The Bellingham Scoop

Wednesday, February 25, 2026 | Your neighbor's take on what's happening in Bellingham

February 25, 2026

Sunset Pond Loop Trail Finally Opens Friday — 30 Years in the Making

Here's a feel-good one to kick off your Wednesday. After nearly four years of design, permitting, and construction, the Sunset Pond Loop Trail is officially opening to the public this Friday, February 27, at 3 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and community stroll around the pond.

What makes this extra meaningful: the trail was first imagined in the City's 1990 Greenways levy. Thirty-six years later, it's finally real. The new loop features scenic boardwalks over wetlands and connects North Bellingham to Sunset Square, Barkley Village, and Bellingham Bay.

"We've been working toward this for a long time, and it was worth every bit of it," said Parks and Recreation Director Nicole Oliver. "Sunset Pond is a genuine nature escape right in the heart of North Bellingham."

If you're free Friday afternoon, this one is worth showing up for.

Civic

Whatcom County Wants Your Input on the 20-Year Comprehensive Plan

Big picture stuff from the county this week. The Whatcom County Council has begun its final review of the draft Comprehensive Plan and is asking the community to weigh in before adoption.

Washington State law requires the county to update its Comprehensive Plan every ten years, covering growth management, land use, urban growth areas, and development regulations for unincorporated areas over the next 20 years. The council plans to work through individual chapters over the coming months, with a target adoption date in mid-May.

If you care about where Whatcom County is headed for the next two decades, this is your window to say so. Watch the county's website for public comment opportunities as chapter reviews are scheduled.

Status Check

EOC at Level 3 (Monitoring) — Mostly Quiet This Morning

Per the Tuesday Emergency Management Daily Briefing, Whatcom County's Emergency Operations Center remains at Level 3 (Monitoring) with no active incidents reported. Rain is expected to move in later today and continue through the rest of the week.

If you spot any storm-related damage, the county asks that you report it to Whatcom County Division of Emergency Management. The county also reminds residents to sign up for emergency alerts if you haven't already.

School + Family Update

What's on the BSD Radar This Week

A few reminders worth putting on the fridge if you've got kids in Bellingham Public Schools.

BSD Transfer Request Deadline: March 1

Families interested in transferring to a different Bellingham School District school for the 2026-27 year have until Sunday, March 1 to submit a request. Submit your request on the BSD website before the window closes.

Kindergarten Registration Is Open for Fall 2026

If you have a little one starting school this coming fall, kindergarten registration is open now through BSD. Do not wait on this one.

Promise Award Nominations Still Open

Know someone doing something great in our schools? Nominations for the 2026 BSD Annual Promise Awards are still being accepted. It takes five minutes and means a lot to the people who receive it.

Civic

Whatcom County Council Hiring a Paid Spring Intern

Know a college student interested in local government? The Whatcom County Council is looking for a part-time, paid intern for spring 2026, working 10 to 15 hours per week over 10 or more weeks. Target start date is April 13.

Interns get hands-on experience working on projects for councilmembers, researching issues like affordable housing, climate policy, and land use zoning, and drafting real memos and resolutions. Good experience, meaningful work. Check the county website for application details.

The Upcoming Week

Wed 2/25

Allied Arts of Whatcom County Members Show at 1213 Cornwall Ave., 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Great local art through Saturday.

Live Music at Stones Throw Brewery on Larrabee Ave., 6 to 8 p.m. Free, casual, and cozy.

Thu 2/26

BSD transfer request window closes Sunday, March 1 — last few days to submit if you're considering a school change for fall.

Whatcom County Council continues its Comprehensive Plan chapter reviews this week — check the county site for the agenda.

Fri 2/27

Sunset Pond Loop Trail Ribbon-Cutting, 3 p.m. — community stroll around the new trail to follow. Free and family-friendly.

Live Music at Stones Throw Brewery again Friday evening, 6 to 8 p.m.

Sat 2/28

Allied Arts Members Show final day, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Allied Arts Gallery — catch it before it closes.

Perfect weekend morning to walk the newly opened Sunset Pond Loop Trail if the weather cooperates.

Sun 3/1

BSD transfer requests due today — last day of the window, do not miss it.

BSD Promise Award nominations still open — a good Sunday project.

Mon 3/2

Whatcom County Council regular meeting — check the agenda for Comprehensive Plan review updates and public comment opportunities.

Bellingham Farmers Market calendar — check the site for spring market dates if you're ready for it.

Sponsored

Spring Is Coming. Your Home Deserves a Fresh Start.

With a brand-new trail opening Friday and the rain finally easing up (eventually), spring is practically knocking on the door. Which means it's the perfect time to reset your home before the season really gets going.

Cascade Home Cleaning is offering 40% off your first deep clean for new recurring clients who book by end of the week. Their team is local, thorough, and genuinely great at what they do. Whether you're clearing out the winter fog or just finally checking something off the list, they've got you covered.

Book by Sunday, March 1 to lock in the discount. → cascadehomecleaning.com

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