Bellingham Scoop: I-5 Gridlock Relief, Ferndale Closures, and 20 Years of Family Film Magic

Happy Wednesday, Bellingham. It is March 25 and there is a lot going on with roads and traffic right now. Grab your coffee and let's get into it.

City Adjusts Signal Timing as I-5 Detours Push 50,000 Extra Vehicles Daily

The northbound I-5 closure near the North Lake Samish exit (MP 246) is still in effect with no reopening timeline from WSDOT. That means local streets continue to absorb an estimated 50,000 extra vehicles every day.

The City of Bellingham has adjusted signal timing at key intersections in Fairhaven, along Samish Way, and through the Yew/Woburn corridor. Radar-equipped speed trailers have also been deployed along Samish Way.

The city's best detour guidance for passenger vehicles: SR 9, SR 11 (Chuckanut Drive), and Samish Way are all viable options. However, SR 11 and local roads are NOT suitable for freight or semi-trucks. Large vehicles should use SR 9 via the Cook Road exit.

WSDOT crews were on site over the weekend breaking up and hauling away rocks, trees, and debris, but the slope must be stabilized first before the lane can safely reopen. Stay tuned to WSDOT for the latest status.

Siddle Street Closed in Ferndale Through March 30

Heads up if you travel through Ferndale: Siddle Street near the intersection with Legoe Avenue will be closed to through traffic from today through Monday, March 30. The closure is in effect from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day.

Detour signs will direct drivers via Vista Drive and Washington Street. Residents near the work zone will still have access to their homes. The closure is for paving work tied to a private development project and is weather dependent.

Bellingham Border Patrol Assists in Arrest of Laos Citizen Near Puyallup

Bellingham Border Patrol agents assisted ERO Seattle on March 17 in arresting Thongden Sounthone, a Laos citizen, near Puyallup. According to US Border Patrol Blaine Sector, Sounthone had prior arrests for larceny, reckless endangerment, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He is currently being processed for removal proceedings.

Two Film Festivals This Spring at Pickford Film Center

Bellingham's film scene is heating up this spring. Two major festivals are coming to Pickford Film Center, and both are celebrating milestone anniversaries.

First up: the Bellingham Children's Film Festival returns this Saturday and Sunday, March 28 and 29, celebrating its 20th year. If you've got kids who love movies, this weekend is for them.

Then in late April, the CASCADIA International Women's Film Festival runs April 30 through May 3, marking its 10th year. Both festivals will screen at Pickford's downtown locations. Mark those calendars now.

Family Weekend Ahead: Movies, Markets, and Things to Do with Kids

With the Bellingham Children's Film Festival kicking off Saturday at Pickford Film Center, this weekend shapes up nicely for families. The festival celebrates 20 years of bringing quality children's cinema to Bellingham and is a beloved community tradition. Check Pickford Film Center's website for showtimes and tickets as the weekend approaches.

The Bellingham Farmers Market also continues its spring season on Saturdays at the Depot Market Square. It's a great outing before catching a film.

If you have school-age kids and are planning ahead: Bellingham Public Schools has posted key dates for the 2027-28 school year on the BSD website. Worth a bookmark.

The Upcoming Week

Spring Clean Without the Stress (limited time offer)

With all the detour traffic and rainy-day mud tracked through the door this week, your floors and surfaces have probably earned a deep clean. Cascade Home Cleaning is offering 40% off your first deep clean when you sign up as a new recurring client. Book by the end of the week to lock in the discount.

Locally owned. Professionally done. Your home will thank you. Book at cascadehomecleaning.com.