Wanted: More Bike Lanes

The nation’s capital is one of the most livable large cities in the United States, in part because of its extensive bike lanes. But are there enough lanes for the number of riders?

AARP DC is encouraging the city to continue to expand its network of bike lanes to help residents get around town in an economic, healthy way. Transportation is key to the city’s age-friendly mission, and bike lanes help commuters and recreational cyclists stay safe from automobile traffic when they ride.

About 4 percent of D.C. commuters travel by bike. Additionally, 27,600 residents have monthly or annual memberships in the Capital Bikeshare Program. A 2014 study found that 12 percent of Bikeshare users were ages 45-54, and 8 percent were ages 55-64.

AARP DC encourages members to get involved in Age-Friendly DC. Go to agefriendly.dc.gov to explore the possibilities.