Bellingham obtains ‘incredible asset’ to develop as ‘unprecedented waterfront experience’
Part of an abandoned pier on the north side of Bellingham’s industrial waterfront is now in city hands with plans to develop it as an addition to Little Squalicum Park.
Lehigh Northwest Cement Co. donated the first 1,200 feet of its unused pier, and the City Council unanimously accepted the offer Monday night, Nov. 23.
“If this project is anywhere near as successful as Taylor Dock, it’s going to be remarkable,” Councilman Michael Lilliquist said during the meeting.
Lehigh is retaining the outer 600 feet of the pier and a supply pipeline, with plans to demolish both at its own expense, and Lehigh will be responsible for any toxic cleanup that arises, said Nicole Oliver, director of the Parks and Recreation Department.
Surrounding tidelands are managed by the Department of Natural Resources, Oliver said.
Plans are to develop the 14-foot-wide pier into a 1,200-foot walking and biking path using $4.5 million in Greenways levy fund, park impact fees and grants.
It will be accessible to people with disabilities.
Construction is expected to start on 2023, with completion in 2024.
“This incredible asset will provide our community with an unprecedented waterfront experience from the north end of Bellingham Bay, including spectacular views of the bay, the city and Mount Baker,” Mayor Seth Fleetwood said in a statement.
Little Squalicum Park is an off-leash dog park that stretches from West Illinois Street near Bellingham Technical College to Little Squalicum Beach.
