In efforts to reduce overcrowding, amongst making NYC safer and more environmentally friendly, Manhattan Borough President Mark D. Levine has proposed closing one lane of traffic on the West Side Highway to turn into a two-way bike lane.
Currently, the Hudson River Greenway (that runs along the West Side Highway) remains one of the busiest greenways in the nation. You can find it constantly packed with walkers, runners and cyclists daily.
The limited space on the greenway has resulted in disorganization and potential dangers as BP Levine discussed walkers having to cross into bike traffic and e-bikers being forced into traffic (since e-bikes are not permitted on the greenway path).
The Hudson River Greenway is wonderful–and incredibly overcrowded. Today we're announcing support for a solution that will make moving along this vital route safer for everybody. pic.twitter.com/V3fHxntfbI
— Office of Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine (@MBPMarkLevine) August 2, 2022
Therefore, BP Levine suggests adding a dedicated protected space for cyclists to make NYC ‘safer for everybody,’ including delivery workers who rely on cycling for their job. The proposed solution would run 4-miles long from 57th Street to Chambers Street.
Community members and other local leaders have expressed their support for the proposal, while others fear it may worsen vehicular traffic.
“This is the kind of innovation, the kind of creative use of infrastructure that we need to make our city safer, more environmentally friendly, resilient and better for everybody,” said BP Levine. “So let’s make it happen.”
According to ABC7, if approvals are given by the city and state transportation departments, BP Levine hopes completion would occur simultaneously with the start of congestion pricing.
The proposal is currently being reviewed by the State Department of Transportation.