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City to install four pedestrian hybrid beacons at schools, trails and college access points
Summary
Staff briefed council committee on four planned arterial pedestrian hybrid beacons—locations include near Ferris High School and Community College—and said construction is nearly ready pending a final right-of-way clearance from a property owner.
Spokane transportation staff told a City Council subcommittee on June 15 they plan to install four arterial pedestrian hybrid beacons at intersections identified as pedestrian generators: Regal & Thurston near Ferris High School, Market & Columbia near a pool and trail connection, Nevada & Cozza in an apartment-heavy neighborhood, and Wistock’s (near Community College) where a recent fatality heightened urgency.
Staff said design is nearly complete and that only one remaining right-of-way clearance from a property owner is delaying advertisement of the construction package. The beacons were sited on the side of intersections chosen to minimize conflicts with right turns and driveways and to match existing trail or pedestrian infrastructure.
Why it matters: Staff said the devices are intended to make busy crossings safer near schools, transit stops and trail connections and noted one location had a recent fatality. Councilmembers asked questions about placement on the north or west sides of particular intersections; staff explained those choices reflect turning movements, trail alignments and constraints such as driveways.
Next steps: Staff will finalize right-of-way clearances, advertise for bids and return with a low-bid award for construction. Installation timing will follow procurement and scheduling of construction contracts.
Ending: Council thanked staff for the work and asked for updates on procurement and schedule to minimize delays near schools and the college.
