Mayor Lisa Brown and Spokane City Council announce new initiatives to improve traffic safety

SPOKANE, Wash. — New initiatives put forward by Mayor Lisa Brown and the Spokane City Council aim to improve traffic safety across the city and combat traffic fatalities.

The city said since the start of the pandemic, traffic fatalities have increased across the country, including in Spokane.

This new package includes policy proposals, infrastructure improvements and law enforcement strategies looking to create safer streets for everyone.

“Prioritizing traffic safety improvements helps build strong, more connected communities. Every new policy and data-driven strategy is a clear investment in protecting lives and creating a safer, stronger Spokane for all,” Mayor Lisa Brown said

One of these proposals would prohibit turning on red lights throughout downtown. If passed, it would be put in place over several years with certain intersections identified based on foot traffic.

Another proposal would be to establish a Play Streets Program. this would make it easier for neighborhoods to close less busy streets and provide spaces for play or community activities. The city said this program will begin in June and run through the end of October.

Police Chief Kevin Hall also announced the formation of a new Traffic Safety and Education Unit. This unit would include four officers focused on traffic safety and an additional three officers focused on DUI enforcement.

“Traffic safety is public safety. No matter how you travel, everyone deserves to feel safe on Spokane’s streets,” said Police Chief Kevin Hall.

The city also plans to install two new automatic traffic safety cameras at East Mission Avenue and North Green Greet. These cameras will be put in place this summer.

“Everyone deserves safe streets, whether walking, biking, or driving,” said Councilmember Zack Zappone. “These initiatives will make Spokane more accessible and safer for everyone who uses our streets.”

Mayor Brown said she will soon put together a team to analyze all the factors involved in fatal crashes within the city. This team would include police, fire, streets, engineering, planning and human services staff who will review fatal crash cases and use that data to make recommendations to prevent crashes from happening in the future.