SPOKANE, Wash. — More people are feeling safer walking in downtown Spokane during the day, but are still worried about the area at night, according to a recent survey.
Greater Spokane Incorporated, a local organization focused on building up Spokane’s economy, surveyed 600 people in April 2025 about their feelings toward downtown Spokane.
Nearly 70% of the 600 people surveyed said they feel comfortable in downtown Spokane during daylight hours.
This is compared to 58% of survey respondents in October 2024 who said they felt comfortable downtown during the day.
The new results reflect recently reported Spokane Police Department data on violent and property crime.
Many local business owners and residents echoed the survey’s findings and said the area is generally safe, but not without its challenges.
“In not going downtown because you’re scared, it’s your loss. You’re the one that’s missing out,” said Jesse McCauley, manager of Petunia & Loomis.
While many respondents said they avoid downtown at night, local businesses hope people will give the area another chance.
Morgan Lynch, owner of Jupiter’s Eye Book Cafe, acknowledged safety concerns but pointed to initiatives aimed at improving the environment.
“There are definitely reasons to be concerned with safety downtown, but I also think there are a lot of initiatives to help ease those concerns,” Lynch said.
Programs from the Downtown Spokane Partnership, such as the Clean Team and the Walking Buddy program, which offers escorts to walk people to work or their cars, are among the efforts to make the area more inviting.
Emilie Cameron, CEO of the Downtown Spokane Partnership, said safety remains a top priority.
“The issues that are playing out on our streets and on our sidewalks are top of mind for people. They want to know that when they come downtown, they’ll be safe. They want to know that the city is being responsive,” Cameron said.
Survey respondents identified clearing encampments from public sidewalks and parks as a major concern, along with calls for improved drug treatment and mental health services.
“I think there is a drug problem, and I think that it’s kind of rampant throughout everywhere, not just downtown. So, I think we just need more things to help those people that want to be helped,” McCauley said.
Despite the concerns, more than 90 percent of those surveyed said downtown Spokane is critical to the region’s economic health. The Downtown Spokane Partnership says it is committed to making the area even more welcoming in the future.
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