ROCKET GULCH STAIRS
Project Overview
Rocket Gulch is a steep gully just south of the Rocket Market (near 43rd St and Hatch Rd). A 30’ public right-of-way provides access, but it's easy to miss. Once you find it, the trail quickly connects you to all of the Bluff's main trails and is the closest public access to Hangman Creek and the southern portion of the trail network.
When Friends of the Bluff first approached the city there was a fence blocking the access. This fence was removed in 2017 and some adventurous hikers willing to navigate loose rock and gravel with no firm footing are now traversing down a steep slope to the trails. Friends of the Bluff wants to see this trail improved so it can be used as a safe access for users with average walking abilities.
Stairs are needed on the steepest section for safety and erosion control. The Friends of the Bluff worked with Spokane Parks and AHBL landscape architects to design a Spokane Parks-approved design that will provide safe access and minimal impact to the neighbors. This “Neighborhood Access” will not have designated parking and is for the use of the neighborhood.
We encourage you to attend one of our information sessions if you'd like ot learn more:
Informative Fundraiser
May 10, 7-9 pm
Join us to kick off Rocket Market's Summer Music series! This event will feature live music, project information, and more.
The mockup is intended to give you an idea of what the project will look like. It is not exact representation of the final result.
FUNDING SHORTFALL
After receiving an initial estimate of $100,000, Friends of the Bluff worked with a trail-building contractor to bring the cost down to $58,000. Since then, we’ve secured:
Since then, we’ve secured:
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$8,000 of project materials from Spokane Parks and Recreation
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$7,000 grant from Spokane Parks Foundation
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$500 donation from Bartlett Tree Experts
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Up to $30,000 of Friends of the Bluff’s available funds
Construction is likely to begin in late May, but there is still a need to raise more funds. Will you help us?
Want To Do More?
We will be going door-to-door to all of the homes within .5 miles of Rocket Market to hand out flyers, share information, and raise funds. You can join an upcoming canvassing event led by a FOB member, or we can provide materials to you and you can canvass independently at a time of your choosing. All canvassing volunteers will receive a free FOB T-shirt! If you are willing to help, RSVP below.
WHY ROCKET GULCH?
Although there are more than a dozen access points and parking areas along the border of the bluff, Rocket Gulch is the only public access South of 40th Ave. For those who live near the Rocket Gulch, this project offers unbeatable access to the Bluff's trail network.
Your donation will help us ensure that this trail is safe for recreationists who enjoy the Bluff and wish to explore the southern trail network, while creating an access within walking distance of home for thousands of residents who are currently without one.