Situating divergent perceptions of a rapid-cycling network in Montréal, Canada

Abstract

As cities work to accelerate sustainable-transport transitions, the expansion of cycling networks has become a significant topic of debate. Even as cycling mode shares are increasing across a number of North American contexts, ‘bikelash’ (i.e. community opposition to cycling facilities) remains prevalent. In this paper, we draw from qualitative questionnaire data and spatial analysis from Montréal, Québec to contribute a situated understanding of factors influencing both positive and negative social perceptions of cycling infrastructure. Our analysis confirms general trends that contribute to residents’ overall satisfaction with recent cycling interventions, including enhanced safety considerations and family-friendly infrastructure. We also identify particular sources of bikelash that require deeper consideration, including conflicting ideas about the impacts of cycling facilities on local businesses, divergent opinions about the planning process, perceived inequities in the distribution of cycling networks, as well as issues of seasonality and modal integration. These findings can be of interest to practitioners and decision makers working to support sustainable-mobility transitions, including recommendations on public communication and consultation processes, winter cycling facilities, integrated infrastructure for active travel, as well as the inclusion of social equity and critical disability perspectives.