Bridge Street Substation

Planning to Power - all the way to 2075

Substations are an integral part of Chelan PUD’s electrical power system, bringing together generation, transmission, and distribution. In alignment with the long-range vision of Imagine 2075, the Substation Program provides a strategic framework for proactively improving and expanding substation infrastructure. The PUD's Substation Program ensures we can continue delivering safe, reliable power to meet the evolving needs of Chelan County. 

Background

When an existing substation is consistently reaching 80% capacity, it triggers the PUD to begin looking into the need for a new substation. The PUD refers to this as an 80/20 Model and it initiates the process of identifying a location for a new substation and the associated transmission and distribution lines, in order to continue resilient and reliable service.

The current Wenatchee Substation on Worthen Street is nearing capacity. Chelan PUD is planning to build an additional substation in the South Wenatchee area to ensure reliable electrical service to both residential and commercial customers. This new substation will help redistribute electrical load, accommodate future growth, and ensure maintenance of the existing facility. Chelan PUD Commissioners voted to purchase property at 825 S. Columbia Avenue for the future substation, which will be called the Bridge Street Substation. The Bridge Street Substation is expected to be constructed in the next 3-5 years.

What's Happening Now?

• Hazardous materials abatement is underway in the existing buildings to prepare for demolition.
• Building demolition is scheduled for late 2025, pending City demolition permits.
• Overhead utilities (power and communication) will be relocated before demolition takes place.
• Conditional Use Permit application has been submitted to the City of Wenatchee. We are coordinating closely with the City’s Bridge Street Improvement project, including landscaping.
• Your input matters. Neighbors will have an opportunity to provide comments directly to the City on the permit application. You are also welcome to contact us anytime at customeroutreach@chelanpud.org.