Chicago’s Bikeways network continues to bulk up!

New buffered bike lanes are popping up all over town, and we love how useful they are. Buffered bike lanes offer more space and visibility. Keeping you further from moving traffic and the door zone makes for a safer and more comfortable ride. They help strengthen Chicago’s network of bikeways, so we’re excited to welcome them to our streets.

Check out our updated Bikeways Tracker map too!

Latest updates:

New buffered bike lane on Halsted
As of last week, North Siders can cruise through Lakeview with a new buffered bike lane on Halsted Avenue between Diversey Parkway and Wellington Avenue. This is a short neighborhood stretch for now, but it connects to the Halsted bike lane going north and south, and anything to enhance this congested strip is an improvement in our book.

Wabash buffered bike lane grows!
Wabash Avenue is getting some major bike love. Last year a buffered bike lane went in between 18th Street and Roosevelt Road. This week construction crews are working to extend the lane north to Harrison Street (photo right), while also putting this stretch of street on a road diet. Later this summer it will extend south to Cermak Road. We’re thrilled to see a much more comfortable ride take shape in and out of downtown!

Protected bike lanes update
Like you, we hunger for more protected bike lanes. Here’s where things stand. Currently there are seven miles of protected lanes installed or under construction throughout the city. New lanes on Elston Avenue have just been completed, and be on the lookout for bollards and green pavement coming to 55th Street soon. The mayor has pledged to build 100 miles of protected bike lanes by 2015 and we’re going to make sure it happens. Active Trans is meeting with aldermen and city officials to ensure installing protected lanes becomes a priority. There are lots of promising projects in the works – now is the time to help us raise awareness and support!

Please tell your friends to sign our pledge.

When officials hear the number of people who support our plans, they listen.

Help us amplify our voice for bikes – share this with at least two friends and encourage them to sign up.