After a deliberate and detailed selection process, the Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP) has signed a contract with Seattle-based firm, Framework, to update Spokane’s Downtown Plan.
The original Downtown Plan was adopted into the City of Spokane Comprehensive Plan in 1999. Crafted to fully integrate visions, urban planning, design guidelines and regulatory recommendation with a comprehensive public participation and outreach process. The 2008 plan update helped develop Kendall Yards into the energetic, diverse, and distinctive urban neighborhood we know today. This update also addressed the redevelopment of Riverfront Park and the expansion of the Spokane Convention Center. When adopted, the 2020 plan will provide a ten-year horizon to set the foundation for the next stage of downtown’s development.
The DSP will be working closely with the City of Spokane and Framework to engage community feedback all across the Intermountain Northwest. “Downtown is economically vital to the region which is why our goal is to cast a wide net to inspire thoughtful feedback on this 2020 plan update,” says DSP President, Mark Richard. “Our communication and outreach methods will be wide ranging.”
Through digital surveying, streaming meetings, community events and open houses, the public will be asked to interface on topics such as catalytic development opportunities; code; infrastructure; public space, park and alley activation; social services, wayfinding and neighborhood identity; pedestrian and bike friendly options; the Central City Line; and improving access to the downtown core.
The DSP will be gathering stakeholders throughout the summer with a launch for public feedback in early October and final plan to be adopted into the Comprehensive Plan in early 2020.
About Downtown Spokane
The DSP is a private, non-profit membership organization that serves as Spokane’s central city advocate and service provider, dedicated to enhancing the quality and vitality of Downtown Spokane as the basis for a healthy region. The DSP accomplishes its mission through advocating for public policies, business and project development, quality planning, physical improvement projects, public safety, beautification, and marketing programs that ensure downtown’s continued success. To learn more, visit www.downtownspokane.org.
About Framework
Framework is a multidisciplinary design and planning firm focused on Cultural Placemaking. We put people and public life at the heart of design and planning. We cross disciplines to find synergies between buildings, spaces, and communities practicing Architecture, Urban Design, Art, Research and Communication Design. For more information on frame work projects visit weareframework.com/projects.