Port advances Trades District Phase 2, eyes lower costs

WENATCHEE — The Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority is beginning the next phase of development at the Trades District, with commissioners authorizing staff to seek design proposals for a second round of construction — while signaling a desire to rein in costs after a first phase that has quickly become a community draw.

Commissioners on March 24 approved issuing a request for qualifications for architectural services on what is being referred to as Phase 2 of the project.

The move comes as the Port looks to build on the initial development, which has begun to take on a life of its own as a gathering space.

“I spent a little bit of time out there the last couple weekends, and it’s already developed into what we were thinking,” said Commissioner Alan Loebsack, describing the site as “a cool place” that is beginning to function as intended.

With a coffee shop, retail spaces and events at Cascadia Tap House drawing people in, commissioners said the early success of the district has helped validate the concept behind the project.

At the same time, they acknowledged that the cost of Phase 1 has prompted a more deliberate approach moving forward.

“We’ve got to figure out a different way to deliver phase two in a way that’s more cost effective,” said Commissioner JC Baldwin.

Unlike the first phase, which followed a defined design path, the second phase remains open-ended. Port staff said the selected architect will first be tasked with developing multiple concepts, including options that replicate the existing model at a smaller scale or take a different approach entirely.

The goal, commissioners said, is to balance cost control with maintaining a cohesive look and function across the site.

“We want citizens to say this is really well thought out,” Baldwin said, noting the importance of ensuring Phase 2 complements the existing buildings.

Some commissioners also raised questions about how to encourage more creativity in the design process, including whether to ask shortlisted firms to bring early concepts to interviews.

“I’ve seen before… you offer something so that you get those imaginative ideas on the front end,” said Commissioner Donn Etherington, suggesting the Port consider ways to draw out more detailed proposals earlier in the process.

Port staff said the design contract could approach $1 million, with the initial phase focused on evaluating site conditions, building types and cost scenarios before returning to the board for direction.

The project is supported in part by $4 million in funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which must be spent by Nov. 30, 2028.

Staff outlined a timeline that would have qualifications due in mid-April, with shortlisted firms invited to interviews later that month. Design work could begin this fall.

The motion to move forward with the request for qualifications passed unanimously.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media