Together Spokane is moving past the blueprint phase, with construction beginning on scores of projects in neighborhoods across the city.
Earlier this week, Spokane Public Schools Superintendent Adam Swinyard and Spokane Parks and Recreation Director Garrett Jones met with members of the media at Shadle Park to talk through Phase 1, which includes projects starting over the next 12 to 18 months.
“First off, I want to say thanks again to the voters of Spokane for investing in parks and schools,” said Jones. “When we look at this historic investment in our community around every park, every school within the city of Spokane, it’s just a great opportunity.”
Soon after voters approved the SPS bond and Parks levy, demolition work began at Adams Elementary, which was shovel ready following design work completed under the 2015 bond.
Spokanites should expect to see other projects starting in the coming weeks. Visit any project page below and tap “Follow” to receive updates. A full list of Phase 1 projects can be found at togetherspokane.org.
Adams Elementary Rebuild: Demolition underway
Citywide All-weather Fields: Shadle Park all-weather field set to open this fall, one other field may be under construction this summer as well.
Madison School and Recreation Center: Seeking Progressive Design Build approval
Merkel Sports Complex Expansion: Design begins in May, construction starts spring 2027
New Trades High School: Exploring options with Spokane Community College leaders
North Central High School Modernization: Design firm selected, general contractor search is ongoing
Facility Improvements at Schools: Annual plan to address critical infrastructure approved by SPS Board
“Since November, we've been working diligently to scope out the timing of each project, really carefully considering the readiness of those properties, as well as thinking about the impact of inflation, the timing of costs, and also about geographically continuing to benefit all parts of our community,” Dr. Swinyard told reporters Tuesday. “These first projects were selected with intention – prioritizing readiness, community impact, and the ability to move quickly.”
Beyond construction, Together Spokane reflects the broader vision of creating more opportunities for students, families, and other residents to stay active, connected, and engaged.
“We want everyone in our community off of their phones, out of their house, doing something every day in real life, being active,” Dr. Swinyard said. “We know that's good for kids. We know it's good for adults. It's good for our aging population and you need infrastructure to make that happen.”
The strong alignment among SPS, Parks, and other organizations is leveraging resources and expertise to deliver projects that serve the entire community. Dr. Swinyard said he expects to see this as the new norm in our community.
“We don't worry about who has the power, who has the control, we don't worry about territorialism, we don't worry about what zip code you live in,” he said. “It's about making Spokane the best place it could possibly be. The way to do that is through partnerships.”
The SPS board of directors also heard an update on Phase 1 projects during their regular meeting Wednesday, after which they emphasized the importance of delivering on the trust placed in the district.
“I know that for voters, passing this bond was a big leap of faith and it was a big amount of trust that they placed in us to use those dollars wisely,” said Director Nicole Bishop. “For me, I'm delighted to see the extent to which these opportunities are being maximized.”
Phase One projects will continue rolling out into the first half of 2027, with additional phases already in development. As work progresses, community input will remain an important part of shaping each project.
Learn about the projects in your neighborhood at Together Spokane.
IN THE NEWS
KREM: “Spokane Public Schools, Parks and Rec give update on "Together Spokane" priority projects”
KHQ: “Together Spokane moves forward with 'Phase 1 Projects'”
Spokane Public Radio: SPR News Today and Inland Journal
