When nearly 1,900 Chicagoans received free bikes, particularly in disinvested neighborhoods, it contributed to a “safer, more accessible urban environment.” A report from the Shared-Use Mobility Center (SUMC) shows that the Chicago Department of Transportation’s (CDOT) Bike Chicago program has effectively expanded bike access to city residents. SUMC, which promotes equitable and sustainable alternatives to car-centric transportation, conducted surveys and interviews with Bike Chicago recipients and stakeholders, observed maintenance classes and distribution events, and analyzed city and program data to gather insight on the first 18 months of the initiative.
Among other findings, the report indicates that nearly two in five recipients ride their bikes three or more times per week, and three in five drive less overall than they did before. Some shared that the bikes allowed for greater independence and mobility and encouraged them to travel around their neighborhoods more. The program is “remarkably cost efficient,” running at $652 per bicycle, including helmets, lights, locks, and training. The report also provides recommendations for CDOT and community members to maximize the impact of Bike Chicago and other initiatives supporting bike access and infrastructure.
