Why Can’t More Cities Be Like Davis, California?
I live in Lubbock, Texas. Let me just say it—Lubbock is one of the least bicycle-friendly cities I’ve ever ridden in. I’m not saying the people here hate cyclists. In fact, most drivers are courteous enough. The problem isn’t attitude—it’s infrastructure. There are some bike lanes here and there, but they seem like afterthoughts. You might be riding along a decent bike path when, suddenly, it just ends. No warning, no signage, and definitely no alternative. You’re left merging into busy traffic with no protection. It feels like a city that started something for cyclists but never finished the job. Now let me contrast that with Santa Fe, New Mexico. I’ve ridden there, and the difference is night and day. Even at busy intersections, I felt safe. Why? Because Santa Fe has a vision for cyclists—and they’ve backed it up with real infrastructure. And that got me thinking about Davis, California. I’d heard it was one of the most bike-friendly cities in America, and I wanted to know why. ...
