Poised for Pedaling: Comparing Bicycle Infrastructure in Copenhagen, Denmark and Portland, Oregon

Abstract

This thesis investigates the following question: how can Portland learn from Copenhagen’s policy successes and failures to better develop, implement, and utilize bicycle infrastructure going forward? The thesis begins by addressing each city’s mobility history and how that history contributes to current transportation networks. Historical cycling support helps explain Copenhagen’s strong network today, while the US’s embrace of the automobile prevented Portland from fully embracing the bicycle. The thesis then deconstructs the differences between bicycle infrastructure in Copenhagen and Portland along five focus areas: design, municipal control, societal values, current politics, and equity. Copenhagen’s cyclist-friendly design, egalitarian societal values, and strong social safety net contribute to its superior cycling network and bring more cyclists to the streets. These advantages serve as models for Portland for emulate. However, the cities’ common struggles with municipal infrastructure control and mobility politics demonstrate cycling’s divisive nature regardless of locale. They also show that improvement remains well within Portland’s reach.