Provincial Funding to Improve Cycling Options in Richmond
26 July 2007
Almost $100,000 in provincial funding will help improve Richmond’s cycling network, MLAs Linda Reid, Olga Ilich and John Yap announced today.
The $97,500 in provincial funding will go towards a 0.6-kilometre shoulder bike way along the Westminster Highway, between No. 8 Road and Nelson Road.
“Expanding our cycling infrastructure goes hand-in-hand with other transportation projects – including the Canada Line – to reduce traffic congestion, cut down on emissions and improve our air quality,” said Reid, MLA for Richmond East.
“Finding alternatives to automobiles is an important step on the way to meeting out government’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 33 per cent by 2020. This new cycling infrastructure will help us meet that goal,” said Ilich, MLA for Richmond Centre.
“Our government is committed to improving transportation options in communities across the province. Cycling is a healthy alternative to driving and this investment will help encourage more people to get out of their cars and onto their bikes,” said Yap, MLA for Richmond-Steveston.
The funding is distributed through the Cycling Infrastructure Partnerships Program (CIPP). The CIPP is a province-wide 50-50 cost shared contribution program between the provincial government and local governments for the construction of new cycling infrastructure such as separated bicycle paths, shoulder bikeways, bicycle lanes, and shared roadways. In total, the Province has spent approximately $6.5 million through CIPP, creating more than 100 km of new cycling infrastructure since the program began four years ago.
“This bike way is part of our ongoing efforts to work in co-operation with the provincial government to expand transportation options for Richmond residents,” said Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “This expansion will help to encourage healthy lifestyles and green commuting choices here in Richmond.”
The Province is investing in cycling in other ways. The Gateway Program will provide an investment of $50 million in cycling infrastructure and an additional $10 million investment in municipal cycling network connections through a separate cost-sharing program. Through the LocalMotion program, the Province is providing $40 million over four years for investment in capital projects including bike paths, walkways, greenways, and improved accessibility for people with disabilities. LocalMotion funds are also available for projects that support community playgrounds and children’s parks activities.
CIPP supports ActNow BC, the cross government health promotion initiative that helps British Columbians improve their quality of life by making healthier decisions, and the Throne Speech commitment to reduce B.C.’s greenhouse gas emissions by at least 33 per cent below current levels by 2020.
