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Spokane Falls Boulevard rebuild aims to replace century-old utilities and improve crossings; public survey drew 1,200 responses
Summary
City staff described alternatives for Spokane Falls Boulevard that trade lane configurations, protected bike facilities, parking and a limited two‑way conversion to improve access to the convention center. Planners said an early survey drew about 1,200 responses and design is slated for 2026 with construction targeted for 2028.
City staff presented planning for a Spokane Falls Boulevard rebuild that would address structurally deficient pavement and century‑old utilities in the corridor near City Hall.
Kevin Picasso, filling in for the project lead, said early engagement produced about 1,200 survey responses. Staff developed four alternatives that bracket public opinion: (1) retain existing lane count and narrow lanes to include a one‑way protected bike lane adjacent to Riverfront Park; (2) reduce travel lanes from three to two and add parking; (3) reduce to two lanes and provide a two‑way protected cycle track along the northerly frontage; and (4) convert the west segment to two‑way traffic (one lane in each direction) or, for a shorter stretch, a limited two‑way conversion to improve access to the convention center.
Picasso emphasized that the rebuild is driven by structural needs and utility replacement but that the project provides an opportunity to consider long‑term multimodal changes, including lighting, signal upgrades and continuing the shared‑use path through Riverfront Park. He noted fire and emergency vehicle clearance standards require a minimum clear roadway width (roughly 20 feet), which constrains single‑lane alternatives.
Staff outlined an engagement plan with stakeholder sessions, elected‑official briefings and a final public open house; they hope to select a preferred alternative to enter detailed design in 2026 and target construction in 2028.
What’s next: staff will continue stakeholder engagement, refine designs and return to the commission and City Council with a preferred alternative and cost estimates.
