MNAC Update

[RSawy...@aol.com]

Hi Neighbors,

 

Jeff Cook and I attended last night's Mayor's Neighborhood Advisory Committee meeting.  There were two presentations:  Port of Bellingham and Little Squalicum Creek

 

The Port reported on airport status first noting that the $38.5M terminal expansion is now complete.  Traffic at BLI has increased substantially in recent years and the port is now handling about 1.2 million travelers per year, 52% of which are Canadian.  12 cities are now served directly from Bellingham.  Runway/taxiway upgrades are now complete and the facility is operating at about 60% of its total capacity.  There is no further room for runway expansion and it is not called for in the 20 year plan.  Noise continues to an area of concern to the surrounding neighborhoods and the Port has been working with Allegiant as they phase out the older (noisier) MD-80 aircraft in favor of quieter jets.

 

Port representatives also gave a progress report on the waterfront cleanup/redevelopment planning process.  Numerous agencies are working on the requirements for mitigating environmental concerns prior to any development.  Lots of information on this topic on the COB website.

 

The Little Squalicum Creek Estuary project is underway though currently constrained by funding issues.  The plan calls for rerouting the stream back to its original location and restoring the surrounding area as part of the salmon habitat restoration.

 

There are numerous activities in and around town throughout the summer including downtown art walks, National Night Out (August 5th) and, of course, the 4th of July celebration.

 

Mayor Linville asked that we pass on the reminder that FIREWORKS ARE NOW ILLEGAL in the City of Bellingham.  Bellingham Fire and Police Departments are launching an education and enforcement program

immediately.  No fireworks of any kind may be purchased or discharged within city limits.

 

You are invited to follow the link that Iain sent out Monday to join Next Door Neighborhood Forum.  https://nextdoor.com/invite/yxsxenfcssvaqhvuufqr   Several neighborhoods within Bellingham are now participating and reporting a positive impact on communication.