What is the Future of New York City’s Bike Lanes?

A report in The Wall Street Journal questions if New York City’s bike lanes, which have been rapidly expanded during Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s third term will continue after he leaves office. The city’s Department of Transportation has expanded the bike network with 54.5 miles of bike lanes in planning or under construction this year after 17 miles were added in 2012. This network has nearly doubled since 2006, to more than 600 bike lane miles citywide.
Critics say the Bloomberg administration has gone too far with its “pro-bike agenda.” However, there is no question that during this time New York City has evolved from a city where bicyclist safety was constantly in question to becoming the nation’s biking capital and a model for other cities. Safety advocates maintain this is not likely to last if there is no continued commitment in the future from the city’s leadership.

Bike Accident Statistics
According to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles, in 2010, there was a total of 6,276 bicycle accidents in which 36 bicyclists were killed and 6,025 were injured. Among those who were injured, 665 suffered serious injuries, 1,831 sustained moderate injuries and 3,133 suffered what were described as minor injuries. During the same year, in fatal bicycle accident cases statewide, the victims were all bicyclists.
Protection for Bicyclists
Bicyclists are more prone to serious injury accidents because they have very little protection in the event of a crash. Bicyclists often suffer catastrophic injuries such as brain damage, spinal cord trauma, broken bones and internal injuries. It is important that New York City officials continue to maintain and grow the infrastructure for bicycle safety.
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Source: The Wall Street Journal