Resilient Point Roberts to meet May 1

On April 3, community members gathered at the Point Roberts Community Center for a workshop hosted by Resilient Point Roberts. During the meeting, community members contributed their ideas and visions to an ongoing economic development study led by the Port of Bellingham. The study, started in 2024, is being funded by a $72,000 state grant with an additional $18,000 being contributed by the Port of Bellingham, and is being developed in collaboration with consulting firm Maul, Foster & Alongi (MFA).

The study aims to help Point Roberts recover from ongoing economic challenges stemming from the COVID-19 shutdown, as well as more recent headwinds, including the impact of tariffs, a weak Canadian dollar, and decreased cross-border visitation. These factors have affected the community’s economy, which traditionally relies on Canadian visitors for much of its commercial activity.

Participants broke into small groups to share ideas focused on arts and culture, food security, eco-tourism, and disaster preparedness. Residents expressed interest in creative spaces like maker studios, performance venues, and informal gathering spots to support local talent and community connection.

Suggestions for nature-based tourism included better cycling infrastructure, seasonal festivals, and guided walking and bike tours. Food security ideas ranged from a year-round greenhouse and commercial kitchen to expanded farmers markets focused on regenerative agriculture.

Transportation was another key concern, with proposals for a water taxi or ferry, bike rentals, safer roads, and possibly acquiring the local marina and airport to boost tourism and emergency readiness.

The insights collected at the workshop will be forwarded to the Port of Bellingham and MFA as part of the community engagement process for the study. The next meeting of Resilient Point Roberts is scheduled for Thursday, May 1 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the community center, where residents can continue shaping the conversation about the community’s future.