Pier opens to the public

Little Squalicum Pier is now open to the public, providing a new recreational space for Bellingham residents and visitors alike. The official celebration is set for April 26, 2025, at 3 p. m. , featuring a procession to the pier and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Parks and Recreation Director Nicole Oliver highlighted the pier's role in enhancing community access to Bellingham Bay, allowing everyone to experience the waterfront from a fresh perspective.

At 1,248 feet, it stands as the longest public pier in Washington state and is designed to accommodate safe public use, with improvements funded by a $1. 6 million Greenways Levy investment. The pier has a rich history dating back to 1912, previously serving as a transport route for cement products until operations ceased in 1987. The City of Bellingham has worked diligently to transform the area from its industrial past into a vibrant space for recreation and wildlife. In addition, the pier's potential eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places underscores its significance.

Community input played a vital role in naming the pier, which reflects the collective identity and pride of Bellingham residents.