Changes to Hennepin & 1st Avenue
Hennepin and 1st Avenues downtown have been converted from 1-way to 2-way streets. For bicyclists, this means several changes:
- Bicycle lanes have moved from Hennepin to 1st Avenue. New bike lanes on 1st Avenue run along the curb. In some sections parked cars will be located 6 feet from the curb, providing a buffer between moving autos and bicycles. Connections between Hennepin and 1st Avenues are marked with bike lanes on 2nd, 11th, and 12th Streets.
- Bicyclists are still welcome on Hennepin Avenue, in shared bus, bike, and right-turn lanes. These lanes also run along the curb.
- Bike boxes will be added at six locations where bicyclists are likely to make left turns. Located between the crosswalk and the line where autos stop, bike boxes will allow left-turning bicyclists to line up in front of motorists. Follow the links below to learn more about how to stay safe while using a bike box.
Each of these changes can be explored in depth on the project website. Video simulations, MP3 files, and cross sections of the project are available on this website. For a closer look at the bullet points above, read What Bicyclists & Driver Need to Know (pdf).
Please exercise patience as all road users acclimate to the changes. Your patience is also appreciated as city crews will be working over the coming months to bring the project to 100% completion.
Last updated Apr. 19, 2012