Document Type
Report
Abstract
This report presents findings from a multi-methods research initiative exploring the impacts of climate-related hazards—specifically extreme heat and wildfire smoke—on residents of Spokane’s East Central neighborhood. The project combined a community survey with a World Café-style symposium to gather both quantitative data and lived experiences from local participants. Key themes that emerged include the need for more cooling infrastructure, accessible health education, improved indoor air quality, and stronger neighborhood-level communication and support networks. The report highlights how systemic underinvestment in East Central intersects with climate vulnerability, underscoring the urgency of equitable, community-driven solutions. Recommendations include expanding tree canopy, increasing funding for cooling and filtration resources, and fostering neighborhood resilience through culturally responsive outreach and engagement. This work reflects a commitment to centering resident voices in climate adaptation planning and advancing environmental justice.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.33972/ccse.2025.02
Publication Date
6-2025
Keywords
climate, community, resilience, urban heat resistance; urban smoke resistance, community, climate adaptation
Disciplines
Environmental Sciences | Environmental Studies
Recommended Citation
Matousek, S.B., A. Gray, D. Jester, B.G. Henning, 2025. “Heat, Smoke, and Resilience in East Central Spokane: Community Insights on Climate Adaptation,” Report prepared by Gonzaga Institute for Climate, Water, and the Environment, Spokane, Washington. https://doi.org/10.33972/ccse.2025.02.
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Comments
This report was made possible by a Climate and Health Adaptation Initiative grant from the Washington State Department of Health.
Appreciation is given to Logan Kinnard (CivicSpark AmeriCorps), Kendall Scipio-Shepard, Kylie Corcoran, Emma Swenson, Juliette Aguilar-Gomez, Ellen Lewis, CJ Kreitlow, Kim Lenz, Jillisa Winkler (Carl Maxey Center), and Michaela Beals (Washington State Department of Health) for their collaboration.