Adaptive street design improves local infrastructure by developing pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety improvements quickly and at low cost. Temporary in nature, these designs can be easily changed in response to different outcomes. The goal is to install these changes incrementally and quickly, allowing rapid response to real-time concerns and safety issues while remaining adaptable to changing conditions.
The City recently launched its first adaptive street design project on Howard Street and will use feedback and data from this pilot project to inform the development of future adaptive street design standards and projects throughout the City of Spokane.
In 2024, Spokane adopted the goal installing a new 27-mile network of safe, comfortable and connected bikeways by 2027. This “27 by 2027” Urban Mobility Network focuses on linking quiet neighborhood streets to safe shared-use pathways by installing crossing improvements at arterial streets. The network also includes the installation of wayfinding signage and pavement markings to create a complete, legible network of bikeways. This network will be installed segment-by-segment incrementally over the next three years.
In 2025, the first segment of the network will be installed on Elm Street and Belt Street from the Centennial Trail north to Longfellow Avenue. Additional segments will be installed in 2026 and 2027 to complete the 27-mile network.
To see the full planned network, view the PDF map:
In this pilot project, the City rapidly created a public plaza with tables and chairs along Howard Street between Mallon Ave. and Joe Albi Way. The plaza sits at the north entrance of Riverfront Park by the Papillion Building and its restaurants, and across the street from the Spokane Arena Events Center, making it an ideal location for people walking through the area or visiting one of the nearby restaurants.
The plaza was made by temporarily converting the parking lane into a public seating area. The seating area is separated from car traffic by a protected bike lane that was installed at the same time. The protected bike lane enhanced the safety of the original bike lane and serves as a connection between Riverfront Park and the North Bank of Spokane.
Additional seating and features will be added incrementally to test different options and to address any feedback we receive.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact wheelshare@spokanecity.org.
