POTENTIAL OF PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE TRAFFIC IN SWEDEN

In the fifties, five times as many people cycled, and in Holland pedestrian and cycle traffic is double that in Sweden. According to theoretical calculations, pedestrian and cycle traffic can increase by 30-75 percent if all trips shorter than 3 and 5 km are made on foot or by cycle. For this to happen a well signposted, lit and contiguous pedestrian and cycle network, maintained throughout the year and with good bicycle parking facilities, must be provided. Having a network alone will not significantly change modal choice; this requires emphasis on pedestrian and cycle traffic and restrictions on cars. Municipalities and Road Administrations should appoint people to be responsible for pedestrian and cycle traffic and train traffic planners and operational staff. Information on environmental benefits must be given in schools. In towns, pedestrians and cyclists must be given absolute priority. In central areas, traffic lights must be green all the time for pedestrians and cyclists. Car parking must be prohibited except where specifically permitted. Physical planning must encourage pedestrian and cycle traffic as far as possible. Local services, shops, work and recreation must be provided. What is needed are special cycle routes along heavily trafficked roads, regional cycle networks, information on macro economic costs of cars and benefits of pedestrian and cycle traffic.