Spokesman-Review Letter to the Editor
Plaza Project is Stupid
Estimates to build the Spokane Transit Authority Plaza were $8 million to $12 million. Final cost: $26 million. Current plaza value: less than $3 million. Now, the STA board would remodel the joint for $4.7 million. These unacceptable numbers make me scramble for two Aleve, or a strong beverage.
Like others when it was to be built, I had envisioned buses being boarded inside this palace to keep riders out of the heat and cold. Benches were not provided for riders. Spokane County Commissioner Steve Hasson brought down some benches. The Spokane City Council argued whether to buy cement benches made by the prisoners in Airway Heights for $200. How comfy on one’s butt come winter.
The STA board and Spokane City Council didn’t want people hanging out in front of the plaza? Easy guess: yes!
I don’t give a rip about the placement of cougars or waterfalls. Spending $4.7 million on a structure worth less than $3 million is plain economic stupidity.
The STA board members need their noggins examined. Also requiring some mental treatment are the light rail and University District foot bridge proponents.
There was a group in Spokane called “Priorities First.” Their name reflects a refreshing way to spend tax money.
Jock Swanstrom
Spokane Valley
Mr. Swanstrom isn't the only person I've heard express this opinion. But then again, I've also heard from people who are excited about it because they don't use the Plaza currently because of concerns about some of the clientele. What's your thoughts on the subject?
The STA board and Spokane City Council didn’t want people hanging out in front of the plaza? Easy guess: yes!
I don’t give a rip about the placement of cougars or waterfalls. Spending $4.7 million on a structure worth less than $3 million is plain economic stupidity.
The STA board members need their noggins examined. Also requiring some mental treatment are the light rail and University District foot bridge proponents.
There was a group in Spokane called “Priorities First.” Their name reflects a refreshing way to spend tax money.
Jock Swanstrom
Spokane Valley
Mr. Swanstrom isn't the only person I've heard express this opinion. But then again, I've also heard from people who are excited about it because they don't use the Plaza currently because of concerns about some of the clientele. What's your thoughts on the subject?
2 comments:
Well for anyone that thinks the Plaza was a waste of money, I want you to stand in front of the Bank of America building on any January evening, but especially on a snowy evening when the wind is whipping the snow around some, and then go stand in the nice warm Plaza. I know they spent a lot of money building it, but it was worth every dollar they spent.
I remember those days too Charles. And with the skywalk I can get all the way from the Plaza to within a block of my work without going outside in the winter!
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