The Port Commission will consider entering into a termination agreement with Ireland-based Harcourt Developments at its upcoming public meeting on May 6 which would end the company’s exclusive rights to develop commercial and residential projects on Bellingham’s downtown waterfront.
Harcourt was unanimously selected as Master Developer in 2015 by an evaluation committee of representatives from the Port, City of Bellingham, Whatcom County, and Western Washington University.
Harcourt restored the historic Granary Building in 2019 and finished one condominium building earlier this year, but overall, the pace of development has not met the schedule and performance requirements set forth in the Master Development Agreement.
The proposed termination agreement outlines terms for ending the development relationship, including the release of all property under exclusive development rights by Harcourt to the Port. If the agreement is approved, any decisions about the future of this property will be made by the Port Commission in open public meetings with continued public engagement and input.
Harcourt will continue to own the Granary Building and three condominium buildings along the Whatcom Waterway. One condominium building is finished and two are under construction. The condominiums include ground floor retail and underground parking to support a walkable, year-round neighborhood.
Public comment will be accepted during the Port Commission meeting on May 6, and meeting materials, including the proposed agreement, are available on the Port’s website at https://www.portofbellingham.com/DocumentCenter/View/14680/Action-2---Harcourt