Leavenworth has seen significant improvements in public transportation and environmental initiatives, as highlighted in a recent government meeting. The introduction of Sunday service in 2020 marked a pivotal moment for local transit, with strong ridership reported. Enhancements to Route 22, which connects Leavenworth to Wenatchee, include added trips and express services, making travel as efficient as driving a car. The DART service, offering same-day rides within a designated zone, has also expanded its availability to seven days a week.
Link Transit reported over one million fixed-route boardings in 2023, with projections of 1.2 million for the current year. The agency is also focusing on sustainability, with a growing fleet of battery electric buses—23 currently in operation and an additional 14 expected within the next 18 months.
In addition to transportation, discussions included wildfire crisis strategies and community engagement in environmental stewardship. The Chelan Douglas Land Trust and local nonprofits are collaborating on land acquisitions and sustainability efforts, addressing the increasing waste challenges due to tourism and population growth.
Fire safety was another key topic, with local fire officials emphasizing community risk reduction programs and the importance of maintaining access to new developments as density increases. The Chumpstick Wildfire Stewardship Coalition is actively promoting fire safety education and neighborhood networks to enhance community preparedness.
The meeting also featured representatives from various organizations focused on outdoor recreation, energy sustainability, and environmental education, reflecting a community-wide commitment to improving quality of life and preserving natural resources.