Spokane leaders unveil ARPA-funded mural in Hilliard to boost neighborhood business and place-making

Mayor Lisa Brown and Spokane councilmembers visited Hilliard to celebrate a new public mural by artist Emma Noyes that officials said was paid for with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and intended to support neighborhood revitalization.

The mural, unveiled during a short site visit, was described by Councilmember Bobby Whitaker as a piece that ties "tribal history and Hilliard history" together. Whitaker said, "This is a beautiful mural, but done by, Emma Noyes, and this was funded with the grant." Mayor Lisa Brown said the funding originated with ARPA dollars allocated through council priorities, noting the investment was intended to help small businesses in neighborhood business districts.

Why it matters: City officials framed the mural as more than public art. Councilmember Bridal said the council prioritizes "creating a sense of place" through works like this so neighborhoods become destinations that attract visitors and customers. Officials linked the mural to local economic goals, pointing to nearby businesses such as Hilliard Bicycle and the walkability of the area as reasons the investment would benefit both shop owners and residents.

Council context: Mayor Brown said the council set priorities so that "all the districts and all the neighborhoods could have a shot" at ARPA-funded projects. She described the Hilliard site as part of a broader push to revitalize neighborhood business districts, and noted the mural sits near the new Children Of The Sun Veil trail, which officials said will open before the North-South Corridor is completed.

What officials said: Whitaker emphasized neighborhood character and local owners: "it's not corporate. It's not big corporations. It's not like a strip mall." Councilmember Bridal added that murals can unify a neighborhood and create social and recreational destinations for residents and visitors alike.

Details and limits: Officials referred to "the grant" and ARPA funds but did not specify a dollar amount or the precise grant program. There was no formal vote or ordinance recorded during the site visit; the gathering was presented as a celebratory inspection of the finished work and neighboring improvements.

Next steps: Officials encouraged residents to visit Hilliard to see the mural and support local businesses. No additional actions, timelines, or funding breakdowns were announced during the visit.