By: Addison Parr, Reporter
OMAHA, Neb. – After a week of backlash online and protests around the city, Omaha Mayor, Jean Stothert, issued a statement Thursday evening stating that the protected bikeway on Harney Street will remain in place for the time being.
This statement follows a recent decision to conclude the Market-to-Midtown pilot project at the end of September.
Dozens of cyclists gathered in Dewey Park on Thursday to protest the removal of the protected bike lane. Speakers and organizers of the event emphasized the importance of the convenience and safety of the lane.
Omaha Resident, Jada Escarsega, says that she is proud of her community for fighting for what they believe in.
“You can count it as maybe like a “small victory” but it’s not cause we’re using our rights to protest and to gather to get what we want. And for once someone actually listened.”
Hours after the group had gathered, the mayor announced that the lane will remain in place until the construction of the city’s streetcar route begins.
Environmental Sustainability Graduate Student, Chloe Niel, says that eliminating accessible lanes is not a realistic option based on our commuter culture.
“Most of our cities are not designed to be walkable. They are designed with the assumption that all of the community members have a working car, and that they’ll be commuting.”
Neil says that eliminating accessible bike lanes and sidewalks removes an independent option for citizens. Neil furthers that we must maintain these lanes for the safety of cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers.
Officials say that the Harney Street bike lane will receive maintenance in the short term, including restriping and new bollards.
