The Case for a Protected Bike Lane on Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn, NYC: Enhancing Safety for Residents and Businesses

As bicycle accident lawyers in New York City, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of unsafe cycling conditions on our streets. A recent data analysis on Bedford Avenue by Replica underscores the urgent need for a protected bike lane, which would not only enhance safety but also benefit the local residents and businesses in Bedford-Stuyvesant and Clinton Hill.

A significant portion of the thousands of cyclists who traverse Bedford Avenue daily are local residents commuting to homes, shops, and workplaces within the neighborhood. This debunks the myth that street safety projects cater primarily to non-residents. The data, compiled by Replica, highlights that 56% of these cyclists are people of color, and 45% end their trips in Bed-Stuy or Clinton Hill. Furthermore, 60% of these trips conclude at residential locations, while 29% end at retail spots, demonstrating the reliance of local cyclists on this corridor.

The push for a protected bike lane has garnered substantial support from local businesses. Forty-one businesses along Bedford Avenue between Dean and Flushing have signed a letter backing the project. McKendree Key, founder of the Artshack ceramic studio, emphasized the safety concerns, noting that the current bike lane is frequently obstructed by vehicles, posing risks to the many children and adults who visit the studio each week.

Despite the clear benefits and community support, the implementation of the protected bike lane has faced significant delays. Initially proposed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) last year, the project was postponed indefinitely after an April community board meeting. The delay reflects a broader pattern of stalled transportation projects under the current administration, often influenced by political considerations rather than public safety needs.

The consequences of these delays are evident in the alarming rise in accidents on Bedford Avenue

In the first half of 2024 alone, there were 97 crashes, resulting in injuries to six cyclists, 12 pedestrians, and 50 motorists, with one pedestrian fatality. This marks an increase from 87 crashes in the same period of the previous year, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures.

A protected bike lane on Bedford Avenue would provide a critical safety upgrade, transforming the current painted lane into a secure, parking-protected pathway. This change would safeguard cyclists from vehicle interference, reduce accidents, and create a more inviting environment for cycling.

The data clearly indicates that Bedford Avenue is not merely a thoroughfare for passing traffic but a vital artery for the local community. Implementing a protected bike lane would directly benefit the residents and businesses of Bed-Stuy and Clinton Hill, fostering a safer, more vibrant neighborhood.