Residents of Jersey City’s Heights neighborhood are witnessing a transformative change this month with the launch of a pioneering safety initiative: the introduction of a protected bike lane along Manhattan Avenue. The city’s administration hopes this pilot project, which converts Manhattan Avenue into a one-way eastbound street from Summit Avenue to Central Avenue, will significantly enhance pedestrian safety while accommodating cyclists with a dedicated two-way protected bikeway and curb extensions.
Under the proposed plan, curbside parking will be limited to the north side of Manhattan Avenue. Additionally, Franklin Avenue is slated for a conversion to one-way westbound traffic between Central and Sherman Avenue as part of this initiative.
The trial period for these changes will extend until the end of June. During this time, the city will gather feedback from residents and traffic experts to evaluate the project’s effectiveness and determine whether to proceed with permanent implementation, make modifications, or abandon the plan entirely.
Local advocacy group Bike JC has emerged as a staunch supporter of the project. Ayla Schermer, president of Bike JC and a community planner with the Federal Transit Administration, emphasized the importance of filling the existing gap in protected bike lanes within the Heights neighborhood. She pointed out that while other parts of Jersey City have seen the establishment of designated bike lanes, the Heights has been notably absent until now.
However, not all Heights residents share Bike JC’s enthusiasm. Concerns have been raised about potential increases in vehicular traffic on local streets as a result of the new bike lane configurations. Critics like Keila Castro, Leila Castro, and Charles Balcer have voiced apprehensions ranging from traffic congestion to lane dimensions, prompting ongoing discussions and assessments by city officials.
Yousef Saleh, Ward D representative, noted positive initial observations regarding emergency vehicle maneuverability within the new traffic pattern along Manhattan Avenue. Nevertheless, challenges such as potential changes to delivery truck routes remain under scrutiny.
Reflecting on community feedback, Saleh acknowledged a mixed response among constituents but highlighted the city’s commitment to exploring innovative solutions to improve safety and mobility. Initiatives such as increased enforcement of traffic laws, installation of parklets, four-way stops at intersections, and speed bumps are part of broader efforts to address residents’ concerns about traffic and pedestrian safety.
The introduction of bike lanes on Manhattan Avenue is seen as a landmark initiative by Saleh, who likened it to a “moon-landing moment” for the neighborhood. Furthermore, recent measures like the “no turn on red” restrictions at priority intersections underscore Jersey City’s proactive approach to managing traffic flow and enhancing safety measures.
For advocates like Ayla Schermer, the benefits of bike lanes extend beyond safety, citing their role in promoting cycling as a viable alternative to driving. “Bike lanes not only provide cyclists with protected space but also encourage drivers to reduce their speed, thereby calming traffic,” she explained. With Jersey City Heights offering an ideal terrain for cycling, Schermer anticipates increased community engagement and reduced dependence on cars as a result of these initiatives.
As Jersey City continues to navigate the complexities of urban mobility, the implementation of the Manhattan Avenue bike lane stands as a pivotal step towards creating safer, more sustainable neighborhoods.