Across Vermont, as elsewhere in the country, an upsurge of interest in bicycling — not only as a form of recreation but as a way to commute — is underway. Last month the Agency of Transportation announced funding for 28 Vermont communities to enhance their streets for pedestrians and bikes.
Highlights:
- The younger population is choosing not to drive as much … we’re seeing more people living in cities younger so when they see they don’t need to own a car, which comes with a lot of costs, I think you’re seeing that transition into a desire for more biking and walking.
- There is a big increase in interest in a federal program which provides money for 80 percent of the total cost of a proposed project. The state and municipality each kick in ten percent.
- The newly designed roadways will be a boost for the downtown areas and takes note of increased numbers of bicyclists. It will make it safer for both bikers and motorists.
- Take a stretch of road designed for cars, and turn the entire stretch into a corridor for people that walk, bike and drive. It has all the criteria we were looking for.
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