Advocating for Better Bike Infrastructure in St. Louis

St. Louis has made real progress on bike infrastructure, but the city still lags peer regions in protected lanes and connected networks. Advocacy is how that changes. Here's how St. Louis cyclists can push for safer streets and better bike infrastructure.

The Current State of St. Louis Bike Infrastructure

The city has a growing network of greenways and on-street bike lanes, but protected lanes remain limited and key gaps break up otherwise usable routes. Trailnet and local advocates have pushed for connected, protected corridors, with some success on greenway connectors and downtown segments.

Why Protected Infrastructure Matters

Painted lanes on busy streets don't get hesitant riders onto bikes. Protected lanes, traffic-calmed neighborhood streets, and connected greenways do. Cities that invest in low-stress networks see big increases in everyday cycling, commuting, and tourism.

How to Advocate

Show up to public meetings on transportation projects and speak up for bike accommodations. Comment on city plans during their public input periods. Join Trailnet, the region's leading active-transportation advocate, and support their campaigns with your membership and your voice.

Contact Your Representatives

City aldermen and county officials respond to constituents. A short email or call in support of a specific project — a greenway extension, a protected lane on a key street — carries more weight than you'd think, especially when many voices join in.

Support Local Advocacy Organizations

Beyond Trailnet, local bike clubs and neighborhood associations often work on bike issues. Your membership, donations, and volunteer time fund the staff and campaigns that win infrastructure improvements.

Be a Visible, Predictable Rider

Every safe, visible cyclist on St. Louis streets normalizes biking and makes the case for better infrastructure. Predictable riding, lights at night, and courtesy all shift the culture toward one that supports more and better bike facilities.

Better St. Louis bike infrastructure is winnable, but only if cyclists show up, speak up, and support the organizations doing the work.