Lake Chelan Trail Construction Begins, Boosting Regional Connectivity with $3.7 Million Investment

Construction of the Lakeside Trail in Chelan has officially commenced, marking a significant milestone toward enhancing pedestrian and cyclist accessibility in the region. This long-anticipated development transforms the corridor along W Woodin Avenue/Highway 97A into a safer and more inviting route for both residents and visitors. As part of Chelan’s Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program, the project has undergone extensive planning focused on securing necessary funding and refining design details.

The new infrastructure will span approximately 1.05 miles from West Lakeshore Place to Water Street. This shared-use path is poised to improve connectivity between residential neighborhoods, local businesses, and the downtown core of Chelan. Jake Youngren, City of Chelan Public Works Director, emphasized the broader community benefits, saying, “This project is about more than just a trail—it’s about building a safer, more connected community.”

Key features of the project include the installation of a 12-foot-wide path along the lakeside of US 97A, bolstered by a landscaped buffer designed for safety and stormwater management. Improved pedestrian crossings at critical intersections like Waterslide Drive, upgrades to public transit stops, and new road striping are part of the comprehensive enhancements planned.

The construction is scheduled from July 7 until the fall, requiring temporary lane shifts and flagger-controlled traffic during weekdays. Safety measures will include reduced speed limits in construction zones. Residents will maintain access to their homes and businesses, although they may experience brief delays or temporary driveway closures.

Parking along Woodin Avenue/SR97A will be prohibited during construction, with signage indicating these restrictions. Sanitation services will continue as usual, though some bins may be relocated by crews if necessary. No disruptions to water or sewer services are expected.

An aspect of the project involves a slight realignment of Highway 97A to the north to accommodate the new trail and landscape buffer. The total construction cost is estimated at $3,779,010. KRCI LLC, known for expertise in heavy civil, highways, utilities, and site development, will carry out the construction. Funding comes from multiple sources: a substantial grant exceeding $2,500,000 from the Washington State Department of Transportation, a $500,000 contribution from the Transportation Improvement Board, approximately $250,000 from Link Transit, with the remainder covered by the City’s Street Fund.

Chelan’s local government encourages residents and stakeholders to reach out with questions or for further details through the City of Chelan Public Works Department, available at 509-682-8030 or via their website. The trail project is poised to enhance the quality of life in Chelan, a community that values its natural surroundings and strives for accessible, sustainable infrastructure developments.