Your trusted source for local Leavenworth, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Chelan County Commissioners reduced the speed limit on East Leavenworth Road from 35 mph to 25 mph due to safety concerns. The decision followed a speed study revealing that six of the nine recent accidents in the area were speed-related. Local residents expressed strong support for the change during a public hearing.
Defenseman Jackson Smith of the Tri-City Americans was selected 14th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2025 NHL Draft. Smith, who scored 54 points in 68 games last season, will join Penn State for NCAA hockey after attending the Jackets' development camp. He becomes the 15th American to be chosen in the first round of the draft.
Stevens Pass Bike Park opened for the season on June 28, providing exclusive access to passholders a day earlier. The park features downhill bike trails, scenic chairlift rides, and hiking opportunities along the Pacific Crest Trail. Visitors can also enjoy disc golf and food services throughout the summer.
Chelan County Sheriff’s Office rescued a 32-year-old woman who injured her shoulder while hiking in the Enchantments on June 20. A helicopter transported her to Leavenworth Fish Hatchery for medical care. The Washington Trails Association emphasizes the importance of preparation and safety for hikers in challenging terrains.
The Community Foundation of North Central Washington awarded $31,800 in grants to youth programs in Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties. Notable initiatives include the "Shop with a Cop" program, which received $10,300 to support children during the holidays. The foundation continues to accept grant applications every two months.
Fire officials in Chelan and Douglas counties urge residents to avoid personal fireworks this Fourth of July to prevent wildfires. With dry conditions persisting, they recommend attending public displays instead. Violating fireworks bans can lead to fines or jail time, stressing community safety.
State Superintendent Chris Reykdal announced funding for Washington's Imagination Library for another year, despite a $12 billion budget shortfall. The program, which provides free books to children from birth to age five, currently serves 120,000 kids statewide. Reykdal emphasized the need for continued early learning support and plans to advocate for permanent funding.
Chelan County seeks nominations for Purple Heart recipients to be inducted into the 2025 Hall of Honor, honoring military service members wounded or killed in action. Nominations are open until July 18, and inductees will be celebrated at a community event on August 7.
NCW Tech Alliance launched the 2025 Digital Access Commitments Campaign to enhance digital access across six regions. This initiative aims to bridge the digital divide in collaboration with the NCW Digital Access Coalition.
The NCW Tech Alliance launched the “AI Use Case Showdown,” a regional pitch competition featuring $5,000 in prizes for showcasing practical applications of artificial intelligence. The competition invites participants from various sectors to present their AI solutions live during the 2025 AI Expo in Wenatchee, with the application deadline set for July 15.