What It Is lala

The Urban Cultural Trail (UCT) concept aims to create a cultural and active experience for pedestrians in the downtown by shaping an existing urban corridor – Riverside Avenue – into a sought-after destination. The UCT would encourage residents, downtown employees and visitors to walk along the trail, experiencing urban art, colorful signage, pop-up performances and historic storytelling. The project was a partnership between the DSP, the Spokane Regional Health District, and the Berger Partnership from Seattle, who recently completed similar trail studies for the Seattle Waterfront and MOHAI. The Berger Partnership led the stakeholder group and produced the study. The completed study outlines and defines character zones along the trail, as well as over eight types of urban interventions that might populate the trail experience.

Our Position

More active sidewalks means more activity for our local businesses and creates safer streets throughout the downtown. The Spokane Regional Health District is excited about how an urban trail can meet people where they are and encourage physical activity. This project will improve economic development and health though promoting walking along the cultural trail. A key strength of the trail is that most of its components are already there—connecting streetscapes, great architecture, increasingly vibrant businesses and the rich culture and heritage that shape Spokane. Projects like this are not dependent upon expensive infrastructure improvements. For minimal cost, you can start to change the urban environment, for the better.

Where We Are

The Berger Partnership recommends the project move forward in developing a unique brand that can build public awareness around the route. Next steps include financing the design and phased implementation for the project.

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