Plese Flats To Receive Facelift From Wwp

A popular day-use and canoe landing area downriver from the Bowl and Pitcher will be getting a facelift as part of a project undertaken by the Washington Water Power Co.

The area known as Plese Flats is now a flat dirt protrusion into the Spokane River.

The area is victim to illegal dumping and camping, and its shore is eroding from dragged boats.

As part of its custodial obligations as a dam operator on the Spokane River, WWP is proposing restoration work, paving, security and development of Plese Flats. The company is seeking approval for a concrete boat launch for canoes and kayaks, picnic tables, a chemical toilet, 15 parking spaces and three areas for canoe trailers.

The area would also have a gate to make it easier for rangers at Riverside State Park to control nighttime use.

The project would cost $65,000. The utility company is seeking a shorelines development permit from the city of Spokane for the improvements.

If approval goes smoothly, the work could be completed by fall, said Sandy Mack, natural resources coordinator for WWP.

“As part of our responsibility for dams on the Spokane River, we do a lot of enhancement programs,” Mack said. “This is part of our stewardship of the river.”

Gary Herron, manager of Riverside State Park, said the Department of Fish and Wildlife will also be stocking that portion of the river with 5,000 rainbow trout. The improvements and the fish ought to go a long way toward attracting families looking for daytime activities.

“It will define the area, it will clean it up and provide security,” he said. “It will be a good addition to the park.”

Final public comments on the project are due at the City Planning Department by May 26.