Downtown Lewiston received a $2.4 million grant from the Idaho Department of Commerce this week for a comprehensive streetscape and infrastructure improvement project that city officials say will transform the central business district into a more walkable, attractive destination for residents and visitors. The grant, awarded through the Idaho Community Development Block Grant program, will fund sidewalk reconstruction, street lighting upgrades, new landscaping, public art installations, and the creation of a central gathering plaza.
The project targets a six-block area of downtown Lewiston that has served as the community’s commercial and civic heart for over a century but has seen aging infrastructure and competition from newer commercial corridors erode its vibrancy. Mayor and city council members have identified downtown revitalization as a top strategic priority, viewing a strong central district as essential to Nez Perce County’s identity and economic competitiveness.
What the Downtown Project Includes
The improvement plan, developed with input from downtown business owners and community members through a series of public workshops in 2025, includes several interconnected elements. Sidewalks along the main commercial blocks will be widened and rebuilt with decorative pavers, providing more space for outdoor dining, retail displays, and pedestrian circulation. ADA accessibility improvements will ensure the downtown is navigable for people of all abilities.
New LED street lighting will replace aging fixtures, improving safety and creating a warmer evening ambiance. Drought-resistant landscaping and street trees will add greenery and shade. A central gathering plaza — designed as a flexible space for farmers markets, community events, and casual gathering — will be constructed on a currently underutilized city-owned parcel.
“A vibrant downtown is the signature of a healthy community,” the mayor said at the grant announcement ceremony. “When people visit Lewiston and walk through our downtown, we want them to see a place that’s alive, welcoming, and proud of itself. This project makes that vision real.”
Economic Impact on Nez Perce County Businesses
Downtown business owners expressed strong support for the project, noting that similar revitalization efforts in other Idaho communities have consistently led to increased foot traffic, higher retail sales, and new business openings. The Lewiston Downtown Association projects the improvements will attract 3-5 new businesses within two years of completion and increase downtown property values by 10-15%.
The construction phase will generate approximately 40-50 jobs and direct spending to local contractors and suppliers. The city has committed to prioritizing Nez Perce County businesses in its procurement for the project.
What Comes Next
Design work begins in May, with construction targeted for spring 2027. The project will be phased to maintain business access throughout construction. Residents and business owners can follow project updates through the city’s website or attend the downtown planning committee meetings. The grant does not require any property tax increase for Nez Perce County residents. For similar community development stories across Idaho, visit the Idaho News Network.