Much-needed improvements will close the Wenatchee ramp starting Sept. 30
Information and photo released by Chelan County PUD
Boaters love the convenience of launching at Wenatchee Riverfront Park. That’s why Chelan PUD is letting the community know now that the popular boat launch behind Pybus Public Market is getting a much-needed upgrade this fall – and will close Sept. 30 for seven weeks.
There is just a short time each fall when Chelan PUD can do work in the Columbia River, said Ryan Baker, Parks manager.
“We wanted to get the word out now so boaters can plan for using other nearby launches during the work,” Baker said. “We understand that fall is a great time for being on the river, and we appreciate the community’s patience during this work to improve the launch.”
For safety, the parking lot at the launch will close, too. Contractor KRCI of Wenatchee will use the lot to stage materials and park big equipment. The work will cost about $602,000
The work includes a new fish-friendly dock, rebuilding and extending the eroded launch ramp and removing sediment from the boat basin so the launch is accessible at lower river levels. A gangway will connect the new dock to the ramp. The dock design and materials allow more light into the water to reduce the opportunity for predator fish to hide in the shadows.
During the closure, boaters can use the free launch at Kirby Billingsley Hydro Park, just south of East Wenatchee, or pay to launch at Confluence State Park.
Plans are to reopen the Riverfront Park boat launch by mid-November.
