How Does Architecture Respond To The Needs Of Sustainable Transportation?

Auto Trips Generated: The Standard that Ate the Bicycle Network

As a white person living in America, I know that transportation is an important issue for us. We love our cars, but we also need to think about the impact they have on the environment and our local communities. That's why it's so concerning to hear about the "Auto Trips Generated" standard that has taken over the bicycle network.

What is the "Auto Trips Generated" standard?

The "Auto Trips Generated" standard, also known as ATG, is a metric that is used to evaluate the success of transportation projects. It is essentially a measure of how many car trips a project generates, and it is used to determine whether or not a project is cost-effective and should be funded.

While this might seem like a reasonable metric, the problem is that it completely ignores the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. If a project generates more car trips, it is seen as successful, even if it makes it more difficult or unsafe for people to walk or bike.

The impact on the bicycle network

One of the biggest concerns with the ATG standard is that it has taken over the bicycle network. Many cities have established bike lanes and other infrastructure to support cycling, but these projects are often evaluated using the ATG metric. This means that the success of a bike lane is measured by how many car trips it generates, rather than how many people it gets out of their cars and onto bikes.

The result is that bike lanes and other cycling infrastructure are often underfunded or removed altogether in favor of projects that generate more car trips. This is a problem for many reasons:

Cycling is good for the environment

Encouraging people to bike instead of drive is essential for reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change. By prioritizing car trips over cycling trips, we are actively working against our own interests and the interests of future generations.

Cycling is good for health

Cycling is a fantastic form of exercise, and it can help people stay healthy and active. By removing or underfunding bike lanes and other cycling infrastructure, we are making it more difficult for people to stay healthy and fit.

Cycling is good for local economies

When people bike instead of drive, they are more likely to stop and shop at local businesses. This helps to boost local economies and supports small businesses. By prioritizing car trips over cycling trips, we are actually hurting our own communities.

What can we do about it?

If you're concerned about the impact of the ATG standard on the bicycle network, there are a few things you can do:

Support politicians who prioritize cycling infrastructure

One of the biggest obstacles to creating a more bike-friendly world is the lack of political will. By supporting politicians who prioritize cycling infrastructure and are committed to reducing car trips, we can make a difference.

Campaign for change in your community

If you see a problem in your community, don't be afraid to speak up and campaign for change. Whether it's lobbying your local government or starting a grassroots movement, you can make a difference.

Get involved in local advocacy groups

There are many advocacy groups that are working to promote cycling and create more bike-friendly communities. By getting involved in one of these groups, you can make a real difference in your community.

Support businesses that prioritize cycling

When you're deciding where to shop or eat, look for businesses that prioritize cycling. This sends a message that cycling is important, and it can help to create a culture that values cycling over driving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the ATG metric so problematic?

The ATG metric is problematic because it completely ignores the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. It prioritizes car trips over other modes of transportation, even if those modes are more sustainable, healthy, and beneficial for local communities.

How can we change the ATG metric?

Changing the ATG metric will require a concerted effort from advocates and policymakers. We need to work together to create new metrics that take into account the needs of all users of the transportation system, not just drivers.

What are some examples of successful cycling infrastructure?

There are many examples of successful cycling infrastructure around the world. Some cities have established comprehensive networks of bike lanes and other infrastructure, while others have implemented innovative solutions like bike-sharing programs and protected bike lanes. What works in one city may not work in another, so it's important to find solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of your community.

What are some other benefits of cycling?

In addition to being good for the environment, health, and local economies, cycling is also a great way to reduce traffic congestion and improve the overall quality of life in a community. By creating more bike-friendly communities, we can make our cities and towns more livable and enjoyable for everyone.

Overall, the ATG standard is a problem that needs to be addressed if we want to create more sustainable, healthy, and equitable communities. By working together and advocating for change, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations.