Oil spill in Padden Creek temporarily closes part of the Interurban Trail

A fuel spill from a generator line break has led to the temporary closure of a section of Bellingham's Interurban Trail. The incident took place on August 3, when a contractor was off-site, resulting in the leakage of several hundred gallons of diesel near the trail's intersection with 12th Street. The Washington State Department of Ecology noted that the spill extended one-third of a mile downstream of Padden Creek. Fortunately, the leak has been contained, and officials confirmed that no fuel reached Bellingham Bay. The city is collaborating with Ecology crews for cleanup efforts, emphasizing the importance of restoring the area quickly.

Local officials have not yet provided a timeline for the trail's reopening. The incident raises concerns about environmental impacts and the safety of recreational areas in the city. Residents are urged to stay updated on the situation as cleanup progresses.