The Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP) has responded to the results of Greater Spokane Inc.’s (GSI) third edition of The Pulse Community Poll. This independent survey, released last week, reports Spokane residents’ views on policy issues, especially those affecting downtown. The DSP considers the poll an indicator of public opinion and a tool for future planning among business and civic leaders.
The poll shows an improvement in how safe people feel downtown. While there was a slight decrease in safety perceptions since spring 2025, more people now feel safe downtown compared to last year. The DSP links this change to investments in lighting, street activities, and more police presence. The DSP continues to support the idea of a hospitality zone to set standards of conduct and improve coordination among groups downtown.
The poll also found that over 70% of respondents support more funding for mental health response teams, treatment services, and police resources. The DSP’s 2025 Policy Platform supports these priorities. It backs legislation to reduce crime, promote accountability, and encourage partnerships to address mental illness, addiction, and homelessness…