Frequently Asked Questions
STA, Don’t Take My Car FAQ
What is road dieting?
Road dieting is the process of removing travel lanes from a roadway and utilizing the space for other uses.
What problems can road diets cause?
Road diets can cause problems such as congestion, increased emissions, illegal passing, dangerous driving and road rage
Why is it important that bus pullouts aren’t removed?
If bus pullouts are removed, buses will stop in the roadway causing traffic congestion and illegal passing.
Which groups are in favor of the proposed Division Street road diet?
The Spokane City Council and the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) are in favor of the Division Street Road diet.
What percentage of vehicle traffic lanes will be eliminated by the Division Street road diet?
The road diet will eliminate 33-50% of vehicle traffic lanes.
What is the proposed cost of the Division Street road diet?
Nearly $200 million
Why is the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) in favor of road dieting?
The STA is in favor of road dieting because it will increase bus ridership.
Who pays the $26 to subsidize each bus riders fare?
Spokane County residents.
When and where can I vote to stop this proposed road diet?
You can’t vote to stop the road diet but you can contact the STA Board or your city council representative and voice your concerns today!
What is the timeline for this road diet?
Construction may begin between 2023 and 2026.
Are there alternatives for the Division Street road diet?
There are no alternatives being discussed by the STA Board at this time. Your feedback is needed.
Why is this road diet so important for the Spokane Transit Authority?
Increased ridership will be a direct result of the Division Street road diet.
How would this road diet affect local businesses?
Dedicated bus lanes would decrease the convenience of access to each business.
How much would Spokane taxpayer contributions be affected by this road diet?
Currently the taxpayer subsidizes $26 for each bus ride. Currently, there is no information on future tax increases or decreases to taxpayers. Contact your city council representative to ask about expected tax increases to fund the Division Street road diet.
How will traffic accumulation be addressed?
There is no plan in place to address traffic accumulation. Advocates of the Division Street road diet say that the North-South Corridor (NSC), when complete, would address traffic issues. However, with over 50,000 vehicles traveling on Division per day and the NSC over 2 miles east of Division, the likelihood of traffic diverting to the NSC is not realistic.
Is this road diet necessary and needed?
The road diet is not necessary or needed and will only increase congestion and car emissions, create longer commutes, and lead to dangerous driving.
How is having four city council members on the STA board not a conflict of interest?
Having city council members on the STA board helps protect city interests. However, the city council members need to stand up for their constitutes. It is important that they receive feedback from you to represent your best interests. Contact your city council representative and make your opinions heard.