Jersey City advocates push for safer bike lanes

During a recent city council meeting, Ayla Shermer, president of Bike JC, expressed strong support for the newly installed pop-up protected bike lanes on Manhattan Avenue and Franklin Street in Jersey City's Heights neighborhood. This initiative marks the first introduction of protected bike lanes in the area, which has been identified as a critical gap in the city's bike lane network.

Shermer highlighted the importance of these lanes, noting that they provide a safe east-west connection for residents to access schools, parks, and grocery stores. She pointed out that the corridor has seen ten crashes resulting in injuries over the past five years, with a significant number involving pedestrians and cyclists. The redesign aims to enhance safety by offering dedicated space for cyclists and calming traffic speeds.

Despite initial skepticism from some residents, Shermer reported that traffic has actually decreased along the project corridor, leading to a more enjoyable environment for local residents. She also addressed common myths surrounding the project, clarifying that emergency vehicles can navigate the area without issue and that the bike lanes are actively used, contrary to perceptions of emptiness.

Shermer concluded her remarks by advocating for the permanent installation of the bike lanes and the development of a protected north-south bike lane to further enhance the city's cycling infrastructure. She emphasized the project's significance for the community, particularly for those who may not have the opportunity to voice their support in public forums.