Meijer, Mathijs (2024) Pathway to Progress? Master thesis.
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Abstract
Embracing cycling as a sustainable alternative to motorized vehicle use offers manifold benefits. The concept of bicycle highways offer a solution in encouraging cyclists to cycle further distances due to its infrastructural design and ability to ride faster. In particular, bicycle highways are gaining popularity in urban areas due to their ability to reduce traffic congestion, noise, and air pollution. However, extending this infrastructure beyond urban boundaries involves unique challenges. The primary goal of this study is to discover the benefits of the nearly 30-kilometer-long bicycle highway between Assen and Groningen for commuters. It employed a mixed-method approach, including spatial analysis through ArcGIS, literature reviews, and interviews with users of the bicycle highway. Initial findings suggest that the bicycle highway may not drastically reduce travel times and distances in most regions of the study area but enhance the overall cycle experience through improved safety and comfort. Moreover, respondents indicated that the bicycle highway provides multiple benefits compared to other cycle infrastructure; however, the infrastructure didn’t influence their decision to start cycling. Furthermore, based on ODiN data, it became apparent that commuters cycled more frequently in the study area. This research contributes to a better understanding of bicycle highways predominantly located beyond urban boundaries. Therefore, this study may serve as a model for other areas considering similar projects, illustrating the challenges and benefits of implementing bicycle highways in less densely populated areas.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Master) |
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| Degree programme: | Society, Sustainability and Planning (MSc Socio-spatial Planning) |
| Supervisor: | Bahrami, F. |
| Date Deposited: | 21 Aug 2024 13:45 |
| Last Modified: | 21 Aug 2024 13:45 |
| URI: | https://frw.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/4716 |
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