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Chuckanut Drive remains closed due to a rockslide that deposited a 30-foot high pile of boulders across the highway. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is assessing the damage but has not provided a timeline for reopening. Local attractions along the road, including Larrabee State Park and Chuckanut Manor, remain accessible.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson signed HB 1494 into law on April 25, expanding the Multifamily Housing Tax Exemption program to increase affordable housing opportunities. The legislation aims to provide tax incentives for developers focusing on multi-unit homes, addressing the state's urgent housing needs.
Whatcom County hosts a weekend filled with cultural events, including the CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival, Bellingham’s April Brews Day, and a Bollywood and Bhangra dance event. The film festival features diverse genres and supports women directors, while the beer festival supports the Max Higbee Center. Live music from local bands will enhance the vibrant atmosphere.
Whatcom County's unemployment rate dropped to 4.3% in March, down from 5.5% in February. Skagit County also reported a decline, with a rate of 4.7%. The statewide unemployment rate remained unchanged compared to February but decreased from the previous year.
Whatcom County received an “A” grade for ground-level ozone pollution but a “D” for particle pollution in the American Lung Association's annual report. The Northwest Clean Air Agency attributed the lower grade to high levels of wildfire smoke over the past three summers. Residents generally experience good air quality despite the mixed ratings.
A suspected feud between coworkers led to an RV fire at VanderPol Building Components in Lynden, WA. Police arrested a 35-year-old man on charges of burglary and arson after witnesses reported him throwing belongings out of the trailer before it ignited. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Whatcom County residents can safely dispose of old medications on National Drug Takeback Day, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office and Ferndale Police will provide drop-off locations without questions asked.
Lynden City Council voted 5-2 to repeal its fluoridation program, initially established in 1959. A motion to place the issue on the November ballot failed by one vote, leaving Mayor Scott Korthuis with the option to veto or accept the decision within 10 days. If the repeal stands, fluoride will be removed from the water supply by late April.
Chuckanut Drive (SR 11) south of Bellingham closed Tuesday due to a 150-foot-long rockslide. The Washington State Patrol warns that the closure may last up to a week or more, urging drivers to find alternate routes.
The University of Washington reports that federal authorities revoked visas for 13 students and 10 recent graduates without prior notice. In contrast, Western Washington University confirmed that no international student visas were canceled. Nationwide, over 1,000 students face similar visa cancellations.