In November, the Boston Transportation Department presented three concept designs for redesigning Tremont St. Out of the three, we prefer concept one because, as the only option to include protected bike lanes, it makes the most significant safety improvements for people biking and walking. By implementing a road diet (a reduction in vehicle travel lanes) and using car parking as a buffer between bikes and traffic, this plan would also result in a net loss of only four parking spaces. (You can learn more about Concept 1 and why we support it here.)

We’re not alone in thinking a plan with protected bike lanes is a clear winner. Throughout the redesign process, we’ve met with many stakeholders to better understand their needs and inform our thinking. We surveyed and spoke with many businesses in the area to discuss their concerns around transportation, access, parking, deliveries and more — and in these conversations we heard a lot of support for protected bike lanes.

In January, 10 of those businesses co-signed a letter in favor of protected bike lanes on Tremont St. that we sent to the Boston Transportation Department. We urge the BTD to consider this community feedback when picking the final design.

We hope that more businesses along Tremont St., and throughout the region, band together in favor of better bike lanes. Studies show it could be in their financial interest to do so; better bike infrastructure is linked to a whole host of economic benefits, from higher property values to increased spending at local businesses.

For now though, we want to thank the following businesses and individuals for their support. Better bike lanes mean better communities, so please join us in applauding those stepping up for a safer, stronger Tremont St.

Community Bike Supply
496 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116
Philip Coombs, Co-Owner and Sales 

Spectacle
505 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116
Paul Fox, Owner

Picco
513 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116?
Mark Tikonoff, Manager (On Behalf of Ownership)

Frenchie Wine Bistro
560 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Karine Leleu, General Manager

Wine Emporium
607 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Alex Peters, Liquor Buyer

Pressed
643 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Paulina Wagner, Manager

Heartbreak Hill Running Company
652 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Emma Locke, Manager

Fomu
655 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Diana Jeronimo, Retail/Store Manager

Upper Crust Pizzeria
683 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Cameron, Assistant Manager

Local Lock and Key
1027 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02120
Hung Le, Owner