Spokane invests in Underhill Park to boost community engagement and facilities

The Spokane City Council held a meeting on July 3, 2025, to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated sport court at Underhill Park. The event highlighted the importance of community spaces and the ongoing efforts to revitalize the East Central neighborhood.

The meeting began with remarks from a council member who expressed personal connections to Underhill Park, emphasizing its role as a vital community hub. The speaker noted that the park provides modern facilities that encourage residents to stay active and connected, ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of the neighborhood. The council member also referenced the Fifth Avenue initiative, linking the park's revitalization to broader community development goals.

Following this, Riley Stockton, the executive director of Hoopfest, addressed attendees, sharing his enthusiasm for the project. He highlighted the transformation of the sport court, which had previously been in disrepair, making it unplayable. Stockton acknowledged the contributions of community partners, including No Library and Dick's Sporting Goods, which helped fund the renovations.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued investment in community spaces, reinforcing the commitment to improving quality of life for all residents. The council member left attendees with a light-hearted question about learning to play pickleball, signaling a desire for community engagement in the new facilities.

Overall, the ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant step in enhancing Underhill Park as a space for recreation and community pride, with plans for further improvements in the future.