Plans for 70-foot cross in Leavenworth have been withdrawn
Mar 14, 2025, 7:58 AM | Updated: 7:59 am
A 70-foot illuminated cross atop a hill overlooking Leavenworth is in the process of being constructed. (Photo courtesy of Upper Valley Cross)
(Photo courtesy of Upper Valley Cross)
Plans for a 70-foot illuminated cross atop a hill overlooking Leavenworth had sparked a debate among residents. But now the plans have been withdrawn.
The proposal was put forth by a local prayer group, the Upper Valley Cross Foundation, atop Tumwater Mountain. Proponents of the project argue that the cross would serve as a symbol of hope and faith, potentially attracting visitors and benefiting the local economy. Opponents, however, raise concerns about the cross’s size and visibility, suggesting it might alienate non-Christian community members and visitors, potentially impacting tourism.
The Leavenworth City Council has acknowledged the community’s divided opinions and is reviewing the proposal. According to a Chelan County spokesperson, per KING 5, the plan has been withdrawn following the feedback.
“My hope now is that the community begins to heal,” Chelan County Commissioner Shon Smith said in a statement to the Leavenworth City Council Tuesday. “That we remember why we all live here and what we provide together to millions of people from around the world.”
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What were the arguments around the Leavenworth cross proposal?
Supporters of the project viewed the cross as a beacon of hope and faith.
“Christians need to stand up and represent for their faith,” one prayer group member told The Seattle Times.
Advocates believe that such a symbol could have served as a positive landmark, potentially attracting visitors and benefiting the local economy. They also emphasized the importance of religious expression and property rights, noting that the cross was planned for private land.
However, some in the community raised objections over the proposed Leavenworth cross.
Critics argued that its imposing size and illumination could disrupt the town’s aesthetic and cultural identity. There was also concern that such a prominent religious symbol might alienate non-Christian community members and visitors, potentially impacting tourism.
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