GSA advances Whatcom County port projects after environmental review
TL/DR –
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) has released its decision on the expansion of the Kenneth G. Ward (Lynden) and Sumas land ports of entry in Whatcom County, Washington. The GSA has chosen to implement a north-south oriented expansion in Lynden and a multi-story construction expansion in Sumas, both aimed at improving traffic flow and operations. The expansions are funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, and are expected to increase efficiency, security, and reduce wait times.
January 14, 2025
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act offer funding for projects that will bolster border operations while fueling economic growth.
The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) disclosed its Record of Decision and accompanying Final Environmental Impact Statement today, revealing plans for the modernization of Kenneth G. Ward (Lynden) and Sumas land ports of entry in Whatcom County, Washington.
The Lynden and Sumas land ports require updates to efficiently meet federal operations and the public’s needs. Both land ports face space limitations, causing commercial vehicle lane congestion at Lynden and obstructing efficient traffic flow at Sumas, which negatively impacts both the port’s operations and surrounding community.
The Final Environmental Impact Statement elaborates on the projects’ purpose, alternatives considered, environmental impacts, proposed mitigation measures, and GSA’s preferred options. GSA has chosen “Alternative 3, North-South Oriented LPOE Expansion” for Lynden and “Alternative 4, Multi-Story Construction LPOE Expansion” for Sumas.
Lynden’s design will undergo a north-south orientation modification to the west and south for improved commercial traffic flow, mirroring the port’s existing traffic flow. In Sumas, operational space inside the Main Building will be consolidated on multiple levels to reduce the building footprint. This option also includes an employee pedestrian bridge for added safety.
The final port configurations are under consideration with ongoing design considerations.
GSA’s decision is based on various factors including the Final Environmental Impact Statement, comments from agencies and the public, and other documents contained in the administrative record.
Sukhee Kang, Regional Administrator for GSA’s Northwest/Arctic Region, emphasized the importance of the land ports as gateways for commercial traffic and as a bridge between American and Canadian communities. The planned expansions, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, will enhance border security measures, reduce wait times, and foster cross-border community and economic vitality in the Pacific Northwest.
The redesign will significantly improve efficiency and security, facilitating traffic flow and incorporating advanced technology compatible with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection operations.
About GSA:
The GSA provides centralized procurement and shared services for the federal government, managing a vast nationwide real estate portfolio and delivering technology services across multiple federal agencies. For more information, visit the GSA website.
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