Israeli Bicyclists Decry Auto-Oriented Planning

"'People like to ride bicycles. If you give them the opportunity to start their day by riding to work, many people will do so. The problem is that this alternative does not really exist,' says Yotam Avi Zohar, director of the Israel Bicycle Association. Zohar says it is not utopia to get to work by bike or on foot - rather, it is a matter of correct planning and a willingness to promote such ideas. He notes that for most urban residents, their places of residence and employment are located between five and 7 kilometers apart, a distance easily covered by bike or on rollerblades.

Zohar is aware of the hot weather conditions but he points out that in the months between September and May "it is wonderful to ride a bike." Besides, he believes employers should be encouraged to provide shower facilities for workers or to consider a monthly subscription to a shower in a nearby gym."