# New Open-Source Software Maps Optimized Urban Bike Networks Copenhagen researchers release BikeNetKit to bridge infrastructure gaps in city cycling routes. - **Source:** [Fast Company](https://www.fastcompany.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [technology](https://brifing.si/c/technology) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/6efa23ce-931f-4525-b631-9f3467837511 ## Addressing Urban Connectivity Gaps Most modern cities suffer from fragmented cycling infrastructure where bike lanes abruptly terminate. This disconnection prevents safe cross-town travel for commuters and recreational riders alike. A new software suite aims to solve this by identifying missing links in existing networks, ensuring that disparate paths eventually form a cohesive and continuous urban transit system. ## Introducing the BikeNetKit Toolset The newly released software, known as BikeNetKit, provides a comprehensive suite of digital tools for urban planners and local advocates. It allows users to automatically map out potential bike routes or design entirely new networks from scratch. By streamlining the planning process, the software reduces the manual labor traditionally required for municipal infrastructure design. ## Eight Years of Academic Research The development of BikeNetKit is the culmination of eight years of dedicated research conducted at the IT University of Copenhagen. Researchers focused specifically on the complexities of bicycle infrastructure to create a data-driven approach. This long-term academic foundation ensures the software is grounded in rigorous studies rather than simple aesthetic urban planning. ## Open-Source Accessibility for Cities By releasing the software as a free, open-source platform, the developers aim to democratize access to high-quality urban planning tools. Municipalities with limited budgets can now utilize professional-grade mapping technology without expensive licensing fees. This approach encourages broader adoption across diverse global cities, regardless of their specific financial resources or technical capacity. ## Automated Network Design Mechanics The software functions by analyzing existing street layouts and traffic patterns to suggest optimal bike lane placements. It fills gaps in infrastructure by calculating the most efficient routes that connect residential areas to commercial hubs. This automation helps planners visualize complex networks that might otherwise be overlooked during the initial design phase of projects. ## Empowering Local Bike Advocates Beyond professional urban planners, the software is designed to be accessible to citizen advocates and community groups. By providing these stakeholders with technical tools, the platform enables grassroots organizations to propose data-backed infrastructure improvements to local governments. This shift empowers residents to actively participate in shaping the safety and accessibility of their own neighborhoods. ## Impact on Urban Transit Safety The primary goal of the software is to enhance safety by creating continuous, protected paths for cyclists. When bike lanes are disconnected, riders are often forced into dangerous traffic situations to bridge the gaps. Providing a complete network map helps minimize these high-risk interactions, potentially increasing the overall number of people choosing bicycles. ## Future of Data-Driven Planning As cities face increasing pressure to reduce carbon emissions, tools like BikeNetKit represent a shift toward data-driven urban development. By prioritizing cycling infrastructure through precise digital modeling, planners can create more sustainable transit environments. The long-term success of this initiative will depend on how effectively local authorities integrate these automated suggestions into policy. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.fastcompany.com/91636534/this-new-software-maps-out-a-better-bike-network-for-your-city — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._