Most European nations have embarked on programs to reduce congestion, lower traffic accidents and improve the safety of cyclists and pedestrians. This paper concentrates on the ways bicycle and pedestrian facilities have been improved and cyclists and pedestrians benefited by these practices of "traffic calming". The countries selected for this review include Austria, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Germany, France, Sweden, the United Kingdom and Switzerland. They all have programs to encourage cycling and walking and, in some of their major cities, the participation of bicycles in urban traffic represents a third or more of all trips made. The paper is organized in the following sections: Executive Summary; General Considerations; Bicycle and Pedestrian Policies and Programs; Non-Design-Related Safety Initiatives (Helmets and Reflective Devices); Physical Security--Bike Theft; Bicycle Access to Public Transit; Bicycle and Pedestrian Promotion Programs; Conclusions; and Recommendations. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting