It's a momentous occasion for the Wheelhouse Building Project at the Community Boating Center as construction begins, thanks to the unwavering support of our generous donors, the Port of Bellingham, the Rotary Club of Bellingham and Exxel Pacific’s commitment to the project by donating 100% of its profit, overhead and all associated project management costs. The project, years in the making, is now officially underway, marking a significant milestone in the journey to enhance the Community Boating Center's (CBC) mission.
This past Friday, we celebrated the occasion with a groundbreaking celebration officially kicking off full-scale construction. You can watch the progress via a timelapse video of the project on our website.
The support we have received from our dedicated donors and partners has been instrumental in overcoming numerous challenges in the project's development. The first hurdle involved utility connections, which required a new utility trench that will connect us to services near the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, fully funded by the Port of Bellingham.
Moreover, with construction costs increasing due to inflation, material, and labor expenses, adjustments were made to ensure the project remains within the grasp of our budget. Our contractor, Exxel Pacific, is leading an effort to secure in-kind contributions from vendors and subcontractors; so far they have secured over $300,000 of support.
Given these realities, we are modifying our overall campaign goal from $1 million to $1.5 million, divided into two distinct phases. Phase one, which includes the Wheelhouse Building and the utility work, is closing in on its target of $1.3 million, with $1.05 million in pledged support.
Phase two will bring new tools of impact, including adaptive equipment to better serve individuals with physical disabilities and electric safety boats to eliminate fossil fuel from our operation. The full realization of these resources will coincide with the completion of the POB’s Small Watercraft Dock in 2025. By the end of 2025, we expect to fulfill our vision of having a fully accessible campus, dock, and boats.
The support from our community has allowed us to stay the course and make necessary adjustments. We’re closing in on the funding needed to complete the building, and the first chapter of this campaign, but we need your help!
On November 2nd, at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, we are hosting our first annual Navigator's Night Fundraiser. This event will celebrate our recent season, marked by expanded programs for individuals with disabilities, schools, and local tribes, and help us secure our path ahead. Guests can enjoy inspiring stories from one of our founders, Deb Dempsey and Executive Director Bryan Rust. We're also delighted to share that every dollar pledged during Navigator's Night will be matched, thanks to a generous $50,000 donation from a local supporter. Please join us to celebrate the CBC's growth and commitment to expanding access to the bay.
As we break new ground, we will continue to push our fundraising momentum into 2024. Stay tuned for updates on our progress and developments. If you have any questions or would like to contribute to our campaign, please don't hesitate to reach out.
For more information and to support the Wheelhouse Building Project, please visit
www.boatingcenter.org/wheelhouse
About the Wheelhouse Campaign: The Wheelhouse Capital Campaign is a significant initiative of the Community Boating Center (CBC) in Bellingham, WA. It aims to provide an accessible and inclusive environment for all, including individuals with physical disabilities, and to promote marine stewardship in boating. With the invaluable support of their community, the Rotary Club of Bellingham, the Port of Bellingham, and Exxel Pacific, the project is making strides toward achieving its goals.
