Washington, DC Advances Design of 15th Street NW Protected Bike Lane to Bridge Critical Gap
The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is advancing the design phase for a new two-way protected bike lane along 15th Street NW (from New York Ave to H St NW) and H Street NW (from 15th St to Vermont Ave NW). This project addresses a key gap in one of DC’s highest-ridership cycletracks, offering a reliable, safe route for cyclists bypassing frequent closures in the White House security perimeter, such as Lafayette Park. Community feedback has been gathered through presentations to ANC 2C, with the latest in February 2025.
Background
The 15th St NW Cycletrack is a vital corridor for cyclists in downtown Washington, DC, but a gap between New York Ave NW and Vermont Ave NW currently forces riders to detour through Pennsylvania Ave NW or Lafayette Park—routes often disrupted by White House security events. During closures, cyclists resort to unsafe options like sidewalks or riding against traffic on 15th Street. DDOT’s project will install protected bike lanes on the west side of 15th Street NW and north side of H Street NW, seamlessly connecting existing segments north and south of the area. The initiative follows DDOT’s standard process: needs assessment, concept planning, design (current phase), and construction. Recent community engagement includes a July 2024 project kick-off presentation and a February 2025 65% design review for ANC 2C. Project manager David Balick ([email protected]) is leading efforts, with general inquiries directed to [email protected].
Future Outlook
With design underway and community input incorporated via recent ANC presentations, the project is poised for final design approval and construction in the coming years. This connection will significantly boost cyclist safety and reliability in a high-traffic area, aligning with DC’s Strategic Bike Plan for expanded protected infrastructure. Residents can stay involved by contacting DDOT or attending future public meetings, contributing to broader sustainable transportation goals amid growing cycling demand.