News

PUD Parks are for Everyone! Chelan PUD will start work this month on a series of improvements along the Apple Capital Loop Trail between the railway area and Ninth Street. The utility is also planning substantial improvements at Walla Walla Point Park. It’s all part of the PUD’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the community.

The work is being planned to minimize trail impacts and keep visitors safe in the parks. Starting in September after Labor Day, the PUD will periodically create detours when needed. For now, there is construction and trail flagging in the Train Depot Plaza to keep pedestrians and cyclists safe. Please stay in designated areas and follow all signs.

The improvements will be made in phases starting this month, with expected completion prior to Memorial Day 2025.

Apple Capital Loop Trail Improvements:

• In an effort to improve safety and enhance the park experience, the PUD is improving the Apple Capital Loop Trail between Ninth Street and the Train Depot Plaza. The trail will split in several areas to allow separate “safe spaces” for various recreation, such as pedestrians and non-motorized bikes/vehicles. Other areas will see widened trails. These improvements will enhance trail use and safety in congested areas.
• A new splash pad – with a Columbia River steamboat theme – will be added to the area at the end of Fifth Street, directly south of the existing bathroom.
• An apple-themed children’s play area and bathroom will be constructed near the Train Depot Plaza.
• A grand pavilion with picnic seating will be constructed north of the splash pad.
• Part of the trail behind Riverside 9 apartments will be leveled and widened for speed control and safety.Access to the river in this location will remain as it currently is.
• Some public art will be relocated to other sections of the park to fit with the new improvements.All art will remain onsite.
• Visitors will see landscaping improvements and a few trees removed.Landscaping will include trees, shrubs and flowers of native habitat.

   

  Walla Walla Point Park Improvements:

• The PUD will add a new, full court basketball area for tournament play to replace the previous courts that were located in the tennis and pickleball area.
• Grading work around the courts will alleviate water runoff issues.
• A trail will be added with ADA access from the south parking lot.
• The north end parking lot will be fortified, restored, and resurfaced with asphalt.
• Other additions will include a new drinking fountain for the basketball court and lighting conduit for potential lights in the future.