Omaha’s First Protected Bikeway Opens!

Before an audience of supporters, media and interested citizens, Mayor Jean Stothert formally cut the ribbon Wednesday on Omaha’s first protected bikeway.

Known as the Market-to-Midtown Bikeway, this 18-month pilot project of Metro Smart Cities will be collecting usage data and citizen feedback to determine the viability of more bikeways in our community.

As one of Metro Smart Cities’ earliest and most visible pilot projects, The Market-to-Midtown Bikeway is a clear demonstration of the initiative’s objectives: efficiently using infrastructure, providing new means of access through mobility, engaging residents to participate, and innovating in response to community metrics. 

Bikeways create separate spaces for people riding bikes and scooters, driving cars, and walking, while also leaving room for parking. One of the biggest benefits of a bikeway is increased safety – riders instinctively feel safer, and when riders feel safe, they are more likely to consider their bicycle or scooter as a viable transportation choice.

The Market-to-Midtown Bikeway runs two-way on Harney Street, from Midtown Crossing to the Old Market. Signage directs riders to follow pedestrian crossing signals, while motorists and are reminded to watch for bikes and scooters.

Omaha by Design played a key role in bringing the bikeway pilot to fruition, alongside Bike Walk Nebraska and the City of Omaha. Additional project support was provided by Lamp Rynearson, Emspace + Lovgren, Park Omaha, Heartland B-Cycle, Todco Barricade, and Baird Holm.

Metro Smart Cities was built to drive innovation, at the convergence of new technologies and citizen feedback.

Which means – we need you!

We encourage you to get out and ride, and no matter what your choice of mobility, let us know what you think. You can share your experience at metrosmartcities.org/feedback.

Thanks, and have a safe, healthy and happy ride!