City of Bellingham Transportation Commission

Public testimony highlighted ongoing concerns about TIF methodology, with Planning Commissioner Dan Hunker arguing that current impact fee calculations penalize urban infill development and work against comprehensive plan goals. The commission's discussion revealed tension between using standardized industry methodologies versus creating more nuanced approaches that better reflect Bellingham's transit-oriented development priorities. The grant strategy presentation demonstrated the city's sophisticated approach to securing federal and state transportation funding, with multiple applications pending across programs from Safe Routes to School to freight improvements. Staff emphasized uncertainty in the federal funding landscape, noting that many Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act programs are reaching their end. The meeting concluded with an engaging workshop on traffic safety behavior change, where commissioners mapped barriers to slower speeds and discussed community messaging strategies. This initiative represents a new approach to Vision Zero goals, focusing on social norming rather than traditional enforcement or infrastructure-only solutions.