Conklin RV Park opens to accommodate Salmon Derby anglers

BRIDGEPORT – Council members voted to approve a “soft” opening of the newly completed 17-space Conklin RV Park during their regular monthly meeting on July 17. The city had postponed an earlier opening to allow the new landscaping to become established. They decided to begin allowing campers to occupy spaces last Saturday, July 20, to accommodate fishermen in need of facilities while they participate in the upcoming Brewster Salmon Derby on August 2-4.

The official opening and ribbon cutting for Conklin RV park is scheduled for 11 a.m., Saturday, August 3.

In other council business the city proceeded with steps to exchange property parcels with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) that will allow the city to construct a second water reservoir near the first one.

City engineers Erlandsen & Associates were hired to complete a topographic survey of the proposed reservoir to ensure that it met the elevation and other requirements needed. That done the next step is to secure appraisals on both the property the city is acquiring, and the property being exchanged with WDFW. The agency will select three appraisal firms from which the city can make its choice. The city will pick up the costs of both appraisals.

Karen Francis-McWhite, Executive Director of the North Central Washington Economic Development District (NCWEDD) was the council’s guest speaker. NCWEDD is federally designated agency serving Okanogan, Douglas, and Chelan counties and the Colville Confederated Tribes in the NCW region.

Francis-McWhite introduced NCWEDD and explained its role in assisting communities like Bridgeport to promote diversification and development of existing and potential economic opportunities that enhance the stability and future of the NCW region. NCWEDD can help with support and funding for both economic and infrastructure projects.