In a 2018 report by the Transportation Planning Board, they note that biking has grown considerably as a commute choice, even while it remains a small part of the commute pie.
In 2000, commuting by bicycle accounted for 0.3% of the total mode share. By 2016, this increased to 0.9%, a 200% increase in mode share and representing the fastest-growing commute mode since 2000. The second-fastest growth in mode share was in transit at 47%. While the use of bike as a primary mode for commuting has increased dramatically since 2000, bike commuting continues to account for less than 1% of total commuting. Nevertheless, bicycling and walking in the Washington region have become increasingly popular predominant travel options for many commuters, especially in the inner jurisdictions. This growth is further supported by an increasing number of non-motorized projects appearing in TPB's long range plan.
In 2005, regional bicycle facilities could be found in many TPB jurisdictions, especially the inner core. In the last decade, several communities have advocated for more bicycle and pedestrian accommodation, complete streets and safe routes to school. As a result, the bike/ped network looks a lot different in 2018. *
TPB's Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan for the National Capital Region catalogs currently funded and unfunded bicycle and pedestrian projects in the region. The current plan database (under development) includes several additional facilities that will further connect communities, Activity Centers and provide alternatives to driving.
Despite a 14.5% increase in population and a 5.6% increase in employment between 2007 and 2018, and decreases in Metrorail use, weekday VMT has remained comparatively flat with only a 0.4% increase.
This trend is further illustrated by the fact that VMT per capita increased 8.5% between 2000 and 2007, but decreased by 12.5% from 2007 through 2015.
Several factors contribute to this, including
- The rapid growth in non-motorized facilities, including shared bicycle providers and dedicated routes, has prompted considerable growth in bicycle/pedestrian travel.
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