- AT-Network - University of Manitoba Mailing Lists

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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