Chicago Bike Lane Envy Sweeps the Nation

Who would have thunk it just two years ago: Portland, Seattle -- even some New York City residents -- jealous of Chicago's cutting-edge bike infrastructure.

But here we sit, roughly a year and a half into Mayor Rahm Emanuel's first term, and the city of Chicago has a protected, bi-directional bike lane running directly through the heart of its downtown. Bike advocates from major cities are taking notice.

Here's what Jonathan Maus at Bike Portland had to say:

Tom Fucoloro at Seattle Bike Blog just came out and said he's "envious" in a recent post:

Even New York City residents have been impressed by Chicago's determination to reallocate space from cars to bikes.

I think Chicago's burgeoning reputation for bold street redesigns was exactly what Rahm Emanuel had in mind when he got elected and picked Gabe Klein to lead his transportation department. Looks like he's living up to his reputation as a guy who can get stuff done.

Elsewhere on the Network today: Beyond DC reports that some major Amtrak upgrades are in store for Virginia. WalkBikeJersey says that Atlantic City is making much-needed efforts to improve bike-friendliness. And WABA celebrates the official opening of the L Street protected bike lane in Washington, D.C.