Urban Village Planning

The City of Bellingham is fulfilling the Comprehensive Plan goal of master-planning urban villages. Master planning for an urban village provides an opportunity for residential and commercial property owners, business owners, residents, and other community organizations and stakeholders to:

Create a redevelopment vision that is unique to the area;
Encourage a vibrant mix of residential and commercial uses;
Promote the economic health of the area;
Encourage a safe, convenient and attractive pedestrian experience, and
Provide a level of predictability for redevelopment
Plan for minimizing the effects of future development on the character and value of adjacent single and multi-family residential areas.

Bellingham's Urban Village Plans

Old Town
The Subarea Plan, as well as the related development regulations were adopted in 2008.

Samish Way
The Subarea Plan, as well as the zoning and development regulations were adopted in November, 2009.

Fountain District
The Subarea Plan, as well as the related development regulations were adopted in October, 2011.

Fairhaven Neighborhood and Urban Village - project currently underway

Urban Village Design Standards and Guidelines

What is an Urban Village? - PowerPoint (PDF)