Here are America’s Best New Bike Lanes of 2023

Every six months of so, Momentum publishes a crowd-sourced list of the worst bike lanes on the planet. It’s fun, and hopefully the naming and shaming plays a role in bringing about change. But it’s also important to give a proverbial pat the back when good things happen. And that’s what bicycle advocacy organization People For Bikes did recently with the publication of a list of the best bike lanes in America.

The surge in bike lane projects witnessed last year is just the beginning, with thousands more in the pipeline and an unprecedented influx of federal funds promising an even brighter future for cyclists.

“Although there remains a substantial amount of work ahead of us to cultivate a safe and comfortable environment for people of all ages and abilities to ride bikes in the U.S.,” said Martina Haggerty, People For Bikes’ senior director of local innovation. “It’s well worth pausing to commemorate the significant infrastructure victories U.S. cities achieved in 2023.”

Though there’s a considerable journey ahead to create a safe and accessible biking environment for all, People For Bikes thinks it is essential to pause and acknowledge the significant infrastructure milestones achieved by U.S. cities in 2023 in naming the best bike lanes in all the land.

“It’s well worth pausing to commemorate the significant infrastructure victories U.S. cities achieved in 2023,” said Haggerty.

1. Broadway, New York City, New York

Kicking off our list is the iconic Broadway in New York City (pictured above), where the vision of a ‘people-centric’ environment is taking shape. Pedestrian plazas, outdoor dining spaces, and especially improved bike infrastructure between West 25th and 32nd streets are transforming this iconic street. The anticipation grows as plans unfold to reshape the stretch between West 33rd and 21st Street in the next phase.

“We’re delighted to witness locales like New York City continuing to adopt more of these low-stress environments for cyclists,” writes Haggerty.

2. 156th Street Cycle Track, Redmond, Washington

Redmond’s 156th Street Cycle Track, featuring a two-way cycle track, is improving access to the Redmond Technology Station and the NE 40th Street Shared Use Path. As the tech hub’s commitment to community development continues, this Microsoft-funded project stands as a testament to blending technology and sustainability.

Redmond, Washington

3. 300 West, Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City marked a milestone in September with the completion of the 300 West Reconstruction Project. A separated, two-way, 10-foot-wide bike lane, upgraded sidewalks, and eco-friendly elements showcase the city’s dedication to sustainable and accessible transportation.

4. Inman Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts

After two and a half years of construction, Inman Square in Cambridge is reborn with sidewalk-level bike lanes, protected intersections, and a vibrant new plaza. Cambridge’s commitment to Vision Zero and cycling safety shines through in this transformative project.

“The project made headlines earlier this year after a social media video seemingly showcasing bike infrastructure in the Netherlands went viral, only to be revealed as a playful deception filmed in Cambridge’s Inman Square,” writes Haggerty.

My friend just sent me this video from the Netherlands. It’s so frustrating we can do stuff like this in the US. pic.twitter.com/8OClat3aLD

— Aaron Greiner (@aarongreiner.bsky.social) (@aaronbgreiner) August 26, 2023

5. Bryant Avenue South, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis reshaped its residential street, Bryant Avenue South, with a bidirectional sidewalk-level protected bikeway and, according to Haggerty, “reflects a forward-looking commitment to safer and more sustainable transportation that’s helped Minneapolis become the best large U.S. city this year’s City Ratings.”

6. Union Street, Pasadena, California

Pasadena celebrated the completion of its first two-way protected bike lane along Union Street in September. Repurposing existing road space, this cyclist-friendly corridor connects key destinations and aligns with Pasadena’s commitment to sustainable transportation.

7. Baseline Road, Boulder, Colorado

Inspired by successful implementations in cities like Toronto, Boulder introduced new “tall curbs” along Baseline Road in 2023 to physically separate bike and vehicle lanes. Combining safety with public art, the project enhances Boulder’s Core Arterial Network and promises further enhancements in 2024.

Bike network in Boulder, Co

8. Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verda, Florida

The Pinellas Bayway South Cycle Track in Tierra Verde is a significant addition to the extensive Pinellas Trail network. Separated from traffic, this cycle track rectifies safety issues, connecting trail users to Fort De Soto County Park and exemplifying Florida’s commitment to regional cycling.

9. East Main Street, Rochester, New York

Rochester’s East Main Street Reconstruction project not only addresses infrastructure needs but also incorporates elements like decorative lighting, street trees, and new signage. Part of the city’s “spine network,” this project underscores Rochester’s dedication to a well-connected and accessible bike network.

10. Avenue B, San Antonio, Texas

Through a $6 million Midtown Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone project, San Antonio transformed Avenue B into a cyclist-friendly corridor, contributing to the city’s expanding network of bike lanes and trails. Plans to extend the bike lane further north reflect the city’s commitment to enhancing connectivity.

11. Salem Avenue, Dayton, Ohio

12. 12th Avenue South, Nashville, Tennessee

13. Turner Avenue, Grand Rapids, Michigan

14. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta, Georgia

15. Main Street, Agawam, Massachusetts

16. 17th Street, Santa Monica, California

17. Meadowbrook Road, Jackson, Mississippi

18. Belmont Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

19. West Marginal Way SW, Seattle, Washington

20. North Manhattan Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas

As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, it’s clear that American cities are pedaling towards a future where biking takes center stage. With ambitious plans, innovative projects, and growing support, the wheels of change are in motion, propelling us towards a more sustainable, healthier, and interconnected urban landscape.

Read the full report here.

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