Submitted by Peoples Bank
Peoples Bank is proud to announce the Downtown Bellingham Partnership (DBP) as the recipient of the 2025 Peoples Choice Impact Grant. The organization was chosen by a public vote and received over 400 votes from the community. DBP will receive $10,000 to support its imaginative “Elevate Downtown: Art at Commercial Street Garage” project, which aims to transform a prominent downtown landmark into a vibrant artistic hub.
The Elevate Downtown initiative will bring public art to the Commercial Street Parking Garage, a large cement structure that serves as a gateway to the heart of Bellingham. With the grant funding, the Downtown Bellingham Partnership will launch a public art process that includes issuing a call for artist proposals, convening a selection committee to review submissions, and contracting with the chosen artist(s) to bring the project to life. The grant will cover artist fees, design development, and installation materials.
The Commercial Street Garage is a central fixture in Downtown Bellingham, often one of the first landmarks encountered by those exploring the city. The area surrounding the garage is known for its spontaneous activations and moments of delight, making it an ideal canvas for public art that inspires and engages.
“We’re thrilled to support a project that so beautifully aligns with our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Ria Van Weerdhuizen, Branch Manager at Peoples Bank’s Downtown Bellingham branch. “The Elevate Downtown project reflects the spirit of those who park in the garage and step out into the city—bringing beauty into the world through their everyday actions. Celebrating Downtown through art is a celebration of the business owners, residents, and visitors who make this place so special. The connections formed throughout the process are what make the impact lasting, and we’re honored to help make it possible.”
For more information about the Elevate Downtown project or to get involved, visit here.
About Peoples Bank
Peoples Bank is a locally owned and operated, independent full-service community bank with $2.4 billion in assets. Headquartered in Bellingham, Washington, Peoples Bank has been serving the community for 100 years and operates 23 locations throughout Washington. Reflecting its strong financial management practices, dedicated employees, and long-standing customer relationships, Peoples Bank was awarded a superior five-star rating from BauerFinancial, a leading independent bank rating firm. Learn more about Peoples Bank here. Member FDIC.
