Biking has increased yes, many due to the high cost of fuel, many bike to work and home out of necessity leaving them with the money to buy fuel to heat their homes, feed their family and pay the bills. Times are hard for all of us and cutting back on spending in every area has become a way of life for us all.
I remember years ago my Dad biking to work and back everyday to save money, his bike was nothing to admire, his family came first that was 50 yrs ago, his gone now but my Mom is 90 and he provided her well and she still lives in the same house alone where her 6 children grew up. I think the bike trails that connect to one another is a great idea as in RI. Also I think having separate trails iin areas where it is possilbe seems like a wonderful idea.