Board flags missed bicycle opportunities in resurfacing work and reviews 2026 project slate
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Summary
Members raised concerns that recent grind-and-overlay projects (for example Rockwood Boulevard) were completed without bicycle upgrades; Tyler reviewed a long list of 2026 projects (Elm Street Greenway, Fish Lake Trail phases, Spokane Falls Boulevard concepts, PHBs and multiple grind-and-overlay segments) and asked members to prioritize corridors for deeper review.
During public comment and the project-review portion of the Nov. 18 meeting, board members highlighted a recurring issue: when the city completes grind-and-overlay resurfacing, it can miss opportunities to add or improve bicycle facilities. Grant, a South Hill resident, said the recent Rockwood Boulevard grind-and-overlay left the corridor smoother but less safe for cyclists because vehicle speeds rose and turn lanes consumed space that could have accommodated bike lanes.
Tyler acknowledged the concern and explained the difference between resurfacing (grind-and-overlay) and crack-seal work. He said grind-and-overlay projects remove several inches of asphalt and may allow for reconfiguration of lane widths, while crack-seal work typically does not provide an opportunity to change striping or add facilities. Being on the Bicycle Priority Network helps trigger design reviews so that resurfacing projects consider bicycle accommodations.
Tyler then walked the board through the 2026 project maps and schedule. Notable items included Elm Street Greenway (new bike turn box and green striping), Rockwood traffic-calming bump-outs, Fish Lake Trail connection (phase 1 Thorpe to Government Way), Pacific Ave Greenway and Sunset Highway/Sherry’s Path (phased work), buffered bike lanes on a 37th-to-30th segment, and a conceptual two-way cycle track rendering for Spokane Falls Boulevard (design in 2026). He also listed planned pedestrian hybrid beacon (PHB) locations intended to tie into the Children of the Sun/ Centennials greenway.
Members raised maintenance and operational issues: debris and parked cars in bike lanes near schools, the visual clarity of green markings for drivers, and the need for better driver education (including possible DMV/manual changes or interpretive signage at installations). Tyler said the presentation would be emailed to members and that staff welcome requests for deeper dives into specific corridors (members requested Millwood Trail and Assembly/Francis/9 Mile).