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Council approves shared‑lane markings on 28th Street to improve east–west bike connections
Summary
The Superior Common Council approved pavement markings to create shared‑lane “bike share” markings on parts of 28th Street intended to improve commuter and school connections; staff said the marking follows NACTO guidance and will increase visibility, not constitute a protected bike lane.
The Superior Common Council voted to approve pavement markings creating shared‑lane bicycle routes on parts of 28th Street, a measure presenters said is intended to improve east–west commuter and school connections.
Ron Chica of the Metropolitan Interstate Council told the council the project is “really about connections,” linking neighborhoods, schools and major generators across the southern part of town. James Gittmeyer, principal planner with the NIC, said 28th/20th Street lacks the width for conventional bike lanes and that shared‑lane markings are recommended when traffic counts are low and posted speeds meet national guidance. He said the shared‑lane design follows guidance from the National Association of City Transportation Officials and helps clarify where bicyclists may position themselves on the roadway.
Public Works Director Janico explained how the marking and signage will be placed. “The misnomer in in these pictures, I think, is that they’ve got the the share of right down the middle of the road,” Janico said; he added that the city intends to align dashed markings with the roadway edge so bicyclists use the side of the lane and can be overtaken when traffic allows.
Councilors raised safety questions about placing bicyclists in traffic at posted speeds near 35 mph. Councilor Fennessy said he was concerned about “sandwiching a bicycle in between cars going 35 miles an hour.” Presenters acknowledged the tradeoffs but said the road’s lower vehicle counts and pavement markings make shared lanes an appropriate short‑term connection until dedicated lanes become feasible.
The council approved the Public Works Committee’s recommendation by voice vote. Implementation will include standard MUTCD symbols and signage and the city noted there is no room for a dedicated lane on the constrained segment without removing a vehicle travel lane.
