We’re working to keep cyclists safe on the road, but motorists and cyclists still have to watch out for each other.

McArthur Avenue has just been reconfigured with new lane markings to separate new bike lanes from traffic with a painted buffer, and in some areas, concrete curbs, bicycle-friendly bulb-outs, planters, a row of parked cars and/or flexposts. While the wide painted buffer offers additional protection for cyclists, there is still a risk of “dooring.” Cyclists should always be on the lookout for car doors opening, whether it’s on the driver’s side or the passenger’s side. Motorists should check for cyclists before opening their doors. When there is a bike lane on the right, they should also remind their passengers to check for cyclists before opening their doors.

To safely use the new lanes, when heading west on McArthur Avenue approaching Vanier Parkway, cyclists and motorists in the right turn lane should travel single file. That way, drivers turning right from McArthur onto Vanier can merge into the bike lane to make their turn.

We’ve expanded the City’s cycling network by adding bike lanes along the entire length of McArthur Avenue between St. Laurent Boulevard and North River Road. The lanes offer a convenient link over the Rideau River using the Adawe Crossing and connect to downtown, uOttawa, the Rideau Canal and many other cycling routes. This route will also allow for future connections to communities east of St. Laurent.