White Plains Launches First Dedicated Bike Lanes in City's History

Mayor Thomas M. Roach will launch the first ever official dedicated bike lane route in the City of White Plains on Saturday, June 16, 2012, at 11:00 am at the White Plains Library Plaza.

Mayor Roach will be joined by Council Member David Buchwald; David McKay Wilson, Westchester Putnam Cycling Club President; Veronica Vanterpool, Tri-State Transportation Campaign Executive Director; and Kate Marshall, Cycling Safety Instructor, along with cyclists from throughout Westchester County. 

A short press conference will be followed by a bike ride following the bike lane route. Click on the PDF for a map of the bike lanes and bike path

The bike lane route is both a commuter and recreational route connecting residents from the more suburban sections of White Plains to the downtown, train station and Bronx River pathway. The loop encompasses Lexington Avenue, Martin Luther King Blvd and Water Street.

“This is an historic accomplishment for the City. Dedicated bike lanes have been discussed for thirty years and we finally made it happen. I’m proud to work with my colleagues in moving our city to a more bikeable, walkable downtown. Bike lanes are a low cost way to implement traffic calming tools. I want to thank Commissioner Tom Soyk on his leadership and guidance throughout this process,” said Mayor Roach.

Bike lanes provide numerous safety, health, environmental, and traffic benefits. On wide streets, they help slow down vehicular traffic making it safer for people of all ages and abilities to cross. Bike lanes improve traffic flow and reduce the chance that motorists will stray into cyclists’ path of travel. They also remind motorists to look for cyclists when turning or opening car doors. Additionally, they provide a safe space for bicyclists on streets while also encouraging bicyclists to ride in the correct direction of traffic.

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