As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, fall is the perfect time for downtown Spokane businesses to refresh, tidy up, and help keep our city shining. A clean, welcoming downtown doesn’t just look great, it makes a lasting impression on visitors and helps create a more vibrant community for everyone who works, shops, and plays here.

Here are a few ways business owners can contribute to a cleaner, more beautiful downtown this season:

Keep Your Storefront Clear and Inviting

Falling leaves, dust, and litter tend to collect along sidewalks and doorways this time of year. Take a few minutes each day to sweep up leaves, pick up debris, and make sure your entryway is clear of clutter. Keeping sidewalks clean not only improves curb appeal but also prevents slippery surfaces when wet weather hits.

Plant for the Future

Fall isn’t just for raking leaves, it’s the ideal time to plant spring bulbs, trees, and other long-lasting greenery. A little effort now can make a big difference when downtown comes alive again in the spring. Consider adding planters or refreshing your landscaping to bring color and life to your storefront. Trees and greenery not only beautify the block but also help keep the air cleaner and provide shade in warmer months.

APPLY FOR FREE STREET TREES

If you’re interested in planting trees near your business, the Downtown Spokane Partnership and the City of Spokane are offering a Tree Grant Program to help business owners enhance their frontage with new plantings HERE.

Give Windows and Signage a Seasonal Refresh

Smudged windows or faded signage can dull your storefront’s sparkle. Schedule a quick window cleaning or dust off outdoor signage to make your business shine again. Consider adding fall décor that complements your brand and contributes to a cheerful downtown atmosphere.

Secure Your Garbage Cans

Wind, wildlife, and downtown foot traffic can easily scatter trash and recycling if containers aren’t properly secured. Adding locks or tight-fitting lids to your garbage cans helps prevent spills, keeps alleys and sidewalks clean, and deters pests. A simple latch or lock system can go a long way in maintaining a tidy and professional appearance outside your business.

Be Mindful About Waste and Recycling

With more take-out orders, packaging, and seasonal promotions, it’s easy for extra waste to pile up. Ensure your trash and recycling bins are properly used and not overflowing. Encourage customers to dispose of litter responsibly and recycle when possible.

Keep Sidewalks and Storm Drains Clear

As leaves fall, they can quickly clog storm drains and cause flooding. Take a moment to clear nearby drains of leaves or debris, especially during heavy rain. Keeping sidewalks and curbs clean helps maintain safe and dry walking areas for customers and employees alike.

Be a Good Neighbor

Small acts, like sweeping beyond your doorway or picking up litter near neighboring businesses, add up. When everyone does their part, downtown stays welcoming year-round.

Together, we can make a big impact.
A cleaner downtown reflects the pride we all share in downtown Spokane’s thriving urban core. Whether it’s a quick sweep, a seasonal spruce-up, or joining a volunteer clean-up day, your effort helps make downtown a place people love to visit and return to again and again.

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Downtown Business Hero Spotlight

Shoutout to the Spokane Comedy Club for locking their trash and recycling cans on Sprague. Small practices like this make a huge difference.

Are you a downtown business that’s gone the extra mile to keep our city clean and welcoming? Or have you noticed a neighbor doing something great for our community? We’d love to highlight them! Reach out to Lschmidt@downtownspokane.org and let us know about businesses we can give some love!