Skip to Content
Streetsblog USA home
Streetsblog USA home
Log In
Streetsblog.net

In Copenhagen, Motoring on Cyclists’ Terms

Today on the Network, Copenhagenize takes a look at a proposal that shakes up the traditional "complete street" concept.

false

As presented in a municipal "idea catalogue," the plan is to redesign Copenhagen's Vestergade as a "bicycle street," where cyclists and pedestrians come first, and motor vehicle traffic is the second-tier mode.

The entire road will be turned into a bi-directional cycle path, with pedestrian paths on either end and flex parking for deliveries and bicycle parking. The street will remain a one direction street for cars, but their speed limit will be reduced to that of a bicycle's. Something that means bicycles are given the home team advantage. The document reads: "motoring allowed on bicycles' terms." Other road sections would be blocked for car traffic altogether, which is a wonderful improvement in roads that already are heavily bike dominated.

"In the world of urban cycling," writes Kristen Maddox, "there are contra-lanes ... and then there are contra-lanes." Indeed.

Elsewhere today: The Missouri Bicycle and Pedestrian Federation marks the one-year anniversary of Kansas City bike-share. N8than questions how it could be that striking 13 cyclists at one time, as a motorist did in Arkansas this week, is not necessarily considered a crime. And Quickrelease.TV says the UK Department for Transport is hopelessly auto-centric.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog USA

Friday Video: Are We All Living in a ‘Carspiracy’?

How does "car-brain" shape the way we think about the world — even in relatively bike-friendly countries like the U.K.?

July 26, 2024

Friday’s Headlines Share and Share Alike

Bikeshares, and e-bikes and scooters generally, are becoming more popular. That's led to more injuries, highlighting the need for better infrastructure.

July 26, 2024

What the Heck is Going on With the California E-Bike Incentive Program?

The program's launch has been delayed for two years, and currently "there is no specific timeline" for it. Plus the administrator, Pedal Ahead, is getting dragged, but details are vague.

July 26, 2024

Talking Headways Podcast: Have Cities Run Out of Land?

Chris Redfearn of USC and Anthony Orlando of Cal Poly Pomona on why "pro-business" Texas housing markets are catching up to "pro-regulation" California and what it might mean for future city growth.

July 25, 2024

The Paris Plan for Olympic Traffic? Build More Bike Lanes

A push to make Paris fully bikable for the Olympics is already paying dividends long before the opening ceremonies.

July 25, 2024
See all posts