Major improvements coming to Wenatchee's riverfront parks

WENATCHEE — The Chelan County Public Utility District (PUD) is poised to commence a series of significant upgrades to the Apple Capital Loop Trail and Walla Walla Point Park this month, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors in the community.

The widely used Apple Capital Loop Trail will undergo substantial improvements between Ninth Street and the Train Depot Plaza. The PUD intends to establish designated zones for various recreational activities by dividing the trail into several sections, creating separate "safe spaces" for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles, including bicycles. The trail will also be widened in high-traffic areas to enhance safety and ease of use.

Among the new additions along the trail will be a splash pad featuring a Columbia River steamboat theme, situated at the end of Fifth Street, adjacent to the existing bathroom facility. A children's play area with an apple theme and a new bathroom will also be built near the Train Depot Plaza. Park visitors will have the opportunity to relax in a new grand pavilion with picnic seating, located north of the splash pad.

To improve safety and manage speeds, the PUD will level and widen a portion of the trail behind the Riverside 9 apartments, while maintaining the current river access at this location. The project will also necessitate the relocation of some public art installations within the park to accommodate the improvements, though all art pieces will be retained onsite. Landscaping enhancements, including the introduction of native trees, shrubs, and flowers, will be implemented, requiring the removal of a few trees.

At Walla Walla Point Park, the PUD will construct a new full-sized basketball court suitable for tournament play, replacing the previous courts situated in the tennis and pickleball area. Grading work around the courts will be undertaken to address water runoff issues. The south parking lot will benefit from the addition of a new trail with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access, while the north end parking lot will be fortified, restored, and resurfaced with asphalt. Furthermore, the park will witness the installation of a new drinking fountain near the basketball court and the placement of conduit for potential future lighting needs.

The PUD has developed a phased plan for the improvement projects, with work set to begin this month and targeted for completion prior to Memorial Day 2025. Park visitors should anticipate periodic trail detours after Labor Day, as the utility strives to minimize disruptions and prioritize public safety throughout the construction process.

The enhancements to the Apple Capital Loop Trail and Walla Walla Point Park are anticipated to deliver enduring benefits to the community, encouraging healthy lifestyles and elevating the overall experience for park patrons. The Chelan County PUD remains dedicated to creating secure, accessible, and enjoyable public spaces for all to appreciate.