Chicago's first protected bike lane completed

CHICAGO — It's a milestone for Chicago bike enthusiasts.

Chicago's Department of Transportation says the city's first protected bike lane has been completed on the city's near northwest side, not far from downtown. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Monday.

The lane is one that separates bike riders from vehicles. It's called a cycle track and is being tested on a half-mile stretch. Flexible posts are being used to separate bikers from traffic.

Transportation department spokesman Brian Steele tells The Chicago Tribune that the cost of the project is about $140,000.

Plans are in the works for another test site on the city's South Side.