The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has been working citywide to install protected bike lanes as part of a broader safety initiative. This includes the existing bike lanes on 18th St. in the 3rd Ward. This strategy is meant to create a more connected network of safe and comfortable lanes to improve safety for cyclists, and make the street safer for all people while traveling along streets.
CDOT targeted 18th Street for protected bike lanes to provide a critical lakefront connection for the Prairie District and neighborhoods to the west. The design of protected bike lanes accommodates the most vulnerable people who bike, such as families, and elderly riders who may travel at slower speeds or may otherwise feel unsafe or too intimidated to mix with traffic on traditional bike lanes. In addition, the design of protected bike lanes encourages vehicle speeds closer to the speed limit which reduces the likelihood of, and severity of, crashes for all people who walk, roll, bike, or drive through this area.
While this corridor has had bike lanes for more than 15 years, CDOT did not anticipate the level of disruption the installation of protected bike lanes would cause. Alderman Dowell’s office has heard the concerns raised by community members, and the office has been actively engaging with CDOT to reassess the design and placement of the protected bike lane to ensure the safety and accessibility of all people who use 18th St. CDOT and 3rd Ward staff are actively monitoring the project through construction and during the pause to assess safety and mobility concerns related to the street reconfiguration
At this time, the project has been paused while the 3rd Ward Office continues conversations with CDOT regarding the permanent installation. In the interim, crews will be marking the pavement and installing signage as required for safety, and complying with existing contracts.
We deeply appreciate your patience and advocacy. Our goal remains to support a safe, accessible neighborhood for all residents. The 3rd Ward Public Service Office will provide an update on the project as soon as additional information is available.