Latest News in Bellingham, WA

Barkley Village poised for major development, pending urban village designation

Barkley Village in Bellingham is on the brink of becoming an officially designated urban village, which would allow for significant development over the next two decades. The Talbot Group, the area's primary owner, aims to expand retail, office, and residential spaces substantially, enhancing the community's infrastructure and amenities. This transformation, pending the completion of regulatory processes, promises to reshape the village's landscape and improve connectivity for residents.

Aurielle Buermann Race Director of Ski to Sea and the Mt. Baker Hill Climb

Aurielle Buermann has been appointed as the new race director for the Ski to Sea race, a prestigious annual event in Whatcom County, WA, that spans from Mount Baker to Bellingham Bay. With her extensive background in fitness and event production, Buermann aims to enhance the community-driven experience of the race, which features multiple legs and requires about 500 volunteers. She emphasizes the event's significance to local identity and community engagement, encouraging participation and volunteerism.

How to help the families impacted by the ICE raid at Mt. Baker Roofing Company

Last week, 37 workers from Mt. Baker Roofing Company were arrested in an ICE raid, prompting local organizations to mobilize support for the affected families. The Bellingham Public Schools Foundation and other groups are providing immediate relief, including food and legal assistance. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant communities in the region.

Volunteers building their future tiny homes as two villages prepare to relocate

Volunteers and residents of two tiny home villages in Bellingham, Washington, are actively constructing new homes as they prepare to combine and relocate to a new site on Northwest Avenue. The new village, named North Haven, is set to enhance living conditions for approximately 50 residents who would otherwise face homelessness. This initiative, supported by the City of Bellingham, aims to provide improved facilities and ongoing assistance to the local homeless community.

Polancos 2-run single gives Seattle a 4-3 win over Houston

Jorge Polanco's two-run single in the eighth inning propelled the Seattle Mariners to a 4-3 victory over the Houston Astros on April 7. The game featured a late rally from the Mariners, who overcame a brief deficit after the Astros scored two unearned runs. Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert delivered a strong performance, striking out seven batters and allowing just one run over 5 2/3 innings.

Bellingham housing update Nearly 500 multi-family units under construction this spring

Bellingham is experiencing a surge in apartment construction, with 797 housing units currently underway. However, challenges such as rising interest rates and material costs are prompting developers to request project extensions or delays. The city aims to incentivize new housing to address a critical shortage, with a need for thousands of units in the coming years.

Thousands take to streets in Bellingham to protest Trump policies

Thousands gathered in Bellingham, WA, as part of a nationwide protest against the Trump administration's policies, including cuts to federal jobs and social services. The Hands Off! demonstrations, organized by over 150 advocacy groups, occurred peacefully across all 50 states. No arrests were reported, highlighting the civil nature of the protests.

New Chief of Police in Ferndale to start in July

The City of Ferndale has appointed Sean O’Laughlin as the new police chief, set to take over on July 2. O’Laughlin, currently the deputy chief at Eastern Washington University, brings a diverse background in military service and crisis management. He will succeed Kevin Turner, who resigned to take a similar role in Burlington.

Another stuffed sloth on I-5 near Bellingham taken down by WSDOT crew

A second stuffed sloth that gained attention along I-5 near Bellingham has been removed by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) after a short appearance. The sloth was located in the same area where another stuffed sloth, dubbed “Slothy,” had delighted travelers for over a year. WSDOT emphasized the safety risks associated with placing objects in trees along busy highways.

Unionized PeaceHealth workers hold vote to authorize strike in Bellingham

Unionized healthcare workers at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center in Bellingham are currently voting to authorize a strike, with results expected soon. Key issues include wages, medical benefits, and safety concerns related to short staffing. PeaceHealth has expressed disappointment over the union's decision, arguing their contract offer includes significant wage increases and improvements.