Pedal Power Comes to Jefferson Park: CDOT Proposes New Bike Lanes and Neighborhood Greenways on the Northwest Side

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Jefferson Park · February 19, 2026

Jefferson Park cyclists and families rejoice — the Chicago Department of Transportation has unveiled a proposal to bring new bike lanes and neighborhood greenways to streets throughout Jefferson Park and Portage Park. The plan targets an area roughly bounded by Laramie Avenue on the east, Gunnison Street on the north, Nagle/Narragansett Avenue on the west, and Addison Street on the south, with connections to existing bike infrastructure already in place across the Northwest Side.

The proposed network spans primarily the 30th, 38th, and 45th wards, with a small section touching the 41st Ward near Lawrence and Melvina avenues. According to CDOT, the bike network is designed to make cycling safer for families and improve accessibility to local destinations. Greenway designs will vary block by block, taking into account traffic flow and street width. 45th Ward Alderman Nicholas Sposato has said he'll reserve judgment until after a community input meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 5, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Portage Park Senior Center, 4150 N. Long Ave.

Jefferson Park residents who want a say in how these new lanes take shape are encouraged to attend the March 5 meeting, fill out the project survey, or watch the CDOT explainer video — all available at chicago.gov/portagepark. This is your neighborhood, and your voice matters!

Sources:
1. https://nadignewspapers.com/new-bike-lanes-greenways-proposed-for-jefferson-park-portage-park-on-chicagos-nw-side/