Increased Patrols on I-90 During Hoopfest Weekend

Olympia, WA — As thousands of basketball fans and families prepare to travel to Spokane for Hoopfest weekend, drivers are reminded to stay safe behind the wheel. Increased patrols will be active along I-90 from June 27–29, to ensure everyone gets to and from the nation’s largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament safely.

“Hoopfest is a time for families, friends, and competition, but safety must remain our top priority,” said WSP Chief John Batiste.  “Our officers will be out in full force this weekend to ensure that everyone gets to and from the event safely. So please, drive sober and stay alert.”

In partnership with the Washington State Patrol, local law enforcement agencies from King to Spokane counties will conduct focused patrols targeting impaired drivers and excessive speed—two of the leading causes of serious injury and fatal crashes on Washington roads. The summer months are particularly deadly on Washington roads, with an average of 195 fatal crashes occurring during June, July, and August over the past 5 years. More than half of those crashes involved an impaired driver.

“As we head into one of the busiest weekends of the summer with Hoopfest, our priority is keeping drivers and families safe on the road,” said Jana Rackham, Target Zero Manager in Adams, Ferry, Grant and Lincoln counties. “Extra patrols along the I-90 corridor will be focused on identifying and stopping impaired, distracted, and aggressive drivers. We urge everyone to plan, buckle up, and drive responsibly—your choices behind the wheel can save lives.”

In 2024, there were 33 impaired drivers taken off the roads in the Spokane area alone during Hoopfest weekend.

“We want everyone to enjoy the event and get home safely,” said Shelly Baldwin, Director of the WTSC. “That means planning ahead, obeying the speed limit, and never driving under the influence.”

For more information on safe driving initiatives, visit https://www.togetherwegetthere.com.