Hartford lawmakers will consider a proposal next week that could lead to changes in how bike lanes are designed and configured across the city, following complaints from small-business owners.
Hartford lawmakers will consider a proposal next week that could lead to changes in how bike lanes are designed and configured across the city, following complaints from residents and small-business owners about parking and customer access.
A resolution scheduled for review by the Planning, Economic Development & Housing Committee on Feb. 17 directs the Department of Public Works to evaluate existing bike lane configurations in residential and commercial areas. The measure cites concerns that certain lane placements may be limiting on-street parking, reducing accessibility and affecting business activity.
The proposal does not mandate immediate changes but instead calls for a study and stakeholder outreach process. Under the resolution, DPW would work with the Department of Development Services, Hartford Parking Authority and Office of Economic Development to assess impacts and explore alternative designs intended to preserve cyclist safety while improving access.
Potential options outlined include recessed or curbside bike lanes that maintain parking, time-restricted lanes to accommodate loading and unloading, and alternative routing strategies.
City officials would be required to engage business owners, neighborhood groups and bicycle advocates as part of the review. The resolution also establishes a reporting requirement, directing DPW to present findings and recommendations to the Court of Common Council within 180 days of adoption.
Hartford has spent years expanding bike lanes, pedestrian improvements and other Complete Streets projects. The pending resolution frames the review as an effort to balance those initiatives with business accessibility and parking concerns.
The committee’s action next week will determine whether the measure advances to the full council for consideration.
