As restaurants, bars continue to struggle with COVID-19, here’s how Bellingham is helping
Restaurants and bars in the downtown and Fairhaven areas may see financial assistance from the city for adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The city announced in a news release that it will award up to $20,000 in grants to eating and drinking establishments that can show how they contribute to the vitality of the downtown or Fairhaven districts. The total amount of money being shared is up to $500,000, which is coming from CARES Act federal funding.
The city is concentrating on those two districts because of the number of establishments in those areas and the limited amount of money that is available, said Senior Planner Darby Cowles. Cowles said if they get more resources, they could consider expanding this grant program to other parts of Bellingham.
Since the pandemic took hold in early March, at least six eating or drinking establishments in Fairhaven and downtown have permanently shut down. Several other establishments, particularly bars and night clubs, are still temporarily closed as Whatcom County remains in Phase 2 of the state’s Safe Start program. The businesses that are open are doing so under reduced capacity, relying heavily on to-go and delivery orders.
“Bellingham’s food and beverage scene is one of the many reasons residents and visitors enjoy spending time downtown and in Fairhaven and why many businesses choose to locate here,” said Bellingham Mayor Seth Fleetwood. “Restaurants, bars, and eateries have experienced significant hardship under COVID-19 restrictions. We honor their commitment and support their creative efforts to adapt to these challenging circumstances.”
Complete applications must be received no later than Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 11:59 p.m. The application can be found at cob.org/services/business. Funding is expected to be disbursed throughout October and November.
