Washington Bridge Upgrade Enhances Safety and Accessibility
The Washington Bridge, a vital connection between Upper Manhattan and the Bronx over the Harlem River, has undergone a significant transformation to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and bus riders. The city Department of Transportation recently unveiled the enhancements, which include a dedicated bus lane and a two-way protected bike lane stretching from Amsterdam Avenue in Washington Heights to University Avenue in the Bronx.
According to the DOT, approximately 900 cyclists and 68,000 bus riders utilize the bridge on a daily basis. The upgrades were designed to streamline bus service, reduce the risk of accidents, and provide a more secure environment for all bridge users. Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez emphasized that the improvements will benefit delivery workers and residents on both sides of the river, enhancing connectivity within the community.
New Bike and Bus Lanes Enhance Commuter Experience
One of the most notable changes to the Washington Bridge is the addition of a two-way protected bike lane, located on the side of the bridge with Manhattan-bound car traffic. Cyclists can now safely traverse the bridge without having to share a narrow walkway with pedestrians, reducing the risk of collisions. The bike path is separated from vehicular traffic by jersey barriers with attached fences, providing a dedicated space for cyclists to travel.
To access the bridge via bike, cyclists can utilize protected paths at Amsterdam Avenue and West 182nd Street, as well as Laurel Hill Terrace. Pedestrians also benefit from enhanced safety measures, with separate paths on either side of the bridge protected by jersey barriers to prevent interference from bikes and cars. These improvements aim to create a more inclusive and secure environment for all bridge users, promoting active transportation and reducing congestion.
In addition to the bike lane, the Washington Bridge now features a new half-mile bus lane expansion on the Bronx-bound side of the bridge. This dedicated lane serves five bus routes and connects to key transportation hubs in both Manhattan and the Bronx, including the 181st Street busway, Edward L. Grant Highway, and University Avenue bus lanes. The implementation of automated camera enforcement against drivers blocking the bus lane will help improve bus speed and reliability, benefiting thousands of daily bus riders.
Community Leaders Embrace Safety Upgrades on Washington Bridge
City Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa, who represents the area surrounding the Washington Bridge, expressed her support for the safety upgrades during a recent press conference. De La Rosa recounted her own experience walking the bridge with advocates, highlighting the urgent need for improvements to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety.
“I have to say that I’ve never been so afraid to walk a bridge on foot as I was the day that I walked the Washington Bridge,” De La Rosa shared. “I earned my stripes that day – it was an accident waiting to happen.” The councilmember’s firsthand experience underscores the importance of prioritizing safety enhancements to ensure the well-being of all bridge users.
Looking ahead, the DOT has additional safety upgrades planned for the area before the end of the year. One such improvement is the implementation of a “leading pedestrian interval,” which gives pedestrians a head start when crossing the bridge before vehicles are allowed to move. These measures aim to further enhance safety and accessibility on the Washington Bridge, creating a more welcoming environment for commuters and residents alike.
In conclusion, the recent upgrades to the Washington Bridge mark a significant step forward in enhancing transportation infrastructure and promoting active modes of travel. By prioritizing the safety and accessibility of pedestrians, cyclists, and bus riders, the city is taking proactive steps to create a more sustainable and inclusive transportation network for all New Yorkers. The Washington Bridge serves as a vital link between Manhattan and the Bronx, and these improvements will benefit the community for years to come.