City Cedes Property To Aid Redevelopment West Of Gu

A proposal to bring new life to a row of warehouses near Gonzaga University received an early boost Monday from the Spokane City Council.

The council agreed to give up public ownership of 14 feet of street right of way on the north side of DeSmet Avenue east of Ruby so the strip could be used for private development.

The partial street vacation is a beginning in a larger redevelopment project envisioned by property owners on DeSmet between Division and Pearl streets just west of Gonzaga University.

Owners want to turn the row of older warehouse buildings into an historic district with shops, loft apartments and eateries.

Proponents, including developer Jim Delegans, may seek a listing on the National Register of Historic Places to provide tax advantages for redevelopment work.

In other business, the City Council on Monday:

Failed in a 3-2 vote to approve the paving of the alley between Howard and Stevens streets from Queen to Everett avenues after two residents on the alley voiced objections. Two council members were absent.

The issue will go back before the council next Monday for a second vote, when six council members are expected to be at the meeting.

Approved a property tax assessment roll for paving and sidewalks of parts of several streets in northeast Spokane. The projects are intended to reduce dust pollution in the city.

The streets are generally south of the Northeast Community Center.

Set a public hearing before the hearing examiner for July 2 at 3 p.m. at City Hall for paving of the alley between Bridgeport and Liberty avenues between Morton and Perry streets.

Relinquished public ownership of the alley between Cleveland and Grace avenues from Nettleton to Hemlock streets.

Authorized an agreement with the state Urban Arterial Trust Account for widening of Indiana Avenue between Standard and Columbus streets. The state is expected to provide $309,500 for the job.

, DataTimes