One Element or More?

 The bicycle facilities are not the only element that makes biking successful in Copenhagen.  Here is a quick rundown of some major changes throughout the years in Copenhagen:

• In 1947 a long-term plan that resembled fingers was developed to expand Copenhagen. 
• New suburbs were created.
• Freeways and public transportation connected the suburbs to the workplaces in the City.
• The areas between the fingers we protected for green recreational areas.
• In 1960, even though construction in the suburbs was booming, the center of Copenhagen's development stopped.
• The old working-class neighborhoods were falling apart and only the poorest people lived there as the wealthy moved to the suburbs.
• Industries moved out and there was no willingness to invest in the City. 
• In 1990, the politicians wanted to save Copenhagen by first tackling the social imbalances.
• Urban renewal increased the housing standards in the City and large green courtyards attracted people back to the City. 
• As I have been experiencing Copenhagen, seeing how all of the courtyards and plazas are being utilized is impressive. 
    
• New residential and cultural establishments revitalized the old industrial harbor.
• New bridges were built across the harbor to connect the City. 
• In 2000, huge infrastructure investments were made. 
• The Copenhagen Metro installation connected the old Copenhagen with the airport and as a result, new urban districts popped up near the new metro stations. 
• In 2020, major investments in public transportation and bike facilities made the City more sustainable.
• New recreational green areas were created.
• New residential areas along the inner harbor were developed with a focus on living the good life. 
• We were lucky enough to tour one of the new developments thanks to a couple that lives there.  The development was fascinating and provided such a community environment. The development provided a terraced lounge and swimming areas along the water, rooftop lounges, a courtyard playground, a green parking garage with an amazing playground on the roof (I'll talk more about playgrounds later), coffee shops, converted silos to office and residential spaces, etc.

                        

 

   

Living the good life and creating community seems to be one of the largest focuses in Copenhagen.