This article describes the author's experiences in reducing her driving after moving to Davis, California, in the context of planning efforts to induce people to use alternatives to cars. The backdrop is the trend that Americans are driving more, partly because they seem to enjoy driving for its own sake. One study shows that in one city as much as half of the driving trips associated with grocery shopping are made out of choice, not necessity, termed "excess driving." By making it easier for "necessary" driving to be replaced by other forms of travel, planners can reduce car dependence. Davis has instituted numerous initiatives to make the bus, bicycles and walking attractive options through extensive trails, a well-designed bus system and locating services in neighborhoods rather than segregating land uses. The author finds the most promise in policies that make it easier for people to choose not to drive and make it less attractive to drive solely by choice.
Abstract