Hillyard Has Hopes Of Preserving Heritage, Attracting Businesses

A lthough there are no deep pockets or federal grant monies, Hillyard business owners are piecing together a plan for their future.

The Greater Hillyard Business Association has several projects under way - including a new museum and public murals - that could help to better define the neighborhood, attract business and draw more shoppers.

“Hillyard over the years has always been a family place,” said Todd Homa, business association president. “Unfortunately it’s suffered from misperceptions - we’re trying to change that.”

The association, along with the neighborhood steering committee and staff at the Northeast Community Center, is accumulating demographic information as well as information about land and business ownerships. After the information is analyzed, efforts will get under way to recruit new businesses.

With abundant land and lots of vehicle traffic, possibilities include light manufacturing, small familyowned operations or home businesses that have outgrown quarters.

Hillyard used to be its own city until annexed by Spokane in 1924. It had a city hall, police and fire departments and close ties to Great Northern Railway and rail magnate James Hill, for whom it was named.

Hillyard’s leaders are hoping to preserve some of that heritage in a museum, which would be used as a focal point for tourism. City Councilman Mike Brewer said a parcel of land at Queen and Market would be home to the museum.

The association needs $30,000 for the purchase and another $100,000 to sustain the museum. A railroad caboose and boxcar would be moved on the site and used as the foundation for the displays.

The rail cars are now on an empty parcel of railroad property but aren’t open regularly, and there is no formal display or historical backdrop.

Brewer, who is heading fund raising, has already received $9,000 in cash and pledges from service groups for more.

Spokane artist T.C. Quinn has been commissioned to paint murals in the neighborhood. One depicting an old railroad yard scene was completed last year at Wellesley and Market. Another has been commissioned for this year. Hillyard leaders hope to paint at least one mural a year.

“We’d like to have every spare wall in downtown Hillyard adorned with some type of traditional mural,” Homa said.

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Photo