What's the Value of Bicycling? $1.5 Billion, in Wisconsin

A new study by the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that bicycling contributes $1.5 billion to Wisconsin's economy every year.

1 minute read

January 3, 2011, 7:00 AM PST

By Tim Halbur


The boost to the Wisconsin economy provided by bicycles comes from tourism, bike shops and bicycle-related businesses, and the health benefit of exercise that keeps people out of the doctor's office:

"Sparta is just one of many Wisconsin places where bicycle recreation generates more than $924 million in economic activity. Sparta welcomes 15,500 visiting bicyclists each year thanks to the Elroy Sparta bike trail. The Wisconsin department of Natural Resources reports that 100,000 people use the trail annually."

"World-renowned bicycle brands like Trek Bicycle Corporation, Saris Cycling Group, Planet Bike, Pacific Cycles, Waterford Precision Cycles reside in Wisconsin. Hundreds of locally-owned bike shops and bicycle-friendly businesses support the vitality of local economies. Wisconsin bicycle industry adds nearly $600 million annually to our state's economy."

Thanks to GOOD

Sunday, January 2, 2011 in Bicycling Federation of Wisconsin

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I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

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