Localised Perceptions of Large-Scale Active Transport Infrastructure: Resident Attitudes Towards Pedestrian and Cyclist-Only Bridges on the Gold Coast, Australia

Abstract

ABSTRACT Large-scale active transport infrastructure is essential to connect walking and cycling networks severed by physical impediments (e.g. waterways and motorways). Yet, implementations in car-centric urban areas have experienced localised ‘bikelash’ and Not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) resistance. Our mixed-method, cross-sectional study from the Gold Coast, Australia, identified positive sentiments towards green bridge implementations within the broader urban area. However, support for future bridge implementations decreased with proximity to respondents’ homes. State and local governments planning new facilities must account for this geographical discounting effect, where residents want to reside near active transport infrastructure to derive benefit from them, but not too close.