Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan + Community Indoor Recreation Center

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This project is complete, and the Civic Compext Master Plan was approved by the City Council on March 23, 2026.

An aerial view of Civic Stadium with the Sportsplex and Sehome Hill in the background

 

See the final plan!   

The Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan was approved by the Bellingham City Council on March 23, 2026.

Watch the video below or ready the Master Plan to learn about the future of recreation at Civic Athletic Complex. With a strong focus on expanded indoor recreation options, plus upgrades to existing fields and sports facilities, see how we’re reimagining Bellingham’s premier recreation hub. 

Key Features of the Plan 

  • North end: We’re reserving space for the potential to build a replacement school for Carl Cozier elementary. New lighted and turfed baseball/softball and multi-use fields will create access to stellar amenities for field sports for both school and community use. 
  • South end: The south end of the complex will include a new community indoor recreation center – with expanded aquatics, gym space, fitness studios, and flexible meeting spaces – to deliver more opportunities to recreate and exercise out of the rain. The exact design of the community center isn’t part of this plan, but you can weigh in below on priorities that will drive the general size and shape it takes. 
  • Improvements and expansion of other amenities: Civic Stadium, Joe Martin Field, and forested trails will also receive much-needed upgrades. Plus, north of the Sportsplex, we’re holding space to expand that building or add a fieldhouse for more space for indoor sports. 
  • Better mobility for everyone: We’ll create better connections and easier navigation with a “Civic Promenade” – a pedestrian-friendly corridor linking the whole campus together. Parking improvements, gateway roundabouts, plazas, and more green space will welcome visitors, improving flow throughout the site.


Thank you for your feedback!

From Dec.10-31, 2025, we received almost 1,200 responses to our survey on priorities for the community indoor recreation center. We’ve heard many ideas about what a community center should include, and your feedback helped us determine what we focus on in both the Master Plan and the next phase of development of a community recreation center.

Read our community engagement summary to learn more about what we heard.

 

See the final plan!   

The Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan was approved by the Bellingham City Council on March 23, 2026.

Watch the video below or ready the Master Plan to learn about the future of recreation at Civic Athletic Complex. With a strong focus on expanded indoor recreation options, plus upgrades to existing fields and sports facilities, see how we’re reimagining Bellingham’s premier recreation hub. 

Key Features of the Plan 

  • North end: We’re reserving space for the potential to build a replacement school for Carl Cozier elementary. New lighted and turfed baseball/softball and multi-use fields will create access to stellar amenities for field sports for both school and community use. 
  • South end: The south end of the complex will include a new community indoor recreation center – with expanded aquatics, gym space, fitness studios, and flexible meeting spaces – to deliver more opportunities to recreate and exercise out of the rain. The exact design of the community center isn’t part of this plan, but you can weigh in below on priorities that will drive the general size and shape it takes. 
  • Improvements and expansion of other amenities: Civic Stadium, Joe Martin Field, and forested trails will also receive much-needed upgrades. Plus, north of the Sportsplex, we’re holding space to expand that building or add a fieldhouse for more space for indoor sports. 
  • Better mobility for everyone: We’ll create better connections and easier navigation with a “Civic Promenade” – a pedestrian-friendly corridor linking the whole campus together. Parking improvements, gateway roundabouts, plazas, and more green space will welcome visitors, improving flow throughout the site.


Thank you for your feedback!

From Dec.10-31, 2025, we received almost 1,200 responses to our survey on priorities for the community indoor recreation center. We’ve heard many ideas about what a community center should include, and your feedback helped us determine what we focus on in both the Master Plan and the next phase of development of a community recreation center.

Read our community engagement summary to learn more about what we heard.

This project is complete, and the Civic Compext Master Plan was approved by the City Council on March 23, 2026.

  • Share What about ice hockey? on Facebook Share What about ice hockey? on Twitter Share What about ice hockey? on Linkedin Email What about ice hockey? link

    What about ice hockey?

    Bobby Hull asked 5 months ago

    Good question, Bobby. We didn’t include ice hockey as an option in the questions about the community recreation center because our plan factors additional ice into expansion opportunities at the Sportsplex. Page 19 in the draft Master Plan provides more information about the Sportsplex expansion. 

  • Share I have a couple of questions: 1. Is Parks and Recreation coordinating with Public Works for this plan? I think it would be a good opportunity to implement some of the proposed multimodal changes to Lakeway, Lincoln, and Meador. It would be a shame to miss out on opportunities to create more robust connections between the complex and adjacent neighborhoods (including south of Lakeway). 2. I am very pleased to see a disc golf course being proposed for the woods. Is it possible these types of low cost improvements could be prioritized to help activate the space early on? 3. This is just a comment: I was happy to read that field turf mixes are being considered. I will miss the natural fields if completely removed and hope staff continue to consider keeping surfaces natural wherever possible. Bellingham lacks a central park type space, so any open green areas that are pleasant for sitting in the warmer months is welcome. on Facebook Share I have a couple of questions: 1. Is Parks and Recreation coordinating with Public Works for this plan? I think it would be a good opportunity to implement some of the proposed multimodal changes to Lakeway, Lincoln, and Meador. It would be a shame to miss out on opportunities to create more robust connections between the complex and adjacent neighborhoods (including south of Lakeway). 2. I am very pleased to see a disc golf course being proposed for the woods. Is it possible these types of low cost improvements could be prioritized to help activate the space early on? 3. This is just a comment: I was happy to read that field turf mixes are being considered. I will miss the natural fields if completely removed and hope staff continue to consider keeping surfaces natural wherever possible. Bellingham lacks a central park type space, so any open green areas that are pleasant for sitting in the warmer months is welcome. on Twitter Share I have a couple of questions: 1. Is Parks and Recreation coordinating with Public Works for this plan? I think it would be a good opportunity to implement some of the proposed multimodal changes to Lakeway, Lincoln, and Meador. It would be a shame to miss out on opportunities to create more robust connections between the complex and adjacent neighborhoods (including south of Lakeway). 2. I am very pleased to see a disc golf course being proposed for the woods. Is it possible these types of low cost improvements could be prioritized to help activate the space early on? 3. This is just a comment: I was happy to read that field turf mixes are being considered. I will miss the natural fields if completely removed and hope staff continue to consider keeping surfaces natural wherever possible. Bellingham lacks a central park type space, so any open green areas that are pleasant for sitting in the warmer months is welcome. on Linkedin Email I have a couple of questions: 1. Is Parks and Recreation coordinating with Public Works for this plan? I think it would be a good opportunity to implement some of the proposed multimodal changes to Lakeway, Lincoln, and Meador. It would be a shame to miss out on opportunities to create more robust connections between the complex and adjacent neighborhoods (including south of Lakeway). 2. I am very pleased to see a disc golf course being proposed for the woods. Is it possible these types of low cost improvements could be prioritized to help activate the space early on? 3. This is just a comment: I was happy to read that field turf mixes are being considered. I will miss the natural fields if completely removed and hope staff continue to consider keeping surfaces natural wherever possible. Bellingham lacks a central park type space, so any open green areas that are pleasant for sitting in the warmer months is welcome. link

    I have a couple of questions: 1. Is Parks and Recreation coordinating with Public Works for this plan? I think it would be a good opportunity to implement some of the proposed multimodal changes to Lakeway, Lincoln, and Meador. It would be a shame to miss out on opportunities to create more robust connections between the complex and adjacent neighborhoods (including south of Lakeway). 2. I am very pleased to see a disc golf course being proposed for the woods. Is it possible these types of low cost improvements could be prioritized to help activate the space early on? 3. This is just a comment: I was happy to read that field turf mixes are being considered. I will miss the natural fields if completely removed and hope staff continue to consider keeping surfaces natural wherever possible. Bellingham lacks a central park type space, so any open green areas that are pleasant for sitting in the warmer months is welcome.

    Nick Sotak asked 5 months ago

    Great questions!

    1. Yes, we’re working with all City departments on this plan. We agree about aligning multimodal improvements when it comes time to make changes along those streets. The City team will definitely consider how to leverage these opportunities. 

    1. We’ll consider that suggestion about phasing the disc golf. 

    1. Thanks for this input. We’ll keep it in mind as we consider field surfaces. 

  • Share Can you please add to my survey response under other recommendations? Covered bike parking areas. on Facebook Share Can you please add to my survey response under other recommendations? Covered bike parking areas. on Twitter Share Can you please add to my survey response under other recommendations? Covered bike parking areas. on Linkedin Email Can you please add to my survey response under other recommendations? Covered bike parking areas. link

    Can you please add to my survey response under other recommendations? Covered bike parking areas.

    JHR asked 5 months ago

    Great idea! We’ve seen this in other responses, too, and we’re making note of it for the final plan. 

  • Share Why or why are we continuing to turf over our natural fields? I'm dismayed that our school district and city aren't able to figure out drainage of natural turf. Please reconsider any use of artificial turf for school playfields. It's a shame that we're trending towards our children growing up running around on plastic... on Facebook Share Why or why are we continuing to turf over our natural fields? I'm dismayed that our school district and city aren't able to figure out drainage of natural turf. Please reconsider any use of artificial turf for school playfields. It's a shame that we're trending towards our children growing up running around on plastic... on Twitter Share Why or why are we continuing to turf over our natural fields? I'm dismayed that our school district and city aren't able to figure out drainage of natural turf. Please reconsider any use of artificial turf for school playfields. It's a shame that we're trending towards our children growing up running around on plastic... on Linkedin Email Why or why are we continuing to turf over our natural fields? I'm dismayed that our school district and city aren't able to figure out drainage of natural turf. Please reconsider any use of artificial turf for school playfields. It's a shame that we're trending towards our children growing up running around on plastic... link

    Why or why are we continuing to turf over our natural fields? I'm dismayed that our school district and city aren't able to figure out drainage of natural turf. Please reconsider any use of artificial turf for school playfields. It's a shame that we're trending towards our children growing up running around on plastic...

    Nick Sotak asked over 1 year ago

    Thanks for your feedback. When we begin designing the improved fields, we will consider a variety of turf materials, including options like cork. Non-grass turf allows kids (and adults) to stay active outdoors during shoulder season weather that typically closes down natural turf fields.

  • Share Hello, Where will the bellingham co-ed softball teams play when Geri fields are removed? on Facebook Share Hello, Where will the bellingham co-ed softball teams play when Geri fields are removed? on Twitter Share Hello, Where will the bellingham co-ed softball teams play when Geri fields are removed? on Linkedin Email Hello, Where will the bellingham co-ed softball teams play when Geri fields are removed? link

    Hello, Where will the bellingham co-ed softball teams play when Geri fields are removed?

    ms2320 asked over 1 year ago

    Hi, and thanks for your question. The Geri fields aren't removed in these development scenarios, with the exception of field 3, which could be converted into a wetland interpretation area. Geri 3 is very wet and is used mostly as a practice field right now. All site scenarios which show "new/replaced Recreation Amenities" over Geri 1 and 2 are labeled that way to indicate those fields are due for significant upgrades. 

    ballfields
    ballfields
  • Share Dear City of Bellingham, I am writing to provide feedback on the Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan, specifically regarding the preservation of mature trees on the site. I strongly support the City's efforts to preserve the central mature forest area within the complex, as this forest contains several Landmark Trees that are crucial to the health of our urban environment. However, I am concerned about Option 2, which could threaten Landmark Trees located directly north of the Sportsplex. It is essential that the final design of this option takes these trees into account and ensures they are fully protected from any development impacts. These trees are not only valuable for their environmental contributions but also for their historical and aesthetic significance to our community. I urge the City to commit to protecting all Landmark Trees at the Civic Athletic Complex, in line with the protections required of residents and private developers in public development projects. Preserving these trees is critical for maintaining Bellingham’s green spaces and urban ecosystem. Thank you for considering my input. on Facebook Share Dear City of Bellingham, I am writing to provide feedback on the Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan, specifically regarding the preservation of mature trees on the site. I strongly support the City's efforts to preserve the central mature forest area within the complex, as this forest contains several Landmark Trees that are crucial to the health of our urban environment. However, I am concerned about Option 2, which could threaten Landmark Trees located directly north of the Sportsplex. It is essential that the final design of this option takes these trees into account and ensures they are fully protected from any development impacts. These trees are not only valuable for their environmental contributions but also for their historical and aesthetic significance to our community. I urge the City to commit to protecting all Landmark Trees at the Civic Athletic Complex, in line with the protections required of residents and private developers in public development projects. Preserving these trees is critical for maintaining Bellingham’s green spaces and urban ecosystem. Thank you for considering my input. on Twitter Share Dear City of Bellingham, I am writing to provide feedback on the Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan, specifically regarding the preservation of mature trees on the site. I strongly support the City's efforts to preserve the central mature forest area within the complex, as this forest contains several Landmark Trees that are crucial to the health of our urban environment. However, I am concerned about Option 2, which could threaten Landmark Trees located directly north of the Sportsplex. It is essential that the final design of this option takes these trees into account and ensures they are fully protected from any development impacts. These trees are not only valuable for their environmental contributions but also for their historical and aesthetic significance to our community. I urge the City to commit to protecting all Landmark Trees at the Civic Athletic Complex, in line with the protections required of residents and private developers in public development projects. Preserving these trees is critical for maintaining Bellingham’s green spaces and urban ecosystem. Thank you for considering my input. on Linkedin Email Dear City of Bellingham, I am writing to provide feedback on the Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan, specifically regarding the preservation of mature trees on the site. I strongly support the City's efforts to preserve the central mature forest area within the complex, as this forest contains several Landmark Trees that are crucial to the health of our urban environment. However, I am concerned about Option 2, which could threaten Landmark Trees located directly north of the Sportsplex. It is essential that the final design of this option takes these trees into account and ensures they are fully protected from any development impacts. These trees are not only valuable for their environmental contributions but also for their historical and aesthetic significance to our community. I urge the City to commit to protecting all Landmark Trees at the Civic Athletic Complex, in line with the protections required of residents and private developers in public development projects. Preserving these trees is critical for maintaining Bellingham’s green spaces and urban ecosystem. Thank you for considering my input. link

    Dear City of Bellingham, I am writing to provide feedback on the Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan, specifically regarding the preservation of mature trees on the site. I strongly support the City's efforts to preserve the central mature forest area within the complex, as this forest contains several Landmark Trees that are crucial to the health of our urban environment. However, I am concerned about Option 2, which could threaten Landmark Trees located directly north of the Sportsplex. It is essential that the final design of this option takes these trees into account and ensures they are fully protected from any development impacts. These trees are not only valuable for their environmental contributions but also for their historical and aesthetic significance to our community. I urge the City to commit to protecting all Landmark Trees at the Civic Athletic Complex, in line with the protections required of residents and private developers in public development projects. Preserving these trees is critical for maintaining Bellingham’s green spaces and urban ecosystem. Thank you for considering my input.

    Meredith asked over 1 year ago

    Thank you for your feedback. The City of Bellingham is obligated to adhere to all applicable development permitting regulations for City projects, including the Landmark Tree Ordinance. 

    trees
    trees
  • Share Why take down mature trees without a plan to work around some of them? Save the landmark trees on Facebook Share Why take down mature trees without a plan to work around some of them? Save the landmark trees on Twitter Share Why take down mature trees without a plan to work around some of them? Save the landmark trees on Linkedin Email Why take down mature trees without a plan to work around some of them? Save the landmark trees link

    Why take down mature trees without a plan to work around some of them? Save the landmark trees

    smitichtracck asked over 1 year ago

    Thanks for your comment! The City of Bellingham is obligated to adhere to all applicable development permitting regulations for City projects, including the Landmark Tree Ordinance.

    trees
    trees
  • Share Greetings - I was not able to attend the Civic Complex plan open house, but I'd like to add my feedback. Overall, I like the idea and look forward to receiving more updates and opportunities to provide feedback, but I'd like to also see a Senior Center be included in the plan to be in the complex. I realize there are plans via Whatcom and Bellingham to relocate a Senior Center in the northern part of town in several years, but having a Senior Center in the vicinity of the complex where there are better and more bus stops and next door with the Lakeway centers provides for a better location and services. Please give it some consideration and thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback. on Facebook Share Greetings - I was not able to attend the Civic Complex plan open house, but I'd like to add my feedback. Overall, I like the idea and look forward to receiving more updates and opportunities to provide feedback, but I'd like to also see a Senior Center be included in the plan to be in the complex. I realize there are plans via Whatcom and Bellingham to relocate a Senior Center in the northern part of town in several years, but having a Senior Center in the vicinity of the complex where there are better and more bus stops and next door with the Lakeway centers provides for a better location and services. Please give it some consideration and thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback. on Twitter Share Greetings - I was not able to attend the Civic Complex plan open house, but I'd like to add my feedback. Overall, I like the idea and look forward to receiving more updates and opportunities to provide feedback, but I'd like to also see a Senior Center be included in the plan to be in the complex. I realize there are plans via Whatcom and Bellingham to relocate a Senior Center in the northern part of town in several years, but having a Senior Center in the vicinity of the complex where there are better and more bus stops and next door with the Lakeway centers provides for a better location and services. Please give it some consideration and thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback. on Linkedin Email Greetings - I was not able to attend the Civic Complex plan open house, but I'd like to add my feedback. Overall, I like the idea and look forward to receiving more updates and opportunities to provide feedback, but I'd like to also see a Senior Center be included in the plan to be in the complex. I realize there are plans via Whatcom and Bellingham to relocate a Senior Center in the northern part of town in several years, but having a Senior Center in the vicinity of the complex where there are better and more bus stops and next door with the Lakeway centers provides for a better location and services. Please give it some consideration and thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback. link

    Greetings - I was not able to attend the Civic Complex plan open house, but I'd like to add my feedback. Overall, I like the idea and look forward to receiving more updates and opportunities to provide feedback, but I'd like to also see a Senior Center be included in the plan to be in the complex. I realize there are plans via Whatcom and Bellingham to relocate a Senior Center in the northern part of town in several years, but having a Senior Center in the vicinity of the complex where there are better and more bus stops and next door with the Lakeway centers provides for a better location and services. Please give it some consideration and thanks for the opportunity to provide feedback.

    Sam13 asked over 1 year ago

    Thank you for this feedback! We will consider your suggestion in our final plan.