Wheel Deal: Newark Opens First Bike Lane

A few days ago Newark opened its first bike lane, with additional lanes to follow by December, the office of Mayor Cory Booker said in a statement.

The lane runs on Washington Street for eight blocks between Raymond Boulevard and Broad Street.and consists of a green textured pavement, with signs, pavement markings, and high-visibility stamped crosswalks to create a safer environment for pedestrians. The high-friction surfacing material, called “Safe-T-Grip,” was also recently used on bus lanes along Raymond Boulevard between McCarter Highway and Raymond Plaza East. The lane was built in partnership between Rutgers-Newark and the city’s department of engineering.

“Creating bicycle lanes in our city makes us friendlier to bike-riders, supports a cleaner environment, and helps us continue to promote healthier lifestyles for our residents,” Booker said in a statement. “I commend the department of engineering and Rutgers-Newark on this partnership, and urge residents to put the pedal to the metal on Washington Street.”

Lanes are also to be constructed at Mt. Prospect Avenue between City Line and Heller Parkway; Irvine Turner Boulevard between Clinton and Springfield avenues; Jones Street between Springfield and South Orange avenues; Clifton Avenue between Orange Street and Victoria Avenue; and along First Street between West Market Street and Sussex Avenue.