Spandex-clad MTA Chair Janno Lieber was amongst the first to cruise down the newly unveiled bike and pedestrian paths on the Triborough Bridge, now officially known as the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge. The upgrade provides a vehicular-free link between Manhattan, the Bronx, and Randall's Island. According to a Gothamist report, these paths have replaced former pedestrian-only routes, which posed challenges for cyclists due to narrow turns.
The MTA's commitment to a more cycle-friendly city is showcased by an ambitious $128 million investment in non-motorist infrastructure across its bridges. This initiative, reported by New York Post, is expected to extend into Queens by 2027, paving the way for a seamless, ADA-compliant bike and pedestrian path from Astoria to Randall’s Island.
MTA's construction chief Jamie Torres-Springer highlighted the significance of the new paths, saying, “For the first time ever, pedestrians and cyclists have a continuous car-free path between Manhattan, the Bronx and Randall's Island, with Queens to follow shortly,” as per Gothamist. In line with these developments, the MTA has also indicated a potential addition of bike lanes to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, albeit as part of a more long-term overhaul of the lower span.
In addition to its work on the bridges, the MTA is focusing on the East River Greenway in East Harlem, where a new ramp is planned to connect with an improved bike lane network following the completion of current renovations. These efforts aim to support the increasing use of micromobility options and expand transit access in areas with limited fixed rail service. As Lieber told Gothamist, “ If you can walk, if you can bike, if you can scooter the last mile rather than having to drive a an automobile and park, that is huge.”
