More U.S. Cities Achieve High Scores in Cycling Friendliness

A growing number of cities across the United States are making significant strides in promoting cycling as a viable and attractive mode of transport. Between 2025 and 2026, the number of cities scoring well on PeopleForBikes’ metrics more than doubled, reaching 555. This surge indicates a widespread commitment to improving cycling infrastructure and fostering a more bike-friendly environment in urban areas nationwide.

The PeopleForBikes City Ratings program assesses cities based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including the quality of their bike lane networks, safety measures, and policies that encourage cycling. The program aims to provide a standardized way to measure progress and encourage further investment in active transportation. The substantial increase in high-scoring cities suggests that urban planners and policymakers are increasingly prioritizing cycling as a key component of sustainable and healthy urban development.

Por que importa

Key facts

This trend has significant implications for urban planning and public health. As more cities invest in safe and accessible cycling infrastructure, residents are more likely to choose bikes for commuting and recreation. This shift can lead to reduced traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and improved public health outcomes through increased physical activity. The data from PeopleForBikes serves as a valuable benchmark, enabling cities to track their progress and identify areas for improvement.

The rise in cycling-friendly cities reflects a broader shift in urban mobility priorities. Many cities are moving away from a car-centric approach to urban design, recognizing the benefits of diversifying transportation options. This includes investing in public transit, pedestrian infrastructure, and, increasingly, cycling networks. The positive feedback loop created by improved infrastructure often leads to increased ridership, which in turn can justify further investment and policy support.

Contexto

While the report highlights a positive national trend, the specific strategies and challenges faced by individual cities can vary greatly. Factors such as local geography, existing infrastructure, political will, and community engagement all play a role in the success of cycling initiatives. Cities that have seen the most significant improvements often demonstrate a strong commitment from local government, dedicated funding for cycling projects, and effective community outreach to encourage adoption and address concerns.

The continued growth in cycling’s popularity and the increasing number of cities embracing it suggest that this mode of transport will play an even more crucial role in the future of urban planning. As cities grapple with issues like climate change, public health, and equitable access to transportation, investing in cycling infrastructure offers a multifaceted solution. The data provides a clear indication of progress, but ongoing effort and innovation will be key to sustaining and expanding these positive developments.

Source: Streetsblog USA, https://usa.streetsblog.org/2026/06/22/mondays-headlines-are-biked-up