Manson Community Council advocates for roundabout to improve traffic safety

Manson Community Council chair Mike Kirk presents transportation proposal before the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council, July 10.

In an ongoing effort to enhance public safety and improve traffic flow into and out of Manson, the Manson Community Council was invited to present to the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council (CDTC) on Thursday.

Council members Mike Kirk, Gerry Ustanik, Rene Commons, Jeff Conwell, and Dom Amor all attended the meeting at the Confluence TechnologyCenter in Wenatchee, representing the Manson community and advocating for proactive transportation planning.

Mike Kirk, Chair of the Manson Community Council, shared an aerial map of the intersection at Wapato Lake Road and State Route 150, highlighting the significant traffic congestion experienced by both residents and visitors. He pointed to the volume of traffic heading to and from the 12 Tribes Lake Chelan Casino, Deepwater Fuels, and the Mill Bay Boat Launch as key reasons for the CDTC to consider a roundabout at the intersection.

Mill Bay Boat Launch alone had 1,712 vehicles enter and exit the park in April. That number increase to 2,193 vehicles in May and 3,902 in June.

CDTC Board Chair and Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Regional Administrator Chris Keifenheim noted that the current number of traffic incidents—13 in the past 10 years—is not sufficient to justify WSDOT funding at this time.

Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle, also a CDTC board member, emphasized the need to take a broader look at traffic patterns throughout the Lake Chelan Valley. She cited increasing tourist-season congestion, the upcoming expansion of the 12 Tribes Casino, and overall transportation needs in and out of the valley as important factors to consider.

Manson Community Council member Dom Amor added that the council is working collaboratively with the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, Link Transit, Chelan County PUD, Chelan County Commissioners, and state legislators to build momentum and support for the project.

While WSDOT prioritizes safety statistics when considering new projects, other agencies often evaluate traffic volume and anticipated growth, which may strengthen the case for a roundabout at this busy intersection.

Former State Senator of the 12th Legislative District and now Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins, who was also in attendance, met separately with the Manson Community Council to pledge his support to the council and the Manson Community.