Bellingham Phase 2 could mean more sidewalk sales, dining outside on closed streets
As Bellingham businesses anxiously await for Phase 2 of the reopening process, owners and the city are working on ways to make shopping and dining enjoyable in a socially distant format.
Sidewalk sales, more outdoor seating and possibly some street closures to promote pedestrian traffic are in the discussion stages. Potential street closures include part of 10th Street in Fairhaven between the South Bay trailhead and Harris Avenue. The city is also talking to business owners on parts of Railroad Avenue in downtown to gauge interest, said Darby Cowles, senior planner for Bellingham.
On Monday, June 1, Whatcom County can apply for a variance to get to Phase 2 of Gov. Jay Inslee’s Safe Start plan, which would allow some restaurant dining and customers into stores currently considered nonessential amid the coronavirus pandemic.
With 36 confirmed COVID-19 cases reported by the health department since May 16 and a population of more than 225,000, Whatcom County is averaging 16 reported cases per 100,000 people over the past 14 days. That might fit the new criteria Inslee laid out Friday, May 29.
In Fairhaven, closing that portion of 10th Street would allow several restaurants to set up outdoor seating, possibly on the street, which would help with social distancing, said Scott Ward, executive director of the Historic Fairhaven Association and co-owner of the Current and Furbish gift store.
Many business owners on that street are interested in the idea, but it’s still under discussion to address concerns such as parking, Ward said in a phone interview with The Bellingham Herald.
Cowles said the city is accepting proposals for street closures for pedestrian use in other parts of Bellingham as well. Proposals would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for circulation and transportation impacts, the level of support from abutting businesses, and whether it reinforces or implements other city goals such as bicycle and pedestrian connections, she said.
As for using the sidewalk for outdoor seating and product sales, Cowles said the city is encouraging businesses to do so as long as they follow the guidelines the city put together last year.
Ward said many Fairhaven merchants are interested in introducing sidewalk sales in Phase 2. The district, already known for its annual sidewalk sales, could do more of that as well as art walks to replace the events that involve large group gatherings that won’t be allowed during the pandemic.
Ward said Fairhaven merchants are doing their best to survive during this pandemic. He said the past few months have been a roller coaster ride; when the restrictions first kicked in many of the merchants felt alone, but then started communicating with other merchants, which led to the Fairhaven videos that many have seen on social media.
Customers have also been more supportive as more use curbside pickup services.
“Now there is more hope and optimism around here,” Ward said, adding that he expects nearly all the merchants to make it to Phase 2.
Other tidbits
▪ The Habitat Store will reopen its doors on Monday, June 1, according to a Facebook post. The store will be open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at 1825 Cornwall Ave. The store falls under the essential business category.
A variety of preventive measures will be in place, including only allowing 20 customers in the store at one time and that staff will be wearing masks and gloves.
▪ Black Drop Coffeehouse announced on Facebook that it is reopening for curbside service on Monday, June 8.
The downtown Bellingham coffee shop will have two separate tables outside, one for ordering, one for pickup. It’ll be cashless ordering, with plans to also have an online system in place.
▪ K-Pop Chicken & Beer, which recently opened in the former Bob’s Burgers & Brew space in downtown Bellingham, is offering to-go and delivery. Menu items include Korean Fried Chicken, burgers and corn dogs. Check online for details or call 360-306-8327.
