Long version : This is a dumb thing to make our “Next Big Infrastructure Project” as its like asking if “rubber band-based propulsion” will be the best goal in making our “Next Big NASA Project.”
There are many reasons as to why, but basically the reasons “bike lanes” would be an inadequate, poorly received, half-assed, politically divisive project boils down primarily to U.S. existing city structure and a lack of planning of the cities around biking in the way that many other countries with embarrassingly far more robust public transportation systems have had for decades now. NotJustBikes explains it best.
Bikes often solve or supplement the last mile problem with connections to transit. Proper bike lanes would be a massive boon to the reach of new and existing public transport.
To say nothing about the large amount of zoning reform and organizing happening in every major city in the US. NY’s plan for example doesn’t just come out of nowhere.
Short version : No.
Long version : This is a dumb thing to make our “Next Big Infrastructure Project” as its like asking if “rubber band-based propulsion” will be the best goal in making our “Next Big NASA Project.”
There are many reasons as to why, but basically the reasons “bike lanes” would be an inadequate, poorly received, half-assed, politically divisive project boils down primarily to U.S. existing city structure and a lack of planning of the cities around biking in the way that many other countries with embarrassingly far more robust public transportation systems have had for decades now. NotJustBikes explains it best.
Bikes often solve or supplement the last mile problem with connections to transit. Proper bike lanes would be a massive boon to the reach of new and existing public transport.
The Biden admin is also looking at federally improving zoning. https://www.usich.gov/news/white-house-announces-new-actions-to-lower-housing-costs-and-boost-supply
To say nothing about the large amount of zoning reform and organizing happening in every major city in the US. NY’s plan for example doesn’t just come out of nowhere.