The Spokane City Council approved Ordinance C36120 vacating the east 55 feet of Adam Street and an adjacent alley segment after public testimony from the property owners who said the vacation would reduce trespass, property damage and safety incidents.

Steven Coffey, who owns the building at 3rd and Adams, described repeated incidents over five years — including fires, broken windows, blocked driveways and a pellet‑gun shooting — and said the street vacation is the best available solution to recurring problems that have affected his business and building. “I've been assaulted four times asking people to move…this is the best answer we could have for all these problems,” Coffey said.

Valerie Coffey, who described her family as third‑generation business owners, said promises made during the Volunteers of America and Hope House project — including commitments to timely completion and 24‑hour security — were not fulfilled. She asked the council to ensure future projects more fully consider neighbors’ concerns and follow through on commitments.

Multiple council members congratulated the Coffeys for their persistence and acknowledged the long process; the ordinance was adopted by a unanimous vote.

Vote: Ordinance C36120 approved 7‑0.