Posted: Thursday, 04 February 2010 2:50PM
Tribe, County Reach Lummi Island Ferry Agreement
Tracy Ellis Reporting
BELLINGHAM, Wash. -- Good news for Lummi Island residents.
The Lummi Nation and Whatcom County have reached an agreement ensuring that ferry service between Gooseberry Point and the island will continue uninterrupted.
Details still have to be worked out, but there is a conceptual agreement for a 25-year lease, with an option to renew for an additional 25 years.
“I’m pleased that we are working collaboratively and have achieved substantial progress,” said Whatcom County Executive Pete Kremen.
The cost to the county hasn’t been released, but the deal will likely include traffic improvements to address tribal concerns over safety.
“It’s important to the Lummi Nation that we continue to be good neighbors within the greater community,” said Henry Cagey, Chairman of the Lummi Nation.
The county’s current lease for Gooseberry Point is set to expire on Valentines Day.
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