A River Runs Through It Spokane Residents Face Difficult Choiceon Centennial Corridor Redesign

Published in Automotive and Transportation on Tuesday, August 19th 2025 at 14:56 GMT by Aaron Neefham, The Spokesman-Review
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The familiar roar of traffic along the North and West Banks of Spokane’s Centennial Avenue is about to be accompanied by a different kind of noise – the voices of residents weighing in on a radical redesign proposal that promises to reshape the city's relationship with its iconic river. After years of planning, environmental impact studies, and contentious debate, the public will soon have the opportunity to formally weigh in on a plan that aims to transform the Centennial Corridor into a pedestrian-friendly, ecologically restored waterfront promenade.

The current situation is far from ideal. Centennial Avenue, built decades ago, acts as a barrier between downtown Spokane and its beautiful riverfront. It’s a four-lane arterial choked with traffic, punctuated by concrete barriers and limited access points to the water. The proposed redesign, spearheaded by the City of Spokane in collaboration with Riverstone Engineering and landscape architects Alta Planning + Design, seeks to dismantle this barrier and create a vibrant public space that connects people to the Spokane River.

The core concept revolves around significantly reducing vehicle traffic on Centennial Avenue. A key element is the creation of a “lower level” roadway – essentially a tunnel – beneath the new waterfront promenade. This lower level would maintain vehicular access for emergency vehicles, freight deliveries, and limited local traffic while drastically minimizing surface-level congestion and noise pollution. Above this tunnel, a wide pedestrian walkway and bike path will be constructed, punctuated by pocket parks, public art installations, and improved river access points.

The plan isn’t just about aesthetics; it's deeply rooted in ecological restoration. The current shoreline is heavily armored with concrete and riprap, preventing natural habitat development and hindering the river’s ability to function as a healthy ecosystem. The redesign incorporates “bio-stabilization” techniques – using native plants and natural materials to reinforce the banks and create riparian habitats for fish and wildlife. This includes restoring wetlands, improving water quality, and creating opportunities for recreational activities like kayaking and fishing.

However, the ambitious project isn't without its challenges and controversies. The estimated cost of $350 million is a significant hurdle, requiring a combination of federal grants, state funding, local bonds, and private investment. Concerns have been raised about potential disruptions during construction, which are expected to last several years. Furthermore, some business owners along Centennial Avenue worry that reduced vehicle traffic will negatively impact their businesses, despite assurances from city officials that efforts will be made to maintain accessibility and promote pedestrian-friendly retail environments.

The plan also addresses concerns regarding the historic significance of certain buildings along Centennial Avenue. While the redesign aims to preserve the architectural character of the area, some adjustments may be necessary to accommodate the new promenade and river access points. The City has committed to working closely with preservation groups to ensure that any modifications are sensitive to the historical context.

The public engagement process is crucial for the success of this project. Following a series of preliminary presentations and online forums, the city will hold formal hearings in July and August to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders. This input will be used to refine the design before it’s submitted to the City Council for final approval. A detailed environmental impact statement (EIS) is also underway, assessing the potential impacts of the project on air quality, noise levels, traffic patterns, and wildlife habitats.

The long-term vision extends beyond simply creating a beautiful waterfront. The redesigned Centennial Corridor aims to be a catalyst for economic development, attracting new businesses, residents, and tourists to downtown Spokane. It’s envisioned as a vibrant hub for community events, outdoor recreation, and cultural experiences – a place where people can connect with each other and appreciate the natural beauty of the Spokane River.

The project's success hinges on navigating these complexities and ensuring that the final design reflects the needs and desires of the entire community. The upcoming public hearings represent a pivotal moment in this process, offering residents a chance to shape the future of one of Spokane’s most important landmarks. Whether they support the ambitious vision or harbor concerns about its potential impacts, their voices will be instrumental in determining whether the Centennial Corridor can truly become a riverfront for all.

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A River Runs Through It Spokane Residents Face Difficult Choiceon Centennial Corridor Redesign

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