As a regular bus commuter and a member of this community, I see firsthand how the lack of shade and shelter at Spokane’s bus stops makes public transit harder for those who rely on it the most—low-income individuals, the elderly, disabled riders, students.

1486 out of 1680 bus stops in Spokane do not have shelter and lack adequate shading exposing transit users to dangerous heat conditions.

In the Summer Heat Dome in 2021, 19 deaths were reported due to heat related complications in Spokane.

Studies show that urban green spaces can reduce heat buildup by up to 9°F, improve air quality, and support both physical and mental well-being. In the meantime, while Spokane Transit Authority(STA) works toward adding permanent covered shelters with Proposition 1, we need a simple, cost-effective, and sustainable solution: planting more trees at bus stops.

We urge the Spokane City Council and STA to work with local environmental programs, such as SpoCanopy, the Spokane Edible Tree Project, and the Gonzaga Institute for Climate, Water, and the Environment, and students apart of the Sustainability program at EWU to integrate tree canopies into East Central District and eventually the greater Spokane area. Every rider deserves a safe, shaded, and dignified transit experience—let’s make it happen!

Sign this petition to demand that Spokane prioritize tree planting at bus stops! #GreenTopsCoolStops