Proposal would rename part of Bridge Avenue to Summit Parkway

A one-block portion of Bridge Avenue between Lincoln and Monroe streets soon could have a new name.

City leaders want it called Summit Parkway, which is the name of the private street that continues west of Monroe along the north bank of the Spokane River through much of the Kendall Yards development. The change is intended to reduce confusion among motorists and emergency responders looking for Summit Parkway while traveling along Lincoln.

The city’s Plan Commission unanimously recommended the change following a June 11 public hearing, and it appears to have broad support on the City Council, which agreed Monday to advance the proposal to a final decision next week.

The renamed section would continue to be a public right of way that would still be maintained by the city and open to vehicular traffic. The section of street had earlier been part of an unsuccessful plan to allow pedestrian-only access.

City officials said the impact of a change would be minimal because none of the parcels along the street have Bridge Avenue addresses.