As reported here, Pennsylvania Avenue is getting bike lanes. What seemed like a far off dream just weeks ago, is now a reality. It's great to see and sets a remarkable example for the nation and the world. All those stock photo agencies with pics of PA Ave are going to need to update their images. The change will be very significant if the lanes eventually get painted green as indicated in DDOT's full downtown bike lane scheme.

Plans also call for dedicated bike lane traffic signals to be installed. Even with their own traffic signals, navigating the turn off Penn Ave onto its arteries are probably going to be tricky for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and especially tourists to get accustomed to. But I was told that Chief Lanier has authorized that MPD, possibly joined by other law enforcement agencies in the area, will at least initially be giving extra attention to the area to enforce safety for all users.

One lest lane on each side of the median for cars, should not be a problem during non rush hour periods, but the commuters are probably going to express some initial push back if their travel times are extended as they try to enter and exit the city on weekdays.