I’ve received a lot of emails about the Official Community Plan, encouraging me to support more AAA protected bike and roll routes. Writers have noted the many benefits, including safety, improved mode share outcomes, reduced emissions, and health.
I agree!
I’ve forwarded specific suggestions writers have made to the staff leading the AAA and OCP work. And here are some comments:
The infrastructure is working; people who never would have ridden before (moms and tots, seniors, etc.) are now able to do so safely, and we’ve seen ridership increases immediately after infrastructure is installed:
The network effects are also starting to appear; the system gets better as the gaps get filled in, and we are now seeing increases even though overall travel is down due to the pandemic:
However we need to build more. I am far from being satisfied, let alone done.
And we are building more. The Gorge project is underway, and Blanshard and Caledonia will be starting shortly. Little connectors and local improvements are also underway, and will continue. Map 8 of the Official Community Plan shows the current network and the approximate future of the expanded network.
Also, with the spectacular growth of e-bikes and micromobility we have much more potential for more sustainable regional travel. We need to make vital connections with our neighbouring systems. I was happy to bring a motion to have Victoria staff accelerate our work on Shelbourne in order to connect with the Saanich Shelbourne infrastructure, coming soon! Others are in the works. And at the CRD Board on June 7 we voted to widen 6km of the Goose, E&N and Lochside trails.
These are exciting times. It’s great to be in a community with such strong support for sustainable transportation.
Thanks again, please keep advocating, and don’t hesitate to get in touch!