Heated Bicycle Lanes for Netherlands
- 12 years ago
Several towns in the Netherlands are debating on installing heated bicycle paths.
Driving in a car during winters can be dangerous enough, imagine riding a bicycle. Several towns in the Netherlands are considering a radical approach to winter bicycle commuting.
Officials would like to heat bicycle lanes which would allow citizens to travel on two wheels comfortably, while also reducing accidents.
The setup would utilize geothermal energy which would be generated 100-160 feet underground. The system would prevent ice forming on the path surfaces and officials hope that it would encourage motorists to opt for a safe and cheap alternative way to commute.
Although it may sound like a great idea, it could cost the government 40,000-80,000 dollars per mile to install. Considering the country has thousands of miles of bike paths, project cost would be very high.
A few years ago, the state of Michigan began plotting to install costly, heated sidewalks in target areas near the Supreme Court and capitol. While state and town officials claimed it was a necessary measure to improve safety, many taxpayers thought the money would be better spent on education.
Driving in a car during winters can be dangerous enough, imagine riding a bicycle. Several towns in the Netherlands are considering a radical approach to winter bicycle commuting.
Officials would like to heat bicycle lanes which would allow citizens to travel on two wheels comfortably, while also reducing accidents.
The setup would utilize geothermal energy which would be generated 100-160 feet underground. The system would prevent ice forming on the path surfaces and officials hope that it would encourage motorists to opt for a safe and cheap alternative way to commute.
Although it may sound like a great idea, it could cost the government 40,000-80,000 dollars per mile to install. Considering the country has thousands of miles of bike paths, project cost would be very high.
A few years ago, the state of Michigan began plotting to install costly, heated sidewalks in target areas near the Supreme Court and capitol. While state and town officials claimed it was a necessary measure to improve safety, many taxpayers thought the money would be better spent on education.