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.

The transition toward sustainable urban mobility is not merely a technical challenge but a fundamental reimagining of public space. This briefing synthesizes insights from a 2,000-kilometer investigation across five European countries, analyzing cities that have successfully reduced car dependency in favor of livable, human-centric environments. The primary findings indicate that the "transport transition" (Verkehrswende) succeeds through a combination of clear political mandates, the redistribution of physical space, and the courage of leadership to prioritize long-term social health over short-term political convenience.

The year 2025 marked a significant paradigm shift in U.S. urban planning, characterized by a move away from temporary "paint and flex-post" solutions toward permanent, protected, and people-centered street designs. According to PeopleForBikes, the most successful projects of the year integrated physical separation with placemaking elements, such as public art, transit connectivity, and green infrastructure.