Good morning, this is your Bellingham Local Frequency for Friday, May 2nd, 2025.
Let’s kick things off with a heads-up for anyone heading out on the roads today. Temporary lane closures on I-5 through Bellingham are planned for much of the day, so drivers should expect delays from the early morning through 2 pm. This is part of ongoing work including fish passage projects just south of town, which will keep traffic slow on I-5 throughout the week. If Slater Road is part of your commute, be aware there’s a bridge inspection causing lane closures from 8 am to 1 pm, so plan a little extra time for your trip. And in case you missed it, Whatcom County’s Small Area Paving Program is underway again this week, meaning more single-lane closures across the area as crews refresh road stripes and update shoulder rock. Spring road work is in full swing to keep us all moving safely.
A quick note for gardeners and anyone with sensitive outdoor plants: there’s a frost advisory for Whatcom County lowlands. Be sure to cover up any tender greenery, as overnight temperatures could do some damage.
Shifting to public safety, authorities are investigating a data breach at Northwest Radiologists, the Bellingham-based imaging provider affiliated with Mount Baker Imaging and Peace Health. A recent lawsuit alleges thousands of patients’ private information may have been compromised in a January cyber incident. Though there is no evidence of data misuse so far, officials urge patients to stay vigilant.
Local law enforcement had a busy week. A 19-year-old motorcyclist wanted for eluding officers was tracked down after posting about it on social media and is now in custody. Meanwhile, a minor was charged with DUI after their car ended up off I-5 on Pacific Highway, thankfully without major injuries. Over on Grandview Road, a Whatcom Sheriff’s deputy was involved in a crash while responding to an incident—no word yet on injuries, but it’s a reminder to always give emergency vehicles extra space.
For folks on Lummi Island, big changes start tomorrow as the Whatcom Chief ferry heads in for its annual dry dock. This means more restrictions, including a ban on large outdoor burn piles due to high fire danger and the postponement of written permits until the ferry’s return.
Looking ahead, you can get involved in local science by joining the North Sound Stewards Program. Volunteers are needed to help track marine life using the iNaturalist app, a great chance to contribute to conservation and connect with neighbors who love the outdoors. And if you want to stay up to date on government happenings, Whatcom County Council has launched a newsletter covering everything from elections to ongoing behavioral health initiatives.
That’s what’s happening around Bellingham today—busy roads, chilly nights, and plenty of chances to get involved with your community. This has been Bellingham Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.