Emergency Streets Pilot Program

At a glance

What: City pilot that, after a fatal crash, quickly narrows the road and marks it with signs and stencils to acknowledge the loss and slow traffic.
Where it stands: First deployment completed on Ash Street after a September 20 crash; before, during and after speed data still being gathered.
Next: Staff will report speed data two months before and after the treatment and keep evaluating the survey.

Lane reduction from two lanes to one for about a third of a mile, set up within the 48 to 72 hour goal and kept for two weeks.
Survey drew 569 responses; 62 percent agreed streets should prioritize reducing injury risk even if traffic slows.
Telematics speed data showed operating speeds about 5 mph lower during the treatment; no other crashes reported nearby.
Funded in part by the Spokane Regional Health District and the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.
Related: Vision Zero Action Plan Update.

Staff presented the first deployment, outreach results, survey results and early speed data; members asked how speed data is collected.