Wenatchee Ridge, Joseph County, Everson State
Wenatchee Ridge
Population: 8,019
Incorporated: 1973
County: Joseph County
Map Location:
ABOUT TOWN: Known for being "almost" the halfway point between Monitor and Republic, Wenatchee Ridge is a little getaway on the verge of dry country. The small community has sprouted around gas stations and now a small commercial core to keep the residents happy. The town has a reputation for their views over Joseph County, hence the name, "Wenatchee Ridge." The town is located on a ridge that overlooks large portions of the county and the Apache River far below. While still located in western Joseph County, which is considered green land, the town is just a stone throws toss from scrublands. The summers here are hot, and the area receives far less rain then much of the state. The Chase Mountains provide a lovely snow capped framing for the town if looking at it from the east, towards the west.
The main town is sprawled out along the highway with all the amenities that locals need including the ever growing retirement and time share community, benefiting from the warmer weather. Also an arts community is begin to grow, and embrace native culture. The town is adorned in native art, even on streetlights. Downtown has community favorites including a local diner, a few gas stations, a grocery store, McDonalds, and other smaller businesses. Many are predicting that Wenatchee Ridge will see increased growth within the next twenty years, and possibly becoming one of the top three biggest towns in the county. New housing is being built around the town, especially along the ridge.
A big portion of the residents in Wenatchee Ridge are wealthy and there are many nice homes around the town. Vacation homes dot the townscape and there are many full time residents as well. The town has a elementary school and a high school, as well as a private school. Numerous churches dot the town.
Wenatchee Ridge has a municipal police station that serves the community. There is a division called the "Senior Patrol" which attracts many retired seniors to drive around in marked patrol cars and do crime prevention. They also will provide extra security at schools and town events. A fire station is also located in town with a few full time employee's and volunteers. Located in town is also a medical clinic.
It is not uncommon to see wildlife roam the streets of Wenatchee Ridge, as it has kept a nature friendly charm, but with the recent growth and expected growth, will the town be able to still pride itself to being one infused with nature? Only time will be able to tell, as Wenatchee Ridge has big hopes to fulfill.
LOCATION: Wenatchee Ridge is more dry then nearby Chane and Northwood Counties by a long ways. It falls within the rain shadow of nearby Chase mountains to the west. It is located south of Monitor and northwest of Republic. The Apache River is located down the ridge from town and is to the east.
HISTORY: A far more recent community, Wenatchee Ridge was not settled until the 1930s. A few businesses opened shop alongside the newly built highway and soon a few homes followed. It was not until 1973 that Wenatchee Ridge was incorporated.
ATTRACTIONS: The Apache River and 290 days of sunshine a year. Warm temperatures during the summer months and nearby to other attractions.
Wenatchee Ridge, Everson State (AJM SC4)
(Looking west over Wenatchee Ridge.)
Wenatchee Ridge, Everson State (AJM SC4)
(Looking south over town.)
Wenatchee Ridge, Everson State (AJM SC4)
(The commercial heart of Wenatchee Ridge has been growing in recent years.)
Wenatchee Ridge, Everson State (AJM SC4)
(Some commercial buildings separate from downtown at the south end of town when entering from the highway.)
Wenatchee Ridge, Everson State (AJM SC4)
(Some homes and condos on the edge of Wenatchee Ridge with great views of the Apache River some 400 feet below. There is a large elevation change.)
Wenatchee Ridge, Everson State (AJM SC4)
(Ridge High School is located in Wenatchee Ridge.)
Wenatchee Ridge, Everson State (AJM SC4)
(The main intersection in Wenatchee Ridge. Recent plans are calling for a road widening and re-zoning for mixed use development to create a "village" feel at the base of the Chase Mountains. Possible perfect idea being right next to the mountains and Apache River.)
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