Bicycle transportation in the U.S.

The pedal-driven, human-powered vehicle we know as the bicycle was invented in the 19th century. In many parts of the world today, bicycles are the main means of transport, and throughout the world they are important for use as recreational vehicles. Bicycles provide an economical, energy-efficient, low-emissions means of transporting people and cargo. For almost a century, however, the automobile has dominated non-motorized travel in developed countries. The bicycle has been regaining popularity in developed countries because of its appeal as a soft, energy-efficient mode of travel, and because of the exercise value it brings. Yet integrating bicycle traffic with automobile traffic involves a complex mix of city planning and road planning and design. European countries have been making significant advances in bicycle transportation over several decades, and now the U.S. is starting to catch up, with progress of its own. In this segment of The Infrastructure Show podcast series, Host Joseph Schofer of Northwestern University's Infrastructure Technology Institute and Co-Host Tom Herman of Vocalo.or 89.5 FM talk with Gabe Rousseau, Manager of the Federal Highway Administration's Bicycle and Pedestrian Program. For more information, see the web-site: www.theinfrastructureshow.com