D.C. considers revisions to Connecticut Avenue bike lane plan

• “The loss of such a significant amount of parking along that corridor is a concern of ours,” Lott said, citing complaints from businesses and accessibility worries for residents.

Why it matters: The Connecticut Avenue NW project is a contentious and hugely consequential reshaping of a major commuter thoroughfare. Cycling advocates say the 2.7-mile protected bicycle lane would mean a big leap toward a safer street, after recent deadly motorist crashes.

State of play: Axios reported last Wednesday that DDOT was delaying the release of its final concept design from this spring to the end of this year.

• “We’re not going to rush on this,” Lott said yesterday. The rethinking of the bicycle lane placement “will require a little bit more time,” he added.

Catch up quick: The current concept design puts bicycle lanes from Calvert Street north to Legation Street. It also lowers the speed limit from 30mph to 25mph.

• DDOT also told Axios it is considering an extension several blocks up into Chevy Chase Circle and making the bicycle lanes wider, from 5 feet to 7 feet.
• The agency is also considering having 24/7 parking near businesses, and some spots limited to 30 minutes aimed at patrons of local shops.