Columbia-Eldridge

An established neighborhood in Bellingham, WA ( development began in the late 1800′s), bordered by Meridian to the east, Squalicum Pkwy. to the North and Eldridge S/SW. A diverse group of families , professionals, gardeners extraordinaire, students, artists, musicians, just a great mix of people as well as diverse architecture; from late 1800′s Victorians and Craftsman to new construction. In fact, newer construction comprises a small percentage of the homes. Not to mention location, location, location minutes from downtown Bellingham, or the I-5, Columbia-Eldridge also sits atop the bluff overseeing Bellingham Bay and Squalicum Beach.

Columbia Eldridge is a many faceted community with local businesses set amongst old and new residential architecture as well as beautiful old churches, and a few community parks.
One of the many attributes enjoyed by not only the residents but other visitors to Columbia is how walkable it is. So many enjoy walking the different blocks and viewing all of the different homes, colors and gardens.

Take a walk to Elizabeth Park  with walking paths, playground and tennis courts, not to mention its own set of ” residents” -  the local squirrel family.  Carl Lobe Park is a small park on Eldridge Ave. with a small grassy area and newly remodeled playground.  To the north is the Squalicum  Creek Park and Baseball Diamond, a great place, of course, to take in a ball game, or a great place to take the dog for a walk with its large bowl set back away from the road.

As I stated earlier, there are also quite a few local businesses that sit on the eastern border of Columbia on Meridian St.
To name a few, Cascade Pizza, Coffee Bean, The newly opened The Fountain, a coffee and wine bistro and of course, ReStore, a home remodeling center filled with architectural details from local teardowns or donations.  You name it you can find it at ReStore, from cabinetry to glass door knobs to paint to bath fixtures, Very cool place.

Columbia elementary school,  a highly rated public school, is here in this neighborhood, hence the namesake.

Click on the link to view the  photo tour of this wonderful community.

http://picasaweb.google.com/Roberta1318/ColumbiaEldridgeAPhotoEssay02#