Protected bike lanes under consideration by City

As part of Culver City’s efforts to become a more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly community, the City is considering constructing a protected bike lane along Washington Boulevard from Wesley Street to Ince Boulevard to provide a safe, family-friendly connection for bike riders traveling from the Expo Line Station to Downtown Culver City, officials said.

A public workshop has been scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 7 at 10 a.m. in the Dan Patacchia Room at City Hall, 9770 Culver Blvd. The City invites all interested residents, business owners, and other stakeholders along the corridor to attend.

As Culver City celebrates its Centennial year, “we are also looking to the next 100 years,” officials said. “We know our future is more walkable, bikeable, and transit-oriented. With the success of the Metro Expo Line, it is important for us to plan for greater connectivity between our station and Downtown Culver City.”

“I invite the public to come learn about this project and share your thoughts on how we can make it easier to move through our community,” said Culver City Mayor Jim B. Clarke.

A protected bike lane is a relatively new type of bike lane in the United States that is very common in European cities. Protected bike lanes separate bike riders from moving traffic with a physical barrier, such as a curb, bollards, planters, or parked cars.

Local examples include Broadway in Long Beach; Reseda Boulevard and Los Angeles Street in Los Angeles; and Rosemead Boulevard in Temple City.

If approved, this project would be the first protected bike lane in Culver City.

In order to accommodate a protected bike lane on Washington Boulevard, the City is considering changes to the street including turn lanes, driveway access, parking and traffic signals.This project may require additional right-of-way in limited locations.

Interested stakeholders should attend the Jan. 7 public workshop oto see conceptual project plans and provide input to the Culver City Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.

The City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator, Eric Bruins, can be reached at 310-253-5616 or eric.bruins@culvercity.org