Spokane council adopts 2027–2032 Six‑Year Street Program, highlighting bridge and safety projects

The Spokane City Council voted to adopt the 2027–2032 Six‑Year Street Program following a staff presentation that outlined 11 new projects and the funding status for each.

Kevin, the council director of integrated capital management, told the council the program is the city’s mechanism for implementing the transportation goals in the comprehensive plan and said the update must be completed before July 1 under state law. "Once projects are in the six‑year program we can identify funding for those projects and then, once they’re funded, proceed through design and ultimately construction," he said.

The presentation listed 11 new projects, eight of which are grant‑funded, with roughly $15 million in grant funds secured in the last year. Staff highlighted several projects likely to move forward in 2027–2028: a Monroe Street bridge deck rehabilitation (structural work at the south end jump span, not yet fully funded), a $1.6 million small‑bridges bundle (Sprague Avenue and two First/Riverside spans) that is fully funded with federal dollars, and a Grand Boulevard overlay and restriping project that will convert a portion of roadway from four travel lanes to a three‑lane cross‑section with a center left‑turn lane and pedestrian crossing and signal modifications.

Kevin identified a larger bundle of preservation projects funded through the National Highway System asset management program that includes the Maple‑Ash corridor, noting the project will require more analysis and is not expected to reach construction until 2028. He also described a Centennial Trail upgrade study (city cost about $400,000 with about $270,000 in grant funds), sidewalk infill on Alberta Street (state grant funds, roughly $650,000), and several chip‑seal and overlay projects for 2027–2028.

Councilmember Dillon praised planned pedestrian improvements and rapid‑flashing beacons on Sprague, saying the crossings will be “very meaningful.” After limited council comment, the public hearing was closed and the council adopted the Six‑Year Street Program by voice vote.

City staff noted the council packet includes a full program document and a project web page for details, and staff said funding identification and project sequencing will continue as design and grant opportunities are finalized. For projects not yet fully funded, staff said they will continue to pursue grants and fast‑track work where feasible.

The council adjourned the hearing portion of the meeting and proceeded to the legislative agenda.