Evolving Patterns of Bike-Sharing Demand in Los Angeles: Spatiotemporal Trends and Planning Implications

Bike-sharing systems are increasingly vital for promoting sustainable urban mobility, particularly in cities where car dependency remains deeply entrenched. In the context of Los Angeles, understanding the spatial and temporal distribution of bike-sharing demand is essential for enhancing system efficiency and supporting sustainable transportation objectives. This study aims to address existing research gaps by examining quarterly variations, seasonal trends, and neighborhood-level disparities in bike-sharing usage between 2022 and 2024.

The research employs a spatiotemporal analysis framework, utilizing Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) models to capture localized patterns of demand. Through the integration of spatial clustering methods and regression analysis, the study explores how factors such as infrastructure accessibility, commuter behaviors, and seasonal dynamics influence bike-sharing adoption across the city.

The findings reveal a consistent increase in bike-sharing demand over the study period, with pronounced peaks during the spring and summer quarters. High-demand areas, including North Hollywood, Westwood, and Downtown Los Angeles, exhibit persistent spatial clustering, reflecting the role of tourism, improved station availability, and evolving mobility patterns. The results further indicate a strengthening spatial dependence in demand, suggesting a more structured and predictable network over time.

These insights contribute to advancing the understanding of urban mobility trends in Los Angeles and provide practical guidance for policymakers and urban planners aiming to optimize bike-sharing infrastructure and integrate it more effectively within the city’s transportation framework.