The NYPD banned cyclists from the Hudson River Bikeway on July 4 to accommodate pedestrian crowds, according to a report from Streetsblog. Officers used French barricades to divert foot traffic onto the bike path and shut down all Citi Bike docking stations near the Hudson and East Rivers, leaving cyclists without designated detours or signage.
Why did the NYPD close the Hudson River Bikeway?
NYPD leadership decided to divert all foot traffic onto the bike path because the pedestrian path along the Hudson was at risk of overcrowding. Officers were given a directive to ensure no bicycles touched the path to eliminate bike-on-pedestrian conflicts.
On-the-ground officers told cyclists to either use the eastern sidewalk or ride in the vehicular lanes of Route 9A. The eastern sidewalk was narrowed by metal barricades and crowded with pedestrians, while riding on the sidewalk is illegal. This forced many riders into high-speed traffic on Route 9A.
How did agency coordination fail during the event?
A lack of coordination occurred between the New York State Department of Transportation, which maintains and operates Route 9A and the bike path, and the NYPD, which handles crowd control. While the NYPD restricted cycling and disabled Citi Bike stations, vehicle driving and parking regulations on the corridor remained untouched.
Reports indicate that vehicle traffic on Route 9A was exceptionally light on the holiday. This suggests that a single driving lane could have been converted into a protected bike lane without inconveniencing motorists.
What may happen before the next major celebration?
The current policy may need correction to avoid similar logistical failures during future events. A possible next step could involve better coordination between the NYPD and the NYSDOT to establish official detours. If not addressed, cyclist safety could remain a concern until the nation’s 275th anniversary in 2051.
Frequently Asked Questions
What options did NYPD officers give to cyclists?
Officers advised cyclists to either use the sidewalk on the east side of the road or take a lane with vehicular traffic on Route 9A.
Were there any signs directing cyclists to alternative routes?
No, there were no detour signs provided by the city.
What happened to Citi Bike access?
The NYPD forced Citi Bike to shut down all docking stations adjacent to both the Hudson and East Rivers.
Do you believe city event planning should prioritize dedicated bike detours over pedestrian overflow?
