SPOKANE, Wash. – The Victory Heights project in Latah Valley has cleared a regulatory hurdle, allowing the construction of a roundabout to proceed.
This step is part of a larger plan to build 1,000 homes in the area, but not without opposition from local residents.
The development is set to be located just south of Thorpe and west of Highway 195.
A new agreement between the city and Washington State Department of Transportation permits the developer to construct a roundabout at Grove and Thorpe Road, with county funding contributing to the construction.
Despite progress, some neighbors have expressed concerns about potential risks.
One resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, cited wildfire risks and increased traffic as major worries.
“If a wildfire were to spark, I wouldn’t be able to get out because of the development’s placement in regard to the Thorpe tunnels,” she said.
Traffic congestion is another concern for residents.
“The intersection at 195 is already frightening,” she noted, fearing the addition of at least 4,000 more cars.
The developer’s other project, Latah Park Development, is currently on hold due to a moratorium, which would add another 1,000 homes to the area.
Another concerned resident from Thorpe area shared her worries via text message.
Her main points include water supply, trees and wildlife, traffic, city parks, and utilities.
She fears the aquifer may not meet demand and that the development and wildlife would lose their habitat.
Traffic infrastructure is also a concern, as she believes the roads are insufficient for the projected increase.
She also pointed out the lack of designated open spaces for parks and the need for another substation to power the homes.
Efforts to reach the developer were unsuccessful before the deadline.
The City of Spokane emailed NonStop Local late Tuesday afternoon and said it “has nothing to share.”
