Heller Bar boat launch improvement plans approved

WATERSPORTS — The Asotin County commissioners approved a shorelines conditional-use permit Monday for an expansion at the existing Heller Bar boat ramp on the Snake River south of Asotin.

A Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife plan would add an additional 20 feet on the north side of the boat ramp, said Karst Riggers, building official and county planner. A cost estimate for the state-funded project was not presented at the meeting.

According to the Lewiston Tribune, Commissioner Jim Fuller asked Riggers if the new design would affect rafters who also put in at the same spot.

Riggers said the upgrade will allow enough room for both rafters and power boaters.

“They just need to figure out how to get along, I guess,” Riggers said of the combined use.

Riggers said the whole expansion project is being designed to make it more comfortable for users to get in and out of the launch area.

Improvements to the parking area at Heller Bar will also be made, with new striping in parking spaces and signage, as well as a handicap parking spot.

The plans will go to the state for approval.