Are more people biking in Austin?
A survey shows a dramatic increase. But is it believable?
New Podcast Episode: Please check out the most recent episode of my podcast, Urban Affairs, where I interview Nicole Gelinas, a contributing writer for the New York Times op-ed page and the recent author of Movement: New York's Long War to Take Back its Streets from the Car. Gelinas is a fellow at the conservative Manhattan Institute, but unlike most conservatives, she actually thinks and cares about cities. I thought it was a great conversation about transit, housing, homelessness and crime. Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Which bike numbers to believe?
A new survey shows a massive increase in the number of people biking and walking to work. I am skeptical of the data, but encouraged nevertheless.
The survey of 900 residents of Travis, Hays and Williamson Counties was commissioned by Movability, a "transportation management association" comprised of dozens of Central Texas employers. The organization, founded in 2011, aims to reduce traffic congestion by encouraging alternatives to driving alone to work. For instance, it was a big proponent of remote work and flexible scheduling before it went mainstream during the pandemic.
The survey, conducted by the ETC Institute, a reputable research firm, was mailed out to thousands of residents with the goal of getting at least 900 responses total, with 300 from each county. Those who responded were put in a drawing for a $250 gift certificate to HEB.
