All posts by Morgan Libby

SSC SERVICE UPDATE FOR FRIDAY 02/07/2025

Service Update for Sudden Valley Residents

SSC has assessed current conditions and anticipates servicing most of Sudden Valley as scheduled on Friday, February 7th. However, due to road conditions, crews may be unable to access some steep streets in Gates 3, 5, 9, and 13.

To support residents affected by potential service disruptions, SVCA has placed collection containers at the Barn parking lot for trash disposal. These containers can be accessed by visiting the Rec Center and requesting staff to unlock them for you.

Additionally, if SSC cannot reach your residence and you are unable to wait until your next scheduled pick-up, you may drop off garbage and recycling free of charge at one of SSC’s three Transfer Stations located in Bellingham, Birch Bay, or Cedarville. (Please note: RDS and Republic stations are not included.)

We appreciate your patience and cooperation. Thank you!

Road Condition Update 2/6/2025

As of 9:41 AM on Thursday, February 6, 2025, the Sudden Valley Community Association (SVCA) Maintenance team has been working in split shifts to address the overnight snowfall. Six snow removal vehicles and the smaller UTV machine are actively clearing snow across various gates. The Waste Removal Company, SSC, is assessing road conditions today and will decide regarding Friday’s trash pickup.

The current weather in Bellingham is cloudy with a temperature of 27°F (-3°C). Today’s forecast predicts cold conditions with decreasing clouds, a high of 37°F (3°C), and a low of 17°F (-8°C).

🚧 Snow Removal Operations & Safety

✅ Plowing Schedule – Main roads will be cleared first, followed by secondary roads and then residential roads. Please be patient as crews work through priority routes. For a full list of Sudden Valley roads and their designations, please see the Snow Response Plan Street List and the full Snow Response Plan Street Map.
✅ Keep Roads Clear – Park vehicles in driveways, not on streets or mailbox sites, to allow plows full access. Vehicles left in roadways or in front of mailboxes may be towed.
✅ Snow Berms & Driveways – Plowing may create berms at driveway entrances. Residents are responsible for clearing their own driveways. Avoid shoveling snow back into the road.

🚨 Winter Safety Tips

🔹 Drive Cautiously – Roads may be icy. Use snow tires or chains as needed, and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snowfall.
🔹 Emergency Preparedness – Keep extra food, water, blankets, and flashlights in case of power outages.
🔹 Watch for Ice Patches – Black ice can form even after plowing. Walk and drive carefully.
🔹 Check on Neighbors – Look out for elderly or vulnerable residents who may need assistance with snow removal or supplies.

🛑 Important Reminders

🚫 No Pushing Snow into Roads – Doing so creates hazards and may result in fines.
🚫 Garbage Collection Delays – Expect potential delays in waste pickup due to weather conditions. Secure bins properly.
🚫 Stay Updated – Check the Sudden Valley Community Association website and social media for real-time updates on road conditions and plowing schedules.

Thank you for your cooperation and patience as we work to keep our community safe and accessible. If you have urgent concerns, please contact the SVCA office at (360) 734-6430. For additional information on Sudden Valley snow removal, please see the updated Snow Response Plan 2024-2025.

Stay warm, stay safe, and let’s get through this winter together! ❄️

— Sudden Valley Community Association 🚜

Please Attend a Community Meeting

The Architectural Control Committee (ACC) is in the process of revising the policies that govern new home construction and existing home maintenance and remodeling. The committee will present the proposed changes and ask for member feedback in a Community Meeting on Tuesday, June 18th, from 6 to 8 pm, in the Dance Barn. Members may also participate in the meeting via Zoom. This is a great opportunity to share your thoughts on the ACC Policies, available online at SuddenValley.com/residents-resources.

Firewise Community Roadside Pickup

The Firewise program starts Monday, April 22nd in Gate 5.
Here are some important points to remember about the Firewise program.
  • Place your branches next to the road.
  • Ensure branches are easily accessible. Keep those ditches and roads clear!
  • Only include naturally fallen branches.
  • Branches cannot exceed 6″ in diameter.
  • No limit on length of branches, crews prefer longer branches.
  • Piles no higher than 5′.
  • Branches only. Other vegetation will jam our equipment.
  • If you have leaves or clippings, please dispose of them separately.
Thank you for keeping Sudden Valley Clean and Safe!!

SVCA’s New Launch Dock is Open!

 SVCA’s new launch dock passed its final inspection by Whatcom County today, April 11th, 2024, and is ready for use. If you have renewed your marina wet or dry slip rental, your access card will open the launch gate. 2024 launch passes are available at the Welcome Center and the Rec Center. A day pass costs $25 for residents and $50 for non-residents and a 2024 season pass for unlimited launches costs $100 for residents and $200 for non-residents. Call 360-734-6430 for more information.

Asphalt Paving Project to Resume

On Tuesday, December 12th our subcontractor, WWRS will be back onsite finishing the asphalt patching.  This will impact two locations temporarily for the day:

  • In the vicinity of 32 Harbor View – Road will be closed from late morning to mid-afternoon, and cars will need to detour.
  • Gate 1 Entrance next to Guard Shack – The entrance will be open, but residents will be slowed down on entry as paving crews will be working on both sides of the road.