Bike Walk Oak Park has been closely following the community discussions about the Oak Park Bike Plan. We strongly support community input in the planning process, but believe that access to accurate information about bike lanes and their impact is essential to maintaining constructive dialogue. Unfortunately, many public comments reflect common myths that can misinform the conversation, and we’d like to address those myths here.
Myth #1: Bike lanes lower property values.
Evidence shows that bike-friendly neighborhoods often experience *increased* property values. People are drawn to communities with safe, sustainable transportation options like bike lanes. Investing in bike infrastructure enhances Oak Park’s appeal.
Myth #2: Bike lanes increase congestion.
Bike lanes have been shown to reduce car traffic by offering residents a safe alternative to driving. Safer streets benefit everyone, including drivers, by reducing congestion and creating a more predictable traffic flow.
Myth #3: Bike lanes will block emergency vehicles or delivery trucks.
Well-designed bike lanes do not impede emergency services or deliveries and consider them in their design. By reducing overall traffic congestion, they improve the flow of all vehicles, including ambulances and fire trucks. Many cities with bike lanes have shown that these systems can coexist seamlessly.
Myth #4: Bike lanes hurt businesses.
Research demonstrates that bike lanes can help businesses. Cyclists often make more frequent visits to local shops and restaurants, and areas with bike-friendly infrastructure tend to attract more foot and bike traffic, boosting sales.
Myth #5: “I don’t see people biking on this street, so it must not need a bike lane.”
Usage increases when bike lanes are built. Communities with safe, connected bike networks consistently see higher ridership. By investing in bike lanes, Oak Park can encourage more people to choose a healthier, more sustainable mode of transportation.
Myth #6: “I’m comfortable biking on our street as it is, so we don’t need a bike lane.”
While some residents feel comfortable biking without dedicated lanes, this isn’t the case for everyone. Bike lanes provide a safer space for children, older adults, and less experienced riders. They make biking an option for more people, not just seasoned cyclists.
Myth #7: Homeowners have a right to park in front of their house.
The space in front of a home is part of the public right-of-way and is not owned or controlled by the homeowner. Municipalities manage these publicly-owned spaces to benefit the entire community, balancing needs like parking, bike lanes, and pedestrian access. While homeowners may be accustomed to parking in front of their homes, there is no inherent right to that space.
At Bike Walk Oak Park, we strive to provide accurate, objective information about active transportation. We hope these facts will help inform the community dialogue about bike lanes and their potential to enhance safety, sustainability, and accessibility for all. Interested in continuing the conversation? Please reach out to us at https://www.bikewalkoakpark.org/contact-us.
Nicole Chavas is an Oak Park resident writing on behalf of Bike Walk Oak Park, a volunteer advocacy group of Oak Park residents who work toward the fair and safe use of friendly streets by all our neighbors who walk, roll, ride and drive.