
The platform, which is approximately 50 feet long and 11 feet wide, includes three lower handrail spots designed to make fishing more accessible for persons using wheelchairs or similar mobility devices
VANCOUVER – The Parks division of Clark County Public Works recently announced the completion of a new ADA-compliant accessible fishing platform on the North Fork Lewis River at Haapa Boat Launch. The platform, which is approximately 50 feet long and 11 feet wide, includes three lower handrail spots designed to make fishing more accessible for persons using wheelchairs or similar mobility devices. The project was fully funded by PacifiCorp, which owns and operates the dams on the North Fork.
“Lewis River fishers have been patiently waiting for the accessible platform to be completed and are excited to test out this new amenity at Haapa Boat Launch. The fishing platform is unique for this area; it offers public access to the river and is only a few hundred feet from a parking lot. It will be a great asset for the community at large,’’ says Evelyn Ives, Parks Capital Project Manager.
“The completion of the ADA-accessible fishing platform not only enhances accessibility for individuals with disabilities, but also strengthens our community’s connection to nature, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the serenity of the outdoors,’’ said Will Shallenberger, vice president of renewable resources at Pacific Power.
“It marks a significant milestone in a commitment to creating inclusive spaces for all,” said Shallenberger.
Haapa Boat Launch is open daily from 7 a.m. to dusk. Visitors recreating on or near the water are strongly encouraged to wear life jackets and take additional precautions during high, fast and cold winter flows.
For information about road and park projects, closures, opportunities for community input, and more, residents can follow Public Works on X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook and Instagram and view information on Nextdoor.
Go to clark.wa.gov/public-works/news to read this information in another language. Click the button in the top right of the page that says “Change language’’ next to a globe icon and choose your preferred language.
Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.
Also read:
- White House govt. Funding request for 2027 cuts $73 billionPresident Trump’s budget seeks to boost defense funding while cutting $73 billion from agencies like the EPA, NASA, and Agriculture, prompting sharp criticism from Democratic leaders.
- Heywood asks WA Supreme Court to allow referendum effort on income taxBrian Heywood is petitioning the state Supreme Court after the Secretary of State rejected a referendum to repeal Washington’s new 9.9% tax on income over $1 million.
- Opinion: Half the road, full stop – Understanding pedestrian right-of-wayDoug Dahl explains how Washington’s law requires drivers to stop when a pedestrian is within one lane of their half of the road, not just when directly in front.
- Clark County seeks volunteer for Law and Justice CouncilApplicants with experience in mental health services are encouraged to help guide Clark County’s coordination of local criminal justice and corrections planning.
- VIDEO: Families at center of WA transgender sports debate face-to-face with OSPITwo Washington high school students and their parents met with Superintendent Chris Reykdal to discuss concerns about sports policies after one student faced an investigation for harassment.
- As Washington lawmakers punt on school cellphone ban, some want more actionAt Robert Eagle Staff Middle School, all-day phone removal led to fewer conflicts and more student engagement, but some parents and lawmakers argue a ban should not be imposed statewide.
- Opinion: The state’s RFK-proofing bill comes with a costMandates like HB 2242 can lead to higher premiums as insurance companies absorb costs for new preventive services, affecting affordability statewide.








