A physically separated bike lane in New York City

We’re about a month late in posting this, but better late than never. This episode of The Diane Rehm Show is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of cities especially from a transportation perspective. It’s a real treat to hear former Mayor of Pittsburgh, Tom Murphy, on the same panel as Jan Gehl of Gehl Architects, who is seen as one of the preeminent experts on the subject of livable cities, along with our friend Barbara McCann from National Complete Streets Coalition.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with Pittsburgh’s history and Mayor Murphy, just know that he was integral in forming the vision for a riverfront trail system dating back to 1990 when he was a State Representative. After he took office as Mayor of Pittsburgh in 1994, he started implementing this vision. The trail network, now known as the Three Rivers Heritage Trail, has since seen vast improvement and expansion at the hands of our colleagues at Friends of the Riverfront and Riverlife.

Whether you prefer to use recreational trails or want to see vast networks of on-street bike lanes (physically separated or otherwise), one thing is for certain, facilities that enhance the walkability and bikeability of cities make vast economic sense. These types of facilities are “placemakers” in that they attract people to live near them. They promote healthy, active lifestyles. They enhance a city’s commitment to environmental sustainability. They are critical to reducing dependence on foreign oil. Last but not least, they save people money by helping them get around without using a car. And this money, unlike money spent on cars and gas, stays local.

Without further ado, please enjoy…

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