Brewster study expands Columbia Cove RV parking

BREWSTER – A concept rendering of expanded RV parking at Columbia Cove was unveiled by Public Works Director Lee Webster at last Wednesday’s regular monthly meeting of the city council on Sept. 19.

The site under study between Brewster High School and the north end of the Cove Park is currently a planted orchard. It comprises about 13 acres and would provide 65 spaces of various sizes.

“The PUD has set that aside with Brewster/mitigation in mind,” said Mayor Art Smyth. 

The mayor explained that the PUD’s  50-year relicensing plan with Wells Dam includes property up and down the river that must be repurposed for public use.

“A requirement of their license is to provide access to the reservoir and recreational opportunities,” Webster said.

In addition to RV and boat/trailer spaces, the ambitious plan, which is still under development, features amenities including:

• Kayak trailer parking
• Non-motorized boat launch
• Non-motorized protected marina
• Non-motorized watercraft slips
• Picnic shelter
• Grass play area
• Grass tent area
• Band shell
• Off-leash dog area
• For-rent private beach

In response to a councilmember question asking if there would be enough demand to justify the expansion, Webster replied:

“We could add 100 more (spaces) and not meet the peak demand.”

The design is about 80 percent complete, so council members have the opportunity to submit any suggestions or changes they have in mind. 

Mike Maltais: 360-333-8483 or michael@ward.media