Contact: Ann Grimm
Port of Bellingham
(360) 676-2500
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 17, 2006
SQUALICUM WATERFRONT TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS
Upgrades will include new landscaping and banners
[Bellingham, Wash.] The popular waterfront trail, Squalicum Promenade, which connects walkers, joggers and bicyclists around Bellwether on the Bay and Squalicum Harbor, is getting a fresh, new look just in time for spring.
The Port of Bellingham's most recent public access project at the harbor is the enhancement of the promenade that winds along the edge of the water. Tiger Construction Co., Inc. of Everson is the contractor and the total cost of the project will be $311,735.00.
The project began in January and 1,700 feet of land north of the Harbor Center Building to Gate 8, near Boon Docks, is being improved. A new landscaped section will be created by excavating a five-foot wide shelf and then three-foot diameter rock will be placed along the water’s edge. This new planting bed will be enhanced with a mixture of both native plants and colorful perennials, well suited to the marine environment.
The finishing touch on the project is the replacement of the old promenade lighting system with new light poles that will be equipped with colorful banners. The project is scheduled to be completed by the opening day of boating season, May 6, 2006.
The upgrade project is part of the Port’s “Comprehensive Park and Public Access Plan” which meet strategic goals to continue the development of enhanced public recreational and interpretive interactions of the Port’s unique properties. This is the second of five phases where sections of the promenade will be upgraded. Last year, improvements were completed between Bellwether and the Squalicum Harbor boat launch.
The Port of Bellingham operates Whatcom County’s major transportation terminals including the Bellingham Airport, Fairhaven Transportation Station and the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. The Port also serves about 2,000 moorage customers in its Blaine and Squalicum Harbors.
In addition, about 300 businesses operate on Port properties, which are managed by the Port Real Estate Division. The Port of Bellingham is a countywide independent special purpose government.
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