Bike ridership has increased over the last few years, according to a new Health Department report published on Tuesday. The results indicate that the bike ridership has increased in almost every demographic surveyed. In 2007, 12 percent of New York City adults cycled at least once a month. By 2014, that figure increased to 16 percent. Bike ridership has also increased among students. In 2009, 17 percent of students cycled at least once a month, which increased to 25 percent in 2013.
Almost every borough saw an increase in bike ridership in recent years. From 2007 to 2014, adults who cycled once a month or more increased in the following boroughs: Manhattan from 12 percent to 22 percent; Brooklyn from 12 percent to 16 percent; Queens from 12 percent to 15 percent; Staten Island from 10 percent to 12 percent. There was no significant change in the Bronx.
In addition to boroughs, there has also been ridership surges across all neighborhood poverty levels, ethnic groups and genders. The report says that the amount of cycling in any city may be influenced by a variety of factors. Secure bicycle storage, neighborhood conditions, access to bike lines, parks and safe streets are some main concerns.
While there has been a significant increase across almost all demographics, there are still some gaps. Households earning four times the federal poverty line had a substantial increase from 13 to 21 percent. Among other household incomes, cycling prevalence remains almost the same, between 13 and 15 percent. There is a gender gap in ridership as well. Adult women who cycle regularly increased from 7 to only 10 percent. Adult men went from 18 up to 23 percent.
Health officials encourage New York City residents to cycle whenever possible. Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett said in a statement:
“Cycling is not only a great mode of transportation in New York City, it’s also a way to increase physical activity and lower the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic diseases. This report shows that not only are more and more New Yorkers cycling, but that the increases are widespread. We will continue our work with DOT and community partners to promote safe active transportation across the five boroughs.”
Feature Image via Flickr/neotint
