Development in Spokane’s Latah Valley: Controversies and Opportunities

Latah Valley is one of Spokane’s most picturesque areas, offering a mix of natural beauty, newer homes, and sought-after communities like Eagle Ridge. As more people discover the appeal of this untapped region, the demand for housing continues to grow. However, with this growth comes significant controversy, from traffic concerns to wildfire risks. Here’s an in-depth look at current developments in Latah Valley and what they mean for the community.

Overview of Latah Valley

Located in the southwest portion of Spokane, Latah Valley extends along Highway 195, below South Hill. Known for its wooded landscapes, golf courses, and rural charm, this area has a unique appeal. Homes in the valley range from spacious properties on 10+ acres to suburban-style neighborhoods like Eagle Ridge.

Key Challenges in Latah Valley

1. Traffic Issues: Highway 195 is the primary access point, with limited on-ramps and intersections that pose safety hazards. During rush hour, traffic congestion exacerbates these problems.
2. Wildfire Risk: The area’s dense trees and proximity to previous wildfire zones raise safety concerns, especially with plans to increase population density.
3. Development Moratoriums: New building projects have faced restrictions due to these challenges, delaying much-needed housing developments.

Current and Proposed Developments

1. Proposed 160-Acre DNR Land Sale

• Details: The Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is considering selling 160 acres of state-owned land along Highway 195 to developers. The proposed development could bring up to 1,000 homes, making it one of Spokane’s largest residential projects.
• Developer: Blue Fern, a Redmond-based company, owns an adjacent 100 acres and is looking to combine the parcels for a 260-acre development.
• Promise to the Community: The developer has proposed including schools, parks, trails, a firehouse, and commercial spaces to create a well-rounded community similar to Eagle Ridge.
• Public Concerns:
  • Traffic: Increased congestion on already strained roads.
  • Environmental Impact: Potential loss of public space and ecological damage.
  • Accountability: Skepticism about whether the developer will follow through on promises without strict zoning regulations.

2. Marshall Creek Development

• Details: Approved for 425 homes, this project was grandfathered in before the 2020 moratorium.
• Location: Off Cheney Spokane Road, just behind Eagle Ridge.
• Infrastructure Upgrades:
  • A new roundabout at the Cedar Road and Cheney Spokane Road intersection will improve safety.
  • Updates to the Cheney Spokane Road on-ramp to I-90.
• Potential Impact: While the upgrades are a step forward, construction and increased traffic during development may temporarily worsen congestion in the area.

Traffic and Infrastructure Concerns

Access to and from Latah Valley is limited, with bottlenecks at key points like the Thorpe Road and Highway 195 intersection. Solutions like extending Eagle Ridge Boulevard or adding new on-ramps are being discussed but remain years away. These challenges underscore the need for better long-term planning to support new housing.

Balancing Development and Community Needs

The Case for More Housing

• Spokane faces a housing inventory crisis, with demand outpacing supply.
• New developments could help address this issue, especially with plans for mixed-use communities.

The Drawbacks

• Most new homes in these developments are unlikely to be affordable for first-time buyers. Rising construction costs, including compliance with Washington’s energy codes, are pushing prices higher across all levels of the housing market.

Looking Ahead

As development in Latah Valley progresses, residents and city officials must weigh the benefits of expanded housing against the challenges of traffic, environmental impact, and safety. While projects like the DNR land sale and Marshall Creek hold promise, community engagement and proactive planning will be crucial to ensure these developments align with Spokane’s long-term goals.