From wheels to meals

Do bike lanes drive restaurant growth in Montreal? (2005–2020)

Bibliographic Data

ID7173907
AuthorsJia Yu (0000-0002-7194-7635), Jia Yi Yu (Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, corresponding author), Justin Dubé (0000-0003-3445-3449, Université Laval), Jean Dubé, Cédric Brunelle (0000-0003-0995-8621, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique)
Year2025
Volume171
Pages106740-106740
Publication date2025-12-26
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueCities (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0264-2751 • E-ISSN: 1873-6084
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.cities.2025.106740
OpenAlexW7117291122
LanguageEN
References cited38

This study explores the economic impact of bike lanes on local commercial growth in Montreal, focusing on their influence on the number of restaurants (cafés, dining and nightlife establishments). While active transportation infrastructure is often promoted for its health and environmental benefits, its potential to drive economic development remains debated. Using an Event Study Analysis (ESA) framework, this research analyzes the relationship between bike lane implementation (2005–2020) and restaurant growth within a 150-meter radius. Results indicate that bike lanes do not consistently lead to increased restaurant numbers citywide. However, significant positive effects were observed in the Ville-Marie borough, where a sustained increase in the number of restaurants was detected for up to 10 years following implementation. This study highlights the importance of aligning active transportation planning with local economic conditions to enhance the effectiveness of such investments.

Borough · Economic impact analysis · Event (particle physics) · Key (lock · Occupancy · Vitality · Consumer Retail Behavior Studies · Hospitality and Tourism Education · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management · Sport and Mega-Event Impacts · Urban Transport and Accessibility · Wine Industry and Tourism

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