Project Title & Location
Bellingham Waterfront Redevelopment

Project Description
The mainline of the BNSF Railway track currently runs through a sharp curve at a Georgia Pacific plant. Relocates a 3/4-mile section of track to allow the site to be redeveloped for recreational, residential, and commercial uses.

Contractor/Consultant
City of Bellingham/Bellingham, WA

Recent Progress

This project combines $5 million appropriated for construction in the 2007-2009 biennium with $180,000 for Bellingham – GP Area Upgrades. The combined funds will relocate the BNSF main line near Bellingham's central waterfront to allow redevelopment of the former Georgia Pacific site for commercial and residential uses. The city and port have developed a master plan that also includes two new roadway bridges over the relocated main line track. The city has some federal highway funds for the roadway improvements, which are separate from the rail project funds.

During the scoping phase, the city discovered evidence of possible ancient fishing activities. Further, the cost estimates for both the roadway bridges and the rail relocation will likely exceed funds available. The current estimated cost of the track relocation exceeds the available state funds by more than $5 million. The archeological issue and the lack of funds for both aspects of the larger improvement puts this project at risk of not expending the construction funds during the 2007-2009 biennium, as appropriated. WSDOT will continue to work with the city to track the progress of the project and will propose any adjustments prior to the 2008 legislative session.

Design Construction Impacts
Recent site investigations revealed evidence of shell fishing prior to the city of Bellingham's founding.  Further investigations will occur in early 2008 if BNSF approves the relocation route.

Environmental Impacts / Compliance
Environmental issues have not been defined at this time.

Impacts to Traffic
The project may impact freight and passenger operations when construction commences.  Amtrak Cascades passengers may occasionally be moved by motor coach during some work windows.

Planned vs. Actual Expenditures
(Total Project Cost)

Nickel funds included in above costs

2005 Transportation Partnership Account