Saturday, February 7, 2015

Williams Lake Awarded Grants for Cycling Infrastructure

Courtesy of the BC Government Caucus:

The B.C. government is providing $142,498 in funding toward the Highway 97/Toop Road and Carson Drive, separated bike path and shared roadway to make it safer for cyclists.

“The Highway 97, Toop Road, and Carson Drive improvement project is a key component of the Williams Lake parks, trails and outdoor recreation system,” says Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett. “Improving this area provides more opportunities for families to get active while increasing safety for drivers, cyclists and families.”

Creating a bike route on the east side of the Highway 97 north of Toop Road will provide a key connection between the north end of Broadway Avenue through to Fox Mountain Road. A multi-use pathway will connect two major highway intersections.

BikeBC is the Province’s cost-sharing program that helps local governments to construct projects that attract and support commuter, recreational and tourism cyclists and pedestrians. 

“This funding will support easier access for cyclists along and across the Highway 97 corridor,” says Cariboo North MLA Coralee Oakes. “By improving cycling infrastructure, we improve the quality of life for all British Columbians and create a healthier, greener future.”

Twenty communities will share more than $3.69 million in BikeBC funding for 22 projects across the province. This year’s investment will generate more than $7.38 million in cycling infrastructure. The funds will support projects that expand and build cycling lanes, trails and paths, which in turn increase physical activity and help reduce greenhouse gases. Since 2001, the B.C. government has committed almost $155 million in cycling infrastructure, creating new bicycle lanes and trails in over 100 communities.

During consultations for the new ten-year transportation plan, BC on the Move, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure heard that enhanced cycling infrastructure and improved transportation choices are important to British Columbians. Many local governments and community organizations indicated that increased participation in cycling and walking programs, and improvements to cycling and pedestrian trails and networks, are among their highest priorities.

Quick Facts:

  • Cycling 10 kilometres to and from work every day would reduce your greenhouse gas emissions by 15,000 kg a year.
  • Cycling eight kilometres is equal to 30 minutes of moderate exercise.

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