WE-Bike returns with more funding and an easier application process
OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Transportation is relaunching the state’s WE-Bike e-bike rebate program on March 30 to help even more travelers get rolling with active transportation.
People living in Washington ages 16 and up may apply for rebates any time between March 30, 2026, and March 29, 2027, through an upcoming application portal. The program will randomly select applicants monthly starting April 13. Applicants only need to submit one application to be considered for the monthly selections.
Rebates alone will likely not fully cover e-bike purchases. Recipients can reduce the overall cost of e-bike purchases at participating bike shops by $300 or $1,200, depending on income eligibility. They can put rebates toward qualifying models of all three classes of e-bike.
Successful WE-Bike launch in 2025
This second, longer WE-Bike rebate application round builds on the success of the 2025 pilot program.
Feedback from the pilot round confirmed rebates motivated people to buy e-bikes they couldn’t or wouldn’t have otherwise, especially people in lower-income households. Nearly half of rebate recipients surveyed said they used e-bikes to travel to new destinations. In all, WE-Bike offered 6,861 out of 37,751 applicants from all 39 Washington counties the opportunity to use rebates.
The Washington State Legislature first funded the WE-Bike program with $5 million in the 2023-2025 biennium to make e-bikes more affordable for people living in the state. In its 2025-2026 session, the Legislature renewed the program while increasing funding, appropriating $7 million for WE-Bike to spend in the 2025-2027 biennium.
"We’re proud to deliver the WE-Bike program and excited for communities statewide to benefit from it,” said Kerri Woehler, WSDOT assistant secretary for Multimodal Development and Delivery. “WSDOT is building a transportation system that works just as well for people driving as it does for people walking, biking and rolling. As we expand Washington’s network of bike routes, WE-Bike makes it possible for more neighbors to take advantage of a convenient, healthy form of transportation.”
WSDOT and its contractor will finalize program logistics over the next few weeks. This includes training staff at participating bike shops statewide on handling rebates and educating consumers, preparing customer service staff to guide people through the application process and more.
WSDOT will share more information about the program launch soon through the Active Transportation Division’s Walk & Roll Newsletter, a dedicated e-bike program listserv and the agency's program webpage.
Indecent Exposure, Criminal Trespass Arrest Made:
On 3/17/26, Chelan County Deputies were dispatched to a Lewd Conduct call in the area of E. Trow Ave. and S. Navarre St. in Chelan WA. The juvenile victims alleged that an adult male had exposed himself to the juveniles while sitting in his vehicle. The victims provided a description of the adult male and his vehicle.
Through a follow-up investigation by deputies, the suspect’s vehicle was located in the 300 block of Woodin Ave. in Chelan. The male suspect was known to deputies through past contacts and was identified as, Isai I. Suarez-Sanchez, a 23 year old male from Chelan, WA.
Isai was known to live in a nearby residence to where the vehicle was parked.
Probable cause existed to arrest Isai and contact was made with him at his residence and he was taken into custody.
Isai was transported and booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center for violations of Indecent Exposure to a person under 14 years of age and for Criminal Trespass 2nd degree.
Spring is right around the corner and that means it’s time to get ready for one of Manson’s most exciting spring sporting events - Shake & Bake on the Lake Pickleball Tournament!
Players from across the region will gather for a weekend of great competition, fun, and community on the courts. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just love the thrill of tournament play this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy pickleball in the stunning Lake Chelan Valley.
Early Registration Ends March 15th
Now is the perfect time to secure your spot and take advantage of early registration before prices increase.
Tournament Highlights
• Competitive divisions for multiple skill levels
• Prize money opportunities
• Play at the scenic Wapato Point courts on the north shore of Lake Chelan
• A fun and welcoming atmosphere for players and spectators
Grab your partner, register your team, and get ready to have fun out on the courts! We can’t wait to see you in Manson for a fantastic weekend of pickleball, sunshine, and community!
On March 7, 2026, at approximately 1506 hrs, emergency responders were dispatched to the Tripp Canyon area after receiving a 911 call regarding a medical emergency involving a dirt bike rider on a steep hillside.
A 42-year-old Monitor man had been riding dirt bikes in the area with his sons. While assisting his 14-year-old son in repositioning a bike on the hillside, the man reportedly became dizzy and fell. According to his son, he briefly lost consciousness before regaining awareness. The teen immediately called 911 and was able to direct rescuers to their location.
Responders determined the pair were approximately 300 feet up a very steep hillside, creating challenging access conditions for emergency personnel. Medics on scene evaluated the patient and determined he was likely experiencing a heart-related medical issue.
Due to the difficult terrain, the deputy on scene, Deputy McLeod, requested assistance from regional rope rescue teams (Wenatchee Valley Fire and Chelan County Sheriff’s Office). Fire personnel responded and worked alongside ambulance crews (Ballard Ambulance) and additional fire resources (Cashmere Fire) to safely lower the patient down the hillside. Once at the base, he was transported by UTV to a waiting ambulance and then taken to Central Washington Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
This incident highlights the professionalism and coordination between multiple emergency response agencies. Through teamwork and effective communication, responders were able to safely reach the patient and ensure he received prompt medical care. The Sheriff’s Office would also like to recognize the quick actions of the man’s son, whose calm response and clear directions to dispatch helped responders locate the scene quickly.
This rescue serves as a strong example of cooperating agencies working together to benefit and protect the citizens they serve.
Regular Board Meeting: March 12, 2026 at 4:00pm
Bumgarner Meeting Room, 142 Pedoi Street, Manson WA 98831
1. Call to Order
2. Flag salute
3. Agenda additions and deletions
4. Public comment
5. Review and approval of minutes (Action Item)
a. February 12, 2026 Regular Meeting
6. Financial review
a. Monthly financial report
b. Review and approval of monthly voucher (Action Item)
7. New business
a. 2028-2032 Comprehensive Plan
i. District project list
ii. PRA Grant application or planning committee
b. Resolution 2026-02 and Cooperative Facility Use agreement (Action Items)
c. Basin Tree Service approval (Action Item)
8. Old business
a. PDC reminder
a. Aquatics program updates
b. Chelanathon
c. Project updates:
i. Old Swim Hole redevelopment
ii. Leffler Field
iii. Manson Bay Marina breakwater
iv. Old Mill T-dock replacement
v. Old Mill Irrigation
9. Director’s Report
10. Adjournment
Next Regular Meeting: 4:00pm on April 9, 2026 at 142 Pedoi Street, Manson WA, 98831.
Case #26D00913
On March 8, 2026, at approximately 1:47 a.m., Douglas County Deputies were dispatched to a reported weapons violation in the 400 block of SR 173 in Bridgeport Bar, WA. Initial reports indicated that an unknown suspect(s) was shooting at a residence. Witnesses reported multiple gunshots being fired from a pickup truck that fled the area prior to deputies' arrival. Deputies arrived to find no injuries; however, over 60 various calibers of handgun shell casings were recovered outside the residence, which had sustained several bullet strikes.
Case #26D00914 & 26D00920
While deputies were processing the scene, an assist-agency complaint was received at approximately 1:56 a.m. regarding a vehicle fire outside the Bridgeport Quick-Mart at 2606 Foster Creek Avenue. The reporting party advised that a pickup truck was on fire. Deputies, along with Bridgeport Fire and EMS personnel, arrived to find the vehicle fully engulfed and ultimately a total loss. While on scene, deputies learned the truck had been reported stolen from the Bridgeport area. Information gathered at the shooting scene allowed deputies to determine that the burned vehicle matched the description of the suspect vehicle involved in the earlier incident. Once the fire was extinguished, the vehicle was impounded pending the issuance of a search warrant. No injuries were reported.
Case #26D00918
At approximately 4:32 a.m., deputies responded to a second weapons violation in the 100 block of Fir Avenue in Bridgeport Bar. The reporting party stated that multiple gunshots had been fired at a residence, striking the home several times. One round entered a child’s bedroom while a child was present. No injuries were reported. Deputies located over 10 handgun shell casings outside the residence.
All three incidents, which are believed to be gang-related, are being investigated concurrently by Douglas County Detectives. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the assistance provided by the Brewster Police Department, Okanogan County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, RiverCom Dispatch, and Bridgeport Fire and EMS in managing these scenes.
Due to the violent nature of these crimes, we urge the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity by calling 911 immediately.
Detectives are also requesting the public’s assistance. Anyone with information or video surveillance footage that may help identify the suspect(s) involved is encouraged to contact the DCSO Tip Line.
DCSO Tip Line: 509-699-3283
Reference Case Numbers: 26D00913, 26D00914, 26D00918 & 26D00920
Travelers should expect long delays with the bridge reduced to a single lane in each direction
VANTAGE – Work to replace the Interstate 90 Vantage Bridge deck is underway for a third construction season. Traffic is reduced to a single lane in each direction around-the-clock, seven days a week with reduced speeds and a 9-foot-width restriction. All lanes will temporarily reopen during the following weekends: Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. Construction pauses each winter, with work expected to continue through 2028.
Prepare for summer travel season
Travelers will experience long delays as traffic volumes increase during the warmer months and during events at The Gorge Amphitheatre. Historically, the longest delays occur eastbound on Fridays and westbound on Sundays. To avoid congestion and longer travel times, alternate routes are encouraged. Drivers may choose to use detour routes up north near Wenatchee, or down south near the Tri-Cities to bypass the construction area. Due to limited road capacity, Vantage Highway is not a recommended detour.
All four lanes of the Vantage Bridge will be open during busy summer holidays:
On March 3, 2026, at approximately 2:08 a.m., Douglas County Deputies were dispatched to a reported gunshot incident in the 4000 block of 40th Circle NE in East Wenatchee, WA. The caller reported that a female family member had been shot in the neck and that the suspect—her boyfriend—had fled the scene in her Toyota 4Runner.
While responding, deputies observed a vehicle matching the description of the 4Runner traveling southbound on the Eastmont Extension at a high rate of speed. A deputy attempted to locate and catch up to the vehicle but lost sight of it near the intersection of Badger Mountain Road and the Eastmont Extension. The deputy continued to the original incident location.
While deputies were on scene, RiverCom Dispatch advised they had received an automatic crash alert in the area of Ski View Drive, near where the deputy had last seen the speeding vehicle. RiverCom also received a report of a burglary in progress in the same area, involving a male attempting to gain access to a residence. Deputies were provided with the suspect’s name and clothing description and learned he had stolen the victim’s vehicle. The victim was transported by ambulance to a local hospital with life‑threatening injuries, which were later determined to be stab wounds rather than gunshot wounds.
Multiple units responded to the Ski View Drive area and located the crashed vehicle, which was confirmed to be the victim’s stolen 4Runner. Containment was established, and Wenatchee Valley Fire personnel staged nearby, alerted deputies that they had observed a male matching the suspect’s description crossing a street and entering a ravine north of 19th Street NE.
Deputies contacted the suspect, identified as Mitchell Figueroa‑Ibarra, a 32‑year‑old Wenatchee resident. He was taken into custody without incident for Assault in the First Degree (Domestic Violence), Robbery in the First Degree (Domestic Violence), and Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Domestic Violence). He was transported to a local hospital for medical clearance due to his involvement in the earlier collision. After being medically cleared, he was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center. Detectives are continuing to follow up on additional leads, which may result in further charges.
The successful apprehension of this dangerous suspect was the result of coordinated efforts by emergency responders throughout the region. We are grateful for the assistance provided by theChelan County Sheriff’s Office, East Wenatchee Police Department, Wenatchee Police Department, Columbia River Drug Task Force, Washington State Patrol Crime Scene Response Team, RiverCom Dispatch, Wenatchee Valley Fire, Ballard Ambulance, and Lifeline Ambulance.
Beebe Bridge offers tennis and pickleball courts, as well as reservable kitchen shelters where visitors can host events and gatherings. Photo courtesy of Chelan PUD
Visitors can begin making their campsite and day-use shelter reservations on March 4
CHELAN — March 2, 2026 — Washington State Parks has officially taken over management of campground and day-use shelter bookings for Beebe Bridge State Park. This shift aims to streamline the reservation process and integrate the Chelan-area park into State Parks’ booking system.
Visitors can begin making their campsite and day-use shelter reservations on Wednesday, March 4 at 8 a.m. for the 2026 season, which runs from April 15 to Oct. 15. Reservations can be made online at washington.goingtocamp.com or by calling 1-888-CAMP-OUT.
Por favor llame al (888) 226-7688 para obtener asistencia en español con una operadora.
“For many years, Washington State Parks has managed several Chelan PUD parks well,” said Chelan PUD Parks Manager Ryan Baker. “It makes sense to add Beebe Bridge for better operational efficiency, as well as a better customer experience with a top-of-the-line reservation system, security patrols and State Park discounts.”
Campers will experience several benefits under the new system. For many, it will be a familiar experience — the shift provides a standardized, user-friendly reservation system many campers are already using when booking sites at more than 100 state parks across Washington.
The State Parks system also allows campers to book reservations up to nine months in advance of their stay, so guests can begin booking their Beebe Bridge sites for the 2027 season in July.
Additionally, the change will provide eligible Chelan PUD customers with access to State Parks benefits like its discount pass programs, including the:
Chelan PUD customers will also continue to receive free day-use access, including the boat launch, with their PUD parking passes.
Beebe Bridge Park is just five miles from Lake Chelan. Its 56 acres offer visitors shoreline access, a sandy beach and boat launch and 46 campsites for RVs and tents. For those looking for a little friendly competition, check out the tennis and pickleball courts or ball fields. You can also find a little peace along the river with a walk on the shoreline trail or a picnic near one of its reservable kitchen shelters.
Additional booking options available through State Parks
Finding the perfect campsite doesn’t have to be stressful – especially if you can be flexible about when you would like to visit.
If you are able to plan on the fly, check for same-day reservations. You might be able to reserve a spot after a last-minute cancellation. Campers can book same-day reservations until 2 p.m. on their intended day of arrival. First come, first served camping is still available for unreserved sites after 2:30 p.m.
Additionally, State Parks has a flexible booking dates feature in its reservations system. Rather than searching for exact dates, visitors can choose the flexible booking dates option and see when the sites you want are available up to four months in advance.
To use the flexible dates feature, visit the State Parks reservations website and choose "flexible dates.” Choose a time period, the park and add your group size and equipment. From there, you will be able to see the dates and sites available at your park of choice — making it easier to pick a spot without having to search through dates that may or may not work. Visitors can also add filters to accommodate specific needs.
For more information about State Parks, booking and activities, visit parks.wa.gov.
On January 24, 2026, at approximately 7:05 PM, Douglas County Deputies were dispatched to a drug complaint in the area of Crown Point Vista Road and SR 174. Initial reports indicated the reporting party stated they believed a homeowner in the area had a marijuana grow operation on their property, and the homeowner had made attempts to provide marijuana to their teenage child. Through continued investigative efforts, deputies learned that up to four different teenagers had been offered marijuana by the homeowner, and it was believed there was an illegal marijuana grow and distribution operation occurring.
Deputies determined the residence where the suspected marijuana grow and distribution incidents were occurring was located in the 1500 block of SR 174, Grand Coulee, WA. Furthermore, the suspect was identified as Jayson M. Lows, a 51-year-old male resident of Grand Coulee, WA. Deputies subsequently developed probable cause for Mr. Lows arrest and for the application of a search warrant for his residence.
On February 11, 2026, Douglas County Deputies executed a search warrant at the residence. Mr. Lows was placed under arrest without incident, and evidence relating to the marijuana grow operation was seized. Mr. Lows was subsequently transported and booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center for Distribution to Persons Under Age Eighteen – two counts, Manufacture, Deliver, or Possess with Intent to Manufacture or Deliver a Controlled Substance, and Cannabis Manufacture, Sale, Distribution without a License. A review of possible charges for a second individual was referred to the Douglas County Prosecutor’s Office.
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