Update

FHWA Removes Bike Lanes and Speed Cameras from Key Safety Measures List

The Federal Highway Administration has quietly removed bike lanes and speed cameras from its list of recommended safety measures, a move that has drawn scrutiny from cycling advocates and lawmakers.

Update Published 17 July 2026 3 min read Priya Hart

Cycling and Walking Street Safety Transit Reliability Urbanism

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Federal Highway Administration Reassesses Safety Measures

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has removed bicycle lanes and speed cameras from its list of recommended safety measures, a decision that has not been publicly announced or explained by the agency. This action has led to questions from members of Congress and concern from urban planning and cycling advocacy groups who view these measures as crucial for improving road safety.

The FHWA’s list, often referred to as the “Strategic Highway Safety Plan” or similar guidance documents, typically outlines proven safety countermeasures. The removal of bike lanes and speed cameras suggests a shift in the agency’s approach to traffic safety, potentially impacting how these safety features are implemented and funded across the United States.

Congressional Scrutiny

At least one member of Congress has formally requested an explanation from the FHWA regarding the rationale behind these removals. The specific rationale and the extent of congressional inquiry remain unclear, but the move indicates a level of concern from lawmakers about the agency’s safety policy decisions. This congressional interest highlights the political sensitivity surrounding road safety initiatives and the tools used to achieve them.

Impact on Urban Planning and Safety

Bike lanes are widely recognized as a critical component of sustainable urban transportation, encouraging cycling by providing dedicated and safer space for riders. Their removal from a list of recommended safety measures could be interpreted as a de-emphasis on active transportation safety. Similarly, speed cameras are employed in many jurisdictions to reduce speeding, a significant factor in traffic fatalities and serious injuries.

Urban planners and safety advocates often rely on guidance from federal agencies like the FHWA to inform local policy and infrastructure investments. The absence of these measures from the FHWA’s recommendations may lead to confusion or create obstacles for cities seeking to implement or expand similar safety programs. The decision could also influence funding opportunities and the prioritization of safety projects at the state and local levels.

The lack of a public announcement or detailed explanation from the FHWA is a point of contention. Transparency in safety policy is crucial for building public trust and ensuring that decisions are based on sound evidence and a comprehensive understanding of their potential impacts. Without clear reasoning, it is difficult to assess whether this change reflects new research findings, a shift in safety philosophy, or other considerations.

Future Implications and Public Response

The long-term implications of this decision for road safety in urban areas remain to be seen. Advocates are likely to continue pushing for the inclusion and expansion of bike lanes and speed cameras, emphasizing their proven benefits in reducing collisions and improving the safety of vulnerable road users. The ongoing dialogue between Congress, the FHWA, and advocacy groups will be important in shaping future transportation safety policies.

Source: Smart Cities Dive, https://www.smartcitiesdive.com/news/fhwa-removes-bike-lanes-speed-cameras-safety-measures-list/825538/