa Street night work begins next week
We’re kicking off a phased project to help alleviate flooding on Iowa Street. Phase one, beginning next week, will repair aging stormwater lines in the area. Night work is expected to begin on Monday, July 13, in the area around the southbound I-5 off-ramp at Ohio Street, and along Lincoln Street between Kentucky and Ohio Streets. There will be temporary detours and road closures at night for about two weeks while improvements are taking place. Learn about future phases of Iowa Street improvements on our project page.
Last chance to apply for our Landlord Tenant Advisory Group
A new, limited-term advisory group will identify improvements for City rental programs, policies, and practices. We encourage community members with a wide range of tenant and landlord experiences to apply, especially those who are interested in working collaboratively with people from different backgrounds to support safe, affordable rental housing. Learn more and apply on our website by July 15.
Join us at Pride on Sunday
City leaders and staff will march alongside our community at the Pride IN Bellingham parade on Sunday, July 12, beginning at 11 a.m. The parade will travel from Bellingham High School through downtown (keep an eye out for the City cheer station along the route!) and end at Depot Market Square, where the festivities continue. We’re honored to support our LGBTQ communities through sponsoring Pride IN Bellingham. Visit the Pride IN Bellingham website for parade details and the full lineup of Pride Month events.
