Signs of Intelligent Life
One-third of commuters in Copenhagen travel by bicycle, but the government says that's not enough -- the official goal is to eliminate two of every three car trips under two miles. Cycling grew fast in Denmark in the 1970s and 1980s, but has stagnated in the 90s. In part, this is due to the crowding out effect of growing car traffic. Additional traffic calming measures are under consideration to help increase the safety and convenience of urban cycling. Washington Post "Safe Routes to School" programs are being funded by the U.K. Dept. of Transport to boost traffic safety for children and reduce juvenile car dependence. The planning programs offer a combination of traffic calming, upgraded street crossings, pedestrian-oriented intersection improvements, additions to cycle route networks and bike access and parking at schools. Addressing a recent Safe Routes to School Conference in London, U.K. Transport Secretary George Young said children being driven to school account for 16% of car traffic in morning peak periods, and that the incidence of such trips continues to grow. He noted that the trend "can result in a loss of independence for children, as they have less opportunity to develop road sense, they take less exercise, and develop car dependent lifestyles at an early age." Up to Date (ITE)
