Keeping Construction Sites Clear for Bike Lanes

A proposed law in New York City wants to make sure construction doesn't impede the safe flow of bicycle traffic—the benefit could include better gender representation.

1 minute read

October 4, 2018, 5:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Manhattan Bike Lane

Sergey Rybin / Shutterstock

New York City Councilmember Carlina Rivera has proposed legislation to end the practice of allowing construction sites to spill over into bike lanes, reports Vincent Barone.

The ordinance would "establish penalties when contractors don't preserve established bike lanes, or create temporary new lanes, around construction sites."

According to Barone, Councilmember Rivera considers the issue one step toward creating the kind of safe conditions that will inspire more women to get on bikes. "Women tend to more often prioritize safety and convenience in determining whether to bike, according to a 2015 report from the NYU Rudin Center [pdf], which found that women are more likely to ride in areas that are connected to parking-protected bike lanes or greenways that are separated from traffic," explains Barone.

Monday, October 1, 2018 in AM New York

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Front of White House with stormy sky above.

How the Trump Presidency Could Impact Urban Planning

An analysis of potential changes in federal housing, transportation, and climate policies.

January 19, 2025 - Planetizen

Cyclist on bike in green painted bike lane at intersection with three-story buildings in background.

NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide

The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.

January 8, 2025 - National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO)

Close-up of person on bike wearing backpack riding on city street.

Research Affirms Safety of ‘Idaho Stop’

Allowing cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs does not negatively impact safety and can help people on bikes more effectively navigate roadways.

January 14, 2025 - Streetsblog California

Destroyed Altadena Community Church facade after Eaton Fire in Altadena, California.

UCLA Experts Offer Critical Support for LA Wildfire Response and Recovery

The UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation offers expert guidance on LA wildfire response and recovery, addressing critical issues like water safety, air quality, equitable rebuilding, and climate adaptation to promote resilience and sustainability.

January 20 - UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation

Aerial view of downtown Salt Lake City, Utah with snow-capped mountains in background.

Salt Lake City to Get Five New Bus Lines

The service improvements come after a year of strong ridership growth.

January 20 - The Salt Lake Tribune

Close-up of person wearing Nike tennis shoe on Trinity Metro bike share e-bike.

Fort Worth Relaunches Bike Share Network

The system, operated by Lyft, is made up of primarily e-bikes.

January 20 - NBC DFW