Julie Happy

The Developing University District Bridge Project

Julie Happy, Division Communication Manager of Business and Developer Services, No Phone Number Available


Friday, December 6, 2013 at 3:30 p.m.

The Developing University District Bridge Project

The University District is an emerging area targeted for new and redevelopment growth. The vision is to foster development of the neighborhood into a vibrant mixed use area. Elements could include housing and services for the college campuses to the north and for the Medical District on its southern border.

The Burlington Northern Santa Fe bisects the University District and separates the southern commercial and multi-use area from the northern institutional area breaking up the connectivity between the two. The University District Bridge is a critical missing link for this developing corridor.

The University District Bridge is a pedestrian bicycle bridge over the BNSF corridor. The overhead passage would establish a fundamental north-south connection from the University District campus to the Sprague area and medical district on the south, and creates an iconic sense of place. Additionally, the bridge would be a key component to support future mixed-use development in the Sprague area.

The history and timeline for the bridge has been ongoing for approximately 10 years. The need for the bridge was identified in 2004. A type, size, and location study (TSL) was conducted in 2010-2011 with input from the public and key stakeholders, such as the Mayor’s Advisory Committee and consultant team that represented the interests and concerns for the area. A plan, Specifications and Engineer’s Construction Cost Estimate Phase (PS&E) is currently being conducted through the 2013-2014 years. This involves surveying, project aesthetics, civil and structural engineering, geotechnical exploration, urban planning and design, permitting assistance, public involvement and real estate appraisal to move forward with construction-ready contract documents.

Citizen feedback from initial open house events has been favorable on the design and development of the district. An additional open house will be held Tuesday, Dec. 10, at the South Campus Facility room, 100N, on the WSU Riverpoint Campus to present the current project updates and plan. Citizens are encouraged to attend and provide feedback on this project to jhappy@spokanecity.org. You can also follow project updates through this blog.

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