SPOKANE, Wash. — A major downtown street that has operated as a one-way for decades could soon see significant changes as the city considers converting Spokane Falls Boulevard to accommodate two-way traffic.
The city is exploring the conversion as part of a broader reconstruction project for the street, which officials say needs to be rebuilt from a surface perspective. The area sees heavy event traffic daily and serves as a popular recreation road due to its proximity to Riverfront Park.
“Spokane Falls Boulevard has been designated as a street that really needs to be rebuilt from a surface perspective,” said Kirstin Davis, city communications manager.
City officials believe redesigning the street could make it more accessible for residents and visitors navigating the downtown area.
“The whole goal is to have this opportunity. Let’s explore it,” Davis said.
However, the proposed change has drawn mixed reactions from residents. Some question whether adding more two-way streets downtown is the right approach.
“I think downtown’s got maybe a little bit too many one-way streets. So if the city really wants to do more two ways, I’d say be a little more selective on where we are going to be doing that,” said Erica Thurman, a Spokane resident.
City officials say they have been consulting with local businesses and receiving varied feedback about the proposed changes.
“It’s really kind of a mixed bag. You know, it just depends on what their needs are,” Davis said.
The project remains in early planning stages. The city hopes to complete design work by the end of next year and begin construction around April 2028.
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