SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — Spokane County Parks will close winter access to the west side of Bear Lake beginning February 5 due to increased vandalism, ending a year-round access experiment designed to help juveniles, seniors and people with disabilities.
The county had provided year-round access to the west side and new fishing piers this year as a pilot program targeting improved access for vulnerable populations.
“Due to an increase in vandalism, we are making the decision to close access to the west side until Park Season begins May 15th,” county parks officials stated.
The west side closure affects both parking and fishing pier access. Anglers can still use the east side parking lot and fishing piers, which remain open during winter months.
The decision represents a setback for accessibility efforts at the popular fishing destination. County parks officials encouraged community members to report suspicious or illegal activity to Crime Check.
The west side will reopen May 15 when the official park season begins.
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