Evaluating Madison From Two Wheels

Abstract

Bicycling is not only a childish pastime, but also an activity that can help the environment, both built and natural, while promoting equality and community among its residents. This study determines the bike-friendliness of downtown Madison, Wisconsin and how it influences the city?s overall livability. Our research analyzes the ways in which a city can be made bike-friendly through the use of policy, advocacy, and infrastructure. It also examines different issues that urban cyclists encounter. These not only encompass demographic concerns regarding gender, race, ethnicity, and economic standing, but also utilitarian problems, such as convenience, accessibility, and safety. Through cyclist surveys, interviews with key leaders in bicycle advocacy and urban design, and the construction of a map, which outlines city features that are conducive to cycling, we confirm that Madison is a bike friendly city. However, there is room for improvement. Cyclists give Madison high ratings for bike friendliness and their overall safety. These ratings can increase with further developments in bike policy and infrastructure.