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Staff says TBD sidewalk pot covers only a sliver of $100M‑plus need; commission to return with prioritized projects
Summary
Integrated Capital Management staff told the commission that the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) yields about $3.1–$3.4 million annually and that the TBD’s 10% sidewalk allocation equates to the low $300,000s — far short of an estimated $100 million-plus citywide sidewalk need. Commissioners discussed two‑year slates and a June return with selections.
City staff told the Spokane Transportation Commission that the Transportation Benefit District (TBD) sidewalk program can fund only a small portion of the city’s estimated sidewalk need and urged focused project selection.
Kevin Picasso of Integrated Capital Management told commissioners that recent TBD revenue runs “in the range of 3.1 to $3,400,000 a year,” and that “10% of that is in the low $300,000s,” which is the typical annual budget available under the TBD sidewalk allocation. He added: “I suspect we're up in that $100,000,000 plus range” when describing the citywide sidewalk need.
Why it matters: the TBD carries a statutory allocation directing 10% of its revenue to sidewalks; within current revenue levels that yields a modest annual sum that can fund only limited infill projects. Staff said that increasing the annual TBD allocation for sidewalks (or the car‑tab fee that funds the TBD) would reduce the pool available for street maintenance unless additional revenue sources are identified.
Key details discussed: staff described standard project characteristics (generally one‑side infill, targeting arterials, greenways, schools and high‑activity locations) and recommended spreading projects across council districts over time. Staff proposed allowing commissioners to select projects for two years (a 2‑year slate) so the commission has a backup project if the first choice falls through. The commission also requested district‑level cost data; Kevin said staff would provide cost estimates to members within days.
Next steps: commissioners were asked to review district project lists and return selections in June; staff will present a final recommended list after that review.
