Increasing cycling as a commute mode in Metro Vancouver

This study investigates why some Metro Vancouver residents cycle to work more often than others using regression analysis of approximately 1600 surveys from the 2006 Cycling in Cities study. Regression results indicate cyclists tend to be male, have a university education, live in the City of Vancouver, have fewer vehicles per household, have household incomes between $60,000-$90,000 and live closer to their place of work. From these results the study evaluates a range of policies aimed at encouraging those not currently cycling to work to become cycling commuters. Policy options are assessed on the basis of cost, effectiveness, administrative feasibility, and public acceptability. This study recommends TransLink’s Mayor’s Council work to increase bike racks on buses, increase Bike and Ride facilities at transit stations, and introduce a vehicle levy.