In the heart of Bellingham, construction has officially begun on a brand new storage facility. This facility is set to rise in the wedge of land between Woburn Street and Old Woburn Street, adjacent to Bayview Cemetery. The site, which was once the home of Parks & Recreation Operations, holds a rich history with an old horse barn and caretaker house.

Streamlining Operations for Greater Efficiency

Over the past 15 years, the city has been on a mission to streamline its parks and public works operations. By sharing resources between the two departments, they aim to enhance overall efficiency. The parks department has now relocated to the newly renovated Pacific Street Operations Center, leaving the Woburn Street site free to serve as seasonal equipment and bulk materials storage. This move also provides a larger and more functional area for the parks' nursery program.

During a city council meeting in May, then-public works director Eric Johnston explained the significance of this transition. It showcases the city's commitment to optimizing its operations and ensuring the best use of available resources.

The relocation and repurposing of the Woburn Street site are part of a larger effort to create a more seamless and integrated system for the city's parks and public works departments.

Contract Award and Construction Progress

In May, Faber Construction was awarded a $6.9 million contract to improve the property. The funding for this project comes from various sources, including the city's street fund, transportation fund, and real estate excise tax. This summer, the contractor has been working diligently, removing vegetation and buildings, grading the site, and installing stormwater facilities. Now, the construction of the new storage buildings has officially kicked off.

The progress made so far is a testament to the city's dedication to this project and its commitment to providing essential infrastructure. The new storage facilities will not only enhance storage capabilities but also contribute to the overall functionality and aesthetics of the area.

With the construction in full swing, the city is moving closer to achieving its goals of improving storage solutions and optimizing operations.

Pedestrian Improvements and Public Art

The project includes significant pedestrian improvements on both flanks of the facility. On the east side of Old Woburn, new sidewalks will be installed, providing a safer and more accessible route for pedestrians. On the west side, improved sidewalk ramps will ensure smooth access for all. An improved pedestrian crossing at Wildflower Way and a pedestrian-triggered flashing light crossing on Woburn will further enhance safety and convenience.

One exciting aspect of the project is its eligibility for Bellingham's 1% for the Arts. This initiative allows 1% of eligible costs of capital improvement projects exceeding $2 million to go towards public art. While the artwork for the Woburn project has not been chosen yet, it is likely to adorn one of the large blank walls facing the adjacent streets, adding a touch of culture and beauty to the area.

The pedestrian improvements and the potential for public art make this project not only functional but also a valuable addition to the city's urban landscape.

Anticipated Completion and Updates

The city anticipates that the construction will wrap up by March 2025. This timeline allows for thorough construction and ensures that the new storage facility meets all the necessary standards and requirements. To stay informed about the progress, updates are available at cob.org/project/woburn-site.

Residents and stakeholders can keep track of the construction milestones and look forward to the completion of this important project. The new storage facility will play a crucial role in supporting the city's operations and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

As the construction continues, the city is moving forward with confidence, knowing that this facility will bring numerous benefits to the community.

Julia Tellman writes about civic issues and anything else that happens to cross her desk; contact her at juliatellman@cascadiadaily.com.

The new Sand Hill Elementary School building is set to be completed by mid-August 2025. This presents a significant challenge for Marshall County Schools officials as they navigate the timeline for removing the modular temporary classroom facility. Superintendent Shelby Haines emphasizes the need for "plenty of time" to ensure a smooth transition. Facilities Director Michael Price notes that the building's finishes are progressing well and that the school is starting to take shape. However, the main challenge lies in opening the new school on time while removing the modular, which requires careful coordination and planning.

Project Challenges and Solutions

The new school building's deadline for completion is mid-August 2025. The project schedule includes removing the modular from the site at the end of the current school year. Price points out that the main challenge will be opening the school on time while removing the modular. The modular consists of eight separate trailers that need to be removed approximately two-and-a-half to three months before the first day of the next school year. This allows sufficient time for the contractor to build the sewage plant infrastructure. Price also discusses the "plan A and B" for removing the modular and the potential for delays. He emphasizes the importance of keeping the BOE members informed about the developments.The sewage plant must be completed before school begins as it is a requirement for the building to operate. Price notes that getting the modular out will be more difficult than getting it in due to the need to unload the furnishings. At a previous BOE meeting, it was determined that multiple classrooms would be completed in the new school building by May, allowing for the transfer of items from the modular. Price also explores potential locations for moving the modular, with John Marshall High School being a possibility.Haines adds that they have been meeting with the Sand Hill community and school leadership to gather feedback and explore options for closing out the last few weeks of school. They have already had one meeting and will meet again in December to finalize the plans.The team is aware of the challenges ahead but is committed to ensuring a successful transition. They believe they are "on top" of the project's timeline and are working hard to make it happen.