Stretch of Centennial Trail closed through the summer

SPOKANE VALLEY, WA - Many people are celebrating the spring season by heading outside. However, some walkers and cyclists may have to find a new go-to spot.

Fourteen miles of the Centennial Trail will be closed for the season to lay new asphalt. The impacted stretch starts at the Idaho/Washington state border and continues until the Donkey Islands trailhead in Millwood.

According to Washington Parks, the first stretch of the trail still has its original asphalt. That means it has been untouched for more than thirty years.

The trail gets a lot of love daily, including those who commute to and from work on their bike.

"Most of the comments that we get from folks that frequent that section of the trail, particularly bicyclists, are it's very bumpy. So after this project, it's going to be smooth as silk," said Rex Schultz, Community Engagement Manager of Spokane Parks.

The trail is a priority for Washington Parks due to the high amount of traffic it experiences daily.

"We take our chances when we have the funding available to make our improvements and this is the right time to do it. And we think we're going to end up with a wonderful project for people to enjoy for many years to come," said Schultz.

On Friday, the Spokane Women’s Bicycle Club took to the Donkey Islands trailhead for their weekly ride. This was their last trip along the stretch for months. While the women were sad about the impending closure, their feeling of excitement for the finished product prevails.

"I'm looking forward to the results. You know, it will be wonderful to have a smooth trail again and the amenities I'm sure will be wonderful as well," said cyclist Erica Dellwo.

From today through early September, crews will focus on repairing damaged sections of the trail, laying new asphalt, and enhancing overall safety. The goal is to be finished by Labor Day.

According to Washington Parks, the plan is to have all fourteen miles closed at once. They will reassess as work is completed and provide updates on the closure on the Washington Parks website.

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