VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Bicyclists have a new and safer place to ride in Virginia Beach. Mayor Will Sessoms helped cut the ribbon to open the new Shore Drive Bike Lane.

It’s part of the city’s  Bikeways and Trails plan and cost the city $1.4-million to build. The new 3.5 mile bike lane runs along the eastbound side of Shore Drive from Kendall Street to 83rd street near the Fort Story entrance.

Vehicles hit several bikers along this stretch of road in the past and bicyclists are happy with the new safe lane to ride.

“There’s certainly no place to ride around here where I feel safe and comfortable. I certainly don’t use Shore Drive. I use this path right here, but it will be great to get the road bike out and come on down Shore Drive,” said biker Jim Royall.

The  Virginia Bicycling Federation presented Mayor Sessoms a check for $10-thousand to support the safety education and awareness program.