- AT-Network - University of Manitoba Mailing Lists

Cycle track & bus stops: self-regulating sidewalk ballet
by Beth McKechnie 26 Jun '14

26 Jun '14

When you have a couple of minutes to watch a video, here's an excellent example of a protected bike lane (cycle track) with "floating bus stops" in San Francisco. Peds and cyclists seem to be able to negotiate the crossover space nicely. It's similar in concept to our cycle track on Pembina with bus stop crossovers but a step up in design. http://www.peopleforbikes.org/blog/entry/in-sf-a-bike-lane-between-transit-…

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Fwd: PBIC News: Free Webinar on Creating Livable Communities
by Beth McKechnie 25 Jun '14

25 Jun '14

Hello everyone, Here are a couple of free webinars that you might be interested in listening in. I'm away on July 3rd so am unable to host a group viewing for that one. However I have registered for the July 17th webinar if anyone wishes to join me at the EcoCentre boardroom to take in that one. cheers, Beth * * * * * <http://cts.vresp.com/fbl?53e1737151/a153a5784b/http%3A%2F%2Fhosted-p0.vresp…> <http://cts.vresp.com/ts?53e1737151/a153a5784b/http%3A%2F%2Fapi.addthis.com%…> <http://cts.vresp.com/ls?53e1737151/a153a5784b/http%3A%2F%2Fapi.addthis.com%…> [image: PBIC News Brief -- News from the Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center] June 24, 2014 Free webinars on Creating Great Communities through Public Involvement *CHAPEL HILL, NC* — The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center (PBIC) is pleased to announce two new free webinars in its Livable Communities Webinar Series: *Creating Great Communities through Public Involvement: Organizational Models for Public Involvement Thursday, July 3, 2014 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time* *To register: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/918249618 <http://cts.vresp.com/c/?UNCHighwaySafetyRese/53e1737151/a153a5784b/e26449a0…>* *Creating Great Communities through Public Involvement: How to Create and Run Effective Advisory and Advocacy Groups Thursday, July 17, 2014 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time* *To register:* *https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/301333722 <http://cts.vresp.com/c/?UNCHighwaySafetyRese/53e1737151/a153a5784b/9f40c5f1…>* (You must register for each webinar separately.) Ongoing, sustainable and effective public involvement is one of the cornerstones of creating a great community. This is a two-part webinar series exploring how to create more livable communities through public involvement. The first webinar, Organizational Models for Public Involvement, will explain why public involvement is necessary, identify the types of public involvement, and review organizational models and opportunities for public involvement. Attendees will learn specific institutional changes they can make to better involve the public in all projects and programs, thereby creating better communities for walking and bicycling. The second webinar, How to Create and Run Effective Advisory and Advocacy Groups, will explain why and how to create and run effective advisory and advocacy groups. Attendees will learn detailed techniques for recruiting members, maintaining active participation, effecting change, and creating positive working relationships between the public and governmental agencies. Advocates and local governmental officials will find this webinar beneficial. Both webinars are presented by Peter Lagerwey, Seattle Regional Office Director, Toole Design Group. PBIC offers free, public webinars approximately every month. To register for upcoming webinars and to access archived presentations, please visit www.pedbikeinfo.org/webinars <http://cts.vresp.com/c/?UNCHighwaySafetyRese/53e1737151/a153a5784b/149c7dc2…> . ------------------------------ Since its inception in 1999, PBIC's mission has been to improve the quality of life in communities through the increase of safe walking and bicycling as a viable means of transportation and physical activity. The Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center is maintained by the University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center with funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration. ------------------------------ *Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center* 730 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Campus Box 3430 Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3430 Phone: 1.888.823.3977 Fax: 919.962.8710 www.pedbikeinfo.org <http://cts.vresp.com/c/?UNCHighwaySafetyRese/53e1737151/a153a5784b/f9dd4bac…> ------------------------------ Click to view this email in a browser <http://hosted.verticalresponse.com/871151/53e1737151/1497262246/a153a5784b/> If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please reply to this message with "Unsubscribe" in the subject line or simply click on the following link: Unsubscribe <http://cts.vresp.com/u?53e1737151/a153a5784b/mlpftw> ------------------------------ Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center 730 MLK, Jr. Blvd. CB 3430 Chapel Hill, NC 27599 US Read <http://www.verticalresponse.com/content/pm_policy.html> the VerticalResponse marketing policy. [image: Non-Profits Email Free with VerticalResponse!] <http://www.verticalresponse.com/landing/ef/?np/53e1737151&utm_campaign=foot…>

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Great quote from TCAT's latest video
by Beth McKechnie 22 Jun '14

22 Jun '14

Great quote in the latest video (with the Mayor of Ajax) from the series by the Toronto Centre for Active Transportation: "The bike beside you is the car that *isn't* in front of you..." http://itsyourmove.tcat.ca/video/

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WFP: Advocate for active transit to pursue council seat (Jun20'14)
by Beth McKechnie 20 Jun '14

20 Jun '14

[Kudos to Janice for having the courage to throw her hat in the ring even if it's for active "transit" rather than transportation. -Beth] Advocate for active transit to pursue council seat By: Bartley Kives http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/Advocate-for-active-transit-to-pursu… Active-transportation activist Janice Lukes plans to run for city council in the soon-to-be-vacant St. Norbert ward. Lukes, the former director of the Winnipeg Trails Association and a part-time executive assistant to outgoing Coun. Justin Swandel, said she will mount a campaign to succeed her employer in July, when candidates for council seats are permitted to register their campaigns. Lukes is a well-known figure at city hall, due to years of lobbying in favour of funding to expand the city’s network of bike-and-pedestrian trails. The late Charleswood-Tuxedo councillor Bill Clement once dubbed her "Queen of the Trails" during a committee-meeting fight. She said she went to work for Swandel after years of badgering him about projects in St. Norbert. Lukes said she has never been a member of a Manitoba political party, but was approached by three to run in the most recent provincial election. Restaurateur Sachit Mehra has also declared his intention to run in St. Norbert. Swandel has served St. Norbert since 2005, when he won a byelection to replace his former boss, John Angus. Swandel announced last month he would not run again.

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CycleON: Ontario's Cycling Strategy involves 12 provincial ministries
by Beth McKechnie 19 Jun '14

19 Jun '14

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> Date: Thu, 19 Jun 2014 10:42:13 -0500 *#CycleON: Ontario’s Cycling Strategy* [image: Martin Goodman Trail Bridge. A man cycles across a trail bridge. Photo Credit: City of Toronto] Ontario’s Cycling Strategy looks ahead 20 years and outlines what needs to be done to *promote cycling across the province as a viable mode of transportation*. http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/cycling/ -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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Walkable neighbourhoods reduce obesity, diabetes
by Beth McKechnie 19 Jun '14

19 Jun '14

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> Date: Wed, 18 Jun 2014 11:20:41 -0500 Do 'walkable' neighborhoods reduce obesity, diabetes? Yes, research suggests Date: June 17, 2014 Source: American Diabetes Association Summary: People who live in neighborhoods that are conducive to walking experienced a substantially lower rate of obesity, overweight and diabetes than those who lived in more auto-dependent neighborhoods, according to a pair of studies. Specifically, the studies found that people living in neighborhoods with greater walkability saw on average a 13 percent lower development of diabetes incidence over 10 years than those that were less walkable. *Story Source:* The above story is based on materials <http://www.diabetes.org/newsroom/press-releases/2014/do-walkable-neighborho…> provided by *American Diabetes Association* <http://www.diabetes.org/?loc=logo>. *Note: Materials may be edited for content and length.* -- http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/06/140617130824.htm Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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[National Post - Andrew Coyne]: Vanouver's Road Pricing Proposal a Revolutionary Fix for Gridlock
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 17 Jun '14

17 Jun '14

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/06/16/andrew-coyne-vancouvers-road… -- *Jackie Avent* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Avenue* | *(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/>

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WFP: Unprotected lanes dissed - Bike paths on Pembina should be separate, city advised (Jun17'14)
by Beth McKechnie 17 Jun '14

17 Jun '14

If anyone knows what was done and on which streets to create "new residential bike routes" in Fort Garry, could you please email me? (see #3 below in sidebar) I am drawing a complete and utter blank on anything being done other than the convoluted route, which has been around for years, being included on the bike map. thanks, Beth * * * * * Unprotected lanes dissed Bike paths on Pembina should be separate, city advised By: Bartley Kives Consultants hired to determine the best way for cyclists to travel between downtown and the University of Manitoba warned the city not to build unprotected bike lanes along Pembina Highway. In a 2009 study commissioned by the city to help determine what new bike infrastructure to build, consulting firms Stantec Inc. and Marr Consulting concluded traffic volumes and speeds on Pembina Highway were too high to warrant anything other than bike lanes that would separate cyclists from motor vehicles. THE PEMBINA PROBLEM Consultants hired by the city to consider new cycling routes made the following recommendations about Pembina Highway: 1. Do not build on or along Pembina *What the consultants suggested:*The speed and volume of motor-vehicle traffic along Pembina Highway is so large, bikes would need to be completely separated -- and the cost would be too high. *What the city did: *Took this advice, at first. Then changed course and built bike lanes alongside Pembina from Chevrier Boulevard to Plaza Drive. 2. Divert cyclists north of Jubilee into Crescentwood & Rockwood *What was suggested:* Create new bike routes along Nassau Street and Harrow Street to allow cyclists to avoid Pembina. *What the city did:* Built these bikeways in 2010. 3. Divert cyclists south of Jubilee onto Point Road and Crescent Park *What was suggested:* Create a new bike route through residential areas east of Pembina in Fort Garry -- supplemented by a new bikeway running alongside the second phase of the Southwest Transitway. *What the city did: *New residential bike routes were created, but the second phase of the transitway was delayed -- and is now slated to run farther west of Pembina. 4. Build a new riverside connector path *What was recommended: *A new riverside path from Riviera Crescent to Plaza Drive was needed to complete the alternative to Pembina. *What the city did:* Nothing. The crucial gap remains in place. 5. Build a bike tunnel at the Jubilee Overpass *What was suggested: *Build a tunnel to bypass this choke point, ideally as part of the Southwest Transitway extension. *What the city did:* Something such as this is still in the works. 6. Promote the city's cycling network *What was suggested: *Promote cycling routes along the side streets to get bikes off Pembina. *What the city did: *Published a cycling map and created a website. Given that fully separated lanes would have cost up to $22 million at that time -- and still would have exposed cyclists to danger at intersections -- the consultants advised the city to build new southwest Winnipeg bike routes away from Pembina Highway. The city heeded this advice for two to three years, when new bike routes were developed in residential neighbourhoods parallel to the busy thoroughfare. But in 2012, council approved the construction of unprotected bike lanes along a one-kilometre stretch of Pembina between Chevrier Boulevard and Plaza Drive. The consultants warned encouraging people to use Pembina Highway as a cycling route would be counterproductive and undesirable. "Due to the high volumes and speeds of traffic on Pembina Highway, (alternative) routes would be more effective at encouraging (less-experienced) cyclists," the project team wrote in a report that circulated among city staff in 2009 and was later obtained by the Free Press. "To create safe cycling facilities on Pembina Highway, full separation from motor-vehicle traffic is a necessity and separation between pedestrians and cyclists would also be preferred." After reviewing six potential options for fully separated Pembina bike lanes -- including cycle tracks on each side of the street and a path down the centre median -- the consultants concluded it would be far more cost-effective to create cycling routes on side streets and wait for the construction of a bike corridor along the second phase of the Southwest Transitway to provide a more direct alternative for commuter cyclists. "The project team decided not to recommend treatments on Pembina due to the extremely high costs of construction. There are too many other needs in the city's active-transportation network," the consultants wrote. Instead of building along Pembina Highway, the consultants recommended the construction of new bikeways through the Crescentwood, Earl Grey and Rockwood neighbourhoods north of Jubilee Avenue and through the Point Road and Crescent Park neighbourhoods south of Jubilee Avenue. To make this work, the consultants said the city would need to build a tunnel to allow cyclists to bypass the Jubilee Underpass and a new riverside path that would connect Riviera Crescent to Plaza Drive. The city built the new residential neighbourhood bike routes, but has put off plans to bypass the Jubilee Underpass until its reconstruction, now planned for 2015 to 2019. The Riviera-to-Plaza connector has not been built. The city also delayed plans to complete the Southwest Transitway, which is now expected to be finished no earlier than 2020 -- on a route that extends as far as 1.6 kilometres to the west of Pembina Highway. "I think the whole thing has been totally messed up by the delay in rapid transit," said Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry Coun. Jenny Gerbasi. "It makes sense to have a leisurely route through residential neighbourhoods, but it also makes sense to have a more direct route. Now we have to wait until 2020 for that." Gerbasi said she sees the unprotected bike lanes built along Pembina Highway two years ago as a stopgap measure. The Pembina Highway route has been criticized since the death last week of a Bombers fan who was cycling to Investors Group Field. He collided with a vehicle near Bishop Grandin Boulevard, while the recommended bike route suggests cyclists exit Pembina before that, at Plaza Drive. bartley.kives(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 17, 2014 A3

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FW: June 26th, Blue Bombers Home Opener
by Janice Lukes 17 Jun '14

17 Jun '14

See below – it’s a great volunteer experience. From: Amanda San Filippo [mailto:bvwcoordinator@bicyclevaletwinnipeg.ca] Sent: Monday, June 16, 2014 10:53 PM To: Volunteers; Board(a)bicyclevaletwinnipeg.ca Subject: June 26th, Blue Bombers Home Opener ** IF YOU NO LONGER WISH TO RECEIVE THESE EMAILS, PLEASE RESPOND WITH THE HEADLINE "UNSUBSCRIBE" ** Hello all, Last email for the day! The Blue Bombers Home Opener should be busy! We will be setting up for a full 800 bike capacity, with 4 separate locations all between gates 3 and 4. The racks will be provided for us, so we will only be responsible for setting up the signage and tables. I anticipate this to be busy and want to be over prepared. Please feel free to have friends volunteer as well, but please have them fill out the doodle and email me with their email address/phone number. As always, if you sign up and can no longer make your shift, please email me, or call as soon as possible. If you anticipate being late for a shift, please add the details and estimated arrival time in the comments section of the Doodle. Additional details are found on the doodle and I hope to see many of you there! You can sign up here: http://doodle.com/wrwhsfzps7ckvy36 Amanda -- Coordinator Bicycle Valet Winnipeg http://bicyclevaletwinnipeg.ca/ *Join Us on Facebook <http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bicycle-Valet-Winnipeg/118463088183043> and Twitter <https://twitter.com/#%21/bicyclevaletwpg>

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WFP editorial: Safer cycling possible (Jun16'14)
by Beth McKechnie 16 Jun '14

16 Jun '14

Safer cycling possible http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/editorials/safer-cycling-possible-… The death of an elderly cyclist on his way to a football game last week has renewed the discussion about what needs to be done to make it safer for two-wheelers to travel safely within a city dominated by motor vehicles and unfriendly roads. As with most cities in North America, Winnipeg has made great strides in the last decade in recognizing the benefits of encouraging people to leave their cars at home and get on a bicycle or walk. Thousands of Winnipeggers, in fact, have joined the worldwide boom in bicycle traffic. According to a survey by the lobby group Bike Winnipeg, 10 per cent of respondents said the bicycle is their main form of transportation, while 46 per cent said they would like to cycle more often. Some 36 per cent said they are interested in bicycling more but are concerned about cycling on busy roads next to traffic. The city has built or dedicated hundreds of kilometres of bike lanes, paths and corridors, but of course it's not enough to meet the need or demand. There are still too many high-risk streets, intersections and underpasses that are not bike-friendly. Many motorists still act as if they own the road, while some cyclists ignore the rules of the road. It will be another 20 or 30 years before the city begins to achieve the level of service demanded by cyclists. That's the bottom line, but it doesn't mean nothing else can be done immediately to improve safety for everyone. The province, for example, said last year it was considering an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act that would require motorists to provide more room to cyclists, while also allowing them to ride further from the curb. The law currently says motorists must pass "at a safe distance," which is difficult to enforce because it is subject to interpretation. Some provinces require motorists to move into the other lane on narrow roads or if it is the only way to pass safely. Police also need to be more aggressive in enforcing the existing law, even if it is vague. There are too many examples of cars and trucks whizzing by cyclists at distances that are too close for comfort. Obviously, a legislative amendment that forced motorists to give at least one metre in separation would be easier to enforce. In terms of bike routes, the city and Bike Winnipeg have published maps that are also available online, but many cyclists are still not familiar with them. There is a designated bike path close to where the man was killed last week, for example, that allows cyclists to avoid the horrendously dangerous intersection of Pembina Highway and Bishop Grandin. The city can do a better job of posting signs. Currently, the bike route on Pembina disappears without a trace and without warning near the scene of the accident. The real issue, however, isn't about how to get to football games without risking life and limb, but about creating an alternative-transportation culture. People who have cycled in some European cities, for example, report the same problems with inadequate cycling infrastructure, but say motorists and cyclists display a civility that is not as evident here. They seem to be looking out for one another. The ongoing debate over the years in Winnipeg seems to have increased awareness and caution, but there is still a deficiency in respectful behaviour. Manitoba Public Insurance and other government agencies could help change that through public-awareness campaigns. Winnipeg is on its way to becoming a cycling city, winter and summer, but it will require a sustained commitment to the principle that alternative transportation is the new mantra. Editorials are the consensus view of the Winnipeg Free Press’ editorial board, comprising Catherine Mitchell, David O’Brien and Paul Samyn. Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 16, 2014 A8

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WFP: Spinning their wheels on safety - Cyclists on back burner with stadium: advocate (Jun14'14)
by Beth McKechnie 16 Jun '14

16 Jun '14

Spinning their wheels on safetyCyclists on back burner with stadium: advocate <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Geoff Kirbyson http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/spinning-their-wheels-on-safety-2631… A member of the event-day advisory committee at Investors Group Field said the death of a Winnipeg Blue Bombers fan on Tuesday was tragic but not surprising. Janice Lukes, the active-transportation representative on EDAC and a longtime cycling advocate, said with so many other issues to deal with at the stadium over the past 12 months -- parking, buses and construction problems -- cyclists have been on the back burner. Cyclist hurt in collision A man was transported to hospital in unstable condition Friday after a car-bike collision in East Kildonan. Police couldn't say exactly what happened, but confirmed they responded to a call around 1:15 p.m, where they located the man. Munroe Avenue between Gateway and Grey was closed after the incident, but has since reopened. Friday afternoon, police officers were interviewing a female driver of a sedan parked just in front of the mangled bike. The police let the woman leave the scene shortly after. The incident is the second in a week where a cyclist has been involved in a vehicle collision. On Monday night, 69-year-old Dick Stevenson died after he was struck by a vehicle while travelling on Pembina Highway on the way to a football game at Investors Group Field. "In the big picture, active transportation is never front and centre. We need leadership on this file," she said. The risks for cyclists were brought up at every EDAC meeting over the past year, she said, and while other members -- including representatives of the city, the University of Manitoba, the Bombers, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic department, Winnipeg Transit and residents who live near the football stadium -- agreed the risks were a problem, nobody seemed to know who had the ultimate responsibility for fixing them, she said. To prove stakeholders could act when they wanted to, Lukes cited the "million dollars worth of buses" that were activated to correct the many problems fans had getting to the Fort Garry stadium after the first game last year. The only thing that caught Lukes slightly off guard was that Dick Stevenson's cycling accident prior to Monday's exhibition game happened during daylight hours. Most of the committee's concerns surrounded what would happen after the final whistle had blown and cyclists, many of them inexperienced, headed home. "Some fans (who are driving) have had a few drinks. Many of these cyclists don't know to wear reflective colours or put lights on their bikes," she said. Bombers CEO Wade Miller said nothing is more important to the football club than fan safety. He left no doubt, however, about who should be driving the bus. "Which is why we have an official request into the City of Winnipeg to immediately address outstanding pedestrian and cycling concerns. We look forward to their leadership on this issue," he said. A spokeswoman for the city said active transportation is a top priority. To prove her point, she pointed to the $85 million the city has spent on it since 2008. A spokesman for the province said the Selinger government is also committed to providing opportunities for safe and convenient cycling in Winnipeg and across the province. Since 2000, he said, it has invested more than $40 million in active-transportation infrastructure and programs including developing the Trans-Canada Trail in communities throughout the province, developing trails along the floodway, supporting rapid transit as well as providing funding for more than 65 active-transportation projects in Winnipeg and 34 more in other communities. Other major projects to come in the government's five-year plan include an active-transportation overpass at the Perimeter Highway and Highway 59 and the redevelopment of the Pembina-Jubilee Underpass, which will include additional vehicle and bike lanes. Lukes said the city has been delinquent in reinstalling "bollards," which are 1.2-metre-high plastic posts with reflectors that delineate the bike lane between Chevrier Boulevard and Plaza Drive. "The city put them up last year, but they haven't put them up this year. We need leadership on the city's active-transportation file," she said. geoff.kirbyson(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 14, 2014 A4

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Fwd: Prevent Further Cycling Deaths
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 13 Jun '14

13 Jun '14

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Laura Donatelli <omojean98(a)hotmail.com> Date: Fri, Jun 13, 2014 at 3:21 PM Subject: Prevent Further Cycling Deaths To: Laura Donatelli <omojean98(a)hotmail.com> Hi Friends, As a part of Bike Winnipeg week, this coming Monday evening (June 16th), cyclists across Winnipeg are encouraged to come together at MTYP (The Forks) to identify the most critical areas for cycling improvement needed in Winnipeg. Let's try to prevent further cycling deaths in our city. Please spread the word amongst other cyclists and those who care about them. Thanks, Laura Donatelli -- *Jackie Avent* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Avenue* | *(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/>

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AT Webinar: Calming Arterial Streets for Safer Walking and Cycling, Wed, Jun 18, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jun '14

13 Jun '14

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the following APBP webinar at the EcoCentre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/> (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave). This will be followed by group discussion of local applications. A particularly timely topic for Winnipeg plus it's during Bike Week! RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then. cheers, Beth (204) 925-3772 ** * * * ** *Calming Arterial Streets for Safer Walking and Cycling* <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> *Wednesday, June 18th, 2014 | 2:00-3:00 pm Central* High-volume, high-speed arterials present special challenges for taming traffic. Conventional transportation thinking about arterials prioritizes moving large numbers of vehicles at high speed over long distances, even if those roadways run through the heart of a city. This thinking ignores the historical purpose of cities—to minimize distance and provide productive venues for economic and social exchange. Join this webinar to learn how cities are beginning to rethink their priorities for arterial streets, and what this means for planning for safer roads that also contribute to a city’s economic vitality. Ian Lockwood, Livable Transportation Engineer at Toole Design Group and a 2011 Harvard School of Design Loeb Fellow, challenges attendees to reconsider the connections between the economic role of cities, place-making, mobility and great city streets. His presentation describes the evolution of arterial streets, discusses the concept of mobility as improving population movement for economic and social exchange, and suggests an alternative, context-sensitive framework for measuring arterial performance. Specific projects highlight cities that are rethinking their arterials and the role of traffic calming measures used as strategies to improve mobility. *Presenter*: Ian Lockwood, Livable Transportation Engineer, Toole Design Group

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WFP: Bicycle safety on the road is a two-way street (Jun13'14)
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jun '14

13 Jun '14

Bicycle safety on the road is a two-way street http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/bicycle-safety-on-the-road-is-a-two-… Bicycles and vehicles share the road, so Manitoba Public Insurance wants to remind everyone a little care and concern from both goes a long way. MPI spokeswoman MaryAnn Kempe said cyclists can be proactive by understanding the dangers of vehicle blind spots and how they can avoid a collision. "Turning and side-swipe collisions are two of the most common collisions involving cyclists, according to claims data," Kempe, the vice-president of business development and communications and chief product officer for MPI, said in a press release. "Maintaining visibility is vital to preventing these types of collisions -- especially when it comes to large vehicles. If cyclists and motorists can see each other, then these types of collisions could be avoided. From a cyclist's perspective, if you cannot see the driver from where you are on the road, then you also need to assume that they cannot see you." In the statement, Sgt. Rob Riffel of the Winnipeg Police Service encouraged cyclists to ride defensively and recognize potentially dangerous situations. "Motorists and cyclists are both entitled to be on the roadways. There should be a mutual respect for both groups," Riffel stated. Claims data released by MPI show three Manitobans are killed and 250 others are injured each year in bicycle collisions. There was also an average of 269 bicycle-motor vehicle collisions reported from 2007-2011, with the majority (98.4 per cent) occurring in urban centres. Dave Elmore, CAN-Bike master instructor and former director of safety and education for Bike Winnipeg, said a defensive strategy for cyclists when approaching an intersection is to always shoulder check and signal before moving into the centre of the lane. Under no circumstance should a bike rider pass motor vehicles on the right or position themselves to the right of vehicles at an intersection, Elmore said. Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 13, 2014 A5

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WFP: Cycling to Bombers field takes a Hail Mary or two (Jun13'14)
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jun '14

13 Jun '14

Cycling to Bombers field takes a Hail Mary or two By: Geoff Kirbyson See accompanying video at: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/cycling-to-bombers-field-takes-a-hai… Riding your bicycle down Pembina Highway to Investors Group Field is a bit of a Hail Mary. Traffic congestion in south Winnipeg before and after Winnipeg Blue Bombers games has been a bone of contention even before the new stadium opened last year. The issue reached a critical stage after 69-year-old Dick Stevenson was hit by a vehicle while riding his bike to Monday's exhibition game against the Toronto Argonauts and died the next morning. But if the city and the football club want fans to seriously consider two-wheeled transportation to the University of Manitoba campus, some changes must be made as soon as possible so cyclists can make the commute safely, particularly after games when it's dark. To get an idea of what the trip is like, I strapped a Go-Pro camera to my bike helmet and set off down Pembina from McGillivray Boulevard early Thursday afternoon. I'm an experienced cyclist, but I purposely avoid roadways such as this. The traffic is constant, even when it's not rush hour, and there's not a lot of room out there. For the first kilometre or two, I'm sharing the curb lane with SUVs, pickup trucks and the odd compact car. I relax a little when I hit Chevrier Boulevard and the road opens up to a dedicated bike lane. There are a few mini-detours where the path takes me up on to the sidewalk -- usually around bus stops -- for a few metres at a time, and at this point, I think the ride isn't too bad. But then I hit Plaza Drive, just north of Bishop Grandin, and everything stopped. The bike lane ends abruptly, and there's no signage or arrows directing me where to go. I think of Mr. Stevenson as I hug the curb once again with vehicles whizzing past me because this is where he was struck. But the route gets even more treacherous as I reach the westbound Bishop Grandin turnoff. Even if I wanted to keep going straight, I'd have to battle for position with vehicles making the turn. Instead, I opt for the sidewalk crossing and make my way across the bridge via the pedestrian overpass. There was only one woman walking ahead of me, but I can imagine it would jammed before Bomber games. Making my way on to University Crescent, there is, again, no dedicated bike lane, but there's a decent shoulder to ride on, although there's still a fair amount of sand and grime I would have expected to have been picked up by street cleaners in the spring. Finally, I arrive at my destination. Would it be worth it to ride to a football game? Probably. I'd make sure to leave super early to avoid the worst of the crush. I'd probably say a Hail Mary once or twice, too. geoff.kirbyson(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 13, 2014 A5

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WFP: Area's hazard won't change soon - Safer path at site of tragedy years away (Jun13'14)
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jun '14

13 Jun '14

Area's hazard won't change soonSafer path at site of tragedy years away <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Mary Agnes Welch http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/areas-hazard-wont-change-soon-262987… It's one of the most intimidating stretches for cyclists, and it could be a decade or more before any significant bike infrastructure is built there. Pembina Highway and Bishop Grandin, where a Winnipeg Blue Bomber fan was killed while cycling to Monday night's exhibition game, is about to be bracketed by a buffered bike path local cyclists love. The Pembina bike lane north of Bishop Grandin was built last summer, and crews are working now on a short stretch south of the eight-lane overpass. But the overpass itself is widely seen as among the worst spots for cyclists, thanks largely to many merge lanes, several driveways and the sheer speed and volume of cars. But a truly separated bike path next to the proposed bus rapid transit line along the nearby Letellier rail line is still at least six years away from completion, assuming federal infrastructure cash can be secured for the southwest rapid transit corridor that city council debates endlessly. And the construction of a buffered bike lane along the full length of Pembina Highway is part of the city's draft cycling master plan. But that's a 20-year project, and city transportation staff could offer no word Thursday when capital funding might be available or where Pembina Highway might fall on the spending priority list. The active transportation master plan goes to council for approval later this year. To avoid the Bishop Grandin-Pembina intersection and get to the University of Manitoba, the city recommends a bike detour east along Plaza Drive and following the Red River through the back campus. But that route is not well-known to cyclists. The intersection is under the cycling spotlight, but Bike Winnipeg's Mark Cohoe says there are many others in the city that are no-go areas for many bikers. Those include Main Street at the Higgins underpass, Confusion Corner and the Osborne Street underpass, and Main Street at Broadway, where long left-turn lanes see cars stacked up and often in conflict with pedestrians and cyclists. Winnipeg bike enthusiasts have many tales of crashes and close calls along Pembina, but collision experts with the Winnipeg police have investigated at least two serious ones in recent years. In June of 2011, a 52-year-old woman died when her bike was struck by a 23-year-old driving a Lexus on Pembina near Dalhousie Drive. A couple of weeks later, a 24-year-old man cycling on Pembina near Chancellor Matheson Drive was also badly hurt when he was struck by a vehicle. [Note: See graph of cyclist fatalities 2004-2013 at http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/areas-hazard-wont-change-soon-262987… ] Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 13, 2014 A4

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WFP: Bike woes clear long before death - Shortcomings on Pembina serious due to high university traffic (Jun13'14)
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jun '14

13 Jun '14

Bike woes clear long before deathShortcomings on Pembina serious due to high university traffic <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Bartley Kives http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/bike-woes-clear-long-be… In politics, broadcasting or any other realm of public life, using a tragedy to make a point is a dangerous game. On Monday evening, a Blue Bomber fan was riding his bike to Investors Group Field to watch a CFL pre-season game when he was involved in a motor-vehicle collision. Sixty-nine-year-old Dick Stevenson was taken to hospital in unstable condition and later died of his injuries. The police are investigating the collision. Unless you witnessed the event -- or happen to be a traffic-unit investigator -- it'd be irresponsible to assign responsibility to any party. If you're a pundit or a politician, you don't blame the victim, you don't blame the motorist and you certainly don't blame the Winnipeg Football Club or the City of Winnipeg until you know darn well what happened. This is why it was cringe-inducing to observe a public exchange between the city and the Bombers that came uncomfortably close to a blame-storming session. Early Thursday, at the start of the morning news cycle, the football club released a statement from Bomber president and CEO Wade Miller, urging the city to "immediately review and assess all active-transportation routes and infrastructure leading to Investors Group Field." The city responded in the afternoon by making acting chief operating officer Michael Jack and transportation manager Luis Escobar available to reporters. They said they know there's a demand for a protected bike route along Pembina Highway but there are no imminent construction plans. Jack and Escobar also noted they didn't hear a peep from the Bombers about cyclist safety when the two parties met last week. Miller responded he has always raised cyclist safety in meetings with the city. To be fair to both parties, neither actually assigned blame for the fatality. The city officials made the standard refusal to comment while a police investigation is underway. Miller, meanwhile, said the motivation for his Thursday-morning press release was a Wednesday-evening query from Free Press reporter Mary Agnes Welch. "When a fan dies from something like this, I think it's important everyone takes a step back and reviews what's going on," Miller said in an interview. "It's a bigger discussion about the active-transportation plan and moving it forward. I cycle in the city and it's tough." A decade ago, Winnipeg had a truly pathetic network of bike-and-pedestrian paths. But the situation improved, thanks to a policy that ensures all significant road-construction projects include an active-transportation component -- and an influx of cash into commuter-cycling routes, including an unprecedented $21 million allotted in 2010 alone. Of course, not all of Winnipeg's new cycling infrastructure is ideal. Many cyclists shy away from using "sharrows," the extra-wide lanes intended to be used by both bikes and motor vehicles, and aren't big fans of painted-on "dedicated lanes," either. Cyclists prefer routes that are physically separated from motor-vehicle traffic. But that sort of infrastructure is difficult to create in existing neighbourhoods, where a shortage of space requires either the expensive expropriation of private land or the politically unpopular appropriation of a motor-vehicle lane. The city is slowly but surely improving its commuter-cycling infrastructure. As both the Bombers and the city pointed out Thursday, there are ways to travel to Investors Group Field that do not involve traversing the intersection of Pembina Highway and Bishop Grandin Boulevard. But even if Investors Group Field didn't exist, it's worth noting the city has so far failed to create a more direct cycling route from downtown to the University of Manitoba's Fort Garry campus, the second-busiest commuter destination in Winnipeg. The notion such a route has been delayed merely by the failure to complete the Southwest Transitway is a red herring, as that bus corridor is now supposed to jog 1.6 kilometres to the west Pembina Highway at its furthest point. The somewhat-separated bike lanes created along Pembina north of Plaza Drive form the start of a more direct route. But the absence of a complete and more or less protected route to the U of M is annoying for university students and staff, who have to ride out of their way to get there. The city should continue to develop this route, using whatever meagre resources it has. Unlike the football stadium, the university is busy nearly every day. In other words, the need for a Pembina bike route was evident well before this week's fatality, which should not be used by anyone for any purpose other than to express condolences. bartley.kives(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 13, 2014 A4

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WFP; Blue want safe streets for fans - City won't act until probe into fatal accident is complete (Jun13'14)
by Beth McKechnie 13 Jun '14

13 Jun '14

Blue want safe streets for fansCity won't act until probe into fatal accident is complete <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Aldo Santin http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/blue-want-safe-streets-for-fans-2629… A protected bike route along Pembina Highway that might have saved the life of cyclist Dick Stevenson was under consideration by the city's active-transportation planners. Despite the outcry over Stevenson's death while en route to Monday's Winnipeg Blue Bombers game, city hall is holding off on any talk of safety improvements until the police finish the investigation into his fatal accident. MAYORAL CANDIDATES FAVOUR SAFETY REVIEW Several mayoral candidates said city hall should review the safety of bike routes following the death of Dick Stevenson earlier this week. Paula Havixbeck, city councillor for Charleswood-Tuxedo, said city hall is responsible for ensuring bike routes are properly signed and safe, adding she doesn't know whether the bike route had anything to do with Stevenson's death. "We should be working collaboratively with groups like the Bombers to identify and correct any and all particularly unsafe conditions and to continually work towards improving safety and positive citizen experiences," Havixbeck said. Judy Wasylycia-Leis said she supports Miller's request to review the city's policy. "I was at that game -- it was a glorious night and learned after the fact that an avid Blue Bomber fan was killed in a cycling accident on the way to that game," Wasylycia-Leis said. "I think (Bombers president Wade Miller's) request is an important one and should be acted upon immediately." Wasylycia-Leis said the city needs to know whether it's taken all needed measures to ensure cycling can be done safely anywhere in Winnipeg, adding everyone knows there are transportation problems with Investors Group Field. "We want to make that stadium work. We want to make sure people get there safely and we want this to be an attraction." Brian Bowman cautioned about rushing to judgment on the circumstances surrounding Stevenson's death, but added it is appropriate to question the city's policy as a result of the tragedy. "Ideally, I'd expect the city would be working with partners like the Bombers to review the safety of our transportation plans," Bowman said, adding he'd welcome public input into how improvements can be made to the cycling network. *-- Aldo Santin* RELATED ITEMS POLL Should the City of Winnipeg invest in more separated bike lanes? 1. Yes. 2. No. View Results <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/polls/Should-the-City-of-Winnipeg-invest-i…> "We will wait to see what the Winnipeg Police Service (investigation) finds and we'll go from there," said Luis Escobar, the city's manager of transportation. Escobar said the city recognizes cyclists want a protected route along Pembina Highway, adding it is under consideration, but there are no plans as to when that would occur. In the meantime, Escobar said, the city is encouraging cyclists and pedestrians to use the designated active- transportation routes to the stadium. "Everybody has to use the rules of the road," Escobar said. Escobar, who was joined at a news conference Thursday by Michael Jack, acting chief operating officer, said an active transportation policy for Investors Group Field was thoroughly researched before the stadium opened last year. Escobar and Jack were responding to a call from Blue Bombers president Wade Miller Thursday to review the city's active-transportation policy as it relates to the stadium in the light of Stevenson's death. Winnipeg police said Stevenson, 69, was involved in a vehicle collision on Pembina Highway near Bishop Grandin Boulevard around 5:30 p.m. He was taken to hospital in unstable condition and died from his injuries. "On multiple occasions, we have expressed concerns about active transportation," Miller said. "Unfortunately, limited progress has been made in addressing some of the concerns. As a result of this week's tragic death, I think it is the responsibility of all involved to make their voices heard to ensure fan safety is paramount." Miller said the team is also concerned about the lack of street lighting along Chancellor Matheson Drive and the safety threat that poses to pedestrians. "My concerns are about fan safety for those who choose to cycle or walk to the stadium," Miller said, adding he's looking forward to resolving the issues as soon as possible. The bike route to the new stadium was singled out as a success story last year. Thousands of fans -- adults and children -- rode their bikes safely to Bomber games last year without incident. Detailed active-transportation routes to the stadium are available on the stadium website (investorsgroupfield.ca), including a route to bypass the Bishop Grandin-Pembina intersection from both the west and the north. But that has renewed concerns from the cycling community about safety on one of the city's busiest thoroughfares. Jack said civic officials met with the Bombers last week and the team had not raised the issue of cyclist safety, but admitted the team now wants it discussed when the two sides meet again. Miller said his call for a review is not connected to the recent dispute with city hall over the transit issue, adding the team has had long-standing concerns about both cyclist and pedestrian safety. Escobar said the city is committed to active transportation, adding more than $85 million has been spent since 2008 in the establishment of 300 kilometres of active-transportation routes across the city. Escobar said any changes or upgrades to the bike route will be considered only after the conclusion of the police investigation and a report calling for such modifications. aldo.santin(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 13, 2014 A3

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WFP: Cyclist's death highlights danger on Pembina (Jun12'14)
by Beth McKechnie 12 Jun '14

12 Jun '14

Cyclist's death highlights danger on PembinaStruck by car en route to Blue Bombers game <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Mary Agnes Welch http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/cyclists-death-highlights-danger-on-… A cyclist has died after being hit by a car on his way to Monday's Winnipeg Blue Bombers exhibition game. An avid Bomber fan and longtime season ticket-holder, Dick Stevenson, 69, suffered head injuries when he was hit by a car on Pembina Highway near Bishop Grandin Boulevard at about 5:30 p.m. He was wearing a helmet, a family friend said. He died Tuesday morning. Stevenson was a member of a successful real estate and development family, which sold its firm, S. S. Stevenson & Company Limited, to the Chipmans in 1987. The company is now the Stevenson Group, the Chipman family's umbrella firm that includes Nova-Con construction, Longboat property development and Cushman & Wakefield commercial real estate brokers. It's not clear whether charges will be laid in the crash. Police said the investigation is ongoing. Last spring, during the initial traffic mayhem that surrounded the opening of the new stadium at the University of Manitoba, many opted to bike to games as the quickest and most reliable way to go. But that renewed long-standing worries about cycling safety on one of Winnipeg's busiest roads. Cycling advocates locally and internationally argue protected lanes are the safest for cyclists and motorists alike and do the most to encourage people to bike. The city's proposed bike network includes protected cycle tracks along Pembina, but so far only a short stretch exists -- a new protected track between Chevrier Boulevard and Plaza Drive that opened last summer. Another short stretch south of University Crescent is under construction. The stretch of Pembina where Stevenson was hit has no cycling infrastructure, and Bike Winnipeg's Mark Cohoe said it can be particularly hairy. It is where the on-off ramps from Bishop Grandin merge with Pembina and where cars are changing lanes at high speed. Winnipeg's cycling map includes a circle around the area, advising caution. Cohoe said the first concern should be for Stevenson's family and friends, but cycling deaths happen too often on Winnipeg streets. "Do we find this acceptable or do we need to start designing things to prevent these tragedies from happening?" asked Cohoe. Officials with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers declined to comment directly Wednesday evening, instead issuing a statement. "The thoughts and prayers of our entire organization are with Mr. Stevenson's family as they mourn this tremendous loss," said the statement. In a typical year, one or two cyclists are killed on Winnipeg streets. maryagnes.welch(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 12, 2014 A4

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Trails Manitoba - Border to Beaches Project RFP
by Beth McKechnie 11 Jun '14

11 Jun '14

Hello; Trails Manitoba is looking for a contractor to assist us with the Border to Beaches Project and would appreciate your help circulating the attached RFP. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you or your colleagues have any questions about the RFP or the Project. Thank you, Melissa Melissa Sitter Executive Director *Trails Manitoba/Sentiers Manitoba* 3-303 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3B 2B4 204-786-2688 www.trailsmanitoba.ca *"In every walk with nature one receives * *far more than he seeks."* - John Muir

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Fwd: Unique historic and cycling event coming up soon!
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 11 Jun '14

11 Jun '14

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Laura Donatelli <omojean98(a)hotmail.com> Date: Wed, Jun 11, 2014 at 12:31 AM Subject: Unique historic and cycling event coming up soon! To: Laura Donatelli <omojean98(a)hotmail.com> [PLEASE feel free to share this invitation widely with other cycling or Winnipeg history enthusiasts.] Hello friends, As you may know, I am on the board of Bike Winnipeg, and wanted to share an exciting event coming up later this month. Note that this activity is appropriate for occasional/recreational cyclists and anyone interested in Winnipeg's fascinating early 20th century history. Cheers, Laura Donatelli *Strike Bike!* Saturday June 21st, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Mark the 95th anniversary of “Bloody Saturday” by joining Bike Winnipeg for StrikeBike!, a guided bicycle tour of sites linked to the Winnipeg General Strike of 1919. Strike! Musical Composer and General Strike Historian Danny Schur will be our guide on this casually-paced tour that winds its way from River Heights into the Downtown and the Exchange Districts. Relive the events of the General Strike as we stop at many of the sites where history unfolded during the spring of 1919; events that eventually became the platform for future labour reforms across Canada. StrikeBike! tours start in the parking lot of 529 Wellington and run for 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Choose between a morning tour starting at 10am or an afternoon tour starting at 2pm. The cost is only $20 and proceeds from the StrikeBike! rides go towards Bike Winnipeg in support of our ongoing advocacy and education efforts. Spaces are limited so don't wait to register. For more information and to buy tickets, go to: http://bikewinnipeg.ca/strikebike/ Facebook Links AM: https://www.facebook.com/events/695922260453741/ Facebook PM Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1420255394906226/ -- *Jackie Avent* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Avenue* | *(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/>

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Variation on regular "bike boxes" at intersections.
by Patman, David 09 Jun '14

09 Jun '14

Saw this variation on the typical "bike box" idea at a conference last week. Thought it was interesting - I hadn't seen this type of treatment before. Might be practical for small numbers of bicycles. One more tool in the toolkit, perhaps... http://www.york.ca/wps/portal/yorkhome/recreation/yr/cycling/permanentbikeb… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wz69ecmUsMc&feature=youtu.be 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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Fwd: FW: Provincial Recreation Policy Review Survey
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 09 Jun '14

09 Jun '14

See below: How does AT fit with Manitoba's Policy for Recreation Opportunities? Do you have something to say about this? You can fill out a brief (8 question) survey at the link below. Jackie ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Jaques, Jessica (HHLS) <Jessica.Jaques(a)gov.mb.ca> Date: 6 June 2014 14:35 Subject: FW: Provincial Recreation Policy Review Survey To: Cc: "Hayward, Kristine (WRHA)" <KHayward(a)wrha.mb.ca>, "Prowse, Sarah (WRHA)" <sprowse(a)wrha.mb.ca>, Joannie Halas <Joannie.Halas(a)umanitoba.ca>, Dave Courrier <dave.courrier(a)sportmanitoba.ca>, "Jackie Avent (ASRTS)" < jackie(a)greenactioncentre.ca> As you are aware , our partners at Recreation and Regional Services are undertaking a review of the Provincial Recreation Policy. They have held 13 consultations with various stakeholders throughout the province but would also like to reach out to others including the general public. Could you please share this information about a short survey with your various networks. Thanks and have a great weekend! Jessica =================================================================================================== The Department of Children and Youth Opportunities is undertaking a review and update of Manitoba’s Policy for Recreation Opportunities. This review will help the provincial government establish effective priorities that reflect the changing face of recreation across the province and identify opportunities for partnerships and shared collaborative efforts. A public survey is a key component of the review of Manitoba’s Policy for Recreation Opportunities. Your input will help us determine the Province’s role in supporting the unique recreation needs of Manitobans. Please take a few minutes to answer these 8 questions <http://web15.gov.mb.ca/inquisite/cgi-bin/qwebcorporate.dll?idx=NRPG8P>. For more information about the Provincial Recreation Policy Review please visit: http://www.gov.mb.ca/cyo/recreation/prpr.html -- *Jackie Avent* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Avenue* | *(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/>

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Bike Week 2014 is coming soon
by Dave Elmore 09 Jun '14

09 Jun '14

Please pass this along to all your friends, family, etc. BIKE WEEK JUNE 16-22 is just around the corner June 16-22, 2014 marks Winnipeg's first annual Bike Week: a week long celebration of people riding bicycles. It's for everyone! Whether you ride for fitness, transportation, sport or just for fun, if you enjoying riding a bike then Bike Week is for you. Events will be held in every corner of the city including workshops, group rides, races and leisure events that enourage all Winnipeggers to get on their bikes and ride. If you like to ride check out our event listing and pass on the word! http://www.bikeweekwinnipeg.com/about/events-schedule/ The week will also feature the 7th annual Bike to Work Day on Friday, June 20th. This year's Bike to Work Day boasts 58 pit stops located all over the city, a group ride from Assiniboine Park to The Forks and the Half Pints Bikes & BBQ Party at Oodena Celebration Circle from 4:30-7:00 p.m. including free Boon Burgers*, a concert on the bike-powered concert system and a grand prize draw for a new bike from Woodcock Cycleworks. Join us for a free pancake breakfast* and launch party on Monday, June 16th from 7:00-9:00 am at the MTS Centre (enter by riding down the loading zone off of Carlton (between Portage & Graham). We look forward to riding with you. PS: You can sign up for our newsletter to receive up to date info and discounts at: http://www.bikeweekwinnipeg.com/register/ *breakfast and the BBQ are offered to anyone who arrives by bike, while supplies last.

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WFP: City, Bombers both lose in lame, ego-fuelled spat & Down, Set... Pay Up (Jun6'14)
by Beth McKechnie 06 Jun '14

06 Jun '14

City, Bombers both lose in lame, ego-fuelled spat <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Bartley Kives http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/city-bombers-both-lose-in-lame-ego-f… During the nightmarish inaugural season at Investors Group Field, one of the few silver linings for the Winnipeg Football Club was the eventual success of the game-day transportation plan. A year ago this month, getting to and from the new stadium was an unmitigated disaster. Long lines of vehicles stalled on the way to IGF, there weren't enough buses for passengers, fans arrived well after kickoff and then got stuck on the U of M campus long after the final down. By July, the situation had improved, thanks to the collective brainstorming of the Bombers, Winnipeg Transit, the Winnipeg Police Service and a number of city officials and consultants. By the fall, the Bombers actually boasted more than 1,000 fans rode bikes to the games, an average of 10,000 took buses and a total of about a third of the crowd got to and from the 33,500-seat venue by means other than personal vehicles. In a city as car-reliant as Winnipeg, this was an achievement. Convincing people in the Manitoba capital to walk, ride or take buses is no easy task. When presented with a proposition -- you could get to and from games faster, more comfortably and less expensively if you left your car at home -- Winnipeggers proved to be entirely logical. Now, these fans have been rewarded for their co-operation with the announcement of new user fees only days before the start of the CFL pre-season. On Thursday, the Winnipeg Football Club announced bus rides to the stadium along regular transit routes would no longer be free, but $2.55 -- the same fare charged by Winnipeg Transit. Rides home along these routes would remain free. Park-and-ride fares will be $5 when the regular season starts later this month, assuming there is no CFL players' strike. This is an insult to fans who went along with everything the club asked them to do last year. The result will likely mean some won't take transit and will take cars instead. If this clogs up Pembina Highway, more fans will get fed up with going to Bomber games altogether. This potential backslide is the result of a communication breakdown between the Bombers and the City of Winnipeg, who share the blame for the ridiculous situation where fans are told on a Thursday about a new plan for a game on a Monday. How did we get there? Originally, the Bombers signed a moronic transportation deal. Somehow, the football club agreed to cover the entire cost of game-day transit instead of maintaining the 2012 situation, where the city ate a portion of the cost. Last year, the city charged the Bombers $1.1 million in total and then informed the club it would cost $1.25 million this year. This means the city plans to charge the Bombers $12.50 per round trip to the stadium, as opposed to the $5.10 it charges for a pair of regular transit rides. (Yes, regular transit rides are subsidized.) Bombers president and CEO Wade Miller tried to negotiate a better deal last fall, knowing his team has to start forking over millions worth of stadium-building-loan repayments this year. Miller asked for a deep discount and was instead offered a more modest one in April. Mayor Sam Katz then yanked that offer off the table in May, claiming the club is doing too well to deserve a deal Winnipeg Transit director Dave Wardrop considered fair. Katz then successfully spun a portion of the public on the idea the Bombers would have just been receiving another subsidy, when in fact the club is being charged more than double the going transit rate. Miller, meanwhile, has compounded the situation. After failing to manage a key relationship with one of the club's stakeholders, the Bombers president now appears to be playing chicken with the city over the transportation plan. Even if just as many fans continue to take transit to the stadium this season with user fees up front, collecting fares at crowded bus stops will slow down the entire process. This is why transit warned against the idea. The Selinger government, meanwhile, is dithering on the sidelines, afraid to either criticize Katz for reneging on a deal or provide more cash to the team. The province offered to split the additional cost with the city, something the province does with all transit costs. But the Katz administration won't give the Bombers another penny, even if the Selinger government picks up half the tab. Surely, someone in this city has the leadership skills to put these squabbling children in a room and settle the impasse. There was a game-day plan that worked last year. Screwing it up over egos would be pretty lame. bartley.kives(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 6, 2014 B1 * * * * * DOWN, SET... PAY UP Fans to pay half fare on regular routes, $5 to park and ride <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Adam Wazny http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/down-set-pay-up-262112371.html With the start of the season fast approaching, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers are moving forward with a pay-as-you-go transportation plan to get people to Investors Group Field this season. The CFL club announced Thursday those taking Winnipeg Transit to Investors Group Field events will have to pay the regular transit fare. The Bombers will cover the ride home, meaning a round trip will cost fans $2.55 to watch their local football team live. *Touchdown or incompletion?* RIDE ON: Highlights of the revised Winnipeg Blue Bombers transportation plan for 2014: *Winnipeg Transit* All regular and augmented transit routes will remain the same as they were 2013. Users will be charged a one-way fare ($2.55) to get to Investors Group Field. It can be paid by cash, transit ticket, or bus pass. The return fare is free of charge. *Park-and-ride* A $5 charge will be collected (per person) at each location prior to the game or event. A $40 season park and ride pass (per person) is also available. Chartered school buses begin departing two hours before kickoff. The park and ride locations include: McPhillips Station Casino, 484 McPhillips St. (parking for 500 cars). Club Regent, 1425 Regent Ave. West (500 cars). St. Vital Public Works Yard, 590 St. Anne's Rd. (300 cars). Manitoba Hydro , 820 Taylor Ave. (500 cars). Assiniboia Downs (300 cars). St. Norbert Hotel, 3540 Pembina Hwy (200 cars). Garden City Centre (100 cars). Kildonan Place (100 cars). *On-campus parking* The Bombers have secured 5,000 parking spots on the University of Manitoba campus. Season parking passes and flex-pack game parking passes are available for purchase. Cash parking in regular lots is available ($20) on a first-come, first-served basis. Passes can be pre-purchased or purchased with cash on game day. The Bombers are also offering a new parking lot for carpool vehicles (three or more people). Cost for a carpool parking lot spot is $10. *Why not bike?* Once again, the club is offering a secure bike valet service, with a capacity for 800 bicycles. There are also approximately 400 more unmonitored spots to lock up your bike on the IGF grounds. -- source: www.bluebombers.com The club is also asking patrons to chip in on the park-and-ride program, charging $5 per person for those wanting to use the service. Last year, both transit and the park-and- ride program were free for ticket holders. This time, though, the club was forced to come up with a way to help control transportation costs after the city rescinded a transit proposal that would have seen the club receive a discounted rate. That proposal saw the city offer the Bombers transit subsidies worth approximately $650,000 this year. Winnipeg Transit recommended the subsidy in April, after five months of negotiations aimed at reducing the burden for the non-profit football club. The Bombers are expected to make a $4.5-million principal-and-interest payment this year on $85 million worth of loans that helped build Investors Group Field, its year-old home at the University of Manitoba's Fort Garry campus. In a May 27 statement from the city, acting chief administrative officer Deepak Joshi said the Bombers no longer need the transit subsidy due to the club's "robust financial situation" -- a reference to a $2.9-million profit reported by the club for the 2013 season. Unhappy with the about-face, the Bombers huddled and came up with a new game plan, passing some of the costs down to the fans. "This new plan will help offset some of the transportation costs by about one-third," said Bomber president and CEO Wade Miller. Miller estimates the transportation cost for 2014 could be as much as $1.25 million. A third of that is just more than $412,000. In 2013, the city charged the football club $1.1 million, or about $11 per person, to transport fans to and from events at Investors Group Field. The city intended to increase that to $1.25 million, or about $12.50 per person, this year. Last year, an average of 10,000 people took buses to events at Investors Group Field. Miller expects a few pockets of discontent over the new transportation plan -- expect delays at Winnipeg Transit stops while Blue and Gold-clad fans fumble with their change stepping onto the bus -- but his overall sense is Bombers supporters understand the reality facing the club on game days. "At our Fan Fest over the weekend, people told me, 'We're OK with paying our own way, Wade, you do what you need to do and we're comfortable with paying our own way to get down to the stadium,' " Miller said, adding he doesn't anticipate a rework of the plan should problems arise mid-season. "The plan is the same as last year, that's the important thing. We wanted to make sure we didn't interrupt the service level because at the end of the year all the bugs got worked out. It was a successful plan that the Bombers and Winnipeg Transit put together." Besides shelling out for a ride, the biggest change will be for the park-and-ride users. Approximately 130 school buses will in operation for the park and ride program, up significantly from the 50-75 buses used last year on game days. The park-and-ride will include the same eight routes as last year. Buses leave 90 minutes before kickoff, and the last bus leaves 30 minutes before. The service is free for the first preseason game versus Toronto Monday. The $5 charge kicks in for the June 26 regular-season opener against those same Argos. -- with files from Bartley Kives adam.wazny(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition June 6, 2014 B1

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