March 30, 2023

The City of Chicago Department of Transportation released an updated cycling strategy yesterday that features Epstein's design of approximately 25 miles of buffered and protected bike lanes throughout the city. Epstein's civil and planning group recently prepared feasibility studies, concept designs, Phase I reports, plans, specifications, and estimates as part of CDOT's Streets for Cycling Program to help create better bike lanes for cyclists. The scope of work included planning, design and public involvement for preparation of pavement marking, intersection improvements, sign placement, ADA ramps, and details for the construction of bike lanes as part of the City’s resurfacing program.

Overall, the cycling strategy identifies a vision for next 150 miles of bikeways, emphasizing low-stress options to make riding a bike safer and more convenient for all Chicagoans. Application of the strategy allows for flexible approaches to best meet the needs of residents on a city-wide and neighborhood level, and establishes three pillars for everyday cycling:

  • A connected network serving all neighborhoods and all Chicagoans
  • Focused on local trips to get people to the places that are most meaningful to them
  • Providing low-stress options to make everyday cycling safe and convenient

CDOT's plan to implement 150 miles of new bikeways in the next few years includes citywide connections and local neighborhood routes. Of the identified projects, 85 percent are protected bike lanes or neighborhood greenways. Currently, half of Chicagoans live within 1/2 mile of a protected bike lane, neighborhood greenway, or off-street trail. Implementation of the next 150 miles will result in 70 percent of Chicagoans living within 1/2 mile of a low-stress bikeway.

You can read more about the program and download the complete Cycling Strategy on the City of Chicago Department of Transportation's website.