Columbus Initiates Construction of Longest Protected Bike Lane to Enhance Safety
Columbus has commenced construction on a 2.2-mile protected bike lane along North 4th Street, stretching from Italian Village through the University District. This project is part of the Vision Zero Columbus initiative, which aims to eliminate crash-related fatalities and injuries by improving transportation infrastructure. The new bike lane will be physically separated from motor vehicle traffic and pedestrians, providing a safer route for cyclists. The design involves moving the bikeway against the curb, protected by street parking, while the current on-street parking will be relocated to the former bike lane area. This initiative is aligned with the city's Bike Plus plan, which seeks to expand bikeways and promote alternative modes of transportation such as bicycles, scooters, and skateboards. The project also includes safety improvements at the intersection of North 4th Street and East 5th Avenue.