BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Plans are moving ahead for a new park in Bellingham’s Birchwood neighborhood.

The City Council unanimously approved a contract worth over $1.9 million to begin Phase 1 work on Storybrook Park later this year.

The property is located at the corner of W Maplewood Ave and McLeod Rd, and is currently being used as an “open space” area.

Councilmember Edwin “Skip” Williams added that a second project to add nearby sidewalks will also be completed at the same time as the park.

“The City combined the two parts for design and construction to take advantage of economy of scale and provide a safe walking route to Storybrook Park at the end of construction,” Williams said.

The 5.7-acre park will feature a new playground and plaza, upgrades to existing trails, and water and electric installation.

Construction is scheduled to begin next month, with an opening date set for January 2026.