Erin Hut, Communications Director, ehut@spokanecity.org
Monday, September 21, 2026 at 2:38 p.m.
The City of Spokane is implementing its first Emergency Streets installation following a fatal crash that occurred Sunday night near the intersection of N. Ash St. and W. Courtland Ave.
Emergency Streets is a pilot program; an initiative that provides a rapid-response approach to traffic safety by installing temporary traffic-calming measures within 72 hours after a fatal crash. The installation will close one lane of traffic on southbound Ash St. from Kiernan to Euclid for 14 days starting in the afternoon of Tuesday, September 21.
The installation will include highly visible traffic cones, pink Emergency Streets signs, and a speed feedback sign. While the temporary treatment is in place staff will monitor traffic conditions, collect speed data, and gather community feedback. The public can participate in a survey regarding Emergency Streets here.
The crash that occurred on Sunday night at Ash and Courtland was a single vehicle motorcycle crash. The motorcyclist died. Since the beginning 2023 the City has experienced 18 motorcycle traffic fatalities, all of which involved male motorcyclists. Speed is a common factor in these crashes.
Speed is one of the most significant factors influencing the severity of traffic crashes. Research consistently shows that even modest reductions in vehicle speeds can substantially reduce the likelihood of death or serious injury. Emergency Streets combines engineering, education, and community engagement to support a culture of shared responsibility for roadway safety.
Led by the City's Division of Transportation & Sustainability in collaboration with multiple City departments and community partners, the pilot reflects Spokane's commitment to reducing traffic fatalities through a proactive, data-informed approach consistent with the City's Vision Zero goals and Complete Streets policies.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about the program, follow deployment updates, and provide feedback by visiting https://my.spokanecity.org/streets/emergency-streets/.
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