Undoing Bike Lanes in the Capital
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Undoing Bike Lanes in the Capital
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About this listen
As of early 2026, reports indicate the federal government is investigating justifications to dismantle key bicycle infrastructure within Washington, D.C. Documents and interviews suggest the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) is analyzing congestion patterns on major corridors to support a "reallocation" of lane space back to motorized vehicles. This initiative, supported by statements from Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, posits that bike lanes are a primary driver of urban gridlock.However, the proposal faces significant opposition based on the FHWA’s own historical research, local safety data, and the principles of urban planning. Critics argue the analysis relies on "dubious calculations" that ignore the benefits of multi-modal transportation. Furthermore, the move is seen as a potential violation of the administration's stated goals regarding the devolution of power to local governments. Because of Washington, D.C.'s "Limited Home Rule" status, advocates fear the city is being used as a testing ground for a broader federal pivot away from "complete streets" and toward car-centric infrastructure nationwide.