Transportation Commission approves Complete Streets exception for Rowan at Maple & Ash

At a hearing Jan. 21, the Spokane Transportation Commission approved a Complete Streets exception for the Rowan intersection at Maple & Ash by roll‑call vote.

Staff described the project as a targeted improvement to make a historically hazardous crossing safer by adding a signal, ADA ramps and curb extensions (bump outs) that narrow crossing distances at Rowan. John (city staff) said the proposed curb extensions would reduce pedestrian exposure and include bike detection on Rowan so bicyclists can trigger the signal.

"People have been asking for a light for this for years," John said, arguing the change will materially improve safety for students and other pedestrians at nearby trip generators including Ridgeview Elementary and Northwest Christian School.

Staff acknowledged a tradeoff: the curb extensions create a pinch point that would block a continuous painted bike lane through that specific location. Colin Quinhirst (project staff) said the team evaluated options (ramps, Dutch intersections) but concluded the available right‑of‑way limited solutions that would preserve both the curb extension benefit and a through bike facility without taking private property.

Commission discussion focused on whether the exception applied only to the specific intersection (it does) and on accelerating parallel bicycle routes (Belt/Elm/Cedar) to preserve network continuity. Commissioners asked about constructability and timing; staff said construction should start this summer, though signal work may lag and arrive months later.

A motion to accept the exception to the Bicycle Master Plan was moved and seconded; the Commission voted yes in a roll call (President Shipley, Vice President Young, Commissioners Bridal, Callery, Harris, Jackman, Juliet and Pangborne all voted yes). Staff will proceed to advertisement for bid to keep the project on this year’s schedule.

This decision is an intersection‑specific exception and does not change other sections of the Bicycle Master Plan; staff said they will continue work on the parallel routes to compensate for the local bike‑lane discontinuity.