Construction has started on upgrades to the 11th Street bike lanes. The project will fill longstanding gaps in the bike network in this heavily used corridor, particularly in the U Street neighborhood. Residents have made clear with their voices and their biking patterns the importance of 11th street to their commutes. And for over 15 years, there have been plans to close this glaring bike transit gap. After previous efforts were shut down, I worked with DDOT and the ANC to get it done and move the project forward.
A heads up: there may be more jackhammering than you’d expect for a bike lane project. That’s actually good news! DDOT is taking this as an opportunity to pull out the old streetcar rails that were simply paved over when the line was decommissioned in 1961. Commuters rejoice: no more crazy potholes!
This phase of the project stops at Florida Ave, but the design of the next phase is already underway and will run all the way through Columbia Heights and connect with the crosstown cycle track. More good news: the design already includes space for streateries.
On a final note, I have asked DDOT to ensure that the uphill lane is wide enough for passing. This is an important consideration as e-bikes continue to grow in popularity.
This project will benefit many Ward 1 residents and people across the District, and I look forward to its completion.