SPOKANE, Wash. — The state wants to hear from Spokane residents about developing unused land around the North Spokane Corridor’s connection to Interstate 90.

Empty lots in East Central will become the final link where the corridor connects to I-90. The question is what happens to the surrounding land the state doesn’t use.

The area once hosted Camp Hope, the Pacific Northwest’s largest homeless encampment. The East Central neighborhood has faced challenges since I-90 split it decades ago.

“That’s why it’s important that the community participate in this process, because we’re the only ones that can hold them accountable,” said Barney Roca, a Spokane neighbor.

New renderings show where the freeway will connect to I-90. Blue boxes mark areas where community input is needed. Roca hopes for “something below it other than another bridge for people to hang out underneath.”

Luc Jasmin III, Eastern Washington liaison to the Governor’s Office, hears community concerns and urges neighbors to speak out. He warns that if residents don’t participate, someone else will make decisions for them.

“Listening to the community and the community speaking out. That’s the importance of participation in these processes,” Roca said.

WSDOT will gather community input over the next few months.

The first town hall is Thursday at 4:30 p.m. at Frances Scott Elementary. Residents can also join virtually through the WSDOT website.

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