Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The James Street Bridge in Bellingham, WA, is set to close for permanent replacement construction, with the new bridge expected to open by early summer. This closure follows the reopening of the adjacent Meador Avenue Bridge, which has undergone its own construction and improvements. The move aims to address the deterioration of the original bridges built in 1936 and 1962.
Upcoming open house meetings in Bellingham will focus on community input for the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan (PROS Plan) as the city prepares for future growth. Residents are encouraged to participate in discussions about project priorities and public safety services, emphasizing a commitment to inclusivity and support for all community members.
Bellingham City services remain operational despite snowy conditions, with most City buildings closing at 4 p.m. on February 3, 2025, to ensure staff safety. Residents are advised to exercise caution while traveling as snow accumulation varies across the city, with up to 4 inches reported in the northern areas.
Residents near the Custer Sportsmen’s Club in Whatcom County express concerns over ricochet bullets and lead contamination, as they have discovered hundreds of bullets on their properties. The article highlights the residents' frustrations with government officials and law enforcement for not addressing their long-standing safety concerns, shedding light on the potential dangers of gun ranges in residential areas.
The City of Bellingham announces exciting local developments, including the Whatcom Museum's upcoming exhibition featuring masterworks by Renoir, Cézanne, and Matisse. Additionally, the city is prepared for winter weather challenges while encouraging community feedback on the future of Parks and Recreation. Significant updates on the protection of Lake Whatcom through a major land purchase further highlight ongoing environmental efforts.
The steelhead trout fishing season opens on February 1, 2025, on the Skagit and Sauk rivers, allowing anglers to retain up to two hatchery steelhead while wild steelhead must be released. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife forecasts a return of about 7,000 wild steelhead, ensuring a collaborative effort between tribal communities and state agencies for sustainable fishing practices. Anglers are advised to follow specific regulations to protect native fish populations during this season.
KAFE 104.1 successfully raised over $50,000 during its first Airwaves for Animals radiothon held at the Whatcom Humane Society, significantly benefiting local animal welfare efforts. The event highlights community engagement and support for the humane society's mission, showcasing the station's commitment to local issues.
The City of Bellingham is set to acquire 754 acres of forestland in the Lake Whatcom watershed for $3.65 million, marking its largest purchase aimed at protecting the community's drinking water source. This initiative, approved by the City Council, emphasizes environmental sustainability and resilience against climate change while enhancing wildlife habitat and water quality. The acquisition is funded through utility fees specifically designated for watershed protection.
Kendall Elementary School in Mount Baker School District closed temporarily following a car crash that severely damaged a multilingual classroom over the weekend. The driver, who was treated for injuries and arrested on DUI charges, lost control of the vehicle, prompting a swift response from local emergency services. Classes are expected to resume on Tuesday after emergency repairs are completed.
My Bellingham Now is actively seeking community contributors in Northwest Washington to enhance local storytelling and engagement. This initiative aims to empower residents to share their unique perspectives and experiences, fostering a sense of community involvement. Interested individuals can find more details on how to get involved through the publication's website.