Chelan Post Office nearing indoor relocation after months of mobile operations

CHELAN — After months of operating from a temporary mobile unit, progress is underway toward securing a permanent indoor home for the Chelan Post Office.

Since March, postal employees have continued providing core services while the original building underwent renovation. Both staff and residents have voiced concern about the lack of an indoor facility, especially as winter approaches.

In recent weeks, renewed coordination among local, state, and federal partners has moved the process forward. Chelan Postmaster Randy Kopel and Mayor Erin McCardle have identified a potential new site in Historic Downtown Chelan that meets community needs for accessibility and convenience.

With support from U.S. Representative Kim Schrier, M.D., the U.S. Postal Service Facilities Department has accelerated its review and leasing process for the proposed location — a key step toward restoring full indoor postal operations.

“Representative Schrier’s leadership has been instrumental in getting this issue the attention it deserves,” McCardle said. “We’re very encouraged to see real movement toward a solution that serves both our residents and our hardworking postal employees.”

Schrier, who recently visited Chelan to meet with Kopel and USPS staff, reaffirmed her commitment to seeing the project through. “Reliable, accessible postal service is essential for every community,” Schrier said. “I’m encouraged to see the USPS taking important steps toward a new building location, and I’ll continue working to make sure this process stays on track. Time is of the essence, as inclement weather is just around the corner.”

The City of Chelan thanked USPS leadership for its responsiveness and praised local postal employees for maintaining mail and package delivery under challenging conditions.

More information will be shared as site plans and timelines are finalized.