Chelan’s Lakeside Park to close for $1.2 million renovation

CHELAN — Lakeside Park, one of Chelan’s most popular waterfront destinations, will undergo a major renovation beginning in September, city officials announced Friday.

The $1.2 million project will upgrade restrooms, playgrounds, walkways, and the swimming beach, with the goal of improving accessibility and safety while preserving the park’s natural character.

Located at 2230 Terrace Avenue, the park has long served as a gathering spot for families, swimmers, and boaters. Construction will begin after Labor Day, with the park scheduled to close on or after Sept. 2. Work is expected to be completed by late spring 2026.

“These renovations will transform Lakeside Park into a safer, more accessible space that honors its historic role as a family-oriented haven while adapting to modern needs,” said Paul Horne, Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Director. “We’re grateful for the community’s patience and excited about the positive impact this project will have on both residents and visitors”.

Planned improvements include doubling restroom stall capacity, installing ADA-compliant facilities, adding outdoor handwashing sinks, and eliminating the need for portable toilets. The project also calls for new playground equipment, ADA-compliant walkways, beach and swim area upgrades including a replacement T-dock, and mitigation landscaping with additional lighting.

The work will be funded through a federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant administered by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office, matched by city funds. Many of the changes were shaped by community feedback from workshops, surveys, and planning efforts.

While Lakeside Park is closed, the city is encouraging residents and visitors to use Don Morse Memorial Park and other local parks that offer similar amenities.

For updates, the city has set up a project webpage at cityofchelan.us/lakesidepark.