An estimate of change in cycling demand and its use in cost-benefit analysis: a case study of the cycling network in Pilsen.

Abstract

The paper analyses impacts of improved cycling infrastructure on demand for this means of transport. We use a stated preferences design for the elicitation of willingness to use the bicycle in the event of various improvements to the cycling environment in the city (in two levels).

The CBA results are calculated for the following demand change regarding cycling as a means of transport: (1) increase in the number of cyclists commuting and (2) increase in the number of kilometres ridden by bicycle. In the CBA applied to the planned cycling infrastructure network in Pilsen we include the following benefits: i) improvements in health by regular physical activity of new cyclists (quantification of impacts is based on costs of illness); ii) changes in number and severity of accidents (based on accident costs); iii) changes in atmospheric pollution (using the ExternE methodology for impact quantification).