City of Chelan preps parks, projects for summer

CHELAN — With the summer tourism season fast approaching, the City of Chelan is reminding residents and visitors to adhere to updated park regulations while preparing for several infrastructure projects aimed at improving public spaces and transportation.

“These updates help maintain a welcoming and enjoyable experience at Don Morse Park and Lakeside Park, two of Chelan’s most visited outdoor spaces,” said Parks Director Paul Horne. “By keeping our parks clean, safe, and family-friendly, we’re ensuring that both locals and visitors can enjoy everything Chelan has to offer.”

Key rules for all city parks include operating hours from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., restrictions on tent structures, and limitations on cooking equipment. Only shade structures without bottoms and no more than two sides—no larger than 10-by-10 feet—are permitted. Fires must be confined to city-provided charcoal grills; personal BBQs and fire pits are prohibited. Alcohol is banned in city parks except at designated areas in the Lakeshore RV Park and the Lake Chelan Municipal Golf Course.

Pet restrictions are also in place. Dogs are not allowed in Don Morse Park, Lakeside Park, or other city parks from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Leashed dogs remain welcome year-round at Chelan County PUD’s Riverwalk Park.

To reinforce compliance, the city will expand enforcement efforts in partnership with the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office and private security. Increased patrols, both on foot and on the water, are planned, and new signage will help communicate the regulations, which were recently updated by the Chelan City Council following months of public engagement.

In addition to park policy enforcement, the city will begin construction on two major infrastructure projects this summer. A 1.05-mile shared-use path known as the Lakeside Trail will connect Downtown Chelan with the Lakeside neighborhood via Water Street. The project includes landscaping improvements, stormwater management, public transit enhancements, and safer pedestrian crossings.

Downtown Chelan will also undergo upgrades to critical water and sewer systems to address aging infrastructure and increase capacity. The city warned that construction may result in road work and traffic delays on Highway 97A and Columbia Avenue.

To stay informed of updates and potential traffic impacts, the City encourages the public to visit its website at cityofchelan.us or text “ChelanSummer” to 38276 for real-time alerts.