ABSTRACT
This chapter seeks to analyze cycling investment from an economic framework with cost–benefit setting. It also seeks to provide planners, transportation specialists, and health advocates with detailed economic analysis worksheets to determine the full costs and benefits of promoting bicycling in urban and suburban areas. The chapter discusses the proposed cost–benefit analysis (CBA) framework by introducing the main inputs and outputs for estimating the most important benefit components and expenses associated with bicycle facilities. CBA has become a powerful tool used in planning and policy efforts at all levels of transportation planning. The chapter presents a case study in which a CBA is developed to determine whether the benefits of an added cycling facility can justify the expenditure of several million dollars. It also presents recommendations for research, policy, and other measures that can be taken to meet the goals of the study.
