I think after re-reading the OP that I see a crucial part of TimJ's arguement, and I must say I agree wholeheartedly: People are not inherently stupid for driving cars! The implication some on this board make is flawed, this premise that one should live close to work so they can ride a bike. The infrastructure is not set-up for it just yet, though it probably should be. While I must say it is foolish from my perspective to work far from home maybe some other people gain more from it than they lose. I can't see how the people in the OP might, but what do I know?