Theme Park On Columbia Envisioned

A theme-park developer envisions a stern-wheeler, a marina and maybe a theme village on the Columbia River in Chelan County.

Roger Walters Sr., who developed the 1890s theme town of Silver Dollar City in Branson, Mo., pitched the idea to Port of Chelan County officials, community leaders and local politicians on Tuesday.

“We think it all exists here,” said Walters, who has been visiting his son and his family for the last 10 years in Wenatchee.

“We’re excited by the fact we believe we could be the catalyst to bring it all together. We think all the talent, help, history and natural resources are here.”

Walters said he will spend several days scouting sites in Wenatchee or Entiat and talking to local investors.

Chelan County Commissioner Tom Green declined to comment on the project but said he likes the idea of riverfront recreation development.

“It’s the kind of thing that enhances the area’s ability to improve itself and promote tourism,” he said.