Gabby Ryan, Community Programs Coordinator, Office of Neighborhood Services, No Phone Number Available
Friday, April 17, 2026 at 2:53 p.m.
For Spokane Gives 2026, we are highlighting the service of community members who serve on our City’s Boards and Commissions. Today, we highlight the Youth Member serving on the Bicycle Advisory Board. In 1992, the Bicycle Advisory Board was authorized to provide advice and direction to the City Council and all departments and officers of the city on matters relating to bicycling and to raise public awareness of bicycling issues.
Board Member: Santiago Cruz
Bicycle Advisory Board Role: Youth Member (ages 16-22)
Tell us about your role on the Bicycle Advisory Board (BAB) and why you’re passionate about participating on it.
I am the youth member on the BAB serving my first term; I treat my role as the "Next Generation,” thinking about how different routes affect how kids get to school via bike paths. I love being on the Board because we have a voice, and the City Council takes that into consideration when making decisions.
What’s something the Bicycle Advisory Board is working on that you’re proud of?
I am very happy to see that bike paths are getting more protection, such as protected separation from car lanes. When my school had a Bike class, a few of the students were scared to bike in the streets because there was only a paint line separating the students from the car. A lot of them said, “I wouldn’t feel safe riding by myself.”
Why is it important that folks get involved on boards/commissions in the community?
It is very important that more of the younger generations get involved with City Council meetings along with Boards and Commissions, because decisions being made impact you right now and will most definitely impact you in the future.
In Spokane
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