San Diego’s cycling community has a new pathway to explore, thanks to the completion of the Pershing bike lanes that now link North Park directly to downtown San Diego.
The project, launched in 2019, was in the works for over four years and reflects a minimum investment of $12 million* into the city’s transportation infrastructure while also making sewage and drain pipe improvements.
Designed with protective barriers, strategically placed green-painted sections, and clear signage, the lanes aim to enhance safety for both bikers and drivers. The route also provides a scenic passage through Balboa Park, making it an attractive option for commuters and recreational cyclists alike.
Beginning at the intersection of Utah and Landis Streets in North Park, the route heads south along Utah Street before linking with Pershing Drive. From there, it passes through Balboa Park and continues to C Street in Downtown San Diego. This 2.3-mile pathway provides an easy route for cyclists and pedestrians to reach key destinations like Balboa Park, San Diego City College, Morley Field Golf Course, Downtown San Diego, and Golden Hill Park.
Map of The Pershing Bikeway Route
The development of the Pershing bike lanes was not without challenges. The project faced delays due to environmental reviews and community input, but the final result is a modern bike lane system that promises to be a valuable addition to San Diego’s transportation network.
To help those interested better understand and visualize the impact of this project, North Park, San Diego – NOW! has created an immersive 360-degree virtual video tour. This video allows viewers to experience the beauty and practicality of this new connection between two vital parts of the city.
360 Video Tour of The Pershing Bikeway Project
For the best 360 interactive experience, click the settings gear icon in the bottom right corner of the player to select 4K resolution. If you’re on mobile, open it in the YouTube app and tilt your phone to explore.
Now that the lanes are open, the big question remains: was the minimum of $12 million* price tag worth it? In a city where transportation funds are often limited, this significant investment in bike infrastructure reflects a strong commitment to sustainable and alternative transportation methods. Advocates believe that the benefits – reduced traffic, lower emissions, and improved public health – make the investment worthwhile.
The true test will be whether cyclists take advantage of these new lanes. Early signs are positive; the direct connection to downtown, coupled with an increasing interest in cycling across the city, suggests that these lanes will see plenty of use. Additionally, with the growing awareness of environmental issues and the rising cost of driving, more residents might be encouraged to switch to biking.
While only time will reveal the full impact of the Pershing bike lanes, the project is a promising step toward a more bike-friendly San Diego. The investment reflects the city’s broader vision for sustainable transportation, and with the right community engagement, these lanes could become a vital part of San Diego’s infrastructure.
What do you think? Were they worth it?
You may also want to visit Pershing Bikeway Details and Rider Tips.
To learn more about the development of Pershing Bikeway, visit sandag.org.
*EDIT ON AUGUST, 24, 2024*
Thank you to an individual who conducted extensive research, we have been provided with information estimating the proposed project cost at approximately $27.5 million. You can verify this on page 205 of the document.
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