I used to bike on New Jersey as well when it didn't have bike lanes, which always frustrated and frightened me. The new protected bike lanes ensure that I stay off the sidewalk for pedestrians and make me feel a million times safer. I'm so excited.

When I first moved to DC three years ago, I was shocked at how aggressive drivers were (speeding up when they see you in a crosswalk...etc), but I regularly see cars now running through red lights, making right hand turns without even looking up (even when the wall light is on for pedestrians!). I want to say it's stupidity but I feel it's entitlement and believing they're the most important person on the road. As a result, everyone must simply adapt around them.