Spokane, Wash. — In a move that bolsters family mobility and promotes healthy, active lifestyles, the city’s transportation department announced a plan to finish a 27‑mile network of continuous bike routes by 2027. The project, outlined by Director of Transportation and Sustainability Jon Snyder, will connect neighborhoods from South Hill to Hillyard and from Shadle Park to Indian Trail, giving cyclists a safe, dedicated path that mirrors the convenience of driving.
Why the New Bike Network Matters
“That’s the idea, continuous,” Snyder explained. “We have some things that people may be seeing right now, and then next year we will be doing even more.” The emphasis on continuity means cyclists will no longer have to navigate fragmented streets lacking bike infrastructure. Instead, they will travel on routes designed to keep traffic and cyclists separate, reducing the risk of accidents and encouraging more families to choose biking for school runs, errands, and recreation.
Safety Features and Traffic Calming
Current efforts already include “sharrows” on Adams Street and green crosswalks that signal drivers to share the road with bikers. Snyder noted that these measures “increase the safety of everybody.” The upcoming network will prioritize less‑busy streets, such as 27th Avenue instead of the busier 29th, further limiting vehicle‑cycle interactions. Where the bike path must intersect major thoroughfares, the city will install pedestrian hybrid beacons with solid red signals and other traffic‑calming devices to slow cars and protect cyclists.
Supporting Parents and Communities
“We want to make sure that people have the opportunity to access the high‑priority destinations that everyone in a car has,” Snyder said, underscoring the project’s goal of giving families the same level of access without the need for a vehicle. By providing safe routes to schools, parks, and shopping districts, the city is reinforcing the traditional family value of protecting children while encouraging stewardship of the environment.
Project Timeline and Funding
The city’s transportation department confirmed that the bike network is on track to be completed by 2027. Funding for the project includes allocations for both new pathway construction and enhancements to existing streets, such as speed‑reduction measures and improved signage. Snyder told NonStop Local that the plan is proceeding as scheduled, reflecting the administration’s commitment to delivering tangible improvements for Spokane residents.
What Residents Can Expect
Once finished, the 27‑mile network will offer a reliable alternative to driving, especially for those who prefer walking or biking to work, school, or leisure activities. The project aligns with broader efforts to promote active transportation, reduce traffic congestion, and foster healthier, more connected neighborhoods across Spokane.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed about construction updates and to take advantage of the new routes as they open. The city will continue to engage with residents to ensure the bike network meets the needs of families, commuters, and recreationists alike.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
