SPOKANE, Wash – The state of Washington has halted an agreement that would have led to the development of about 1,000 homes in Latah Valley.
The Department of Natural Resources announced Friday the agency has come to a mutual agreement to cancel the Thorpe Land Exchange.
The agreement would have traded a 200-acre property near Highway 195 southwest of downtown for a property in Bellingham.
Activists and elected leaders opposed the transfer, some arguing the geological and cultural value.
Others worried about increased traffic in the area, as this is just one of several developments planned for the Latah Valley.
DNR says the cancellation means that agency will continue to manage the land.
Commissioner Dave Upthegrove said it gives the community two years to propose an alternate use of the 200 acres.
“From early days of my administration, the community has asked for more time to find another plan for the property. We now have that chance,” said Commissioner Upthegrove. “With this development, the community has ample time to find a different use for the property that will also meet the needs of the Trust.”
If a new solution can’t be reached, DNR will again seek its own resolution for the property.
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