Can Bicycles Fix Our Public Transportation Problems?

KPBS | By Doug Myrland, Hank Crook

Published May 15, 2009 at 9:00 AM PDT

This story was published more than 14 years ago.

Are bicycles a viable public transportation option for the future? Today is "Bike to Work Day," and the editors will discuss the current state of San Diego's bicycle infrastructure, and whether improvements should be made to our roadways to create more room for bicyclists.

Doug Myrland: Friday is officially "Bike to Work Day". Last year, over 5,000 people participated in the annual event. SANDAG, and the various public transportation agencies, are promoting the day and bicycle advocates use the occasion to celebrate their cause and raise awareness. Riding ones bicycle to work seems like a healthy, environmentally sound, economical thing to do. So, what's not to like? Well, for one thing, it can be dangerous. For another, automobile commuters may not be so anxious to slow down or re-route to avoid bikes. According to media reports, San Diego is a pretty good place for bicyclists, especially among larger cities. But do we have, or even want, the infrastructure to support a lot more people riding bicycles a lot more often?

Guests

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Chris Reed, editorial writer for the San Diego Union-Tribune, and author of "America's Finest Blog" on signonsandiego.com.

David Rolland, editor of San Diego CityBeat.

JW August, managing editor of 10News.