~ The City of Spokane and Spokane County have jointly applied for a federal grant to improve transportation access in the Indian Trail and Five Mile neighborhoods, following the 2026 Spokane Complex Fire.

The U.S. Department of Transportation's PROTECT grant program funds efforts to make surface transportation more resilient to weather events, natural disasters and changing conditions, according to the agencies.

The city and county said the neighborhoods have limited transportation connections and rely on a few arterial streets. The Spokane River, steep terrain, a large landfill and scattered development contribute to the challenges, particularly during large-scale evacuations.

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If awarded the full $1.4 million, the grant would fund a vulnerability assessment, identification of emergency transportation routes, an evacuation communications plan and initial design work for selected projects. It would also allow the agencies to study areas beyond Indian Trail and Five Mile.

The award is expected to be announced by the end of the year, the agencies said.

"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," Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown said. She added that federal funding could help the city and county carry out needed improvements.

Spokane County Commissioner Mary Brooks said the fire demonstrated the importance of clear, timely information for people evacuating. The grant would allow the agencies to analyze challenges and develop solutions, she said.

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