This project includes redevelopment of the Lehigh Cement pier for public use.
The City recently acquired a portion of the pier through a donation from the Lehigh Hanson/Heidelberg Cement Group.
This project is located adjacent to Little Squalicum Park in north Bellingham. The City owns portions of the park and manages other adjoining properties in the park through a lease from Whatcom County.
Redevelopment of this industrial pier will provide unprecedented access over Bellingham Bay, including up to 1/4 of a mile of public access over the water. More access to our waterfront, both physical and visual, has long been a desire of the people of Bellingham. This one-of-a-kind project is included in the City’s Comprehensive plan and the City Council approved Little Squalicum Master Plan.
This project has been identified as a priority project for public access and enjoyment of the marine shoreline and is included in the Parks and Recreation Open Space Plan and the City of Bellingham Shoreline Master program.
Funding
$1,500,000 in Greenway Levy Funds are allocated for this initial phase of work in the current city budget. Additional funding of $4,500,000 is proposed from Park Impact Fees in the future 2023 budget. Other funding may come from State grants.
Status
Design is underway and construction is expected to start in 2023 or 2024, pending permit approvals.
Reference
Affected Neighborhoods
- Birchwood Neighborhood
- Columbia Neighborhood
- Waterfront District
