Bike Infrastructure
Bike Infrastructure
Increasing opportunities for residents to bike can have both economic and health benefits. One study estimated that the combined effects of all bicycling-related activities could be as large as $133 billion nationally [1]. Communities who have really prioritized cycling have seen some of the greatest benefits. For example, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail increased property values near the trail by $1 billion [2]. Beyond the economic benefits of increased cycling, it can also provide health benefits. Adding physical activity to your daily life is better for health, and cycling is one way to get more active [3]. Giving people access to bike lanes and trails can increase cycling and allow communities to gain the associated health benefits of cycling [4]. People who bike to work are healthier and more productive, and we see these benefits through a reduction in sick days and healthcare costs for bike commuters. Local leaders have an opportunity to make these benefits available in their communities. So, whether you are talking about the economic or physical health of communities – increasing bike infrastructure is a way to do it and do it well. Investing in bicycle infrastructure can pay off for your community.
Implementation Strategies
+ Bike Lanes
Bike lanes provide a dedicated space for cyclists to get to and from their destination, making biking a safer, easier choice for commuters.
- Bike lanes can increase active transportation, i.e. modes of transportation that aren’t driving. This in turn can increase physical activity. Bike lanes can also reduce cycling associated injuries [7].
- Building infrastructure for safer bicycling is one way to promote physical activity [8].
- City planners should consider bike lanes as a strategy to increase physical activity [8].
Resources:
+ Traffic Calming
Traffic calming measures slow the speed of traffic. Strategies can include speed humps, pedestrian crossing islands, and roundabouts. They can be implemented independently or as part of a larger plan.
- Traffic calming can increase pedestrian and cyclist safety and increase active transportation.
- Traffic calming policies have been implemented in urban, suburban, and rural areas so these strategies could be implemented in communities across the country {8].
Resources:
+ General Resources for Bike Infrastructure
REFERENCES
[1] Bicycling Means Business: The Economic Benefits of Bicycle Infrastructure
[2] 10 Ways Bicycle-Friendly Streets Are Good for People Who Don't Ride Bikes
[3] 7 Reasons to Fund Bicycle Infrastructure
[4] Analysis: Cities with More Walkers, Bike Commuters are Less Obese
[5] WWFH: Bicycle paths, lanes & tracks
[6] Bike Lanes Increase Cycling