A Spokane Valley-based real estate development company has purchased 5 Mile Shopping Center, at 1812 W. Francis, and several neighboring commercial buildings for $32 million.

Downtown Spokane’s office vacancy rate has increased to about 30% due to postpandemic business trends, aging buildings, rising rent costs, and safety concerns. 

Providence is investing $9 million to modernize four operating rooms at Sacred Heart Medical Center, located at 101 W. Eighth in Spokane, as part of a multiyear project to revamp all 28 surgical rooms at the hospital.