Seattle plans for protected bike lanes under Monorail

SEATTLE (AP) — Seattle cyclists could be riding in their own protected lane on Fifth Avenue after advocacy groups have begun pushing the plan.

The Seattle Times reports that neighborhood forums, City Council briefings, cost estimates, design studies, or any other steps have not been scheduled, but bicycle advocates have been circling the concept.

City Traffic Engineer Dongho Chang says the lane wouldn't happen this year. At least two other changes are ahead of the Fifth Avenue plan: a route connecting the Mercer Street green lane to Denny Way and a second phase of a news bike lane on Second Avenue. Amazon has also agreed to fund two blocks of protected bikeway to its campus.

Transportation Director Scott Kubly has been working to promote transit, walking and bicycling instead of driving.