{"id":43935,"date":"2024-01-25T20:20:14","date_gmt":"2024-01-26T04:20:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/?p=43935"},"modified":"2024-01-27T18:54:35","modified_gmt":"2024-01-28T02:54:35","slug":"benefits-of-bicycle-friendly-cities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/benefits-of-bicycle-friendly-cities\/","title":{"rendered":"Benefits of Bicycle Friendly Cities"},"content":{"rendered":"

There are many reasons why cities and towns should invest in cycling infrastructure. From economic advantages to creating healthier citizens, the benefits cannot be ignored. The good news is that many more cities are installing infrastructure to encourage cycling for everyday transportation. The following are some of the best reasons why the investments in cycling infrastructure will pay off.<\/p>\n

Economic Impacts<\/h2>\n

Bicycling is big business. In fact, according to a report from the Outdoor Industry Foundation, bicycling adds nearly $133 billion to the U.S. economy on an annual basis. Studies also show that the bicycle industry creates jobs in the tourism industry.<\/p>\n

Benefits for Cities<\/h2>\n

Cities that encourage cycling may also see an improvement in the local economy. Cycling can bring in new businesses such as bike retail stores, rental shops, and more, giving communities a needed boost. Existing businesses have also seen an increase in revenues when bike lanes are installed on their streets.<\/p>\n

Many studies from cities in the US, Canada, UK and Australia have found that\u00a0people on bikes tend to shop more frequently and often spend more money\u00a0at local businesses than people traveling by car.<\/p>\n

For example, the City of Vancouver in Canada has invested heavily in cycling infrastructure over the last twenty years. Some local business people were initially opposed, but changed their minds as they saw improvements in business. Charles Gauthier, President and CEO of the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association (DVBIA), said:<\/p>\n

\u201cMore people than ever before are walking or\u00a0cycling to stores, restaurants and cafes, and that\u2019s helping move people more efficiently through the city, creating a vibrant local economy, as well as attracting talent and innovation.\u201d<\/p>\n

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