Shaping the future of transportation and safety in unincorporated Chelan County

CHELAN COUNTY — Chelan County is updating its Transportation Element and Safety Action Plan, and they want to hear from residents in the Cashmere and Peshastin areas. This is a crucial opportunity for community members to shape future road safety, transportation infrastructure, and long-term priorities. Feedback gathered will directly influence the county's plans, which guide development through 2046.

The Transportation Element, part of the broader Comprehensive Plan, focuses on all modes of movement within the region—from cars and bikes to pedestrians and agricultural vehicles. Chelan County Public Works emphasizes the importance of local voices. They need to hear from people who live and work in unincorporated Chelan County. Whether you're worried about narrow shoulders, missing sidewalks, or accident-prone intersections, your feedback helps planners prioritize improvements.

Funded by a federal Safe Streets for All grant, the Safety Action Plan uses data and community input to pinpoint high-risk areas and propose solutions to reduce accidents. Early priorities identified for the Cashmere and Peshastin areas include:

• Improving drainage and sightlines on narrow canyon roads
• Addressing curves prone to accidents due to runoff and weather
• Enhancing safety for children walking or biking to school
• Supporting vital trucking routes for the agricultural economy

How you can participate:

Residents have until mid-September to provide their input. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Via the online survey: Complete the survey at https://app.maptionnaire.com/q/chelansafety. It takes less than 10 minutes and includes a map for marking specific concerns.
• Community Outreach: Look for Public Works staff at farmers markets, school events, and other community gatherings, including the Chelan County Fair, throughout August and early September. They will be distributing paper surveys and answering questions.
• Open House: Attend an open house on Tuesday, August 20, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Manson Grange Hall. All county residents are encouraged to attend.
• Stakeholder Interviews: If you represent a local group or possess specialized knowledge, you can request a stakeholder interview.

This planning process ensures that smaller communities like Cashmere and Peshastin get the necessary attention and funding for safety and transportation improvements. County staff highlight that increased participation from rural residents will lead to more targeted and effective final plans.

For more information or to get involved, visit co.chelan.wa.us/public-works or call Chelan County Public Works at (509) 667-6415.

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