Santa Monica wants to be bike capital of the world unveils new “Dutch” project

In a groundbreaking celebration, Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis declared, “Watch out, Amsterdam! We are going to be the bike capital of the world,” as the city unveiled its recently completed 17th Street curb-protected bike lanes, according to a news report. This project, boasting a region-leading design marks a significant achievement with Southern California’s first protected “Dutch-style” intersections.

The Safe Streets for 17th Street and Michigan Avenue project includes full Dutch-style curb-protected intersections at both Broadway and Arizona Avenue. These intersections, considered best safety practices, incorporate small concrete islands to compel drivers to slow down when turning across the bikeway, enhancing safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists alike.

The project spans just over a mile of protected bikeway between Wilshire Boulevard and Pico Boulevard. The configuration varies, with sidewalk-level bike lanes south of Michigan Avenue and concrete curbs added north of Michigan, relocating existing unprotected bike lanes behind curbs and parked cars.

The new protected bike lane protect was not free of criticism when it was proposed and then approved this past summer.

What sets the 17th Street bikeway apart is not only its gold-standard intersections and protection but also the strategic connections it establishes. Unlike some Southern California cities that install bike facilities in remote locations, Santa Monica strategically placed upgrades where they are most beneficial. The 17th Street lanes connect to the 17th Street Metro E Line Station, Santa Monica College, and strengthen the city’s bike network by linking to the E Line bike path, bike lanes on Arizona Avenue and Broadway, and the Michigan Avenue Greenway (MANGo).

As part of the project, safety upgrades along MANGo/Michigan Avenue include two new traffic circles, curb extensions, and curb ramps. Concurrently, Santa Monica is extending MANGo eastward in another strategic initiative.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony at the 17th Street Metro Station drew hundreds of attendees, including cyclists, residents, and city officials.

“I want to thank our community for their patience during construction of these critical upgrades. Projects such as this make our streets safer and more inviting for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists and motorists alike, while fighting climate change by encouraging more people to bike, walk, and connect to transit,” said Santa Monica Department of Transportation Director Anuj GuptaGupta. “I look forward to continuing to advance the City Council’s ambitious agenda and working closely with community members to improve safety and the overall experience of getting around our vibrant city.”

Looking to help your city go Dutch? Check out this article.