Paving the Way for a Bikeable Downtown

Take a bike ride through downtown Long Beach these days and you will notice a lot of change. Progress is being made toward major bike facility projects that will improve the biking experience for downtown residents (like myself) and visitors alike.

The second phase for the downtown seperated bikeway project has begun. An innovative bicycle lane that is the first of its kind in Southern California, will run down Broadway and Third St from the 710 Freeway to Alamitos. One lane of travel will be removed, and the left side street parking will be moved over one lane to make way for the separated lanes. The lanes were placed on that side of the street since a traffic study found that more cars (as well as city buses) turn right, and this would make it more efficient for both cyclist and motorists. Signals have been placed at most intersections, and this second phase will bring the lane separation and re-striping.The project is expected to be completed by the end of March.   [ Renderings via Bike Long Beach]

Just a block away from the Broadway separated bikeway (and along the under construction  transit mall project) will be the new, permanent home of Long Beach’s Bikestation. The first station (not only in Long Beach, but the entire country), was located at about the same spot, but was temporarily moved to Broadway while preparations were made for the newly-completed park. The new Bikestation, as we reported earlier, will be  an iconic additon to downtown Long Beach. The 2 story, Orange facility will have free bike parking for users on the first floor during normal business hours, as well as 24 hour storage and shower facilities on the second floor for paying members. The station is scheduled to open this Spring.