Bike Lanes Are Good For Business

Did you know, bike lanes are good for business?

While businesses may initially cringe at the thought of losing parking spaces to bike lanes, the long-term benefits are undeniable. Beyond reducing pollution, slowing climate change, and enhancing overall city well-being, bike-friendly streets have a positive impact on commerce. Extensive research spanning four decades consistently demonstrates that streets catering to bikes and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks contribute to increased business prosperity.

Despite concerns about reduced accessibility, studies reveal a common misconception among business owners. They often overestimate the number of customers who rely on cars, overlooking the significant percentage of pedestrians and cyclists. In a 2012 study focusing on a Los Angeles shopping corridor with bike lanes, more than half of the store owners believed most customers drove, when in reality, only 15% did.