Skip to Content
Streetsblog California home
Streetsblog California home
Log In
Streetsblog USA

Cambridge Becomes First U.S. City to Make Protected Bike Lanes Mandatory

The Boston suburb of Cambridge is poised to become one of the most-progressive safe-biking cities in the country, thanks to the passage of a bill requiring protected bike lanes on all city streets.

The "Cycling Safety Ordinance" requires city streets to be upgraded to include the safest bike paths whenever a roadway is repaired or resurfaced. It is expected to result in a 20-mile network of protected bike lanes in five years for the city of 113,000.

The ordinance, which passed 7-0, will bind the city to provide protected bike infrastructure except in "rare" circumstances, which city officials will be required to justify. The ordinance requires that vertical physical barriers be included.

"With the Cycling Safety Ordinance, the Council codifies a lasting commitment to the users of our roadways that Cambridge intends to have a modern, safe, and accessible network of separated bicycle lanes for all residents regardless of their age or ability," Mayor Marc McGovern said in a statement.

The bike advocacy group Cambridge Bike Safety plans to lobby the city to adjust its construction schedule to build four miles of protected bike lanes every year for five years.

"Increased bicycle use is most appropriate in our city, which is the fourth-densest city in the country," said City Councilor Dennis Carlone in a statement. "This emerging way of travel promotes personal health, a cleaner environment, and even greater retail sales."

Some locals say the ordinance will put the city on par with some European leaders on infrastructure and ridership.

https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

Portland is the only city we are aware of that has a similar policy. In 2015, the city made protected bike lanes standard on all "major streets." Progress has been slow, but the city's plan calls for protected bike lanes on 450 miles of streets.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog California

SGV Connect 136: Here Comes the Olympics

What to the Olympics hold for the San Gabriel Valley in 2028? Damien talks with Alissa Walker, co-host of the L.A. Podcast and editor of Torched.

May 30, 2025

Friday’s Headlines

Quick! Write your legislators to support quick build!

May 30, 2025

Streets for All and KidSafe SF Merge

Streets For All is merging with KidSafe SF to expand the reach of both organizations, accelerate progress on reducing traffic deaths, and increase sustainable transportation options for all Californians

May 29, 2025

AIDS/LifeCycle Kicks Off Its Last Ride This Sunday

After 31 years, one of California's most iconic fundraisers and experiences will come to an end.

May 29, 2025

Thursday’s Headlines

Cameras, cameras, everywhere!

May 29, 2025

Talking Headways Podcast: Bike Guides to Build Your City

Bill Schultheiss on AASHTO and NACTO bike lane design guides, the importance of history, political will and the stress of being an expert witness in court.

May 29, 2025
See all posts