Blaine will mark the end of Peace Portal Drive construction with a grand reopening event Saturday.
BLAINE, Wash. — The Blaine Chamber of Commerce will host a grand reopening event Saturday on Peace Portal Drive to mark the completion of a city-led streetscape and infrastructure project in the downtown core.
The event begins at noon with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Blaine Visitor Center, 546 Peace Portal Drive. Local businesses will offer one-day promotions and giveaways throughout the day.
The event marks the end of construction on Peace Portal Drive, which remained open during much of the project but faced periodic access restrictions.
What the City Changed
The work is part of the City of Blaine’s Downtown Revitalization Project, a multi-year effort to upgrade aging infrastructure and redesign the city’s main commercial corridor.
City planning documents show crews rebuilt sidewalks, planted new street trees, installed updated lighting, added landscaping, and improved public seating areas. Contractors also upgraded parklets and retaining walls. In some areas, crews relocated utilities to support long-term maintenance and accessibility.
The city began design and engineering work several years ago after securing state grant funding. That phase included public input sessions and technical studies focused on pedestrian safety and street layout.
Construction entered its most visible phase in 2025. Crews worked block by block through early 2026.
How the Project Was Funded
The city used a mix of state grant funding and local capital dollars to support the project.
A $500,000 state grant helped cover early design, planning, and engineering work. Contracting records show the main construction phase carried a price tag of more than $3 million.
That funding covered sidewalk replacement, landscaping, streetscape features, pocket parks, and structural improvements along Peace Portal Drive.
City officials said revenue pressures and reduced cross-border traffic influenced the project’s scope and timing.
Business Access During Construction
Throughout construction, city leaders and business groups urged residents to keep shopping and dining downtown.
Most businesses stayed open, though access and foot traffic varied by phase. The work overlapped with a period of economic uncertainty for Blaine, which relies heavily on tourism and Canadian visitors.
Event Details
Saturday’s event will begin with a ribbon cutting at noon. Downtown businesses will offer specials and giveaways throughout the day.
Participating businesses include:
• Aloha Cafe — raffle and daily specials
• Bella Boutique — 20% off and raffle ticket with purchase
• Blind Bird Studio Art Lab — giveaway drawing
• Living Pantry — giveaway drawing
• Paso Del Norte — celebration special
• Gateway 1890 Taphouse & Grill — “Peace Portal” burger special
The Blaine Visitor Center will offer hot cider during the event.
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