Hendrich, T., Koster, HansR.A., Loumeau, N. and van Ommeren, J. (2026). Cycling cities: Mode choice, car congestion, and urban structure Journal of Urban Economics, 155:1--19.
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Affiliated authors
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Publication year2026
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JournalJournal of Urban Economics
Cycling as a mode of commuting has gained popularity in cities worldwide. This study examines the impact of cycling on the urban spatial structure and welfare through the development of a quantitative spatial equilibrium model that incorporates mode choice and car congestion. We apply this model to the Netherlands, which is known for its extensive cycling infrastructure. Eliminating cycling increases commuting times and distances by 15% and 30%, exacerbates car congestion, and results in a significant reduction in worker welfare. We also show that removing dedicated cycleways leads to similar, although less pronounced, changes in the spatial economy.