Columbia Archives

Meridian-Birchwood Transportation Improvements

Project Overview The City of Bellingham has updated the scope of the Meridian–Birchwood Transportation Improvement Project (ES564) and is moving it forward to improve safety and traffic flow near two closely spaced intersections. These intersections currently experience major congestion and serve as key connections between the waterfront, the Port of Bellingham, and I-5. The upgrades ... Read more

Little Squalicum Creek Water Quality Improvements Phase 1

Construction work next to a street with an excavator digging a trench.

Project Overview This project is part of a multi-phased approach to improve water quality in Little Squalicum Creek and the new Little Squalicum Estuary by reducing pollution in rainwater runoff – or stormwater – from the surrounding residential area (Bellingham Technical College has private stormwater facilities to treat runoff from their campus). This first phase ... Read more

Westside Non-Motorized Improvements

Looking across an empty crosswalk on the road.

Project Overview The Westside Non-Motorized Improvements Project (ES563) will add and improve bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in 15 locations throughout Bellingham, primarily on the west side of town. The project includes improvements in the following areas: Project Status – November 2024 All improvements are complete. We are continuing to collect data and public input related ... Read more

West Illinois Multimodal Improvements

Aerial map showing red line along West Illinois

Project Overview The West Illinois Multimodal Project (ES561) added sidewalks to West Illinois and added and upgraded ramps to ADA standards. In addition, a small roundabout was installed at the intersection of Meridian Street and West Illinois. Bike facility markings were added on Meridian, Illinois and Girard Streets and Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) were ... Read more

Parkview Safe Routes to School

Group of school-aged girls crossing the street at a crosswalk

Project Overview The Parkview Safe Routes to School Project (ES560) added key regional sidewalks on Coolidge, Indiana, Cornwall, and Vallette Street, along with improvements along West Illinois. The project also added a flashing beacon and crosswalk at Vallette Street. This project improves pedestrian and driver safety along a route to Parkview Elementary School and in ... Read more

Lorraine Ellis Park Playground Renovation

This beautifully renovated park is now open to the public! Park facilities include: playground with a 14’ spiral tube slide, benches, and a trash receptacle. The construction of a concrete walkway to connect the playground and proposed sidewalk along West Illinois is anticipated for 2024. The previous tired and weather-beaten playground area, installed in 1990, ... Read more