Analysis of Urban Connectivity and Traffic Quality Through New Bike Lanes in Cambridge and Boston City, Massachusetts

This study investigates the impact of new bike lanes on urban traffic patterns on two specific streets in Cambridge (completed in 2017) and Boston (completed in 2018), Massachusetts. By examining data from the non-winter period during the morning and afternoon rush before and after the completion of the bike lane, the research analyzes various aspects of bike traffic to determine the changes brought by the new infrastructure. This study aims to determine if there is any difference in connectivity through the number of trips and trip distances and to assess the quality of trips by examining travel speeds. The study also considers the different behaviors during sunny/non-rainy and rainy days. Where the data is available, we also consider an analysis of the various behaviors of cyclists of different ages and genders. Using data analysis techniques to identify patterns and trends, this research provides insights into how bike lanes affect overall traffic dynamics, catering to different demographic groups and environmental conditions.