Project to Transform Railroad Alley into New Downtown Destination
Spokane, WASH. (June 5, 2026)- At a breakfast attended by over 300 of Spokane’s business leaders and community advocates, the Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP) today announced Vintage Alley, a multi-phase public art and placemaking project that will transform the underutilized corridor into a vibrant downtown destination featuring large-scale murals, decorative lighting, and a future outdoor neon museum celebrating Spokane’s history.
The project is centered in Railroad Alley between the Norman and Jefferson buildings, currently undergoing redevelopment into a 40-unit mixed-use apartment project with ground-floor retail. The development is a partnership between RenCorp Realty and Urbin Development and was designed by Olson Projects.
“Vintage Alley is exactly the kind of creative, place-based investment that helps strengthen downtown Spokane as a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike,” said DSP President & CEO, Emilie Cameron. “We’re thrilled to partner with local artist Chris Bovey, whose vision and talent will transform an underutilized pathway into an experience that celebrates Spokane’s history while creating something entirely new and memorable.”
The vision for Vintage Alley emerged through conversations with neighboring property owners and tenants, including Caliber Collision, Hotel Indigo, and the Commercial Building, who shared a desire to create a unique gathering space in the heart of downtown.
“The idea came from asking a simple question: How do we make this alley a destination?” said Chris Batten of RenCorp Realty. “The 270-foot wall of the Caliber Collision building, owned by the Barton family, presented an incredible opportunity to create one of Spokane’s largest murals and establish the foundation for something truly unique downtown.”
While exploring concepts for the space, project partners connected with local artist and neon preservation advocate Chris Bovey, who had long envisioned creating a public display for his growing collection of historic neon signs.
“Having been inspired by outdoor neon displays in places like Pueblo, Colorado, Boise, and Edmonton, I’ve wanted to put my neon collection on public display for years,” said Bovey. “When Chris Batten and Chris Olson approached me about activating Jefferson Alley, it immediately felt like the perfect fit. I’m excited to share a permanent piece of Spokane’s history and create an experience that residents and visitors can enjoy for years to come.”
The first phase of the project will include the installation of decorative string lighting and a large-scale mural designed by Bovey. Future phases will introduce carefully curated vintage neon signs throughout the alley, creating an immersive public art experience unlike anything else in the region.
According to Cameron, projects like Vintage Alley add character, encourage exploration, support local businesses, and create the unique sense of place that drives downtown revitalization. Project partners envision Vintage Alley evolving into a three-block destination that supports downtown activity, public events, and future business opportunities.
“I would love to see live music in this alley and additional businesses that complement the experience,” said Bovey. “This project has the potential to become one of Spokane’s most memorable public spaces.”
Funding for the project has been made possible through a combination of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and private contributions. The Downtown Spokane Partnership continues to seek community support to help complete future phases of the project. Tax-deductible donations can be made through the Downtown Spokane Community Investment Group. Donations can be made at https://qrco.de/bgqWTi.
Construction on the initial phase is expected to begin this summer, with additional neon installations planned as funding and project phases advance.