Encinitas Bike Lane Battle | San Diego News

Encinitas City Council votes to scrap a $4 million protected bike lane on Santa Fe Drive — funded largely by state money secured by Senator Catherine Blakespear — citing traffic and safety concerns, but critics argue the physical separation is crucial for cyclist safety, especially for kids and seniors. The state’s budget bill includes a five-year freeze on changes to the lane, with penalties for future removals. Mayor Bruce Ehlers pushes for simpler buffered lanes, while advocates like Aaron Hebshi from Strong Towns Encinitas say concrete barriers are the only real solution. The city now seeks Governor Gavin Newsom’s veto of the restrictive clause — a decision that could set a precedent for bike infrastructure across San Diego County and beyond. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/78a7f033ed6cefe1