Spokane City Council Approves Special Revenue Fund Projects Encouraging Safe Driving

Lisa Gardner, City Council Communications Director, [email protected]

Friday, December 12, 2025 at 2:08 p.m.

During the City Council's Legislative Session on Monday, December 8, 2025, Council voted to approve projects recommended by the Transportation Commission through the "Safe Streets For All Fund."

Highlights include a new protected bike lane in District 1, building on the excellent work on Illinois Avenue; a pedestrian hybrid beacon going in on Ray Street to improve crossing that busy street in District 2; and in District 3, moving away from a speed study on the Maple/Ash corridor and instead implementing speed reduction strategies.

"These projects work to keep our neighborhoods vibrant and filled with cyclists, children, and pets," said Council Member Kitty Klitzke. "These safe street measures, including speed controls, bikeways, and adaptive designs, serve as friendly reminders for everyone to prioritize safety and stay alert to their surroundings. This package also emphasizes completing a 27-mile network of bikeways so bicycles can circulate through the city safely and efficiently, fostering a stronger sense of community."

The Transportation Commission plays a vital role in selecting new projects to improve connectivity and safety across the city. With rapid construction expected to begin in 2026 and projects starting in 2027, they are actively focused on neighborhood needs. Public hearings held in September and October provided valuable community input, and Council was updated on the Commission's final recommendations in November. The Commission is carefully considering key factors, including funding, equitable distribution, safety, and departmental collaboration.

"This resolution approving Safe Streets For All Projects helps fulfill the 27 x 27 Urban Mobility Network as well as fund critical infrastructure based on neighborhood feedback and quick builds that maximize these dollars to have a positive impact," said Council Member Paul Dillon. "By building a more accessible network that connects flashing pedestrian crossings, bike lanes, and Safe Routes to Schools, our residents will see and feel the difference that creates a safer Spokane. I want to thank the Transportation Commission for all their time and effort to move this forward."

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