Find Posts By Topic

I Want to Ride My Bicycle – On the New 2nd Ave Protected Bike Lane!

2nd Ave PBL

It’s open!

The shiny new section from Pike Street to Denny Way extends the existing 2nd Avenue Protected Bike Lane (PBL) to Yesler Way (that’s 23 blocks!), making city-wide cycling a snap!

Protected bike lanes and signal upgrades in downtown Seattle improve safety for everyone, while at the same time connecting the Center City Bike Network. Completing the 2nd Avenue PBL between Pike Street and Denny Way complements the city’s ongoing mobility improvements and enhances safety for cyclists and pedestrians – and takes the guess work away for drivers by providing designated travel lanes and clear signals. Visit the project website for features details.

 

In case you’re wondering. Here’s what the PBL cross section looked like before:

PBL cross section (before).

 

And here’s what it looks like today:

PBL cross section (after).

 

Putting on our makeup.

Major construction is done, but you may continue to see crews completing some final cosmetic details. This work will be minimal but might require short, intermittent bike lane closures so please follow posted signs. In spring, we’ll finish up permanent striping at the crosswalks and stop bars, which needs dry warmer weather.

 

Look out for each other.

Whether you’re riding a bike, driving, or walking, here’s how to navigate the new 2nd Ave:

 

One more glamour shot of the new 2nd Ave PBL!

Walking 

  • Follow pedestrian signals.
  • Look both ways when crossing bike lanes.

 

Cycling 

  • Follow bike signals.
  • Yield to people walking in crosswalks.

 

Driving 

  • Follow traffic signals.
  • Park next to bike lane.

 

 

Watch this short clip from our very own Dongho Chang, City Traffic Engineer, who shares about bicycle and transit markings to help you navigate the city.

And remember! Look out for other travelers when making turns across the bike lane at driveways and intersections. Always think Vision Zero!