The impact of cycling infrastructure on mobility and urban development
Recent research by the Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis (CPB) provides new insights into the effects of cycling infrastructure on commuting, traffic flows and urban development. This article explores the findings and their wider implications for urban policy and mobility.
Cycling infrastructure and commuters
The CPB research shows that the proportion of commuters cycling to work has risen to 25%. This is partly due to the construction of segregated cycle paths, which provide a safer and more attractive cycling environment. The development affects not only travel behaviour but also housing choices: average commuting distances have fallen by 6%, contributing to more compact urban structures and more efficient transport networks.
Well-maintained, continuous cycling routes also lower the barriers to choosing the bicycle as a primary means of transport. Employers are responding by providing better cycling facilities, such as bicycle storage and e-bike charging points. Infrastructure combined with supporting measures makes cycling more attractive to commuters.
The influence of electric bicycles on travel behaviour
The rise of electric bicycles has further increased cycling. Higher speeds and longer ranges make e-bikes an attractive alternative to cars, particularly for medium-distance commutes. This could further reduce car use in cities, lowering demand for parking and car-related infrastructure.
Data also show that e-bikes are particularly popular among people aged 35–65, a group previously less inclined to cycle. This increases cycling's potential as a widely accepted mode of transport and offers policymakers new opportunities to tailor cycling infrastructure to different user groups.
The consequences of removing cycling infrastructure
The CPB investigated what happens when segregated cycle paths are removed and cycling becomes less attractive:
- Commuting distances increase by 30%, as more commuters choose to live further from work.
- Average journey times rise by 14%, directly affecting everyday mobility.
- Congestion increases as more people return to using cars.
- The overall welfare of workers falls by 6% because of longer journey times and higher transport costs.
The figures show that simply removing cycling infrastructure does more than reduce cycling: it also harms the wider urban economy. Employers face less productive staff because of longer commutes, while urban areas become less attractive as congestion and air pollution increase.
Cycling and the future of urban mobility
The concept of the 15-minute city, where all essential amenities can be reached within a quarter of an hour, is increasingly cited as a model for sustainable urban development. The CPB research confirms that investment in cycling infrastructure can make an important contribution. Well-designed cycling routes help make cities more compact and liveable, with less dependence on cars and more space for other urban uses.
Cities already pursuing cycling-focused mobility policies have also been shown to encourage more economic activity around local amenities. Less car traffic makes public space more attractive, benefiting shops, hospitality and recreation.
Conclusion
The CPB findings underline the importance of well-designed cycling infrastructure policy. It encourages cycling and also benefits spatial planning, traffic flows and urban economies. Incorporating this knowledge into policy and planning can help cities prepare for future mobility challenges.
Combining infrastructure, policy measures and innovation in cycling can lead to a shift towards sustainable, efficient urban mobility. With cycling growing in popularity as an alternative to the car, now is the time to support and strengthen this trend.
📄 Read the full CPB report here: Cycling cities: Mode choice, car congestion, and urban structure
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