This paper gives the history of provisions for cyclists in Chicago, USA, during recent decades, and outlines Chicago's Bike 2000 Plan. Many miles of cycle routes were developed in Chicago from 1971 on, and a comprehensive urban cycleway system had been established by 1975. However, during the 1980s, the use of bicycles declined, and there was little programme activity. Then this trend began to reverse. In 1990, a multi-agency Chicago Bicycle Task Force was founded, and, in 1991, the Mayor's Bicycle Advisory Council was formed. This led to immediate cycleway system improvements and actions. In May 1992, the Mayor of Chicago launched the Bike 2000 Plan, the most significant cycling-related document cycling-related document ever produced in Chicago. Its objectives are to make Chicago bicycle-friendly and develop cycling there as a serious transport mode. Its goals include by the year 2000: (1) shifting at least 10% of single-occupancy car trips under five miles to bicycle trips; and (2) 300 miles of cycleways and bicycle-friendly streets. These aims will be achieved by a seven-year implementation plan, now being developed, which will include the following elements: (1) education; (2) encouragement; (3) engineering; (4) enforcement; and (5) a demonstration project.
Samenvatting