Comments on: Cost of pandering to cars

By: Doug

Doug — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 03:33:55 +0000

A study commissioned by the City of Sydney estimated net benefits of $500 million over 30 years and a return of something like $4 for every dollar spent.

http://sydneycycleways.net/the-network/strategy-research/economic-research

By: farfields

farfields — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 05:31:01 +0000

I’m excited to hear any progress that seems to suggest real additional investment in cycling infrastructure. The more regular cyclists there are will result in a virtuous circle of increased investment and tolerance.

I’d also welcome more sharing of the costs and benefits. A rationale case, in addition to the anecdotal benefits, will only help win the argument against the arrogant and ignorant.

By: Cyclomaniac

Cyclomaniac — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 05:09:57 +0000

In reply to Mike. I am not really sure that Christchurch is going downhill. Yep there are still real challenges, certainly in people's personal lives. And have I to admit that Christchurch can still appear (dare I say it) a bit parochial at times but in my opinion it is a much more interesting place than before the quakes. There is GAP Filler, art on the streets, a new vibrant restaurant and brew pub scene, there are exciting ideas like the Avon River Park or the Coastal Path way and many people engage (however not always listened to) in the debate on how to make Christchurch a great place to live in. I was actually pleasantly surprise that almost 60% of people in the poll indicated that they were in favour of a rate increase if that would mean that a serious cycling network could be built. Any rate rise seems to be highly controversial, so I thought it was not a bad score. The poll is hopelessly unscientific of course but again many people expressed their desire for a safe cycling and comprehensive cycling network even if if it means that they will have to pay for it. I am sure ACC can do a very generous first donation towards this network as it would save them heaps of money.

By: Robert

Robert — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 20:07:29 +0000

Perfectly put . You do have to give to to Cr Keown though , he can stimulate a debate like no other . It just seems crazy that despite the obvious benefits so many of the population just don’t yet get it . This is what decades of regular car use does to motorists , they can’t see past the windscreen or the a/c. Judging by the comments in yesterdays press website it is not surprising there is such aggressive driving on our roads . There are some angry people out there , some cyclists are angry because they fear for their lives , and some motorists because their journey is delayed by 30 sec when they have to allow for a cyclist. Crazy

By: Mike

Mike — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 09:15:45 +0000

Your comments seem far too intelligent for a person from this car loving, helmet enforcing nation, are you an expat? As a young person ( technically, but I certainly dont feel it ) who has moved to Munich, Germany to enjoy the very things you mention – pedestrian and cycle friendly with a great rail network, cobbled streets in place of american big box stores I can’t agree more with what you say. I can only see Christchurch going down hill as more and more people want to move elsewhere. My family feels so much safer at home now, walking and bicycling very much kids to school ect ( everyone without helmets, of course ) and as those who value these things leave, the desire for change dies. Good luck and best wishes.

By: Lennyboy

Lennyboy — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 01:40:30 +0000

Hear hear! Mind you, I’m still trying to crunch their numbers because $16 x ~150,000 households x 2 years definitely doesn’t equal $69m! Maybe they meant $16 per PERSON over a 10-year Plan period? That would get us there…