BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Plans to upgrade Bellingham’s premier recreation space are moving forward.

The city council voted unanimously on Monday night to approve the adoption of the Civic Athletic Complex Master Plan.

The plan includes the potential for a new indoor community recreation center, a disc golf course and expansion of the current sportsplex.

MXM architecture consultant Brice Maryman says Carl Cozier Elementary School could also be relocated to a more optimal spot on the northeast quadrant of the complex near Fraser Street.

“It moves the kids away from Lakeway, it tucks them down in a part of the site that is away from a lot of that noise and traffic,” Maryman told the council during a committee meeting.

Still, city staff noted that plans for Carl Cozier’s relocation are in flux as the Bellingham Public School district grapples with declining enrollment.

The master plan also includes construction of a “Civic Promenade” that would run through the middle of the complex as a way to connect the complex’s main facilities.

Bellingham Parks and Rec Director Nicole Oliver likened the walkway to a spine that could streamline the area for events hosted at Civic like the upcoming April Brewsday.

“Making it more accessible and user friendly is going to create other opportunities for bigger festivals and events to happen there and try and make it more of a gathering space,” Oliver said during the committee meeting.

Phase 1 of the master plan will involve field improvements before work begins on the promenade and indoor community center in Phases 2 and 3.