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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-05-14 PC AGENDA PACKETSookane jUalley Notice and Agenda for Regular Meeting Spokane Valley Planning Commission Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Remotely via ZOOM meeting and In Person at Spokane Valley City Hall located at 10210 E Sprague Avenue NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Regular Spokane Valley Planning Commission meeting will be held May 14, 2026, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in Council Chambers at Spokane Valley City Hall located at 10210E Sprague Avenue, Spokane Valley, Washington. The purpose of the meeting is to consider the items listed below on the Agenda. NOTE: Members of the public may attend Spokane Valley Planning Commission meetings in -person at City Hall at the address provided above, or via Zoom at the link below. Members of the public will be allowed to comment in -person or via Zoom as described below: If making a comment via Zoom, comments must be received by 4:00 pm, the day of the meeting. Please email plammne(/Dspokanevallevwar go or call the Planning Commission Secretary at 509-720-5110 to be added to the Zoom speaker list. Otherwise, comments will betake in -person at the meeting, as noted on the agenda below: LINK TO ZOOM MEETING INFORMATION: httlis://spokanevalley.zoom.us!/87146597722 One tap mobile US:+12532158782„87146597722#or+13462487799„87146597722#US Meeting ID: 871 4659 7722 AGENDA: 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Apri130, 2026 6. COMMISSION REPORTS 7. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT S. PUBLIC COMMENT: 7hisis an opportumbjor thepublic to speakon any subject except items listed aspublic comment opportunity orpublic hearing as comments will be taken when those items appear on the agenda. 9. COMMISSION BUSINESS: a. Study Session: Draft Element Review— Comprehensive Plan Update (Presented By Steve Roberge) • Chapter 6—Transportation • Chapter 7—Capital Facilities • Chapter 9—Parks, Recreation & Open Space 10. FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER 11. ADJOURNMENT Special Meeting Minutes Spokane Valley Planning Commission Spokane Valley City Hall April 30, 2026 I. Chairman Robertson called the special meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. The meeting was held in person and via ZOOM meetings. II. The Commissioners and staff stood for the Pledge of Allegiance. III. Administrative Assistant Denise Mclain took attendance, and the following members and staff were present: John Robertson Bob McKinley - Absent Thomas Dingus Kristopher Pockell Justin Weathermon Ann Winkler - Absent Steve Roberge, Planning Manager Kelly Konkright, City Attorney Justan Kinsel, IT Specialist Denise Mclain, Administrative Assistant There was a consensus to excuse Commissioners McKinley and Winkler from the meeting. IV. AGENDA: Commissioner Pockell moved, and it was seconded, to approve the agenda for April 30, 2026. There was no discussion. The vote on the motion was four in favor, zero opposed, and the motion passed. V. MINUTES: Commissioner Pockell moved, and it was seconded, to approve the minutes as presented. There was no discussion. The vote on the motion was four in favor, zero opposed, and the motion passed. VI. COMMISSIONER REPORT: Commissioner Weathermon attended the Parks Department Open House regarding a potential expansion into the Ponderosa Neighborhood. He is interested to see how that is going to be reflected in the Park Plan Update. VII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT: Planning Manager Steve Roberge reported that the regular meetings will resume in May. After this presentation, the Planning Date: Planning Commission Minutes Page 2 of 3 Commission will have reviewed all nine of the elements for the Comprehensive Plan Update. After that, there will be a new schedule for meetings for the rest of the year. As a reminder, there will be another review of the plan in July and then in October there will be a recommendation to the City Council for the final update. VIII. PUBLIC COMMENT: Joseph Ghodsee, Spokane Valley, commented on the playground equipment at Edgecliff Park being out-of-date. He has not seen any replacements for a damaged slide that was removed and would like to work with the Parks and Recreation Department to make that happen. DC. COMMISSION BUSINESS: a. Presentation: RPCA Draft Element Review (Presented by Steve Roberge) Mr. Roberge introduced the draft elements and Community Attributes, who would be presenting today. Chapter 6: Transportation - Cole Grisham, Transportation Planner, presented their approach to the element update. This included changes to the updates on the Growth Management Act, updated transportation statistics, alignment with SRTC policies, and necessary updates. Commissioner Dingus asked about the transportation data availability. Chairman Robertson asked about potential congestion being created by bicycle lanes or other updates that should alleviate traffic. Chapter 7: Capital Facilities - Gen Dial gave an update on the Capital Facilities element. This included a general update to align with new facilities and data. New content included reorganization of information and the addition of tables to better present data and information. Chairman Robertson asked if Ms. Dial had a timeline of when the city would be providing the data for the elements. Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, & Open Space - Ms. Dial presented the updates to this element. The Parks Master Plan is also under review and a lot of the information for this element is coming from that plan. Some updates include the addition of maps and graphics, updated conditions assessments, community identified needs, and an updated parks inventory. Level of service recommendations and a parks conditions assessment are not complete but should be available soon. Chairman Robertson asked about the availability of the data that is missing. Commissioner Date: Planning Commission Minutes Page 3 of 3 Dingus asked about the restroom count and whether that included open restrooms or all restrooms as some are not operational. He also asked about the natural areas and if there was some partnership with the County for the Dishman Hills area that is near our city but not owned by our city. Lastly, he asked about utilizing some of the school grounds as parks areas in our inventory as well. Chairman Robertson asked if there was an amount of green space that was required or needed for the city. Mr. Ghodsee made a comment about a partnership with the Dishman Hills Conservatory to utilize that space as green space for the City of Spokane Valley. X. GOOD OF THE ORDER: Chairman Robertson encouraged the commissioners to study the materials they have received and utilize them to make progress on the update and working towards keeping the community happy. XI. ADJOURNMENT: Commissioner Dingus moved, and it was seconded, to adjourn the meeting at7:17 p.m. The vote on the motion was four in favor, zero opposed, and the motion passed. Date Signed Denise MClain, Secretary CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY Request for Planning Commission Action Meeting Date: May 14, 2026 Item: Check all that apply ❑ old business ❑ new business ❑ public hearing ❑ information ® study session ❑ pending legislation AGENDA ITEM TITLE: Study Session: Comprehensive Plan Draft Element Discussion - on Transportation, Capital Facilities, and Parks, Recreation, & Open Space. GOVERNING LEGISLATION: RCW 36.70A. PREVIOUS COMMISSION ACTION: Study sessions 2/12, 2/26, 3/26, 4/2, and 4/30. BACKGROUND: The Planning Commission's May 14' meeting will continue the review and discussion of the draft Transportation, Capital Facilities, and Parks, Recreation, and Open Space chapters of the Comprehensive Plan. We'll need to wrap up discussion at this meeting with the Planning Commission's recommended changes. City Council is scheduled to discuss them on June 2°1 The attached Elements are the same and have not been changed from your April 30e packet. Based on Commission feedback we are working to incorporate additional language in the Parks Element to address partnerships and add discussion on facilities and resources that are not City owned but in or in close proximity to the City of Spokane Valley. We are also working on coordinating and incorporating the Level of Service for the Parks Element and the Multimodal Level of Service for the Transportation Elements from the Parks Master Plan and Active Transportation Plan processes. We hope to have additional details to share at the meeting. If you have father questions or concerns, please feel free to call or email those in advance. The meeting will be structured in a study session format with Commissioners sitting in a rectangle configuration below the dais. MOTION: No action needed. STAFF CONTACT: Steve Roberge, Planning Manager ATTACHMENTS: 1) Element Review Process 2) Chapter 6: Transportation 3) Chapter 7: Capital Facilities 4) Chapter 9: Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Page 1 of 1 jlley�� AI VALLEY 2046: COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE WORKING SESSION 3 Spokane Valley's Comprehensive Plan charts a path for growth through 2046 that reflects community priorities while meeting state requirements. The Plan accommodates new housing and economic development through modest density increases, targeted infill, and expanded housing options, without dramatic changes to neighborhood character. By leveraging existing infrastructure and transit, and addressing environmental risks such as drought and wildfire, the Plan supports intentional, balanced growth that preserves the City's livability and community feel. STATE REQUIREMENTS This periodic update is required under Washington State's Growth Management Act jGMAj. It must be drafted by mid-2026 and adopted by December 31, 2026, with Planning Commission recommendation and City Council approval, to maintain compliance with state law and countywide planning policies. The update process includes robust public participation with workshops, surveys, and opportunities for community input, and integrates state mandates such as housing planning and climate considerations.The update will also be accompanied by a State Environmental Policy Act jSEPAj review using an Environmental Impact Statement (Ell PROCESS SCHEDULE To meet the Commerce deadline in June 2026, we are circulating the draft elements that will compose the Valley 2046 comprehensive plan for review. Below is a timeline for development of the entire comprehensive plan with major milestones. These three review sessions are part of a larger process, and will help shape and refine the final comprehensive plan. Review Session 1 Review Session 2 Review Session 3 • Economic Development Housing Parks • Land Use Racially Disparate Impact Transportation • Preferred Land Use Analysis Capital Facilities Scenario Climate & Resiliency • Natural Resources Public & Private Utilities Finalized Started Commerce Comprehensive June 202S March Aril April Element Draft Plan P P Deadline Draft EIS Review December 2026 f I June 2026 Summer2026 L_________-I Planning Council City Council Three Working Sessions Dates Recommendation Adoption October 2026 December 2026 Quesfions fo keep in mind during your review: • Do the Goals and Policies align with the City's Vision for the future? • Do these elements represent your understanding of the current conditions of the city? • What is the preferred land use scenario to plan toward for 2046? CITY OF SPOKANE VALLEY I VALLEY 2046 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE APRIL 2026 Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Transportation Element Review To: City of Spokane From: DOWL Date: April 23, 2026 Project: Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update Subject: Transportation Element Update Summary Key Themes and Approach The purpose of this memo is to summarize the changes and updates to the Transportation Element of the Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan as well as the remaining sections to be completed. The Transportation Element has been updated to reflect the most current data available but otherwise maintained the content and structure of the chapter per the city's direction. What Has Changed The Transportation Element has been revised throughout to reflect the following policy and data changes and feedback provided by city staff: • Growth Management Act (GMA) 2023 revisions requiring adoption of Multimodal Level of Service (MMLOS) for bicycle, pedestrian, and transit facilities and planning (identified in opening of chapter and applicable modal sections) • Alignment with SRTC Horizon 2050 goals, policies, and data • Updated transportation network statistics based on most recent complete U S Census and SRTC data, including bicycle, pedestrian, transit, freight, and aviation • Validation of completed projects identified in narrative throughout • Added Complete Streets policy to reflect current standards • Thorough copy edit and revision for conciseness Remaining Components The Transportation Element requires further work. The following revisions remain: • Update all maps and figures to reflect current economic, active transportation, and transit geospatial data, including data from the Active Transportation Plan currently in development (drafts included as applicable) Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update • Complete the LOS analysis of the city's road network • Complete the Level of Traffic Stress (LTS) analysis for bicycle and pedestrian networks in accordance with the GMA and city's MMLOS approach • Show the traffic volume difference between proposed land use scenarios based on data provided by the City Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update VI. Transportation Introduction Why the Transportation Element is Important Spokane Valley's diverse mix of land uses requires a robust and well -planned transportation network so that people can travel efficiently for work, shopping, medical, recreational, and other uses. This chapter summarizes the existing state of the transportation system and identifies future challenges related to continued demographic and economic growth. This analysis is a required component of the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan and identifies how the transportation network and the surrounding land uses influence the way people travel and how convenient that travel is for residents, workers, and visitors. Based on this analysis and engagement of Spokane Valley residents, challenges and opportunities for the transportation network are identified that will be addressed as part of the ongoing Comprehensive Plan update. Planning Context The Transportation Element is shaped by several important state and regional laws and policies, as described below: • The Growth Management Act (GMA) identifies transportation as one of the required elements of a Comprehensive Plan. GMA encourages efficient multimodal transportation systems that are consistent with the land use assumptions in the Comprehensive Plan and requires that level of service standards for vehicles and other modes be identified, a forecast of future transportation growth, that new projects be identified, and that there be a feasible financing strategy • The GMA requires cities to adopt concurrency standards and ensure transportation projects, programs, and services needed to serve growth are regionally coordinated and in place either at the time of development or within six years. This occurs through coordination of the transportation system and the adopted land use map and assessment of Level of Service (LOS). • Countywide Planning Policies (CWPP) are defined by Spokane County, the Spokane Regional Transportation Council (SRTC), and local jurisdictions. Related to transportation, the CWPP requires that jurisdiction plans be consistent with each other, and include roadway, pedestrian, bicycle, rail, and air facilities. Additionally, the Transportation Element must identify a transportation concurrency standard to ensure growth and transportation investments are synchronized. • SRTC Congestion Management Program (CMP) identifies several corridors of regional importance in Spokane County, including the Interstate 90, Argonne/Mullan, and Sullivan Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Road corridors in Spokane Valley The CMP defines a set of strategies to address and manage congestion on these major corridors. The CMP is intended to encourage economic vitality, maximize the use of existing infrastructure, improve travel choices and access for all residents, and improve safety • Horizon 2050 is the Metropolitan Transportation Plan developed by SRTC. Horizon 2050 is a long-term, multimodal "blueprint' for transportation aimed at meeting the mobility needs of the area through 2050. It is based on projections for growth in population, housing, and jobs and considers all modes of transportation, such as private vehicles, public transit, bicycling, walking, freight movement, rail, and air travel. Multimodal Level of Service (MMLOS) The GMA (RCW 36.70A) requires that communities establish a level of service (LOS) standard for all locally owned roads and locally or regionally operated transit routes. The GMA gives wide latitude to communities about how to go about establishing LOS standards and does not prescribe any specific methodology. The primary function of establishing an LOS standard is to ensure that the community builds new infrastructure in a way that keeps pace with growth. The GMA, amended by House Bill (HB) 1181 in 2 02 3, ensures that communities adopt LOS standards that focus on multiple modes of transportation and not just vehicle travel. In other words, communities must adopt multimodal LOS or MMLOS standards. Cities are required to comply with the following language: Multimodal level ofservice standardsfor all locally owned arterials, locally and regionally operated transit routes thatserve urban growth areas, state-owned or operated transit routes that serve urban areas if the department of transportation has prepared such standards, and active transportation facilities to serve as a gauge to judge performance of the system andsuccess in helping to achieve thegoals ofthis chapter consistent with environmental justice., The language above commits Spokane Valley to adopting MMLOS standards for bicycles, pedestrians, and transit modes, each of which are identified in the applicable sections below. Current Conditions Travel Patterns in Spokane Valley and the Region Since the last Comprehensive Plan Update in 2017, the City has witnessed significant growth in population and employment. With more people living and working in the City, i WSDOT. 2026. Multimodal Level of Service Interim Guidance. Retrieved March 2026 from: hum //wsdot.wagov/engineering-standards/olanning-guidance/land-use-transportation-olmning Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update there are also more people traveling to and from Spokane Valley daffy. These trends emphasize the importance of investing in transportation infrastructure and transportation demand management (TDM) strategies but understanding how people currently travel to and through the City is also important to establish planning frameworks that respond efficiently to future transportation challenges. One framework relates to the arrangement of uses throughout the City and is represented in the City's land use map. For example, clusters of commercial land uses are likely to generate higher traffic volumes during peak morning and evening travel times, while retailers may attract additional trips on weekends, when many workers use their discretionary time for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Residential uses, by contrast, may prefer to be located away from major transportation corridors or may have infrastructure needs that scale with residential densities. In this way, there is a dynamic relationship between land use patterns and transportation networks, with each affecting the development of the other. Other planning frameworks detailed in the elements of the Comprehensive Plan (e.g., capital facilities planning, economic development strategies) also adopt a similarly dynamic relationship with transportation. Based on current land use patterns and the 2020 US Census,= population densities in Spokane Valley are greatest south of Interstate 90 and between Argonne Road and Sullivan Road. However, some areas north of Interstate 90 and east of Sullivan Road have areas with dense housing as well. In some cases, these areas are part of larger Census tracts that include parcels of undeveloped land, leading to lower population density area wide. Employment -generating uses in Spokane Valley are concentrated at major Interstate 90 interchanges, in the Spokane Business and Industrial Park and industrial areas south of Felts Field, and in and around the Spokane Valley Mall. The jobs in areas north of Interstate 90 tend to be more industrial in nature while south of Interstate 90 office and retail jobs are more prevalent. The map in Figure 19 illustrates the relationship between residential and commercial land use patterns. The map in Figure 19 provides some context for how land use patterns affect travel patterns in Spokane Valley, and it implies that transportation challenges may be alleviated when there are opportunities to live and work in transit -accessible or other concentrated mixed -use clusters. However, many residents live outside Spokane Valley but commute to jobs within the city and vice versa. For these residents and workers who need to make regular trips into and out of Spokane Valley, the locations that they travel to and from are important context for decision makers as they prioritize improvements to transportation infrastructure. The maps in Figures 20 and 21 represent data from the U.S. Census x US Census Borean 2020. 2020 Census Demographic Data Map Viewer. Retrieved March 2026 from: httys: //mays.geo.censm.gov/ddmv/may.htmI Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Bureau's Longitudinal Employer -Household Dynamics dataset and illustrate the number of all Spokane Valley residents that commute to jobs in other places, as well as all Spokane Valley workers who live in other places. In 2 02 3, the U S Census estimated 42,773 employees commuted into the city from other communities, while 33,770 commuted out of the city, and 14,233 commuted within the city3 Where clear transportation corridors emerge for these commuting workers, effective transportation planning is particularly important. This travel pattern highlights the need for network development, as the freeway system alone cannot accommodate this demand in the future. Travel demand strategies will also be an important aspect in dealing with increasing traffic. To understand how well current transportation infrastructure responds to these land use patterns, this element will explore and assess the various components of Spokane Valley's transportation network. Figure 19. Map of Employment Density vs. Housing Density, Spokane Valley, 2015 Spokane Valley's Transportation Network A transportation network includes infrastructure to support several modes of transportation, including motor vehicles like cars, motorcycles, and buses, as well as bicycles and walking. For the network to function efficiently, investments must be targeted to ensure that residents and workers have multiple transportation options that offer affordable and effective ways to get around the area. Figure 20. Journey to Work: Where Spokane Valley Employees Live, (date) Figure 21. Journey to Work: Where Spokane Valley Residents Go to Work (date) The U.S. Census Bureau tracks how Spokane Valley residents travel to work —a statistic known as mode share.- As shown in Figure 22, 76.7% of Spokane Valley residents drove to work alone (SOV), while an additional 7.8% carpooled (HOV), 1.2%of Spokane Valley workers rode public transit to work. Of the remaining 14.3% of workers who reside in Spokane Valley, most worked from home (11.5%) while others walked, biked, took taxis, rode motorcycles, or used other means. s EWU Institute for Public Policy and Economic Analysis. 2026. Spokane Trends: Transportation. Retrieved March 2026 from: httos: //sookanetrends.oce/index.cfin "US Census Bureau 2026. 2024American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates: Means of Transportation to work Retrieved March 2026 from: httos://datacens is.eov/profile/Spokane Valley city, Washineton?e=160XX000SS367167#employment Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update sas Figure 22. Spokane Valley Transportation Mode Share • Drive alone • Carpool • Public transportati on • Walked • Bioyde • Taxicab, motorcycle, or other means • Worked from home Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2024) Functional Classification of Roadways Streets function as a network. The efficiency of a street network is dependent upon how the streets can complement each other to serve different trip types. A gridded network typically provides improved connectivity for all forms of transportation by reducing the distance necessary to travel and providing alternative routes. Streets are described by a functional classification, which is a system of categories for streets and highways based on the character of service they are intended to provide. A proper balance of road classifications is necessary to effectively serve a mix of land uses and modes of travel. Spokane Valley currently classifies its roadways into principal arterials, minor arterials, collector arterials, and local streets. Descriptions and examples of these classifications are shown in Figure 23. The road network in central and south Spokane Valley is composed of gridded streets, a reflection of the urban form during Spokane Valley's early development. Outside the major commercial corridors, the road network is primarily connected via principal and minor arterials, with large gaps between streets and many unconnected residential cul-de-sacs and loop roads. This layout of large blocks creates a less friendly environment for walking, bicycling, and public transit since it can increase the distance between a home and a Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update destination or transit stop. The map in Figure 24 depicts Spokane Valley's roadways by classification, as well as other critical transportation infrastructure. Figure 23. Functional Classification of Roadways ROADWAYTYPE DESCRIPTION PURPOSE EXAMPLE Provide high speed, free flow Interstate/ Highway travel between regional • Interstate 90 destinations. A roadway that serves through • E. Trent Ave. Principal Arterial trips and connects Spokane Valley • Pines Rd./ SR 27 with the rest of the area. • E. Sprague Ave. Minor Arterial Minor arterial streets provide inter -neighborhood connections, transit access, and serve both • E. Broadway Ave. local and through trips. Can • S. Evergreen Rd. accommodate pedestrian and • E. 16th Ave. bicycle travel if there are sidewalks and bike lanes/paths. Collectors Arterial Collectors distribute trips between local streets and arterials. Canbe • Vista Rd. good for pedestrian and bicycle • E. 4th Ave. travel if there are sidewalks and • E. 24th Ave. bike lanes/paths. Local Streets Local streets provide circulation and access within residential • E. Valleyway Ave. neighborhoods. Good for bicycle • Long Rd. and pedestrian travel. Figure 24. Spokane Valley's Transportation Network Pedestrian Facilities Residents and visitors in Spokane Valley walk as part of their daffy travel for many reasons. Children attending school, commuters taking the bus or connecting with a carpool to get to work, and senior citizens making midday trips all require safe pedestrian amenities. Sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps, and small curb radii are all key features in creating a safe and welcoming environment for people to walk. To that end, providing buffers between sidewalks and lanes of traffic, such as landscaping or on -street parking, can also increase safety and comfort for pedestrians, particularly on arterial streets. The images in Figure 2 S show some of these features on Spokane Valley streets. Figure 2 S. Photos of Existing Pedestrian Facilities in Spokane Valley Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Sidewalks are present on both sides of most principal and minor arterials in Spokane Valley as well as some collectors. The City has also prioritized providing sidewalks near schools, libraries, transit locations, and trailheads. While quiet residential streets may not require sidewalks for a safe pedestrian environment (except for key routes to schools, parks, or other similar community generators/destinations), some arterials lack sidewalk coverage, such as Mission Avenue, 4th Avenue, and Adams Road. Plans for adding to the sidewalk network focus on filling existing gaps on arterials. In addition to sidewalks and crosswalks, Spokane Valley also has paved shared -use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists. The Centennial Trail provides a dedicated east -west connection along a shared -use path. The trail is part of a regional connection through Spokane Valley and to the Washington -Idaho state border. Spokane Valley is actively working on extending the Appleway Trail, with its current western terminus at Farr Road and expected future connection to the North Spokane Corridor. The City has also identified other opportunities for shared -use paths along former and active rail lines. The planned network will eventually create an interconnected system linking the Appleway Trail, the Centennial Trail, and Dishman Hills Natural Area as part of a regional pathway network. Spokane Valley has a well -developed grid of arterial streets spaced one-half mile apart, which is typical of communities built in the post -World War II era. While this system is efficient for vehicle travel, crossing major streets like Sprague Avenue or Pines Road can be difficult on foot or bike since signalized crosswalks are spread far apart. Additionally, crossings of Interstate 90 and Trent Avenue are limited and are often located at busy interchanges or intersections. These gaps in signalized crossing locations isolate parts of Spokane Valley and lead to people driving for short trips that they could typically make on foot or via transit. The City's sidewalk and trail network helps people make short trips on foot, by bike, or to transit instead of driving. Completing sidewalk gaps on major streets and improving crossings makes walking and rolling safer and easier for everydaytrips. Expanding connected shared -use paths improves access to transit and regional destinations. Over time, these improvements can reduce driving, lower vehicle -related emissions, and improve local air quality. The map in Figure 26 illustrates a range of pedestrian facilities in Spokane Valley, as well as recommended improvements from the most recent Active Transportation Plan, developed in 2 02 6, which is the City's adopted long-term bicycle and pedestrian plan. The City uses the WSDOT MMLOS measure of Level of Traffic Stress for pedestrian facilities and planning. Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Figure 26. Map of Existing Pedestrian Facilities A E Byebw G,Ich Rd N Y 2c � zeo Q E ey Ave — J _ i E NI ai2'n Ave _ rJ •E e.oltlw., Ave y 11�1 , + - -I` � SPia9ue�Ave L gJ- - - Spokafi en - i � I 3tE te13 Av' E 32ntl Ave b s� (] City Boundary — Shared -Use Path — Existing Sidewalk — Existing Separated Sidewalk Source: City of Spokane Valley, 2026. Existing Bicycle Facilities Bicycle facilities are an important element in any transportation network. Bicyclists inthe Spokane Valley can utilize a variety of facilities, including vehicle travel lanes, shared -use paths, designated bike lanes, and bike friendly routes to reach their destination as shown in Figure 27. However, gaps in the network create an environment in which cyclists must navigate through vehicle traffic or difficult arterial crossings to complete their journey, decreasing safety for motorized and non -motorized travelers alike. While the City has trails and bike lanes that form a spine of north -south and east -west connections, some of these facilities are not continuous and require bicyclists to merge in and out of vehicle traffic. Figure 27 also shows Spokane Valley's long-term plan for the bicycle network to address the gaps described above. The existing roadway geometry in many parts of Spokane Valley includes wide lanes, on - street parking, and a high number of driveways, all of which may decrease a bicyclist's Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 10 perceived level of comfort. Some corridors, such as Sprague Avenue and Mission Avenue, have striped bike lanes but also high vehicle speeds and volumes. The map in Figure 27 illustrates a range of bicycle facilities in Spokane Valley, as well as recommended improvements from the most recent Active Transportation Plan, developed in 2026, which is the City's adopted long-term bicycle and pedestrian plan. The City uses the WSDOT MMLOS measure of Level of Traffic Stress for bicycle facilities and planning. Figure 27. Map of Existing Bicycle Facilities E Bigelow GUIch Rd N K zg° p E IeY Ave�11✓/^I11 L Z M yea p E Broad A. �T 1 La Boa a Spokane 80 Vahl ey I f1h E 32nd A e " OCity Boundary —Shared Use Path — On -Street Bicycle Lane Shared Lane — Buffered Bike Lane Source: City of Spokane Valley, 2 02 6 Public Transit Public transit, provided by Spokane Transit Authority (STA) via buses and vans, serves as a key component of the transportation network that connects residents with employment centers, public places, and regional destinations. Many Spokane Valley residents and Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 11 employees use public transit for trips around and outside of the city Figure 28 highlights the route and stop coverage of STA in Spokane Valley Additionally, the map highlights the Pence -Cole Valley and Mirabeau Point transit centers that provide links to the regional transit system. STAB Route 9 operates between downtown Spokane and Spokane Valley and runs every 15 minutes during weekday peak and day times. Route 9 is the third busiest route that STA operates, with more than 836, 000 passenger boardings annually: STA has five regular routes serving Spokane Valley and providing connections to Spokane, Millwood, and Liberty Lake. One high-speed regional route provides access on freeways between Liberty Lake Park and Ride to downtown Spokane and further west. These routes serve 7,000 riders per day during the week and cover most of Spokane Valley's major destinations, including the Spokane Valley Mall, the Valley Hospital Medical Center, the Argonne Village Shopping Center, the Spokane Industrial Park, and many area schools. The City uses the STA MMLOS measure of Level of Traffic Stress for transit facilities and planning. Figure 28. Map of Existing and Recommended Transit Facilities Movement of Freight Freight and goods movement is a vital element of the transportation network. Everyone is directly impacted by how goods are delivered to distribution centers, stores, and homes. Spokane Valley is central to a high volume of freight movement owing to the City's major retail and industrial properties. Trucks move millions of tons of freight via Interstate 90 and Trent Avenue throughout the region and across the state. Several arterials in Spokane Valley also support high levels of freight traffic, including Argonne Road, as well as portions of Sprague Avenue, Appleway Boulevard, Sullivan Road, Faucher Way, and Broadway Avenue, and Barker Road. Spokane Valley's truck freight corridors are rated at Tier 1 (T1), Tier 2 (T2), or Tier 3 (T3) based on the annual freight tonnage they support. Tier classifications are based on the following amount of goods: - • T-1: More than 10 million tons per year. 5 Spokane Transit. 2024, Fixed Route Performance Report. Retrieved March 2026 from: httos://w ..sookanetransit.com/wo-content/uploads/2025/05/2024-Annual-Performance-Reoort- updated ndfv c WSDOT. 2022. Washington State Freight System Plan (Appendix D). Retrieved March 2026 from: hors://wsdot.wagov/sites/default/files/2022-11/AooendixD-FSP-Freight-Systems nodf Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 12 • T-2: Between 4 to 10 million tons per year. • T-3: Between 300,000 to 4 million tons per year. Spokane Valley has street design standards that support freight movement and are consistent with SRTC's regional freight network. Any proposed changes to access or roadway design along the regional freight network are reviewed to ensure they do not hinder freight movement. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) and Union Pacific Railroad (U P) operate the primary rail lines within the city Both companies have connections to the Washington - Idaho border while BNSF's route represents the company's northern transcontinental line connecting the West Coast to Chicago and the Midwest. These rail lines help form the industrial corridor north of I-90 that supports many jobs in Spokane Valley, in addition to the UP line that runs north of Sprague and along Dishman-Mica Road south through the City limits. To support freight mobility and improve safety at railroad crossings, SRTC finalized the Bridging the Valley (BTV) project in 2006. The goal of BTV is to separate vehicle traffic from train traffic in the 42-mile corridor between Spokane, Washington, and Athol, Idaho. The separation of railroad and roadway grades in this corridor —which includes 75 railroad/ roadway crossings —is intended to promote future economic growth, improve traffic movement, and traffic safety. BTV is integrated into the Horizon 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan. Many Bridging the Valley projects have been completed or are programmed in Spokane Valley, while some at grade rail crossings remain. While BTV is a long-term, unfunded project, Spokane Valley continues to pursue key grade separation projects along the BNSF mainline. Aviation Most air travel in the Spokane Region is handled through the Spokane International Airport, located between Spokane and Airway Heights. Felts Field, a general aviation airport, is located at the north end of Faucher Way past the western edge of Spokane Valley Felts Field has 70,000 annual take -offs and landings and is served by several charter services.? In 2007, the City adopted development regulations to establish an airport overlay zone to protect Felts Field from encroachment from incompatible uses. The airport overlay zone -imposed height restrictions, land use restrictions, noise impact restrictions on certain uses, and provided for the continuing presence of lawful non -conforming uses. Accordingly, the City has met GMA requirements related to general aviation airports. ] Spokane Airports. 2026. About Felts Field (KSFF). Retrieved March 2026 from: buys:/ /feltsfieldsnokaneaimorts.net/sff-info / Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 13 Motor Vehicles About 85% of Spokane Valley residents use motor vehicles as their primary mode of transportation to work. Moreover, many non-resident travelers pass through Spokane Valley via Interstate 90 or park at the Pence -Cole Valley or Mirabeau Point Transit Centers and take public transit into Spokane. The analysis of Spokane Valley's congestion for motorists is based on traffic counts conducted by the City in 2024 as well as a household travel survey and related modelling conducted by SRTC in 2 02 2. m Each of the major roadways in Spokane Valley were evaluated based on their ability to accommodate P.M. peak hour demand with their existing width and lane configuration. Figure 30 displays average daffy traffic counts. The corridors were scored into one of six levels of service (LOS) categories based on the volume of traffic they support during the P.M. peak hour compared to typical volume thresholds for urban arterial roadways. Levels from LOS A to LOS F correspond to a range of completely uncongested to highly congested conditions. Figure 29 describes the LOS definitions laid out in the Highway Capacity Manual,9which is the methodology applied to Spokane Valley's transportation network. Figure 29. Level of Service Definitions Level of Service Description A Free -flowing conditions B Stable operating conditions C Stable operating conditions, but individual motorists are affected by the interaction with other motorists. D High density of motorists, but stable flow E Near -capacity operations, with speeds reduced to a low but uniform speed F Over capacity, with long delays Source: Highway Capacity Manual (2022) The LOS standards that must be met within the City are as follows: • LOS D for major arterial corridors: s SRTC. 2024. Travel Demand Documentation. Retrieved March 2026 from: httos: / /data- srtc hub ercgis com/doc=eats/ae4053fl6O6b4ld89efdO49c46a3bf8f/about a National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. 2022. Highway Capacity Manual 7th Edition: A Guide far Multimodal MohilityAnalysis. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 14 o Argonne/Mullan between Trent Avenue and Appleway Boulevard o Pines Road between Trent Avenue and 8th Avenue. o Evergreen Road between Indiana Avenue and 8th Avenue. o Sullivan Road between Wellesley Avenue and 8th Avenue. o Sprague Avenue/Appleway Boulevard between Faucher Road and Park Road • LOS D for signalized intersections not on major arterial corridors. • LOSE for unsignalized intersections (LOS F is acceptable if the peak hour traffic signal warrant is not met). For the arterial corridors, individual intersection LOS results will be monitored, but intersection LOS will not form the basis for evaluating transportation concurrency or State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) impacts. Rather, the corridor LOS along its entire length will form the basis for evaluating the performance of these congested corridors. The rationale for evaluating corridor LOS is to align with the SRTC CMP and to acknowledge that while some intersections along the corridor may operate at LOS E or F conditions, the overall corridor performance will be improved to be LOS D overall. This approach avoids the severe cost and property impacts associated with some intersection improvements, when other more cost-effective approaches could be employed elsewhere on the corridor. The LOS for major arterial corridors should be analyzed using the methodology defined by the SRTC as part of the CMP or similar method approved by Spokane Valley. Figure 30. Average Daily Traffic, Spokane Valley Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update is Sources: City of Spokane Valley (2024) :r: Illlt _ MAI � t �. ®.may -"00� # someNO Ma :a ;s= MMQI HIM \II Why would the City's Transportation Element reduce the LOS standard in some places? The reasoning is complex. While Spokane Valley is committed to mobility for all, there are practical considerations related to cost constraints, right-of-way limitations, and additional multimodal requirements that the City may not be in position to provide. Establishing LOS standards also depends on peak hour versus off peak hour traffic volumes as well as managing and utilizing unused system capacity Furthermore, the State's concurrency requirement means that the City must be able to maintain its stated LOS policy to allow for development. Setting a LOS standard that is unrealistic for the above reasons puts Spokane Valley in jeopardy of being able to permit development, which would be counter to the economic development goals outlined in this Comprehensive Plan. As highways of statewide significance (HSS), Interstate 90 and the ramp intersections with City streets have LOS standards set by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT). The City's LOS standards do not apply to these State facilities. While the City's LOS standards are based on intersection operations, it is impractical to calculate intersection LOS for the hundreds of intersections around the City Therefore, as is typical for many Comprehensive Plan Transportation Elements, LOS is summarized at Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 16 the street -segment level. In general, the intersections along the street segments can be expected to operate at the same LOS as the segment. Spokane Valley's roadways operate with moderate congestion on some arterials during the P.M. peak hour. Interstate 90 can be congested during peak hours, and some motorists may choose to take City streets instead of Interstate 90 to avoid congestion. This overflow can lead to congestion on City roadways that serve interchanges, such as Argonne Road, Mullan Road, Pines Road (SR 27), Sprague Avenue, Sullivan Road, and Barker Road. Except for these few instances of more severe congestion, most roadways operate within Spokane Valley's LOS standards. Figure 31 shows the existing LOS results for Spokane Valley. Figure 31. Existing Level of Service for Spokane Valley Roadways (Date) These congestion levels around the City are common for suburban arterials during the PM peak hour. The delay will be disruptive for a brief portion of the day but is also indicative of a well -used roadway network. Principal arterials that operate at LOS A through C during the peak period may be a sign of an overbuilt system, which can be costly for a community to construct and maintain. These large, underutilized streets also can be a deterrent for other modes because of high speeds, perceived safety concerns, and difficulty crossing. In addition to evaluating current conditions, this Transportation Element forecasts future traffic volumes, assuming the development described in the Land Use Element. Figure 32 shows the forecast (year 2050) average daily traffic (ADT) on the streets in Spokane Valley Overall, traffic volumes are expected to increase as there is additional development both in Spokane Valley and the surrounding communities. Growth in traffic is expected to be particularly pronounced in the southern and eastern sections of the City In addition to growth in vehicle traffic, there is also expected to be significant growth in pedestrian, bicycle, and transit usage in the future. In fact, due to the planned expansion of the non - auto infrastructure, we anticipate higher growth rates for non -auto modes compared to auto traffic, which is consistent with the expectations of Horizon 2050, SRTC's long range transportation and land use vision. Figure 32. Forecast Average Daily Traffic for Spokane Valley Roadways (date) Figure 33 shows the 2050 vehicle(?) LOS conditions on Spokane Valley's roadways, assuming completion of the improvement projects listed in the Environmental Impact Statement prepared for the Comprehensive Plan. As shown, LOS in 2050 conditions are forecast to be like today's condition as Spokane Valley is committed to managing traffic congestion in the future. Figure 33. Forecast Level of Service (LOS) for Spokane Valley Roadways (date) Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 17 Under HB 1181, the City of Spokane Valley will focus on reducing traffic -related greenhouse gas emissions by addressing congestion on major corridors and improving traffic flow to cut idling and stop -and -go conditions. The City will also evaluate how motor -vehicle emissions affect air quality, particularly in overburdened neighborhoods, and direct roadway improvements that help lower pollution levels. These efforts support cleaner air and a more efficient motor -vehicle network. Approach to the Transportation Element Challenges and Opportunities In 202 S, Spokane Valley hosted a series of public meetings to solicit feedback from the public on a variety of topics, including the performance of the transportation system. During this public feedback period, the City collected feedback on what parts of the transportation system are working well, transportation problems/concerns, and what Spokane Valley's transportation future should look like. This feedback, combined with the results of the existing conditions analysis and updates to local and state policies, highlights challenges and opportunities for the transportation system, as listed below. Complete Streets The Spokane Valley City Council adopted a Complete Streets Policy in 2021 (Ordinance Number 21-012) which supports the practice of planning and building streets to accommodate all users, including pedestrians, transit users, cyclists, and motorists. The policy requires that the city consider multimodal transportation infrastructure that aims to best serve its users while prioritizing safety, access and mobility, protecting the environment, and preserving the character of each community Considerations may include revised street configurations, sidewalks and crosswalks, lighting, bicycle accommodations, transit shelters, signage, or other infrastructure elements. There are some exceptions to the City's Complete Streets principles because not all roadways are suitable for these components. These exceptions are outlined in the City's policy. Improving Transit Accessibility STAprovides public transit in Spokane Valley However, transit service is minimal in parts of the City, requiring that people drive to reach their destinations. Several members of the public expressed a desire for more extensive transit coverage. Relieving Traffic Congestion The public identified concerns over traffic congestion in some corridors, including Argonne Road, Pines Road, Sullivan Road, and Barker Road, particularly around the Interstate 90 Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 18 interchanges. It is the City's policy to consider strategies such as transportation demand management, access restrictions, design modifications, transit enhancements, and intelligent transportation systems prior to adding new lane capacity to the system, particularly for single -occupancy vehicles. The implementation of this policy is important as the City continues to grow within its current boundaries and the pressures on the transportation network (i.e. congestion) continue to grow over time. Community and Economic Development Priorities Increasing Bicycle and Pedestrian Connectivity Many residential streets do not have curbs, gutters, or sidewalks. While some streets are low -volume and may not need these features, key access routes to schools, transit stops, and civic facilities could benefit from enhancements. Spokane Valley has a strong pedestrian and bicycle plan. The City has been expanding the trail network by leveraging regional and federal funding. Long blocks and high traffic speeds can make crossing major streets between protected crossings difficult. This makes traveling by transit, walking/biking to stores, or traveling to parks and schools difficult. Supporting Economic Development The City has a robust grid of major streets and can support a considerable amount of additional private development. Good connections to the national freeway and railway network also support economic development opportunities. The City's economic development initiatives require a transportation network that is efficient and safe and that reflects desired development patterns. There are strong economic development opportunities on Sprague Avenue. This is an Urban Transportation Corridor, as defined by SRTC, and both the City and the Region see Sprague Avenue as an area with higher density development supported by a strong multimodal transportation network that includes high-performance transit, better bicycle/pedestrian connections, and convenient auto access to new infill development. Accommodating Freight Operations The regions position on a major freight rail corridor increases its exposure to the risk of train collisions and delays caused by at -grade crossings. Continuing to invest in rail infrastructure, especially where train and other freight operations interact directly with other travel modes, is essential. Enhancing Streetscapes Several members of the public identified desired improvements to the City's " streetscape;' which includes landscaping, building frontages, medians, and others. Suggestions to improve the streetscape included more street trees, building frontage improvements/more Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 19 5-93 private landscaping, and "gateway" features in medians and public spaces on the side of streets. Thoughtful consideration on the enhancement of streetscapes is needed for the City to accurately accommodate long-term maintenance requirements while satisfying the desires of the community. New and Emerging Best Practices Modernizing Infrastructure Identifying any infrastructure that needs or will need updating or replacement prior to the point at which those investments become critical will allow Spokane Valley to budget accordingly and find funding to avoid infrastructure failures. In an era when many pieces of infrastructure have aged and budgets are constrained, this planning is valuable to the City, its residents, and employees. Consistent with HB 1181 and regional guidance, Spokane Valley will modernize its transportation system by focusing on congestion management and improved traffic flow on major corridors to reduce vehicle emissions and air quality impacts. Rather than expanding roadway capacity, the City will prioritize operational and multimodal strategies that reduce delay, idling, and support reliable system performance. Planning efforts will also address long-term resilience by evaluating roadway vulnerability to hazards, preparing for increased electric vehicle use through charging infrastructure, and prioritizing investments in areas most affected by poor air quality Maintaining Cost Effectiveness Compared to other cities in the region, residents highlighted the good state of repair with respect to street and bridge maintenance. This results in lower overall costs to reconstruct streets and more opportunities to invest in other City priorities. The City will continue to prioritize street and bridge maintenance and will continue to make informed decisions about budgeting and capital expenditures. Linking Multimodal Systems Spokane Valley will address Complete Streets by focusing on how well different transportation modes connect and function together. Gaps in facilities, safety concerns, and missing last -mile connections that limit access between walking, biking, transit, and driving will be identified and addressed as part of transportation projects. The City's adopted Complete Streets Policy (Ordinance 21-012), along with its adopted Street Standards, will guide these efforts during planning and design. Projects will consider the needs of all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, motorists, freight, and emergency services, while applying practical, context -sensitive solutions that reflect right-of-way constraints and existing development. When Complete Streets elements cannot be included, the City will document exceptions in accordance with the adopted policy. Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 20 HB1181 Climate and Environment Spokane Valley will integrate climate and resiliency considerations into the motor -vehicle system by applying strategies to cut emissions from congested corridors. Reducing stop -and -go traffic, smoothing traffic flow, and managing peak -hour congestion will help lower greenhouse gas emissions tied to motor -vehicle use. Spokane Valley will also plan for broader adoption of electric vehicles by allowing charging opportunities for increased Electric Vehicle (EV) demand. Major roads will be evaluated for vulnerability to hazards and extreme weather events, and improvements will focus on keeping these corridors open during climate -related events. To reduce inequitable impacts from motor -vehicle pollution, the City will assess how traffic emissions affect overburdened neighborhoods and prioritize roadway upgrades that lessen these burdens. Transportation Goals and Policies Goals T-G1 Ensure that the transportation system and investments in transportation infrastructure are designed to improve quality of life and support economic development priorities. T-G2 Ensure that transportation planning efforts reflect anticipated land use patterns and support identified growth opportunities. T-G3 Strive to reduce the number of serious injury/fatality collisions to zero. T-G4 Provide for safe and efficient freight mobility T-GS Maintain and enhance a comprehensive multimodal transportation system that promotes, supports, and improves the safe, efficient, reliable movement of people, vehicles, and goods. T-G6 Support asset management strategies that keep life -cycle costs as low as possible for roadway, bridge, bicycle, pedestrian, transit, and technology infrastructure supporting traffic management and operations systems. Policies T-P1 Continue to pursue funding for the BNSF mainline separation projects of Bridging the Valley program to reduce rail/vehicle collisions, improve emergency access, eliminate vehicle waiting times, reduce noise, and improve traffic flow. Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 21 T-P2 Consider neighborhood traffic and livability conditions and address potential adverse impacts of public and private projects during the planning, designing, permitting, and construction phases. T-P3 Ensure that a robust street and bridge preservation program is funded and implemented. T-P4 Support voluntary efforts to beautify local and regional transportation corridors. T-P5 Restrict high-speed traffic from residential neighborhoods. T-P6 Work collaboratively with developers to ensure that areas experiencing new development are well served by multi -modal transportation options. T-P7 Provide access to sources of current information about transportation options in Spokane Valley and the region. T-P8 Support local, regional,state, and federal transportation safety programs. T-P9 Provide and maintain quality street, sidewalk, and shared -use path surfaces that provide a safe environment for all users. T-P10 Develop a citywide trail system that provides improved access and linkages between Spokane Valley's existing trails, neighborhoods, and community amenities. T-P11 Designate appropriate freight corridors to ensure that streets/ intersections are designed to safely accommodate trucks and other modes. T-P12 Provide alternate truck routes to minimize the effects of congestion in major commercial and industrial areas. T-P13 Evaluate opportunities to improve multimodal connectivity in all transportation planning projects. T-P14 Identify and implement opportunities to improve data collection and performance monitoring for transportation in Spokane Valley T-P15 Encourage all Commute Trip Reduction employers in the City to achieve travel reduction goals. T-P16 Provide a supportive transportation network for expansion of general aviation and freight uses at Felts Field. T-P17 Use transportation demand management techniques and technologies to move people, vehicles, and goods safely and efficiently throughout the City's transportation system T-P18 Invest in infrastructure beautification, including landscaping, art, and walking paths. Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 22 T-P19 Coordinate with Spokane Regional Transportation Council and Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency on actions to reduce vehicle air pollution emissions through regular vehicle inspections and to lobby federal agencies for appropriate air pollution standards that balance public health and economic growth. T-P20 Implement multimodal level of service for citywide planning efforts, particularly focusing on the quality of pedestrian, bicycle, and transit facilities. Strategies T-Sl Coordinate transportation planning efforts with other jurisdictions to ensure that Spokane Valley retailers and neighborhoods are well served. T-S2 Identify and fund key areas for beautification and coordinate capital improvement projects. T- S3 Work with Spokane Transit Authority (STA) to support transit amenity improvements at strategic locations. T-S4 Fund roadway, bridge, bicycle, pedestrian, and transit infrastructure preservation at the lowest life cycle cost to most efficiently use limited funds. Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 23 Appendix C. 20-Year Transportation Improvement Program Draft Outline I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 24 Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Capital Facilities Element Review To City of Spokane Valley From: SCJ Alliance Date: April 23, 2026 Project: Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update Subject Capital Facilities Element Update Summary Purpose The purpose of this memo is to summarize how staff used the State's periodic review checklist to update the Capital Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan in accordance with the Growth Management Act (GMA) periodic review requirements. This update is required under Revised Code of Washington 36.70A 130, which mandates that jurisdictions fully planning under the GMA conduct a periodic review and update of their comprehensive plans and development regulations to ensure continued compliance with state law. Approach Per the City's request, this review updated data and statutory changes while keeping the majority of the content as it appeared and was written in the last Comprehensive Plan Update. The updates included in this document reflect that approach and were kept to high- level review of data updates to reflect current demand, usage, and projections to support growth identified in the city-wide planning process. Role of the Periodic Review Checklist The GMA periodic review checklist is designed to assist local governments in evaluating whether their comprehensive plans and development regulations reflect changes in state law since the last update cycle, address current local conditions and growth projections, maintain consistency across plan elements, and align with Countywide Planning Policies (CPPs), where applicable. Staff used the checklist as a framework to audit and evaluate the Capital Facilities Element and identify areas requiring updates. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Changes from 2016 Capital Facilities and Public Services Element Content updates were made throughout the chapter to reflect current data for city -owned facilities and external, contracted service providers. Updated information is reflected in this draft; some data is still being obtained. The facilities inventory was restructured into two tables distinguishing city -owned facilities from contracted service providers, with anew lifecycle and program renewal column added to each. Anew table of city -owned facilities was added that references the 6-Year CFP, Parks Master Plan, Transportation Improvement Program, and Stormwater Management Plan as governing functional plans. ♦ Level of service content was expanded for several facility types. New LOS tables were added for Parks and Recreation, Transportation, Stormwater, and Fire and Emergency Services. The Transportation section was also updated to include a new subsection on transportation impact fees, referencing the applicable state statute and city municipal code. LOS data for Parks and Recreation and Transportation multimodal standards are still pending from the Parks Master Plan and Transportation Dement updates respectively. ♦ The Challenges and Opportunities section was substantially reorganized according to staff feedback ♦ The funding sources table was removed as it was found to not be comprehensive for all divisions of capital facilities management. The content is now organized by category with a summary overview table and descriptions for each of the asset divisions A "Capital Improvements Overview" table summarizes the key assets planned within the next five years for public safety, public works, transportation, and parks and recreation. o As transportation represents the bulk of the budgeted improvements, the 2026- 2031 TIP is summarized in Table 4, with the aggregated capital costs and funding sources. ♦ Ongoing grade separation projects as a challenge and opporturnty was revised to be more concise and refer to the transportation element for additional context. ♦ Capital Facilities and Climate Planning Alignment as a challenge and opporhmity was revised to focus on the concurrency requirements of both the GMA and County CWPPs. ♦ 'Develop a Coordinated Approach to Asset Management' was added as a best practice. Feedback indicated that, as Spokane Valley does not formally coordinate asset management via a dedicated division or governing planning document, exploring a pilot asset management program could be added as a recommended best practice. ♦ Goals and Policies were reviewed with CWPPs and the GMA periodic checklist and found to primarily be in alignment Several policies were added to more fully align with goals of the GMA and the new Climate Dement Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update New Proposed Policies CF-P23 Plan, maintain, and coordinate transportation facilities through the City's Six -Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and long-range planning efforts to ensure transportation infrastructure maintains acceptable Level of Service and supports regional mobility CF-P24 Incorporate multimodal connectivity into the planning, design, and improvement of transportation facilities and corridors, ensuring that multimodal Level of Service standards are applied to arterials, transit routes, and active transportation facilities consistent with WSDOT and SRTC guidelines. CF-P25 Support the use of green infrastructure and low impact development (LID) practices on public properties to manage and control stormwater, reduce runoff impacts, and protect water quality. CF-P26 Continue to implement the Operations and Maintenance program and Energy Management Plan for City owned Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings. Remaining Components The Capital Facilities Element will require the following additions for completion: ♦ Brief description and reference to the Transportation and Multimodal Level of Service Analysis results as required by the GMA. ♦ Brief description and reference to the Parks Master Plan Level of Service Analysis results as required by the GMA ♦ Information pertaining to future public safety capital improvements as was brought up in the TAC meeting. ♦ Review and update of all graphics and figure numbers. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update .. Chapter VII. Capital Facilities and Public Services Introduction Why the Capital Facilities Element is Important The Capital Facilities Element guides the City in managing its investments related to facilities needed for growth and responds to specific Growth Management Act (GMA) requirements. The element relies on a Capital Facilities Plan (CFP), which helps the City use its limited funding wisely and efficiently, and ensures that facilities are in place when growth occurs. The CFP includes a six -year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) with estimated costs and proposed methods of financing. The plan also anticipates needed investments to support the City's economic development initiatives. Planning Context Per the GMA, specifically RCW 36.70A.070 (3) (a), states public facilities are required to be inventoried. Per WAC 365-196-415, at a minimum, they should include water systems, sanitary sewer systems, stormwater facilities, reclaimed water facilities, schools, parks and recreational facilities, and police and fire protection facilities. Identified facilities must have a minimum standard Level of Service (LOS), including an inventory, needs assessment, and include or reference the location and capacity of the facilities needed. Transportation standards are the only facilities required to have a concurrency mechanism, although a local government may choose to adopt a concurrency mechanism for other facilities. More details regarding the transportation standards can be found in the Transportation Element. In addition to GMA requirements, the Countywide Planning Policies for Spokane County (CWPP) contain several goals and policies regarding capital facilities and the provision of urban services. This Element is consistent with the CWPP and the adopted regional LOS standards. The City's approach to capital facilities planning is unique in that special purpose districts and other private utilities provide many of our services including water districts and law enforcement. The City, however, owns and manages capital facilities which include assets such as municipal build parks and recreation, and stormwater. This Capital Facilities Element therefore provides information about the City's facilities but also references the functional plans of each external service provider. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Current Conditions Overview The City owns and manages a number of capital facilities including roads, parks facilities, the police precinct building, a regional event center, the City Hall Building, and a street maintenance facility The City also rents out a 10,000 square foot commercial building (Wallaroo's) located on East Sprague Ave. There are several capital facilities that serve the City of Spokane Valley that are managed by other entities (see table below). In these cases, the City coordinates with the responsible governing service providers and jurisdictions to ensure consistency between capital facility plans. This collaborative review covers the construction of new facilities, improvements to existing facilities, the levels of service provided by those facilities, and the sources of revenues and financing of needed facilities. As shown in Table 1 and Table 2, public facilities and services in Spokane Valley are provided by the City and by other entities. The following pages contain background information about these different types of public facilities and services. Capital facilities belonging to privately -owned utilities serving the city (electrical, natural gas, liquid or other gas pipelines, and telecommunication) are discussed in the Utilities Element of the Plan. City -Owned Facilities This section of the CFP includes civic buildings such as government offices, community centers, and entertainment facilities. As a relatively new city, incorporated in 2003, Spokane Valley does not have a significant inventory of community facilities. The City Services Administrator provides management and oversight of the City's facilities. This department is responsible for the overall operations and maintenance of the City Hall facility, the City's Valley Precinct facility, CenterPlace, and the Street Maintenance Shop. The Facilities Department is responsible for, among other things, grounds maintenance, janitorial services, lighting, and maintenance and repairs of the HVAC and other building systems. Table 1: City -Owned Facilities and Provided Services Muni©pal services Law Enforcement and District Court spolarne Valley City Hall Police Precinct building Functional Plan Lifecycle 6-Year Capital Facilities Plan 6-Year Capital Facilities Plan Annual review and approval of 6-year CFP. Annual review and approval of 6-year CFP. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update r.enrerrmce rcegronm nvenr aernnr a zmer, raun arm Center Recreation Office Maintenance Yard Parks and Recreation Transportation Stormwater Facility Descriptions Public works equipment storage and maintenance facility Parks and Community Facilities Street, sidewalks and other transportation infrastructure. o-rearLapnatranouesrtart mmtmtrevtew amt approval of 6-year CFP. 6-Year Capital Facilities Plan Annual review and approval of 6-year CFP. Parks and Recreation Master Optional Element per Plan; 6-Year Capital Facilities this Comprehensive Plan Plan Update cycle. Transportation 6-Year TIP: Updated Improvement Program; annually in June Active Transportation Plan; SRTC MTP: Updated SRTC Horizon 20SO Spokane EvecyS Years Metm Transportation Plan; Complete Streets Ordinance No. 21-012 Infrastructure that Spokane Valley M5JU- Isgularly conveys and manages Stormwater Management updated to maintain storm, mid surface water. Plan; Storrwater Utility compliancewith Capital Program; Spokane Ecology's Municipal Regional Stormwater Stormwater Psrrmt Manual (SRSM) requirements. City Hall - The City Hall site is 3.38 acres located at the southeast corner of Sprague Avenue and Dartmouth Street. The structure is 65,172 square feet. The building is three stories above grade, and totals 47,485 square feet. The first floor is 18,553 square feet, the second floor is 15,155 square feet and the third floor is 13,777 square feet. The building also has a full basement of 17,687 square feet. Law Enforcement: Spokane Valley Police Precinct Facility- The Police Precinct is located at 12710 East Sprague Avenue. The building is approximately 21,779 square feet in size. The District Court operates a courtroom out of the building, using 2,503 square feet. The County pays a lease and maintenance charges for this facility The building also contains office space, kitchen, locker room and bathroom, maintenance garage, gym, court ticket counter, police counter, conference room, and roll call room. There is also a shop and garage in a separate structure. Dedicated Spokane Valley personnel and some support staff are housed at the Precinct. Most of the investigative personnel and support staff are housed at the Public Safety Building in Spokane. The old holding area is now used for breathalyzer tests, probation meetings, recorded interviews, and additional office space. CenterPlace Regional Event Center- CenterPlace is located at 2426 North Discovery Place, near Mirabeau Park. It is a 54,000 square foot regional event center and houses the Senior Center, as well as the Parks and Recreation Office. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Street Maintenance Facility - The City of Spokane Valley Street and Stormwater maintenance facility is located at 17002 East Euclid Avenue. The facility houses plow trucks, stormwater and traffic signal parts, liquid and granular deicing material, and other street maintenance equipment. Parks and Recreation Facilities Description Governing Functional Level of Service Standards Sources Plan(s) Parks, open spaces, 2026 Parks and Recreation LOS Recommendations from Parks Plan trails, and community Master Plan PENDING facilities. Spokane Valley's parks system includes a range of facilities and open spaces that support both active and passive recreation. These facilities are at varying stages of their lifecycle, requiring ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement to maintain quality and functionality. The City's adopted Parks Master Plan provides a full inventory of the City's park facilities, amenities, service levels, along with an assessment of recreational programming and future needs. The Course Spokane Valley is a dedicated cross-country sports venue operated by the City of Spokane Valley Parks and Recreation Department. The Course can host middle school, high school, collegiate, post -collegiate and master's level cross-country events (5K, 6K, 8K and 1 OK races) for local, regional and national athletes. The Venue has the capacity to host additional sports events or community activities in the "off season" that may require a similar outdoor space. The Course is located on 46 acres of Spokane Valley park property just north of the Spokane River along Flora Road. The site's natural terrain includes grassy meadows, rocky outcrops and a patchwork of hundred -year -old Douglas Fir. Runners enjoy peeking views of the adjacent Spokane River as they wind their way through various loops and turns. Transportation Facilities Description Governing Functional Level of Service Standards Sources Plan(s) Street, sidewalks and Transportation Improvement LOS ANALYSIS FROM TRANSPORTATION other transportation Program; Active ELEMENT PENDING infrastructure. Transportation Plan; SRTC Horizon 2050 Spokane Metro Adopts WSDOT Level of Traffic Stress Transportation Plan; standards for bicycle and pedestrian facilities Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Complete Streets Ordinance Supports Spokane Transit Authority Level of No. 21-012 Traffic Stress for transit facilities and planning The Transportation Element details Spokane Valley's roadway network, pedestrian facilities, bicycle facilities, public transit facilities, freight corridors, level of service standards, forecasted level of service, community and economic development priorities, and best practices for project prioritization. Transportation capital facilities include streets, bridges, pathways, and sidewalks. Spokane Valley is responsible for about 455 centerline miles of public roads. Overall, there are approximately 128 miles of major roadways (arterials and collectors) and 328 miles of local roadways. There are 20 bridges in the City's inventory, 17 of which are owned and maintained bythe city Collectively, streets and bridges encompass over 84,000,000 square feet of asphalt and concrete surfacing within the street network. For a full discussion of LOS for transportation facilities, see the Transportation Element. Stormwater Infrastructure Description Governing Functional Plan(s) Level of Service Standards Sources Infrastructure that • Spokane Valley New development and redevelopment standards, conveys and Stormwater along with exemptions and allowable design manages storm and Management Plan deviations are outlined in the SRSM, Chapter 2: surface water. • Stormwater New development shall not increase runoff Improvement volume off -site. Program Prevent Flooding of property during a 25-year • Spokane Regional storm. Stormwater Manual Prevent damage to buildings from a 100-year (SRSM) storm. Stormwater discharge to any surface or ground waters will be allowed unless the discharge will degrade water quality below standards. Stormwater runoff in Spokane Valley flows to a combination of public and private facilities. The City created a Stormwater Utility to maintain over 22,000 stormwater facilities that support City -owned right of way and properties. Private property owners are responsible for the maintenance of stormwater facilities that retain and infiltrate stormwater collected from their site, or as part of development agreements and easements. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update The Stormwater U tility updates a Six -Year Stormwater Improvement Program that lists projects that the Stormwater utility plans to pursue in the near future. New development and redevelopment projects are required to meet the current standards set forth in the Spokane Regional Stormwater Manual, which ensures that runoff is treated and properly disposed of. The City maintains an inventory of City -owned and private swales and landscaping swales through its public GIS portal. Regional Stormwater Level of Service Standards • Flooding of property outside designated drainage -ways, de facto drainage -ways, easements, flood zones, or other approved drainage facilities during the design precipitation or runoff event prescribed in the standards of the governing local agency or jurisdiction shall be prevented within the reasonable probability afforded by such standards. • Impact to buildings and accessory structures shall be avoided to the maximum extent practicable by evaluating the effects of a 100-year rain event and implementing measures to ensure that the runoff attendant to such an event is directed away from such buildings and accessory structures. • Any stormwater discharge to surface or groundwaters must meet federal, state, and local requirements for water quality treatment, stormwater runoff, and infiltration. Funding Spokane Valley has a dedicated Stormwater Management Fund, the purpose of which is to account for the funds related to the cleaning, maintenance, and improvement of the City's storm drainage system. The revenue for this fund originates from a stormwater fee collected by Spokane County on behalf of the City A stormwater fee is imposed upon every developed parcel within the City, which is an annual charge applied to each single-family unit and each 3,160 square feet of impervious surface for all other properties. These charges are uniform for the same class of customers and service facilities. In 2 02 6, the annual charge is $63. Each year, the annual fee is evaluated as part of the City's Master Fee Schedule and may be increased consistent with Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers, West Region. Other Contracted Public Capital Facilities and Service Providers Table 2: Services and Facilities Provided by Other Special Districts and Nonprofit Utilities Service/Facility Facility Use Programmatic Element/ Program Renewal/ Functional Plan Lifecycle Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update Water Infrastructure for providing Spokane County I Water System potable and fire response Coordinated Water System Evaluations last water, including water Plan; Spokane Comity Water conducted in 2022. storage tanks. System Evaluations; Individual district annual reports Wastewater/Sewer Facilities that convey Spokane County N/A wastewater to the regional Comprehensive Wastewater treatment system Management Plan(2014) Comity Res. No. 09-0664: Interlocal Agreement for Regional Wastewater Management Solid Wasm Facilities and services that Spokane Valley Solid and Valid from 2026-2030 support waste handling and Moderate Risk Waste disposal Management Plan Fire and Emergency Fire stations, EMS, Training, Spokane Valley Fire N/A Services Administration, and Department Strategic Plan; Maintenance Facilities SCFD 8Strategic Plan Libraries Facilities and services that Spokane Cmmity library N/A deliver free access to Capital Improvement information and support Program learning for all ages. Public Schools K-12 Education and CVSD Strategic Plan N/A recreation facilities EVSD Strategic Plan WVSD Strategic Plan SPS Strategic Plan Water Description Governing Functional Plan(s) Level of Service Standards Sources Infrastructure for providing Spokane County Domestic Water Supply: (VVAC 246-290) 350 potable and fire response water, Coordinated Water gallons per residential equivalent per day and including water storage tanks. System Plan; a minimum water pressure a f 3 0 pounds per Spokane County square inch. Water System Evaluations Design Standards: CWSP 4-1; WAC 246- 290- 200 Fire Flow: International Fire Code Appendix B: Fire Flow Requirements for Buildings (Adopted per SVMC 24.40.040 D) The City of Spokane Valley does not own or operate a public water supply system Spokane Valley residences and businesses receive water from special purpose districts, associations, and public and private corporations. The Spokane County Coordinated Water System Plan Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 10 (CWSP) identifies service boundaries, establishes minimum design standards and promotes the consolidation of regional water resource management. The Board of County Commissioners or the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) provide updates to the CWSP. Spokane Valley supports regional water supply planning, water use efficiency programs and plans, watershed planning, wellhead protection plans, water quality plans, and planning for reclamation and reuse. Map of Water Districts List of Water Districts and Contact Information Servi- District/ Address Provider I Water East Spokane 704 S Coleman Road https://w ..eswdl.com/ Water District Spokane Valley WA 99212 No.1 Water Irvin Water 11907 E Trent Ave # 1, https://irvinwatercom/ District No.6 Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Water Spokane 1225 N Yardley St Spokane, https://scwd3.org/ County Water Washington99212 District No. 3 Irrigation Camliope 4613 E. 3rd Avenue https://w ..spokmeaquifer.org/caiihope- Irrigation irrigation-district-no-7/ District No7 Spokane, WA 99212 Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 11 Water Cilyo'Spokane 914E North Foothills Dr, Water Spokane, WA 99207 Department Consolidated Irrigation District No 19 Hutchinson Irrigation District No 16 Irrigation Model Irrigation District Number 18 120 N Greenacres Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99016 618 N Sargent Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99212 1424 S Pierce Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Water Modern 904 North Pines Road Electric Water Company Spokane Valley, WA 99206 naps://myspos emrymg/pummwortcs/water/ https://comolidatechrrigation.com/ https://hutcMmoiiidl6.org/ https://modehrrigation.org/ https://w ..modemelectricwater.com/ Irrigation Orchard 8101 East Buckeye Avenue, https://onhardwenueirrigationcom/ Avenue Spokane, Washington 99212, Irrigation United States District No 6 Irrigation 1Tentwood 4402 N Sullivan Rd https://w ...spokaneaquiferorg/trentwood- Irrigation irrigation-district-3/ District No 3 Spokane Valley, WA 99216 Irrigation Veralrrigation 601 N Evergreen Rd, Spokane https://verawatermdpowercom/ District No 15 , Valley, WA 99216 Coordinating Water Districts The City will continue to coordinate closely with local water purveyors and the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) to ensure sufficient water capacity to meet current and future demand. As groundwater supplies from the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer are limited by existing water rights, coordination among districts is essential to manage shared resources, address capacity constraints, and plan for growth. Several purveyors serving the City are approaching or exceeding their allocated water rights, requiring coordinated, system -wide solutions. The City is working with water districts to evaluate strategies such as water rights adjudication, formation of a regional water authority, and conversion or consolidation of irrigation water rights to support municipal supply These efforts are critical to maintaining reliable and sustainable water capacity across service areas. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 12 Water Level of Service Standards The City will require all new development to demonstrate adequate water availability and fire flow capacity prior to approval. Building permits and land use actions will not be issued unless applicants can verify that sufficient water supply is available to serve the proposed use. Minimum level of service standards for water infrastructure shall be consistent with applicable state and regional requirements, including the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), the Coordinated Water System Plan (CWSP), and local fire authority regulations. These standards include: • Domestic Water Supply: Storage capacity and system flow must meet DOH requirements and Spokane County CWSP standards (where applicable). Public water systems must also maintain water quality in accordance with WAC 246-290, including Parts 4 and 6. • System Design: Pipe sizing, flow rates, and overall system configuration, including grid development, must comply with DOH requirements and CWSP standards (where applicable). • Fire Flow: Fire flow rate, duration, and hydrant spacing and specifications must meet local fire authority requirements or the adopted Fire Code, whichever is more stringent. Forecast of Future Needs Water System Evaluations for the various districts serving Spokane Valley were produced for the 2 02 3-2 037 Spokane County Capital Facilities Plan update. The following information is detailed within each district's evaluation: List of capital deficiencies: Narrative description of known gaps, failures, or inadequacies in the existing system (e.g., insufficient fire flow, aging mains, contamination treatment issues) Capital Projects List: Water System Improvement Schedule listing each project by name, type of improvement (source, storage, distribution), description, estimated cost, funding source, and year. Water rights deficiencies: Narrative and table projecting future water rights status at specific forecast years, showing whether existing rights will be surplus or deficient under future demand. Planning Horizon: The water rights deficiency tables project forward to 2 02 6 and 2040, making the effective forecasting window a roughly 20-year horizon. The near -term capital project schedules are more granular for the 6- to 10-year window. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 13 Wastewater / Sewer Description Governing Functional Plants) Level of Service Standards Sources Fmilitiesthat conveywastewater Spokane County SVMC 22.20- All project permits/project to the regional treatment system. Comprehensive applications, except for those exempt, shall be Wastewater subject to a concurremy review of public Management Plan sewer. Spokane County will certify the (2014) availability of adequate sewer collection and treatment capacity to comply with its regional County Res. No. 09- standards. 0664: Interlocal Agreementfor Infrastructure: Public sewerrequiredwhere Regional Wastewater densities exceed 2 equivalent residential units Management per acre. System Capacity: 200 gallons per day (GPD) per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU). Spokane County Environmental Services provides sewer service in Spokane Valley In 2009 an interlocal agreement was adopted which established a wastewater management advisory board and gave Spokane County the exclusive authority to provide sewer service to the City of Spokane Valley Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 14 Figure 1: Map of Sewer Gravity Lines and Force Mains Serving Spokane Valley �0k41 �s.J. '.AMk - r=!GfiSJ e g oil li The County owns and operates the Spokane Valley Interceptor (SVI) and the North Valley Interceptor (NVI) pump stations, which have a combined pumping capacity of about 10,000 GPM to redirect the flow through force mains to the Spokane County Regional Water Reclamation Facility (SCRWRF). Each is designed to handle peak wastewater flows from its respective service area. Outlined in the 2 026-2 031 TIP, there are projects in Spokane Valley designed to eliminate septic tanks near the Spokane River. There are also projects to design sewer for installation in coordination with future Spokane Valley road projects. For some projects, the cost of the sewer portion is funded by the County. Regional Level of Service Standards Incorporated areas will be provided with wastewater collection and transport systems in accordance with the adopted sewer concurrency requirements of the jurisdiction. Unincorporated urban growth areas will be provided with wastewater collection and transport systems in accordance with the requirements for sewer concurrency as set forth in Spokane County's Development Regulations. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 15 Collection systems and transport systems will be designed for peak flow conditions so that overflows, backups, and discharges from the system do not occur under normal operating situations. Specific design criteria shall conform to the requirements of the Washington State Department of Ecology and local regulations. Wastewater collection and transport systems will convey wastewater to centralized wastewater treatment facilities. Centralized wastewater treatment and effluent disposal facilities will be planned, designed, and constructed to provide effluent that does not adversely impact the quality of surface or groundwater of the State of Washington. Planning and design for wastewater treatment and effluent disposal facilities will be based on 20-year projections of population growth and current water quality criteria as established by the Washington State Department of Ecology. (Centralized wastewater treatment facilities shall be a part of a sewage system owned or operated by a city, town, municipal corporation, county, political subdivision of the state, or other approved ownership consisting of a collection system and necessary trunks, pumping facilities, and means of final treatment and disposal and approved or under permit from the Washington State Department of Ecology) Forecast of Future Needs According to the 2 02 2 County Capital Facilities Plan, based on projected population growth through 2037 for its U GAs served and the City of Spokane Valley, the existing capacity of all treatment facilities will be sufficient through the plan year of 2037. However, continued growth in the Spokane Valley service area will require ongoing expansion of the collection and conveyance system, and localized capacity constraints may necessitate infrastructure upgrades to maintain adequate service levels. Solid Waste Description Governing Level of Service Standards Sources Functional Plants) Facilities and services that Spokane Valley Solid Solid waste processing will meet Federal and support waste handling and and Moderate Risk State regulations, including maintaining any disposal. Waste Management required facilities licenses. Plan Administration Spokane Valley's solid waste program is administered and managed by the City's Public Works Department. Services to the community generally include: ♦ Contracted curbside collection of residential garbage, recycling, and organics. ♦ Contracted collection of multi -family garbage and recyclables. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 16 ♦ Contracted collection of commercial garbage in 1-8 cubic yard containers, as well as roll off boxes for industrial waste. ♦ A contractor owned and operated collection site (U niversity Transfer Station (U TS]] for City -flow controlled service providers to unload garbage; self - haulers and drop off garbage, recyclables, organics, appliances, and household hazardous waste (HHW); and provision for the proper transfer, transport, management, and disposal or recycling of these solid wastes. ♦ Contractor owned and operated Material Recovery Facility (MRF) [WM SMaRT (Spokane Materials and Recycling Technology) Center] ♦ Education and outreach in coordination with the contracted service providers. ♦ Solid waste services during disasters. Solid waste transfer, transport, and disposal services are provided under a contract with Sunshine Disposal & Recycling, Inc. WM (formerly Waste Management) of Washington are also contracted to provide curbside recycling collection services. Facilities Spokane Valley does not own, operate, or directly fund solid waste facilities and is reliant upon its contractors for existing and future services. The primary facilities the City utilizes include, either directly or through their contracted service provider, are the UTS, WM Adams County Landfill, Barr -Tech, and the WM SMaRT center. There are currently two transfer stations operating in Spokane Valley The University Transfer Station (UTS), owned and operated by Sunshine, is located centrally in the City, just west of University Road and south of Montgomery Drive. The UTS is contracted to be Spokane Valley's designated waste transfer facility for the next 10 years, and the city has the option to extend this service for up to 10 more years. The transfer station is open to contractors, residents, and commercial haulers for accepting and processing MSW, recycling, organics, C&D waste, miscellaneous wastes (appliances, etc.), and MRW All residential and commercial garbage collected from the City by designated haulers (Sunshine and WM) is delivered here. There is also the Sullivan Transfer Station, owned and operated by the Spokane County Regional Solid Waste System (SRSWS), which is located in the northern part of the City, just west of Sullivan Road. Curbside organics are processed here and transferred to the Barr - Tech composting facility. Forecast of Future Needs Waste management provider facility improvements are detailed in Chapter 9 of the Spokane Valley Solid and Moderate Risk Waste Management Plan. To provide long-term, Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 17 reliable solid waste services, Spokane Valley proactively administers contracts inclusive of long-term plans and required facility improvements to accommodate growth. With the projected population and waste growth over the next 20 years, this coordinated planning effort ensures continuity and reliable services in the future. Fire and Emergency Services Description Goveming Functional Plan(s) Level of Service Standards Sources Fire stations, HMS, Training, Spokane Valley Fire SVFD Community Risk Assessment Standards Administration and Department of Cover Maintenance Facilities Strategic Plan; SCFD Annual Report & Deployment Report Spokane County Fire District B Strategic Plan The Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) and Spokane County Fire District No. 8 special purpose districts provide fire protection, rescue, and emergency medical services (EMS) in the City of Spokane Valley SVFD serves over 90% of the City, while District 8 serves a few small areas in the southern part of the City. Both districts serve the City with a full range of fire suppression and EMS. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 18 Figure 2: Map of SVFD Facilities and Service Areas inSpokane Valley Fire Stations & Service Areas NOW �6 Y ad" 4' e � app ..z e . 5 .. 18 .m.. a E a E p 3✓ to CEe Spokane Valley Fire Department serves the Cities of Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Millwood, and parts of unincorporated Spokane County, with a combined population of approximately 145,000. SVFD firefighters and paramedics provide a variety of fire, rescue, and emergency medical services. The department also provides fire prevention, Community Risk Reduction, commercial property inspections and public education about fire and life safety. Spokane County Fire District 8 proudly serves the Glenrose and Ponderosa neighborhoods of Spokane Valley. Level of Service and Standards of Cover The Spokane Valley Fire Department (SVFD) establishes its standards of cover based on a comprehensive community risk assessment, historical response data, and performance benchmarking that evaluate risk levels, service demand, and system performance to guide the distribution, concentration, and reliability of emergency response resources. Spokane County Fire District 8 establishes response time standards based on service area characteristics, targeting arrival within 8 minutes in urban areas, 10 minutes in suburban Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 19 areas, 14 minutes in rural areas, and 20 minutes in remote rural areas, each measured for 90 percent of calls. Regional LOS: Urban areas jurisdictions in excess of 5,000 population, or once a population of 5,000 persons is achieved, shall be served by a fire district with at least a (Washington Survey and Rating Bureau of Insurance Services Office) Class 6 Insurance Rating or better. For the purposes of GMA minimum Levels of Service, Class 6 or better shall be based on the ISO Grading Schedule for municipal fire protection, 1974 edition, as amended, by using the fire district, fire service communication, and fire safety control portions of the grading schedule. The total deficiency points identified in these portions of the ISO or Washington Survey and Rating Bureau schedule shall not exceed 1,830 points. All jurisdictions, regardless of size, shall ensure that new development has a Fire Flow and hydrant placement per the International Fire Code adopted by that jurisdiction. Urban areas must be within five road miles of an operating fire station that provides service with a "Class A" pumper, unless structures are equipped with fire sprinkler(s) that are rated in accordance with the edition of the International Fire Code adopted by the jurisdiction, and is located within five road miles of an operating fire station that provides service with a Class 'A' rated pumper. U rban areas shall be served by a state certified basic life support (BLS) agency. U rban areas should be served by an operating basic lifesaving unit within 5 miles; and an operating advanced life support unit within six miles or 10 minutes' response time for those jurisdictions with urban areas in excess of 5,000 in population; and basic life support and advanced life support transport service. New Fire Station Planned to Serve Growth Spokane Valley and the County Fire District 8 have established an interlocal agreement to jointly develop the City -owned Ponderosa Park site. The Fire District has identified a need for a new fire station building to serve the surrounding Ponderosa neighborhood. The site plan will occupy between three and four acres of the property and will include an approximately 10,000 square foot building with outside space for fire suppression training and additional storage buildings. This development will expand the Fire District's capacity and improve response times to continue meeting its service standards. Libraries The Spokane County Library District (SCLD) provides library services in Spokane Valley The District is a municipal corporation established by voters in 1942 under provisions of RCW 27.12.040. This independent special purpose district provides public library services to the unincorporated county and affiliated municipalities. SCUD operates the Spokane Valley branch. This 28,000 square foot facility opened in 2023 and includes a large community room with capacity for up to 200 people, multiple reservable conference and study rooms, and a dedicated audio-visual studio for creative Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 20 production. There is also a prominent children s area which provides interactive learning opportunities. The City of Spokane Valley contributed a portion of the $15 million dollars to finance this facility Public Schools Four public school districts provide service within Spokane Valley: East Valley, West Valley, Central Valley, and Spokane School District 81. Spokane Valley must coordinate with each district to ensure consistency between the City's plan and school districts' plans. Specific information on school district facilities including, but not limited to, enrollment, classroom size, service standards, and financing is contained in each school district's strategic plan. Approach to the Capital Facilities and Public Services Element Approach to Capital Projects Funding Shortfalls The City is limited in its ability to finance all desired capital facility projects. Options must be available for addressing funding shortfalls or adjustments to lower the levels of service for public facilities. In deciding how to address a particular shortfall, the City will need to balance current needs versus future growth requirements and existing deficiencies versus future expansions. If funding shortfalls occur, the City will have the following options available to balance the budget: • Increase revenues, • Decrease LOS standards, • Decrease the cost of the service or facility, • Decrease the demand for the service or facility • Some combinations of the above. • Reassess land uses Should funding fall short to meet adopted levels of service, the City shall reassess the land use element of the comprehensive plan to ensure new development may be adequately served. In accordance with RCW 36.70A. 070(3)(e), Spokane Valley is required to reassess the land use element if probable funding falls short of meeting existing needs and to ensure that the land use element, capital facilities plan element, and financing plan within the capital facilities plan element are coordinated and consistent. Funding Future Projects Frequently used sources of funds for the maintenance or expansion of capital facilities in Spokane Valley include current revenues, federal grants, state grants and loans, and others. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 21 The GMA requires that budgeting decisions be consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. The 6-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is a significant component of the Financing Plan It includes a list of projects, when they begin, how much they will cost, and how they will be funded. Capital Improvements Overview Within the next six years, Spokane Valley has identified necessary capital improvements to its facilities spanning public safety, public works, transportation, and parks and recreation in order to meet growth demands and evolving community needs. Both the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP), and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan are adopted by reference, with each identifying specific capital improvements and financing. For all other facility types, the City will continue to coordinate with the relevant service providers identified above. These providers are responsible for maintaining adopted levels of service and financing improvements. The improvements and financing for those providers are not repeated here. Table 3: 2026-2031 Planned Municipal Capital Improvements PROJECT ESTIMATED COSTS FUNDING SOURCES Public Safety Improvements PLACEHOLDER New Municipal Maintenance —$73.8 million Facility 2026-2031 Transportation Improvement Program Parks & Rec: The Course Fieldhouse Facility Phase II Improvements TOTAL -$250.2 million $2.2 million - $3.5 million PLACEHOLDER Public Safety Capital Projects and Funding Sources PLACEHOLDER Undetermined Detailed in Table 4 Economic Development Capital Projects Fund. Additional Funding TBD PLACEHOLDER: The City will consider expanding existing facilities or constructing a new facilityto meet the projected need for additional police facilities that can support the operational needs ofstaff. The police department has adequate capacityin the near term, but maintenance ofexisting facilities will be a major priorityfor the nextsixyears, as seen in Table XX. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 22 Public Works Capital Projects and Funding Sources New Municipal Maintenance Facility A City of Spokane Valley Maintenance Facility Programming Report (Report) was commissioned in 2024 to identify the Space Needs Program for the various workgroups and operations that are included in the future City of Spokane Valley Maintenance Facility. The Space Needs Program captures the City of Spokane Valley's existing 2024 program and the future 2050 Program in terms of staff, quantity, and size (square footage) of rooms/areas, fleet vehicles, and parking requirements. Based on the projected 2 050 operational program needs, the Report determined that a new maintenance facility with 64,500 square feet of building area is required. The new Maintenance Facility is proposed to be located at 2100 N. Sullivan Road, on an eleven -acre parcel, that the City is acquiring from the Washington State Department of Transportation. The preferred concept site plan has a total estimated project cost of approximately $73.8 million. [INSERT IMAGE OF CONCEPT SITE PLAN] Transportation Capital Projects and Funding Sources The Six -Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) lists all the transportation projects the City of Spokane Valley plans to pursue over the next six years, along with each project's funding sources and funding status. The Comprehensive Plan EIS also identifies a long range, future transportation project list with projects which may be necessary by 2 045 to accommodate projected growth and maintain an acceptable LOS. Table 4 contains a summary of the 2 026-2 031 TIP capital project categories, estimated costs, and funding sources. For more detailed project information, refer to the documents mentioned in this subsection. Table 4: 2026-2031 Transportation Capital Projects and Funding Sources PROJECT TYPE 2026-2031 I FUNDING SOURCES ESTIMATED COSTS* Arterial 5,900 City funds, Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG), federal grants, state grants, developer contributions, additional funding TBD Bridge 1111,145 City funds, STBG, National Highway System / NHPP, Congressionally Directed Spending (earmarks), RAISE grants, CRISI (rail funding), FMSIB, federal grants, state grants, additional funding TBD Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 23 Intersection 20,783 cityfunds, Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), Pedestrian Bicycle Program (PBP), developer contributions, additional funding TBD Ped/Bicycle 8,822 city funds, Pedestrian Bicycle Program (PBP), Safe Routes to School (SRTS), federal and state grants, additional funding TBD Preservation 26,499 City funds, STBG, National Highway System Asset Management (NHPP), SRTS, federal grants, additional funding TBD Reconstruction 52,123 City funds, STBG, FMSIB, Congressionally Directed Spending, federal grants, additional funding TBD city funds, HSIP, SRTS, PBP, federal grants, additional Safety 7,007 funding TBD Stormwater 9,500 city stormwater funds, City funds, additional funding TBD TOTAL 250,220 — *Dollars in Thousands Transportation Impact Fees Spokane Valley collects transportation impact fees pursuant to RCW 82.02.050-82.02.110 and SVMC 22.100. These fees are intended to address impacts from new development, and they may be imposed on all developments within a designated area. The City has performed several studies to determine the impact areas on which the fees are being imposed. All fees collected must be applied to transportation system improvements identified in the corresponding study. Parks and Recreation Capital Projects and Funding Sources Fieldhouse Facility at The Course Spokane Valley Phase two improvements to The Course Spokane Valley cross-country facility include the addition of a field house with a media booth, a medical and drug testing location, restrooms, storage, and officials' offices at the property. Alternative items include breezeway, management, hospitality, and additional restrooms. Preliminary cost estimates are between $2.2 million and $3.5 million. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 24 Challenges and Opportunities Siting Essential Public Facilities The GMA requires the Comprehensive Plan to include a process for identifying and siting Essential Public Facilities (EPF). According to the GMA, no local comprehensive plan may preclude the siting of EPF. The GMA defines EPF as those "that are typically difficult to site, such as airports, state education facilities, and state or regional transportation facilities as defined in RCW 47.06.140, state and local correctional facilities, solid waste handling facilities, and in- patient facilities including substance abuse facilities, mental health facilities, group homes, and secure community transition facilities as defined in RCW 71.09.020" If the services provided meet an essential public need, the facility maybe considered essential, regardless of whether it is publicly or privately owned. An EPF may include a facility providing or housing a needed public service that is: ♦ Provided by or substantially funded by government; ♦ Provided by a private entity subject to public service obligations; or ♦ On an officially adopted state, regional, county, or local community EPF list. Generally, essential public facilities can be difficult to site, and their location in a community maybe locally unpopular. Local and state governments are charged with the task of ensuring that such facilities, as needed to support orderly growth and delivery of public services, are sited in a timely and efficient manner. In 2001 planning staff from all jurisdictions in Spokane County formed a task force to cooperatively develop a regional siting process for all essential public facilities, including Secure Community Transition Facilities (SCTFs). The Essential Public Facilities Task Force, with assistance from the Spokane County Office of Community Development (OCD), the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS), and technical staff from the jurisdictions developed a regional siting process for essential public facilities titled Spokane County Regional Siting Process for Essential Public Facilities. The City of Spokane Valley, in conjunction with the remaining incorporated small towns and cities and with the City of Spokane and Spokane County, entered an interlocal agreement to follow the Spokane County Regional Siting Process for Essential Public Facilities when siting facilities of a state-wide or regional/county-wide significance. U nless it is otherwise preempted by state or federal laws, that siting process will apply to any and all future efforts to site an essential public facility of statewide or regional/countywide significance within Spokane County Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 25 Utility Services Coordination The City routinely coordinates with the contracted utility providers to coincide service expansion with City development projects; however, this can present both logistical and timing challenges, as utility planning cycles, funding availability, and infrastructure constraints do not always align with the City's capital project schedules or growth demands. These coordination needs can introduce complexity in project delivery, requiring early communication, interagency agreements, and flexibility in design and phasing. At the same time, this coordination represents a significant opportunity to maximize efficiency and long-term system performance. By aligning utility upgrades with roadway, parks, and other capital improvements, the City can reduce overall construction costs, minimize disruptions to residents, and ensure infrastructure is appropriately sized and located to support future growth. This integrated approach also strengthens partnerships with service providers and helps the City proactively plan for resilient, reliable, and scalable utility systems that support community development objectives. Ongoing Freight Planning and Grade Separation Efforts Several recently completed grade -separation projects have delivered significant benefits by eliminating at -grade rail crossings, improving traffic flow and freight mobility, reducing vehicle delays by several hours per day, and enhancing safety by removing the risk of train - related collisions. Spokane Valley will need to continue to coordinate with BNSF, WSDOT, local utility purveyors, and other state and local partners to evaluate and deliver upon the remaining proposed grade separation projects, as required. The largest challenge will be to secure the remaining funding required; however, if the City pursues strategic investments in the near term, it will avoid costlier investments in the future and realize the projects' co - benefits. See the Transportation Element for additional context regarding the ongoing freight mobility and railroad crossing safety efforts. Capital Facilities and Climate Planning Alignment Aligning the Capital Facilities Element with the aims of the Climate Element is consistent with new state planning requirements under the Growth Management Act. Capital facilities planning and climate hazards prioritization are related in that community assets have been identified and assessed for their hazard vulnerability to pursue pathways and set policy recommendations. Proposed future capital projects must be evaluated and consistent with these recommendations to mitigate and adapt for hazards. See the Climate Element for a detailed discussion of the resiliency and emissions targets process and recommendations. Capital facilities planning must also be consistent with the Spokane County Countywide Planning Policies (CWPPs). The CWPPs are a regional framework for comprehensive planning for Spokane County and its cities and towns. The CWPPs two main climate -related goals include: Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 26 1] Spokane County and all jurisdictions within its boundaries should strive to reach net -zero emissions by 2050. 2] Support efforts adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate hazards that are prevalent in Spokane County. Given these directives to achieve net -zero emissions and support hazard mitigation and adaptation strategies outlined in the Climate Element, Spokane Valley will consider these goals when evaluating the siting, design, and function of future capital facilities. Best Practices Capital facility plans are blueprints for the future; they identify economic, land use, and infrastructure development and/or redevelopment, which may include transportation, housing, and public facilities. These plans include broad community participation to ensure the City is planning and identifying the jurisdictional needs for the future. Regular updates are imperative to determine development and infrastructure needs as local conditions change Emphasizing Preventative Maintenance Future updates to the Comprehensive Plan and other related plans will consider addressing preventive maintenance. A component of effective maintenance typically includes preventative maintenance at regularly scheduled intervals to prevent premature failure and to maximize the useful life of our facilities. The City may therefore benefit from establishing a baseline for a comprehensive preventive maintenance program. Develop a Coordinated Approach to Asset Management As Spokane Valley continues to grow and its infrastructure needs become increasingly complex, there is an opportunity to take a more coordinated approach to understanding and managing the assets that support city services. One way to begin building this capacity is through a pilot Asset Managers Working Group: a cross -departmental body composed of senior managers from each division that owns or manages significant capital assets. Rather than a formal mandate, the pilot would be an invitation to explore what better asset stewardship could look like across the organization. As part of this effort, participating divisions would be encouraged to produce an annual report documenting the current value, condition, and service levels of their asset portfolios; emerging capital needs tied to growth demands; and critical funding gaps that, if left unaddressed, could defer costs and compound long-term liabilities. Over time, these reports could become a shared resource that informs the City's capital and financial planning processes, creating a more consistent and transparent basis for investment decisions across departments. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 27 The working group would also provide a space for departments to share asset management approaches, learn from one another, and gradually build institutional knowledge that does not currently exist in a coordinated form citywide. Cities such as Portland, Oregon have demonstrated the value of this kind of collaborative model. Portland's Citywide Asset Managers Group has produced annual reports aggregating infrastructure data across nine bureaus, helping the city surface significant funding gaps and make the case for sustained investment in asset stewardship. Should the pilot prove effective, Spokane Valley officials could explore whether establishing a dedicated Citywide Asset Management Office would be warranted. The purpose of this office would be to promote infrastructure stewardship as an ongoing municipal priority and ensure that the best practices developed through the pilot working group continue to inform planning and investment decisions into the future. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 28 Capital Facilities Goals and Policies Goals CF-G1 Coordinate with special districts, other jurisdictions, and the private sector to effectively and affordably provide facilities and services. CF-G2 Provide public facilities and services necessary to promote Spokane Valley's economic development goals and community priorities. CF-G3 Ensure efficient and cost-effective public safety and emergency services. CF-G4 Pursue a diverse set of capital funding sources. Policies CF-P1 Seek a balance between the quality and cost of providing public facilities and services. CF-P2 Optimize the use of existing public facilities before investing in new facilities. CF-P3 Coordinate the construction of public infrastructure with private development to minimize costs. CF-P4 Require adequate emergency vehicle road access and water supply/ pressure for new development within the City CF-PS Coordinate with a fire services provider to disseminate information about fire - wise development to property owners and land developers. CF-P6 Ensure that facilities and services meet minimum Level of Service standards. CF-P7 Maintain a comprehensive emergency management plan that meets the needs of the City and coordinates with regional emergency planning efforts. CF-P8 Coordinate sewer planning with Spokane County. CF-P9 Support continued regional water supply, water use efficiency, watershed, wellhead protection, water quality, and reclamation planning to ensure domestic water needs are met. CF-P10 Require new development to connect to public sewer and water. CF-P11 Identify opportunities to reduce waste and increase recycling in City facilities and at City -sponsored events. CF-P12 Plan and build infrastructure to support the development of high -quality retail and commercial projects. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 29 CF-P13 Coordinate with school districts in land use planning processes. CF-P14 Coordinate with school districts to use school facilities as community centers and public facilities where appropriate. CF-P1S Evaluate a variety of capital funding sources including, but not limited to, grants, local improvement districts, latecomer agreements, and impact fees to fund projects and programs. CF-P16 Plan and coordinate the location of public facilities and utilities in potential annexation areas, including identifying the fiscal impacts of providing the facilities, utilities, services, and maintenance. CF-P17 Coordinate with adjacent jurisdictions in developing capital improvement programs. CF-P18 Encourage the Spokane County Library District to ensure that adequate library services are available to Spokane Valley residents. CF-P19 Collaborate with Spokane County jurisdictions in determining the best locations for public and private essential public facilities. CF-P20 Prioritize public investments necessary to support catalytic economic development and redevelopment projects. CF-P21 Support State legislative and municipal water system efforts to convert irrigation rights to municipal water rights. CF-P22 Reassess the Land U se Element and relevant goals and policies if probable funding falls short of meeting existing needs. CF-P23 Plan, maintain, and coordinate transportation facilities through the City's Six -Year Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and long-range planning efforts to ensure transportation infrastructure maintains acceptable Level of Service and supports regional mobility CF-P24 Incorporate multimodal connectivity into the planning, design, and improvement of transportation facilities and corridors, ensuring that multimodal Level of Service standards are applied to arterials, transit routes, and active transportation facilities consistent with WSDOT and SRTC guidelines. CF-P25 Support the use of green infrastructure and low impact development (LID) practices on public properties to manage and control stormwater, reduce runoff impacts, and protect water quality. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 30 CF-P26 Continue to implement the Operations and Maintenance program and Energy Management Plan for City owned Tier land Tier 2 buildings. Strategies CF-S1 Identify needed capital facilities improvements that are critical to economic development. CF-S2 Update wayfinding and signage for the entire City and incorporate a consistent aesthetic or theme based on the outcome of the City's branding process. CF-S3 Improve new and existing access points to the Spokane River. CF-S4 Establish criteria for prioritization of capital investments. CF-SS Establish a Facilities Condition Index (FCI) to provide information for planned maintenance with set priorities and cost estimates. Draft Public & Private Utilities Element I Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Update 31 Spokane Valley Comprehensive Plan Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element Review To City of Spokane Valley From: SO Alliance Date: April 23, 2026 Project: Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update Subject Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element Update Summary Purpose The purpose of this memo is to summarize how staff used the 2026 DRAFT Parks Master Plan and Washington Department of Commerce's periodic review checklist to update the Parks Element of the Comprehensive Plan in accordance with the Growth Management Act (GMA) periodic review requirements. This update is required under Revised Code of Washington 36.70A.130, which mandates that jurisdictions fully planning under the GMA conduct a periodic review and update of their comprehensive plans and development regulations to ensure continued compliance with state law. Approach As the 2026 Parks Master Plan update coincides with this Comprehensive Plan update, the Element draws directly from the Master Plan's findings. The Element is organized to report on key findings from the updated inventory assessment, public engagement results, and level of service analysis. These insights establish the basis for the Parks goals and policies and inform the current demand, usage, and forecasted growth projections forthe city-wide planning process. Remaining Components The Parks Element will require the following additions for completion: ♦ Review Active Transportation Plan Goals and Policies, once finalized, to ensure alignment with parks goals and policies. ♦ Add Parks Plan Level of Service Results and recommendations. Currently under staff review. ♦ Verify that the inventory acreage description is correct and updated. ♦ Review and update of all graphics and figure numbers. CHANGES FROM THE 2016 PARKS ELEMENT Planning Context (Introduction) Simplified and condensed. The 2016 version contained several paragraphs explaining the GMA's conditional requirement for a Parks and Recreation Element (including the note that the Legislature had not provided funding as of 2016), the RCW 36.70A.070(9) mandate checklist, and the explanation of RCW 36.70A.160 open space corridor requirements. Verbose statutory nuances were removed. The 2026 version replaces it with a single streamlined paragraph that simply identifies the 2026 Parks and Recreation Master Plan as the foundation document, notes it is adopted by reference as an appendix, and states that it fulfills GMA goals around open space, recreation demand, facility needs, and intergovernmental coordination. Current Conditions Condensed narrative; reformatted inventory; new map added. • The opening narrative was pared down to a brief description of the system types (neighborhood parks, community parks, special use, natural open space, CenterPlace), replacing the lengthier 2016 description. • A Spokane Valley Parks System Map was added as a spatial reference for plan readers. • The Summary of Park Conditions table (Figure 50) was reformatted as an infographic organized into two components: o Parks System Composition with four summary metrics: 20 total sites, 189.9 developed acres, 91.4 natural open space/undeveloped acres, 12.5 miles of regional trails. o Facilities and Amenities Summary with icon -based table organized by category. • Anew Conditions Assessment subsection was added summarizing the overall quality of the system, the role of partnerships, and the need for reinvestment as the system matures. This replaces/absorbs some of the general quality/management findings that previously appeared in the PROS Plan findings bullets. • The eight community engagement findings bullets (Partnership, Spokane River, Neighborhood Parks, Economic Development, Facility Types, Acquisition, Management, Design) were removed from Current Conditions and replaced with the 2026 engagement results. Revised Section: "Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Key Needs and Priorities" SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 2 This is a revised major section replacing the former "Approach to the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element" structure. It has three subsections: 1. Challenges and Opportunities • Contains a Level of Service Analysis Results placeholder to be populated once the Parks Master Plan is finalized. • Contains anew Community Identified Needs and Priorities subsection with the 2026 community engagement results. This section summarizes the Parks Master Plan engagement process and reports key findings, including: o Community Values — health/nature/social connection, trails/natural areas, affordability, reinvestment in existing parks. o Barriers and Unmet Needs — awareness gaps, trail/path deficits, natural area needs, aquatic facility gap, supporting amenity gaps (restrooms, ADA, parking). o Park Improvement Priorities— four ranked priorities: (1) maintain/improve existing parks, (2) expand trails/connectivity/natural areas, (3) expand programs/improve access, (4) develop new facilities (aquatics, indoor rec, signature playgrounds, dog parks). o Community Engagement Key Takeaways — restates the most strongly supported themes from the engagement process. 2. Additional Opportunities (formerly "Challenges and Opportunities") The four former opportunity topic headers were lightly edited and reorganized here. Key changes by section: • "Enhance Outdoor Recreation" 4 "Enhance Outdoor Recreation and Access": language softened from framing as a challenge to framing as an existing strength with remaining opportunities; "unmatched" changed to "abundant." • "Support Sports and Leisure Activities": Updated to reflect 17 sand volleyball courts (up from 8), added mention of Plante's Ferry's synthetic turf and lighting upgrades, and added new reference to The Course at Flora Park for future cross-country events. • "Develop Tourist Attractions" 4 "Develop Underutilized City -Owned Areas": Renamed to shift from tourism framing to asset stewardship. Added specific reference to the Summerfield and Ponderosa properties and underutilized land south of Valley Mission Park as identified future parks/recreation spaces. • "Make Recreation Space Accessible": Added reference to the level of service analysis in the Parks Master Plan as illustrating the access gap; added specific mention of the Appleway Trail SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 3 expansion improving east -west connections while noting north -south links remain limited; added language about future Appleway Trail expansions and north -south connections. 3. Community and Economic Development Priorities (largely carriedforward) • "Improve the City's Image and Identity" 4 "Enhance the City's Identity": Header updated; introductory sentence added referencing specific examples like The Course at Flora Park and neighborhood park improvements. The sub -bullets were converted to paragraph format (same content). • One new bullet/priority was added: "Partner with local businesses and community organizations to provide a wider portfolio of recreational opportunities." • The reference to Spokane County's 2025 Open Space Priorities was added within the "Leverage local and regional assets" paragraph. Best Practices Two original best practices were carried forward with minor edits. Two new ones were added: 2016 2026 Draft BPI Coo roll nate with Carried forward(minorwording cleanup) Recreation Providers BP2 Use Multifunctional Carried forward ("continue investing in" added) Infrastructure BP3 (new) Support Programming and Activation — support recreation programming and events that increase park use and provide community benefit BP4 (new) Engage the Community Around Park Planning Efforts — community feedback should be an early and regular part of park planning Goals and Policies Summary of Changes Goals:2 retained (P-G1 unchanged, P-G2 revised), 2 added (P-G3, P-G4) Policies: 7 carried forward unchanged, 4 revised (P-131, P-132, P-134, P-135), 5 new (P-1312 through P-P16) Strategies: 5 carried forward (3 unchanged, 2 revised), 1 deleted (arts venue), 3 new (pedestrian bridge, river trail, Friends organization) SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 4 Goals and Policies Proposed Changes Goals p 2016 2026 Draft Develop, grow, and maintain Same Change P-GI No change a diverse and accessible park, recreation, trail, and open space system that enhances community character. P-G2 Recognize and support local Engage community Replaced — arts artists. organizations and local recognition subsumed into businesses to strengthen broader partnerships goal. community partnerships and recreational opportunities. P-G3 (not present) Establish safe and accessible New linkages between parks and I(not recreational facilities. P-G4 present) Promote economic New development and tourism through park facilities, youth sports, and programming. Policies q 2016 2026 Draft Change P-PI Support performing arts, Support local community Expanded — added community events and partnerships, performing arts, partnerships and arts FelevaRtfaeflities.and community events to programming framing. enhance arts -focused recreational programming. P-P2 Asquire land for the Identify land for the Revised — "acquire" development of parks or development of parks or the softened to "identify"; scope the preservation of open preservation of open space shifted from city SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 6 space within the City's boundaries and adjacent UGAs. P-P3 Using the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, periodically assess recreational facilities to identify potential gaps and improvements. P-P4 Implement innovative strategies for park maintenance, park safety, and park accessibility to mouse-epeF ARg-cesFs P-P5 Design parks and community facilities to provide easy access for pedestrians, bicycles, autos, and public transit. P-P6 Seek grants, private land donations, and other funding sources for land acquisition and recreational facilities development. P-P7 Identify and protect regional open spaces and natural areas to form a connected network of active and passive recreation areas. within currently underserved areas of the city based on walkability mapping. Same (with "2026" Master Plan reference implied) Implement innovative strategies for park maintenance and park safety to increase park usability and accessibility. Design parks, community facilities, and surrounding areas to provide easy access for pedestrians, bicycles, autos, and public transit in coordination with the City's 2026 Active Transportation Plan. Same Same to underserved areas with walkability mapping as the criterion. No change. Revised — removed "reduce operating costs" as the rationale; replaced with "increase park usability and accessibility." Expanded — added "surrounding areas" and explicit cross-reference to the 2026 Active Transportation Plan. No change No change SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 6 P-Pg Plan for access to parks, Same No change trails, and other open spaces in all neighborhoods. P-P9 Support the inclusion of Same No change artwork from local artists in public places. P- Support the voluntary Same No change P30 inclusion of common open space and public art in new development. P- Partner with public and Same No change P31 private entities to encourage, sponsor, and support a range of public activities and special events within appropriate open spaces. P- Identify opportunities to Create shade opportunities in Replaced — pocket parks P12 transform land located in neighborhood parks through concept removed; new neighborhoods into pocket the use of shade structures and maintenance/design focus parks. added tree canopy. on shade. P- (not present) Conduct systemwide New P13 maintenance assessments including park irrigation and lighting. P- (not present) Engage the local community New P14 during park planning exercises, including implementing a mechanism for park visitors to provide feedback on their experience at city parks. P- (not present) Conduct an aquatics New— directly responsive P15 assessment and feasibility to aquatics being the top - study with option to master SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 7 plan renovated aquatics ranked capital need in facilities. community engagement. P- (not present) Establish a regular cadence for New P16 meetings with local community organizations such as the YMCA to discuss partnership opportunities or overlap in programming. Strategies 2016 2026 Draft Change Leverage the Appleway Trail to Leverage the Appleway Trail to Revised —"spillover effects" improve adjacent business improve adjacent business replaced with "east -west City opportunities and sreatespiNeveF opportunities and increase connectivity." effects. east -west City connectivity. Seek funding to develop north- Same No change south trail connections between key east -west corridors. Same No change Evaluate the feasibility of constructing a whitewater course on the Spokane River. Evaluate the feasibility of Evaluate the feasibility of Revised — reframedfrom developing -a- Public -paFI6 along the creating and enhancing public "developing a public park" to Spokane River. access along the Spokane River. "creating and enhancing public access" — broader scope Evaluate the feasibility of an arts Evaluate the feasibility of an Deleted venue in Spokane Valley. arts venue in Spokane Valley. Identify locations to incorporate Same No change public art in new developments or City facilities. Seek funding to construct a not present) New pedestrian bridge across the SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 8 Spokane River connecting Flora Park to the Centennial Trail. (not present) Evaluate the feasibility of New creating a rivertrail on the north bank of the Spokane River connecting Flora Park, Sullivan Park, and Plante's Ferry. (not present) Develop a Friends of Spokane New Valley Parks type organization to assist in advocating for city parks and recreational programs. (not present) Develop an MOU with Spokane New Parks Foundation to enable park donations and capital projects fundraising. SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 9 Chapter IX. Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element INTRODUCTION Why the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element is Important The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space, Element providesthe backboneto buildingformal and informal public spaces that support resident and visitor leisure time. The Element provides a formal statement of the City's priorities as they relate to parks, recreation, open space, and art. Parks add to the quality of life for residents and to the value of nearby neighborhoods. The Parks, Recreation, and Open Space in conjunction with other elements of the Comprehensive Plan provide the full range of urban living. Planning Context The City of Spokane Valley 2026 Parks and Recreation Master Plan (Parks Master Plan) serves as the foundation for this element and is adopted by reference as an appendix to this Comprehensive Plan. The Parks Master Plan was developed in alignment with the Washington Growth Management Act's goal to retain open space, enhance recreation opportunities, and develop parks and recreation facilities, and is consistent with the goals and policies of the other elements of this Comprehensive Plan. Through robust analysis of recreation demand, facility needs, and intergovernmental coordination opportunities, the Parks Master Plan ensures that high levels of parks and recreation service will be maintained for the Spokane Valley community over the next 20 years. CURRENT CONDITIONS Spokane Valley's parks system includes a range of facilities and open spaces that support both active and passive recreation. The system consists of neighborhood parks, community parks, special use facilities like pet parks, natural open spaces, and the Center Place Regional Event Centerwhich hosts activities such as dance lessons. These assets provide opportunities for recreation, community gathering, and access to natural areas throughout the city. The City also has several undeveloped sites to meet future recreational need. Figure XX: Spokane Valley Parks System Map SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 10 Myrtle Point il luuP \, /hall Limits p !k� Iwana:=al Lp igonw.rvAve Discovery PlaygroundF Valley Mission Pari is na... �" Greenacres Pad • Spokane Valley Parks Properly Park Fi Pool Balfour Park emi `q cf$q`P°qy Terrace Vi M f Browns Pad Ponderosa IN Park Boundary — Trail os t 0 Spokane Valley Boundary Niles The park system includes facilities at varying stages of their lifecycle, requiring ongoing maintenance, rehabilitation, and replacement to maintain quality and functionality. The City's adopted Parks Master Plan provides a full inventory of the City's park facilities, amenities, service levels, along with an assessment of recreational programming and future needs. Figure 50 provides a summary of the current park system, identifying the park type and available amenities. The Parks Master Plan provides an in-depth assessment of each of the individual parks and facilities. Figure 50. Spokane Valley Parks System Inventory Metrics SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 11 Parks System Composition 20 Sites 189.9 Acres Total Number of Total Developed Parks & Facilities Parks Acreage+ 91.4 Acres Total Natural Open Space Acreage* 12.5 Miles Total Regional Trail Mileage f Including Community, Neighborhood, Large Urban, and Linear Parks (Excluding State -Owned Linear Park Acreage) (See Figure XX of Parks Master Plan) * Including natural open space and undeveloped park/ property acreage. Facilities and Amenities Summary Icon Facility Type Amenities Present Playground Areas: 7 Play & Water Splash Pads: 4 Features Outdoor Swimming Pools:3 Pond/Fishing Areas: 1 rjr�A Athletic Fields & Multi -use Fields: 7 400 Sport Facilities Softball Fields:4 Basketball Courts: 4 IHI Courts &Fitness Tennis Courts: 5 Pickleball Courts: 6 Sand Volleyball Courts: 17 Restrooms: 14 Picnic Areas: 10 Community Spaces & Shelter Buildings:? Park Amenities Indoor Facilities: 3 Art Installations:2 A *• Open Space & Nature Open Play Areas: 10 Natural Areas (within parks): 9 Pathways/Trails (within parks): 8 SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 12 Specialized Equestrian Facilities: 1 IV Recreation Features Skate Park: 1 Cross -Country Course: 1 Conditions Assessment Spokane Valley's parks are generally well -maintained and are viewed as important community assets. Community input and stakeholder feedback indicate a high level of satisfaction with the overall quality, cleanliness, and usability of parks and recreation facilities. Parks and open spaces contribute to quality of life and are widely used for recreation, events, and community activities The park system is supported by a variety of recreational programs and partnerships that help activate parks and expand opportunities for residents. Existing relationships with schools, sports organizations, and community groups play an important role in delivering recreation services and maximizing use of park facilities. As the park system matures, maintaining existing facilities and planning for reinvestment will be increasingly important to sustaining overall system quality. PARKS, RECREATION, AND OPEN SPACE KEY NEEDS AND PRIORITIES Challenges and Opportunities The Parks Master planning process, lifecycle assessment, and community engagement identified several key challenges and opportunities. The following sections further describe values, barriers, and priorities. Level of Service Analysis Results [PLACEHOLDER FOR PARKS PLAN CONTENT ONCE APPROVED] Community Identified Needs and Priorities The Parks Master Plan update was developed through an extensive community engagement process that reached residents through multiple channels. Table XX inventories the outreach methods, digital engagement platforms, and in -person events that were employed. Table 1: Parks Master Plan Public Engagement Channels Outreach each Methods Digital Engagement Platforms In -Person Engagement Project Website Online Survey Valleyfest outreach booth SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 13 ♦ Postcard mailer to Interactive Mapping Tool Community Conversations at approximately 2,500 City Hall households Yard Signs Stakeholder Email Blasts Social Media Promotional Posts "Big Ideas" submission tool for open comment Fund -it Tool Improvement Prioritization Activity Community Open House at the Spokane Valley Library Pop-up event at Breakfast with Santa Pop-up event at the Winter Market Internal Park -by -Park Workshop with City staff Focus group discussions with community stakeholders and City staff The online survey garnered 224 responses, with 88% shared by Spokane Valley residents and 12%from non-residents. This process produced several key findings, detailed below, which reveal the participants' values, identify barriers and facility and programming gaps, and offer priorities area for improvements. For the full results, see Chapter 2: Community Feedback of the Parks Master Plan. Community Values • Health, access to nature, and social connection are the top reasons residents value parks, with 67% citing physical health benefits and 47% strongly agreeing parks provide access to nature and play. • Trails, natural areas, and outdoor experiences are the most important amenities, consistently ranking highest across survey questions. • Affordability and inclusivity are key expectations, with strong interest in free or low-cost programs and community events. • Reinvestment in existing parks is the community's top funding priority over building new facilities. Barriers and Unmet Needs The most significant barrierto park use is lack of awareness (30%of respondents). Additional barriers include facility -need mismatches, safety concerns, and poorly maintained or outdated amenities. SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 14 The highest unmet facility needs are: ♦ Trails and multi -use paths —consistently the top amenity priority; 78%support improving existing trails and 76%support developing new trail loops. ♦ Natural areas —the second -highest unmet need, with 80% supporting improvements to nature preserves. ♦ Aquatic/pool facilities— the third -highest unmet need; more than half of respondents say existing facilities barely meet their needs or are not meeting them at all. ♦ Supporting amenities — restrooms, parking, and ADA accessibility are frequently cited gaps. On the programming side, art programs, free/low-cost community events, outdoor fitness, and youth and family programming show the greatest demand, with most needs only partially met. Park Improvement Priorities Engagement results identify four clear priorities for future investment: 1. Maintain and Improve Existing Parks (Highest Priority) Investment in existing parks ranked highest in the Fund -It Tool exercise. Residents strongly prefer upgrading current parks --particularly restrooms, playgrounds, lighting, and safety features —over developing new ones. 2. Expand Trails, Connectivity, and Natural Areas Multi -use paths and trails ranked second in the Fund -It Tool. Key actions include expanding trail connections, preserving natural areas and wildlife habitat, and improving connectivity between parks, neighborhoods, and destinations. 3. Expand Programs and Improve Access Top program priorities from pop-up events: free/low-cost events (94 votes), nature and environmental programs (69 votes), art programs (67 votes), and learn -to -swim programs (57 votes). Improved outreach is essential as 30% of survey respondents reported not knowing what programs currently exist. 4. Develop New Facilities to Address System Gaps The highest -supported new capital investments are aquatic facilities, indoor recreation facilities, signature playgrounds, and dog parks. Community Engagement Key Takeaways SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 16 The following takeaways reflect the most consistent and strongly supported themes from community engagement conducted as part of the Parks Master Plan update. • Parks are valued as essential community infrastructure. Residents view parks as vital to public health, quality of life, and social connection — not optional amenities. Strong majorities recognize their benefits for physical fitness, access to nature, and community interaction. • Maintaining what exists is the top priority. The community's clearest message is to take care of existing parks before expanding the system. Restrooms, playgrounds, lighting, and safety improvements ranked highest in funding preference. • Trails and natural areas are the most -demanded amenities. Trails, multi -use paths, and natural areas consistently ranked as the highest -priority features across every engagement method. Expanding connectivity and preserving natural spaces should be central to future investments. • Aquatic facilities represent a significant unmet need. With 152 votes in pop-up events and more than half of respondents saying current aquatic options barely meet their needs, this is the most critical gap for future capital investment. • Affordability and awareness are barriers to access. 30% of residents don't know what programs exist, and strong demand for free or low-cost offerings signals that accessible programming must be a planning priority alongside facility improvements. • Programming gaps can be addressed through expansion, not reinvention. Most program needs including arts, outdoor fitness, youth and family activities are only partially met. The opportunity lies in building upon these existing offerings through the help of strategic partnerships. Additional Opportunities In addition to the needs and priorities identified by the public, the following opportunities were derived from the asset conditions assessment and the demands and needs process. This summary offers a high- level overview. See the Parks Master Plan for additional context Enhance Outdoor Recreation and Access The City of Spokane Valley offers abundant access to the Spokane River. The majority of the nearly 10 miles of shoreline is publicly owned, mostly by Washington State Parks. The Centennial Trail offers a grade separated paved shared -use path along much of the river corridor and serves as a key regional recreation asset. While access is strong, opportunities remain to enhance formal access points, such as at Myrtle Point near CenterPlace, and to improve north -south connections between neighborhoods, parks, and the river corridor. Support Sports and Leisure Activities SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 16 Youth sports are important to the City of Spokane Valley. There are two major youth sports activity centers near the City of Spokane Valley: Plante s Ferry and the HUB Sports Center. Plante's Ferry offers outdoor sports with soccer and softball fields and the HUB offers indoor sports, volleyball, and basketball. Additionally, the City owns and operates seventeen sand volleyball courts and uses its established relationships with local school districts to support and supply youth sports activities. It has recently invested in active recreation amenities, adding new tennis, pickleball and basketball courts at Greenacres Park and Balfour Park. While some opportunities exist to provide additional fields locally, the City also supports improvements and expansions of regional sports centers. Plante s Ferry, owned and primarily maintained by Spokane County, offers recently renovated synthetic turf and lighting upgrades. Additionally, The Course at Flora Park is set to host future youth, collegiate, and masters -level cross country running events. Develop Underutilized City -Owned Areas The City of Spokane Valley owns a few unique recreation assets that are underused or undeveloped. Identifying opportunities for these sites is a priority and each could help expand the City's tourist attractions like a visitor's center, farmers market, or a whitewater course with associated park. The City has identified future parks and recreational spaces at the Summerfield and Ponderosa properties and underutilized land south of Valley Mission Park. The Parks Master Plan envisions future planning efforts to program and design these areas. Make Recreation Space Accessible The City of Spokane Valley was developed at suburban densities, an important feature loved by residents. While the City has a number of neighborhood scale parks, there are areas that don't have access to park land, especially in the north part of the City. This is illustrated in the level of service analysis within the Parks Master Plan. Opportunities for neighborhood scale parks are limited, so smaller scale park facilities may offer park space to residents. Additionally, the non -motorized travel network is limited and providing non -motorized access to parks will continue to be a challenge in the future. The Appleway Trail expansion has improved local connections, but north -south links are still limited. Future expansions of the Appleway Trail and north -south connections, including a pedestrian bridge to Flora Park, are planned to provide key linkages to park facilities and create off-street travel ways for residents. Community and Economic Development Priorities Parks are often an immediate top -of -mind thought when residents think of services the City provides, and improving and maintaining them are typically a priority for residents. Parks and recreation are SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 17 often an introduction to the community for visitors, and these amenities encourage visitors to stay longer. Thus, parks, recreation, open space, and the arts play a key role in being both a community priority, from a resident's perspective, and an economic development priority, from a tourist perspective. Enhance the City's Identity Parks and recreation facilities can be a sales pitch for the community to visitors, and the quality of these facilities and inherent recreation assets can therefore improve the image of Spokane Valley and build its brand. This may be through larger projects, such as The Course at Flora Park, orthrough improvements to neighborhood parks. The following priorities represent opportunities to use parks, recreation, and open spaces to strengthen the City's identity: • Strengthen and improve Spokane Valley's identity by improving the City's key gateways, similar to the improvements made at Sprague Avenue and Appleway Boulevard near 1-90. Take advantage of public property to create a sense of place, letting visitors and residents know they've arrived in the City of Spokane Valley. • Leverage local and regional assets like the Centennial and Appleway Trails, the Spokane River, and community parks. While the City has remained aligned with the County's 2025 Open Space Priorities, ensure that the goals and policies take advantage of regional recreational assets that visitors and residents use, and find ways to enhance their use and extend visitor stays. • Expand the City's role in existing events, regionally and locally. Look for ways to increase exposure for local destinations that are overlooked or underused. Promote expanded athletic events held in and around the City. • Grow Spokane Valley's market share of tourism by investing in new tourist attractions that support the recreational and open space assets and values of the City. • Enhance and develop opportunities to support the local and regional arts. • Partner with local businesses and community organizations to provide a wider portfolio of recreational opportunities. Best Practices Coordinate with Recreation Providers Coordinating efforts and investments with other recreation providers may ensure efficient service provision where possible and also offer opportunities to expand the City's network of recreation - related open spaces. SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 18 Use Multifunctional Infrastructure Where possible and when feasible, continue investing in infrastructure pieces that play more than one role can increase the return on the City's investment and decrease maintenance costs. Support Programming and Activation Support recreation programming and events that increase use of park facilities and provide community benefit. Engage the Community Around Park Planning Efforts As the City continues to improve existing park facilities and develop new ones, community feedback should be an early and regular part of the park planning process. PARKS AND RECREATION GOALS AND POLICIES Goals P-GI Develop, grow, and maintain a diverse and accessible park, recreation, trail, and open space system that enhances community character. P-G2 Engage community organizations and local businesses to strengthen community partnerships and recreational opportunities. P-G3 Establish safe and accessible linkages between parks and recreational facilities. P-G4 Promote economic development and tourism through park facilities, youth sports, and programming. Policies P-PI Support local community partnerships, performing arts, and community events to enhance arts - focused recreational programming. P-P2 Identify land for the development of parks or the preservation of open space within currently underserved areas of the city based on walkability mapping. P-P3 Using the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, periodically assess recreational facilities to identify potential gaps and improvements. P-P4 Implement innovative strategies for park maintenance and park safety to increase park usability and accessibility. SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 19 P-P5 Design parks, community facilities, and surrounding areas to provide easy access for pedestrians, bicycles, autos, and public transit incoordination with the City's 2026 Active Transportation Plan. P-P6 Seek grants, private land donations, and otherfunding sources for land acquisition and recreational facilities development. P-P7 Identify and protect regional open spaces and natural areas to form a connected network of active and passive recreation areas. P-P8 Plan for access to parks, trails, and other open spaces in all neighborhoods. P-P9 Support the inclusion of artwork from local artists in public places. P-P10 Support the voluntary inclusion of common open space and public art in new development. P-P31 Partner with public and private entities to encourage, sponsor, and support a range of public activities and special events within appropriate open spaces. P-P32 Create shade opportunities in neighborhood parks through the use of shade structures and added tree canopy. P-P33 Conduct systemwide maintenance assessments including park irrigation and lighting. P-P34 Engage the local community during park planning exercises, including implementing a mechanism for park visitors to provide feedback on their experience at city parks. P-P35 Conduct an aquatics assessment and feasibility study with option to master plan renovated aquatics facilities. P-P36 Establish a regular cadence for meetings with local community organizations such as the YMCA to discuss partnership opportunities or overlap in programming. Strategies P-S1 Leverage the Appleway Trail to improve adjacent business opportunities and increase east -west City connectivity. P-S2 Seek funding to develop north -south trail connections between key east -west corridors. P-S3 Evaluate the feasibility of constructing a whitewater course on the Spokane River. P-S4 Evaluate the feasibility of creating and enhancing public access along the Spokane River. SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 20 P-S5 Seek funding to construct a pedestrian bridge across the Spokane River connecting Flora Park to the Centennial Trail. P-S6 Evaluate the feasibility of creating a river trail on the north bank of the Spokane River connecting Flora Park, Sullivan Park, and Plante s Ferry. P-S7 Identify locations to incorporate public art in new developments or City facilities. P-S8 Develop a Friends of Spokane Valley Parks type organization that can assist in advocating for city parks and recreational programs. P-S9 Develop an MOU with the Spokane Parks Foundation to enable park donations and parks capital projects fundraising. SPOKANE VALLEY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE. PARKS ELEMENT I PAGE 21