Pullman wants traffic light for busy downtown intersection

The Pullman City Council approved a plan to apply for a $1. 6 million grant from Washington’s Transportation Improvement Board to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Center Street and Grand Avenue. This intersection, currently marked only by a stop sign, experiences significant congestion during peak hours, prompting concerns over pedestrian safety. Grants Manager Valerie Weaver emphasized the need for pedestrian crosswalk signals, as the area has seen incidents where pedestrians were struck by vehicles. Councilor Ann Parks labeled the intersection “dangerous,” voicing worries that a traffic signal could block access to the nearby Pullman Fire Department.

To address this, Weaver stated that flashing lights would be installed to inform drivers of departing emergency vehicles. The total estimated cost of the project is $1. 8 million, with design work expected to begin in 2026 if the grant is approved. The city also accepted a $25,000 donation for a planned Veterans Memorial Park, highlighting ongoing community support for local initiatives. Military veterans attended the meeting to recognize Pullman’s first responders, underscoring the city’s commitment to honoring service members.