Myths Debunked: People On Bikes Don’t Pay For The Roads They Use

Livable Streets is running a great series on debunking myths, really liked this one.

from the email:

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Over the next four months, we’ll be debunking common transportation myths. Last month we highlighted the myth: Driving is a priority among American youth. This month, we explore another popular myth.

Myth: People biking don’t pay for the roads they use.

Debunked: Every person who pays taxes pays for our roads. 

The gas tax, tolls, and automobile registration fees, which many people believe funds a majority of road construction and maintenance, only fund about half of the nation’s road expenses. The remaining costs are covered through general tax revenue.

Two other facts to keep in mind:
1. Many people who bike also own a car and are paying the “user fees” mentioned above.
2. The negative externalities to biking are very minimal compared to the congestion, road damage and car crashes that are associated with driving.

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