From The Times
London, UK
April 28, 2008


‘Give transport cash to cycling and walking to tackle obesity’

Up to 10 per cent of transport budgets should be invested in cycling and walking initiatives to fight obesity, politicians have been urged.

Seventy groups, including the Association of Directors of Public Health, also want to see 20mph speed limits made the norm in residential areas. They are also calling for improved driver training, better-enforced traffic laws and more cycle routes.

The organisations said that spending on cycling in England in 2006-07 amounted to 0.3 per cent of the overall transport budget; in Wales the figure was 0.4 per cent.

The groups, including Sustrans, the pro-cycling body, and the Royal Institute of British Architects, say that significant investment now could have a significant impact on public health.

Tim Crayford, president of the association, said: “If we really want to see levels of obesity declining, we have to move on from the rhetoric. We need to see a visible investment in infrastructure that makes cycling and walking the travel modes of choice.”


http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/ne...icle3828357.ece

When they rebuilt the road near our house, a high-traffic highway, they didn't put in a bike lane even though people put in requests to the city council to do so. Now my husband can't safely ride his bike to work anymore. I'd like to see biking made more accessible and safe.

I live in a cycle-friendly area, with many bike paths. Doesn't help those of us who work 20+ miles from where we live.

Posted speed limits are largely ignored. I typically drive at least 5 over the limit and still have idiots riding my ~ss, wanting to go faster. I get passed in "no passing" zones. Drivers are insane here.

Slightly off-topic, but it would sure be nice if cyclists would *attempt* to follow the rules of the road. Every time I see one on the road I cringe since they are soooo unpredictable. They blow through intersections, ignoring traffic signals. They bounce back and forth between the sidewalks and the streets, annoying pedestrians and cars alike. They ride on the wrong side of the road, against traffic. And so on.

So, yeah... if more paths and such will keep them out of the way, I'm all for it.