The Valencia Bikeway Improvement team is finalizing the 3-month evaluation report, and early bike usage results are promising. Average daily bike volume is estimated to be about 3% higher than baseline pre-pilot conditions. Current data from the 3-month evaluation shows that the pilot center-running protected bikeway has more users compared to pre-pilot conditions. We plan to present this data and other findings from our evaluation to our MTA Board of Directors in February.
We have seen information circulating that cites a drop in bicycle use during the first month of the center-running lane pilot. The data obtained is presented out of context, and only accounts for a small portion of our evaluation period during which cyclists were returning to Valencia Street after the pilot construction period. This is a typical pattern that can be seen with any road or large construction project upon immediate completion. Reporting incomplete data without the proper context does not support a collaborative and thoughtful process around resolving concerns. We make data-driven and transparent decisions, and we will continue to provide frequent project updates on this webpage, which serves as an accurate and complete source of project information.
Before this project, far too many people were hurt or killed on Valencia between 15th and 23rd, with an average of two collisions every month. More than half the time, a pedestrian or person riding a bike was involved. Most of Valencia is on the city's High Injury Network—the 12% of streets that account for 68% of the city's fatal and severe traffic collisions. We’re committed to making Valencia Street a safe and inviting place for everyone to shop, dine, walk, drive, bike, and roll.
We acknowledge that there is a lot of interest in the pilot. The agency is actively working with the merchants, and we have made several adjustments since the construction of the pilot in response to feedback. We will continue exploring options and working with all the stakeholders.
We will continue to send project updates via e-mail and post the latest information on our website. We invite you to sign up for project alerts here.