SPOKANE – Work to improve the Williams Lake Access Area in Spokane County could mean some inconvenience to users but will result in a better experience in the future. A limited season to complete work near water has contractor crews starting on a project this week. Work includes removing the existing, damaged boat ramp and replacing it with a new precast concrete plank ramp. An informal gravel ramp next to the concrete ramp will also be upgraded to a precast concrete plank ramp to accommodate more users.

Crews are also adding a boarding float between the two ramps to make launching boats easier. Other improvements include paving the parking area, adding ADA parking spaces, and replacing the existing toilets with a prefabricated ADA-accessible model.

"This work will make this access area much easier to use for boaters and more accessible to people with disabilities," said WDFW access area manager Dan Dziekan. "It's a full overhaul so, unfortunately the construction process requires some inconvenience and a temporary closure for members of the public. We're asking people to bear with it though because in the end they'll be able to enjoy a much nicer boating experience."

The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office is funding this $647,000 project through a Boating Facilities Program grant. Early signs of construction will be underway this week, but it will not disrupt access area usage. For public safety, and to give crews room to work, the access area will be closed from approximately Aug. 8 to the end of the fishing season.

While the access area is closed, Bunker’s Resort on the southwest side of the lake, allows the public to launch boats, for a fee, on a limited basis. People wishing to use Bunker’s launch are advised to call the resort first at 509-235-5212 to ensure the water level is sufficient for launching and that there is room to park a vehicle and trailer.

Williams Lake is a popular opening day (last Saturday in April to September 30) trout fishing lake in southern Spokane County. To find alternate angling and boating options the public can visit WDFWs water access areas web page.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.