Planning Underway for Whatcom County’s 2027–2031 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy

The Port of Bellingham has initiated the planning process for the 2027–2031 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), a five-year strategic plan that outlines regional economic development goals, priorities, and actions for Whatcom County, Washington. Developed in partnership with local stakeholders - including governments, businesses, tribal representatives, and community members - the CEDS guides long-term economic growth and resilience across the region.

The CEDS is a federally recognized planning document that articulates a shared vision for economic development in Whatcom County. Maintaining an up-to-date CEDS is essential for the region to be eligible for funding opportunities through the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), the Washington State Department of Commerce, and other sources. More than a compliance requirement, the CEDS ensures that economic initiatives are coordinated, strategic, and aligned with community needs.

The 2027–2031 CEDS update builds on the progress and insights gained from the current 2022–2026 CEDS Strategy, which was led by the Port’s economic development division and guided by the CEDS External Review Committee - comprising representatives from all jurisdictions in Whatcom County.

“The CEDS is much more than a planning document - it’s a foundation for action,” said Tyler Schroeder, Economic Development Director for the Port of Bellingham. “As we begin planning for 2027–2031, we’re focused on creating a strategy that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and resilient to economic change.”

Community engagement is a vital part of the process. The Port is actively seeking public input through a brief online survey to help identify priorities, challenges, and opportunities for economic development in Whatcom County. The survey is open for responses until December 20, 2025.

The planning process is being facilitated by Jennifer Noveck, Ph.D., who serves as the lead coordinator for the CEDS update on behalf of the Port’s economic development team.

The Port of Bellingham serves as the Associate Development Organization (ADO) for Whatcom County - a designation by the Washington State Department of Commerce. As the lead agency for the CEDS, the Port will oversee both the planning and implementation of the CEDS Action Plan.

The updated CEDS is expected to be completed and submitted for final review in 2026, positioning Whatcom County to remain competitive for economic development funding into the next decade.

For questions or comments regarding the CEDS update process, contact Jennifer Noveck, Ph.D. at mailto:jennifern@portofbellingham.com.

To view the current 2022–2026 CEDS report or learn more about the strategy, visit: https://www.portofbellingham.com/1003/CEDS

About the Port of Bellingham

The Port is a countywide municipal corporation with a mission to fulfill the essential transportation and economic development needs of the region. Throughout Whatcom County, the Port owns, operates, and maintains approximately 1600 acres of property, including a shipping terminal, a cruise terminal, two marinas, industrial development areas, commercial uplands, parklands, shoreline public access areas, and an international airport. For more information about the Port of Bellingham, please visit www.portofbellingham.com.