Bicycles helping save the State millions

Report finds that for each person who rides as little as 20 minutes to work and back are benefiting the Tasmanian economy by $21.20.

The report conducted by the Australia Government Department of Infrastructure and Transport reveals the significant economic benefits of bike use through decongestion, healthcare, vehicle operation and infrastructure savings.

Bicycle Tasmania Facilities Development Manager Alasdair Doyle said the report was a break through in demonstrating the economic benefits to both state and local governments, and in cost of living savings for families.

“Cycling has physical and health benefits, reduces pollution and traffic congestion and now we have the analyses indicating the economic benefits.” Alasdair Doyle said.

“It is now up to the State to recognise these benefits and take action by supporting and encouraging bike movements in Tasmania.”

The release of the report coincides with the launch of Bicycle Tasmania’s Federal Election Campaign. Candidate questionnaires have been sent to all federal and senate candidates and responses will be published in coming weeks.

The campaign is aimed at better informing voters of candidate policies to encouraging and providing safer facilities for bike transport in Tasmania.
Bicycle Tasmania has called upon all Federal Election candidates to acknowledge the extensive economic, social and health benefits associated to bike riding and increase bike infrastructure across the state.

The report titled “Walking, Riding and Access to Public Transport: Supporting Active Travel In Australian Communities” can be found at http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure/mcu/urbanpolicy/active_travel/index.aspx

• TH, in Comments: Google SIP Suzhou (China). The most fantastic cycling network and infrastructure I have seen or used . In a city of 6 million plus. Add to that electric scooters. It rains here a hell of a lot more than Hobart and is just as cold for the naysayers. If only the Tasmanian Gov had the balls or capacity to deliver