On Car-free Day, 22 September, cycling advocates call for an end to car dependency
News release from Cycling Action Network, September 2023
As record fuel prices put pressure on household budgets, cycling advocates are calling for better solutions.
We must end car dependency, said Cycling Action Network spokesperson, Patrick Morgan.
“Decades of poor transport and city planning have trapped New Zealanders into car dependence.”
High fuel bills are unaffordable, but there are better options, he said.
“The truth is that most people drive not because they like it, but because it's their only option. To break the cycle of car dependence, cities must offer better choices that don't drain the household budget. They must run frequent and affordable public transport, and build networks of protected bike lanes.”
Ending suburban sprawl is also needed, he said. “Building up, and not out, means more journeys can be made by bus, on foot and bike.”
“This is not about blaming people for their choices. People are trapped in a system that denies them choices. The solution is for cities to offer options that are cheaper and better for everyone in our community.”
Mr Morgan says Wellington's rapid construction of bike lanes is a model for other New Zealand cities. There has been a 93 percent increase in cyclists passing the Basin Reserve following the installation of a two-lane cycle route.
“Build it, and they will come.”
References
World Car Free Day, September 22, is a movement that began in 2000, after decades of action by different organisations internationally. It brings communities together to consider ditching the car when they can.
https://genless.govt.nz/world-carfree-day/
New Zealanders stuck in a 'car dependency cycle' as fuel likely to rise to record-breaking prices (Stuff, 19 Sept 2023) with comments from AUT Professor Ben Wooliscroft <ben.wooliscroft@aut.ac.nz>
There has been a 93 percent increase in cyclists passing the Basin Reserve following the installation of a two-lane cycle route connecting the northern end of Adelaide Rd with Waitangi Park, in Wellington. (The Post, 7 Sept 2023)
https://www.thepost.co.nz/a/nz-news/350068349/big-increase-cyclists-pass...