The City of Spokane and the Mayor Condon's Office launched the Innovation Alleyways project in 2019 to explore ways to revitalize and re-envision select downtown alleyways into places of connectivity and vibrant arts culture. Historically, alleyways have provided limited functions and primarily serve as an access area that lacks visibility to the general public. Innovation Alleyways promotes transforming the use of alleyways to functional pedestrian spaces. This project specifically focuses on Railroad Alley and the Steam Plant Alley which runs parallel to the railroad viaduct, but also encourages alleyway revitalization throughout downtown.
Download the Innovation Alleyways Toolkit (PDF 4.3 MB)
Following a series of community engagement opportunities, the City developed the Innovation Alleyways Toolkit. The toolkit builds on feedback received from property owners, businesses, residents, and community partners between January and June, including stakeholder meetings, a two-day design workshop, an open house, and a community survey with over 220 responses.
The toolkit provides an accessible overview of the permitting processes as well as best practices for property owners and the community to move forward. The outcome is to encourage alleyway improvements in downtown Spokane with lighting and greenery as well as people-oriented spaces for café seating, arts, music, and other programming that help make the alleys a destination.
If you are interested in learning more about the process to activate an alley, please contact Planning & Development at 509.625.6300 or visit the office on the 3rd Floor City Hall.
Design Workshop
Workshop with local urban designers, landscape architects, architects and artists to explore ways to enliven downtown alleyways
Friday, March 29, 2019 – Saturday, March 30, 2019
First Friday Open House
Gather community input and ideas for alley revitalization
Friday, May 3, 2019
River Park Square
Toolkit Launch
Thursday, September 26, 2019
Whistle Punk Brewing
Maren Murphy, AICP
Associate Planner
mmurphy@spokanecity.org
509.625.6500
