Spokane Council urges legislators to uphold North South Freeway funding commitments

During the Spokane City Council District 1 Town Hall Meeting on March 17, 2025, community members and council members voiced urgent concerns regarding the stalled North Spokane Corridor project, which has significant implications for local neighborhoods and economic development.

Councilor McCat Hart emphasized the importance of completing the freeway, which has been delayed for decades. He highlighted that the project was part of a $16.1 billion revenue package called Connecting Washington, which promised to enhance transportation infrastructure in Spokane. Hart expressed frustration over the potential abandonment of this commitment, stating that it would undermine trust in government and negatively impact communities like Hilliard, Bemis, and East Central. He warned that without the freeway's completion, anticipated economic revitalization and job creation would be jeopardized.

Residents echoed these sentiments, with Tyler Kerr, a first-time homeowner in Minnehaha, urging council members to advocate for continued funding for the corridor. He shared his personal commitment to community service, underscoring the need for local leaders to take action on this critical issue.

Council members responded by reaffirming their dedication to the project, noting that bipartisan support exists among local legislators. However, they acknowledged the challenges posed by a state transportation budget shortfall, which could delay the project further. Councilor Bingo mentioned that despite assurances of full funding, the corridor is currently $80 million short, raising concerns about the timeline for completion.

In addition to transportation issues, the meeting also addressed the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, with Councilor Molly Hart advocating for tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of different neighborhoods. She stressed the importance of expediting the distribution of funds to ensure that projects can commence without unnecessary delays.

Housing affordability was another critical topic, with residents sharing their struggles with rising rents and the need for legislative support for House Bill 1217, which aims to address housing issues. Council members discussed various strategies to increase housing supply and improve tenant protections, acknowledging the complexities of the housing crisis in Spokane.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community is looking for decisive action from their leaders on both transportation and housing issues. The council's commitment to advocating for the North Spokane Corridor and addressing local needs reflects a broader goal of fostering economic growth and improving quality of life for all Spokane residents.