West Central Community Advocates Secure $300K for Traffic Calming Projects

The Spokane Bicycle Advisory Board meeting held on July 15, 2025, focused on several key projects aimed at improving bicycle infrastructure and safety in the city. A significant discussion centered around the need for better bicycle detours during construction, emphasizing that these detours should be comparable to the facilities being interrupted. Board members expressed concerns about current detour practices and suggested the inclusion of dedicated bike lanes to enhance safety for cyclists.

The meeting also highlighted two major projects nearing completion: the West Central infrastructure project and the Pacific Avenue project. The West Central project, which has received funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), is particularly noteworthy as it originated from community advocacy. Local residents have been actively involved in the project management process, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions regarding the use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds. The neighborhood has requested $300,000 to conduct a study on traffic calming needs, aiming to prioritize and implement several traffic calming projects in the area.

Throughout the meeting, the importance of community engagement was underscored, with neighborhood representatives playing a crucial role in project discussions and planning. The board's commitment to improving bicycle infrastructure reflects a broader goal of enhancing safety and accessibility for cyclists in Spokane. As these projects move forward, the involvement of local residents will continue to shape the future of bicycle-friendly initiatives in the city.