Path Forward for Full-Time Bus Lanes and Bike Lanes on Hennepin Ave South

We are excited to share that we’re ending this week with a path forward for full-time bus lanes and bike lanes on Hennepin Ave South! This is thanks to the hard work of Move Minnesota supporters, our amazing partners, and elected allies. But we still have some challenges to overcome with the City of Minneapolis to make these lanes a reality—and we’re ready to keep fighting.

Here’s a quick update on where things stand and what’s happening next:

• On May 19, Minneapolis Public Works proposed a street design plan for Hennepin that includes a lot of great things—including protected bike lanes and important pedestrian improvements—but does not include full-time bus lanes. Public Works staff had formally recommended 24/7 bus lanes for Hennepin months ago, after years of public engagement. Their last-minute change reversed that recommendation right before a critical City Council committee vote on the project.
• Council member and transit champion Aisha Chughtai introduced new language directing staff to implement 24/7 bus lanes on Hennepin anyway! This passed the committee 3-2, creating a critical path forward for full-time bus lanes on day one.
• On Thursday, May 26, the full City Council will vote on the redesign plan and will also vote separately on the full-time bus lanes.

Big thanks and appreciation to all the advocates and allies fighting together for a Hennepin Ave that puts people and our climate first!

And big thanks and appreciation to Minneapolis City Council Members Aisha Chughtai, Elliott Payne, and Robin Wonsley Worlobah for their leadership. Their votes and actions on the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee yesterday kept us moving toward these full-time bus lanes—and toward a more equitable, sustainable future for our city. Council Members Emily Koski and LaTricia Vetaw voted no. While not on the committee, we also thank Council Member Jason Chavez who publicly announced his strong support for 24/7 bus lanes on Hennepin earlier this week.

Continuing to shore up support from more council members is essential going into Thursday’s vote. In the meantime, dedicated bus lanes on Hennepin Ave South are still at risk. Keep speaking up in support and pack City Hall on May 26 with Move Minnesota, Hennepin for People, Our Streets Minneapolis, Sierra Club, and other local allies to keep the pressure on!