Bridge Vote Proposal Moves Ahead

Tue., Nov. 24, 1998

The City Council is sending Cherie Rodgers out to collect signatures on her proposal to require a vote of the people before public money is spent to build vehicle bridges within the central falls area of the Spokane River.

The council Monday night approved the ballot title with Councilwoman Phyllis Holmes absent, Rodgers abstaining and Councilman Rob Higgins opposed.

Rodgers’ proposal would amend the city charter if approved by voters.

City Attorney James Sloane said even if the initiative was put on the ballot and approved by voters, it wouldn’t apply to the Lincoln Street bridge project, which is now too far along in the planning process.

However, if the council for some reason stops development of the Lincoln Street bridge, and proposes an alternative in the same general area, it would be subject to a public vote if Rodgers’ charter amendment is in place.

Rodgers’ proposal also doesn’t apply to widening the Monroe Street Bridge or the Post Street Bridge, only to adding new vehicle bridges.

The city is at a standstill on the Lincoln Street bridge project, pending a decision from the state shorelines hearings board.

Rodgers, who opposes the plan to build the bridge across the Spokane River gorge, said she’s concerned about the city’s ability to adequately preserve the character and natural environment of the Spokane River’s central falls area.

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