Studies Show Biking Helps Economy

The Copper Country is well-known for its many biking trails and not only is it good for your health but it helps the economy as well. According to a study commissioned by the Michigan Department of Transportation, bicycling is responsible for a $668 million annual impact on Michigan’s economy. The study found that household retail spending on bicycles totals $175 million and that the actual manufacturing of the bicycles comes to $11 million. Bicycling leads to another $256 million in avoided health care costs and reduces absenteeism at work by $187 million. The final $38 million comes from event and tourism spending. Some 39 percent of households reported using a bicycle for transportation last year, and the bicycle industry employs nearly 800 people in the state. Back in April, the city of Hancock passed the Complete Streets ordinance that ensures that future roads and renovations to the city safely accommodate non-motorized transportation.