Quick-builds improve local infrastructure by developing pedestrian, bicycle, and traffic safety improvements quickly and at low cost. Ranging from temporary to semi-permanent, these designs can be easily changed in response to different outcomes. The goal is to implement these changes incrementally and quickly, allowing rapid response to real-time concerns and safety issues while remaining adaptable to changing conditions.
In the late summer of 2024, the City launched its first quick-build project on Howard Street and used feedback from this pilot project to inform the development of future quick-build projects throughout the City of Spokane.
Current projects are updated as necessary to provide relevant information.
In 2024, Spokane adopted the goal of 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, pavement markings, and mix of traffic control devices such as diverters, traffic circles, curb extensions, and speed cushions to create a complete, legible network of bikeways. This network will be installed segment-by-segment through 2027.
In 2025, the first segment of the network was 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 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 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.
Installed in late 2024, Broadway Ave and Chestnut St includes channelizers that act as a pedestrian refuge island and curb extensions, or bump outs, to decrease the crossing distance for people accessing Dutch Jakes Park.
Traffic refuge islands are protected spaces within the roadway that allow pedestrians and/or bicyclists to cross one direction of traffic at a time. They improve safety and comfort by reducing crossing distances and increasing driver awareness of crossing activity.
Curb extensions, also known as bump-outs, extend the pedestrian area into the parking lane or roadway, at intersections and crossings. By narrowing the roadway and shortening crossing distances, curb extensions improve pedestrian visibility, reduce the time pedestrians spend in the street, and encourage slower vehicle speeds.
Art Crosswalks use high-visibility pavement markings, colored surface treatments, or other painted features to make pedestrian crossing locations more noticeable to both drivers and pedestrians. These treatments improve crossing visibility, reinforce pedestrian priority, and can help increase driver yielding behavior.
Traffic Circles, are compact circular intersection treatments installed at unsignalized intersections to slow vehicle speeds, improve safety, and maintain traffic flow. Quick-build traffic Circles can be created using pavement markings, flexible delineators, temporary curb elements, or small modular elements. They also provide opportunities for landscaping, public art, and beautification.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact wheelshare@spokanecity.org.
Additional seating and features will be added incrementally to test different options and to address any feedback we receive.
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