- AT-Network - University of Manitoba Mailing Lists

WFP: The city has made major gains in AT, but there are still some big holes in the network (Sept.8'12)
by Beth McKechnie 12 Sep '12

12 Sep '12

The city has made major gains in active transportation, but there are still some big holes in the network By: Jen Skerritt http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/pedalling-hard-169016466.html Tom McMahon hops on his bicycle every day to make the trek from his Riverview home to his downtown law practice. It's something he's done for the better part of a decade, and his commute to The Forks is fairly simple, thanks to a river trail that allows him to avoid traffic on busy streets. But every day for nine years, McMahon has encountered the same problem: a south Winnipeg bike path that stops dead in its tracks with no warning. There isn't even any signage directing cyclists where to go. The same route starts again four blocks later. It's one of many holes in Winnipeg's cycling network, McMahon said, which make it difficult for cyclists to find their way around. "It's a city-wide problem. I get frustrated every day," he said. "It drives me a little bit crazy." It's been two years since a $20.4-million federal stimulus program helped kick-start Winnipeg's active-transportation network. Thanks to the cash, more than 100 kilometres of lanes, pathways and tracks were built in record speed. The good news is, Winnipeg has made major gains in making the bicycle a viable option for getting around. There are more people using bicycles to commute and for recreation than ever before. The city has more paths for cyclists and pedestrians than cities such as Regina and Halifax -- and Winnipeg now has 35 km of on-street bike lanes. The not-so-good news is cycling can still be tricky -- and sometimes scary -- on trouble spots such as bridges or underpasses. Cycling advocates say the death of Victoria Nelson, who was struck and killed riding her bike near the underpass at Main Street and Higgins Avenue in May, and the death of a 68-year-old cyclist near York Avenue and Main Street Aug. 29 is proof problems still exist and more needs to be done to accommodate cyclists on the road. Next year, the city plans to start work on an active-transportation strategy -- a specific plan that will set out what needs to be done to reduce conflicts between cars and cyclists, improve connections between existing paths, and encourage more residents to walk or hop on a bike. Transportation manager Luis Escobar said Winnipeg cycling is still in its infancy and the city needs to figure out where it needs to focus its efforts in the coming years. "We have to step back a little bit and say we addressed the immediate needs and now we need to start thinking strategically," he said, noting the city does not have a long-term active-transportation plan. "We've got to go back and ask, 'what else do we need to do?' " In 2010, Winnipeg decided to spend five times as much money on active-transportation corridors as it had been thanks to an influx of federal stimulus cash. The goal was to add 102 kilometres of bike and pedestrian routes to the existing network within 18 months in order to catch up to some of the active-transportation progress being made elsewhere in the country. Despite initial opposition to some projects, most notably the Assiniboine Avenue bikeway, most projects were completed and more Winnipeggers are using the new paths to get around. Recent statistics compiled by advocacy group Bike to the Future estimate there are close to 13,000 people travelling by bike in and out of downtown most days. The city has continued to focus on how to build its pedestrian and cycling network. This year, Winnipeg beefed up its snow-clearing budget to clear more snow from active-transportation routes and encourage more people to use the trails for recreation and to commute during the winter. Escobar said the department tries to incorporate the needs of pedestrians and cyclists into every major road project. If there isn't a sidewalk, they build one. If there's no room for cyclists, they try to accommodate them. Right now, Winnipeg is working to connect two existing active-transportation paths by creating buffered bike lanes between Crescent and Plaza drives on Pembina Highway. "I think right now we've caught up to many other cities that are a similar size," Escobar said. But there is still more work to do. Most Winnipeggers still rely on their cars to get around, and tension exists between cyclists and motorists. Jino Distasio, director of Urban Studies at the University of Winnipeg, said the city needs to determine where bike infrastructure fits into its other priorities, such as fixing crummy roads riddled with potholes and investing in rapid transit. Distasio said cycling has evolved and is not just a "niche thing for hipster kids." Its popularity continues to grow and in order for motorists and cyclists to share the road safely, Winnipeg needs to make capital investments in its infrastructure and educate road users, he said. "I think a lot of it comes back to motorist education," Distasio said. "Even the most experienced (cyclist) will share tales of being clipped by a mirror or screamed at by an angry motorist who doesn't want to share the road." Jason Carter, head of Manitoba's Cycling Association, said he got lost earlier this summer trying to find bike routes to travel from north Main Street to downtown. Routes aren't clearly marked, he said, and far too often cyclists ride on the sidewalk or in the middle of the lane because they feel unsafe or there's not enough room for them on the streets. That, in turn, upsets motorists. McMahon, who is the co-chair of Bike to the Future, said he tries to avoid riding alongside cars as much as he can. He said some motorists try to squeeze by cyclists in the same lane, and many motorists do not understand how to use sharrows -- a shared lane for cyclists and motorists. "If I'm really feeling nervous there are times I will take the sidewalk," he said. "It's scary when somebody tries to share the lane with you." McMahon said Winnipeg should follow the lead of cities such as Montreal and Minneapolis and do more to connect routes and promote cycling, particularly for those who can't afford a car. He said building up the on-street cycling infrastructure could reduce road spending in the long-run, since there will be fewer vehicles and less wear-and-tear on city streets. It's something other Canadian cities have been moving toward. Last year, Ottawa became the first Ontario city to create segregated bike lanes downtown. In just one year, the lanes have seen more than 406,000 trips. Vancouver has made planning a bike ride much like planning a bus ride: insert your starting point and destination online, and the city's website will map the way. Riders can choose their own adventure: the shortest route or the one with the least pollution? Tree-lined path or the one with the fewest hills? Tom Thivener, the head of Calgary's cycling program, said downtown Calgary has 130,000 workers and no on-street bikeways. The brave take the lane, he said, while others avoid cycling altogether. He said U.S. cities are further ahead in building on-street infrastructure. This gets more people on bikes since they feel safe. "You don't see the results right away, but once you start implementing a well-designed network and bikeways on the street, you start to make it really easy for people to get on a bike," he said. jen.skerritt(a)freepress.mb.ca [image: Transportation manager Luis Escobar says cycling in Winnipeg is in its infancy. 'We've got to go back and ask,] Transportation manager Luis Escobar says cycling in Winnipeg is in its infancy. 'We've got to go back and ask, "What else do we need to do?"' (WAYNE GLOWACKI / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS ARCHIVES) Bike-ology 101 *A snapshot of active-transportation lingo:* *Bike lane:* A painted lane on a street for cyclists. *Bike paths/multi-use pathways:* Separate paths designed for pedestrians and cyclists which are not part of the roadway. *Sharrow:* A lane shared by both cars and cyclists. Typically, sharrows are created in wider curb lanes and a bicycle is stenciled on the street to show motorists it's a shared lane. *Bicycle track:* Facilities designed for cycling which are separate from vehicle traffic, such as the Assiniboine Avenue bikeway. *Bike boulevard:* Green and white signs mark bicycle routes. These are mostly found on wider, residential streets. Winnipeg *On-street bike lanes: 35 km* *Multi-use pathways: 181 km* *Bike paths: 4km* *Bicycle track: 2km* *Sharrows: 37km* *Bike boulevards: 56km* *The plan:* To start work on an active-transportation master plan in 2013 which will help guide how Winnipeg builds upon its existing network of paths and trails. Edmonton *On-street bike lanes: 48 km* *Multi-use pathways: 150 km* *The plan:* To build 500 km of on-street pathways over the next 20 years. In the short-term, that means the city plans to build an additional 15 km of on-street lanes this year and an additional 35 km of on-street bike paths by the end of 2014. Calgary *On-street bike lanes: 50 km* *Multi-use pathways: 700 km* *Signage: 400 km on residential streets* *The plan:* Calgary recently hired a full-time cycling coordinator to focus on building up commuter paths in the downtown. The city plans to spend $20 million over the next three years. Regina *On-street bike lanes: 11.4 km* *Multi-use pathways: 35 km* *The plan:* The city is in the midst of developing a cycling master plan, as part of its long-term transportation strategy. Hamilton *On-street bike lanes: 130 km* *Multi-use pathways: 140 km* *Paved shoulders: 20 km* *Sharrows: 3 km* *Signage: 185 km on lower-volume streets* *The plan: *The city plans to continue spending $1 million a year expanding its cycling network. Toronto *On-street bike lanes: 113 km* *Multi-use paths: 286 km* *Signed routes on residential streets: 147 km* *Sharrows: 9 km* *The plan: *Toronto plans to spend close to $88 million over the next 10 years on its cycling infrastructure. The funding will help double its bikeway network to a total of 1,132.2 km. Montreal *On-street bike lanes: 63 km* *Multi-use pathways: 86 km* *Sharrows: 9.7 km* *The plan:* By the end of this year, Montreal will grow its 560 km network of paths and trails to 600 km of lanes, pathways and trails. The city plans to spend about $10 million a year in the next decade to continue to build its network. Ottawa *On-street bike lanes: 210 km* *Multi-use pathways: 341 km* *Paved shoulders: 140 km* *The plan: *Ottawa has nearly doubled its cycling network since 2000 and plans to spend a total of $18.5 million on cycling between now and 2014 to continue to increase on-road facilities. Over the next three years, the city plans to provide an additional 70 km of bike lanes and paved shoulders. Halifax *Bike lanes (including sharrows): 87 km* *Multi-use paths: 246 km* *The plan: *The city is in the midst of doing a review of their active transportation plan, and is looking to increase the number of designated bike lanes.

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City to look at lowering speed limit to 40 km/h
by Anders Swanson 11 Sep '12

11 Sep '12

*[poster's note: 40kmph is still widely considered to be too fast to provide adequate levels of pedestrian safety, esp. in Europe, but it's a step in the right direction for Winnipeg. Free Press article below. To read about a residential speed reduction experiment done in Edmonton, read this<http://www.edmonton.ca/transportation/traffic_safety/speed-reduction-pilot.…>. - Anders]* Winnipeg Free Press - ONLINE EDITION City to look at lowering speed limit to 40 km/h By: Bartley Kives Posted: 3:00 PM | <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/City-to-look-at-lowering-speed-limit…> The City of Winnipeg will explore the idea of reducing residential speed limits to 40 km/h -- a move that would require provincial approval. City council's public works committee voted Tuesday to give city staff 90 days to consider the idea of reducing speeds on residential streets -- two-lane roads in residential neighbourhoods -- by 10 km/h. The idea was raised by Couns. Harvey Smith (Daniel McIntyre) and Ross Eadie (Mynarski). Dr. Lynne Warda of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority appeared before the committee to support the reduction, which she said would save lives. The reduction of residential speeds in other cities has led to a measurable reduction in the severity of injuries resulting from vehicle-pedestrian and vehicle-bicycle collisions, she said. Luis Escobar, the city's transportation manager, noted there's a difference between the posted speed limit and the speed people actually drive. Reducing speed limits can provide a false sense of security, he said. He said collisions causing injury have dropped from approximately 3,400 in 2001 to approximately 2,100 in 2010, even though the overall number of collisions has remained static. Nonetheless, Couns. Dan Vandal (St. Boniface), Brian Mayes (St. Vital), Devi Sharma (Old Kildonan) and Jenny Gerbasi (Fort Rouge) voted in favour of studying the idea. The public works committee also voted in favour of a water and waste recommendation against a plastic-bag ban in Winnipeg -- and voted to hold for a month on a plan to launch a study to create a regional transportation authority. All four members of the committee criticized Winnipeg Transit for bringing forward terms of reference for a transportation authority only 24 hours before Tuesday's meeting. Vandal said he cares more about the city than the capital region and questioned the direction of the study. source: http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/City-to-look-at-lowering-speed-limit…

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Free Download - Steps to a Walkable Community: A Guide for Citizens, Planners, and Engineers
by Beth McKechnie 11 Sep '12

11 Sep '12

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here <http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=7ujbt4bab&v=001-VufbrhO4…> [image: AW generic use banner]* A new book and workshop series puts innovative, multidisciplinary pro-walking tactics in the hands of citizens, planners, and engineers. STEPS TO A WALKABLE COMMUNITY: A Guide for Citizens, Planners and Engineers is now available as a free download.<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5cr7z3P_16BHcIBnbbOu6QXZk9fBqrGXZY9…> * Dear Beth, I am pleased to announce that America Walks and our partners Sam Schwartz Engineering, the transportation engineering consulting firm, have just launched Steps to a Walkable Community: A Guide for Citizens, Planners, and Engineers<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5cr7z3P_16BHcIBnbbOu6QXZk9fBqrGXZY9…>. This book and downloadable PDF is a collection of innovative tactics that have successfully improved and encouraged walking in communities around the country. This resource serves as the basis for a series of webinars, phone discussion groups, trainings, and walking campaign walkshops™ also launching this month. Stay tuned for more information about this series. Walk On in Health and Safety, Scott Bricker Executive Director Please see our website<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5dGsWcY6vBRDBNas6i8N6wUWh1w4bqgQG8R…>for more information about Steps to a Walkable Community. Support our work with a donation<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5eknVWXcwh58EuDNQwr8GAFwrYeCqAGoWl5…> *Home<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5cYaTcu0u6HP7y_qzqM7g7LzAw3Mkz1xm7Q…> l Endorse our vision statement<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5cJD5eqcF35W1FXSI4KY-CVgVFPetFVTc2M…> * [image: Find us on Facebook]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5cij84_kGNFS_w7dnU0DsQKsFOS8Kh5x1R3…> Connect on facebook [image: Follow us on Twitter]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001qcXNnIKvw5euoN6xd5EnY68PG8Nun-4OpqN456gvTDzL…> Follow us on twitter America Walks PO Box 10581 Portland OR 97296 703.738.4889 Forward email<http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?llr=7ujbt4bab&m=1101645522588&ea=…> <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=001nkQbX5l1Qs-sYmoTIOU1AUn7H…> <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_BusLet_002> This email was sent to beth(a)greenactioncentre.ca by info(a)americawalks.org | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe<http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=001nkQbX5l1Qs-sYmoTIOU1AUn7H…>™ | Privacy Policy <http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp>. America Walks | PO Box 10581 | Portland | OR | 97296 -- *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/memberships/>

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AT webinar: Connecting Greenways, Trails and Active Mobility, Wed, Sept 12th, 2-3:15 pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 10 Sep '12

10 Sep '12

Green Action Centre and Bike to the Future invite you to join us for a local viewing of the upcoming American Trails webinar this Wednesday, Sept. 12th, and an APBP webinar on Wed, Sept. 19th. Both take place at the EcoCentre (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) followed by group discussion.* *Detailed descriptions are provided below.* **The Third Mode: Connecting Greenways, Trails and Active Mobility * Wednesday, September 12th | 2:00 to 3:15 p.m. CDT * **Liability: Understanding and Managing Risk Wednesday, September 19th | 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. CDT * RSVPs are appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth 925-3772 * * * * * * American Trails presents... * *The Third Mode: Connecting Greenways, Trails and Active Mobility **This session will look at the latest issues and policies in planning and designing urban mobility networks and how these can best integrate with greenway and trail networks to create seamless metro-wide systems. * Communities around the globe are looking for better solutions that engage more people in traveling by bike, on foot, and other human powered modes for both transportation and recreation. In the face of an epidemic of physical inactivity, climate change, and rising energy costs, this know-how is becoming increasingly important for public health and quality of life. These improvements are increasingly recognized as essential for communities to be competitive as places to live and to attract new businesses. This session will look at the latest issues and policies in the planning and design of urban mobility networks and how these can best integrate with greenway and trail networks to create seamless metro-wide systems. The webinar will provide participants with a chance to see how the trails and active transportation movement can be seen as part of larger cultural trends. We will also look at the current funding environment in the face of the new MAP-21 federal legislation and how to best navigate change. . *About The Third Mode, by Jeff Olson* Walking and bicycling are metaphors. While they are unique forms of mobility, they can also be thought of together to represent a “third mode” of transportation that is as important as highways and mass transit. This mode of transport, and the kind of change that is required to integrate it into our modern world, symbolizes a different perspective on our way of thinking. If you can understand why non-motorized mobility is important for transportation, you can also see how other problems could be resolved with similar thinking. This thought process is called the Third Mode, and this book describes how it can lead to a more connected, healthy, and sustainable society. Sam Piper, an intern with Alta Planning + Design is assisting author Jeff Olson in promoting “The Third Mode: Towards a Green Society.” He is responsible for e-publishing the book and coordinating a social media campaign. Sam received a BA in Business from Saint Anselm College and is currently pursuing a Masters of Urban and Regional Planning at the State University of New York at Albany. Contact Sam with any questions regarding the book release and promotional campaign at thethirdmode(a)gmail.com. ** *Presenters for "The Third Mode: Connecting Greenways, Trails and Active Mobility":* *Jeff Olson*, Partner - Alta Planning + Design<http://www.altaplanning.com/>(Author of “The Third Mode”) Jeff Olson is an architect and planner who has been involved in greenways, open space, active living and alternative transportation projects for more than 20 years. He has had a diverse career with experience in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. His unique vision and leadership ability are important assets to projects ranging from regional planning to site specific projects and programs. He is an avid bicyclist and skier who has the perspective of a parent with three young children. *Andy Clarke*, President, League of American Bicyclists<http://www.bikeleague.org/> Andy Clarke is President of the League of American Bicyclists, the nation's oldest national bicycling organization founded in 1880. Andy has been the chief staff officer of the League since his appointment as Executive Director in 2004, prior to that he served as the State and Local Advocacy Director. He was also the League's Government Relations Director from 1988 to 1990. He has served variously as Chair of the Transportation Research Board's Bicycle Transportation Committee, Chair of the America Bikes Coalition, and a founding steering committee member of the Safe Routes to School National Partnership and Complete Streets Coalition. Andy is a regular bicycle commuter and recreational rider. *Bob Searns (moderator)*, Owner of The Greenway Team<http://greenwayteam.com/>and Chair of American Trails Board <http://www.americantrails.org/board.html> Bob is the current Chair of the American Trails Board of Directors. He is the founding owner of The Greenway Team, a planning and development firm based in Denver, CO that has specialized for three decades in greenways, trails, and conservation. He was Project Director of Denver's Platte River Greenway, one of the nation's benchmark urban trail projects, and produced 10,000 Trees, an eight-mile river corridor restoration project involving 3,000 volunteers. He has authored a greenways and trails plan for the 43-square-mile area west of Denver International Airport, as well as trail and greenway projects across the nation including Chicago, Dallas, Memphis, Louisville, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Memphis, and Portland. He was a development consultant for the Grand Canyon Greenway, a precedent-setting 72-mile system of multi-use trails along the canyon rim. Bob has conducted workshops throughout North America, China and Europe. He co-authored Greenways: A Guide to Planning, Design, and Development (published in the U.S. and. China), Trails for the 21st Century, and contributed to Greenways, The Beginning of an International Movement. * * * * * The Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals (APBP) presents: Liability: Understanding and Managing Risk Wednesday, September 19th | 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. CDT The law is a tool--not a barrier--to making public streets safer for all users. Learn how city and state departments of transportation use the law as a normal part of evaluating bicycle and pedestrian projects and when determining whether improvements are needed after a crash occurs. [image: risk]Presentations will provide the context of federal and state guidance on local policy and design decisions, an overview of the legal concepts, and a case study of how the City of Seattle has successfully documented and defended design decisions. This webinar session will specifically discuss the concepts of negligence, reasonable care and governmental immunity. Examples are offered to encourage engineers, planners, law enforcement and legal counsel to collaborate for improved outcomes. Who should attend? Transportation planners, engineers, public works directors and staff, legal counsel, law enforcement and elected officials who need to know how to work within the existing framework of federal and state requirements to meet public demand for safe streets that are pedestrian and bicycle friendly. Presenters: Rebecca Boatright, Senior Assistant City Attorney with the City of Seattle; Michael Ronkin, Principal, Designing Streets for People; Benjamin Winig, Senior Staff Attorney and Program Director, ChangeLab Solutions.

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FW: ParticipACTION Forum- Active Transportation
by Kristine Hayward 07 Sep '12

07 Sep '12

From: ParticipACTION [mailto:sarah@participaction.ccsend.com] On Behalf Of ParticipACTION Sent: Friday, September 07, 2012 3:30 PM To: Kristine Hayward Subject: ParticipACTION Forum- Active Transportation PARTICIPACTION FORUM Dear friends of ParticipACTION, You have shown interest in ParticipACTION Forums in the past and so we would like to invite you to attend our upcoming Forum occurring this September 18 2012, 1:00-2:30 PM EST. The ParticipACTION Forums (national webinars) are designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and sharing between partners. The theme of our September 2012 Forum will be Active Transportation. The online Forum will allow participants to connect, share insights and potentially collaborate on future initiatives pertaining to the topic at hand. We would love to have you participate in this online Forum. If you are interested, please email forum(a)participACTION.com. If you would like to receive updates, news, tips, and research information from us, sign up for one of our monthly ParticipACTION E-Newsletters <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001sZtLCRG2nvQuF3V_rBfAPhgE9XD8Ksfgo1zIsxXM x06mSeExJh6PFc0WAO2luhHZ36LNLvqwEPxHLAEzvsGea7ku2B2qS078074LC4JZEaYUfmaD c7oX6hWIcgiFBmZcJamtbFoOLxzzDNzKtJNIlkhRQOzYaY8-5tr3rIyXYMM=> . Thank you! ParticipACTION logo<http://ih.constantcontact.com/fs005/1102033761678/img/241.gif> If you do not wish to receive emails about upcoming ParticipACTION Forums please email forum(a)participACTION.com. Forward email <http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?llr=omnjflcab&m=1102033761678 &ea=khayward%40wrha.mb.ca&a=1110940993261> <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=0016kgdmuAR3nDA9dPME10z- 5A1Aa2F66Fx&t=001WWOjAmsH5y0TzPiQVHfkKg%3D%3D&lang=001FCSs65SMrsI%3D&rea son=001IqezpQbqEsU%3D&llr=omnjflcab> This email was sent to khayward(a)wrha.mb.ca by forum(a)participaction.com | Update Profile/Email Address <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=oo&mse=0016kgdmuAR3nDA9dPME10z- 5A1Aa2F66Fx&t=001WWOjAmsH5y0TzPiQVHfkKg%3D%3D&lang=001FCSs65SMrsI%3D&rea son=001IqezpQbqEsU%3D&llr=omnjflcab> | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=0016kgdmuAR3nDA9dPME10z- 5A1Aa2F66Fx&t=001WWOjAmsH5y0TzPiQVHfkKg%3D%3D&lang=001FCSs65SMrsI%3D&rea son=001IqezpQbqEsU%3D&llr=omnjflcab> (tm) | Privacy Policy <http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp> . ParticipACTION | 2 Bloor street E | Toronto | Ontario | M4W 1A8 | Canada <http://r20.rs6.net/on.jsp?t=1110940993261.0.1102033761678.762&ts=S0813& o=http://ui.constantcontact.com/images/p1x1.gif> This email and/or any documents in this transmission is intended for the addressee(s) only and may contain legally privileged or confidential information. Any unauthorized use, disclosure, distribution, copying or dissemination is strictly prohibited. If you receive this transmission in error, please notify the sender immediately and return the original. Ce courriel et tout document dans cette transmission est destiné à la personne ou aux personnes à qui il est adressé. Il peut contenir des informations privilégiées ou confidentielles. Toute utilisation, divulgation, distribution, copie, ou diffusion non autorisée est strictement défendue. Si vous n'êtes pas le destinataire de ce message, veuillez en informer l'expéditeur immédiatement et lui remettre l'original.

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Active & Green - Ciclovia, back to work, and youth on transit
by Jessie Klassen 07 Sep '12

07 Sep '12

Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser.<http://us2.campaign-archive1.com/?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3f55cc&id=bad05980bc…> *Looking to improve commuter options at your workplace?* Request resources<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>on cycling, carpooling, commuting surveys and tracking progress, among others. Book a presentation<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>on the various commuting options, as well as fuel-efficient driving, creating a commuter friendly workplace, and greening the workplace. Attend a Creative Commuting Ambassador<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>workshop. It's free! ------------------------------ Upcoming Events *Ciclovia*<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> Sunday, Sept. 9 *PARK(ing) Day*<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> Friday, Sept. 21 *World Car Free Day* Saturday, Sept. 22 *IWALK*<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> International Walk to School Day Wednesday, Oct. 10 International Walk to School Week October 8-12, 2012 ------------------------------ Make Green Action Centre Your Charity of Choice Every year, thousands of Manitoba employees participate in workplace giving programs, such as the provincial government’s All-Charities <http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>campaign. By giving just a few dollars from your paycheque each month you can make a big difference for protecting the environment and promoting environmental education. *Please consider making Green Action Centre your charity of choice this year *. Ciclovia this Sunday! Come out on foot or by bike for Winnipeg's 4th Ciclovia<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>this Sunday, September 9th! Cycle a network of car-free streets from Assiniboine Park all the way to The Forks. Take your time along the north side of Broadway from Osborne to Donald Street for local food, displays, music and all sorts of activities. From Zumba and yoga to a wine and cheese festival, soap box derby and lots in between! Start Something Good Want to improve commuting options at your workplace? Pick a project, large or small, and gather a few co-workers and a manager to help make it a reality. Maybe a bike rack or a ride-matching board for carpooling. Get started here<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>. Find a great source of ideas in the judging criteria<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>for the Commuter Friendly Workplace Award. Or check out what Assiniboine Credit Union, the 2012 Gold Award winner<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>, is doing. Every step counts! Youth on Transit With the new school year starting, it can be a great time to introduce your kids to transit. Whether you’ll be taking transit with your children<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>, or whether they’re at an age to try transit on their own<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>, public transit can help you to avoid rush-hour stress, school bus headaches, and wasted gas. Cycling Roundabouts to Edible Bus Stops - Turns out that GenY-ers are driving less than generations before. But it kind of makes sense. Read about it here<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>. Then check out Peg City Car Co-op<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> . - Minneapolis is the #1 Bike City in the U.S.? Who'd a thunk our neighbours to the south – with winters pretty much like Winnipeg's – would cap the list. Take that, Portland! Pedal to the article here<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> . - Some people were confounded by small traffic circles introduced in Winnipeg to calm traffic and make those streets more bike- and walk-friendly. How about a floating cycle roundabout instead? Bike in circles here<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> . - Take a ride to an Edible Bus Stop<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> . Cold Weather Cycling You can feel the definite chill of fall in the evenings now. Perhaps you'd like to continue cycling longer into the season or even year-round. Find all sorts of winter cycling tips<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>here along with this cold weather cycling brochure<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>. You are receiving this email because you are an Active & Green subscriber. Unsubscribe<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/unsubscribe?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> jessie_klassen(a)hotmail.com from this list. Our mailing address is: Green Action Centre 3-303 Portage Ave. Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 2B4 Canada Add us to your address book<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/vcard?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3f5…> Copyright (C) 2012 Green Action Centre All rights reserved. Forward<http://us2.forward-to-friend1.com/forward?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3f55cc&id=ba…>this email to a friend Update your profile<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/profile?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3…> [image: Email Marketing Powered by MailChimp]<http://www.mailchimp.com/monkey-rewards/?utm_source=freemium_newsletter&utm…>

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Two wheels good but often misunderstood
by Shoni Litinsky 06 Sep '12

06 Sep '12

Thank you to Dave Elmore for posting this excellent blog focusing around cooperation on the road between motorists and cyclists. Very useful tips which have certainly helped me on the road daily on my bike, or when driving a car! Link: http://greenactioncentre.ca/2012/two-wheels-good-but-often-misunderstood/ *Two wheels good but often misunderstood.* A recent article in the Winnipeg Free Press (Bartley Kives, Septemeber 9) <http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/b_kives/two-wheels-good…>and some prompting from a friend started me thinking about my own simple rules to help cyclists and drivers co-exist on the roads. As both a motorist and long time commuter cyclist, I also see Winnipeg’s roads from both perspectives, but maybe a little different than Bartley. As a Can-Bike instructor and cycling educator I definitely see some aspects that others might overlook. I would agree with Mr. Kives’ statements that riding on the sidewalk is dangerous, the city is not overly hostile towards cyclists and that the city still has some distance to go before it can rank as and among the best. I would not necessarily agree that there are a lot of places that “it’s freaking horrifying to be in traffic on a bike.” With appropriate education and skills most roads can be navigated safely. While a small minority of motorists can be intolerant, the vast majority of drivers and cyclists are reasonable people and given the appropriate education and information, can share the road quite amicably. Here are a few other things that motorists and cyclists can do to make the streets of Winnipeg a comfortable and pleasant place to ride a bike. reduce the potential for car-bike conflict. Some are common sense, some are counterintuitive while others have simply been forgotten or never learned in the first place. FIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE COOPERATION ON THE ROAD IF YOU’RE ON A BIKE: 1. Communicate: Hand signals are not common among cyclists, however they are an essential part of communicating your intentions and sharing the road. Drivers cannot read your mind! Hand signals alert drivers to what you want to do and you will be surprised how often they will let you do just that. And don’t forget shoulder checking. A simple shoulder check also communicates to a motorist that you are considering a change to your position on the road. 2. Follow the rules: In order to get the respect of motorists, you must earn it. Following the same rules will go a long way to helping drivers understand that we are not a bunch of scofflaws that follow their own set of rules. As more cyclists begin to demonstrate fair and reasonable behaviour, motorists will in turn change both their opinions and actions towards cyclists. 3. Ride predictably and allow space to manoeuvre: The Highway Traffic Act (HTA) states that cyclists are to ride as close as “practicable” to the edge of the road. Practicable should mean SAFE. This means NEVER hugging the curb but instead positioning yourself at least 1 meter away from the curb to maintain a straight line while avoiding the debris, potholes, cracks and manhole covers that litter the edge of most roads. In some situation such as construction or bridges with no bike lanes, practicable may mean taking the centre of the lane. Riding too close to the curb will encourage drivers to try and slide by you in the same lane, but also requires that in the event that you need to avoid a hazard, you must move left into the traffic flow. When passing parked cars increase this distance to 1.5 meters and stay out of the door zone. Riding too close to parked cars is dangerous and the consequences of hitting an open car door can be catastrophic. And while you are passing by those parked cars, don’t weave in the out from between them. Remember riding in a straight line makes you predictable. 4. At intersections or stop signs, take the middle of the lane: At intersections many cyclists stop beside the curb and rest their foot on it. This allows vehicles to pull up beside you and if they happen to be turning right, puts you in the perfect position for a “right hook.” If you are proceeding straight, that right turning vehicle may “hook” right in front of you. If you reposition yourself to the centre of the lane as they approach the intersection, you will stay in the driver’s field of vision and allow yourself room to manoeuvre when you start up again. Would you prefer to start up with tons of steel behind or in front of you, or directly beside you. The decision is an easy one! In heavy traffic many cyclists also ride up along the right hand side of stopped vehicles to reposition themselves to the head of the line. This is another habit that can result in a “right hook” or maybe even getting “doored.” It annoys drivers because they are forced to once again pass by you on the road ahead. If you want to be treated like an equal, you must act like one. 5. Get off the sidewalk: Riding on the sidewalk is illegal and statistically the most dangerous place to ride. Drivers are not looking for fast moving bicycles on sidewalks, they are looking for slow moving pedestrians. Further complicating this are all those uncontrolled intersections like driveways and back lanes. At many of these intersections the driver’s field of vision is blocked or obscured by fences and trees making it impossible to see you until they have already pulled out into your path. Sidewalks are for walking, it’s in the name. Cyclists need to remember that they are vulnerable road users, however it is also true that with proper skills and knowledge you can easily navigate the streets safely. The keys are knowledge and skills. We can all improve our cycling skills. Ttake a course that teaches actual on road cycling skills, you’ll find that there is much you didn’t know and much you can improve on. FIVE WAYS TO IMPROVE COOPERATION ON THE ROAD IF YOU’RE IN A CAR: 1. Stay alert for bicycles: Keep your focus on the road, especially at intersections. You’ll not only avoid accidents in general but hopefully you will see the many cyclists that are now using Winnipeg’s streets. Too often when car-bike collisions occur, drivers claim they did not see the cyclist. This could be due to the cyclist’s behaviour, but it can also be driver inattention. Regardless of who made an error, a car-bike collision will result in serious injury or even death for a cyclist. 2. Provide a safe passing distance: At speeds under 60 km/hr drivers should provide a minimum of 1 meter of passing distance. At higher speeds drivers should move over to the adjacent lane. In fact, if the lane adjacent to you is available, use it. For the vast majority of Winnipeg streets there is not sufficient space to pass a cyclist in the same lane. Plan ahead when you see a cyclist and reposition your car at least partially into the next lane in order to provide sufficient passing distance. It is a frightening experience on a bike to be passed closely by tons of steel and could cause a cyclist to panic and lose control. No one really wants to add another statistic. 3. Think before you react: In many cases drivers simply don’t understand what constitutes reasonable or even safe behaviour on the part of a cyclist. Let’s start with two of the most common misunderstandings: - Cyclists do not belong on the sidewalk: Riding on the sidewalk is illegal and far more dangerous than riding on the roadway where drivers will actually see a cyclist. Riding on sidewalks is particularly dangerous at intersections where you may have difficulty predicting or even seeing a fast moving bike on the sidewalk. - The Highway Traffic Act states the cyclists are to ride “as close as practicable” to the edge of the road. This does not mean hugging the curb. The edges of many roads contain hazards like ruts, potholes, cracks, manhole covers, and debris. While these don’t represent a problem on 4 wide car tires, they can be a significant issue while balancing of two thin tires. If cyclists are to ride predictably in a straight line and avoid these hazards, they need to maintain a minimum distance of 1 meter from the edge. On bridges with no bike lanes or through construction or other similarly narrow traffic lanes, there is no room to share and so cyclists may need to take the centre of the lane. We’re not hogging the road, just taking enough space to ride safely. 4. Don’t honk your horn at me: Honking your horn, even if well intentioned, can be very startling for the cyclists. They are not insulated by steel and glass and the sound of a car horn behind them can cause them to panic and lose control. Save your horn for times when you really need it. 5. Shoulder-check before opening your car door: Cyclists should not ride within the door zone of parked cars, but traffic conditions and lack of knowledge result in many cyclists doing just that. It’s easy to check over your shoulder before opening the door just to be sure. Drivers need to remember that from inside tons of steel and glass you can’t see what a cyclist sees, hear what a cyclists hears, or feel what a cyclist feels. They are vulnerable road users, but with your cooperation they can be just another vehicle on the road. -- *Shoni Litinsky* | Active and Safe Routes to School Green Action Centre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/> 3rd floor, 303 Portage Avenue* | *(204) 925-3773 Green Action Centre is your non-profit hub for greener living. Support our work by becoming a member<http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/memberships/> Find us here<http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/ecocentre-directions-and-travel-options/>

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Job Posting - PACM Project Coordinator
by Beth McKechnie 05 Sep '12

05 Sep '12

Emerging from the Coalition Strategic Planning Session in May 2012 and with funding support from Manitoba Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs/Manitoba *in motion, *PACM <http://pacm.ca/> is embarking on a 8 month project to: 1. Increase opportunites for knowledge exchange among coalition members, supporters and the general public that focus on evidence based research, best and promising practices, current trends and issues and highlight the value and benefits of physical activity across the life span. 2. Enhance communication strategies that support key or critical messages and promotes PACM as a strong, unified voice for physical activity in Manitoba and 3. Enhance membership and partner strategies that support collaboration and networking among organizations, agencies and government departments locally, regionally and provincially. *Hence, PACM is in search of a Project Coordinator. It is a part-time, eight month (8) term position to March 2013.* *Please share and distribute the attached job posting through your respective networks. Application deadline is 4:00 p.m. Friday, September 14th* Have a great day! Cory Jackson Chair, PACM (Physical Activity Coalition of Manitoba) Executive Director, Recreation Connections Manitoba

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Webinar reminder: NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide, Wed, Sept 5th, 2-3:30, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 04 Sep '12

04 Sep '12

*Friendly reminder about tomorrow's webinar...* Green Action Centre and Bike to the Future invite you to join us for a local viewing of the upcoming APBP webinar at the EcoCentre (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) followed by group discussion.* *Detailed description provided below.* *2nd Edition, NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide *Wednesday, Sept 5th | 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. CDT* Also mark your calendars for these additional September webinars (details to follow closer to the date): *The Third Mode: Greenways, Trails and Active Mobility (American Trails)* *Wednesday, Sept 12th, 2:00 to 3:15 pm CDT* *Liability: Understanding and Managing Risk (APBP)* *Wednesday, Sept 19th, 2:00 to 3:00 pm CDT* RSVPs are appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth 925-3772 * * * * * The Association of Pedestrian and Bicycle Professionals (APBP) and NACTO present: 2nd Edition, NACTO Urban Bikeway Design Guide *Wednesday, September 5th | 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. CDT* ACTO's Urban Bikeway Design Guide has quickly emerged as the preeminent resource for designing safe, protected bikeways in cities across the United States. NACTO will release the second edition of the guide in June, with updated graphic profiles for all of its bicycle facilities, a new subsection on bicycle boulevard planning and design, and a survey of materials used for green color in bikeways. The guide continues to build upon the fast-changing state of the practice at the local level; it responds to and accelerates innovative street design and practice around the nation. This 90-minute webinar on the second edition of the Bikeway Design Guide offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from some of the cities that compiled the guide. Gain a better understanding of the guide's contents, hear how to use and implement these designs, and find out what NACTO envisions as the next steps to adopt and deploy these tools and design guidelines. *Presenters*: Roger Geller, Bicycle Coordinator, Portland Bureau of Transportation; Joe Gilpin, Senior Planner, Alta Planning + Design; David Vega-Barachowitz, Sustainable Initiatives Program Manager, National Association of City Transportation Officials. -- *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/memberships/>

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88-year-old Calgarian credits long life to daily cycling routine
by Beth McKechnie 03 Sep '12

03 Sep '12

[Saw this wonderful story circulated by WinnipegBikeAlerts and had to share! -Beth] With a bike and an oxygen tank, 88-year-old Calgarian credits long life to daily cycling routine By Annalise Klingbeil, Calgary Herald | August 30, 2012 [image: Calgarian Ken Johnson is 88-years-old and, despite relying on a wheelchair and oxygen tank, rides his bicycle for at least an hour every day.] *Photograph by: *Colleen De Neve , Calgary HeraldCALGARY - There’s nothing that will stop 88-year-old Ken Johnson from riding his bicycle. Not a wheelchair. Not an oxygen tank. Not Calgary’s cold winters. Every day, the octogenarian uses a wheelchair to get from his northwest apartment to the building’s parkade, where he stores his bicycle. He uses a bungee cord to strap his metal oxygen tank onto a shelf on the back of his bike. Then he puts on a blue helmet, trades his wheelchair for his bicycle and pedals, for at least one hour a day. “I’m probably healthier now than I was 20 years ago, and the only reason that I’m still able to do things is because of bike riding,” Johnson said. “If it wasn’t for bike riding, I probably wouldn’t be here now.” When the mercury drops below zero, Johnson rides inside, up and down the seven floors of his apartment building’s parkade. The great-great grandfather started cycling when he was in his 60s, after he was diagnosed with emphysema. “I quit smoking and started to ride,” he said. While he initially struggled to keep his balance, Johnson, who learned to bike as a child but never owned a bicycle of his own, kept pedalling because he knew it was good for his health. Recent health struggles haven’t caused the senior to slow down. When the widower started using oxygen about four years ago, after being diagnosed with colon cancer, he continued to cycle. “Once I went on oxygen, I didn’t want to quit riding and I couldn’t ride very far without the oxygen,” Johnson said. Riding with his oxygen tank, a move that elicits stares from the people he passes on Calgary’s bike paths, was the logical next move for the senior. “I’ve got to have my oxygen on all the time because my lungs are really, really bad,” he said. When his legs began to slow down last year, Johnson visited a Canadian Tire sale and picked up an electric bicycle for half price. “I still pedal a lot but I use the electric bike to go up the hills and against the wind,” he said. Six months ago, Johnson began using a wheelchair when he was forced to stop four or five times to catch his breath, even with oxygen, on the short walk from his apartment to his bicycle. “It’s far easier for me to ride than it is to walk,” Johnson said. “I can ride for hours and hours and hours. I usually cut my oxygen down when I’m riding.” The retired salesman always rides solo and typically cycles in the afternoon to places accessible on the city’s bike paths, such as the zoo and Bowness Park. Johnson, a Second World War veteran who rode motorcycles in the army, drove a motorcycle, with his oxygen tank strapped to the back, until last year when his license was taken away. He’s yet to let anything stop him from riding his bicycle and is determined to keep it that way. “As long as I can get down to my bike, I’m going to ride,” he said. AKlingbeil(a)calgaryherald.com http://www.calgaryherald.com/travel/With+bike+oxygen+tank+year+Calgarian+cr… <AKlingbeil(a)calgaryherald.com>

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