DOT proposal to convert Lafayette/4th Avenue to two‑way protected bike lane draws divided public comment

The Department of Transportation told Community Board 2 on March 28 that it plans to convert the existing northbound protected bike lane on Lafayette/4th Avenue into a continuous two‑way protected facility from Prince Street to 14th Street, with a short connection to Union Square East between 14th and 15th Street.

Hayes Lord, who leads DOT's cycling and micromobility unit, said the project is intended to close a southbound gap in protected bike infrastructure and to add pedestrian space, curb extensions and an 'amenity strip' between the bike lane and parking. The design would include left‑ and right‑turn lanes at intersections, additional painted and eventual concrete pedestrian islands, leading pedestrian intervals and 'split phases' at several intersections to separate turning motor vehicle movements from bicycle and pedestrian movements.

Turning lane design, parking and loading. DOT said the design anticipates one general through travel lane (with turn lanes where needed) and that the amenity strip and curb extensions create space for bike corrals, planters and refuse/refuge bins. Officials said they are investigating changes to parking regulations between Spring Street and 14th…