Salem Plans To Test Dedicated Bike Lanes This Summer

SALEM, MA — Salem is finalizing details to open a series of "pop-up" bike lanes on weekends this summer in an effort to reduce traffic and parking congestion. In a Facebook post Wednesday, Mayor Kim Driscoll said the city was finalizing details on the pilot program, with the hope of opening the lanes in mid-July and continuing the program through the end of August.

"By providing safer ways for people to access downtown Salem without using a car, we hope to lessen congestion and parking challenges during busy summer weekends," Driscoll said. "It will also better connect the neighborhoods surrounding these routes to the many stores, restaurants, cultural amenities, and special events taking place downtown."

The lanes, which would be open for a total of 12 days, are shown on the map below:

"As we continue our shared commitment to reducing traffic congestion and improving access to healthier and more environmentally responsible means of transportation, I hope you’ll lend your support to this 12-day, weekend bike lane pilot project," Driscoll said. "As we work through the details, we’d appreciate your suggestions and feedback. Let us know your thoughts by emailing mayor@salem.com."