Port of Bellingham finishes dredging the IJ Waterway

The Port of Bellingham has completed dredging the I&J Waterway, a vital step in the ongoing environmental cleanup of Bellingham Bay. Remaining tasks include the installation of new piles and the construction of a new dock, both of which are currently underway. The Port expects to complete the project by February 2026. Residents are advised of potential noise disruptions from 7 a. m.

to 4 p. m. as crews engage in pile driving at the site. The I&J Waterway is one of twelve sites on Bellingham Bay that the state Department of Ecology has targeted for cleanup since 2000, indicating a long-term commitment to environmental restoration. Previous projects in the area have often taken several years to complete, highlighting the complexity of such efforts.

The Port aims to keep the community informed about progress and disruptions during the cleanup process. This project reflects ongoing efforts to enhance local ecosystems and community health.