California on Track for a Game-Changing New Bike Highways Program

Cyclists in California may soon be riding into a safer, faster future. A new bill introduced by Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura), AB 954, proposes a Bike Highway Pilot Program that could redefine how Californians travel by bike.

Designed for long-distance rides of more than three miles, these bike highways would offer complete separation from motor vehicle traffic—creating protected, direct routes that connect people to major destinations, transit hubs, and employment centers. For regular commuters, e-bike users, and casual riders alike, it’s a bold vision of a bike-centric future.

“I’d like to see California elevate our offerings to our residents,” said Bennett. “We must strengthen and diversify the connections neighborhood to neighborhood and from city to city. Bike highways provide the highest sense of safety and will attract more people to take advantage of their bikes. If you build it, they will come.”

Pedaling Toward a Greener State

The timing couldn’t be better. With gas prices remaining high and climate concerns top of mind, the state is encouraging greener transportation options. Bike highways are part of that push. California has also backed this commitment with the California E-Bike Incentive Program, launched in late 2024 to help more residents afford electric bikes.

Between 2020 and 2023, the U.S. imported an estimated 2.4 million e-bikes, and longer commutes by bike are becoming a reality for many. Meanwhile, California continues to rank among the nation’s most bike-friendly states, coming in 4th in the League of American Bicyclists’ 2024 ratings.

“The Bicycle Highways Bill will create a safe, separated bikeway network, similar to California’s highway system,” said CalBike Policy Director Jared Sanchez. “This is an essential step to make getting around by bike a viable option for more Californians. We know better infrastructure leads to more biking and we know that more biking is crucial to combat climate change, so CalBike is excited to sponsor this bill.”

Cycling on Santa Monica Boulevard in California

Statewide Support from the Saddle

Cycling organizations and advocates across California have already expressed strong support for the bill.

“Channel Islands Bicycle Club, representing over 300 members, supports the Bicycle Highway Bill. Bike Highways will reduce traffic congestion, improve fitness and health, and provide travel options for those who don’t feel safe cycling on roads. Studies have shown that many people, particularly families, women, and seniors, would choose to bike if safe options are convenient and available,” said Kate Faulkner, Government Liaison for Channel Islands Bike Club.

“The Bicycle Highway Pilot Program under AB 954 is a vital investment in both infrastructure and people. For BikeVentura.org, it’s an opportunity to expand our mission of delivering critical bicycle safety education to underserved communities, ensuring they can thrive in a transportation system designed with equity and safety at its core. BikeVentura stands proudly with Assemblymember Bennett on this transformative initiative,” said Lawrence Abele, Board Member of Bike Ventura.

Building on a Legacy of Active Transportation

Assemblymember Bennett has been a champion for active transportation, both in the State Legislature and during his time on the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. He currently serves as chair of the Budget Subcommittee No. 4 on Transportation, Climate Change, Natural Resources, and Energy—a fitting role for someone shaping the future of bike infrastructure.

The proposal also builds on work already in motion. A 2022 Caltrans Bay Area Bike Highway Study identified promising corridors and best practices for implementing bike highways, particularly in high-density regions.

If passed, AB 954 could pave the way—literally—for a new kind of California highway. But instead of cars, it would be powered by people.