Detroit Becoming Friendlier To Bicyclists

Last Updated: September 24. 2011 6:27PM

More than 40 miles of bike lanes help riders get around

Calvin Men/ The Detroit News

"Ten years ago, Todd Scott knew every bicyclist in Detroit.
"There just weren't that many people out there. If a group went by, you knew all of them," he said. "Nowadays, I go past groups of 30 or 40 people on bikes where I don't know anybody."
Detroiters have shifted gears, as its bicycle commuter population increased by 192 percent from 2000 to 2009, according to a survey by the League of American Bicyclists.
While Detroit's cycling population — estimated at 1,200 commuters — pales in comparison to those in New York and Los Angeles — estimated at 22,000 and 17,000, respectively — a community of two-wheelers thrives.
That community has helped spur construction of a growing network of bike lanes on some of the city's main streets, including Michigan Avenue. Detroit has about 40 miles of lanes, and more are scheduled.
Despite its reputation as the Motor City, many cycling enthusiasts see Detroit as being built for bikes, with flat, wide roads and a relative lack of motor traffic. "
To read more...From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20110924/LIFESTYLE14/109240363/Detroit-becoming-friendlier-to-bicyclists#ixzz1ZARUWv5x