Project Overview
The City of Bellingham and Northwest Skate Collective have partnered to give new life to an underutilized space, right where Downtown meets the Waterfront District.
The new skatepark, planned for under the Roeder Avenue Bridge, will create another opportunity for locals and visitors alike to enjoy our Waterfront District. The City will design and build the park, and will partner with the Northwest Skate Collective to fund construction and maintain the space.
Status
The public is invited to join us on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, at 6 p.m. for a Community Meeting at the Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Ave.
A design survey is also open to the public through Nov. 17. It will help shape the park’s details and features, and takes about 10 minutes to complete.
The conceptual design from our partners at Grindline Skateparks is ready. We will use this initial concept to create a more detailed and technical design, which we expect to complete in early 2026.
Construction timing is contingent upon funding.
Background
In 2025, the City agreed to purchase the property from the Port of Bellingham.
The Public Works Department will manage the hiring and oversight of the design and construction teams, partnering with the Northwest Skate Collective to engage with the community on the skatepark’s design.
The Parks Department will also work with the Northwest Skate Collective on maintenance and upkeep of facility. While the maintenance agreement is still in development, it will likely include responsibilities for the Northwest Skate Collective such as conducting regular maintenance assessments, contributing to routine maintenance tasks and volunteer efforts, and fundraising for significant repair or maintenance needs.
In building a new, inclusive recreation amenity, we seek to create a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together, skate, and experience the joy of movement. Additionally, we’ll incorporate cultural and artistic elements into the skatepark design, making it a vibrant and iconic addition to Bellingham.
Funding
The total project budget is capped at $3 million. The City of Bellingham and the Northwest Skate Collective have agreed to divide costs, with the City contributing no more than $1.5 million. City funds will come from a combination of park funds, Real Estate Excise fees, and/or other local funding.
Design Consultant
Grindline Skateparks Inc.
Documents
Contacts
- General project questions: info@cob.org
- Media inquiries: Kelsey Thomas, Assistant Communications and Community Outreach Director – kethomas@cob.org
- Nicole Oliver, Parks and Recreation Director – noliver@cob.org
- Freeman Anthony, Project Engineer – fanthony@cob.org
