This month’s featured category is Water Access, and the highlighted project is Three Islands Spokane River Water Access (proposed).
The project sponsor, Spokane Parks and Recreation, will use this $1 million grant to buy over 31 acres, including more than three-quarter mile of shoreline along the Spokane River, less than 2 miles from downtown. The purchase will allow the City to develop the only fishing area on a free-flowing reach of the Spokane River accessible to people with disabilities.*
The project is important to Spokane area anglers as well. This particular site is especially unique because it will allow the public to fish throughout the summer (when the river level drops) on one of the most scenic and biologically productive portions of the river.
Buying the land will preserve the opportunity to move the Centennial Trail off of city streets and onto a separated path. It will also facilitate a trail connection to Spokane Falls Community College and will preserve a well-used single-track trail.
Spokane will contribute a match of more than $1.9 million from Conservation Futures and a grant from the state Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA).
*Note: Spokane is making other great steps towards making city resources and parks more accessible for all! Find out more about the Mission Park Ability Ballfield here, which will serve both youth and adults with disabilities.