Spokane Council debates no turn on red policy for Riverside neighborhood

The Spokane City Council took a significant step towards enhancing pedestrian safety during their May 12, 2025, meeting by approving Resolution 2025-30, which supports the implementation of a no turn on red policy in the Riverside neighborhood. This decision comes in response to alarming statistics revealing that the Riverside area has experienced 19 pedestrian fatalities over the past decade, with the majority occurring at intersections.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted the urgency of this measure. Eric Lowe, a resident, emphasized the dangers posed by turns on red, citing a study from the Mineta Transportation Institute that found such maneuvers increase risks for pedestrians and cyclists. He advocated for the expansion of this policy beyond Riverside, suggesting that other neighborhoods, like Logan, also require similar protections.

Conversely, some residents expressed concerns about the effectiveness of the no turn on red policy. Will Hewings, a downtown resident, argued that the real issues affecting pedestrian safety stem from unpredictable behaviors of individuals in the area, rather than traffic regulations. He called for a more comprehensive approach to address the underlying problems of safety in Spokane.

Support for the resolution was also voiced by Abby Sachs and Sarah Rose, who shared personal experiences of feeling unsafe while navigating the city. They urged the council to consider a citywide ban on turns on red, highlighting the need for better enforcement and infrastructure to protect pedestrians.

The council's decision marks a pivotal moment in Spokane's efforts to improve road safety for all users. As the city moves forward with implementing this policy, the focus will be on ensuring that it is effectively enforced and potentially expanded to other neighborhoods, reinforcing the commitment to creating a safer environment for pedestrians throughout Spokane.