Cambridge Bicycle Safety Endorses Candidates for 2025 City Council Election

Cambridge Bicycle Safety Endorses 2025 City Council Candidates

Cambridge Bicycle Safety (CBS), an organization dedicated to improving street safety for cyclists and pedestrians, has made a significant announcement regarding the upcoming City Council elections. On September 4, 2025, CBS declared its endorsements for 12 candidates, all committed to a crucial goal: completing the city’s separated bike lane network. This key project aligns with CBS’s top priority - the Cycling Safety Ordinance (CSO) network, which is scheduled for completion by November 2026.

The journey to this endorsement has not been without challenges. Back in spring 2024, a narrow majority of the Cambridge City Council voted to postpone the installation of essential safety infrastructure, particularly separated bike lanes, by an alarming 18 months. This decision proved tragic as, shortly thereafter, three individuals lost their lives while biking on city streets. Although the council eventually reversed its decision to delay, the repercussions were felt immediately, with many safety projects pushed back by at least a year. This incident highlighted the dire urgency for proactive city council representation that supports critical safety measures.

As residents head to the polls on November 4, 2025, the significance of choosing a council that prioritizes the safety of all citizens cannot be overstated. CBS actively encourages voters to consider those candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to the completion of essential bike infrastructure.

In a questionnaire distributed by CBS, all endorsed candidates pledged to meet the November 2026 deadline for the bike lane network. Impressively, nearly two-thirds of the candidates running this year responded affirmatively, showcasing a compelling agreement on the importance of this life-saving project. During the last election, more than 60% of voters cast their ballots in favor of candidates aligned with CBS’s vision.

CBS has categorized its endorsed candidates into 'Bike Champions' and 'Bike Supporters.' The seven 'Bike Champions' include incumbents Burhan Azeem, Marc McGovern, Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler, and Sumbul Siddiqui, along with newcomers Ayah Al-Zubi, Dana Ray Bullister, and Ned Melanson. These candidates not only pledged to complete the bike network promptly but also provided strong responses regarding other transportation-related issues. The incumbents boasted a perfect voting record on bike safety initiatives, solidifying their reputation as leaders in promoting safe cycling.

Moreover, CBS’s advocacy extends beyond just ensuring the completion of the bike lane network. The organization also aims to redesign high-crash intersections, utilizing proven safety measures, and transforming neighborhood streets into peaceful, low-traffic environments that prioritize residents over through traffic.

Voting registration for this pivotal election closes on October 25, 2025, with early voting commencing on the same day. Residents wishing to participate in mail-in voting must request their ballots by October 28. For more details about CBS’s endorsements and the full responses from the candidates, residents can visit CBS’s website or the city’s election portal.

In summary, the Cambridge Bicycle Safety initiative plays a crucial role in advocating for effective and necessary changes in urban planning. With growing support from candidates and the community, there is hope for a safer and more bike-friendly Cambridge. The upcoming election marks a critical juncture for ensuring that cycling and pedestrian safety remain a priority in the city’s future urban development plans.