| England is set to get its first government-led national walking, wheeling and cycling network after dozens of mayors and government officials backed a plan to build and improve on 3,500 miles of dedicated routes. It will build upon an existing, but piecemeal, bike network run by a charity. But the task is no small feat, requiring sustained, long-term funding and strategic planning — as well as prioritization of cycling and walking. And despite broad public support for pedestrian infrastructure in the UK, there will likely be opposition along the way. Still, as contributor Laura Laker writes, the push could have strong chances of success as the potential benefits go beyond improving transport: The network would also be a boost for public health, tourism and local economies. Today on CityLab: What England’s New National Cycling Network Needs to Get Rolling — Arvelisse Bonilla Ramos |
