Crescent Bar Island information

Background

Grant PUD operates the Crescent Bar Recreation Area as part of its license to manage the Priest Rapids Hydroelectric Project, issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The area is managed under the Recreation Resources Management Plan and includes: 
  • Two boat launches 
  • A 55-site full hook-up campground 
  • Two large day-use parks 
  • Other amenities completed in 2018 
  • A 46-acre, 9-hole golf course 

What’s Happening? 

Grant PUD is evaluating future options for the Crescent Bar Golf Course as part of its ongoing recreation planning and per direction from Grant PUD’s Board of Commissioners. This includes evaluating four conceptual alternatives – one focused on retaining the golf course, and three exploring other potential uses of the 46-acre site – that aim to balance public benefit, environmental stewardship, and financial sustainability. 

Why Is It Happening?

In May 2024, the Grant PUD Commission directed staff to evaluate reprogramming options for the Crescent Bar Golf Course. This directive was issued in response to several key considerations: 
  • The need for significant upgrades to maintain the golf course as a viable recreational amenity. 
  • A desire to reduce financial risks to Grant PUD and its utility customers. 
  • A commitment to maximize public benefit for those who recreate in the Crescent Bar area. 
  • The importance of responsible stewardship of public lands and resources. 
  • The goal of aligning recreation planning with long-term sustainability and community needs. 
park

Frequently Asked Questions:

No decision has been made. Grant PUD is evaluating options which will be reviewed for feasibility, public benefit, cost and environmental impact. Public input from surveys collected from summer 2025 will support decision–making. 

Four conceptual designs are being developed—one to retain the golf course and three to explore other potential uses. Survey feedback will be used to help develop preferred alternatives.  

  1. Concept Development: Grant PUD selected Pacific Engineering to develop four concepts – one to retain the golf course, and three to explore other potential uses. 
  2. Stakeholder Engagement: Survey data was collected from June-August 2025. Survey results will be used to help refine preferred alternatives and support decision making. 
  3. Decision & Implementation: Concepts will be reviewed for feasibility, public benefit, cost, and environmental impact. If the Grant PUD Commission directs staff to move forward with proposing alternative use for the golf course, the proposal will be formally submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as part of the 2027 update to Grant PUD’s Recreation Resources Management Plan. FERC will decide to approve, approve with conditions, or deny the proposal. Stakeholder and public engagement will be part of the FERC process.   

The Commission’s decision will be made early 2026.

How can I stay informed?
Learn more by visiting the communities tab on 509river.org and Grant PUD: Commission Meetings page for Commission Meeting agendas for updates.

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