How to calculate Lummi Island ferry fares for motor homes and similar recreational vehicles

Summertime means travel time, and we want to take a moment to remind our ferry riders of the fare policy for buses, recreational vehicles, travel trailers, and motorhomes.

• If you drive a recreational vehicle, bus, or motorhome, your vehicle’s far...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale August 11

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, August 11, at the ferry office, located at the island-side ferry terminal. All types of ferry punch cards will be sold, including those for current...

The Lummi Island Ferry is Back in Service

The ferry is back in service after repairs to its steering system. Thank you for your patience during these necessary repairs!

West Shore Drive Sinkhole Repairs Tentatively Scheduled for August

Public Works is making plans to repair the West Shore Drive sinkhole and hopes to have a contractor hired soon. Repairs are tentatively scheduled for mid to late August. Public Works will send out more construction information when it is available.

Chip Seal Road Work Scheduled for August 2-5

Whatcom County has scheduled the following roads for chip sealing from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. starting Monday August 2, and continuing through Thursday, August 5.

• Agate Bay Ln
• Dewey Rd 
• E Bakerview Rd 
• Eberly Rd
• Harmony Rd 
• Henderson ...

Weidkamp Rd closed between W. Badger and Loomis Trail roads due to sinkhole

Road closed just south of 8755 Weidkamp Rd, between W. Badger and Loomis Trail, due to a sinkhole. Call Maintenance & Operations with questions at 360-778-6400.

Marine Drive Reconstruction Scheduled to Start in September

The project's construction contract has been awarded to Strider Construction; work is expected to start in September and continue through March 2022. Utility relocation continues for about six more weeks.

New Noxious Weed Found in Whatcom County

Noxious Weed Alert! There’s a new invasive weed in Whatcom County called Goatsrue (Galega officinalis). We need your help finding this plant. 

Goatsrue is officially listed on the County, State and Federal Noxious Weed Lists and...

Expect Delays Starting Aug. 2 on Birch Bay-Lynden Road for Paving Project

Paving on Birch Bay-Lynden Road between Enterprise and Rathbone roads starts Aug. 2. Drivers should expect long delays and avoid the area if possible.

The preliminary schedule for paving Birch Bay-Lynden Road is below: 

• Week 1 Aug. 2-6: Clear veget...

Central Road East of Lunde Rd - Motorcycles use caution

There is a steel plate over the roadway on Central Road, East of Lunde Road. Motorcycles should use caution. 

Clipper Road, South of Strand Road - Motorcycles use Caution

There is a steel plate over the roadway at 3167 Clipper Road, South of Strand Road. Motorcycles should use caution. 

Deer Trail at Cherry Lane - Be Prepared to Stop

Deer Trail at Cherry Lane is reduced to a single lane. Be prepared to stop.

Get to Know the Next Lummi Island Ferry Vessel at Aug. 7 Informational Booth

Lummi Island residents are invited to learn about the design and features of a new ferry vessel with Whatcom County Public Works. The county will have an informational booth at the Aug. 7 Lummi Island Saturday Market. In addition to informational displays...

Innis Creek Rd - Water / Debris Over Roadway

There is water/debris over the roadway on Innis Creed Rd, South of Doren Road.

Marshall Hill Road reduced to single lane due to landslide

Marshall Hill Road has been reduced to single-lane traffic West of 5407 Marshall Hill Road, due to a landslide. Stop signs have been initiated. Drivers are asked to use caution. 

West Shore Drive on Lummi Island closed due to sinkhole

West Shore Drive on Lummi Island has been closed to all traffic at the 2300 block due to a large sinkhole. The road will remain closed until further notice. The issue is largely below the pavement, and the majority of the problem can't be seen from the su...

The Whatcom Chief is Back in Service

The ferry is back in service after repairs were made to the island-side dock hydraulics. Thanks everyone for your patience during this outage!

July 21 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 21, for repairs to the Lummi Island dock and apron. 

• The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of service Wednesday, July 21, from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m...

August 4 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 4, for inspection and maintenance of the ferry terminal facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. 

• The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of s...

Three Month Closure of E. Hemmi Road Starts July 14

E. Hemmi Road will close between Hannegan Road and Noon Road starting on Wednesday, July 14. The closure will remain in place through September to raise a portion of roadway and replace a culvert on Tenmile Creek. Detour routes and signage will be in plac...

Three Month Closure of Truck Road Starts on July 12

Truck Road will close between Deal Road and Mosquito Lake Road on July 12 for a fish passage culvert replacement project. The closure will remain in place through September.

• Visit the project website for additional information and a detour map. 

Whatcom County Public Works Reopening Guidance for Citizens and Customers

Public Works offices have reopend to the public by appointment only. Please arrange appointments directly with the employee or division you are working with. If you do not have a contact person, you can call our main number for assistance at 360-778-6200....

Public Works Reopening Guidance for Lummi Island Residents

Public Works offices will reopen to the public by appointment only on Wednesday, June 30, when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted state wide. Reopening our public buildings will be done gradually, and this is the first step in that process. We thank you in ...

Ferry Tide-Related Weight Restrictions in July, August, and September

Tide-related weight restrictions for ferry sailings in July, August, and September. There are no tide-related weight restrictions in October, November, or December 2021.

Protect Vulnerable Birch Bay 'Berm' Plantings this July 4

BELLINGHAM, WA – The newly completed Birch Bay “Berm” includes over 110,000 young native plants that will restore shoreline habitat, help protect the beach from erosion during winter storms, and reduce project costs. Anyone c...

Marine Drive Utility Work Continues, Road Construction will Likely Start in Early August

Ongoing utility relocation work and periodic single-lane road closures will continue through June and July. Road construction is currently out to bid. Construction is likely to begin in early August.

Neighbors Team Up with Whatcom County, State Agencies, to Clean Styrofoam Waste from Lake Samish

Recently, Lake Samish residents spent a rainy week out on the water gathering litter – but not the traditional plastic bottles, aluminum cars, or food packaging. These neighbors were picking up Styrofoam. The Styrofoam blocks were used as dock f...

Keep Safe. Watch Your Wake.

Be safe when you’re out on the lakes. Boating speed rules and no wake zones on Lake Whatcom and Lake Samish keep swimmers and boaters safe and protect the shoreline from erosion. Here's a summary of what you need to know:

Slow t...

Save the Dates: Whatcom Chief Dry Dock Outage Sept. 11-Oct. 4

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEJune 3, 2021

Contact: Ferry DivisionPhone: 360-778-6200Email: Ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us

The Whatcom Chief’s 2021 dry dock outage will be Sept. 11-Oct. 4. Additional details about the 2021 dry dock, including any applicable COVID-19 protoco...

Ferry Tide-Related Weight Restrictions in June

The Whatcom Chief can't carry trucks over 40,000 GVW during tides below zero. View June tide restricted dates and times at: https://bit.ly/2Tp5biv

Sinkhole Closes West Shore Drive on Lummi Island

West Shore Drive on Lummi Island is closed to all traffic at the 2300 block due to a large sinkhole. The road will remain closed until further notice. The issue is largely below the pavement, and the majority of the problem can't be seen from the...

Join Us for a Fun Volunteer Celebration and Beach Cleanup in Birch Bay with Giveaways

Low tides, free parking, guided naturalist beach walks, and free popsicles are just a few of the exciting things happening at Birch Bay State Park for the “Watershed Watchers: Day at the Beach” event from noon to 3pm on Saturday, June ...

June 2 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, June 2, for inspection and maintenance of the ferry terminal facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. 

• The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of ser...

May 26 Planned Service Outage for the Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 11:10 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 26, for the 2021 dry dock shipyard pre-bid meeting onboard the boat.

• The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of service from 11:10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Wednesday, M...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale July 14

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14, at the ferry office, located at the island-side ferry terminal. All types of ferry punch cards will be sold, including those for current n...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale June 9

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, June 9, at the ferry office, located at the island-side ferry terminal. All types of ferry punch cards will be sold, including those for current ne...

Remember: Ferry Trips Increase by $1 Starting on May 17; Here are Some Important Upcoming Dates

With ferry trips increasing by $1 starting on Monday, May 17, Whatcom County Public Works has some important dates and key pieces of information to remember:

• The last on-island punch card sale before the $1 price increase is Wednesday, May 12. 
• All...

Ferry Tide-Related Weight Restrictions in May

The Whatcom Chief can't carry trucks over 40,000 GVW during tides below zero. View May's tide restricted dates and times at: https://bit.ly/2Pzz51P

Updated Fare Sheet Added to Whatcom Chief's Website

The Lummi Island Ferry's fare sheet has been updated with a new chart showing both the current costs and the new costs that will start on May 17, 2021.

Lummi Island Ferry $1 Fare Surcharge Begins May 17

A $1 surcharge on most ferry trips on the Whatcom Chief will begin on Monday, May 17. Student, needs-based, and qualified senior/disabled fares are exempt. All ferry punch cards purchased before May 17 will be honored at face value, Per Whatcom County Cod...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale May 12

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 14, 2021

Contact: Chantelle HilsingerPhone: 360-778-6200Email: ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, May 12, at the ferry office, located...

Public Works Department Prepares for 2021 Road Shoulder Herbicide Program

The 2021 Whatcom County Road Shoulder Herbicide Program will begin soon. Approximately 250 miles of roads are normally scheduled for seasonal treatment. Lawns and yard areas may have a minimum 12” wide strip treated to aid in drainage and minimize pavemen...

April 14 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 14, for inspection and maintenance of the ferry terminal facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. 

• The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of s...

Whatcom County Council Passes Ferry Fare Surcharge Ordinance

On Tuesday, March 23, the Whatcom County Council unanimously passed, with the support of the Lummi Island Ferry Advisory Committee, a $1 surcharge on most ferry trips. The surcharge will begin later in 2021. No start date has been set.

Needs-based senior/d...

Birch Bay Drive Construction Largely Complete

Crews will put up signage, monitor plantings, and demobilize equipment. Thank you for your patience during this project! Please save the date of Saturday, Aug. 21, for a community celebration with the Birch Bay Chamber - follow the Chamber for details!

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale April 7

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 15, 2021

Contact: Chantelle HilsingerPhone: 360-778-6200Email: ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, April 7, at the ferry office, locate...

Birch Bay Drive Construction Update for March 15-19

Drivers can expect minimal single lane closures from 7am-5pm, Monday-Thursday. Crews will install benches, finish pedestrian path work, and other projects. We want to remind everyone to please avoid damaging the plantings. They are expensive to replace.

Birch Bay Drive Update for March 8-12

Crews will work 7am-5pm daily on a variety of tasks. Monday and Tuesday drivers should expect delays with lane closures for paving. Pedestrians, please stay off the new asphalt while it sets! Other work next week should have minimal impacts on traffic.

Utility Relocation Work Starts Mid-March on Marine Drive

Starting in mid-March, users of Marine Drive can expect periodic single-lane closures and road shoulder work as crews relocate utility poles, water meters, buried natural gas and communication lines, etc. for the upcoming roadway widening project.

March 10 Repair Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 3, 2021

Contact: Rich Hudson, Ferry Senior MasterPhone: 360-778-6200Email: Ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 10, for repairs of the Lummi Island ...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale March 10

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 1, 2021

Contact: Chantelle HilsingerPhone: 360-778-6200Email: ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, March 10, at the ferry office, locate...

Birch Bay Drive Update for March 1-5

Drivers should expect single-lane closures and periodic delays as crews cut asphalt, pave, add plantings, and install limestone trail on the west side of Birch Bay Drive from Cottonwood to Beach Way.

Birch Bay Drive Construction Update for the Week of Feb. 22

Drivers can expect single-lane closures next week as crews work from 7am-5pm Monday-Friday on stormwater structures, sidewalk installation, and plantings on the berm.

Birch Bay Drive Update for Feb. 15-19

Drivers can expect single-lane closures as contractors install sidewalk, dig swales, and install plantings. Please remember to stay away from both workers and construction areas for your safety!

Birch Bay Drive Update for Feb. 8-12

Drivers can expect infrequent single-lane closures from 8am-5pm Monday-Friday. We ask pedestrians to give workers plenty of space, especially around the trail system! Workers will install plantings, install limestone on the trail, and pour sidewalks.

February 24 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEFebruary 1, 2021

Contact: Rich Hudson, Ferry Senior MasterPhone: 360-778-6200Email: Ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, February 24, for inspection and mainten...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale February 10

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEFebruary 1, 2021

Contact: Chantelle HilsingerPhone: 360-778-6200Email: ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, February 10, at the ferry office, ...

Birch Bay Drive Construction Update for the Week of Feb. 1

Drivers should expect single-lane road closures daily. Contractors will import gravel and place it west of Birch Bay Drive, install plantings, and put in stormwater structures from 7am-5pm. On Thursday, work will include berm shaping from 5pm-3am.

Public Participation Sought for Jackson Bridge Replacement at Virtual Meeting and Online Survey

Whatcom County Public Works plans to replace the Jackson Road Bridge over Terrell Creek in Birch Bay. The project is in the planning phase, and a size, type, and location analysis is underway. The public is encouraged to provide their input through an onl...

Birch Bay Drive Construction Update for the week of Jan. 25

Drivers can expect single-lane closures as construction continues from 7am-5pm Monday-Friday, installing swales, importing gravel west of the road, and planting. Crews will also work 5pm-3am on Thursday grading the berm north of Harborview Road.

Birch Bay Drive Construction Update for the Week of Jan. 18

Drivers can expect periodic single-lane closures from 7am - 5 pm as Granite Construction imports gravel west of Birch Bay Drive, places limestone along the pedestrian path, and installs swales. Concrete curb and sidewalk will also be poured.

Birch Bay Berm Performs Well During Jan. 13 Storm

Last night’s storm with high tide and heavy wind was a good test of the structure of the berm. It performed as expected – excellent really. The berm was not damaged in the storm. A small amount of debris came through the berm near the ...

Ferry Increased Weight Limits for Personal Vehicles on Jan. 1

On January 1, 2021, the Ferry Division increased the maximum gross vehicle weight for personal vehicles on the Whatcom Chief from 8,000 lbs to 11,000 lbs. The increased weight limit applies to all $13 single ride round trips, and all multi-ride punch card...

Birch Bay Drive update for the week of Jan. 11

Granite Construction will work from 7am-5pm Monday-Friday placing gravel west of the road, pouring concrete sidewalk, and preparing the limestone path. Drivers should expect periodic single lane closures. Please stay away from construction areas.

Birch Bay Drive update for the week of Jan. 4

The contractor will work from 7am-5pm Monday-Friday. Drivers can expect intermittent single lane closures near the Harborview intersection as workers form sidewalks, plant vegetation, and import gravel. Please stay away from all construction work.

Birch Bay: Keep Your Berm Safe During New Year's Celebrations

As Birch Bay residents prepare for the annual Ring of Fire and Hope and the Polar Bear Plunge, we have a few tips to keep you and the construction site safe:

• The beach area is still an active construction site. Stay away from all construction areas and equ...

Birch Bay Drive Update for Dec. 21-23

Crews will work from 7am-5pm Monday-Wednesday planting in the area north of the Bay Breeze Restaurant. No traffic impacts expected. No night work.

Credit Card Fees Will Apply to Single-Ride Ferry Fares Starting Jan. 1

Starting on Jan. 1, 2021, the Ferry Division will charge a .50 cent credit card fee on all single-ride fare transactions. Multi-ride passes purchased with a credit card already pay a credit card fee. This change adds consistency by also charging a credit ...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sale January 13

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale is from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 13, at the ferry office, located at the island-side ferry terminal. All types of ferry punch cards will be sold, including those for current n...

Annual US Coast Guard Inspection Dec. 16 Could Affect 1pm Ferry Sailing

The US Coast Guard will conduct an annual safety inspection of the Whatcom Chief on Wednesday, Dec. 16. This may delay or cancel the round trip 1:00PM run from Lummi Island. The Public Works Department would like to thank everyone in advance for their coo...

Birch Bay Drive Update for Dec. 14-18

Granite Construction crews will work 7am-5pm Monday-Friday on plantings, excavation, sidewalk grading, and topsoil placement. These activities will have minimal traffic impacts. Crews will also work nights 4pm-2am Monday-Thursday importing gravel and plac...

Birch Bay Drive Update for Dec. 7-11

The week of Dec. 7-11, from 7am–5pm Monday-Friday, sidewalks and plantings will be installed. Our contractor, Granite, will install some stormwater structures and perform grading along the pedestrian path. This work will have minimal impacts on traffic. N...

Correction: Birch Bay Drive Update for Dec. 7-11

A notice was sent out at approx. 9:23am with the title Marie Drive Construction Update for Dec. 7-11. This update was for Birch Bay Drive, not Marine Drive. Please accept our apologies for this error.

Birch Bay Drive project update for the week of Dec. 7-...

Birch Bay Drive update for the week of Nov. 30-Dec. 4

Nov. 30-Dec. 4 contractor crews will work both days and nights. Day shift 7am-5pm working on plantings and sidewalks, minimal traffic impacts. Night shift 4pm-2am importing gravel to place on the berm, with single-lane closures during those times.

Marine Drive Improvement Planning Continues

Whatcom County Public Works and its consultant, Pacific Survey and Engineering, Inc., are working towards a 100% design document. This will include technical components of the roadway widening, stormwater and water quality system design, street lighting, ...

Community Invited to Virtual Marine Drive Trail Planning Meeting

The Port of Bellingham, along with the City of Bellingham and Whatcom County, will host a Marine Drive Trail System virtual update from 3:30-4:30 pm on Nov. 30. The virtual meeting will start with a presentation of draft trail concepts. Following the pres...

Public Works Launches New Travel Planning Tool; COVID-19 Could Impact Snow Response

Whatcom County Public Works (WCPW) has launched a new online tool for residents that shows active construction projects and snow routes called the County Travel Planner; it includes an interactive map so travelers can plan their routes. This is especially...

Electrical Issues at Lummi Island Dock Cause Ferry Schedule Delays

Electrical issues at the Lummi Island dock are causing ferry schedule delays. County crews are on-site and assessing the situation. The ferry is still operating, but not able to maintain the posted schedule at this time. Riders should expect delays. Addit...

Next Monthly Ferry Punch Card Sales December 2

The next Whatcom County Ferry Division monthly punch card sale will be from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2, at the ferry office, located at the island-side ferry terminal. All types of ferry punch cards will be sold, including those for c...

December 9 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9, for inspection and maintenance of the ferry terminal facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. 

 The Lummi Island Ferry will...

Birch Bay Drive Construction Update for the Week of Nov. 16

For the week of Nov. 16, the contractor, Granite Construction, will work 7am-5pm Monday-Friday pouring concrete for sidewalks and stairs, and night work 4pm-6am Monday-Thursday importing gravel. Drivers should expect single-lane closures.

Birch Bay Drive Construction Update for Nov. 9-13

For the week of Nov. 9, every day Granite will work from 7am to 5pm grading the path on the west side of Birch Bay Drive. Monday through Thursday, they will also work from 4pm to 2am delivering and importing gravel to the site.

Birch Bay Drive Construction Includes Both Day and Night Work Nov. 2-6

The week of Nov. 2-6, Granite Construction will work from 4pm-2am Monday-Thursday, and 7am-5pm Thursday-Friday. Crews will install stormwater utilities and continue to import gravel west of the road. Be prepared for single-lane road closures.

Monthly Lummi Island Ferry Punch Card Sales Resume November 4

Whatcom County’s Ferry Division will resume monthly punch card sales with a November sale from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, at the ferry office, located at the island-side ferry terminal. All types of ferry punch cards will be s...

Traffic Reduced to One Lane on Nootka Loop Starting Nov. 2 for Construction

P&P Excavating, LLC will construct stormwater improvements along Birch Point Drive at Nootka Loop (the east entrance to Birch Bay Village). These project improvements include installing a new catch basin with a check valve and additional storm pipe. T...

Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility Update for the Week of Oct. 26

The week of Oct. 26-30 Granite will work from 5am-5pm. Dump trucks will bring in and deliver gravel throughout the project area, crews will install manholes and stormwater outfalls near the intersection of Cottonwood Drive and Birch Bay Drive, and work on...

Lummi Island Ferry Expands COVID-19 Sailing Schedule Oct. 26; Punch Card Procedures Also Changing

After running on a reduced COVID-19 schedule since March, the Whatcom Chief will resume a more traditional weekday schedule starting on Monday, Oct. 26, with a regular, pre-COVID schedule for the morning and daytime hours, and a revised schedule from 3pm ...

Birch Bay Drive work shifts to 4pm-2am this week

The week of Oct. 19-23, Granite will work from 4pm to 2am. Drivers should expect single-lane closures. Dump trucks will deliver gravel along the west side of Birch Bay Drive. Please avoid the area to reduce your chances of being delayed by construction.

Leeward Way Daytime Road Closures Start Monday

A portion of Leeward Way will close from 7:00am to 7:00pm on weekdays starting Monday, October 26, through Friday, December 4. The closure will be about 150-feet north of Southgate Road. Crews will install a storm pipe to improve water drainage.

Birch Bay Drive Project Update for Oct. 12-15

Drivers should expect single lane closures as Granite works from 5 am to 5 pm installing stormwater catch basins and storm sewer pipe west of Birch Bay Drive. The contractor will also clear vegetation and place gravel west of Birch Bay Drive. 

• Vis...

October 21 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 21, for inspection and maintenance of the ferry terminal facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. 

• The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of...

Birch Bay Drive Update for the Week of Oct. 5

Starting the week of Oct. 5, construction work will be from 7 am to 5 pm. Drivers should expect single lane closures Monday through Thursday. Crews with Granite Construction will deliver gravel and place it west of Birch Bay Drive, install a construction ...

Whatcom Chief Scheduled to Return to Service Oct. 3

The Whatcom Chief is scheduled to return to service at 6pm on Saturday, Oct. 3, after three weeks in dry dock. This scheduled return is dependent on upon successful completion of the remaining shipyard repairs and sea trials.

Any vehicles parked in driving...

Birch Bay Drive Project Work Scheduled for the Week of Sept 28

Poor weather conditions postponed gravel paving between Lora Lane and the Bay Breeze Restaurant previously scheduled for Sept. 22-23. The week of Sept. 28 construction work will be from 5am-5pm. Granite will install stormwater catch basins along the weste...

High winds could cause ferry service disruptions Thursday night and Friday

Windy conditions have already delayed or canceled ferry service to Lummi Island this week, and forecasters are predicting that a stronger system will arrive Thursday night and Friday. Travelers should prepare for ferry delays due to weather associated wit...

Birch Bay Work Postponed between Lora Lane and the Bay Breeze Restaurant

Expected rain this week has postponed gravel paving between Lora Lane and the Bay Breeze Restaurant previously scheduled for Sept. 22-23. We had asked the public to stay away during construction, but restrictions are postponed until the work begins.

Expect Minor Delays on Northwest and Slater as Paving Continues

Whatcom County Public Works is grateful for the patience and support of the driving public as paving continues on Northwest Drive and Slater Road. Over the next few weeks, drivers can expect minor delays on Northwest during paving, and on both roads for t...

Northwest Drive Will Reopen Late this Evening; Thanks for Your Patience During Slater Road Paving

We are happy to announce that Northwest Drive will reopen late this evening (9/11/20) - in time for the weekend but not in time for the Friday afternoon commute. Our contractor doesn’t have an exact reopening time. We know the closure of this ro...

Final COVID-19 Passenger Only Ferry Use Policy Available Online

Whatcom County Public Works appreciates everyone who took the time to make public comment on our passenger-only ferry and shuttle van COVID-19 policy while it was in draft form. We have made some modifications and published a final policy document on our ...

Leeward Way Drainage Improvement Construction Starts in October

Henifin Construction, LLC will construct stormwater improvements along Leeward Way to reduce standing water on the roadway during heavy rains. The work is scheduled to start on Monday, Oct. 5, the roadwork will begin at Leeward Way and Southgate Road, and...

Public Comments and Responses to Ferry's COVID-19 Policy Now Available

Whatcom County Public Works created a draft COVID-19 policy for the Lummi Island passenger-only ferry and shuttle van service while the Whatcom Chief is in dry dock. Anonymized comments and agency responses are now available online.  

• View public ...

Slater Road Paving Could Affect Drivers; Northwest Closure Continues

The days surrounding Labor Day (Sept. 7) are traditionally a time when people like to go out of town for end-of-summer vacations. We want to remind everyone that Northwest Drive remains closed with detours in place as part of a culvert replacement and pav...

Ferry Dry Dock Update: Additional Vehicle Parking Map Added

The Lummi Island Ferry dry dock webpage has been updated with a new map showing additional parking locations on the mainland for vehicles to use during dry dock. 

• View the map online 
• Visit our dry dock webpage.  

Ferry Dry Dock Shuttle Service and Vehicle Parking Information Available Online

Our Ferry Division is preparing for the annual dry dock maintenance of the Whatcom Chief, scheduled to begin on Sept. 12. We have updated our Dry Dock Webpage with additional information on our island shuttle van service and personal vehicle parking maps ...

Northwest Drive and Slater Road Project Update for Aug. 20; Road Closes Aug. 24

The project to pave portions of Northwest Drive and Slater Road has officially started. This project will also replace a culvert on Northwest that will completely close the road for several weeks starting on Monday, Aug. 24. Here’s an overview o...

Pavement Striping Operations Rescheduled for Aug. 25-26 on Lummi Island Roads

Pavement striping operations are scheduled from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 25-26, on paved Lummi Island roads. This is the final step in the chip seal road work project. This work was originally scheduled Aug. 17-18 but was rescheduled...

One Day Closure of Edgewater Lane's South Entrance Set For Aug. 26

The southerly entrance to Edgewater Lane will close from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm on Wednesday, August 26, for the installation of new storm pipe. The north entrance to Edgewater Lane will remain open.Visit the project website for additional information.

Ferry's Draft COVID-19 Dry Dock Policy Available; Public Comment Open Through Aug. 28

We are creating a COVID-19 policy for the passenger-only ferry and shuttle van service that will provide transportation to and from Lummi Island while the Whatcom Chief is in dry dock.

We are balancing the prevention requirements of operating a ferry durin...

Lummi Island Supplemental Parking Lot Closes for Maintenance Aug. 22

The supplemental Lummi Island ferry parking lot will close for maintenance from Saturday, August 22, through Friday, August 28.

• All vehicles must be removed from this parking lot no later than Friday evening, August 21.
• Vehicles in the parking lot on Saturd...

Restoration Project will Deliver Logs via Helicopter; Public Should Not Approach Operation

BELLINGHAM, WA – Residents in Birch Bay may see a low-flying helicopter carrying logs in the area of Terrell Creek between Kickerville Road and Jackson Road as part of fish habitat improvements to the waterway. The habitat improvements will take...

Northwest Drive and Slater Road Project Update Aug. 10, 2020

Portions of Northwest Drive and Slater Road will be repaved soon as part of a project that will also replace a culvert on Northwest that will completely close the road. We expect the project to officially start Thursday, Aug 20. That’s when our ...

Public Works Gravel on Lummi Island to be Used for Additional Projects

Whatcom County Public Works has had a number of people ask about purchasing potential surplus gravel from our island maintenance projects. A large portion of the gravel we brought over to the island was used for chip seal road work. Now that the chip seal...

Northshore Drive / Edgewater Lane Stormwater Improvements Start Aug. 10

Whatcom County will improve the water quality of Lake Whatcom, the drinking water source for many city and county residents, with a project that will include installing a new 8-ft x 12-ft stormwater treatment vault and installing 600 feet of new stormwate...

Public Works Gravel on Lummi Island

We’ve had a number of people on Lummi Island ask about potential surplus gravel from our island maintenance projects, and if that material would be available for purchase. First, we do still have some work left to do on the island that will use ...

Results of Marine Drive Survey

We received 27 responses to our Marine Drive survey. We appreciate everyone who took the time to take the survey and to share it with their friends and neighbors. Your responses will help us as we continue to plan this project. 

• View the results o...

Lummi Island Chip Seal Road Work Update

Chip seal operations on Lummi Island are complete. Islanders will notice that all our signage is still up. The project isn’t officially done quite yet. The paint striping machine will come through soon and re-stripe the roadway markings. Re-stri...

Lummi Island Ferry Tide-Related Weight Restrictions in August

Trucks over 40,000 GVW are prohibited during tides below zero. 

• View the August table of excluded times due to low tides.
• Contact the Whatcom Chief with questions at 360-815-5629.

August 19 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19, for inspection and maintenance of the ferry terminal facilities at both Lummi Island and Gooseberry Point. 

• The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of ...

August 5 Punch Card Sale at Lummi Island Ferry Office

Punch card sales will be from 5:20 a.m. to 2:40 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, at the Lummi Island ferry office. All types of ferry punch cards will be sold, including those for current needs-based customers. Payments may be made by check or credit card. No cash...

Whatcom Chief Scheduled for Dry Dock Maintenance and Repairs Sept. 12-Oct. 3

The Whatcom Chief will be out of service for dry dock repairs and maintenance starting the morning of Saturday, Sept. 12, and is expected to return to service the evening of Saturday, Oct. 3. The return date is tentative and subject to change; additional ...

Chip Seal Road Work Scheduled on Lummi Island and Lummi Nation July 27-30

Whatcom County has scheduled the following roads for chip sealing from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. starting Monday, July 27, and continuing through Thursday, July 30.

Lummi Island Roads:

• BLIZARD RD
• LANE SPIT DR
• NUGENT RD

Lummi Nation and Other County Roads:

• BOYNTON ...

Road Striping on Smith, Northwest and Axton Scheduled for July 28; Drivers Should Expect Long Delays

Pavement striping operations are scheduled from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesday, July 28, on the following roads; 

• E. Smith Rd between Hannegan Rd & Guide Meridian

• W. Smith Rd between Guide Meridian & Ferndale City Limits

&a...

Lummi Island Ferry Crew Rescue Distressed Kayakers

Keen observation and quick action by the captain and crew of the Whatcom Chief saved two kayakers on Thursday, July 16. During a routine trip between Lummi Island and the mainland, Whatcom Chief Captain Gary Poole noticed a kayak in the distance that was ...

Pavement Striping on Smith, Silver Lake, and S. Pass Roads July 20-23

Pavement Striping operations are scheduled from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Tuesday, July 21, on Smith Road, from Hannegan to Northwest Drive. Drivers should expect long delays during this work. Please use alternate routes whenever possible.

Striping is also schedu...

Roads Scheduled for Chip Seal Work July 20-23 on Lummi Island and Peninsula

Whatcom County has scheduled the following roads for chip sealing beginning Monday, July 20 and continuing through Thursday, July 23 from 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Lummi Island Roads:

• Blizard Rd• Cedar Pl• Centerview Rd• ...

Heavy Truck Traffic on Lummi Ferry July 16

Ferry passengers should expect long wait times for the Lummi Island Ferry from 8am-5pm on Thursday, July 16, due to heavy truck traffic.

Additional Lummi Island Roads Scheduled for Chip Seal Work Starting July 13

Whatcom County has scheduled additional roads for chip sealing on Lummi Island. Work on the following roads will begin on Monday, July 13, and continue through Thursday, July 16, from 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

• Antoinette Lane
• Blizard Road
• Centerview Road
• Consti...

Pavement Striping on Everson-Goshen Road Set for July 15; Drivers Should Expect Long Delays

Pavement striping operations are scheduled from 6am to 6pm Wednesday, July 15 on Everson-Goshen Road from SR 542 (Mt. Baker Hwy) to E. Pole Road. Drivers should expect long delays during this work. Please use alternate routes whenever possible. 

S...

Marine Drive Reconstruction Project Update for July 1, 2020

Whatcom County Public Works has been working with our hired design consultant, Pacific Survey and Engineering, Inc., toward developing the project to the 60% design level, which includes:  

• Roadway widening. 
• Stormwater and water quality s...

Registration Open for Drought Planning and Preparedness Speaker Series

Community members are invited to join a virtual forum organized by the Whatcom Watershed Information Network and the Whatcom Marine Resources Committee (MRC) to learn about drought vulnerability and preparedness in Whatcom County, and drought contingency ...

July Weight Restrictions on the Lummi Island Ferry

We impose vehicle weight restrictions on the Lummi Island Ferry during tides lower than zero to prevent damage to our docks. Any vehicle over 40,000 GVW is prohibited on the ferry during these low tides. Read our July weight restrictions letter with speci...

Lummi Island Chip Seal Road Work Notification

Whatcom County has scheduled chip sealing on Lummi Island beginning Tuesday, July 7 and continuing through Thursday, July 9 between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. This project includes all paved county roads and will begin in the Hales Pass...

Lummi Island Chip Seal Road Work Notification

Whatcom County has scheduled chip sealing on Lummi Island beginning Tuesday, July 7 and continuing through Thursday, July 9 between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. This project includes all paved county roads and will begin in the Hales Pass...

Lummi Island Road Maintenance Starts in July

Every paved county road on Lummi Island is planned for chip seal road maintenance starting around July 6. The exact start date may change due to weather and other factors. We will keep you updated through this communication tool as more information become...

Pavement Striping Everson Goshen Road Set for June 24; Drivers Should Expect Delays During Work

Pavement Striping operations are scheduled from 6am-6pm on Wednesday, June 24, for Everson Goshen Road. The affected portion of Everson Goshen Road is from Mt. Baker Hwy to E. Pole Road. Please use alternate routes when possible and plan for long delays w...

Roads Scheduled for Phase One Chip Sealing June 22-25

Each year Whatcom County Public Works selects roadways for preventative maintenance known as bituminous surface treatment, commonly known as chip sealing. Lummi Nation roadways are scheduled first, starting on June 22.

The following roads are scheduled for...

Public Invited to Help Collect Valuable Species Data Using Smartphone App

Community members are invited to become science volunteers as part of the newest project by the North Sound Stewards Program, organized by the Whatcom Marine Resources Committee (MRC) and RE Sources. The program will utilize iNaturalist, a free app and we...

Drivers Should Expect Delays during Roadway Chip Sealing Starting June 22

Each year Whatcom County Public Works selects roadways for preventative maintenance known as bituminous surface treatment, or commonly known as chip sealing. Most areas are selected on a rotating 10-12 year cycle.  Roadways in three areas of What...

Drivers Should Expect Delays during Roadway Chip Sealing Starting June 22

Each year Whatcom County Public Works selects roadways for preventative maintenance known as bituminous surface treatment, or commonly known as chip sealing. Most areas are selected on a rotating 10-12 year cycle.  Roadways in three areas of What...

Ferry Pass Purchases Take Longer During COVID-19 Restrictions

We care about the safety and health of our passengers and crew. We’ve put together a few reminders for our ferry travelers related to COVID-19 restrictions. 

Online Ticket Sales:

• Please do not wait until the last minute to purchase a punc...

Northwest Drive and Slater Road Repaving Project Newsletter June 2, 2020

Northwest Drive and Slater Road RepavingCounty Road Project Numbers 919003 & 919022

Whatcom County Public Works plans to repave portions of Northwest Drive and Slater Road from July through September 2020. The affected portion of Northwest Drive is fro...

June 3 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

June 3 Service Outage Planned for Lummi Island Ferry

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMay 15, 2020 Contact: Rich Hudson, Senior Ferry MasterPhone: 360-778-6200Email: Ferry@co.whatcom.wa.us The Whatcom Chief will be out of service from 10:10 a.m. &...

Lummi Island Ferry Service Outage Planned for May 21

The Lummi Island Ferry will be out of service for a dry dock shipyard pre-bid meeting onboard the vessel. This outage will occur on Thursday, May 21, from 11:30 a.m. to approximately 2:00 p.m. There will be no ferry service during this time.

• The last morni...

Fares Resume May 18 for Lummi Island Ferry with Collection/Punch Card Changes

Beginning Monday, May 18, fare collection will resume onboard the Whatcom Chief. In an effort to maintain social distancing and keep both customers and employees safe, Lummi Island Ferry staff will no longer accept cash. In addition, ferry crew will no lo...

Single Day Closure of Drayton Harbor Road to Occur on Monday, May 4, for Long-Arm Mowing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEApril 30, 2020Media Contact: Marie Duckworth, Communications SpecialistPhone: 360-603-1103E-mail address: mduckwor@co.whatcom.wa.us

Single Day closure of Drayton Harbor Road to Occur on Monday, May 4, for Long-Arm Mowing

Drayto...

03/26/20 Lummi Island COVID19 Ferry Sailing Schedule

03/26/20 FERRY Modified Schedule Effective during the COVID19 Pandemic

03/26/20 Lummi Island COVID19 Ferry Sailing Schedule

03/26/20 FERRY Modified Schedule Effective during the COVID19 Pandemic

Lummi Island Ferry COVID19 Sailing Schedule Changes effective as of 3/26/20

Following Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 20-25 imposing a Stay-at-Home Order and in an effort to minimize risk and maximum response to COVID19, we are implementing a special modified sailing schedule.

Lummi Island Ferry COVID19 Sailing Schedule Changes effective as of 3/26/20

Following Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 20-25 imposing a Stay-at-Home Order and in an effort to minimize risk and maximum response to COVID19, we are implementing a special modified sailing schedule.

Lummi Island Ferry Fare Collection Update as of 3/26/20

Following Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 20-25 imposing a Shelter-in-Place Order and in an effort to minimize risk and maximum response to COVID19, we are implementing the following changes to the Lummi Island Ferry’s operations.

Lummi Island Ferry Fare Collection Update as of 3/26/20

Following Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 20-25 imposing a Shelter-in-Place Order and in an effort to minimize risk and maximum response to COVID19, we are implementing the following changes to the Lummi Island Ferry’s operations.