Chelan PUD outlines plan for new Manson Bay Park breakwater

MANSON — Chelan County PUD commissioners heard an update on November 3 on plans to replace the aging breakwater that shields Manson Bay Park, a project aimed at protecting the community’s only public swimming beach and marina from wind-driven waves.

The $3 million replacement effort is funded through the district’s Public Power Benefit (PPB) program and coordinated with the Manson Parks and Recreation District. The PPB program dedicates a portion of surplus hydropower revenues — since our dams generate so much more power than we can actually consume — to projects that directly serve county residents.

PPB dollars have funded fiber-network expansions, trail improvements, park enhancements, and other community facilities. The program’s 2026 budget sets aside $6 million for these projects across Chelan County, including the Manson Bay Park breakwater.

Design work has been underway since spring, with environmental reviews and permitting expected to wrap up this winter. Construction is slated to begin in 2026 once all permits are in hand.

Engineering staff described the new breakwater as a stronger, more energy-dissipating structure designed to withstand heavier storms and protect nearby docks and shoreline amenities. Commissioners praised the collaborative approach with Manson Parks and local agencies, noting that the project supports both recreation and long-term stewardship of Lake Chelan.

“This is one of the most visible PPB projects in the valley,” General Manager Kirk Hudson said. “It’s a good example of how those dollars go right back into the community.”

During the same meeting, financial staff emphasized that PPB allocations are being tracked more transparently in this year’s budget, with $4.9 million earmarked for construction and another $1 million in contingency planning.

The current breakwater, installed in the early 1980s, has suffered years of damage from fluctuating lake levels and wind exposure. Repairs have kept it serviceable, but engineers told the board that ongoing maintenance no longer makes financial sense.

Final design and bid documents are expected to return to the board for approval later in 2025.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media