Jersey City Approves First Protected Bike Lane in The Heights

The new two-way bikeway on Franklin Street aims to improve cycling safety and access to a local park.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:56pm

A repeating grid pattern of a stylized bicycle icon in bright neon blue, pink, and yellow, conceptually representing the new protected bike lane infrastructure in Jersey City.A bold, pop art-inspired illustration celebrates the installation of Jersey City's first protected bike lane in The Heights neighborhood.Jersey City Today

Jersey City's City Council has approved a plan to install the neighborhood of The Heights' first protected bike lane on Franklin Street. The project, funded by a state grant, will create a two-way protected bikeway between Palisade Avenue and Central Avenue, along with a connection to Pershing Field Park. The plan also includes pedestrian safety enhancements such as curb extensions and crosswalk improvements. As part of the design, Franklin Street will be converted to a one-way westbound street to accommodate the new bike infrastructure.

Why it matters

The new protected bike lane on Franklin Street will be a significant addition to The Heights, a neighborhood that has historically lacked dedicated cycling infrastructure. This project aims to improve safety and access for cyclists, encouraging more people to choose biking as a mode of transportation in the area. It also demonstrates Jersey City's commitment to expanding its network of protected bike lanes beyond just the downtown core.

The details

The protected bike lane on Franklin Street will be constructed with physical barriers such as concrete curbs or bollards to separate cyclists from vehicle traffic. This design provides a higher level of safety and comfort for riders compared to traditional painted bike lanes. The project also includes a protected bikeway connection on Central Avenue to improve access to Pershing Field Park, a popular local destination. Several pedestrian safety features, like curb extensions and high-visibility crosswalks, are also part of the plan.

  • Jersey City's City Council approved the project in April 2026.
  • Contracts for the construction work will be awarded by the city in June 2026.
  • The bike lane is anticipated to begin construction in the fall of 2026.

The players

Jersey City

The city government of Jersey City, New Jersey, which approved the protected bike lane project on Franklin Street in The Heights neighborhood.

New Jersey Department of Transportation

The state transportation agency that awarded a Bikeways Grant to Jersey City to fund the construction of the protected bike lane.

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What’s next

Contracts for the construction work will be awarded by the city in June 2026, with the bike lane anticipated to begin construction in the fall of that year.

The takeaway

This project demonstrates Jersey City's commitment to expanding its network of protected bike lanes beyond just the downtown core, providing safer and more accessible cycling options for residents of The Heights neighborhood.