WASHINGTON, D.C. (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Several community infrastructure projects are on their way to Whatcom County as part of this year’s fiscal spending package.

The U.S. Senate approved the package on Friday, days after it was approved by the House. It earmarks just over $19 million for 15 projects in northwest Washington that were identified as “critical” by elected officials and community leaders. The majority of the money will go towards the Lummi Nation’s Slater Road Elevation Project. It will use $8 million to elevate part of the road by 12 feet to reduce flooding and congestion.

Another $440,000 will be given to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office to fund a Rapid DNA system. Current DNA testing used by the department can take anywhere from 48 hours to a year to process samples, but a Rapid DNA machine can break down that process in as little as 90 minutes.

The City of Ferndale will receive $1 million to construct its new civic center, including a new city hall, municipal court and public meeting space.

Other projects around the county will improve safety near schools on Bradley Road in Lynden, replace a Lake Whatcom water reservoir and expand technical education programming for local high school students.

The package now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.