That bike lane problem zone in front of Union Station will become a protected bike lane

The Wynkoop bike lane near Union Station got the most complaints from cyclists in Denver’s Vision Zero survey, but a new configuration could change that.

staff photo
Denver's Union Station

denver; colorado; downtown; lodo; denverite; transportation; union station; landmark; train

Denver's Union Station. (Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite)

The Wynkoop bike lane near Union Station has gotten its fair share of complaints. Actually, it got the most complaints from cyclists in Denver’s Vision Zero survey.

But that could change now that Denver Public Works started installing protection for the lane. Yes, Wynkoop Street from 16th to 18th Streets is becoming a protected bikeway on its northern side. (In front of Union Station, in other words.) 

Like the 14th Street bike lane, there will be concrete curb protection to prevent cars from parking in that part of the bike lane – which is a new approach for Denver. Appropriately enough, things blocking the bike lane was the number one complaint among cyclists who noted the Wynkoop lane as a problem spot.

Also, the new lane protection comes with a new configuration for the street. This too has the potential to address something Denverite has noted — it’s confusing trying to pick someone up in front of Union Station.

Here’s what the finished product will look like:

The new configuration for Wynkoop from 16th to 18th Streets. (Denver Government)

The new configuration for Wynkoop from 16th to 18th Streets. (Denver Government)

In slightly less exciting news, it should further be noted that the southern side of the bike lane, (traveling the other way, across the street from Union Station), will get a new green striping.

Construction should take a few weeks, according to Denver Public Works. They recommend people use public transportation to get to Union Station, and bikes “should also be prepared to share the outermost travel lane with drivers and are encouraged to use alternate routes.”

Weird times

Denverite is powered by you. In these weird times, the local vigilance, the local context, the local flavor — it’s powered through your donations. If you’d miss Denverite if it disappeared tomorrow, donate today.

You’re our superpower

Denverite supporters have made the decision to financially support local journalism that matters to you. Ready to tell your networks why? Sharing our “About” page with your own personal comments could really help us out.

You’re our superpower

Denverite members have made the decision to financially support local journalism that matters to you. Ready to tell your networks why? Sharing our “About” page with your own personal comments could really help us out.