Already known for its cyclist-friendly community, Minneapolis is taking sharing the roads to a whole new level. Recent projects like the new green bike lanes on campus are being supplemented with nearly double the number of bike lanes that already exist in Northeast, downtown and south Minneapolis.

The Twin Cities metro area will see 75 miles of new bikeways and walkways in the Twin Cities after receiving $22 million through the federal Nonmotorized Transportation Pilot Program.

Since Wednesday, riders have been enjoying the anticipated extension of the Hiawatha Light-Rail Transit trail, as well as new lanes on 15th and 16th streets in downtown. New lanes also connect Loring Park to 11th Avenue South.

Students can now pedal in lanes through more areas in Northeast Minneapolis as well, with an easy connection to the Grand Rounds bicycle trail. 

Some of the new lanes now join downtown Minneapolis with south Minneapolis. The two major east and west routes across south Minneapolis âÄî the Midtown Greenway and the Riverlake Greenway âÄî are now connected.

As bikers begin to enjoy their new paths, we need to be cautious and respectful on the road as well. Everyone using the road must slow down and follow the new lane markings to get familiar with the changes and keep cyclists, pedestrians and drivers safe.

Whether you walk, drive or ride your bike to get around town, remember to be mindful of your surroundings.  By sharing the road with all types of commuters, these new bike lanes will create a positive impact on the city and communities within it.