Spokane Conservation District wins $50,000 CURB planning grant for Midway development feasibility study

The Community Economic Revitalization Board approved a $50,000 planning grant to the Spokane Conservation District to fund a feasibility study for Phase 4 of the Quarry campus master plan, known as the Midway development project.

Spokane Conservation District director Vicky Carter told the board the study will assess short‑ and long‑term public and private uses, address access and stormwater drainage issues, inventory construction costs, and analyze two wetlands on site. She described the site’s recent developments — new apartments adjacent to the property and completed phases of the Quarry project including a recently completed scale house market — and noted the District’s operating authority under state law (RCW 89.08).

Staff recommended the project take the form of a $50,000 planning grant with precontract requirements to be completed within four months (finalized scope of work, evidence that consultant services have been selected, and proof of secured match). The total project budget is $62,500, including a $12,500 match.

A board member moved to approve the grant; the motion was seconded and the board approved the staff recommendation by voice vote. Speakers at the discussion asked how the feasibility study would address stormwater impacts from nearby housing developments and whether the project would be affected by environmental permitting; Carter said the District has worked with city partners and the Department of Ecology, and noted asphalt at the site has been characterized as inert and that DNR mining permits remain active for ongoing material movement.