Project Overview: ER015 & ER016
James Street and Meador Avenue are federally classified major collectors serving the surrounding neighborhoods in the middle of Bellingham. The two bridges to be replaced cross over Whatcom Creek and are nearly identical. They were originally built in 1936 and rebuilt in 1962. Both are built on timber piers which have been deteriorating. This project will remove and replace the two bridges with single span bridges with varying cross sections, as well as replace existing water main on the bridges, relocate existing sanitary sewer infrastructure and franchise utility, mitigate stormwater, and other work.
Construction is expected for spring/summer 2024 and every effort will be made to minimize disruption to local businesses and school buses from the Bellingham Public School Bus Yard within the project limits. Stormwater management, meeting redevelopment standards for water quality, and flow attenuation will be required in accordance with current City of Bellingham and Department of Ecology Standards.
Project Status – April 2024
Open House is scheduled at the Bellingham High School Auditorium for May 6th from 6-8pm. This is an opportunity for community members to learn more about the project and the anticipated construction impacts.
Construction is set to begin early May. Construction will begin on the Meador Bridge first all traffic will be detoured over James Street Bridge. Throughout the duration of the project, crews will alternate which bridge is closed and which is detouring traffic.
Contact
Aric Smathers, PE
Phone: (360) 778-7942
Email: arsmathers@cob.org