~ Spokane Complex Fire Causes Damage to Parks and Recreation Properties

As the Spokane Complex Fire continues to rage on, the city's Parks and Recreation department has released an update on the status of their properties. The fire, which started on August 12, 2026, has caused significant damage to several parks and recreation areas in the city.

According to the update, developed and manicured city parks that were previously in evacuation zones are now open to the public. These include Westgate Park (only the developed area), Indian Trail Park, Sky Prairie Park, Pacific Park, and all sports complexes except for Dwight Merkel Sports Complex which will open on Thursday, August 13.

However, undeveloped and natural parks that were in evacuation zones remain closed until further notice. This is to allow crews to conduct full hazard tree assessments and removals. The public is advised to avoid these areas as there may still be unstable trees or hanging branches.

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Parks crews are currently attending a damage assessment class produced by Washington State Emergency Management. Once completed, they will conduct thorough assessments of all damaged amenities and repair them accordingly. It has been reported that the playground at Westgate Park is a total loss but was already scheduled for replacement under the Park Levy project in late fall 2026 or early spring 2027.

In addition to park properties, fire and urban forestry crews are also working on removing hazard trees along city streets. They have completed their work in all open parks but are still ongoing in natural areas. Avista Utilities contract crews have also been brought in to remove fire-damaged trees near power lines and utility equipment for public safety.

The construction of Meadowglen Park, which just broke ground a few weeks ago, was put on hold during the evacuation period. However, it will resume shortly with additional safety measures in place as per a site-specific Wildfire Mitigation Plan created by contractor Cameron Reily.

As more damage reports become available, the Parks and Recreation department will continue to update the public. In the meantime, they urge everyone to stay safe and avoid any closed areas for their own protection. For more information, contact Parks and Recreation at 311 or 509.755.2489.

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