People—on bikes, in cars, and on foot—should be able to agree that bike lanes are better for everyone.
Pulitzer Prize-winning architecture critic Inga Saffron has penned a detailed argument in favor of bike lanes.
Saffron's reason to support bike lanes are seven, and they benefit all users of the street—motorists, bike riders, and pedestrians. Here are the seven items on the list, with lots more evidence to back up these claims, written in prize-winning form:
- Safety increases when everyone knows their place.
- Bike lanes reduce automobile congestion.
- Bike lanes are a traffic-calming tool.
- Bicycles are better for the environment.
- Bicycling is good for your health.
- Bike lanes help buffer pedestrians from speeding cars.
- Bike lanes are not just for bikes.
Bike commuters won't like that last point on the list (Flickr user Phila. Bikes has a whole gallery devoted to UPS trucks parked in bike lanes, for instance), but still, it's rare to see a columnist of a major daily newspaper arguing in support of bike infrastructure, though this is the second time this week.
FULL STORY: Seven ways that bike lanes benefit motorists and pedestrians
Philly Council Wants to Crack Down on Bike Lane Parking
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Philadelphia Could Start Citing Drivers for Blocking Bike Lanes
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Philly Road Safety Advocates Call for Action From the City
Mayor Parker’s administration is proposing massive cuts to the city’s Vision Zero program while pedestrian and cyclist deaths remain high.
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Americans May Be Stuck — But Why?
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Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.
Greening Oakland’s School Grounds
With help from community partners like the Trust for Public Land, Oakland Unified School District is turning barren, asphalt-covered schoolyards into vibrant, green spaces that support outdoor learning, play, and student well-being.
California Governor Suspends CEQA Reviews for Utilities in Fire Areas
Utility restoration efforts in areas affected by the January wildfires in Los Angeles will be exempt from environmental regulations to speed up the rebuilding of essential infrastructure.
Native American Communities Prepare to Lead on Environmental Stewardship
In the face of federal threats to public lands and conservation efforts, indigenous groups continue to model nature-centered conservation efforts.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
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Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
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