This study aims to document the lessons from social participation in building bike lanes in a city in the developing world, Mexico City. We compare two cycling infrastructure projects, one successful and the other halted. We find five elements related to social participation that hinder or facilitate the project's survival: First, the moment to inform is essential: it is better to disclose during the planning phase than during the construction phase. Second, the type of information shared will have a different impact on the community. Third, the tactic of approaching the community is of crucial importance; the strategy must include professionals with experience in social participation. Fourth, the flexibility of the project to respond to the community's needs contributes to its acceptance. Fifth, the methodology to share the project may contribute to or hinder the acceptability of this or upcoming infrastructure projects.