Proposed Mud Bay development takes a step toward construction, activists continue to push back

Bellingham's Planning and Community Development Department issued a Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance for "The Woods at Viewcrest," allowing the construction of 38 single-family lots on 37. 7 acres. Local environmental group Protect Mud Bay Cliffs has raised objections, citing ecological significance and potential for landslides. Activist Larry Horowitz emphasized that the developers' consultants recommended against blasting, citing concerns about bedrock stability. The public comment period remains open until August 8, with PMBC planning to file a formal appeal against the determination.

Planning Director Blake Lyon noted that MDNS determinations are not uncommon but refrained from discussing specific public comments. Community members are urged to submit their concerns, which will be considered in the SEPA review process. LIDAR images submitted by PMBC aim to highlight environmental issues that the developers allegedly overlooked. The project has sparked significant local discourse about balancing development with ecological preservation.