Port celebrates new Friends Landing Boat Launch Parking Lot and Day Use Improvements

Montesano, WA –   Earlier this week on a beautiful fall afternoon, Port of Grays Harbor Commissioners and staff were joined by project donors, partners and community members for a ribbon cutting celebrating the completion of the new Friends Landing Boat Launch Parking Lot and Day Use Improvement Projects.    

The Boat Launch Parking Lot Project included paving and striping the parking lot area, installation of an ADA accessible boarding ramp, an information kiosk, and lighting improvements. This project was made possible by grant funding through the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office Boating Facilities Program.

The Day Use Improvements included the addition of a brand-new pickleball court, accessible sidewalks, picnic tables and benches. These improvements were made possible with donations from the Kelsey Foundation and Grays Harbor Community Foundation.

“Friends Landing is one of the Port’s most valued public access facilities, and these improvements help ensure it remains welcoming and accessible for everyone who visits,” said Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Leonard Barnes. “We are grateful to the Kelsey Foundation, Grays Harbor Community Foundation, and the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office for partnering with us to make these improvements possible.”

“These projects reflect the Port Commission’s commitment to investing in public access for our local community and visitors alike. From the new pickleball court to improved accessibility and parking, these improvements will serve our park and those who visit for years to come and we look forward to further improvements in the future,” shared Port of Grays Harbor Commissioner Phil Papac.

About Friends Landing

Friends Landing, a facility of the Port of Grays Harbor, is located outside of Montesano, WA and offers 152 acres of recreation opportunities on the Chehalis River and Lake Quigg including hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking and camping.  For more information or to make your camping reservations visit friendslanding.org. 

Ribbon-cutting for the Friends Landing Day Use Improvements. 10/5/2026.

An aerial view of the brand-new Friends Landing Boat Launch Parking Lot Improvements that were completed just in time for salmon fishing season thanks to grant funding from the Washington State Recreation & Conservation Office

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