Jeff Humphrey, Media Content Coordinator, 509.625.6308
Monday, August 12, 2019 at 3:01 p.m.
A waterfront launch for paddleboards, kayaks and canoes on the Spokane River has become a recreational hot spot this summer.
“It’s summertime in the 509. We’re out for a good paddle. It takes about an hour to get up to the brewery. Have a little bite to eat, paddle back. Good spot. City put this in a couple of years ago. It’s been great every summer,” said kayaker Tim Singlestar.
As paddle equipment has become more mainstream, Spokane area residents are crowding the ramp just below the Division Street Bridge almost every sunny afternoon.
“Well this is a great location along the river with lots of really still water for much of the summer and so this is a great place to increase access for our citizens right in this location,” explained Marlene Feist, City of Spokane Public Works Department.
The City has also authorized a vendor to rent boats, boards and paddles to people who want to take a spontaneous spin up the river.
“So we started operations here underneath the Division Street Bridge in 2016. We really pride ourselves in facilitating fun right? And, making it safe as we can for people, setting them up for success. Every rental includes a free lesson. It’s such a glorious place to paddle. And, it’s a funny spot for a launch right? Directly underneath this bridge. But you’re paddling through the Gonzaga campus and the WSU campus and just around that corner, and it’s just so peaceful and you can’t even believe you’re in downtown,” said Keith Quien of Fun Unlimited.
“The Spokane River gets a lot of flak, but that’s usually from the people who don’t play in it. The Spokane River is great. It’s a lifeline here. It’s awesome,” added Singlestar.
