Spokane transportation chapter updated to prioritize safety, climate targets and maintenance

At the Jan. 14 meeting the Planning Commission received a staff update on the transportation chapter of the comprehensive plan. Colin, presenting the chapter update, said staff reorganized the chapter for clarity, elevated safety as the top transportation priority and incorporated climate-related policy changes that emerged from HB 1181.

Colin told commissioners the chapter now includes explicit direction to establish short- and long-term per-capita vehicle-miles-traveled targets and to expand transportation demand management (TDM) strategies. The chapter update also recommends more aggressive parking policies to reduce excess parking supply and pricing approaches that reflect curb-space value.

Maintenance and funding were emphasized: the chapter adds a goal for sustainable funding to support installation and ongoing maintenance of streetscape elements (planters, lighting, trees and permeable sidewalks). Colin said the city is exploring mechanisms such as grant or city-administered programs to help business districts and property owners maintain streetscape features and suggested earmarking a portion of traffic calming funds for maintenance.

Climate resilience measures — building transportation facilities to withstand hydrologic events and adding shade and cooling infrastructure at transit stops — were added following public input. Colin also noted appendices will include modal elements, project lists and maps (bicycle master plan updates and arterial street plans) that will be compiled before the next commission check-in.

Commissioners asked for clearer language tying maintenance responsibilities to specific departments and funding sources to avoid a ‘hot potato’ among city agencies. Colin said staff will strengthen cross-references and consider a responsibility matrix in later drafts. Staff will return in February with an updated chapter and appendices.