2025 Comprehensive Plan Update

The State of Washington requires cities, who plan under the Growth Management Act (GMA), to regularly update their comprehensive plans and development regulations. This process is called a “periodic update” process and each jurisdiction is required to complete these updates every ten (10) years. This process ensures that the City’s comprehensive plan is coordinated with state laws and that we are implementing the Growth Management Act consistent with other cities in the state. The City of Ferndale is currently within a periodic update process and is expected to adopt revisions to the comprehensive plan and development code by December of 2025.

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Public Engagement

WWU Partnership: The City of Ferndale has partnered with Western Washington University’s Urban Planning Studio to engage with the community for the 2025 Comprehensive Plan Update. Join us for a community planning meeting on Tuesday, April 15th from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the City Hall Annex (5694 Second Avenue). The meeting will consist of a Western Washington University student presentation and opportunity for community feedback on a proposal to create three new future neighborhoods to meet Ferndale’s urban growth needs. Light refreshments will be provided and children are welcome. 

Grandview Economic Opportunity Study: The City of Ferndale, in partnership with the Port of Bellingham, is conducting a study to assess the economic benefits to utility ratepayers for funding utility improvements in the Grandview Area. The goal of the City of Ferndale and the Port of Bellingham is to encourage development that will bring the greatest economic benefits to Ferndale and Whatcom County.

Continue to check back for future meetings and other ways to engage.