Spokane's Bethany Presbyterian Church is no stranger to change, after relocating some time ago due to the future North Spokane Corridor freeway construction, then a fire ravaged their new home at 2607 S. Ray causing the congregation to temporally relocate again. Today they are currently renting space from another Presbyterian Church on Knox Ave. But the church is now planning another change with the redevelopment of their S. Ray campus and collaborating with some local nonprofits to provide for the community as well.
The newly redeveloped site is to include two, three-story buildings that will include 22 total affordable housing units and community building designed as a hub for both Bethany Church congregation and the greater Spokane community. This after demolishing the existing fire damaged building that is currently on the site. The community building will include a variety of spaces, including a gathering area for church members, a community kitchen, meeting rooms and classrooms. These will be used for educational programs, including 12-step programs and second language classes fostering a sense of community, support and learning.
The church has partnered with Proclaim Liberty, a housing non-profit created by the Presbytery of the Inland Northwest in 1971, to serve as the project sponsor. "We are so grateful for the guidance and support of Kiemle Hagood as well as Proclaim Liberty. We hope to help support Spokane residents that trying to get affordable housing" said Sharon Smith, Director of Choir and Worship for Bethany Presbyterian Church. Kiemle Hagood has been engaged as the owner's representative throughout the process of development and construction.
In all the redevelopment project is set to cost $12.4 million. One of the apartment buildings will have 10 units and the other will have 12. Three one bedroom, fourteen two bedroom and five three-bedroom floorplans will be offered in the development. Some units will be set aside for clients of Family Promise of Spokane, some for Thrive International to assist in housing their refugee and immigrant clients and the others will be offered to the general Spokane community.
To keep track of the progress with the redevelopment, visit Bethany Presbyterian Church's redevelopment website at https://bethanyspokane.org/re-building.html
