BELLINGHAM, Wash. A local nonprofit is expanding access to aquatic recreation on Bellingham Bay, according to My Bellingham Now, with construction now underway on a new kayak dock and pocket beach.
The Port of Bellingham and the Community Boating Center announced Friday, Oct. 23 that work has begun on the 140-foot floating dock, located near the boating center in Fairhaven, which will serve as an accessible hand-launch facility for the public.
Community Boating Center Executive Director Bryan Rust said in a statement that the new dock was designed to prioritize inclusion and accessibility for paddlers and sailors with disabilities.
A $500,000 grant from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office helped fund the dock, which is expected to be ready for use in early 2027.
My Bellingham Now previously reported on the boating center's efforts to provide accessibility for people with mobility challenges, including the construction of wheelchair lifts for its accessible sailing vessels.