Have you had the chance to enjoy the new section of trail connecting neighborhoods to Fairhaven Park via 18th Street? That beautiful section of trail was our first phase in improving public access to Fairhaven Park.
After the forest became an official city park, as users of the trail with events like the Bellingham Traverse, we felt very strongly about being good stewards of this place we all enjoy. We are thrilled with the support we’ve received to make this much improved trail a reality.
With the help of donors like you, volunteers, Fairhaven Lions and more community partners, in early 2015 Recreation Northwest was able to start the work of building the new trail. This first phase of improved access was completed in September, 2015. We’re so proud of this first section of trail and are grateful that you share our vision of caring for our green spaces and improving access for everybody in the neighborhood and community.
The first segment has also helped to preserve the natural wetland area of the park as we relocated the first section. Now we’re ready to move further down the path and get started on Phase 2 – a Wetland Boardwalk!
The wetland boardwalk will connect the new trail and the full network of trails throughout the urban forest. By building the boardwalk we’re continuing to improve access and also protecting a very sensitive area. The work on the new boardwalk will include repairing the damage that has been done by the current unsanctioned trail.
With the help of our professional Trail Team* we will be able to protect this ecological gem that boarders the edge of our city. By using this finished project to highlight and amplify the natural landscape we are certain this new boardwalk will become a landmark.
The Great News!
We already have a great start on our fundraising goal.
The cost to complete the Boardwalk is approximately $91,000.
So far, we’ve raised $73,000.
Can you help raise the last $18,000?
These are the ways you can help:
Donate! Make a donation right now! Consider hosting a house party and asking your friends to donate too.
Lend a Hand! Join us for Trail Work. Grab a shovel and get your hands dirty!
Walk the Talk! Attend a Trail Talk. Come out and get a look at the good work that’s been completed so far. Learn more so you can help us spread the word.
Raise a Pint! Drink an Ale 4 Trails.
Add your name to the list of those helping make the boardwalk a reality!
Many thanks to the City of Bellingham, Bellingham Parks and Recreation, the foundations, numerous local businesses and all of our neighbors who are supporting this project.
We look forward to taking a stroll with you across the boardwalk!
*Our Trail Team is a group of hired contractors and volunteers who are helping us find the best way to cross the wetlands and connect Fairhaven Park to the Forest.
As Executive Director of Recreation Northwest, Todd Elsworth promotes outdoor recreation and brings community together to enjoy, preserve and improve the places where we play. His decades of extensive event production, marketing and writing experience propel this passion. You might bump into him and his daughter Violet while they’re biking, hiking, paddling or skiing in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
