Austin Outlaws Blocking Bike Lanes

The Austin city council voted unanimously to outlaw parking in bike lanes, reports Luz Moreno-Lozano for KUT. Fines for violators will range from $50 to $300.

“Council Member Paige Ellis said several people in the community had expressed concerns about bicycle safety on busy downtown roads. If a car is in a protected lane, the cyclist is forced onto sidewalks or traffic, putting the cyclist, drivers and others at risk.” Ellis called out delivery drivers and ride-hailing services as common violators.

According to assistant director of transportation and public works Lewis Jeff, “It really is a modernization of the code to reflect the operations today and what we anticipate moving forward.” Council Member Chito Vela noted that the city should do even more to protect people on bikes, such as physically separating bike lanes from traffic. “Long term, I think that's the solution. I don't think we can enforce our way out of this,” Vela added.

The city says it will add signs, painted markings, and barriers to support enforcement and educate the public about the new law.