Community input is now being accepted about the development of Bellingham's waterfront.

The Bellingham Herald ( http://is.gd/1yawK3) reports the Port of Bellingham presented a framework for redevelopment of about 237 waterfront acres. Public hearings will be held over the next few weeks.

The proposed plan for the area includes 33 acres of new parks and trails.

Nearly 170 acres would be devoted to a "working waterfront. Port officials expect the plan would lead to 6,500 new jobs when completed. About 37 acres will be developed as a connector to Bellingham's downtown core.

The phased plan calls for a steady rate of development over several decades with gradual public investment. Officials called it an evolving plan that is expected to change over time.

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Information from: The Bellingham Herald, http://www.bellinghamherald.com