Politicians push for more North Spokane Corridor funding | News

Politicians were out pushing for more funding for the North Spokane Corridor Friday morning.

Both Senator Maria Cantwell and Spokane Mayor David Condon toured a construction site on the southbound lanes of the North Spokane Corridor.

"There are so many benefits to this project, everything from adding the ability to move freight easier, to better access for just daily commuters, to the infrastructure investments for pedestrians," Cantwell said.

She urged U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to support an $18.9 million transportation grant for the massive project. LaHood will announce whether the freeway gets the grant next month.

Once the freeway is fully complete, it will connect I-90 near Thor Street all the way up to Highway 2 in North Spokane.

“The North Spokane Corridor is critical for Eastern Washington businesses and jobs,” Cantwell said. “When the North Spokane Corridor is done, $13 billion of freight will stop clogging city streets and start moving down a wide-open highway. This is a critical investment for Spokane area businesses, families and travelers.” 

“The North Spokane Corridor is the region’s top transportation priority,” Mayor Condon said. “With the strong support of our federal and state officials, we have a tremendous opportunity to continue its construction for the benefit of our economy and our citizens.”

If granted, the new funding will relocate 7.5 miles of BNSF rail near the Freya street interchange, build two new overpasses and extend an existing 5.5-mile bicycle/pedestrian trail connecting to the Hillyward Neighborhood.

The complete North Spokane Corridor will increase access to more than 500 acres of commercial and industrial land.