Green Shared Lane Markings
Green shared lane markings are similar to regular shared lane markings or “sharrows” but also include a solid green background. Like regular shared lanes, green shared lanes are used to mark a designated bike route. Placed toward the center of the travel lane, they encourage bicyclists to ride in a safe position outside of the door zone (where driver’s side doors of parked cars open).
Green shared lanes do not designate any part of the roadway as either being exclusive to motorists or exclusive to bicyclists. Rather, the green background highlights that the travel lane is shared and that motorists should expect to see bicyclists.
Green shared lanes are currently present on Bryant Ave S between W Lake and 40th Sts, and between W 49th and 50th Sts. They are also located on Hennepin Ave in downtown Minneapolis.
When you drive:
- Motor vehicles are permitted to drive on streets and in lanes that contain green lanes. The one exception is on Hennepin Avenue in downtown where you are only permitted to use the green lane if you are turning right. For more information on Hennepin Avenue, please visit the project page.
- You are allowed to drive on or over the green lane and are not restricted to driving to the left of green lane.
- Bicyclists are allowed to ride in the green lane. If you find yourself driving behind a bicyclist and need to pass, overtake the bicyclist at a safe speed and safe clearance. State law indicates that a motorist can only overtake a bicyclist if there is a safe passing distance of at least 3 feet. Often, you will need to change lanes to pass bicyclists.
When you bike:
- Riding in the green area keeps you out of the door zone and keeps you visible to motorists at cross streets.
- You may, but are not required to ride in the green area of the lane. While the markings are placed in a location to keep you out of the door zone, you should always ride where you feel most comfortable and safe.
Download printer-friendly versions of these materials:
Green Shared Lanes Handout (pdf)
Last updated Feb. 1, 2012