Public Works Operations Buildings

Developed concept of 5-story Operations Center building by RMC Architects

Public Works Operations Center building design concept by RMC Architects.

Project Overview: EF-0133 and EF-0141

Projects EF-0133 and EF-0141 will fill a need for new permanent buildings at the Public Works Operations site. As the Public Works Department continues to grow, finding space for employees and equipment has become a challenge. The projects will be constructed together by one contractor. The new buildings will be energy efficient and built to LEED standards.

Developed concept of 5-story Operations Center building by RMC Architects

Project EF-0133 is the construction of a five-story Operations Center building at the Public Works Operations site. This project will bring together the Public Works and Parks and Recreation Operations teams in one building, creating efficiencies in physical location, operations yard layout, communication, and asset consolidation. These changes will increase both departments’ ability to continue to deliver excellent service to the Bellingham community. The floors have been designed to support the following:

  • Floor 1: City BTV Studio. The Studio will be televising City meetings and the space has the capacity for over 100 attendees.
  • Floor 2: Locker room and lunchroom for City Operations field crews
  • Floor 3: Public Works Operations group
  • Floor 4: Parks Operations group
  • Floor 5: Public Works Natural Resources Group

Project EF-0141 will demolish the existing vehicle barn on the south side of the site and replace it with a new Operations Barn. The existing building has been in use since Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) moved from the site over 20 years ago. The building is no longer viable to house the essential equipment needed to keep the city operating. The new building will be up to code and provide a safe and secure location for the equipment from all groups.

The new Operations Barn will be an energy-efficient building that will provide:

  • Heated vehicle storage for temperature sensitive equipment such as the Vactor Trucks.
  • Workshop space for all the Public Works utility crews and Parks Operations and Natural Resources field staff.
  • Wood shop space to replace the Parks Barn at Woburn Street facility.
  • Storage space for parts and supplies for all the operations activities.

Informational Open House – January 13, 2021

On January 13, 2021, the City hosted a virtual informational open house to provide information about the project and answer questions. You can view a recording of the meeting.

Status – December 2020

Accomplishments: RMC is in the final process of construction/bid documents.

Next Milestones: SEPA application is submitted and under review. Anticipated bid date late February to March 2021.

Project Details

  • Status – Construction documents currently being finalized.
  • Contract awarded – 
  • Contract amount – 
  • Contractor –
  • Vicinity Map

Contact

​Mike Olinger, Assistant Director of Public Works
Phone: (360) 778-7725
Email: molinger@cob.org​

Participating Departments

Affected Neighborhoods

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