North Spokane Corridor - Impacts

Impacts

The highway is expected to significantly improve traffic through north Spokane. In particular, the highway will allow trucks to avoid the congested Division Street, formerly the only north–south truck route through the city. By moving cars from congested streets to a freeway, WSDOT predicts that it will reduce auto emissions by 3.6% annually and save a million gallons of fuel a year. It will also reduce predicted traffic growth on Interstate 90, as new residents move to the North Spokane area instead of elsewhere along the Interstate.

There are 62 known or suspected hazardous waste sites in the freeway's path.

A 1997 report by WSDOT noted that the construction of the southern portion of the freeway will require the demolition of over 500 homes and 100 business, necessitating the relocation of over 1,000 residents. Many of these homes and business are in the poorest and most ethnically diverse neighborhoods of the city. WSDOT purchased many properties in Hillyard and other neighborhoods in 2002. Businesses have been allowed to remaining operating until construction actually begins. Ziggy's store will be closed in 2010 after 45 years in business because of the construction of the freeway. Homes and churches have also been relocated.

Based on history with the construction of Interstate 90, it is forecast that the North Spokane Corridor will result in substantial land-use changes in the area. The completion of I-90 resulted in growth in eastern suburbs that were once small towns, while many neighborhoods in the center of the city experienced poverty and decline. It is predicted that growth and development will occur near the interchanges of the new freeway while areas near connecting sections will remain poor neighborhoods. Whether modern growth management laws will prevent sprawl in northern suburbs is far from certain. The environmental impact statement predicted more development in Pend Oreille County and Deer Park north of the city.