Riverwalk Park shoreline restoration and access improvements progressing

CHELAN - The Riverwalk Park project, which commenced on March 4, is progressing in restoring the shoreline and enhancing waterfront access points. 

The work is being carried out in three distinct locations: near the sewer lift station between W. Okanogan Ave. and W. Woodin Ave., from the wooden viewing area at S. 1st St. and W. Okanogan Ave. to the boardwalk west of Webster Ave., and across the parking lot at E. Farnham Ave. While temporary closures of the Riverwalk Trail are expected during construction, the project is slated for completion by late April, weather permitting.

One of the project's primary goals is to stabilize approximately 520 feet of riverbank using a combination of boulders, river cobble, native trees, and shrubs. This strategic approach aims to protect the area from further erosion, which has been a growing concern. "On the south shore especially, the bank has receded close to 20 feet, and that's valuable park land we will never get back," said Chelan PUD Parks Manager Ryan Baker, emphasizing the importance of this project.

In addition to shoreline restoration, the project also focuses on improving visitor park amenities. This includes the construction of safe and improved waterfront access points for stand-up paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks and the installation of new picnic tables and benches. A particularly exciting feature is the flat-rock staircase being built near the wooden viewing area at the end of First Street, which will lead directly into the water, providing a unique and accessible way for visitors to enjoy the river.

Pipkin crews are currently putting the finishing touches on the flat-rock staircase at site A, between W. Okanogan Ave. and W. Wooden Ave. Meanwhile, at site B, near the wooden viewing area, crews have installed split-rail fencing to protect the newly rehabilitated shoreline, encourage the establishment of native plantings, and guide visitors to use the improved waterfront access points once completed.

"We want to be good stewards of Riverwalk Park, and we'll try to keep any short-term impacts of this work to a minimum," assured Baker, acknowledging the popularity of the park among the community. "This is a well-loved park, and we want to thank the community for their patience."

As the project progresses, crews will focus on landscaping and paving the trail, enhancing the park's natural beauty and accessibility. Once completed, the Riverwalk Park project will become a shining example of the city's commitment to preserving its natural resources while providing top-notch recreational facilities for its residents and visitors.