Bellingham Secures Federal Funds for Samish Way Upgrades

Streetlight improvements and road resurfacing coming to busy intersection near I-5

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

The city of Bellingham, Washington has accepted federal funding to upgrade the Samish Way and Maple Street intersection, including resurfacing the road and improving corridor lighting. The project was made possible after Samish Way was designated as part of the National Highway System, making it eligible for federal maintenance funds.

Why it matters

The Samish Way corridor is a major thoroughfare in Bellingham, providing access to Interstate 5 and serving as a key route for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Improving the road conditions and lighting will enhance safety and visibility for all users in this busy commercial area.

The details

The Samish Way and Maple Street Overlay and Lighting Project will focus on resurfacing the roadway and upgrading the corridor lighting. Bike facilities will also be added to the intersection. Bellingham Public Works says the federal funding frees up local money for other road projects in the city.

  • Design work on the project will begin soon.
  • Construction is expected to start in the fall of 2027.

The players

Bellingham Public Works

The city department responsible for overseeing infrastructure projects in Bellingham.

Connor Harron

Spokesperson for the Bellingham Public Works department.

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What they’re saying

“The federal dollars free up local money for other road projects.”

— Connor Harron, Bellingham Public Works spokesperson (mybellinghamnow.com)

What’s next

Design work on the project will begin soon, and construction is expected in fall of next year.

The takeaway

This project demonstrates how federal infrastructure funding can be leveraged to improve key transportation corridors in growing cities like Bellingham, benefiting both drivers and pedestrians while freeing up local resources for other community needs.