A multilevel analysis of the determinants of the attitude toward separate cycle paths in Taiwan

Objective This study examines why people support a policy for separate cycle paths but oppose the necessary means for its implementation-the narrowing of vehicle lanes and reduction of roadside parking spaces. Methods This study used cross-sectional data from the 2009 Taiwan Bicycle Use Survey, covering 23 counties (n = 9236) and applying multilevel multinomial logistic regression models. Results Not in my backyard (NIMBY) or not in my interest (NIMI) were likely to agree on building separate cycle paths but disagree on the means for its implementation. While NIMBYs may support the policy if they are reasonably compensated with a much larger road area and an adequate number of parking spaces, NIMIs' attitudes are more favorable if their government has sufficient financial resources to fund the proposal. Conclusion Local governments need to apply a compensation approach or have more funds to change the public's attitude toward the implementation of policies involving bikeway infrastructure.