The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is wrapping up a year-long study of three innovative bicycle facilities, two of which, the 15th Street cycle track and Pennsylvania Avenue center median bike lane, are located in the DowntownDC BID area. Researchers found that bicycle counts increased dramatically along the corridors, while motor vehicle travel times did not change significantly. Bicycle crashes also increased along the corridors, and the researchers recommended continued monitoring of bicycle crashes over time. In addition, the project included a survey of adjacent property owners, residents, motorists, and bicyclists, who were all generally supportive of the facilities. The report also recommends several design and operational improvements to benefit both bicyclists and motorists. Read more in the report’s executive summary. The final report is expected soon.
In related news, DDOT is using the results of the innovative facility study to inform the design of the upcoming cycle track on L Street, scheduled to be installed this summer when the street is resurfaced. The cycle track will occupy the north side of L Street from 22nd to 12th streets. The one-way bicycle lane will be separated from the vehicle lanes by flexible posts and a painted buffer, similar to the 15th Street cycle track. Left turning vehicles will merge into the bike lane as they approach the intersection at “mixing zones.” Existing on-street parking on the north side of L Street will be removed, but the DowntownDC BID coordinated with adjacent properties and DDOT to relocate all curbside loading spaces.
It’s also worth noting that DC was recently selected as one of six cities to participate in Bikes Belong’s Green Lane Project, which aims to provide expertise and support to cities “poised to make significant progress over the next two years in installing cycle tracks and related improvements.” Go DC!