Spokane city leaders, together with Spokane County, are pursuing a federal grant to improve emergency evacuation routes for residents of the Indian Trail and Five Mile neighborhoods. The request targets a U.S. Department of Transportation PROTECT grant that would fund a comprehensive risk assessment and the development of safer transportation corridors.
Why the grant matters
The two neighborhoods were hard‑hit by the 2026 Spokane Complex Fire, exposing the vulnerability of their limited road network. Officials note that the Spokane River, steep hills, a large landfill and dispersed development force evacuation traffic onto a handful of main streets. In an emergency, those bottlenecks could delay rescue efforts and endanger families.
What the funding would cover
If awarded, the $1.4 million grant would finance several key steps:
- Conducting a detailed risk assessment of current evacuation routes.
- Identifying alternative pathways and potential new road connections.
- Creating a clear communication plan to inform residents of evacuation procedures.
- Beginning design work on priority projects that could be implemented quickly.
The grant also allows the study to extend beyond Indian Trail and Five Mile, examining other parts of Spokane that face similar transportation challenges.
Mayor Brown’s perspective
Mayor Lisa Brown emphasized the importance of proactive planning. “It is essential that we work with our County partners to improve transportation in and out of neighborhoods we’ve identified as challenge points during emergencies. Federal funding opportunities like the PROTECT grant can help us achieve those necessary measures,” she said.
Next steps and timeline
The joint city‑county application is now under review by the Department of Transportation. Officials expect a decision by the end of the year. Should the grant be approved, the planning phase could begin early next year, with design work following the risk assessment.
Community impact
Residents of Indian Trail and Five Mile have expressed relief that local leaders are addressing evacuation concerns. Improved routes would not only enhance safety during fires but also benefit daily commutes, emergency medical response, and overall neighborhood connectivity.
Spokane’s pursuit of the PROTECT grant reflects a broader commitment to resilient infrastructure, ensuring that families can rely on safe, reliable evacuation options when disaster strikes.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
