The Spokane Land Bank has a new executive director, a new office space, and is looking to branch off from its umbrella organization. 

Barry Baker, longtime president and CEO of prominent Spokane-based contracting company Baker Construction & Development Inc., has transitioned to the role of company chairman, triggering a series of leadership changes effective Wednesday, Jan. 1

A pair of housing projects soon will turn the Garland District into a case study examining the effects of the city’s decision to remove minimum parking requirements for new developments.

Construction is expected to begin by early spring on a multifamily affordable housing project at 6980 N. Nevada.

Construction industry wage growth is expected to grow at a rate greater than inflation, but at a slower rate than seen in previous years.

The Machinists Institute is expanding its Spokane training center with a $3.6 million tenant improvement project.

Kootenai County has a lot of economic opportunities ahead, although it faces challenges of a tight labor supply and a need for attainable housing.

Real estate affordability has been a top concern in Spokane and Kootenai counties this year for both the commercial and residential markets, and high costs are expected to persist in the new year.