An exploration of travel behaviour change after the implementation of cycle tracks: a case study of Sherbourne Street in Toronto

With the growing environmental, health and economic concerns associated with automobiles, municipalities are investing in cycling infrastructure. These new infrastructures are often assumed to facilitate a mode substitution effect, encouraging users to switch to active transportation. This study explores the impact of cycle tracks on travel behavior. A case study was conducted on Sherbourne Street, in the city of Toronto, that was redeveloped in 2012 to include cycle tracks, i.e., separated bicycle lanes. The study used a street intercept survey method to record quantitative data on retrospective cycling travel behavior. A mode substitution was observed, with 37.85% of the sample being new riders. However, this number was possibly influenced by self-selection, or a change in residency or destinations. The main reasons for switching to cycling along Sherbourne Street were listed as improved safety and efficiency. The case study provides a measure of the impact of cycle tracks, providing a justification for this infrastructure design.