- AT-Network - University of Manitoba Mailing Lists

Composition of London riders
by ian_toal＠mymts.net 13 Oct '15

13 Oct '15

An interesting study looking at the makeup of London cyclists and why some people (and ethnicities) don't cycle. As a side note, there are nearly 2000 comments, and they seem to be largely from insulted white males, which makes a change from the usual 'I nearly got hit by a car/rider yesterday', cyclists running red lights etc. that tends to dominate most comments on cycling articles. http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/davehillblog/2015/oct/12/why-are-london-… Ian

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scrap marion/archibald interchange says st.b Councillor allard
by Anders Swanson 08 Oct '15

08 Oct '15

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/scrap-st-boniface-interchange-plan-c…

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Open Houses: West Alexander Ped/Bike Corridor and Dntn Bike Lanes
by Beth McKechnie 08 Oct '15

08 Oct '15

** Please share widely! Thanks **

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Cycling and Running Heat Map Data
by Daniel Gravenor 06 Oct '15

06 Oct '15

I found this interesting to see how GPS data can currently be easily collected, used and translated to the public. Similar to the OTTOCycle project done in the past. http://gizmodo.com/strava-insights-lets-you-see-how-the-world-runs-and-cyc-… Strava tracks runs and rides and has collected an extraordinary amount of data, and sells it to city planners. Their Insights <http://insights.strava.com/> (http://insights.strava.com/) website lets you explore how some cities around the world runs and cycles.

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Bike lane blues: why don’t businesses want a £30m cycle-friendly upgrade?
by ian_toal＠mymts.net 06 Oct '15

06 Oct '15

Informative article about business opposition to bike lanes/active transport in the London borough of Enfield. An interesting statistic (on a side graph) is that as of 2011 only 0.9 % of commuters cycle to work in Enfield, while the London average is 2.5 %. http://www.theguardian.com/cities/2015/oct/05/bike-lane-blues-london-local-… Ian Toal

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NCCHPP Webinar: Through Road/Main Street Interventions: Towards a More Balanced Coexistence Between Road Traffic and Life in Small Municipalities
by formation_ccnpps＠inspq.qc.ca 06 Oct '15

06 Oct '15

Our apologies for any cross-posting Dear colleagues, The National Collaborating Centre for Healthy Public Policy (NCCHPP) would like to invite you to join us for a webinar entitled: “Through Road/Main Street Interventions: Towards a More Balanced Coexistence Between Road Traffic and Life in Small Municipalities”. This webinar will take place on October 29, 2015, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (EDT). For more details or to register, please click on the link below: http://www.ncchpp.ca/176/Presentations.ccnpps?id_article=1497 If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. Regards, Marianne Jacques Network Development Officer National Collaborating Centre for Healthy Public Policy (NCCHPP) ncchpp_training(a)inspq.qc.ca

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How to respond when someone complains there's no parking
by Beth McKechnie 05 Oct '15

05 Oct '15

Excellent article from St Paul with 3 basic steps to help respond when someone complains there's no parking: 1. Understand perception 2. Map parking supply 3. Document unused supply Details and photos: http://www.startribune.com/how-to-respond-when-someone-complains-there-s-no… It stems from this related article on how there's actually too much parking available in St Paul's booming Lowertown district, which concludes that there's actually a 'walking opportunity' as opposed to parking issues. Sounds just like home! http://www.citylab.com/commute/2015/08/the-real-downtown-parking-problem-th… cheers, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Bike lanes as visual pollution.
by Patman, David 25 Sep '15

25 Sep '15

Hope we don't encounter this in Winnipeg in the future: http://www.citylab.com/commute/2015/09/objecting-to-bike-lanes-as-paint-str… David Patman, P. Eng. Transit Planner Winnipeg Transit | Service Development Division 421 Osborne Street | Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 2A2 P: 204-986-5737 | dpatman(a)winnipeg.ca<mailto:dpatman@winnipeg.ca>

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12 things Montreal wants to change about Quebec's laws for cyclists
by Beth McKechnie 23 Sep '15

23 Sep '15

12 things Montreal wants to change about Quebec's laws for cyclists http://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/city-proposes-new-rules-for-cycl… If the city has its way, cyclists won’t have to stop at stop signs. It’s one of several new measures the city is recommending as the province revises its Highway Safety Code to improve cyclist safety. Transport Minister Robert Poëti is expected to outline the new measures in the fall session of the National Assembly. On Monday, the city of Montreal unveiled its recommendations for how the code should be changed. The general thrust of its suggestions would give cyclists greater mobility, while working to prevent serious accidents, like dooring, when a driver opens a car door and hits a cyclist. Dooring is a serious problem, Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre said, accounting for about one fifth of all major injuries to cyclists in the last year. While Ontario has upped the fine for dooring to $1,000 plus three demerit points, the penalty in this province is $30. “We need to protect the most vulnerable,” Coderre said. “When one fifth of accidents are because people open their doors, and there’s only a $30 fine, do you think that’s enough?” He said even if the city’s requested changes would legitimize common illegal behaviour among cyclists, such as going through stop signs, they will have to be responsible. “We have to be sensitive to the reality, but cyclists also have to follow the rules,” Coderre said, adding that cyclists will have to watch out for pedestrians. The new proposed rules were welcomed by Montreal Bike Coalition spokesperson Daniel Lambert. “We made a few recommendations to the transport minister, and these support our position, so we’re happy about that,” Lambert said. Marianne Giguère, the Projet Montréal spokesperson for cycling issues, also welcomed the city’s position, but said along with new rules, the city must improve markings on the streets and signs on the road to give more place for cyclists. She said more bike boxes <http://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/montreal-cycling-bike-boxes-new-…> should be painted on the roads, so cyclists have a safe place to stop at intersections. Here is the list of rules the city would like to see changed: *1. Introduce the principle of prudence. *Put the onus on drivers to watch out for cyclists. This is to recognize that cyclists are more vulnerable than motorists, so motorists should take this into account when sharing the road. *2. Allow ‘Idaho stops’ for stop signs. *Idaho stops, named after a measure first adopted in the northwestern state, allow cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs, obliging them to slow down or stop for people crossing in front of them. If there are no people crossing, cyclists can merely slow down and continue without making a full stop. However, the city is opposed to allowing this practice at red lights. Cyclists should also be permitted to cross at walk signals when there is a red light for cars. *3. Reduce the risk of dooring. *Remove the obligation for cyclists to ride on the extreme right side of the road. This allows cyclists to ride where they feel comfortable, and also reduces the risk of dooring. Dooring should be included in the province’s definition of a road accident, and stiffer fines should be imposed on drivers who hit cyclists with their doors. The rule for passing should change to require cars to leave at least one metre between them and cyclists. The current rule merely says there should be “a safe distance.” *4. Permit cyclists to ride between two lanes of traffic, and even on sidewalks in some cases.* Young children should be permitted to ride on the sidewalk, and cyclists should also be allowed when there is construction on the road, or when there is an underpass that is considered unsafe for cyclists to ride on the road. Cars turning right should yield for cyclists going straight in the same lane. Cyclists should be permitted to ride in reserved bus lanes when space allows. *5. Stiffer fines, but no demerits for cyclists. *Increase fines for cyclists, which are currently in the $15 to $30 range. However, cyclists who break the law should no longer be issued demerit points, because not everyone has a drivers’ licence, and that is an arbitrary and unfair penalty. *6. Define the term bicycle. *That term should exclude scooters. Skateboards, in-line skates and electric wheelchairs should be permitted on bike lanes. The city already tolerates these modes of transportation in that space. *7. Prohibit the use of cellular phones and earphones while riding.* *8. Prohibit riding a bike under the influence of alcohol or other substances.* *9. Permit cyclists to ride side-by-side when space allows.* *10. Do not require cyclists to wear helmets.* Such laws in other jurisdictions have resulted in fewer overall cyclists on the road. *11. Revisit the law on reflectors and lights to make cyclists more visible.* *12. Change the rule on brakes.* Currently, the law requires a brake on the back wheel. Other types of braking systems should be considered, like those on fixed-gear bicycles, which connect the gear to the back hub of the wheel so that the bike stops as soon as the user stops pedalling. jmagder(a)montrealgazette.com twitter.com/JasonMagder

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Human-powered vehicle speed record broken by Canada's Aerovelo
by Terry Zdan 23 Sep '15

23 Sep '15

http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/aerovelo-speed-record-1.3239241 -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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Bike Winnipeg presents Dirty Catfish Brass Band with Slow Leaves - A Fundraising Concert @ the WECC
by Mark Cohoe 18 Sep '15

18 Sep '15

Hi Everyone, On Friday October 9th, Bike Winnipeg <http://bikewinnipeg.ca/> will be putting on a fundraising concert featuring Winnipeg artists the Dirty Catfish Brass Band and Slow Leaves<http://bikewinnipeg.ca/event/bike-winnipeg-presents-dirty-catfish-brass-ban…>. Proceeds from the performance go to Bike Winnipeg in support of our ongoing advocacy efforts to provide people on bikes with safe, comfortable and convenient ways to get around our city. Over the past three years the Dirty Catfish Brass Band <http://www.dirtycatfishbrassband.com/> (DCBB) has been bringing the sounds of the Bayou north while building a strong reputation as one of Winnipeg's most explosive live bands. Featuring some of Winnipeg's top instrumentalists, this horn heavy ensemble fronted by an explosive brass section presents the best of New Orleans second-line, funk and soul. Supporting act Slow Leaves <http://slowleaves.com/> has garnered a reputation as much for his honest lyrics and stirring voice as his intimate stage performances and confessional storytelling. His country-tinged folk music is deeply rooted in the genuine and honest, rich in melody and sung from the heart of downtown. In addition to being treated to two of Winnipeg’s premier musical artists, concert goers will also have the opportunity to learn about and comment on Bike Winnipeg’s ongoing advocacy work, including: * Recommendations for Winnipeg’s Downtown Protected Bike Lanes * Recommendationsthe Arlington Bridge and accompanying protected bike lanes * Plans for the rehabilitated Pembina Underpass and Southwest RT Corridor Bike Routes * Recommendations for a new Northwest Hydro Corridor Greenway The concert will take place from 7:15 pm to 11:00 pm at the West End Cultural Centre <http://www.wecc.ca/>. Tickets can be purchased for $15 from the West End Cultural Centre (586 Ellice), Music Trader (97 Osborne St.), Into the Music (245 McDermot Ave.), or online here <https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/bike-winnipeg-presents-dirty-catfish-brass-band…>. We'd love to see you there, but if you can't make it, please consider spreading the word to anyone you think might be interested in attending. Thanks, Mark Cohoe Executive Director Bike Winnipeg

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Free webinar: Studying Vancouver's Protected intersections
by Beth McKechnie 18 Sep '15

18 Sep '15

Note this free webinar coming up on Monday, Sept 21st. We are not able to host a group viewing at the EcoCentre as I'm travelling this week, but it looks like a good one you could register for and watch on your own. WEBINAR WATCH: STUDYING VANCOUVER’S PROTECTED INTERSECTIONS Protected intersections are hot. A free one-hour webinar <https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8761710562780325634> this month will walk you through the ins and outs of the first one in North America. The presentation by an active transportation manager and a street engineer from Vancouver, B.C., will start at 3 p.m. Eastern time on Monday, Sept. 21. Vancouver has moved faster than any other city in the U.S. or Canada to build new protected bikeway networks over the last few years. According to the description by the webinar hosts -- the National Association of City Transportation Officials -- the presentation will "provide an overview of a variety of protected intersection treatments that Vancouver has been implementing over the past 5 years including its first fully protected intersection at Burrard and Cornwall." http://www.peopleforbikes.org/blog/entry/webinar-watch-studying-vancouvers-…

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Pro Walk/Pro Bike/Pro Place - Vancouver Sept 2016
by Beth McKechnie 17 Sep '15

17 Sep '15

Nice to see the next Pro Walk Pro Bike conference taking place in Canada. Highly recommend attending if you can! ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Pro Walk/Pro Bike/Pro Place 2016 <dleyzerovsky(a)pps.org> Date: Thu, Sep 17, 2015 at 3:32 PM Subject: Pro Walk/Pro Bike/Pro Place September Newsletter [image: Project for Public Spaces] <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> Pro Walk/Pro Bike/Pro Place 2016: Moving Towards a Healthier World <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> will be held in Vancouver BC, September 12-15, 2016. The conference is produced by the nonprofit Project for Public Spaces <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…>. Pro Walk/Pro Bike/Pro Place is the world's premier Active Transportation and Placemaking conference. We hope to see you in Vancouver! Meet PPS in Saint Louis At the end of this month we will be in St. Louis for APBP's Professional Development Seminar (PDS) <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…>. Stop by our table to meet David Leyzerovsky <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=6…> and to welcome Sam Goater <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…>, the latest addition to our conference team. We will also have some people on hand from Vancouver, host city for Pro Walk/Pro Bike/Pro Place 2016. Be sure to catch Vancouver's presentations at the PDS: - Do Changes to the Built Environment Support a Healthy City? A Case Study of the Comox-Helmcken Greenway in Vancouver B.C. - Cycling and Walking to Safer Streets: City of Vancouver Pedestrian and Cycling Safety Studies For the rest of the conference program go to http://apbppds.org <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=f…> PARK[ing] Day with PPS This Friday, September 18, PPS will be celebrating International PARK(ing) Day at our Washington, DC office. Check out the plans for our supercool parklet, which will feature a human-powered fender blender among other activities and attractions. Stay turned to our Twitter feed for photos and updates @WalkBikePlaces <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> . If you are not up to speed on PARK(ing) Day, check out this primer <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=c…> put together by the National Association of Realtors, one of our previous conference sponsors. Vancouver Locals You Need to Know: Meet the Family Behind Modacity Vancouver’s first active transportation family tries to commute everywhere they go by bike. Meet Chris and Melissa Bruntlett, who in the summer of 2010, made the decision to abandon their car and make nearly every trip with their two young children by bike. While the decision was nerve wrecking at first, it became apparent very quickly that by giving up their car they avoided the inconvenience of traffic, delays, and having to find parking. Four years later, Chris and Melissa took their passion further by founding Modacity <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=e…>, a multi-service consultancy that through their work as writers, filmmakers, photographers and speakers inspires “healthier, happier, and more simple forms of urban mobility.” Check out their latest collection of short films highlighting cycling in Arlington, VA <http://pps.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> . Learn more at <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…>*prowalkprobike.org <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…>* *Presented by* <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=1…> *Hosted by <http://pps.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…>* <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=e…> <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=c…> *Covered by* <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> <http://pps.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> @walkbikeplaces <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=0…> ProWalkProBikeProPlace <http://pps.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> <http://pps.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=f…> prowalkprobike.org <http://pps.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=2c803e70a8ad33c13a95a1ee6&id=…> *Copyright © 2015 Project for Public Spaces, PPS, All rights reserved.* You are receiving this email because you opted in at our website to receive updates about Pro Walk Pro Bike Pro Place.

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Coming Soon: NACTO Global Street Design Guide
by Shoni Madden 17 Sep '15

17 Sep '15

Visit our website <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> for more information about this year's conference. View this email in your browser <http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id=472b0fbd7a…> Coming Soon: Global Street Design Guide On October 28, 2015, NACTO will unveil a new resource for designing urban streets around the world: the *Global Street Design Guide. * Join NACTO Chair Janette Sadik-Khan at the 2015 Designing Cities conference in Austin for the official launch of this groundbreaking guide. Each year, more than 1.2 million people die globally from traffic fatalities. At least half of these are vulnerable users, such as people walking and bicycling. With many problems rooted in outdated codes and standards, there is an urgent need to redefine the role of streets in cities and provide guidance to shaping sustainable public spaces. The forthcoming Global Street Design Guide <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> (GSDG) will set a new global baseline for designing urban streets around the world. Recognizing that cities are places for people, the GSDG shifts the parameters of designing urban streets from the typical point of view of automobile movement and safety, to include access, safety and mobility for all users; environmental quality; economic benefit; enhancement of place; public health and overall quality of life. The Guide builds off the successful tools and tactics defined in NACTO’s Urban Street Design Guide <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…> and Urban Bikeway Design Guide <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> while addressing a variety of street typologies and design elements found in various contexts around the world. Produced by the Global Designing Cities Initiative <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> with support from internationally renowned consultants and a Global Expert Network <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> with representation from 68 cities and 39 countries around the world, the GSDG has been created *for* global cities,* by* global cities. This innovative guide will inspire leaders, inform practitioners, and empower communities in realizing the potential in their public space networks. By treating streets as public spaces that integrate varied functions and uses, the GSDG will help cities unlock the potential of streets as safe, accessible and economically sustainable places. Don't miss the Global Street Design Guide national launch events on October 28, 2015 at the Designing Cities conference in Austin <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…>! Designing Cities 2015: Austin Join city transportation officials, planners, engineers, designers, and practitioners from cities across the U.S. and world for a series of conversations on urban street design and transportation policy. Register today! Early bird rates <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…> are available until September 25 Join us on October 28-31 in Austin, Texas for the fourth annual Designing Cities conference <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…>. The conference program <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> will include sessions on: - Building Safe Pedestrian Networks through Corridor Redesign - Making the Case for Complete Streets: The Power of Images - Complementing Transit Systems with Shared Mobility - Designing Public Spaces: Buskers, Benches and Barbecue - Making it Happen: Gaining Public Support to turn Action Plans into Action - Protecting People Biking and Walking through Intersections - Planning, Designing, and Implementing Shared Streets - and much more! *Program information *is available on NACTO's website <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…> or as a PDF <http://nacto.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…> . *Register <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> by September 25 for early bird rates*, and reserve your hotel room <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> by October 6 to receive the discounted group rate. NACTO is delighted to announce that the 2015 Designing Cities conference will feature keynote presentations from two visionary city leaders: Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and NACTO Chair Janette Sadik-Khan. Don't miss these inspirational talks about the power of thoughtful transportation policy to transform a city. This year's WalkShops feature the best of Austin's transportation system, from bike infrastructure <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…> to festival streets <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…>, sidewalk cafes <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> to MetroRapid BRT <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…>. WalkShops are led by city project managers and their partners, and are a fantastic opportunity to learn while walking, bicycling, and taking transit around Austin! Thank you to the sponsors of the 2015 Designing Cities conference whose generous support makes this event possible. For information on sponsorship opportunities or ways to be involved, contact Corinne Kisner, Director of Policy and Special Projects, at corinne(a)nacto.org <corinne(a)nacto.org?subject=Designing%20Cities%202015>. Upcoming Events: *September 21, 3:00-4:00pm ET* NACTO Webinar: Protected Intersections in Vancouver <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…> *September 25-27* National Open Streets Summit in Atlanta, GA <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&i…> *September 28-30* M <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…>ove Together, a national shared mobility summit in Chicago, IL <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> *Copyright © 2015 National Association of City Transportation Officials, All rights reserved.* You're receiving this email because you subscribed to the NACTO Newsletter. *Our mailing address is:* National Association of City Transportation Officials 120 Park Avenue 14th Floor New York, NY 10017 *Add us to your address book* <http://nacto.us2.list-manage1.com/vcard?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id=8f34…> *unsubscribe from this list* <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id…> *update subscription preferences* <http://nacto.us2.list-manage.com/profile?u=1df77980a1a876128766fe573&id=8f3…> -- *Shoni Madden* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3773 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/> * Please note that my regular office hours are Wednesday/Friday. I will respond to your communication at this time.

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Job posting: 2016 Commuter Challenge Coordinator
by Beth McKechnie 16 Sep '15

16 Sep '15

*Come work with us! ** Please share widely *** Green Action Center is seeking an independent, energetic and well-organized individual to coordinate our annual Commuter Challenge and Jack Frost Challenge in Manitoba. Apply by 4pm, Friday, October 2nd. Read all about it <http://greenactioncentre.ca/about/jobs/> For those of you wondering about Jaret Olford (the 2015 coordinator), we are pleased to share that he is now working in our Environmental Speakers Bureau <http://greenactioncentre.ca/program/environmental-speakers-bureau/> program doing classroom presentations. His energy and enthusiasm will undoubtedly be appreciated by kids from classes K-12. cheers, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Webinar Reminder: Shared Streets, Slow Streets - Wed, Sept 16, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 15 Sep '15

15 Sep '15

***Friendly reminder regarding tomorrow afternoon's AT webinar*** Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the following APBP webinar: *Shared Streets, Slow Streets*. Should be a good one. The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Shared Streets, Slow Streets *Wednesday, Sept. 16th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Learning objectives: - Understand the theory behind Sustainable Safety, which has driven widespread adoption of 30-km (20 mph) zones in the Netherlands - Identify the principal elements necessary to design successful 30-km zones - Examine how design standards might be revised to allow for new spatial forms in North America This webinar explores the Dutch theory of Sustainable Safety (similar to Vision Zero) and the engineering and design principles underlying 30-km zones that permit different modes to share the streets safely. The session includes examples of shared street projects in North America, where these design principles have been adapted to local contexts. Sustainable Safety is a safe systems approach used in the Netherlands to prevent serious crashes and severe injury. This approach has reduced fatal traffic crashes by 30 percent between 1998 and 2008. As the details of Vision Zero initiatives are being developed, North American planners can learn from the mistakes and successes of the Dutch. The presentation introduces the underlying principles of Sustainable Safety and focuses on the design and engineering tools used to create streets where different modes can mix at speeds safe for all users. Case studies with both good and bad examples of 30-km zones are included; presenters also discuss examples of shared streets in North America. *Presenters*: - Dick van Veen, MSc. Eng, MSc. Arch, Mobycon BV - Brice Maryman, Senior Landscape Architect, SvR Design -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Posted speed limits on 387km of Toronto's roads change to 30km/hr
by Anders Swanson 15 Sep '15

15 Sep '15

CBC <http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/speed-limits-drop-to-30-km-h-on-some-…> Speed limits drop to 30 km/h on some residential streets Limit falls to 30/h in bid to make streets safer for pedestrians New signs are going up and speed limits are going down in parts of old Toronto and East York starting today. Many residential streets are seeing the top speed drop to 30 kilometres per hour, down from 40 km/h. A total of 387 kilometres of roads in East York in the old City of Toronto will make the switch starting today. Some 4,400 new 30 km/h signs will be going up on residential streets. One resident told CBC News he's happy to see the speed limit reduced. "There's children all over the place here and you have to be careful," he said. Toronto and East York community council unanimously voted for the change in June at a cost of $1.1 million. This followed the 2014 death of Georgia Walsh who was hit and killed <http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-girl-7-dies-after-being-hit-b…> by a van at Millwood and McRae in Leaside. Her death created a groundswell of support to bring down the speed limit. Critics of the change say bringing down the speed limit also requires greater enforcement on local roads. See also Toronto Star (June) <http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2015/06/22/30-km-h-limits-likely-for-…>

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Wpg Sun: Public asked to weigh in on active transportation projects (Sept.11'15)
by Beth McKechnie 14 Sep '15

14 Sep '15

Public asked to weigh in on active transportation projects http://www.winnipegsun.com/2015/09/11/public-asked-to-weigh-in-on-active-tr… The city is calling on the public to weigh in on three pedestrian and cycling projects. The city is hosting community consultations on three separate planned projects and looking for public input. The projects will target pedestrian and cycling improvements in downtown, West Alexander, and northwest Winnipeg. “These projects will make it safer, easier and more enjoyable for Winnipeggers to walk or ride a bike,” Scott Suderman, the city’s transportation facilities planning engineer, said in a statement. “They will improve transportation options for citizens of all ages and abilities, while ongoing public consultation will ensure the input of local stakeholders will be taken into account in the design of each project.” The projects are part of the pedestrian and cycling action plan that city council approved in May. The downtown project is a bike lane system that aims to connect The Forks to the Exchange District; in West Alexander, a pedestrian and cycling corridor would connect McPhillips Street to Sherbrook Street; and the third project would take an existing hydro corridor and create a pathway in the northwest region of the city. More information can be found at winnipeg.ca/walkbikeprojects.

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Ciclovia count anyone?
by Anders Swanson 11 Sep '15

11 Sep '15

Last year there was a coordinated count at a few locations along the Ciclovia route using CounterPoint <http://counterpointapp.org> our designed-in-Winipeg traffic counting app. I am curious what it will be like one year later. I'll personally be doing one for fun in the Mostyn-Balmoral-Westminster corridor, since I am convinced it would be Winnipeg's next great protected bike lane. *If anyone is planning on attending Ciclovia, has a smartphone, and wants to do a count from 1-3 at one of the counterpoints along the route, send an email to info(a)counterppointapp.org <info(a)counterppointapp.org>. * You can even try out the new gender bike count <https://www.facebook.com/CounterPointApp/photos/a.206350762875837.107374182…> and get some interesting results on the gender split instead. Or settle in and have some beers while counting bikes along the Sherbrook protected bike lane. You can even try one the following sunday to look for the dramatic difference. You might find that counting traffic is kinda fun, and certainly interesting to watch the all; the different types of people go by. Cheers, Anders CounterPoint/ManyFest Steering Committee

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Why is kids' bike safety soaring?
by Beth McKechnie 11 Sep '15

11 Sep '15

Very interesting Friday reading (with lots of graphs!) from the U.S. on the number of kids walking and biking compared with the 1970s, and the plummet in youth biking fatalities. Surprisingly, it's *not* because kids are biking less. Read on: http://www.peopleforbikes.org/blog/entry/why-is-kids-bike-safety-soaring-it… cheers, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Provincial climate change job posting
by Beth McKechnie 11 Sep '15

11 Sep '15

*Senior Policy Analyst* PM3 Program and Policy Analyst 3 Regular/full-time Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship Environmental Stewardship Division Winnipeg MB Advertisement Number: 30607 Salary(s): PM3 $60,314.00 - $75,804.00 per year Closing Date: September 14, 2015 Preference will be given to women, Aboriginal people, visible minorities and persons with a disability. Conservation and Water Stewardship is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the position of Senior Policy Analyst position. Qualifications: *Conditions of Employment:* · Must be legally entitled to work in Canada. · Must have a valid full stage Manitoba Class 5 Driver's Licence · Must be willing and able to travel throughout province and occasionally outside of Manitoba (Canada and the United States). *Essential Criteria:* · Post secondary education in Environmental Studies/Sciences, Political Sciences or an Economic related field, with related experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered. · Experience developing, implementing, managing and providing recommendations on complex projects and programs. · Strong written communication skills including experience preparing correspondence, reports and position papers with a high degree of accuracy. · Strong verbal communication skills including experience facilitating presentations to the public and stakeholder groups. · Strong interpersonal skills, including experience fostering collaboration and partnerships with a variety of internal and external stakeholder groups. · Strong research and analytical skills. · Experience working independently with strong organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize workloads, multi-task, and work on concurrent assignment with strict deadlines. · Strong political acumen. · Experience working with local, national and international climate change issues and trends including mitigation and adaptation. · Experience working with Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Outlook and PowerPoint. · Knowledge of legislation, policies and programs relating to climate change in Manitoba, including knowledge of key Green House Gas emitting sectors and sources in Manitoba. *Desired Criteria:* · Experience managing change and projects horizontally across multiple departments. Duties: This position is responsible for providing support cross-coordination of provincial climate change policy and programs and function as the cross-department lead on policy and programs that impact multiple government departments, agencies and Crown corporations. The incumbent will be an active member of regional and national committees and working groups related to federal climate change regulations. They will provide advice to senior officials on policies that could potentially conflict with climate change policy objectives. Apply to: Advertisement # 30607 Civil Service Commission Human Resource Services 300-305 Broadway Winnipeg, MB , R3C 3J7 Phone: 204-945-8615 Fax: 204-948-2193 Email: govjobs(a)gov.mb.ca *When applying to this advertisement, please indicate the advertisement number and position title in the subject line and body of your email.* Employment Equity is a factor in selection. Applicants are requested to indicate in their covering letter or resumé if they are from any of the following groups: women, Aboriginal people, visible minorities and persons with a disability. We thank all who apply and advise that only those selected for further consideration will be contacted. Your cover letter, resumé and/or application must clearly indicate how you meet the qualifications. http://jobsearch.gov.mb.ca/search.action

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AT Webinar: Shared Streets, Slow Streets - Wed, Sept 16, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 10 Sep '15

10 Sep '15

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the following APBP webinar: *Shared Streets, Slow Streets*. Should be a good one. The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Shared Streets, Slow Streets *Wednesday, Sept. 16th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Learning objectives: - Understand the theory behind Sustainable Safety, which has driven widespread adoption of 30-km (20 mph) zones in the Netherlands - Identify the principal elements necessary to design successful 30-km zones - Examine how design standards might be revised to allow for new spatial forms in North America This webinar explores the Dutch theory of Sustainable Safety (similar to Vision Zero) and the engineering and design principles underlying 30-km zones that permit different modes to share the streets safely. The session includes examples of shared street projects in North America, where these design principles have been adapted to local contexts. Sustainable Safety is a safe systems approach used in the Netherlands to prevent serious crashes and severe injury. This approach has reduced fatal traffic crashes by 30 percent between 1998 and 2008. As the details of Vision Zero initiatives are being developed, North American planners can learn from the mistakes and successes of the Dutch. The presentation introduces the underlying principles of Sustainable Safety and focuses on the design and engineering tools used to create streets where different modes can mix at speeds safe for all users. Case studies with both good and bad examples of 30-km zones are included; presenters also discuss examples of shared streets in North America. *Presenters*: - Dick van Veen, MSc. Eng, MSc. Arch, Mobycon BV - Brice Maryman, Senior Landscape Architect, SvR Design

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The Economist: Cities are starting to put pedesetrians and cyclists before motorists (05Sept2015)
by Beth McKechnie 04 Sep '15

04 Sep '15

Some inspiration leading up to our own Ciclovia <http://www.manyfest.ca/#!ciclovia/cbu2> happening Sunday, September 13, which for the first time will include a car-free route for Winnipeggers to bike, walk, inline skate, skateboard or whatever from Kildonan Park to The Forks in addition to the car-free route from The Forks to Assiniboine Park. Thanks to Dan Prowse for sharing this article. * * * * * Cities are starting to put pedestrians and cyclists before motorists. That makes them nicer—and healthier—to live in http://www.economist.com/news/international/21663219-cities-are-starting-pu… AT 6am on a sweltering Sunday the centre of Gurgaon, a city in northern India, is abuzz. Children queue for free bicycles to ride on a 4km stretch of road that will be cordoned off from traffic for the next five hours. Teenagers pedal about, taking selfies; middle-aged men and women jog by. On a stage, a black-belt demonstrates karate; yoga practice is on a quieter patch down the street. Weaving through the crowd dispensing road-safety tips is a traffic cop with a majestic moustache. Gurgaon’s weekly jamboree is called Raahgiri (“reclaim your streets”). Amit Bhatt of EMBARQ, a green think-tank, started it in 2013, inspired by Bogotá’s ciclovia, pictured above, for which Colombia’s capital closes 120km of streets on Sundays and holidays. Such events are part of a movement that is accelerating around the world. Cyclists and motorists have never liked sharing the road. In “A Cool and Logical Analysis of the Bicycle Menace”, P.J. O’Rourke, a car-loving comic, grumbles that “one cannot drive around a curve” without meeting a “suicidal phalanx” of “huffing bicyclers”. Casey Neistat, a New York cyclist who was fined $50 for not riding in a bike lane, made a film of himself crashing into some of the unkindly parked cars that so often make that impossible.From Guangzhou to Brussels to Chicago, cities are shifting their attention from keeping cars moving to making it easier to walk, cycle and play on their streets. Some central roads are being converted into pedestrian promenades, others flanked with cycle lanes. Speed limits are being slashed. More than 700 cities in 50 countries now have bike-share schemes; the number has grown by about half in the past three years. Many cities are exploring ways to keep petrolheads and pedalophiles apart. Over 100, particularly in Latin America, close some roads to cars on weekends. Paris is leading the way in Europe, closing over 30km; Dublin and Milan plan to banish cars from their centres. Even Los Angeles (a city Steve Martin, a comic actor, satirised by getting in his car to drive three paces to his neighbour’s house in “LA Story”) recently announced plans for hundreds of miles of bus and cycle lanes. In the rich world, these measures follow improvements in public transport—and congestion charges and other policies that make driving and parking in many cities a misery. The number of cars entering central London has dropped by a third since 2002. Three-fifths of Parisians owned a car in 2001; now two-fifths do. And some people are shifting from public transport to walking or cycling: a fifth as many journeys in London are now made by bike as on the Underground; 15 years ago, only a tenth were. All this makes cities safer and nicer, planners say. London hopes to attract footloose talent this way, says Isabel Dedring, its deputy mayor for transport. The International Transport Forum, a think-tank, predicts that by 2050 the world’s roads will have to cope with 2.5 billion cars and light trucks, three times as many as today. Almost all the growth will be in developing countries. Some cities are building rail and subway systems; others are creating rapid-bus lanes. India plans to expand or launch rapid transit in 50 cities. But safety is often neglected. The best way to get more people walking is to slow down traffic citywide, says Guillermo Peñalosa of 8 80 Cities, a Canadian lobby group. Slower traffic makes neighbourhoods quieter and safer. More than 80% of pedestrians hit by cars moving at 65kph die; at half that speed only 5% die. A 25mph (40kph) speed limit went into effect in New York last year. London recently cut the speed limit to 20mph on more than 280km of its roads and is getting rid of pedestrian-unfriendly giant roundabouts. In September Toronto will slow down traffic on more than 300km of its roads. Four wheels bad, two wheels good In cycling, Amsterdam and Copenhagen are the pacesetters, with a third of trips made by bicycle. More than half of Amsterdam’s residents use their bikes daily. London, New York and Paris all have plans to challenge them. All three cities are expanding their bike-share schemes and building new bike lanes, some on quiet roads with new, lower speed limits for cars, and others running through central areas and separated from motorised traffic. Such schemes can quickly convince more people to start pedalling. They are particularly popular with women, who transport planners say are more nervous than men about sharing roads with roaring traffic and typically make up less than a quarter of urban cyclists. In 2007-2010 the Spanish city of Seville built an 80km network of separated two-way bicycle lanes; the share of trips in the city that were by bicycle went from nearly zero to 7%. In Taipei few women cycled before its YouBike share scheme started in 2009; now they are half of the city’s cyclists. Bike-shares are spreading out beyond city centres and being linked with public transport, says Kevin Mayne of the European Cyclists’ Federation. In Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands some schemes are run by the railways. More than 100 cities have smartphone apps that show which docking stations have bicycles available. Riders of Copenhagen’s GoBike can plot routes and check travel bookings from an on-board GPS. Both bikes and public transport are more likely to be used when bike racks are placed on the front of buses, as in Boston and Washington, DC, and secure parking is provided at rail stations. In 2014 Britain’s transport ministry looked at recently built cycling and walking infrastructure in eight cities. Standard cost-benefit analyses for planned transport infrastructure include a value for the lives saved (or lost) through changes in the number of accidents. Using the same figures for the lives prolonged by increased activity, it found that the cost of the schemes was repaid three-fold—and again in reduced congestion. London’s authorities calculate that if every Londoner switched to walking for trips under 2km, and to cycling for trips of 2-8km, the share who got enough exercise to remain healthy simply by getting around would rise from 25% to 60%. That would amount to 61,500 years of healthy life gained each year. Even once-a-week exercise fiestas can boost health. A 2009 survey of participants in Bogotá’s Sunday ciclovias found that 42% of adults did as much exercise during the event as the World Health Organisation recommends for a week. (It ranks Colombia the world’s most sedentary country: see article <http://www.economist.com/news/international/21663218-sedentary-living-has-r…>.) Only 12% would have done so otherwise. Yet the health gains from walking and cycling rarely feature in transport plans—partly because the benefits are reaped by national health ministries (and the people who get fitter, of course), rather than the cities that build the infrastructure. Britain is trying to align incentives better. Last year London’s transport authority published a “transport health action plan”: a ten-year scheme, backed by £4 billion of government money, that will redesign streets along lines recommended by public-health experts. And the country’s National Health Service (NHS) wants to help cities that are building cheap housing complexes to include health-promoting features, such as cycle routes and playgrounds. As rich cities are, at last, undoing their past planning mistakes, activists in developing ones are trying to ensure that they are not repeated. They are lobbying for safe walking and cycling routes as well as better public transport, and for traffic laws to be enforced—before pollution and inactivity take their full toll. Convincing officials preoccupied with keeping cars moving can be tough: “This won’t work here,” one told Mr Bhatt when he proposed the*Raahgiri *and other ways to make Gurgaon’s streets more pedestrian-friendly. He persisted, getting 200 schoolchildren to cycle up to the city administration’s headquarters to demonstrate public support. His team has since also convinced the city to paint cycling lanes at the side of some streets; barriers will soon protect them from cars. One user is Dilip Grover, a 62-year-old manager of a small firm. Not having cycled since college, he rediscovered its joys after hopping on a free bike at the Raahgiri. He now cycles 10km to work. The Raahgiri has changed attitudes, he thinks: many drivers also participate and now think twice before honking at a pedestrian or jumping a traffic light. It is a small start. -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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8 lessons for [Winnipeg] from Montréal's bike culture
by Beth McKechnie 28 Aug '15

28 Aug '15

While written by a Vancouverite with his own city in mind, the lessons learned from Montréal are just as meaningful for Winnipeg. Great photos tell it all. http://www.vancitybuzz.com/2015/08/montreal-bike-culture-lessons-vancouver/ cheers, Beth

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Join a Global Gender-based Bike Count on September 1st
by Anders Swanson 26 Aug '15

26 Aug '15

OK Boys and Girls. Who wants to count bikes next Tuesday? *Join the world in doing a "Super Tuesday" count Tuesday, September 1st from 7am to 9am. * To help, the only qualification is owning a smartphone capable of using the free CounterPoint app <http://counterpointapp.org/>. And having a passion for change. Is Winnipeg in? Are you? *How it works: * You will be doing a two hours count of bicycles. You can pick or setup any new or existing location you like. (It can be Main Street or out your front window, wherever you like.) Your location gets to be compared with places around the world...and we'll be spreading the need to count bikes as traffic everywhere. Bicycle Network, Australia's national cycling advocacy organization, just commissioned us (Green Action Centre and the made-in-Winnipeg CounterPoint app) to create a special bikes only "gender" count. The goal is to make it easier to help the 10000s of Australians who already count bikes on this day annually, and to make the idea spread around the world. To see more about the Super Tuesday Global pilot project, or learn about the amazing success of this project in Australia, visit the Bicycle Network site page here. <https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/for-government-and-business/3533/> The count screen looks something like this: On the big day, go to your spot. Get comfy. Now, imagine that our eyes are gently-powered lazers. And that your eyes and fingers are the most accurate bicycle detector in the world. So accurate that your eyes can detect gender every bike that goes and give a pretty good guess at the person's gender...all whilst your fingers tap away on the right buttons on a screen. That's how the app works. Its better than Candy Crush. Try it, you'll love it. To participate in the Super Tuesday Global pilot project, visit the Bicycle Network site page here. <https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/for-government-and-business/3533/> Anders Swanson *The Counter*Point* Team* <http://counterpointapp.org> see us on... *Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/CounterPointApp> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/counterpointapp>* NOW: Download it from the AppStore free. Set up a counterpoint near you! <https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/counterpoint!/id895869606?mt=8>

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APBP's Professional Development Seminar in St.Louis
by Anders Swanson 17 Aug '15

17 Aug '15

[My apologies for neglecting to forward this to you prior to the early-bird deadline. Nonetheless, this a worthwhile professional development opportunity in and the largest walking/cycling conference in North America this year. -Anders] *From:* APBP [mailto:news=apbp.org@mail144.atl61.mcsv.net <news=apbp.org(a)mail144.atl61.mcsv.net>] *On Behalf Of *APBP *Sent:* Thursday, August 06, 2015 11:41 AM *To:* *Subject:* PDS Early Registration Extended to August 14! Register by August 14 for the best rates for the Professional Development Seminar Get the Best Rate for the Professional Development Seminar When You Register by August 14 *Professional Development Seminar | St. Louis, Missouri* * September 28 – October 1, 2015 Visit **apbppds.org <http://apbp.us8.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id…>* Focused on bicycling and walking policy, planning and design, APBP’s 9th Professional Development Seminar offers intensive learning for planners, engineers, advocates, municipal leaders, educators and students. Each 3-hour session at the PDS drills down into best practice and cutting edge thinking to teach strategies for transforming and connecting communities through cycling and walking. Join your colleagues in active transportation and sustainable, healthy living at this one-of-a-kind event. The Early Registration period has been extended to August 14 – Register now for the best rate! *Register Here* <http://apbp.us8.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id…> Preview the program <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…> The PDS program includes 20 classroom sessions, 8 mobile tours, 2 poster sessions, and these highlights: - One-minute Flash Presentations. Sample 10 great ideas; later—if you choose--join a round table discussion to explore them in depth - 3-hour sessions focused on topics such as separated bikeways and protected intersections, Complete Streets design exercises, Vision Zero, tactical urbanism, and measuring health impacts of active transportation - A full track devoted to integrating public health into transportation policy - Pre-conference walking and cycling tours of St. Louis plus mobile sessions that explore St. Louis’ historic riverfront, the Cahokia Mounds Trail, and neighborhood networks and their role in revitalizing and transforming the community *What people say about the Professional Development Seminar:* “It was well-run, the sessions were informative, and there were many great people there.” “The schedule was very intensive which was great. There were many options to choose from.” “The APBP PDS has been the best training that I have had in four years.” As a conference destination, St. Louis is affordable and easy to reach. Our conference venue is ideally located for exploring Forest Park and the city’s world class museums. And consider staying after the conference to take part in Lucky’s Ride <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…>, a bicycle tour of the Katy Trail that benefits Trailnet’s education programs. Visit apbppds.org <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…> and make your plans soon. The hotel room block <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…> is good through September 6; great rooms at great rates will go fast. Presenting Sponsor *Photo credit: TrailNet* [image: Facebook] <http://apbp.us8.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id…> Facebook <http://apbp.us8.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id…> [image: Twitter] <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…> Twitter <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…> [image: Website] <http://apbp.us8.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id…> Website <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…> *Copyright © 2015 Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals, All rights reserved.* You are receiving this email because you are an APBP member. *Our mailing address is:* Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals PO Box 93 Cedarburg, WI 53012 Add us to your address book <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/vcard?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=af001c…> unsubscribe from this list <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=…> update subscription preferences <http://apbp.us8.list-manage.com/profile?u=037c18ed2ef6f4b756191575e&id=af00…> The information transmitted is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain confidential and/or privileged material. Any review, transmission, dissemination or other use of, or taking of any action in reliance upon, this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please contact the sender and delete the material from any computers.

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WFP-The Herald: Active Transportation Bridge gets some recognition (Aug.7'15)
by Beth McKechnie 17 Aug '15

17 Aug '15

The Herald <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/herald>Active Transportation Bridge gets some recognition http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/herald/Active-Transportati… Two recent construction projects in Elmwood were recognized by the Canadian Public Works Association. The Disraeli Active Transportation Bridge received the Canadian Public Works Association (CPWA)’s 2014 Project of the Year award in the Transportation Category for a construction project valued at more than $5 million. "The Manitoba government is proud Winnipeggers can travel more easily and enjoy public space in healthy ways, thanks to investments like this one in the Disraeli Bridge," Minister of Labour and Immigration Erna Braun said in a statement. "Investments in public infrastructure help build stronger communities and a better quality of life for all Manitobans." "The Disraeli Active Transportation Bridge is a key artery of active transportation in our city and has already served our citizens well," Coun. Janice Lukes (South Winnipeg-St. Norbert), chair of the Standing Policy Committee on Infrastructure Renewal and Public Works, said in a statement. "Active transportation is important for the health, well-being and economic development of our city, and we look forward to expanding our active transportation networks in other areas of Winnipeg." The City of Winnipeg’s Public Works East Yard Complex — located on Thomas Avenue south of Nairn Avenue — was also honoured by the CPWA in the Environmental Category. The yard’s long-term sustainability has been recognized with a LEED Gold Certification. Facebook.com/TheHeraldWPG <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/herald/Facebook.com/TheHer…> Twitter: @heraldWPG <https://twitter.com/HeraldWPG>

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AT Webinar: Streetscape Design to Improve Walking and Cycling, Wed, Aug 19, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 17 Aug '15

17 Aug '15

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the following APBP webinar: *Streetscape Design to Improve Walking and Cycling*. The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Streetscape Design to Improve Walking and Cycling *Wednesday, August 19th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Learn how thoughtful streetscape design improves the function, enhances safety, and boosts the aesthetic and ecological qualities of a street. This session explores best practices in streetscape design and how two different cities approach issues of policy, zoning and retrofitting. In Burnaby, B.C., comprehensive guidelines support a broad range of outcomes to integrate pedestrian, cyclist, transit and driving networks with the sustainable storm water, urban forestry, street lighting, public art and place-making functions of accessible, complete streets. Learn about the multi-disciplinary process that built these guidelines, which are based on existing plans and policies that support environmental, social and economic sustainability. San Francisco’s WalkFirst initiative aims to improve pedestrian safety. Learn about the methodology developed to prioritize retrofitting projects in order to create the greatest benefit within the constraints of limited funding. *Presenters*: - Stuart Ramsey, Manager, Transportation Planning, City of Burnaby, B.C. - Grahm Satterwhite, Manager, Complete Streets Planning, San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency - Ian Wasson, Urban Design Planner, City of Burnaby, B.C.

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BIZ BIZ TEDx?
by Anders Swanson 11 Aug '15

11 Aug '15

[Think about it: Assiniboine is currently the Portage Avenue for people on bikes. Winnipeg Trails' email account often gets asked :"We are headed out on our bikes, where can we go for coffee/grab a drink along Winnipeg Trails?" Modern north american zoning is traditionally oriented around roads (think how arterial roads are typically also commercial corridors). Increasingly, the possibilities of transit spurring similar development (think transit quality zones/TOD) is becoming better understood. Pedestrians, of course, are occasionally integrated into the equation esp. in urban areas (increased density, mixed use). However, what about bicycles. Whjat about the opportunities created by new trails. There is little known about the potential of new businesses to take advantage of the places that people on bikes stop. Here is an interesting idea from two business owners who've made $ along pathways; they think we need to start thinking about a new category of commercial zoning: bike-in zoning. - Anders ] *Bike-In Zoning* "Linda Thorne and Lanny Tonning have stumbled upon an excellent idea: specific zoning for businesses that wish to cater primarily to cyclists, especially along existing multi-use trails. https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=81&v=l-YxtMoXv1U"

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WFP: Couple travels the world by bike – without leaving the city (Aug.4'15)
by Beth McKechnie 04 Aug '15

04 Aug '15

How to cycle the world in 14 days? Hint: you don't leave Winnipeg *http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/how-to-cycle-the-world-in-14-days-weeks-320576622.html <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/how-to-cycle-the-world-in-14-days-we…>* They’re pedalling around the world in 14 days. Newly engaged Michael Horbay and Lisa Kappel, both 45, are self-described "avid" cyclists and runners. In summers past, their bikes have taken them across the city, from Bombers games to The Forks and places between. Last year, they cycled to 14 different Folklorama pavilions. This year, they’re hoping to top that, biking to all of the 43 pavilions the festival offers. "Second day in, it’s been an awesome adventure and we’re just, Lisa and I are just pumped," said Horbay Monday evening, the second night of the festival. Already, he and his fiancee had been to three pavilions — Germany, Hungary and Ethiopia — and were about to head out to three more: the Philippines, Portugal and Spain. For two weeks every summer, Folklorama’s pavilions offer Winnipeggers a peek into cultures from all over the globe. Last year’s festival brought out more than 400,000 visitors to the 43 venues, run by more than 20,000 volunteers. Now celebrating its 46th birthday, the festival’s 2015 run began Sunday and will wrap up on Aug. 15. In that time, Horbay and Kappel estimate they will cycle more than 400 kilometres — logging just over 30 the first night and assuming the next 13 will be similar — and catching between two and four shows a day. You’ll be able to spot them by their bright red T-shirts, branded "Cycling Folklorama #seeitall." "Folklorama means a lot to us," said Kappel on Monday. "It’s a chance to experience a holiday within our own city. We get to see the world on our bikes." After sampling a handful of pavilions by bike last year and loving it, Kappel said she and Horbay decided to get serious this time round. "This year, we actually took holidays and re-arranged our schedules for the weeks to make it out to all of (the pavilions)," she said. "Michael sat down, and we got the Folklorama (guide), and a lot of the pavilions are kind of grouped together. We picked the furthest one of the grouping and then we go to the other ones after that." Horbay said the biggest motivation to ride to each event is pretty simple. "You know, cycling is, first of all, a lot of fun," he said. There’s also the added layer of convenience: no worries about finding parking, and Horbay said staff at the pavilions have been "extremely gracious" in helping store the cycles safely — plus, there’s no traffic. Kappel added she appreciates that cycling is easier on the environment than driving around in a car, and both value the chance to challenges themselves and get some exercise. The pair will be tweeting about their journey, using the hashtags #michaelandlisafitnessfun and #seeitall — a challenge in itself, Horbay noted. "The cycling is the easy part, it’s all the social media we have to keep up on," he quipped. More than anything, Kappel said she hopes other Winnipeggers are inspired to catch a Folklorama show — by bike or otherwise. "I think sometimes we (Winnipeggers) tend to not take advantage of things that are offered at home," she said. "We just want to encourage Winnipeggers to get out there on their bikes and to take advantage of what the city has to offer right here at home." aidan.geary(a)freepress.mb.ca *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition August 4, 2015 A2*

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WFP: Councillors hire lawyer to persuade re-vote on contentious transportation plan (Aug1'15)
by Beth McKechnie 01 Aug '15

01 Aug '15

[sigh..] Councillors hire lawyer to persuade re-vote on contentious transportation plan http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/Councillors-hire-lawyer-to-p-3203271… A trio of Winnipeg city councillors opposed to portions of the city’s controversial pedestrian and cycling strategy are calling for a re-vote after they produced a legal opinion that found there were no grounds to block debate to the amendments they were proposing. Couns. Russ Wyatt, Ross Eadie and Jason Schreyer hired local lawyer Dave Hill following the July 15 council meeting, where Speaker Devi Sharma — on the advice of the city clerk — refused to allow debate on the 20 amendments to the strategy. Sharma ruled the city’s procedure bylaw limits the number of amendments to a motion to two, and that was taken up by two friendly amendments already put forward by Couns. Scott Gillingham and Jenny Gerbasi. Schreyer immediately rose to challenge Sharma’s ruling, but he couldn’t muster enough support from other councillors to support him. But in a written report to the three councillors, Hill said he could find no provisions in the procedure bylaw to support Sharma’s ruling and added perhaps the motion approving the strategy was illegal because council had broken its own rules by refusing debate on all the amendments. "I am not surprised there is now legal opinion backing up my challenge of the Speaker," Schreyer (Elmwood-East Kildonan) said. Wyatt (Transcona) said he hopes the legal opinion is enough to persuade Mayor Brian Bowman to bring the strategy back to council for another vote. "All we want is our amendments to be considered," Wyatt said Friday. The three councillors said they used their ward allowance funds to hire Hill, explaining his legal bill is expected to be in the range of $500 to $750. "It’s a travesty that well-thought-out amendments were denied democratic debate," Eadie (Mynarski) said. Bowman’s office said the mayor was unavailable for comment Friday. City clerk Richard Kachur said council has always interpreted Section 27 of the procedure bylaw as limiting the number of amendments to any motion to two. "I didn’t have to get a legal opinion, it’s always been interpreted this way for the past 20 years," Kachur said. "There’s been lots of practice and precedent to support this. This is how council conducts itself." Council’s July 15 meeting was a wild affair, with Wyatt storming out of the chambers after Sharma blocked debate on the 20 amendments. Wyatt ran to the mayor’s office and taped a copy of each amendment to his glass door and wrote "democracy denied" on each document. At the July 15 meeting, Sharma ruled only the first two amendment motions tabled for an item can be debated and voted on. She said, based on advice from the city clerk, that if more motions are added for debate, it requires a two-thirds vote of council to suspend the rules and allow the debate on the additional amendments. Only Wyatt, Eadie, Schreyer, Jeff Browaty and Shane Dobson voted to suspend the rules. That council meeting culminated a month-long campaign by Wyatt, Eadie and Browaty to gather support for changes to the strategy. They had singled out errors in the maps that marked out pedestrian and cycling routes. They even took out radio ads promoting their concerns. aldo.santin(a)freepress.mb.ca

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Friday smile: Everyday Cyclists' New Hero (Momentum)
by Beth McKechnie 31 Jul '15

31 Jul '15

For a Friday laugh, check out this video from Sao Paulo that's making the rounds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luNGjffDjCs Read the full story <http://momentummag.com/this-man-lifting-a-car-is-every-frustrated-bike-rider> in Momentum Magazine how this fellow lifts a car (by hand) out of a bike lane so he can cycle through. -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Heat-sensitive map
by Patman, David 29 Jul '15

29 Jul '15

Given Winnipeg's climate, this would be useful here for wayfinding (with both cold weather and hot weather info.) http://www.citylab.com/navigator/2015/07/a-map-that-adapts-to-the-weather/3… David Patman, P. Eng. Transit Planner Winnipeg Transit | Service Development Division 421 Osborne Street | Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 2A2 P: 204-986-5737 | dpatman(a)winnipeg.ca<mailto:dpatman@winnipeg.ca>

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National Association of Realtors (US): Millennials favor walkable communities
by Beth McKechnie 29 Jul '15

29 Jul '15

Millennials Favor Walkable Communities, Says New NAR Poll Jul 28, 2015, 12:46 ET from National Association of Realtors <http://www.prnewswire.com/news/national+association+of+realtors> http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/millennials-favor-walkable-communit… WASHINGTON, July 28, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Millennials prefer walking over driving by a substantially wider margin than any other generation, according to a new poll conducted by the National Association of Realtors® and the Transportation Research and Education Center at Portland State University. The *2015* *National Community and Transportation Preference* *Survey* <http://www.realtor.org/reports/nar-2015-community-preference-survey> found that millennials, those aged 18-34, prefer walking as a mode of transportation by 12 percentage points over driving. Millennials are also shown to prefer living in attached housing, living within walking distance of shops and restaurants, and having a short commute, and they are the most likely age group to make use of public transportation. The poll also found that millennials show a stronger preference than other generations for expanding public transportation and providing transportation alternatives to driving, such as biking and walking, while also increasing the availability of trains and buses. Millennials likewise favor developing communities where people do not need to drive long distances to work or shop. "Realtors® don't only sell homes, they sell neighborhoods and communities," said NAR President Chris Polychron, executive broker with 1st Choice Realty in Hot Springs, Ark. "Realtors® aid in improving and revitalizing neighborhoods with smart growth initiatives, helping create walkable, urban centers, which is what more Americans want in their neighborhoods. While there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all community, more and more homebuyers are expressing interest in living in mixed-used, transit-accessible communities." As a whole, the survey found that Americans prefer walkable communities more so than they have in the past. Forty-eight percent of respondents reported that they would prefer to live in communities containing houses with small yards but within easy walking distance of the community's amenities, as opposed to living in communities with houses that have large yards, but they have to drive to all amenities. And while 60 percent of adults surveyed live in detached, single-family homes, 25 percent of those respondents said they would rather live in an attached home and have greater walkability. When choosing a new home, respondents indicated that they would like choices when it comes to their community's transportation options. Eighty-five percent of survey participants said that sidewalks are a positive factor when purchasing a home, and 79 percent place importance on being within easy walking distance of places. Women in particular value walkability in their communities, with 61 percent indicating that having sidewalks with stores and restaurants to walk to is very important. When it comes to respondents' thoughts on transportation priorities for the government, 83 percent indicated that maintaining and repairing roads and bridges should be a high priority, with expanding roads to help alleviate or reduce congestion as the next highest priority, at 60 percent. While consumers' top two concerns are related to driving, over half of survey participants stated that expanding public transit and providing convenient alternatives to driving should also be high priorities. TREC's research on active transportation and urban housing choices provided a foundation to build upon in working with NAR for this poll. "It's great to work with an organization that reaches so many professionals and has such an effect on people as they decide where to live," said Jennifer Dill, director of TREC. "This poll shows again how strong a role transportation plays in housing decisions." The survey of 3,000 adult Americans living in the 50 largest metropolitan areas was conducted by American Strategies and Meyers Research in May 2015 and analyzed by researchers at Portland State University. TREC, the Transportation Research and Education Center at Portland State University, produces timely, practical research useful to transportation decision makers and supports the education of future transportation professionals. TREC houses the National Institute for Transportation and Communities, the Initiative for Bicycle and Pedestrian Innovation and the Portal transportation data archive. The National Association of Realtors®, "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing 1 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. *Information about NAR is available at **www.realtor.org* <http://www.realtor.org/>*. This and other news releases are posted in the "News, Blogs and Videos" tab on the website.* **

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AT Webinar Reminder: How Rapid Transformation Delivers Bike-Friendly Streets, 2-3pm, Wed, July 29, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 28 Jul '15

28 Jul '15

*** Friendly reminder about tomorrow's webinar *** Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP and Green Lane Project webinar: *How Rapid Transformation Delivers Bike-Friendly Urban Streets*. The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** How Rapid Transformation Delivers Bike-Friendly Urban Streets *Wednesday, July 29th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Explore how the concept and practice of rapid implementation is evolving and has altered the way cities develop and deliver urban street projects. This webinar previews a new report from PeopleForBikes on the institutionalization of real-time transportation programs and shows how the techniques are becoming embedded as normal practice within city governments. A developing project delivery technique is transforming the way cities put new bicycle facilities on the ground. Presently identified with pilot projects and rapid implementation, real-time transportation programs are progressing rapidly from outlier status to status quo. PeopleForBike’s research indicates that no two cities have established and evolved these programs in quite the same way, suggesting that the technique is flexible and easily adaptable. The report also delves into the role of leadership and different scenarios for selling the approach. This webinar reviews the origins of rapid implementation and discusses institutional settings, relationships with other parts of transportation, planning and public works departments, the process of project development, relationship to capital programs, and emerging issues. Speakers from Pittsburgh and Seattle provide insight based on their cities’ experience. *Speakers:* - Dongho Chang, City of Seattle - Jon Orcutt, PeopleForBikes - Kristin Saunders, City of Pittsburgh

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Changes to TOD ordinances in Chicago
by Patman, David 27 Jul '15

27 Jul '15

Interesting ideas in Chicago: Increasing the area zoned for TOD & making it acceptable to provide bike parking instead of vehicle parking... http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-cta-housing-bicycles-0727-biz-201… David Patman, P. Eng. Transit Planner Winnipeg Transit | Service Development Division 421 Osborne Street | Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 2A2 P: 204-986-5737 | dpatman(a)winnipeg.ca<mailto:dpatman@winnipeg.ca>

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AT Webinar: How Rapid Transformation Delivers Bike-Friendly Streets, 2-3pm, Wed, July 29, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 23 Jul '15

23 Jul '15

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP and Green Lane Project webinar: *How Rapid Transformation Delivers Bike-Friendly Urban Streets*. The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** How Rapid Transformation Delivers Bike-Friendly Urban Streets *Wednesday, July 29th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Explore how the concept and practice of rapid implementation is evolving and has altered the way cities develop and deliver urban street projects. This webinar previews a new report from PeopleForBikes on the institutionalization of real-time transportation programs and shows how the techniques are becoming embedded as normal practice within city governments. A developing project delivery technique is transforming the way cities put new bicycle facilities on the ground. Presently identified with pilot projects and rapid implementation, real-time transportation programs are progressing rapidly from outlier status to status quo. PeopleForBike’s research indicates that no two cities have established and evolved these programs in quite the same way, suggesting that the technique is flexible and easily adaptable. The report also delves into the role of leadership and different scenarios for selling the approach. This webinar reviews the origins of rapid implementation and discusses institutional settings, relationships with other parts of transportation, planning and public works departments, the process of project development, relationship to capital programs, and emerging issues. Speakers from Pittsburgh and Seattle provide insight based on their cities’ experience. *Speakers:* - Dongho Chang, City of Seattle - Jon Orcutt, PeopleForBikes - Kristin Saunders, City of Pittsburgh

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CBC: Helmet camera catches close call between Winnipeg cyclist and bus
by Beth McKechnie 23 Jul '15

23 Jul '15

Helmet camera catches close call between Winnipeg cyclist and bus A close call caught on camera between a Winnipeg cyclist and bus has a cycling instructor calling for the bus driver to be fired. "It was definitely scary," said Al Paul, who captured the incident on a camera mounted on his helmet. Paul said the near hit happened at about 7:10 am Monday morning when he was commuting by bike to his downtown job. *Full article and video*: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/helmet-camera-catches-close-call-bet…

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Rossland BC drops speed limit to 30km/h
by Beth McKechnie 23 Jul '15

23 Jul '15

Rossland, B.C. Speed Limit Dropped To 30 Km/H http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2015/07/22/rossland-bc-speed-limit_n_7852790.h… A southeastern city in B.C. is bucking the trend to raise speed limits and is actually slowing traffic down to 30 km/h. The city of Rossland, B.C. <http://www.rossland.ca/new-speed-policy-rossland> announced the local speed limit change last week. Maximum speeds in the city are dropping to 30 km/h, with schools zones and narrow streets at 20 km/h and drop-off areas at 15 km/h. The changes are in response to years of public safety concerns, as well as part of the traffic calming effort in the area, according to a city news release. "Council took a look at it, and we decided that yeah, 30 kilometres an hour is plenty fast <http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/rossland-speed-limit-drops-t…>," Rossland Mayor Kathy Moore told CBC Radio. It's also meant to encourage people to walk or ride bikes more often. Despite the slower pace, the city said nearly everyone will be able to reach a main provincial highway within three minutes of leaving their home. Last summer, the provincial government raised the speed limit on some highways <http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2014/07/02/highway-speed-limit-bc_n_5552447.ht…> to 120 km/h from 110.

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Metro: Winnipeg's new pedestrian and cycling strategy, by the numbers
by Beth McKechnie 14 Jul '15

14 Jul '15

Winnipeg’s new pedestrian and cycling strategy, by the numbers By Colin Fast <http://metronews.ca/author/cfast/> http://metronews.ca/voices/your-ride-winnipeg/1425450/winnipegs-new-pedestr… As council prepares for its final (God willing) debate over the city’s new pedestrian and cycling strategy on Wednesday, it’s a good time to look at some of the key numbers surrounding this initiative: *— $334 million. *That’s the total price tag for the strategy. While it sounds like a lot, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, that‘s spread out over 20 years to build multi-use paths, greenways, protected bike lanes, sidewalks and pedestrian bridges all over town. And second, that funding might never actually materialize, as city council would have to approve capital funding for active transportation projects every single year based on what money is available in the budget. And while opponents say that’s too much to spend on bike paths, here’s another number to keep in mind … *— Five billion.* That’s what the city’s Transportation Master Plan will cost in the next 20 years. And that’s not for fixing existing infrastructure — that’s for new roads, bridges, underpasses and rapid transit lines. So that means walking and cycling projects only account for about 6.7 per cent of the total transportation wish list, which is a lot lower than … *— Nine per cent.* That’s the current share of Winnipeggers who use walking or cycling as their primary form of transportation each morning, according to that very same Transportation Master Plan. So it appears the city isn’t proposing to spend “too much” on active transportation, but actually not enough. The problem gets even worse when you consider this statistic … *— Forty-seven per cent.* That’s the percentage of Winnipeggers who said in a phone survey they would cycle more often if the city built more separated bike lanes. That’s right, this strategy wasn’t just created by a cabal of consultants and cycling elitists on Twitter, but actual scientific polling was done to figure out whether people were interested in biking and walking more. Speaking of walking … *— Fifty-three per cent.* That’s the share of people who said they would walk more often if the city filled in the gaps in the cycling network. And if the city actually goes ahead with this plan, maybe they could walk to one of … 3,800 new construction and engineering jobs. According to a University of Massachusetts study, cycling projects create 11.4 local jobs for every $1 million spent, while pedestrian projects create about 10 jobs for the same amount of money. Multiplied by $334 million, that’s a lot of additional employment and economic activity. Interestingly, the same study said road projects only generate 7.8 jobs for every $1 million. And if all that’s not enough to convince councillors, then here’s one last figure for them: 142 years. That’s how long it has taken for Winnipeg to finally come up with a comprehensive plan to get more people walking and biking. It’s time to get this city moving. *Colin Fast is a communications specialist and freelance journalist in Winnipeg. Out of guilt, he avoided looking directly at his unused bike while writing this column. Find him @policyfrog on Twitter.*

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Playing, with fire: How much risk should we expose our kids to?
by Beth McKechnie 14 Jul '15

14 Jul '15

Letting children slip the leash and engage in risky outdoor play offers huge benefits to physical, emotional and social health, says Mariana Brussoni, an assistant professor at the University of British Columbia’s school of population and public health. Brussoni is lead author of a review of play research published last week in the *International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health <http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25023135>*. Overprotective parenting and tediously safe playgrounds contribute to a decline in rough-and-tumble play and a generation of sedentary children. The report concludes: “There is a need for action to slow or reverse the trend in order to promote and preserve children’s health.” http://www.macleans.ca/society/life/playing-with-fire-how-much-risk-should-…

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New reports: Active Cities and State of Walking Movement in Canada
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jul '15

13 Jul '15

Thanks to Jaymi Derrett for sharing the following two new reports: *Designed to Move: Active Cities* A new report, *Designed to Move: Active Cities* <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001sSzFkjCHriLo0e2HUsB-iMemcooqSuaq3xztKCiOEPKs…>, is a blueprint for city leaders in creating an active city, regardless of city size or location. The report shows that cities with physically active populations are not only more economically competitive - they also benefit from increased productivity, improved school performance, higher property values, and improved health and well-being. *State of the Walking Movement in Canada* The State of the Walking Movement in Canada: Survey Summary Report <file:///C:/Users/Owner/Desktop/State-of-Walking-in-Canada-Survey-Summary-Report_final_2015.pdf> is the presentation of findings collected from The State of the Walking Movement in Canada Survey. The survey investigated the practices, resources, and needs of groups and organizations across Canada that promote walking and plan for walkability. Acquiring this information is of timely importance due to the increasing reliance on the private automobile, and increasing rates of chronic illness throughout the country, to which walking can combat. cheers, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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AT Webinar: Health in All Policies, Wed, July 15th, 2-3:15pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jul '15

13 Jul '15

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP webinar: *Health in All Policies*. The presentations will include how this approach can increase prioritization of active transportation and explore different tools for quantifying the health benefits of bicycle and pedestrian projects. The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Health in All Policies *Wednesday, July 15th, 2-3:15pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* *Learning objectives: * - Define Health in All Policies - Describe model policies and tools to implement the HiAP approach to active transportation - Identify and understand analytical tools for evaluating the health benefits of nonmotorized transportation investments Health in All Policies provides a way for policymakers – at all levels and across all agencies – to systematically consider health in their policy development efforts. With local government facing tremendous budget constraints, HiAP offers a cost-effective approach that focuses on improving existing programs, policies and projects (rather than creating new programs that require additional funding). Learn how adopting a Health in All Policies approach can result in enhanced collaboration between agencies and increase prioritization of active transportation. California's unique statewide, multi-agency Health in All Policies Task Force is in the vanguard of this new planning approach. Speakers describe how the task force has promoted a coordinated approach to statewide active transportation initiatives, explain how to replicate the HiAP approach in any community, and review a toolkit of model policies to establish Health in All Policies at the local level. The session also identifies and explores different tools for quantifying the health benefits of bicycle and pedestrian projects. *Presenters:* - Sean Co, Toole Design Group - Meredith Lee, California Department of Public Health - Dr. Sandra Whitehead, National Association of County and City Health Officials - Heather Wooten, ChangeLab Solutions

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EPC Wednesday
by Anders Swanson 06 Jul '15

06 Jul '15

The latest post on winnipegtrails.ca http://www.winnipegtrails.ca/another-opportunity-to-have-a-say-epc-wednesda… ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE A SAY: EPC WEDNESDAY JULY 8TH PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLING STRATEGIES There is one more opportunity to speak about the cycling and walking strategies at committee before they are sent to council for adoption. The strategies are appearing in front of the Executive Policy Committee on Wednesday, July 8th: West Committee Room Council Building, City Hall, 510 Main Street 9:00am Here is the agenda <http://clkapps.winnipeg.ca/dmis/ViewDoc.asp?DocId=14504&SectionId=&InitUrl=>. (look for bullet 4 in the public works committee report section). *If you wish to register to speak (We urge you to come out and express your views: Whether you speak for or against, please consider attending. It is always valuable to exercise your democratic right to speak. You can register to speak by emailing the committee clerk, Carlos Gameiro, at CGameiro[a]winnipeg.ca <http://winnipeg.ca>. Note: If you are working that day or otherwise too busy to attend, note that you can also send a letter to the above email and have it included in the register and officially submitted to the committee. * To recap: We have been following this closely and are very much looking forward to Winnipeg having vision for cycling and walking. While this is far from the last time to give input (all recommendations and projects in the strategies are subject to extensive consultation and further research and approval), we look forward to – for the first time – operating in a city with an official mandate that takes walking and cycling (and scooters, wheelchairs, skateboards and strollers) seriously. [image: NortheastPioneersGreeway1] You can read all about the pedestrian and cycling strategies here. <http://www.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/MajorProjects/ActiveTransportation/WalkB…> Since 2003, Winnipeg Trails has been working with you to create a connected network of trails and protected bicycle facilities throughout Winnipeg, for everyone. All of our partners, including the City of Winnipeg, the Province of Mantioba, NGOs, stewardship groups, firms, private businesses and clubs have begun to envision walking and cycling for what it is: extremely important to the fabric of our city. Until now, we have often helped target connectivity based on when/if funding was available, sought expertise and network planning where we could find it and built trails where space could be found. In general, without an official plan, you do the best you can with what you have. Our vast network of skilled and knowledgeable individuals and groups have done tremendous things, but we all recognized we were ready for the next step. At our most recent strategic planning session, there was unanimous consent on two things: the need for more connectivity and the importance of these cycling and walking strategies. We are not alone. Cities across Canada have been developing walking and biking plans in haste. We need one too. And we need ours to be on the leading edge. There are incredible advantages to walking and cycling seriously – not the least of which is that it offers mode choice and improves the efficiency all other modes of transportation – including bussing and driving. Cities are also in competition with each other – for investment, for tourists, for innovation, for taxpayers. It is very important to recognize that liveability is an extremely important metric for businesses looking to locate and stay. Keeping ones skilled workforce, and youth, is critical. Investing in walking and cycling means investing in a city that is modern, vibrant and forward-thinking. When it comes to transportation, it can be quite simple: give people a choice, make it equitable, make it inexpensive, make it easy, make it good for the environment, make it cool, make it healthy and make it fun. Win, win, win, win, win, win, win. [image: OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA] The best cycling and walking environments are created when they are treated as an essential service like any other part of the transportation system. In 2010, Winnipeg finally began to live up to its potential and spent more per capita on cycling and walking than almost anywhere else in the world. Cycling numbers jumped in the years thereafter and sparked a bike boom that we are still seeing growing today. So many people are out walking on key trails that they are nearly shoulder to shoulder in busy times. Much can be accomplished with stakeholder input and councillor guidance, but it was recognized that Winnipeg needed a long term vision based on community, councillor *and* professional input (for the same underlying reasons that automobiles and transit networks require a long term plan).. Soon after 2010, as part of the Our Winnipeg, Winnipeg released a master transportation plan for automobiles and buses. One of its key recommendations was the development of separate walking and cycling strategies (presumably there wasn’t enough time/budget to do the extensive consultations and work required to address these modes properly at the time). This process (the development of the cycling and walking strategies) began a couple years after the larger transportation master plan was finished and adopted. Consultants were hired, it was briefly cancelled, then reinstated due to popular demand and, ploddingly, the process began to move forward. The report received input in numerous ways. Strategically located open houses were advertised broadly. Thousands of Winnipeggers took the time to fill out exhaustive surveys. Comprehensive and impartial telephone polls reached hundreds of random people who might not have taken the time to respond to surveys or attend open houses. The results of the random polling confirmed what we suspected all along – trails and protected bike lanes are popular, walking is important, and people want safe and connected trails in order to feel comfortable exploring the city they love. It also determined that there is a vast pool of “interested but concerned” people who are simply awaiting investment in safe infrastructure. They may not read the paper, or show up at trails meetings, but if you build it, they said they’d come. As the Winnipeg Trails Association, we have seen it in action. Representatives from Winnipeg trails joined a large and diverse group of stakeholders from numerous different communities and causes including environmental, cycling, seniors, real estate and development, business, Universal Design and Accessibility, who were honoured to sit on the Stakeholder Advisory committee for two years as these strategies were developed. As the consultants did their work, Winnipeg Trails representatives were asked to give approximately 16 hours of their time each to sit on various review committees, attend large stakeholder workshops and raise awareness of the open houses. They offered their non-binding input and feedback, giving the consultants valuable insight. In a rare development, even young children were consulted in the preparation of this plan. A special workshop was developed locally just for them, where internationally-respected planners joined WTA, local NGOs and school children themselves to do their own version of the walking and cycling consultations – in a language they could understand. For once, even those under 16 we’re included in discussions on changes that affect them. They were, understandably, all for more trails. [image: YRibbon1] Most recently, a review of the consultation work <http://www.cbc.ca/m/touch/canada/manitoba/story/1.3081263> determined that the consultation met international best practices for community consultation – and confirmed what senior officials were saying – that all cycling and walking projects done as part of the plan would have built-in and extensive consultation as part of the design process. The upside of recent media stories is that they too have drummed up a high level of interest. We are now at the point where almost no one in Winnipeg remains unaware of this exciting issue! Nonetheless, the fact remains that roads in Winnipeg are still missing sidewalks, our trails are too-often sparse in key areas and disconnected, and many of our bike paths simply end. Demand is far outpacing supply and we need to catch up. It is time to move forward. a message from Anders Swanson Coordinator, Winnipeg Trails Association

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Protected bike lanes across Canada
by Anders Swanson 29 Jun '15

29 Jun '15

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/special/editors-picks/out-of-harms-way-310…

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WFP: Sno job for citizens? City to consider requiring residents to keep sidewalks shovelled (Jun24'15)
by Beth McKechnie 24 Jun '15

24 Jun '15

Snow job for citizens?City to consider requiring residents to keep sidewalks shovelled http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/breakingnews/snow-job-for-citizens-3094641… The burden of clearing snow from city sidewalks may soon fall onto the shovels of Winnipeg homeowners. Residential walks are currently cleared of snow by the city, but support is growing at city hall to follow the practice of most other Canadian cities, which force homeowners to shovel the city's walks and fine those who refuse. "We typically look at it annually during the budgeting process," said Brad Sacher, director of public works, adding the city spends hundreds of thousands of dollars every winter clearing sidewalks. "We're asked to look at what kind of efficiencies we can find, and this one sticks out like a sore thumb because so many other cities do it this way." Coun. Janice Lukes, chairwoman of the public works committee, said if Sacher doesn't raise the issue in a pending cost-benefit analysis of snow clearing, she will make sure it becomes part of the public debate. "We should put the facts on the table about what it costs," Lukes (St. Norbert) said. "We're one of the very few cities that do it." The issue surfaced after it was discovered it was included as part of a 20-year pedestrian and cycling strategy. Buried in the 344-page report was a recommendation the city end its practice of clearing residential sidewalks and instead require homeowners to do it and fine those who don't. Residential sidewalks "should become the responsibility of every owner or occupant of any building abutting the public sidewalk," the recommendation in the pedestrian and cycling strategy report states. "These sidewalks should be cleared within 24 hours of end of snowfall and should be shovelled to bare pavement... "Penalties should be imposed on residents who fail to clear their sidewalk." Public works acknowledges some people -- particularly seniors and those with mobility issues -- may not be able to clear their own sidewalks in winter, and recommends initiatives to assist those individuals, including a "snow angels" program -- neighbours and volunteers who shovel works for those physically unable. Transcona Coun. Russ Wyatt told the committee the recommendations on sidewalk snow clearing should be removed from the strategy document, but the committee accepted the report in its entirety and it now heads to council for consideration. In addition to sidewalk snow clearing, city streets are cleared down to the bare pavement, from curb to curb. There was a public uproar when a consulting firm reviewed the public works department operations and said city hall could save money if it didn't clear the streets from curb to curb. The suggestion was never adopted. Sacher said the sidewalk snow-clearing issue found its way into the strategy document after it was raised by residents during the public consultation process. Sacher said some residents said they'd prefer to shovel the walk in front of their homes instead of waiting for city crews to do the work a week after a snowstorm. aldo.santin(a)freepress.mb.ca *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 24, 2015 B1* JUST TO BE CLEAR... WINNIPEG isn't the first Canadian city to consider DIY snow clearing for public sidewalks. The Ontario cities of Hamilton, Kitchener, Waterloo and Windsor have all left residents responsible for sidewalk snow clearing. Here are six other cities that have also gone that way: - *Vancouver:* Residents and business owners are expected to clear sidewalks by 10 a.m. the day after every snowfall, seven days a week. The city encourages residents to adopt the sidewalks of neighbouring seniors or people with mobility issues and keep them clear all winter long. Failure to keep walks adjacent to residential homes can lead to fines of $250 per offence, while apartment blocks and business can incur fines ranging from $750 to $2,000. - *Calgary: *Since 1974, property owners in Calgary have been responsible for clearing the sidewalks adjacent to their properties within 24 hours of snow or ice accumulating. The city has also been promoting a Snow Angels campaign for more than 10 years, encouraging able-bodied residents to help seniors and others in need by adopting sidewalks to clear. Residents nominate their Snow Angels annually for special recognition letters from the mayor, and Snow Angels are given free parking passes from the Calgary Parking Authority. If property owners don't clear their sidewalks within 24 hours, the city gives them notices to shovel and scrape their walks within an allotted period of time. Fines vary based on the length of sidewalks and the amount of snow and ice accumulated. - *Edmonton: *A community standards bylaw requires property owners shovel their adjacent walkways -- sidewalks and driveways -- within 48 hours of a snowfall. Those who violate the bylaw are given one warning notice per season before being issued a ticket. Tickets are $100, and if a contractor has to be sent to remove snow, the property owner will be invoiced again separately. The city recommends residents sprinkle salt or gravel on the ground to give pedestrians traction and provides free boxes of sand at community drop points for citizens to use. - *Regina: *The City of Regina also provides sand to help residents keep their walks safe. Regina requires downtown businesses to clear their walks within 24 hours of a snowfall, while businesses, apartments and vacant lots outside downtown are given 48 hours to clear the snow. - *Saskatoon:* Residents are required to clear their private walks within 48 hours of a snowfall, while some commercial properties are only given 24 hours. When reports of uncleared sidewalks are filed to the City of Saskatoon, a bylaw inspector investigates and doles out 48-hour warnings to residents. Those who don't clear adequately can expect fines ranging from $100 to $2,000, depending on the severity and number of infractions. - *Toronto: *City crews clean the snow and ice from much of Toronto but aren't able to do so in core areas. Residents and business owners in the city's core are asked to clear adjacent walkways within 12 hours of every snowfall. Violating the bylaw can result in a $100 fine, with $25 surcharges. People needing snow-clearing help in Toronto's core can submit special requests to the city. *-- Jessica Botelho-Urbanski*

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WFP: Lukes eyes 30 km/h speed limit for residential streets & Crossing guard fed up with reckless drivers (Jun24'15)
by Beth McKechnie 24 Jun '15

24 Jun '15

Lukes eyes 30 km/h speed limit for residential streets http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/lukes-eyes-30-kmh-speed-limit-for--r… DO you like driving 30 km/h in school zones? How about on all residential streets? Coun. Janice Lukes, the public works chairwoman, wants Winnipeg to consider reducing all residential street speed limits to 30 km/h. The lower limit would not apply to regional streets, which are major routes such as Main Street or Portage Avenue. Lukes wants a pilot project in Fort Richmond, which is in her St. Norbert ward, but approval would have to come from the province first. "That solves all of our problems with cycling, walking, to have a limited speeding amount for vehicles," she said. One idea she has is to piggyback off the work of former Daniel McIntyre councillor Harvey Smith, who attempted to lower residential street speed limits to 40 km/h from 50 km/h in 2012. The motion was defeated by the public works committee in 2013 after an administrative report recommended against it. Earlier this week, a community committee in Toronto voted in favour of reducing the speed limits in some residential areas to 30 km/h. A report by Toronto's city staff said it could increase safety for residents and increase the number of residents using active transportation, but would be costly and might not work with every local road. Lukes said she would be open to investigating reducing the speed limit on weekends or at certain times of the day. "It is absolutely something in my tenure I will be looking at," she said. "I know (Fort Richmond) has five or six schools in an area, parks, so there is nothing wrong with piloting a project to see what happens." *-- Kristin Annable* Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 24, 2015 0 * * * * * Crossing guard fed up with reckless driversPosting licence plate numbers on Facebook http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/crossing-guard-fed-up-with-reckless-… A Winnipeg crossing guard hopes to shame bad drivers into better behaviour by posting their licence plate numbers on social media. Cecile Desjarlais has worked at a busy intersection in the West End since last fall, helping adults and children from a nearby school cross the street. Desjarlais says she's blown away by the number of close calls she's encountered with drivers, seeing kids almost hit by cars. On Monday, she said she had three narrow misses with vehicles. "I was in my intersection in the middle of the road with my vest on and my flag out, trying to get some kids across," Desjarlais said Tuesday. "Out come two vehicles, one after the other, and they passed on the inside of me, thankfully, so I was able to protect the kids." Thirty seconds later, another car nearly hit her and pedestrians again, she said. "There was even a closer call two weeks before where a child was just stepping off the curb... and somebody cut in the outside lane and hit the flag right out of my hand," Desjarlais said. "(Drivers) are being inattentive, they're late possibly for an appointment or work, or they just don't care." Fed up, Desjarlais decided to create a Facebook group where she plans to list the licence plate numbers of reckless drivers she sees. She will also be reporting the numbers to Winnipeg police, she said. Desjarlais talked to police about the issue and they said it's all right for her to post the plate numbers online. Police told her they will also be following up on all the numbers she reports. The Facebook group, Crossing Guards Wall of Shame, had 118 members subscribed after one day. Desjarlais said she will be the only person in the group posting licence plate numbers, so she can ensure they are authentic. One group member who hopes to help is Maurice Grégoire, the president of Teknisult Enterprises Ltd., which manufactures video cameras for school buses. Grégoire said he wants to help Desjarlais by giving her a wearable hat-camera that will shoot video and audio. That way, she won't have to take her eyes off the children to write down licence plate numbers in a notebook, he said. "It's all about advocacy for student safety," he said. "Whatever resources I have that she can use, go for it." Desjarlais hopes the Facebook group will raise awareness among drivers and, consequentially, make for safer commutes to school. "The drivers need to be aware that the crossing guards are out there. We're not out there just to cause havoc with traffic or anything. We're just trying to get people across the street safely," Desjarlais said. "How would they feel if they were running late or on the way to work and they were to hit me or a child? They're not going to get to their destination any quicker if that was to happen." jessica.botelho-urbanski(a)freepress.mb.ca *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 24, 2015 0*

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WFP: Council to vote on bike route barricades & Progress on cycling routes (Jun24'15)
by Beth McKechnie 24 Jun '15

24 Jun '15

Council to vote on bike route barricades http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/council-to-vote-on-bike-route-barric… A civic committee has given the green light to reinstate barricades along the city's Sunday/holiday bike routes. At Tuesday's public works committee meeting, councillors voted unanimously in favour of bringing back the barricades, which helped warn motorists the roadways were for local traffic only. The motion to reinstate the barricades must still be approved by council. The barricades were removed this year and replaced with signs at the intersections that read, "Motor vehicle travel limited to one block, 8:00-20:00, Sundays and holidays." However, the removal of the barricades was met with displeasure from councillors whose wards are within these routes. River Heights-Fort Garry Coun. John Orlikow and Daniel McIntyre Coun. Cindy Gilroy voiced their approval of the motion from the city centre community committee, which called for the barricades to return along the four designated streets. Lyndale Drive, Scotia Street, Wellington Crescent and Wolseley Avenue are considered cycling paths from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays and statutory holidays from mid-May to mid-October. Orlikow said since the barricades were removed, his Sundays have been filled with emails and phone calls from his constituents, who say motorists are not reading the signs. Gilroy, who is also on the public works committee, echoed these concerns stating at the meeting, "it is just not working," now that the barricades are gone. The barricades were removed this year after a recommendation from the public works department, which saw it as a way to save money. Public works director Brad Sacher told a civic committee last July that it cost the department $35,000 a year to have staff put up and take down the barricades on the four routes every Sunday during the cycling season. Progress on cycling routes A 20-year strategy for constructing a network of pedestrian and cycling paths across Winnipeg is heading back to city council for approval. The pedestrian and cycling strategy was endorsed Tuesday -- for the second time -- by the public works committee. Couns. Russ Wyatt (Transcona) and Jeff Browaty (North Kildonan) told the committee they were concerned that area residents weren't notified about the impacts the strategy will have when specific streets are identified as routes. They also said the maps in the report contained errors. But the report was unanimously adopted without changes after a senior administrator said the strategy is a long-term guide that will be subject to council and public approval before any component is implemented. Brad Sacher, director of public works, said annual action plans will contain detailed routes and costs and they will be subject to public consultation and council approval. Sacher said the strategy included maps to demonstrate where gaps exist in existing pedestrian and cycling routes and where new routes should go but they're not set in stone. Coun. Janice Lukes said councillors and residents will determine the details of routes on an annual basis. Questions about the public consultation process of the study were resolved when the new office of public engagement reviewed what the strategy authors had done and said the methods were adequate and complied with industry best practices. *-- Aldo Santin, Kristin Annable* Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 24, 2015 B3

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road cycling the new golf for business networking
by Terry Zdan 22 Jun '15

22 Jun '15

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/road-cycling-the-new-golf-for-busines… -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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VeloCity report back: Love to Ride software
by Anders Swanson 22 Jun '15

22 Jun '15

[I met with Thomas, the creator of this program in Nantes. He heard I was behind Winter Bike to Work Day and wanted to chat. I found this system to be very interesting, sophisticated and graphically beautiful. Its essentially a platform for companies and individuals to get started, challenge each other and share their experiences cycling. It doesn't appear to really be aimed at a "normalized cycling culture" but it may have its uses, particularly in places like Canda or the UK or Australia with dismal numbers that already do stuff like Bike to Work Week or Commuter Challenge to get people talking. It certainly seems to be catching on all over the place. It takes the basic concept of the above, injects some digital steroids, and tosses in strong social media muscle to make it spread widely. It costs $ to implement, but the costs seem fair for what you get. The sponsorship component is handled deftly. It may be worth considering brining this to Winnipeg, or replacing certain IT aspects of what we already do with their system. . . esp. considering the number of cities/countries that are signing on. At the very least, I am going to look into how perhaps we might be able to do this nationally for Bike Day in Canada Next Year. If any of this interests you, talk to me. - Anders] >From Thomas: Hey Anders, It was great to meet you at Velo-City. Here is some more information for you and your colleagues to look at re Love to Ride. Our Partner facing site - www.lovetoride.org A short 2 min Animation on Love to Ride - https://challengeforchange.wistia.com/medias/7jckx9l8kz <https://challengeforchange.wistia.com/medias/7jckx9l8kz> A short 5 min TEDx Talk I gave - http://getmorepeoplecycling.com/2014/07/09/thomas-speaks-at-tedx-atlanta/ <http://getmorepeoplecycling.com/2014/07/09/thomas-speaks-at-tedx-atlanta/> A couple of example sites: UK – www.lovetoride.net/uk Sydney, Australia - www.lovetoride.net/sydney <http://www.lovetoride.net/sydney> Please feel free to pass this email on to any partners you work with who might also be interested in learning about Love to Ride. A skype call in the next few weeks could be a good option. Cheers, Thomas -- Thomas Stokell Executive Director Love to Ride US: +1 (310) 9067897 Skype: thomasstokell thomas(a)lovetoride.org www.linkedin.com/in/thomasstokell www.lovetoride.org

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CBC: Your smartphone might help you build a better city
by Beth McKechnie 22 Jun '15

22 Jun '15

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> Cc: "at-network(a)lists.umanitoba.ca" <at-network(a)lists.umanitoba.ca> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2015 09:13:43 -0500 http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/your-smartphone-might-help-you-build-a-be… -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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Report from Office of Public Engagement
by Anders Swanson 19 Jun '15

19 Jun '15

Onward. "...consultation completed was adequate & utilized industry best practices.." http://t.co/9xV0dzZj9g http://t.co/bLiTo0ujzg https://twitter.com/swansonanders/status/611994774120235008

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Trail Audit posiiton with Trails Manitoba
by Beth McKechnie 19 Jun '15

19 Jun '15

*Trail Auditor* Does getting paid to cycle 1500 km this summer across our fair province sound like an amazing experience to you? Trails Manitoba is looking for a Trail Auditor to assess the condition of the Trans Canada Trail in Manitoba from its western point from the Saskatchewan border to High Lake, near Falcon Lake to the east. Applicants must be physically fit, own a well-maintained mountain bike, have vehicle support, attention to detail and strong written and verbal skills (as an audit report must be submitted). Experience with gps is an asset, but training will be provided. This is an honorarium position of $3000, plus all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses and per diem to cover hotel/accom. GPS and trail orientation knowledge is an asset, but training will be provided. Please view a detailed job description at trailsmanitoba.ca. Interested applicants forward their resumes in confidence (with 2 references) to executive_director(a)trailsmanitoba.ca *by June 30, 2015*. http://trailsmanitoba.ca/2015/06/trail-auditor-position/

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5 key lessons from Europe's Vision Zero success
by Beth McKechnie 17 Jun '15

17 Jun '15

*5 key lessons from Europe's Vision Zero success* Early learnings from Stockholm, Rotterdam and Berlin's versions of Vision Zero: 1) Managing speeds — and speed differentials — is a top priority 2) After speed, street design is key 3) Engineering efforts have taken priority over education and enforcement 4) Private sector buy-in strengthens efforts 5) What’s next? Vision Zero 2.0 Read full story: http://usa.streetsblog.org/2015/06/10/five-key-lessons-from-europes-vision-… cheers, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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AT Webinar Reminder: First Mile / Last Mile Connections to Transit, Wed, June 17, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 16 Jun '15

16 Jun '15

*** Friendly reminder regarding tomorrow afternoon's webinar *** Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP webinar: *First Mile / Last Mile Connections to Transit.* The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** First Mile / Last Mile Connections to Transit *Wednesday, June 17th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* This webinar features the work of two leading transit agencies in the vanguard of policy development and implementation for connecting transit to pedestrian and bicycle networks. Presenters from Translink (Vancouver, B.C.) and TriMet (Portland, Ore.) discuss their agency's approach to prioritizing connections for people walking and bicycling. Learn about the research and cost/benefit analysis Translink has done to make the case for increased investment in walking and cycling facilities, and how TriMet approaches pedestrian and bicycle network access and prioritizes improvements. *Presenters:* - Alan Letho, Director of Planning and Policy, TriMet - Lyle Walker, Senior Planner, TransLink -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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The WRENCH is seeking a new Executive Director
by Dave Elmore 14 Jun '15

14 Jun '15

Please circulate: http://thewrench.ca/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/WRENCH-ED-posting-2 015.pdf Employment Opportunity: Executive Director The WRENCH is a non-profit organization that strives to make bikes and knowledge of bicycle repair and maintenance assessable to the public by: .Providing programming, education and resources for community members, groups and organizations .Supporting and promoting bicycle use within the city .Supporting new and existing community bike shops Through collaboration with community groups, schools, municipal representatives and individuals, The WRENCH: .Provides access to cycling programming for youth groups, community organizations, agencies and schools .Supports and increases the number and skill level of school and community mechanics and volunteers .Empowers youth and other community members through mentorship, t raining, building confidence and self-esteem .Reduces waste by refurbishing and recycling bicycles and bicycle parts The WRENCH is seeking an Executive Director to provide organizational leadership and financial planning and management of The WRENCH. Job Description Leadership .Participate with the Board in developing astrategic plan to guide the organization. .Identify, assess and inform the Board of internal and external issues that affect the organization. .Foster effective team work between the Board and the Executive Director, and between the Executive Director and other employees. .Act as a spokesperson for the organization, subject to the Board's direction. .Represent the organization at community activities to enhance the organization's community profile. Financial planning and management .Work with staff and Board to prepare a comprehensive budget. .Coordinate all aspects of fundraising, including developing foundation proposals, securing donations and sponsorship, fundraising events, and donor recognition. .Ensure that sound bookkeeping and accounting procedures are followed. .Administer the funds of the organization according to the approved budget and monitor the monthly cash flow of the organization. .Provide the Board with comprehensive, regular reports on the revenues and expenditures of the organization, including a monthly financial analysis. Operational and program planning and management .Develop operational plans that work towards the strategic direction of the organization. .Oversee the planning, implementation and evaluation of the organization's programs and services. .Ensure that the organization's operation meets the expectations of the Board, funders and clients. .Oversee the efficient and effective operation of the organization. .Draft policies and procedures for the Board, review existing policies and procedures and recommend appropriate changes. .Support the Board by preparing meeting agendas and supporting materials. .Deliver a monthly report to the Board, giving the status of each area of responsibility. Human resources planning and management .Determine staffing requirements for management of the organization and delivery of programs. .Establish a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all appropriate legislation and regulations. .Implement a performance management process for all staff, which includes an annual performance review. Community relations and advocacy .Communicate with stakeholders to keep them informed of the organization's work and to identify changes in the community served by the organization. .Establish good working relationships and collaborative arrangements with community groups, schools, youth groups, cycling groups, funders, and media and other organizations to help achieve the organization's goals. Qualifications .Ability to self direct, prioritize and meet deadlines .Excellent interpersonal communication and conflict management skills .Experience working with non-profit/community organizations and boards .Project management from conceptual design to final assessment .Proven experience in non -profit fundraising and grant writing .Familiarity with community bike shops and other local cycling organizations .Awareness and sensitivity to issues of marginalization (sexism, racism, classism) and cultural diversity .Understanding of community economic development principles .Experience working with Aboriginal and newcomer communities .Experience working with youth and knowledge of community based youth serving organizations .Experience building consensus within and between organizations The successful candidate will be required to complete a child abuse registry check and a criminal record check. Application deadline: Monday, June 22, 2015 Start Date: ASAP Please submit resume and cover letter to The WRENCH Hiring Committee by email to: info(a)thewrench.ca

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AT Webinar: First Mile / Last Mile Connections to Transit, Wed, June 17, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 11 Jun '15

11 Jun '15

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP webinar: *First Mile / Last Mile Connections to Transit.* The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** First Mile / Last Mile Connections to Transit *Wednesday, June 17th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* This webinar features the work of two leading transit agencies in the vanguard of policy development and implementation for connecting transit to pedestrian and bicycle networks. Presenters from Translink (Vancouver, B.C.) and TriMet (Portland, Ore.) discuss their agency's approach to prioritizing connections for people walking and bicycling. Learn about the research and cost/benefit analysis Translink has done to make the case for increased investment in walking and cycling facilities, and how TriMet approaches pedestrian and bicycle network access and prioritizes improvements. *Presenters:* - Alan Letho, Director of Planning and Policy, TriMet - Lyle Walker, Senior Planner, TransLink

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First ever bike Week in Portage la Prairie
by Beth McKechnie 10 Jun '15

10 Jun '15

Portage gets ready to get active By Johnna Ruocco <http://www.portagedailygraphic.com/author/johnna-ruocco>, The Graphic Tuesday, June 9, 2015 10:07:34 CDT AM http://www.portagedailygraphic.com/2015/06/09/portage-gets-ready-to-get-act… Several local organizations are teaming up to hold the first ever Bike Week Portage from June 13-19. The Active Transportation Group, Portage Community Revitalization Corporation, Portage la Prairie Regional Library, Portage la Prairie Public Art, Junk Yard Dogs and the City of Portage la Prairie are partners in the inaugural bike week. The official kickoff will be held on June 13 at the library. There will be many activities on the agenda including a bike rodeo at 10 a.m., which is hosted by the library and the RCMP. The event will continue at the PCRC parking lot with face-painting, a bicycle decoration contest and a vintage bicycle display from local cyclists at 11 a.m. Then, at 12 p.m., Mayor Irvine Ferris will officially proclaim the week to be Bike Week Portage. There will also be a free barbecue and the group is hoping Portagers will help them set a city record for the most number of bikes in one place. The next event will be on June 15. Yvette Cuthbert will be guiding a free public art bicycle tour, starting at the main entrance of the PCU Centre at 7 p.m. A historical building tour will be held the following day, June 16. This tour is also free and will be hosted by Derrick McCutcheon. The tour meets at Off the Top at 230 Saskatchewan Ave. E. at 7 p.m. On June 18 there will be a ride through some of the paths throughout the city. The ride will take place beginning at 7 p.m. and meeting between the PCU Centre and Splash Island. It is open to all skill and experience levels and will be no longer than one hour. Also on June 18 will be Bike Week Portage Presents: the Travelling Meal. Rain or shine, this tour aims to celebrate physical activity, clean environment and healthy living by riding bikes through Portage and stopping along the way to enjoy a light meal. The start time is 6 p.m. meeting at the Portage Mall. The first stop will be Tornado’s for salad or an appetizer, then Cafe on Prince for an entree, then to Horfrost for dessert. Tickets are limited and are $30 per person and can be purchased at the PCRC office or by calling Dan at 204-239-2979. The deadline for tickets is June 16. For more information, contact Dianna at 204-871-6735 or dneufeld(a)southernhealth.ca. Bike Week Portage wraps up on June 19 with the active transportation group promoting everyone in the community to bike to school or work. There will be rest stops set up for people to take a break or get some water. The rest stop locations will be at Crescent Road and Wilkinson Crescent, Crescent Road and Royal Road, the RBC on Saskatchewan Avenue, 3rd Street NE and 4th Avenue NE, and at 8th Street NW and Fisher Avenue W. johnna.ruocco(a)sunmedia.ca

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ParticipACTION's 2015 Report Card - AT grade for Canadian Children and Youth
by Shoni Madden 09 Jun '15

09 Jun '15

Thought some of you would be interested to see the report card on Canadian Phyiscal Activity for Children and Youth. In Active Transportation, Canada got a D - based on lack of children that walk or cycle to school (0%-20%) A key stat I took from this was that " *Canadian children are eight times more likely to die as a passenger in a motor vehicle than from being hit by a vehicle when outside on foot or on a bike.*" 52-54 *Active Transportation Recommendations included:* » School travel planning interventions should be implemented at a larger scale. » School board transport policies need to recognize and consider ways to support active forms of travel such as walking and cycling, rather than serving as purely a “bussing” policy. » Policy-makers should pay careful attention to areas with known safety risks in which a greater percentage of children engage in active transportation. Such policies may include lower speed limits, greater provision of sidewalks and bike lanes, traffic calming and crossing guards near schools. » Novel initiatives to encourage active transportation among children living in suburban and rural areas are needed. While school may be located too far away to enable active transportation for the entire trip, walking may still be promoted for part of the journey. The ParticipACTION Report Card (formerly the Active Healthy Kids Canada Report Card) provides a comprehensive assessment of the current state of physical activity for children and youth in Canada. For the first time, the Report Card takes a stand on play in nature and the outdoors—with its risks—and includes a *Position Statement on Active Outdoor Play*. The main message of the report card is that kids move more and sit less when they play outdoors, and have some freedom to roam and take risks. The following materials are available on ParticipACTION’s website <http://zc1.maillist-manage.com/click.zc?od=11287eca4835f4&repDgs=1454299662…> : Ø A Highlight Report <http://zc1.maillist-manage.com/click.zc?od=11287eca4835f4&repDgs=1454299662…> which summarizes the 2015 cover story, indicators and grades. Ø A Full Report <http://zc1.maillist-manage.com/click.zc?od=11287eca4835f4&repDgs=1454299662…> which includes background on our methodology and process, in-depth analyses, summaries of key research, charts and figures and complete references. Ø Communications tools <http://zc1.maillist-manage.com/click.zc?od=11287eca4835f4&repDgs=1454299662…> to support the dissemination of the Report Card findings in presentations, social media, on websites and in newsletters. Thanks, -- *Shoni Madden* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3779 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/> * Please note that my regular office hours are Tuesdays/Thursdays. I will respond to your communication at this time.

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FW: Bike Week
by Dave Elmore 09 Jun '15

09 Jun '15

We are riding to City Hall today (June 9th) from The Forks to announce all of the exciting Bike Week news. Please join us in your best work attire! Meet Under the Canopy at The Forks at 12:15 PM, Announcement at 1:00 PM Bike Week Winnipeg is a celebration of people riding bicycles. Whether you're racing, commuting, keeping fit, or just out for a Sunday ride, Bike Week Winnipeg is for you because it's for everyone. This year, Bike Week Winnipeg will take place from June 13-19, 2015 and will feature a wide variety of bicycle-related events for all types of riders. Our weeklong celebration will kick-off with a pancake breakfast at the University of Winnipeg on Monday, June 15 and - as always - will wrap up with our Half Pints Bikes and BBQ Party at The Forks on Friday, June 19. For more information and a full listing of Bike Week Winnipeg events, visit <http://www.bikeweekwinnipeg.com/> bikeweekwinnipeg.com We look forward to riding with you, Andraea Sartison Bike Week Event Coordinator PLEASE FORWARD THIS EMAIL AS PROMOTION WITHIN YOUR COMMUNITY

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Fwd: 2015 City of Winnipeg Access Awards
by Anders Swanson 08 Jun '15

08 Jun '15

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: *Sobkowicz, Chris* <csobkowicz(a)winnipeg.ca> Date: Monday, June 8, 2015 Subject: RE: 2015 City of Winnipeg Access Awards To: "Sobkowicz, Chris" <csobkowicz(a)winnipeg.ca> Hello Everyone: Just a quick reminder that there is only one week to our deadline of June 15th for submissions for the 2015 City of Winnipeg Access Awards. Please feel free to pass this information along to all your associates. I have attached a copy of the 2015 Access Awards Fillable form, along with the categories and criteria for each award. I have also attached a copy of the 2014 Award Winners selected at our event at the MET Entertainment Centre last year. This was a memorable gala event, which has now set the bar of proper recognition to those who use Universal Design as a major focus in the scope of their projects. You are also invited to visit our archive of award winners over the years by visiting our website at www.aacwinnipeg.mb.ca Please help us recognize those architects, engineers, designers, landscape architects, and owners who have successfully achieved the concepts of access for everyone. Take a moment to fill out a nomination form *or *send this information along to your associates and friends to do likewise. Nomination Deadline is Monday June 15, 2015 *Chris Sobkowicz* Coordinator City of Winnipeg Access Advisory Committee 204 986-8345 www.aacwinnipeg.mb.ca

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WFP: Police considering using barricades to keep drivers off Sunday cycling routes (Jun5'15)
by Beth McKechnie 08 Jun '15

08 Jun '15

Police considering using barricades to keep drivers off Sunday cycling routes http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/Police-considering-using-barricades-… With new rules for summer bike routes confusing some drivers, bringing back barricades makes good sense for city police, Winnipeg Police Service Chief Devon Clunis said Friday. A bylaw implemented last summer allows police to ticket drivers who travel more than one block on the Sunday and holiday bike routes, which are no longer barricaded. Instead, posted signs restrict vehicle traffic to one block. Drivers who break the bylaw face a fine of $90.22. Police have been out warning drivers on the four designated streets - Lyndale Drive, Scotia Street, Wellington Crescent and Wolseley Avenue - which are considered cycling paths from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays and statutory holidays from mid-May until mid-October. But drivers still aren’t getting the message, Clunis said Friday. "From a police perspective right now, certainly it’s not our intent that we just want to be out there ticketing after ticketing after ticketing. I wish people would get the message." Reinstalling bike-route barricades would simplify officers’ duties, he said, and he’d like to find out why they were removed in favour of new signs. "As a citizen, I can understand why seeing a physical barrier would certainly be far more obvious than a sign," he said. "Would the barricades actually make our job as a police service easier? Absolutely." Removing the barricades was recommended by the public works department, which saw the new Sunday cycling rules as a way to save money. Public works director Brad Sacher told a civic committee last July that it cost the department $35,000 a year to have staff put up and take down the barricades on the four routes every Sunday during the cycling season. With the new signs, Sacher said it was no longer necessary to place the barricades. Sacher recommended that an extensive public education campaign be conducted to make motorists aware of the new bylaw.

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WFP CanStar Weeklies: Buffered bike lanes extended on Pembina (Jun2'15)
by Beth McKechnie 08 Jun '15

08 Jun '15

Buffered bike lanes extended on Pembina By: Richard Kamchen - Community Correspondent http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/souwester/correspondent/Bu… Road resurfacing and rehabilitation is continuing its southward expansion down Pembina Highway and will feature bicycle routes. "The University of Manitoba is the second most-commuted-to destination in the City of Winnipeg by people on bikes, in buses and in cars," says acting deputy mayor Janice Lukes, city councillor for St. Norbert ward. The motivation behind the ongoing roadwork is tied to the city’s efforts to expand rapid transit to the Fort Garry campus. "The U of M is growing and expanding, they’re redeveloping the Southwood Golf Course there, and the south end is growing tremendously. So we’re looking at all forms of transportation," Lukes says. The approximately four-month project, which is part of Winnipeg’s Public Works Department’s regional street renewal program, is budgeted at $4.45 million. It began May 12 and, weather permitting, is anticipated to be completed Aug. 28. Construction is occurring on southbound Pembina from Bairdmore Boulevard North Leg to Kirkbridge Drive; and northbound from Killarney Avenue to Dalhousie Drive. The renewal project will include new bike lanes, pavement widening, curb and sidewalk renewal, bus stop upgrades, and boulevard upgrading where required. Asphalt resurfacing will follow to improve drainage and rideability. Street medians are being narrowed to widen the roads in order to accommodate a 1.5 metre buffered bike lane. No additional vehicle travel lanes will be constructed. The bike lanes will mirror the design of the buffered bike lanes on Pembina from University Crescent to Markham Road. During non-winter months, cyclists will be separated from traffic by plastic bollards, which are essentially tall white dividers that alert drivers to the bike lanes next to them. The bus stops will feature bike boarding platforms and are also to be constructed using a design similar to the bus stops on Pembina from University Crescent to Markham. The boulevards on Pembina from Kirkbridge to Bairdmore will be re-seeded. Pembina Highway will remain open to traffic and access to all businesses and residential premises will be maintained. Lukes says she wishes to see the project expand farther south in the future. "I’m hoping the following year it goes right to the Perimeter." *Richard Kamchen is a community correspondent for Fort Richmond.*

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WFP: Risky ride along Osborne - Cyclists vie for space with drivers in one of city's busiest corridors (Jun8'15)
by Beth McKechnie 08 Jun '15

08 Jun '15

Risky ride along OsborneCyclists vie for space with drivers in one of city's busiest corridors By: Kristin Annable http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/risky-ride-along-osborne-306448641.h… Osborne Village represents the trifecta of danger for cyclists: a high volume of traffic, a narrow road and an underpass. Last month, the Free Press asked cyclists to submit the trouble spots they encounter as they navigate the streets. After hundreds of submissions, Osborne Street from the bridge to the CN underpass proved to be one of the top areas. Many cyclists said there is just no room for them. [image: A paramedic picks up a helmet after a cyclist was hit near Osborne Street and Jessie Avenue in 2012.] <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/120323_PEDESTRIAN_01_155119.jpg> TREVOR HAGAN / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS FILES A paramedic picks up a helmet after a cyclist was hit near Osborne Street and Jessie Avenue in 2012. Photo Store <http://store.winnipegfreepress.com/photostore/photo-search/?keyword=A+param…> [image: trevor hagan / winnipeg free press There�s a welcome bike lane on the Osborne Street Bridge heading south from downtown, but it ends abruptly at the foot of the bridge.] <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/6835742.jpg> trevor hagan / winnipeg free press There�s a welcome bike lane on the Osborne Street Bridge heading south from downtown, but it ends abruptly at the foot of the bridge. There is some notice paid to cyclists on the stretch. The Osborne Street Bridge has a designated bicycle lane, and just north of the bridge is a crossing for cyclists to get to the Assiniboine River. Meanwhile, the Osborne rapid-transit station offers bicycle lockers for cyclists to lock up their bike and commute to work. However, Free Press readers said the path from the bridge to the station is perilous. The journey begins at the bridge, the only spot in this stretch with a painted bike lane, which as one cyclist pointed out, "the lane suddenly ends at the lights on Osborne and Roslyn (Road)." "I have been almost side-swiped several times as the (drivers) have not been used to noticing me and suddenly we are to share a lane." The alternative is to swerve onto the sidewalk, which is illegal and can result in a $113 fine for an adult cyclist. As the cyclist continues south, they reach an increasingly narrow street, and as one reader pointed out, "parking on Osborne Street means cyclists are expected to constantly merge in and out of the curb lane, with cars frequently travelling above the 50 km/h limit." As they reach Confusion Corner and the Osborne underpass, they head towards an area that sees thousands of cars pass through daily. Despite extensive lobbying by groups such as the Winnipeg Trails Association and Bike to the Future in 2009, there is no dedicated lane at the underpass. "(That) forces cyclists to use Osborne, south of Confusion Corner, which is way too busy for safe cycling," said another cyclist. One reader described a typical morning commute, which is more difficult when Osborne gets backed up to the north. "I've seen plenty of cyclists attempt to squeeze through in very dangerous ways. The alternative is to take the pedestrian path under the bridge, but that is also very narrow, and a bike can only just squeeze by a pedestrian." Kevin Nixon, who is the city's co-ordinator of active transportation, said it would be expensive to incorporate infrastructure for cyclists on a narrow, busy road such as Osborne Street. It would require the widening of the street towards the underpass. A fact planners learned the hard way when they had to backtrack on a promise to build a bike lane on the Osborne Street CN Rail underpass, after realizing it would have meant rebuilding the entire bridge to accommodate it. The city has identified Osborne Village as one of the top spots for cycling accidents. Its 20-year cycling strategy labels Osborne Street a "multi-modal corridor" where cyclists must share space with a high number of vehicles, transit and pedestrians. The strategy calls Osborne Street an "existing bicycle facility." Approval of the cycling strategy is on hold as the city consults with Winnipeggers about it. Readers can head to winnipegfreepress.com to watch Mark Cohoe, the executive director of Bike Winnipeg, show first-hand the difficulty of cycling Osborne Street. Next Monday, the Free Press will examine the barriers to cycling the main route to St. Vital. kristin.annable(a)freepress.mb.ca

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Bike Week media launch and suit ride
by Dave Elmore 07 Jun '15

07 Jun '15

This Tuesday Bike Week 2015 will have our media launch. We are also having a "Suit Ride" to the launch. The suit ride starts at 12:30 pm from the canopy at the Forks. The launch starts at 1:00 pm and we need as many people on their bikes as possible. It's a great opportunity to show our new mayor (who will be speaking at the launch) how important bikes are. Get dressed in your best and join us for a ride or just drop by for the launch. Bike Week starts on Saturday the 13th and we will also be having our 2nd annual free pancake breakfast on Monday the 15th kick things off. Check out all the great activities planned for Bike Week at http://www.bikeweekwinnipeg.com/about/events-schedule/.

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Maker Community Embraces Urban Biking
by David Pensato 04 Jun '15

04 Jun '15

Make Magazine is the top resource for the maker and DIY community (think people who are into 3D printers, CNC machines, soldering and/or robotics. This article is where the Maker/Urban Cyclist venn diagram intersect: >From Kickstarter to Collaboration, Taking Urban Biking to the Next Level http://makezine.com/2015/06/04/kickstarter-collaboration-taking-urban-bikin…

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Velo-city
by Anders Swanson 04 Jun '15

04 Jun '15

Please find below a link to a daily roundup of presentations here at Velocity 2016 in Nantes. Proud to present a couple made-in-winnipeg transportation planning solutions from Green Action Centre, as well as represent the Winter Cycling Federation as we prepare for Minneapolis 2016. You can follow me on twitter for some salient points (@SwansonAnders or @counterpointapp). Also note, the exhibitors booths here are expansive and has just about everything in terms of the latest bike parking, bike share, gis analysis tools, encouragement programs, etc. If there is anything you are burning to learn about or a catalogue you'd like to have brought back to Winnipeg, let me know and I'll do my best to look into it for you. Kindly, Anders ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: *ECF Newsletter* <noreply(a)ecf.com> Date: Thursday, June 4, 2015 Subject: Velo-city Roundup Day 2: Opening Plenary, COP21, Bike Parade and more! To: andersswanson(a)gmail.com This is the ECF Newsletter dedicated to the Velo-city Conference 2015 in Nantes. These are the highlights from the second day. Is this email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser <http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=73377cf329…> . *It is Velo-city 2015 and here comes our second news round-up from the conference in Nantes, France!* To keep you up-to-date on all the most relevant news from the world’s largest cycling convention, we will be sending you one edition with daily highlights each day for the rest of the week. This is a news digest – click the ‘more’ links if you’re looking to follow the event more closely. You can also find more information on our special Live website <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=5…> and, naturally, on social media. Here is a selection of what’s been happening on the second day at #velocity15: - We are all future makers <#14dbd2e6d3e516d4_mctoc1> - Opening Plenary - Cycling towards COP21 <#14dbd2e6d3e516d4_mctoc2> - Infrastructure: Innovation, Parking Solutions and Attractive Design <#14dbd2e6d3e516d4_mctoc3> - Bike Parade <#14dbd2e6d3e516d4_mctoc4> - Velo-city Nantes Industry Day <#14dbd2e6d3e516d4_mctoc5> - Change the Rules! Promoting Cycling with More or Less Regulation <#14dbd2e6d3e516d4_mctoc6> We are all future makers Velo-city 2015, the world’s biggest cycling conference, kicks off in Nantes, France with a wide-ranging programme that covers all cycling related topics from cycling infrastructure to cycling culture. This event gathers over 1500 delegates from more than 60 countries to discuss the future of cycling setting a new record in terms of participation. Read more <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=6…> *Opening Plenary - Cycling towards COP21* Velo-city 2015 Nantes is a major event leading up to the COP 21, to be held in Paris in December. Nantes, European Green Capital 2013, has gained recognition for its ongoing commitment to sustainable development and in particular its pro-cycling policy. The Opening Plenary of the 23rd Velo-city conference welcomed over 1500 delegates from all over the world. Read more <http://ecf.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=…> *Infrastructure: Innovation, Parking Solutions and Attractive Design * What type of design could make cycling infrastructure attractive for cyclists? What bike parking facilities have been proved effective? What kind of innovative infrastructure elements are leading to the future? Several sessions on Velo-city Day 2 tried to provide answers for these questions. Read more <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=6…> *Bike Parade* What’s so special about Velo-city? The answer is… the traditional “bike parade” which brought together 7.000 people for a festive bike ride though the city of Nantes. Read more <http://ecf.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=…> Velo-city Nantes Industry Day The second day of the Velo-city was full of industry-related sessions and networking events which can all be found in the Velo-city Industry Day Programme <http://ecf.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=…> put together by ECF. The link between cycling industry and advocacy is stronger than ever and success in one field benefits the other creating positive synergy in advancing cycling. Read more <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=a…> Change the Rules! Promoting Cycling with More or Less Regulation Through orientation and guidance on behaviour and practice, regulation can undoubtedly play a decisive role in travel mode shift. What does pro-cycling regulation entail? More regulation, or less? The discussion highlighted various examples and addressed the changes that are necessary to make more attractive than cars. Read more <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=0…> More... Visit out live page <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=9…> Check out photos on flickr <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=e…> Connect via facebook <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=9…> or twitter <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=2…> follow on Twitter <https://www.twitter.com/EuCyclistsFed/> | friend on Facebook <http://www.facebook.com/626614349> | forward to a friend <http://us2.forward-to-friend2.com/forward?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=73…> *Copyright © 2015 European Cyclists' Federation, All rights reserved.* You receive this email because you are part of our mailing list "ECF Website Sign up" *Our mailing address is:* European Cyclists' Federation Rue Franklin 28 Brussels 1000 Belgium Add us to your address book <http://ecf.us2.list-manage.com/vcard?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=c6a2e6c…> unsubscribe from this list <http://ecf.us2.list-manage2.com/unsubscribe?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=…> | update subscription preferences <http://ecf.us2.list-manage1.com/profile?u=b0c3ff3f53e4c6a8be5677245&id=c6a2…>

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Quebec cycle tourists spend more, stay longer, visit more often
by Beth McKechnie 03 Jun '15

03 Jun '15

*STUDY: QUEBEC CYCLE TOURISTS SPEND MORE, STAY LONGER, VISIT MORE OFTEN * Cycle tourists spend more, take frequent trips and travel for longer periods of time than the typical leisure tourist. And because they schedule their trips as early as June and as late as September, cycle tourists are helping to extend Quebec’s tourist season. These are some of the highlights of a study released by UQAM’s Transat Chair in Tourism. (Study Highlights: http://bit.ly/1Jkrl8s <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Ge_2-y9_Cuk0bgJ2Einl1w1ntGWEDlko0SxuwqciTG8k…> )

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Copenhagenize: The 20 Most Bike-Friendly Cities on the Planet
by Beth McKechnie 03 Jun '15

03 Jun '15

For your reading pleasure from Copenhagenize: The 20 Most Bike-Friendly Cities on the Planet http://www.wired.com/2015/06/copenhagenize-worlds-most-bike-friendly-cities/ Spoiler alert: Winnipeg's not on it but Montreal and Minneapolis are. cheers, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Parklets: Measuring impact on sidewalk vitality and neighbourhood businesses
by Beth McKechnie 02 Jun '15

02 Jun '15

Interesting study on parklets from University City District of Philadelphia: *"The Case for Parklets: Measuring the Impact on Sidewalk Vitality and Neighbourhood Businesses"* http://www.universitycity.org/sites/default/files/documents/The%20Case%20fo… Couple of key points that jumped out at me: *Parklets are not just for patrons.* A common concern is that Parklets may be interpreted by potential users as private space intended only for patrons of the adjacent businesses. In fact though, Parklets attracted a large number of non-patron users, with the busiest Parklets attracting the most non-patrons. *Parklet installation coincided with a substantial boost in sales*. The majority of host businesses were able to provide sales data for the one to two weeks preceding and following the installation of their adjacent Parklets2. Among them, the sales impact of the Parklets was substantial: following the introduction of the Parklets, sales were up by an average of 20% (the number of transactions increased by an average of 17% at the two businesses reporting that additional statistic). Several of the reporting businesses had been in operation for less than one year, so it was not possible to compare the year over year change in sales. Based on the typical increase in sales, a new Parklet is likely to pay for itself after just one to two seasons, particularly when multiple businesses benefit from its presence and can share in the cost -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Webinar Reminder: Talking Biking - Language that Defuses Bike Backlashes, Wed, June 3, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 02 Jun '15

02 Jun '15

*Just a friendly reminder about tomorrow afternoon's webinar...* Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP webinar: *Talking Biking - Language that Defuses Bike Backlashes (Protected Lanes #3).* The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. If you can't join us, please note that this is a free webinar, so you can register to view it on your own <https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1992998232325245954> or watch the recording at a later date. It will be posted a few days later on apbp.org <http://www.apbp.org/?page=Free_Webinars>. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Talking Biking: Language that Defuses Bike Backlashes (Protected Lanes #3) *Wednesday, June 3rd, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Words shape thoughts. Two skilled communicators from cities that have successfully overcome intense backlashes against bicycle infrastructure will share their tactics and experiences and take your questions. Featuring: - Cathy Tuttle, Executive Director of Seattle Neighborhood Greenways, and - Doug Gordon of BrooklynSpoke.com, in conversation with - PeopleForBikes staff writer Michael Andersen. -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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WFP: We're No. 4 (in large Canadian cities) and that's OK (Jun2'15)
by Beth McKechnie 02 Jun '15

02 Jun '15

[Note reference to transit and cycling below, highlighted in yellow.] We're No. 4 (in large Canadian cities) and that's OK By: Kevin Rollason <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/biographies/305362361.html> http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/were-no-4-in-large-canadian-cities-a… WINNIPEG may have slipped a few spots overall on MoneySense magazine's annual list of the best places to live in Canada, but in terms of big cities, it has gone up a notch in the rankings. And for organizations that promote Winnipeg, that is the key finding. MoneySense, a personal finance magazine, lists Winnipeg as the 24th-best place to live in Canada in 2015 -- a drop from 19th last year, and continuing the city's fall from 16th in 2013, and 10th in 2012. But in terms of the survey's 15 large Canadian cities, Winnipeg jumped up to fourth place from fifth, surpassing Edmonton, which plunged to 33rd from eighth overall in 2014. The centres ahead of Winnipeg are Ottawa, Quebec City and Calgary. Marina James, the CEO of Economic Development Winnipeg Inc., said she believes the large city ranking is the more relevant ranking for Winnipeg. "I'm so pleased we moved from fifth to fourth in big cities," James said Monday. "As an economic development agency we will promote that... I do believe any time we are in the top list it is very valuable for Winnipeg." The annual list puts small-sized Boucherville, Que., as number 1 of 209 Canadian cities to live in, edging out Ottawa. Brandon, in 26th place, is the next Manitoba entry after Winnipeg on the list, climbing up from 42nd. Other listed Manitoba communities are Steinbach at 149 (down from 85), Selkirk at 155 (the first time it has appeared on MoneySense's list), Portage la Prairie at 170 (down from 144) and Thompson at 177 (down from 121). Mark Brown, the author of the article, said Winnipeg mainly dropped down in the rankings because other cities popped up. "If another city has improvements, Winnipeg might be just as good as last year, but you can lose ground," he said. Brown said Winnipeg has several things going for it, including a population growth slightly higher than the national average, good access to health care and public transit, and ease in getting around on bicycle or foot. "You are 30th best for public transit -- that's positive," he said. "And two per cent of your population takes a bicycle to work -- that's really good and puts you 27th in the country." Brown said several Alberta cities have dropped because the massive influx in their populations in recent years have left them struggling to provide public services such as accessible health care. Loren Remillard of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce said in itself a drop to 24th place from 19th is not bad news. "Overall, this is more a case of small and medium-sized cities rocketing up the survey," Remillard said. "These aren't the communities Winnipeg is competing against for community investment... we didn't drop so much as smaller cities (went) up. "Being fourth bodes well for Winnipeg." kevin.rollason(a)freepress.mb.ca *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 2, 2015 A2*

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Fwd: Pedi-Cab Drivers for The Forks
by Anders Swanson 01 Jun '15

01 Jun '15

I have done this before. It's a lot of fun. But my pedicab days are over. Passing along for anyone interested. I hear the $ can be pretty good. See below ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Darren Downey <Darren.Downey(a)tf-np.ca> Date: Mon, Jun 1, 2015 at 6:04 PM Subject: Pedi-Cab Drivers for The Forks To: "andersswanson(a)gmail.com" <andersswanson(a)gmail.com> Hi Anders, Please see the attached job opportunity at The Forks. You may know some bike enthusiastic people interested in this position. Please share with whomever. Thanks *Darren Downey, CAPP* *Manager, Business Operations and Parking* *The Forks North Portage* *259 - 393 Portage Avenue* *Winnipeg, MB R3B 3H6* *t: 204-987-4381 <204-987-4381>* *f: 204-942-5216 <204-942-5216>*

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Job posting: Pedicab Drivers for The Forks
by Beth McKechnie 01 Jun '15

01 Jun '15

Hi everyone, The Forks is hiring 4-6 weekend pedicab drivers (riders?) this summer. Please share widely. thanks, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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WFP: The concrete canvas - A look at how the city paints Winnipeg's streets (May30'15)
by Beth McKechnie 01 Jun '15

01 Jun '15

THE CONCRETE CANVASA LOOK AT HOW THE CITY PAINTS WINNIPEG'S STREETS by Kristen Annable http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/special/featured/The-concrete-canvas-30547… The roads of Winnipeg take a beating every winter, from the layers of sand to the scrapping of snowplows. Then, when the snow melts away, an empty canvas is revealed, one where lane markings have been scrubbed clean. Figuring out where one lane ends and the next begins is Winnipeg’s own version of the video game *Frogger*. Eventually a team of city workers makes its way across Winnipeg and paints over the faded lines, creating a motorist’s masterpiece, where each lane, intersection and bike route is clearly marked. Then winter arrives, erasing their hard work. Come spring, they are back it again. The Free Press set out to examine this annual ritual, by meeting the crews behind the scenes and examining the reality of why Winnipeg’s lane markings disappear. And raising the question: is there not a better way? The short answer? Yes. The long answer? It’s a lot more complex. The nuts and bolts The city is responsible for painting about 1,000 kilometres of road and 1,061 intersections every year, usually once in the spring and again in the fall. Heavy-volume roads such as Main Street or Portage Avenue are often painted three times a year. Winnipeg’s disappearing lane markings are just another product of our harsh winter climate, explains the city’s superintendent of traffic services. Wes Delaney, who has devoted most of his professional life to organizing lane-painting in some capacity, probably understands the science that goes into painting roads and highways better than most Manitobans. "Our climate here sucks for painting. We have a short window to get all this done by November and then, of course, the snow hits and the sanders are out — that is the worst thing for the road paint: the sand," he says. "It is sandpaper grinding it off all winter long, until there is nothing left and then the plows come out and rip it all up." [image: The city paints more than 1,000 kilometres of road each year, going through 66,700 litres of paint.] <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/30d8_road8.jpg> TYLER WALSH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS The city paints more than 1,000 kilometres of road each year, going through 66,700 litres of paint. Also, the snow-clearing practice of scraping right to the concrete plays a role, he explains. Like most cities in North America, Winnipeg uses a quick-dry alkyd paint, and what it lacks in durability, it makes up for in low price. With the current technology and a crew of three workers, the city can do about 10 kilometres an hour, at a cost of about 38 cents a metre for the paint. It has an annual budget of about $1.1 million and goes through 66,700 litres of paint. The city tried to experiment with latex paint, which is slightly cheaper and what the province typically uses for its highways; however, the constant criss-crossing traffic created a mess of the roads, Delaney says. The city has one truck devoted to the task. It operates throughout the spring and summer, four days a week, once it gets warm enough for the paint to stick. Since May 4, city crews have been out in full force, beginning with priority routes such as high-traffic parts of Main Street or Pembina Highway and bridges such as Provencher. Next up are the Priority 2 roads, including Henderson Highway and the downtown core, before the rest of the city’s major and minor roads are tackled. It takes the crew until June just to finish the Priority 1 roads. Three times between May 4 and November, Winnipeggers will see the crew back at Main Street and other high-traffic stretches, painting them again and again, in hopes the lines will survive the winter. [image: A truck speeds down Regent Avenue, painting lane markers en route.] <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/150506-STREET_PAINTER1_1920.jpg> PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A truck speeds down Regent Avenue, painting lane markers en route. The crew At first glance, it looks as if only one worker, driving a large truck with two paint guns attached, is responsible for marking Winnipeg’s streets. But it takes more precision and manpower than that. The driver is more like an air-traffic controller to the two "pilots" who are hidden in the back compartment and who make sure the solid lines are painted solid, the dotted lines are dotted and the yellow paint goes where it should go. They are the artists of the roads you drive every day. And some, such as Frank Warenko, have been around for a decade, repainting the same streets every year, sometimes two or three times. "Ten years too long — the grey is starting to come from onto the road and into the hair," the veteran lane-liner operator jokes, one eye focused on the live camera in front of him, letting him know what is ahead. Warenko eases through the job of painting a stretch of Pembina Highway, paint throttle in hand, listening through his headset as the crew chief warns him of shifts in the road up ahead. The truck uses a laser to line up with existing lanes, allowing the crew to put down a fresh new coat, with colour, thickness and length based partially on their institutional knowledge and partially on the warnings of the crew chief. Only a foot separates Warenko and his lane-painting partner Bruce Evans in the cramped back cab, where the large computer system takes up most of the space. <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/150506-STREET_PAINTER2_1920.jpg> PHIL HOSSACK / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS "It is all automatic; we have three computers and everything is set by it and you adjust it by values and measures," Warenko says. The truck travels about 20 kilometres an hour, as Corey Bakker, the driver and crew chief, warns Warenko and Evans of upcoming changes, such as a switch from a dotted to solid line. Warenko then turns to his computer in front of him and chooses from multiple options — dotted, yellow, bus lanes, bike paths or double lines — with the turn of dial. Meanwhile, their live cameras can switch from viewing the road ahead or to looking behind at the completed work. Bakker has the lane painter’s bible, a detailed book that can tell him at a glance what colour to use, whether it is a regular lane, a bike lane or a specialty turning lane. It is his job to relay the information to the crews in the back, to make sure the concrete canvas is painted properly. Once it’s the proper road temperature — the paint guns won’t even fire until it’s in the range — and they have reached the right spot in the road, Bakker radios to Warenko that the magic is about to begin. "Now," Warenko says, partially to himself, but also to Evans and Bakker. The system is similar to the way the city’s sanding trucks work, but in this case, it monitors paint and bead levels. [image: Denis Bouchard paints road lines on University Crescent near the Investors Group Field.] <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/150525_LINE_PAINTING013_193.jpg> BORIS MINKEVICH / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Denis Bouchard paints road lines on University Crescent near the Investors Group Field. Time-delayed glass beads are released after the paint comes out. This gives Winnipeg’s roads their reflective quality — crucial for nighttime visibility. Winnipeg goes through more than 4,000 kilograms of these beads in a year. The paint truck is the only one the city owns and Warenko, Bakker, Evans and Delaney dream of the day the city invests in a second machine. At over $500,000, it is an expensive investment, but a wise one, Delaney says. "We could just get into the city and do a lot of places all at once," he says. "We could have one crew in one area, and one doing the other." A second truck would also cut down on the number of complaints he receives, because it would take less time after the spring melt to get the job done. It takes the crews about 24 weeks to complete the entire process, including eight to 10 weeks just to paint the city’s intersections. A better way? It costs the city $1,100 per kilometre of road it paints every year, a number that will continue to climb as Winnipeg grows. Some cities, such as Calgary and Saskatoon, are experimenting with more durable markings, tape and inlaid thermoplastic that will survive winter’s sand and snow to remain on roads for years at a time. However, the cost difference is astronomical, Delaney says. Saskatoon set out to find just how astronomical the difference is between painting annually versus choosing a durable option that can last five or 10 years. Using a 10-year estimate, the city determined it would cost at least double for a 10-year inlaid thermoplastic or five-year plastic durable marking, compared with painting each year. 'The big advantage is from a safety perspective. Drivers can clearly delineate between the lines, year-round.' — Angela Gardiner, on more durable line markings <http://www.twitter.com/share?text=%27The+big+advantage+is+from+a+safety+per…> Despite that, the city decided to double its durable-paint budget to $500,000 and is doing 27 kilometres of durable five-or 10-year marking this year, targeting its arterial roads. Angela Gardiner, manager of Saskatoon’s transportation branch, says it was not a hard decision — because you can’t put a price on increasing residents’ safety. "The big advantage is from a safety perspective. Drivers can clearly delineate between the lines, year-round," she says. "It is difficult to put a cost on a collision; there is a definitely a benefit to continue to expand." The city will be focusing on various roads and freeway entrances, but it must factor in the city’s road-repair plan, too, because it makes little sense to put a five-year marking on a road that is going to be torn up, she says. "It is a bit of a puzzle putting all this together," Gardiner says. The year-round safety benefits, compared with less disruption to traffic each year, all make switching away from paint an easy-sounding solution, other than the money factor, Delaney says. "It is in the millions, I have never even thought it out yet. But it would astronomical," he says. "If we had the budget to do that, we would definitely do it." It is not just the price per kilometre, but also the intense labour costs involved with either going with a tape or thermoplastic. It would require either several new, expensive trucks or having crews shut down entire sections of roads while they apply the tape manually. In a 2013 trial, a three-kilometre stretch of Pembina Highway south of Bishop Grandin Boulevard was lined with 3M tape, a durable marking that can last about five to seven years. It is holding up well, so far. However, it took about four days to lay down the tape, versus the 20 minutes it would take to paint the same section. The city plans to extend this stretch of 3M tape by a further one to three kilometres this summer. [image: Crews from the City of Winnipeg and Promark Line Painting attended a demonstration by Ennis-Flint, a traffic safety solutions company ,as they applied a green methyl methacrylate (MMA) or durable pavement marking to highlight the bicycle path along Pembina Highway.] <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/150526-ROAD-PAINT-01_193196.jpg> MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Crews from the City of Winnipeg and Promark Line Painting attended a demonstration by Ennis-Flint, a traffic safety solutions company ,as they applied a green methyl methacrylate (MMA) or durable pavement marking to highlight the bicycle path along Pembina Highway. Also, about one kilometre on Pembina Highway, north of Bishop Grandin, is being tested with methyl methacrylate (MMA) paint, a more durable paint similar to the epoxy paint used by Calgary that lasts five years. This week, crews returned to Pembina Highway to further test using MMA by painting a 20-foot green bike path marker near Chancellor Drive. The cost? About $1,000. Eventually, the hope is to use the MMA paint on bicycle lanes downtown, Delaney says. The MMA paint is highly visible — about eight times the reflectiveness of regular paint — and provides added traction for bike tires. "We are going to test it for the summer to see how it pans out and holds up." If the budget allowed for it, Delaney says he would "love" to see heavily travelled roads such as Main Street outfitted with 3M tape. "It’d be great, especially because it is new concrete along Main Street, so the paint really doesn’t stick," Delaney says. "It is always there for you. That is what you want — it is there in spring, summer, winter." In cities where there is less snow, such as Hamilton, road paint tends to last longer, but officials there are still keeping an eye on a more practical solution. Kris Jacobson, Hamilton’s superintendent of traffic operations, says there is a knowledge gap when it comes to installing and maintaining durable markings in a cost-effective manner. "We are beginning to see that the costs are starting to come in line. (But) is the technology advancing to the point where it does make sense to do this? Pricing, expertise with the equipment is starting to get there," he says. "Probably in the next couple of years, we will see a shift and it will become more cost effective." A spokeswoman for CAA Manitoba says they are supportive of using more durable paint, so drivers are better able to "follow the rules of the road." "It could help cut down on driver frustration, confusion and preventable accidents," Liz Kulyk says. "This may mean a larger upfront investment, but if it means lines are visible all year and don’t have to be repainted as often, it’s something CAA would support." Coun. Janice Lukes, the chairwoman for the city’s public works committee, agrees the stretch of her ward on Pembina Highway looks great and is much better for motorists. However, the St. Norbert councillor believes Winnipeggers want to see their roads repaired before the city spends the money on durable paint. Once the city gets a better handle on its infrastructure deficit, she fully supports moving towards more durable markings on the arterial roads. "You give a person a choice: do you want a nicely painted road or do you want a road that actually functions? You are going to want a road that functions," she says. "Right now, where this city is at with infrastructure, I would hazard to say that having functional roads, not full of potholes, is more important than inlaid paint on the road." kristin.annable(a)freepress.mb.ca

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AT Webinar: Talking Biking - Language that Defuses Bike Backlashes, Wed, June 3, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 29 May '15

29 May '15

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP webinar: *Talking Biking - Language that Defuses Bike Backlashes (Protected Lanes #3).* The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. If you can't join us, please note that this is a free webinar, so you can register to view it on your own <https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1992998232325245954> or watch the recording at a later date. It will be posted a few days later on apbp.org <http://www.apbp.org/?page=Free_Webinars>. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Talking Biking: Language that Defuses Bike Backlashes (Protected Lanes #3) *Wednesday, June 3rd, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Words shape thoughts. Two skilled communicators from cities that have successfully overcome intense backlashes against bicycle infrastructure will share their tactics and experiences and take your questions. Featuring: - Cathy Tuttle, Executive Director of Seattle Neighborhood Greenways, and - Doug Gordon of BrooklynSpoke.com, in conversation with - PeopleForBikes staff writer Michael Andersen.

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Active & Green: Commuting with kids, Hit the trails, Commuter Challenge
by Beth McKechnie 28 May '15

28 May '15

In case you haven't seen it, here's the latest issue of Active & Green. If you'd like to subscribe or see back issues, here you go <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/active-green/>. Or please share with your networks: http://eepurl.com/bnrUqX Tucked into one of the stories is a recent popular blog post on avoiding helmet hair <http://greenactioncentre.ca/living-green-living-well/oh-no-helmet-hair/>. thanks, Beth Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser. <http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3f55cc&id=936a2c1984…> *A better way to go* Want to improve commuter options at your workplace? We can help <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> . <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> ------------------------------ Are you registered? It's time for the Commuter Challenge! May 31 to June 6. Be sure that your workplace is registered and that you are signed up as an employee. There are awesome prizes <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> to be won. Visit our website for full details <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>. ------------------------------ *7 excuses not to ride your bike* There are many great reasons to try cycling to work <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>. But you may have some concerns or barriers that seem insurmountable. Check out 7 common barriers <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> (and how to overcome them). ------------------------------ *Commuting with kids: Panel discussion* Do you want to try an active or green commute, but feel limited because you also need to transport your children? Join us for a lunchtime panel discussion during Bike Week on Commuting With Kids <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>. Hear from folks who face the same hurdles as you, and get some hints and tips to incorporate active transportation into your lifestyle! Lunch hour, Thursday, June 18th, at the Millennium Library. Full details here <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>. ------------------------------ *Share your cycling concerns* Is there a stretch of your bike commute that you find is poorly designed or dangerous? Tell the Free Press about it. They are collecting data and mapping troublesome areas. Check it out <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> and contribute! ------------------------------ *Upcoming Events* *Bike to School Month & Clean Air Day* <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> May 4 - June 3 *Commuter Challenge* <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> May 31 - June 6 *Clean Air Day On The Bridge* <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> 7-9am, Wednesday, June 3 *Bike Week Winnipeg* <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> June 13 - 19 *Commuting With Kids: Panel* <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> Noon-1pm, Thursday, June 18 ------------------------------ Like what you read? Check out some back issues <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> . *Winnipeg Pedestrian and Cycling Strategies* The strategies, which await approval from City Council, will help guide development over the next two decades, making it easier and more comfortable for all ages and abilities to walk and bike in the city. Here are our Top 10 Reasons <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> for Council to officially adopt the plan! *Hit the trails running* Green Action Centre employees are once again taking part in the David Suzuki 30x30 Challenge <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>. For the month of May, this challenge encourages individuals to get outdoors for 30 minutes every day. Follow #30x30Challenge, #natureiscalling and #greenaction on Twitter. Staffer Mel Marginet shares why she ditched the treadmill to hit the trails <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> ! *Carpool = sustainable too* If walking, cycling or taking the bus doesn't work for you, how about carpooling? It's easy to do but there are a few guidelines to help ensure you have a good experience. Check out our carpooling tips <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> [pdf] such as how to find a partner and setting expectations. Equally important is figuring out a fair cost sharing arrangement <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>. Not convinced it will work for you? Check out this story <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> of one car pool adventure that was so successful, the co-workers involved decided to buy a van together! *"Back door, please!"* If you've ridden the bus in Winnipeg, you've probably heard it. Possibly numerous times a ride. The panicked rider who can't open the back door and is afraid of being swept to the next stop. "Back door, please. BACK DOOR!" To help, we've put together this post <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>on all of the exiting options and ranked them from best to worst. Give it a read, and recommend it to new transit users. *See you on the bridge* Stop in at our tent on Wednesday, June 3, for Clean Air Day on the Bridge <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>! We'll be out on the Legislative grounds, just north of the Osborne Bridge. Bring your travel mug for some coffee, get some quick tune-ups done on your bike, and grab a tasty treat from Tall Grass Prairie <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>. Yum. We'll be there from 7:00-9:00 AM, as part of Commuter Challenge <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> week. You are receiving this email because you are an Active & Green subscriber. Our mailing address is: Green Action Centre 3-303 Portage Ave. Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2B4 Canada Copyright (C) 2015 Green Action Centre All rights reserved. Forward <http://us2.forward-to-friend1.com/forward?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3f55cc&id=93…> this email to a friend Update your profile <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/profile?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a…> [image: Email Marketing Powered by MailChimp] <http://www.mailchimp.com/monkey-rewards/?utm_source=freemium_newsletter&utm…> -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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2 minutes of awesome
by Stacy Matwick 28 May '15

28 May '15

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Please Share
by David Pensato 28 May '15

28 May '15

http://bikeandeat.ca #BikeToOscarsWPG “The owner of Oscar’s Deli worries the protected bike lane will eat up precious parking spots his customers use when coming by for lunch.” According to the CBC, Larry Brown is concerned about a loss of business if Winnipeg beefs up its cycling infrastructure. We get it. Small businesses walk a fine line, and the restaurant business in particular works on really thin margins. And sure, the bike advocates and new urbanists can point to studies and experiences from other cities that claim he shouldn’t have anything to worry about, but at the end of the day, Larry Brown is the guy who has to make sure his staff stay employed. It’s Oscar’s Deli that stands to lose. We believe that biking is good for business, so let’s prove it. Let’s show Winnipeg’s small business owners how much can be gained by becoming more bike friendly. Let’s bike to Oscar’s and grab a bite. Not all at once— 2000 cyclists showing up at lunch wouldn’t be helpful. Here’s what we’d like to try instead. If you ride a bike, we’d like you to Bike to Oscar’s Deli in Winnipeg between May 31st and June 13 for breakfast or lunch with a few friends. Be sure to take a picture and share it on social media with #BikeToOscarsWPG. And when you get there, let them know that you love them, and be sure to tell everyone you know about it too. Seriously, there aren’t many places left in Winnipeg that can make a proper Ruben. We support Oscar’s, and we support good bike infrastructure. It’s not us and them. It’s us and us.

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TOMORROW: Join us for the Commuter Challenge Launch (there's food!)
by Beth McKechnie 27 May '15

27 May '15

We hope you will join us at The Forks tomorrow for the Commuter Challenge media launch. Refreshments will be served! *Time: 11:00-11:30am * *Date: Thursday, May 28th* *Where: The Forks (see map below)* No spoiler alert here: We encourage you to arrive on foot, by bike, transit or carpool. -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Full cost of your commute
by Beth McKechnie 27 May '15

27 May '15

An interesting data journalism project on the full cost of commuting from Metro Vancouver. Get the full details here <http://movingforward.discoursemedia.org/costofcommute/>.

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CBC: Winnipeg tries out bright green strips for safer bike lanes
by Shoni Madden 26 May '15

26 May '15

Great to see the city trying these green strips! http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/winnipeg-tries-out-bright-green-stri… The City of Winnipeg is trying out bright green "anti-skid" strips to boost visibility and safety along bicycle lanes. City crews were out on Tuesday applying the "durable pavement marking" to two tiny sections of the bike lane on Pembina Highway. The idea is to alert cyclists and motorists to high-risk areas where there might be a greater risk of collisions. But it doesn't come cheap. "We are applying this product to two small 14-metre (45-foot) sections," the city's communications officer, Lisa Fraser, said in an email. "Total cost about $2,000 for material and labour." The product applied by the crews is called Mmax green and it is undoubtedly eye-catching. It contains aluminum dioxide to make it anti-skid and is rolled on to create texture. The notion is that the material should last more than five years, making it more cost-effective than the taping now used on bike lanes. City council this month approved a 20-year plan to enhance pedestrian corridors and crossings and connect the city in a network of bike paths, but the plan was subject to further examination after objections, particularly from downtown entrepreneurs who fear the system will eat up rare parking spots near their establishments. - Office of Public Engagement to review $334M Winnipeg bike lane project <http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/office-of-public-engagement-to-revie…> The city says the current bicycle network encompasses nearly 400 km of facilities in various forms. equal to roughly 8% of Winnipeg's 3,100 km of streets and roads, and comparable in scope to other mid-sized cities in the Canadian prairies and U.S. midwest. [image: Inline image 1] -- *Shoni Madden* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3779 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/> * Please note that my regular office hours are Tuesdays/Thursdays. I will respond to your communication at this time.

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FW: PACM POSITION DESCRIPTION, please circulate
by Kristine Hayward 26 May '15

26 May '15

Please find attached the position description for the PACM coordinator position. Please share widely. Kristine Hayward Physical Activity Promotion/in motion Coordinator Winnipeg Regional Health Authority 2nd floor - 490 Hargrave Street Winnipeg, MB R3A 0X7 Cell 204 232-7546 Fax 204 940-2690 Email khayward(a)wrha.mb.ca Bike racks are available in front of the building at the corner of Hargrave and McDermot. Plan your Winnipeg Transit trip: http://winnipegtransit.com/en/navigo Follow Winnipeg in motion on Twitter - @wpginmotion Check out our videos on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/Winnipeginmotion This email and/or any documents in this transmission is intended for the addressee(s) only and may contain legally privileged or confidential information. Any unauthorized use, disclosure, distribution, copying or dissemination is strictly prohibited. If you receive this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and return the original. Ce courriel et tout document dans cette transmission est destiné à la personne ou aux personnes à qui il est adressé. Il peut contenir des informations privilégiées ou confidentielles. Toute utilisation, divulgation, distribution, copie, ou diffusion non autorisée est strictement défendue. Si vous n'êtes pas le destinataire de ce message, veuillez en informer l'expéditeur immédiatement et lui remettre l'original.

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PBIC hosting webinar on economic value of nonmotorized transportation
by Beth McKechnie 26 May '15

26 May '15

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> To: AT network <AT-Network(a)lists.umanitoba.ca>, Anders Swanson < andersswanson(a)gmail.com>, Mark Cohoe <mcohoe(a)casch.com> Date: Tue, 26 May 2015 07:51:58 -0500 Subject: webinar on economic value of nonmotorized transportation AnnouncementsPBIC hosting webinar on economic value of nonmotorized transportation PBIC will hold a webinar on June 4 on how to evaluate the economic benefits of investing in nonmotorized transportation. The webinar is based on FHWA's recent recport: "Evaluating the Economic Benefits of Nonmotorized Transportation," whie documents several economic benefits of these investments and provides a resources for communities who are interested in measuring the economic impact of future projects. You can access the report at: http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/data/library/details.cfm?id=4926. Presenters include Erica Simmons, with the John A Volpe Transportation Systems Center; Sean Quinn, from New York City's Department of Transportation; and Greg Lindsey, from the University of Minnesota. See http://www.pedbikeinfo.org/training/webinars_PBIC_LC_060415.cfm for more information on the webinar and how to register -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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#BikeToOscarsWPG
by David Pensato 25 May '15

25 May '15

I threw an idea out on Twitter today suggesting that Winnipeg’s cyclists might make a concerted effort to frequent Oscar’s Deli in the next two weeks (partly here: https://twitter.com/pensato/status/601736342511357952 and here: https://twitter.com/pensato/status/601758737448075264). There seems to be some appetite (pardon the pun) to this approach. I think it would serve two purposes: Creatively reinforce the message that accommodating cyclists is good for business. Create a sense of goodwill and (2b?) present the bike-commuter community as the opposite of an angry, belligerent mob. For it to work, we would need some (loose) planning and some public promotion. I don’t think it would take much more than spreading the hashtag above and some mechanism for coordination of (self-organized) groups of cyclists together with a way of communicating that they have come to eat as goodwill ambassadors. If there’s enough interest, I’d be happy to work with one or two people on making this work. So. Are you interested? Anyone willing to help if there is enough interest?

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Kevin Nixon's Retirement Celebration
by Beth McKechnie 25 May '15

25 May '15

Join us to celebrate Kevin Nixon's retirement as AT Coordinator for the City of Winnipeg. Come say thanks to Kevin for his dedicated commitment over the past 8 years to improve walking and cycling in Winnipeg. hope to see you there! Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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Sunday street closure signs & letter to residents
by Beth McKechnie 25 May '15

25 May '15

For interest, here are samples of the signage from Scotia Street. Notably, those (irritating) signs reminding cyclists that motorists have the right to use the street have been removed in place of these signs. Also attached is the letter that was sent to residents regarding the Sunday street closures. cheers, Beth -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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WFP: Sunday drivers get warning (May25'15) plus photos & letter to residents
by Beth McKechnie 25 May '15

25 May '15

Sunday drivers get warningIn future, tickets will be issued to motorists violating ban By: Jessica Botelho-Urbanski http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/sunday-drivers-get-warning-304884591… Motorists on four Winnipeg streets got off with verbal warnings Sunday, but hefty fines loom for those who drive too far on them on restricted days. A traffic bylaw introduced by the city last August will result in more action in the coming weeks as police begin to ticket those who drive more than one block on Wellington Crescent, Lyndale Drive, Wolseley Avenue and Scotia Street on Sundays and holidays. >From 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., those streets are meant to be enjoyed by cyclists and pedestrians with reduced traffic, Const. Jason Michalyshen said Sunday. The dates are fixed, with the restrictions occurring annually from the Sunday preceding Victoria Day to Thanksgiving, including all Sundays and statutory holidays between those dates, regardless of weather. Drivers face a fine of $190.80 for driving more than the allotted one block through the bike routes. There were previously barricades up on the four streets, reminding drivers that roadways were for "local traffic only" on Sundays and holidays. The barricades were removed this year and replaced with white signs at intersections, which read, "Motor vehicle travel limited to one block, 8:00-20:00, Sundays and holidays." "I think over time there was a lot of confusion as to what those barricades meant," Michalyshen said. "We have to realize there are people who live in this community and who have to gain access to their homes and so forth. But also, there are roadways like Wellington Crescent, Lyndale, Wolseley and Scotia, that are streets that people really like to enjoy on those Sundays and holidays, with reduced traffic and a little bit more tranquillity." Wellington Crescent was teeming with cyclists, joggers and pedestrians Sunday as police began their soft launch of the new bylaw program. Two officers stopped nearly 300 vehicles driving down Wellington at Oxford Street, alerting them to the Sunday road rules still in place, regardless of the lack of barricades. All got off with a verbal warning. Chris Frayer was stopped by the traffic unit Sunday and said he didn't know there were new signs replacing the barricades. "I don't know what the problem would be with barricades going up, honestly. It's a pretty profound reminder that you're not supposed to be doing this," he said. Frayer said he is in favour of the Sunday and holiday street closures, but could see police's traffic ticketing being misinterpreted. "They're just going to get criticized as a cash grab, too, when they start cracking down on it, like another revenue generator," Frayer said. "They have to really balance the public message." Laura Lazo and John Markham were walking their dog on Wellington Crescent when they saw police stopping vehicles. They've lived on Montrose Street for 15 years and don't usually see this much action. "Sometimes there will be someone going maybe more than a block, but it's really slow, so it's not a problem. But every now and then, there's someone who's really cruising down," Markham said. "I remember one time somebody swearing at me because I was riding my bike on a Sunday on the street," Lazo said. "For me, this (bylaw) is an asset for Winnipeg." Not having the barricades in place to warn drivers of wrongdoing will take some getting used to, police and pedestrians realize. But having a clear-cut bylaw in place will help police respond to infractions fairly, said Michalyshen. "By getting rid of that ambiguity, we have a little more teeth with respect to what we can do with that particular driver," said Michalyshen. "Every situation is different, but again, this isn't about ticketing. This isn't about handing out a (hand) full of tickets. It's about changing behaviours." *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 25, 2015 0*

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WFP: Plan would redefine downtown - Pedestrians and cyclists key to urban renewal (May25'15)
by Beth McKechnie 25 May '15

25 May '15

Plan would redefine downtownPedestrians and cyclists key to urban renewal On Architecture By: Brent Bellamy <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/128193938.html> http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/plan-would-redefine-dow… Most mid-sized North American cities have struggled to maintain a healthy downtown retail market. Winnipeg is no different. Shops that once lined Portage Avenue have been replaced by government offices and for lease signs. Longtime anchors such as Eaton's and Holt Renfrew are now only a memory and The Bay is withering away like a fruit clinging to a branch in late autumn. The city's sprawling suburbs are served by big-box stores floating in oceans of asphalt parking. The shape of the city has changed and so have our shopping habits. In the late 1980s, Portage Place mall was constructed as a last-ditch effort to out suburb the suburbs, but it has struggled almost since the day it opened. Even with downtown's large surface parking lots and 35,000 stalls, it is unlikely there will ever be enough parking to compete with the convenience of suburban shopping. Portage Place has demonstrated that even connected to a large, heated parkade, downtown retail struggles as a commuter destination. The perception remains, however, that urban restaurants, services and retailers must cater to drive-up customers to be successful. This issue came into the spotlight two weeks ago as Winnipeg's new bike-and-pedestrian strategy was being presented to city council. Responding to the proposed plan, Coun. Russ Wyatt (Transcona) wrote a letter to downtown business owners, warning them 13 new protected bike lanes to be built over the next 20 years may lead to a loss of some of the city's 2,000 on-street parking stalls. While this is likely true, the notion the success of downtown retail is tied to the availability of parking is one that will likely have to change if businesses are to find long-term success. Almost exclusively, North American cities with prosperous retail cores are those with a dense residential neighbourhood at their centre. One of the few proven models to establish urban commercial viability is to create an active, diverse, pedestrian-oriented neighbourhood that supports the shops as a local market and focuses on growing foot traffic above commuter vehicle traffic. Understanding this and other benefits of a strong downtown population has led to a concentrated effort to attract new residents to Winnipeg's city centre over the last decade. Many excellent initiatives have found success, with 1,800 new residential units being built in that time and 1,650 more currently under construction or being planned. With 17,000 residents, there are more people living downtown today than ever. Despite these gains, almost all of those residential units has been built with government help, through residential development and heritage grants or tax-increment financing programs. To maintain growth in the downtown, the economics of real estate development must be self-supporting. Lower demand means rental and condominium sale prices do not yet match higher construction costs, requiring government assistance to bridge the financial gap. To increase market demand and balance the development equation, the focus of urban renewal must not only concentrate on increasing the population, but on building a neighbourhood that offers the amenities that make urban living a unique and attractive option. The fundamental quality of life incentive to attract urban residents is the ability to connect to amenities such as school or work, restaurants, grocery stores, shopping and services, without the use of a vehicle. Transforming downtown into a walkable city centre that focuses on the pedestrian and cyclist experience first is the most important investment Winnipeg can make to promote an urban lifestyle different from the suburbs. It is an important concept in the creation of a downtown community with a self-sustaining real estate market that will in turn support a prosperous central retail sector. The bike-and-pedestrian strategy will directly respond to this idea by vastly improving Winnipeg's non-vehicular mobility downtown. It will build strong bridges between the islands of existing residential development in the city centre, creating a cohesive multi-modal circulation network that allows residents to easily access amenities across the core area. Few initiatives could be more transformational for the quality of urban living in Winnipeg than implementing a plan to prioritize the pedestrian and cycling experience. The proposed bicycle network is based on a city-wide 'hub and spoke' concept. Almost 80 kilometres of protected bicycle lanes will establish a series of radial arteries along key corridors that connect the central city to a comprehensive set of neighbourhood greenways and off-street paths. The entire system comes with a projected cost similar to that of a single roadway project such as building an underpass on Waverley Street or the widening of Kenaston Boulevard. The vast network of protected bike lanes planned for downtown would cost only $7 million if implemented today. Winnipeg is not alone in fearing the loss of on-street parking and it's affect on downtown business. The debate happens in almost every city when bike-lane plans first emerge. Winnipeg has the advantage of being able to learn from those who have already implemented such plans. From Portland to Vancouver, Toronto, Seattle, Fort Worth, Texas, and Memphis, the economic impact has been studied over and over again. Each time, a similar conclusion is reached: Losing parking to bike lanes has little negative impact on local business and in many cases, improves it. Studies found cyclists spend more than drivers and visit more often. The addition of bike lanes to a street also has a calming effect on traffic, which attracts even more people. It is often found downtown streets with bike lanes become the most successful commercial corridors, commanding the highest property values. After 60 years of designing a city overwhelmingly for the needs of the automobile, the progressive ideas in the bike-and-pedestrian strategy will finally begin to put people first. It is a visionary plan that, if implemented, would redefine the city and instantly make Winnipeg an active-transportation leader in North America. The plan will unify Winnipeg's large and disconnected city centre, improve the quality of life for downtown residents and be a strong catalyst in the establishment of a connected, self-sufficient urban community that is a permanent and local pedestrian market for the businesses that will inevitably lose the parking-convenience war against their suburban competition. Brent Bellamy is senior design architect for Number Ten Architectural Group. bbellamy(a)numberten.com *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 25, 2015 B4*

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WFP: 'Use it or lose it' money rule hurts city - cycling and pedestrian infrastructure (May23'15)
by Beth McKechnie 25 May '15

25 May '15

‘Use it or lose it’ money rule hurts city By: Bartley Kives <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/33841564.html> http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/Use-it-or-lose-it-money… To opponents of new downtown bike lanes, any expansion of Winnipeg’s cycling and pedestrian infrastructure will push cars off the road, force toddlers to work in salt mines and hasten the coming of the Apocalypse to the point where it’d be unwise to purchase T-bills that mature in more than 90 days. OK, so maybe no one’s actually talking about child slavery or the end of the world, but the hyperbolic chatter about the supposed evils of bike lanes is getting tough to tolerate. This is not just because most North American cities are becoming more like their European counterparts in trying to make movement easier for commuter cyclists. It’s also not just because of the positive economic results of improving pedestrian streetscapes in built-up urban areas. Rather, anti-bike baloney is tough to take because the creation of new bicycle lanes does little to hinder motorists, at least where parking-protected bike lanes are concerned. When the City of Winnipeg moved over a lane of parking on Sherbrook Street in West Broadway, there was initial skepticism. The resulting improvement to the streetscape, however, turned out to be dramatic, as pedestrians now wait for buses on the new transit islands and business has thrived on both side of the road. This demonstrates how people can be drawn to streets designed for human beings as well as cars. The motor-vehicle capacity of Sherbrook Street was barely affected. Now, the city has drawn up plans to create more parking-protected lanes on inner-city streets. These are cheaper and easier to create than building bike lanes that are completely separate from roads. So where, you may ask, is the opposition coming from? The answer lies with previous city mistakes when it comes to creating cycling infrastructure. Opponents of commuter cycling are justified in criticizing the way the city rolled out a $21-million infrastructure upgrade in 2010, when there wasn’t enough time or city staff to properly plan, tender and build an unprecedented package of new lanes for cyclists and pedestrians. The problem at the time, however, had nothing to do with the imagined evils of cycling infrastructure. Rather, it had everything to do with the flawed federal pot of infrastructure money known as the Building Canada Fund. In theory, money from this kitty flows when three levels of government — Ottawa, the province and the city — all agree on the importance of a project. In reality, Ottawa shows up with a pile of money and tells the city and the province they can use it or lose it. As a result, projects go ahead before they’re ready, as panicky municipal politicians hastily sign on the dotted line in fear of losing out on the latest morsel of federal money. The 2010 upgrade turned out to be a mess because the city didn’t have the capacity to implement it. There were no qualified staff on hand because of a previous decision to eliminate dozens of middle managers for the ironic sake of finding efficiencies. But hey, when Ottawa offers money, you take it, right? As a recent scathing audit demonstrated, a similar stupidity was at work with Waverley West arterial roads, which had an original price tag of $55 million. After the project ballooned to $70 million, council demanded to know why. Auditors said the original estimate was so rough, there was no way the city could have predicted the final cost and got lucky it only rose to $70 million. Why would the city proceed with a project without knowing what it would cost? The answer, again, is the Building Canada Fund. Ottawa came to the city looking for a "shovel-ready" project. The Waverley West plan, nowhere near shovel-ready, was identified in vote-rich southwest Winnipeg. So ahead it went, in a format where the city wound up paying for all of the additional costs because the deal locked in the federal and provincial contributions at the outset. Following the Waverley West cost overrun, few Winnipeggers are demanding an end to the expansion of the city’s regional road network. It’s telling that a small but vocal anti-bike contingent wants to put the brakes on new bike lanes and that’s about it. What all Winnipeggers should demand is more freedom for the city to build whatever it needs to build, free of provincial and federal interference. Roads aren’t evil and bike lanes aren’t evil. Politicians who try to use infrastructure money to buy votes are the villains here. bartley.kives(a)freepress.mb.ca

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What to do if you're hit by a car.
by Stacy Matwick 23 May '15

23 May '15

What to do if you're hit by a car while riding your bike | | | | | | | | | | | What to do if you're hit by a car while riding your bikeHere are five things you should do if you’re ever unlucky enough to be hit. And a shining example of what not to do. | | | | View on grist.org | Preview by Yahoo | | | | |

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from: David Wieser
by David Wieser 22 May '15

22 May '15

Good evening at http://zbiorniki.net/lose.php?fill=tdryq76aur7c0bud davidwieser(a)gmail.com Sent from my iPhone

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Southwest Transitway Project - Public Information Session
by Beth McKechnie 22 May '15

22 May '15

[image: Inline image 1] -- *Brendan Salakoh, MCIP, MScPl* *Dillon Consulting Limited* 1558 Willson Place Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3T 0Y4 T - 204.453.2301 ext. 4060 F - 204.452.4412 BSalakoh(a)dillon.ca www.dillon.ca P *Please consider the environment before printing this email.*

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Article on bike share equity
by Patman, David 21 May '15

21 May '15

Some ideas to consider should we ever have a bikeshare program in Winnipeg. http://www.vox.com/2015/5/15/8608567/bike-share-wealth-race

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FWHA releases Separated Bike Lane Planning and Design Guide
by Mark Cohoe 19 May '15

19 May '15

Some big news south of the border. The US Federal Highways Administration has just released the 148 page Separated Bike Lane Planning and Design Guide. From the Green Lanes project blog <http://www.peopleforbikes.org/blog/entry/the-feds-jump-on-board-protected-b…>. The FHWA guidance released Tuesday <http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bicycle_pedestrian/publications/separat…> is the result of two years of research <http://www.peopleforbikes.org/blog/entry/at-last-feds-move-toward-a-green-l…> into numerous modern protected bike lanes around the country, in consultation with a team of national experts. "Separated bike lanes have great potential to fill needs in creating low-stress bicycle networks," the FHWA document says, citing last year's study <http://www.peopleforbikes.org/blog/entry/the-first-major-academic-study-of-…> by the National Institute for Transportation and Communities. "Many potential cyclists (including children and the elderly) may avoid on-street cycling if no physical separation from vehicular traffic is provided." Among the many useful images and ideas in the 148-page document <http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/bicycle_pedestrian/publications/separat…> is this spectrum of comfortable bike lanes, starting with bike infrastructure that will be useful to the smallest number of people and continuing into the more broadly appealing categories: Mark

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AT Webinar Reminder: Law enforcement strategies to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, Wed, May 20, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 19 May '15

19 May '15

*** Friendly reminder re tomorrow afternoon's APBP webinar *** Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP webinar: *Law Enforcement Strategies to Improve Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety**. * The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Law Enforcement Strategies to Improve Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety *Wednesday, May 20th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Effective law enforcement is a key factor in ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists have safe, equitable access to the public right-of-way. Attend this webinar to learn about law enforcement programs that raise awareness of traffic safety, shape behavior, and improve safety for vulnerable users. This session focuses on three approaches to law enforcement: 1. Seattle’s data-driven SeaStat program, a collaboration between Seattle’s DOT and Police Department that identifies hot spots and dangerous behavior through collision record analysis and speed and traffic volume data. 2. Seattle’s School Zone Safety Photo Enforcement Program, which measures success by the reduction in speeds and violations. Revenue from the speed cameras goes into safety improvements around schools. 3. Behavior change brought about by programs focused on education and positive interactions between law enforcement officers, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. *Presenters*: - Jim Curtin, City of Seattle Department of Transportation - Brian Dougherty, City of Seattle Department of Transportation - Major Jim Russell, Deputy Chief of Police, Florida State University Police Department -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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WFP Editorial: A cycling city is good for business (May16'15)
by Beth McKechnie 16 May '15

16 May '15

Editorials <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/editorials>A cycling city is good for business http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/editorials/a-cycling-city-is-good-… Winnipeg's city councillors should get mobile, get on a bike and tool around a bit. Maybe cycle to work on any given day. They might have an epiphany of sorts -- and then get on with the job of turning Winnipeg into a city that welcomes cyclists -- instead of falling prey to urban myths about bike lanes endangering downtown businesses. What else besides simple ignorance could explain Mayor Brian Bowman's decision this week to delay the vote on adopting Winnipeg's pedestrian and cycling strategy? The strategy is a long-identified pillar in the city's active transportation plan. There were numerous community consultations, one last year at the Manitoba Hydro headquarters on Portage Avenue, where the public and interested parties -- downtown businesses -- were asked to feed into the city's vision. Now Coun. Russ Wyatt says downtown businesses were blindsided, caught entirely without consultation. His target is the matrix of protected bicycle lanes proposed for downtown. It will steal precious parking spots, he believes. First of all, cycling lanes and on-street parking are not mutually exclusive. Sherbrook Street's protected bike lane is just one example how the two can coexist. Second, downtown Winnipeg doesn't have a parking problem -- a truism often cited as a symptom of downtown's real challenge, which is to attract people to its streets and shops outside of standard work hours. This city has an embarrassingly excess amount of surface parking, with rates so cheap they are the envy of motorists in other major Canadian cities. The proposed protected bike lanes are the priority of the pedestrian and cycling strategy made public this week. The planning document is written to launch more formal consultation and then design of a future pedestrian/cycling network. Rough estimates are it would cost $330 million to build the active transportation projects over the next two decades. But for a couple of million dollars to be spent this year, none of that cash has been found or approved. This plan, though, does give hope that Winnipeg may finally evolve from its car culture to one with streets, bridges and major corridors designed for people. Winnipeg's pedestrian and cycling strategy document shows what can be done. It also shows there's a lot of work ahead. Some of the proposed routes mysteriously end mid-street, starting up again a couple of kilometres on. Most of the strategy favours bike lanes that share the road, a drawback especially in winter. There's talk in the report of some 16 new river or rail crossings for cyclists and pedestrians. Major routes, such as Main, Portage and Pembina, will continue to be big obstacles for cyclists, with a possibility of future study on them. Right now, Winnipeg says it has more than 300 kilometres of cycling and bike/pedestrian routes. Most of this is in trails and paths and in narrow, painted curb lanes for cyclists, where they still must compete for space on busy streets. By comparison, Minneapolis, regarded as the best city in North America for cyclists, has about 200 kilometres of on-street protected bike lanes alone, and 150 kilometres of trails. Another 80 kilometres are to be added by 2020. People move to Minneapolis specifically because it makes cycling an infrastructure priority. The cycling routes are regarded as a boon to businesses and merchants. Downtown business should embrace this strategy. The payback of ceding ground to bicycles goes beyond the dividends to cyclists and health budgets. Cycling routes encourage people to get out, explore and enjoy their cities. That's something Winnipeg needs, and the downtown could desperately use. *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 16, 2015 A14*

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Don't put the brakes on bikes in downtown
by Dave Elmore 16 May '15

16 May '15

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/analysis/dont-brake-on-bikes-in-dow ntown-303983971.html Don't brake on bikes in downtown But having a clear pathway is necessary By: Stefano Grande The Downtown Winnipeg BIZ supports the city's active-transportation blueprint. Now it's time to proceed to the next step: consulting with the downtown community. Many of us have travelled to other cities to see first-hand how downtowns are benefiting from increased bike lanes, which encourage cyclists to visit their downtowns and to frequent businesses. An increase in cycling is a trend that is taking over North America and the marketplace. More residents are discovering their neighbourhoods by bicycle, hanging out at their local pubs and cafés. Office workers are commuting downtown from the inner city or even as far as the suburbs. Tourists are renting bicycles to explore unique destinations. The need for more cycling amenities and infrastructure is being driven by these people as part of an emerging trend. Many cities have done it wrong and have made every imaginable mistake. Inadequate education for the public and stakeholders, or a rush to roll out cycling infrastructure without paying attention to the details and the needs of property owners and business owners -- these foreseeable challenges could be mitigated if we put community first. Some downtowns have eliminated on-street parking hastily to facilitate the creation of bike lanes, with little regard to understanding that on-street parking is the lifeblood of our storefront retailers, restaurants and shop owners. Realities such as the need for loading zones, deliveries, accessibility for people in wheelchairs and other mobility challenges, and dozens more issues are often not properly taken into consideration. In these cities, you will find staunch opposition, and rightfully so. The rush to roll out cycling lanes without proper process, thought, foresight and consultation, can lead to tensions among the community, extra costs to address the issues after the fact, and in some cases, negative economic impact. But some cities are doing it right. A city we can all relate to is Minneapolis. Their residents have a love for cycling and biking lanes. One evening when I was there, I saw thousands of cyclists strolling downtown, milling about, and gobbling up every inch of space found on hundreds of bike racks installed by the city and businesses. They were there for restaurants, cafés, live art and theatre performance and to just hang out. There is no doubt in my mind the City of Minneapolis has foresight. As their downtown has developed and evolved, they have wanted to accommodate the cycling community and by working hand in hand with their stakeholders -- their efforts are working. Through proper planning, education, listening to the needs and concerns of the community, Minneapolis is seen as the best practice approach in the world when adopting more cycling amenities and infrastructure. Winnipeg is perhaps where Minneapolis was 10 years ago -- with increased development activity, from more classrooms, to more condos and apartments, and the growing office workers and more visitors coming to the MTS Centre and the sports, hospitality, and entertainment district (SHED). Do we want to have safer bike lanes for those working, living and coming to the downtown in a balanced and well-thought-out manner? The Downtown BIZ believes so. Rolling out the cycling strategy in an incremental, engaging and planned process with the downtown community is imperative. Businesses can create reasons for people to jump on their bikes to hang out downtown, so it's not just about adding bike lanes. It's about taking into consideration how bike parking is going to be accommodated at key locations. It's about allowing businesses on bike-lane streets to allow for advertising signage and banners, more outdoor seating, or reduced on-site parking requirements to help businesses attract more customers. Some other downtowns have also integrated the rollout of cycling lanes with marketing and branding efforts so different streets become well-recognized destination corridors. In some cities, changing traffic flows to better accommodate the flow of cars and bikes collectively are acted on. In other cities, limiting cycling lanes to the times of busiest activity works well, too. As our city has now provided its vision and recommendations for development of the pedestrian and cycling strategies, it has clearly stated that the plan will evolve based on the next step to further involve community and drill down on the feasibility and designs. This is the next step, and we need to get this right. Much trust will need to be placed in the hands of the city, even if the process takes longer than anticipated. It's easy to focus on the failures of other cities or to debate about the next steps, and hold them up as examples and excuses of not to do anything. We have done that with rapid transit for decades. We are now catching up. These are the cities young people are not gravitating toward to stay, learn, work and live. It's much harder to move forward collectively with the community, and learning from best practice, learning by listening to each other, minimizing the issues and maximizing the opportunities, making decisive decisions and creating a city for everyone. Stefano Grande is the executive director of the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ. Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition May 16, 2015 A15

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Bike Winnipeg Response to Russ Wyatt's Recent Claims
by Mark Cohoe 14 May '15

14 May '15

Hi, You may have seen some of Russ Wyatt's accusations about limited public consultation and early access/undue influence on the part of Bike Winnipeg (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/Russ-Wyatt-proves-to-be…). You can view our response at our webiste (http://bikewinnipeg.ca/2015/05/14/russ-wyatts-antics-nothing-more-than-fear…) or on our Facebook site (facebook.com/BikeWinnipeg). Please feel free to share widely. Here is the letter to the editor we submitted to the FP I told you the day would work out ok! Cheers, Mark Wyatt’s Antics Nothing More Than Fear Mongering Russ Wyatt claims the Pedestrian & Cycling Strategies are flawed because of a lack of consultations, alleging that advocacy groups like Bike Winnipeg have undue influence at city hall (we wish!). Like the rest of the public, we first saw the completed strategies (and proposed cycling network) on May 1^st . That’s not to say we and the rest of the city didn’t have plenty of time to review and comment on the strategies. 18 months of public consultations on the strategies culminated in three open houses in April 2014. The consultation process engaged over 3,000 people. Bike Winnipeg and hundreds of other Winnipeggers took advantage of that time to comment on the draft network and recommendations. We were pleased to see those contributions reflected in the documents released May 1^st . Wyatt’s so-called evidence that Bike Winnipeg had prior access to the strategies is an email we sent him on January 23, 2015 asking for a meeting to discuss opportunities to improve cycling options in Transcona and throughout the City of Winnipeg. You can read the full text of that email at bikewinnipeg.ca. Councillor Wyatt failed to respond to our invitation. Mark Cohoe Executive Director Bike Winnipeg

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AT Webinar: Law enforcement strategies to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety, Wed, May 20, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 14 May '15

14 May '15

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the APBP webinar: *Law Enforcement Strategies to Improve Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety**. * The webinar viewing takes place in the EcoCentre boardroom (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth ** * * * ** Law Enforcement Strategies to Improve Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety *Wednesday, May 20th, 2-3pm, EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Boardroom* Effective law enforcement is a key factor in ensuring that pedestrians and cyclists have safe, equitable access to the public right-of-way. Attend this webinar to learn about law enforcement programs that raise awareness of traffic safety, shape behavior, and improve safety for vulnerable users. This session focuses on three approaches to law enforcement: 1. Seattle’s data-driven SeaStat program, a collaboration between Seattle’s DOT and Police Department that identifies hot spots and dangerous behavior through collision record analysis and speed and traffic volume data. 2. Seattle’s School Zone Safety Photo Enforcement Program, which measures success by the reduction in speeds and violations. Revenue from the speed cameras goes into safety improvements around schools. 3. Behavior change brought about by programs focused on education and positive interactions between law enforcement officers, motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. *Presenters*: - Jim Curtin, City of Seattle Department of Transportation - Brian Dougherty, City of Seattle Department of Transportation - Major Jim Russell, Deputy Chief of Police, Florida State University Police Department -- *Beth McKechnie* | Workplace Commuter Options <http://greenactioncentre.ca/>Green Action Centre <http://www.greenactioncentre.ca/> <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave | (204) 925-3772 | Find us here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/>. Donate at CanadaHelps.org <http://canadahelps.org/> <http://canadahelps.org/>

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