Spokane City Council approves downtown zip line to run over Riverfront Park

The Spokane City Council voted unanimously June 23 to approve a permissible-use agreement that allows a privately operated zip line to be built over Riverfront Park and land in the downtown core.

Downtown Spokane Partnership representative Raylyn Barton said the organization "proudly formalize[s] our strong support for the proposed downtown rec zip line operated by Mike Moon Zip Tours," calling the attraction a "thoughtful and strategic addition to the downtown experience." The council had earlier described the item as Ordinance C36703, approving a permissible-use agreement OPR 2025-431 between the city, Spokane Parks and Recreation, Spokane Skylines LLC and Epiphany Apply Concepts Inc. for the construction, operation and maintenance of a zip line.

The project drew public support from the Downtown Spokane Partnership and a resident who urged the council to plan for liability contingencies. Sunshine Wiggins, a Spokane resident, said the city should set aside funds in case of lawsuits related to early operating errors but added she "completely support[s] this."

Council members who spoke in favor framed the vote as a long-running effort to activate downtown. Council President Pro Tem Dillon Cathcart said the idea dates to at least 2021 and praised the plan for being developed by a private contractor that will pay installation costs and assume liability. Councilor Bridal said the project will improve ADA access at Riverfront Park, add shuttle service and create an opportunity to activate Truist Plaza and other park areas. Councilor McClitzky said the vendor was required by the city legal department to carry insurance "beyond the industry standards." Council comment also noted an expectation that the operator will provide low-cost or free days so more residents can use the attraction.

Council members prepared and took a vote after public comment and council remarks; the motion to approve passed 5-0. No amendments to the agreement were recorded during the meeting. Council discussion distinguished the private operator’s obligations from city responsibilities: councilors repeatedly emphasized that the contractor will assume construction costs and primary liability while parks staff will oversee permitting and compliance.

The council did not set a specific opening date during the meeting; multiple speakers referenced a projected 2025 opening but no formal effective date was in the ordinance text presented for final action. Implementation tasks raised on the dais include final permitting and confirmation of insurance and accessibility work by Spokane Parks and Recreation.

The measure concluded council action on the item; supporters said they expect the attraction to bring more visitors downtown and to support nearby businesses and cultural venues. Opposition during testimony was limited to requests for contingency funding and safety assurances; no council member voted against the agreement.

Additional context: council members said the zip line concept has been discussed for several years, including during park board deliberations. The contract and permitting process that follows the council approval will determine timing for construction and specific community access programs.