WSDOT plans shared-use path along U.S. 97A south of Chelan

CHELAN — A stretch of U.S. 97A just south of Chelan is slated for safety and access improvements, with state transportation officials planning to extend a growing shared-use path along the corridor.

The Washington State Department of Transportation project will focus on the section of highway between State Route 971, also known as South Lakeshore Road, and Johnson Place. Construction is currently scheduled for fall 2026 or spring 2027.

Plans call for a 10-foot-wide shared-use path to be built along the north side of the highway, within the existing pavement width. The addition is designed to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists while maintaining the current roadway footprint.

The new segment will connect with a recently completed path running between Lakeside Park and the Woodin Avenue Bridge along the south shore of Lake Chelan, effectively extending that route farther west toward the SR 971 junction.

State officials say the goal is to provide safer multimodal travel through a stretch of highway that links residential areas, recreation sites, and key access points along the lake. The corridor has long presented challenges for non-motorized users, with higher vehicle speeds and limited shoulder space.

Additional details, including design updates and opportunities for public input, are available through WSDOT’s project page.

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