- AT-Network - University of Manitoba Mailing Lists

Have you been in a traffic collision? The Free Press wants to talk to you
by Anders Swanson 24 Apr '14

24 Apr '14

Have you been in a traffic collision? The Free Press wants to talk to you Have you been in a car accident in the last couple of years? The Free Press would like to hear your story. Next month, the *Free Press *will launch a series on road safety in Winnipeg. As part of the series, Mary Agnes Welch is looking to interview motorists, cyclists and pedestrians who have been involved in collisions in the last couple of years. We’d also love to hear your views on improving road safety in Winnipeg. Please email reporter Mary Agnes Welch at maryagnes.welch(a)freepress.mb.ca or call her at 204-697-7590.

1 0

Chris Turner: Cycle tracks are the sustainable choice
by Anders Swanson 23 Apr '14

23 Apr '14

[With a network of downtown cycletracks one of the action items proposed in Winnipeg's new cycling strategies under development, it may be worth reading an article from Calgary - just now undertaking a similar initiative - that helps put the scale of the work into perspective. - Anders ] Chris Turner: Cycle tracks are the sustainable choice <goog_125892633> http://www.calgaryherald.com/opinion/op-ed/Turner+Cycle+tracks+sustainable+…

1 0

Cycling for health, environment and economy
by Cyndi Otfinowski 23 Apr '14

23 Apr '14

Hello, I receive the phenews from the World Health Organization. They have just sent this press release available in multiple languages. http://www.euro.who.int/en/media-centre/sections/press-releases/2014/cyclin… "Cycling for health, environment and economy Cycling could create at least 76 600 jobs and save 10 000 lives every year in major European cities according to the new publication by the UN Economic Commission for Europe and the WHO Regional Office for Europe. If these cities reached the cycling modal share of Copenhagen, they would not only benefit from the positive effects on health and environment, but also economically. " Sincerely, Cyndi Otfinowski

1 0

Fwd: 2014 Accessibility Awards
by Anders Swanson 23 Apr '14

23 Apr '14

[Dear AT-Network: Know a project/person/design/initiative/firm that has excelled at making it easier for persons with disabilities to move around Winnipeg? Think it deserves an award? Nominate them. See below. - anders] ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: *Sobkowicz, Chris* <csobkowicz(a)winnipeg.ca> Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2014 Subject: 2014 Accessibility Awards To: "Sobkowicz, Chris" <csobkowicz(a)winnipeg.ca> *** Please feel free to pass this along to all of your contacts and associates. Thanks.******* *Save the Date…… Construction is now complete!* *Time to cut the ribbon…* Building upon our successes and work in promoting universal design principles and accessibility issues with the stakeholders of built spaces in Winnipeg, and in celebration of the Access Advisory Committee’s 20th year, the committee has completed the makeover of its annual awards program – the Access Awards. Presented and administered by the City of Winnipeg’s Access Advisory Committee, the Access Awards raise awareness regarding the importance of accessibility and universal design in the City of Winnipeg. Universal design makes life more equitable, safe, comfortable and affordable for everyone, including people with disabilities. These annual awards honour projects that incorporate physical access, communication access and/or way finding. What is different this year? *You have to go to be in the know…* Formerly known as the City Accessibility Awards, the 2014 Access Awards now have a different category structure and an updated criteria for eligibility. Further, all nominees and award recipients will be announced at a celebratory event. Nominees will not be announced in advance. This event is an excellent opportunity to network with other architects, designers, project owners, students and other professionals in the field. The organizing committee has selected the theme “Celebrating our successes and the increased use of universal design over the years”, which will be highlighted through a comedic retrospective showing how we have changed our “Best Practices” over the past eleven years. Save the date! *Celebrating accessibility…* This new gala evening will be held *Wednesday, September 10th, 2014*, at the Met Entertainment Centre, where we will announce the winner of the City’s Award of Excellence in Design and all the 2014 nominees and the category winners in an Academy Awards-style programme. The event includes dinner, wine and entertainment. Hope to see you there! Call for Nominations *Recognizing great local work…* The nomination process is now open and it is time to recognize the great work that has been recently completed in our city. We have attached the new nomination package and form that has all of the information needed to nominate a project. This material can also be found on our web site at: www.aacwinnipeg.mb.ca Chris Sobkowicz Coordinator Winnipeg Access Advisory Committee 204 986-8345 csobkowicz(a)winnipeg.ca<javascript:_e(%7B%7D,'cvml','csobkowicz(a)winnipeg.ca');> www.aacwinnipeg.mb.ca *Chris Sobkowicz* Coordinator City of Winnipeg Access Advisory Committee 204 986-8345 www.aacwinnipeg.mb.ca

1 0

Fwd: Webinar: Bringing Health into the Transportation Planning Process
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 21 Apr '14

21 Apr '14

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Sarah Prowse <sprowse(a)wrha.mb.ca> Date: 11 April 2014 12:53 Subject: Webinar: Bringing Health into the Transportation Planning Process To: Hello, We would like to invite you to join us for the CHNET and CLASP webinar "Bringing Health into the Transportation Planning Process" - a presentation of some of the work undertaken in British Columbia and Quebec through the Healthy Canada by Design CLASP initiative. Following the 2 hour webinar, we'll have an opportunity to spend half an hour discussing the implications for Winnipeg. We've had the opportunity to hear about this work in its earlier stages, and we're excited to hear about the most recent lessons learned and how they can be applied here! Please feel free to bring your lunch as the webinar does fall over our lunch hour. We will also try to have some snacks. RSVPs are appreciated but not necessary. Please feel free to contact me at sprows(a)wrha.mb.ca or 204 962-0403. Enjoy the puddles (or more snow!) this weekend J Sarah *Bringing Health into the Transportation Planning Process * April 24, 2014, 12:00-2:30pm Winnipeg Regional Health Authority 490 Hargrave Street Meeting Room 119* *Enter through the Travel Health Clinic entrance at the corner of Hargrave St & McDermot Ave Bike racks are available in front of the building at the corner of Hargrave and McDermot. Plan your Winnipeg Transit trip: http://winnipegtransit.com/en/navigo Street parking (metered) is available in front of the building *CHNET-Works! is pleased to collaborate with the Healthy Canada by Design CLASP Initiative, funded by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, on this Fireside Chat.* *Researchers from Simon Fraser University and the University of Montreal will present two projects directed at health and transportation planning. * *Join us to hear about:* · What Simon Fraser researchers discovered, and recommend, about the data that is needed and available to bring health into transportation planning processes. · The approach that Montreal researchers have developed, and the data that is needed, to assess the health impacts associated with transportation options in Montreal. *Who should attend? *Professionals in public health, planning and transportation who are interested in weaving health considerations into the transportation planning processes in their communities. *Advisors on Tap:* [image: Description: Description: Description: M Winters] * Meghan Winters* is an Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University. She is an Epidemiologist interested in the link between health, transportation, and city design. [image: Description: Description: Description: A Smargiassi]*Audrey Smargiassi* has a PhD in Environmental Sciences. She is an Associate Professor at the School of Public Health at the University of Montreal. She is a spokesperson for a team of researchers and practitioners from Montreal Public Health, the University of Montreal, and McGill University, including Patrick Morency, Louis Drouin, Céline Plante, Louis-François Tetreault, Sophie Goudreau, Marianne Hatzopoulou and Lise Gauvin. Sarah Prowse Physical Activity Promotion Coordinator 2nd floor - 490 Hargrave Street Winnipeg, MB R3A 0X7 Telephone 204 232 3297 Fax 204 940-2690 Email sprowse(a)wrha.mb.ca Bike racks are available in front of the building at the corner of Hargrave and McDermot. Plan your Winnipeg Transit trip: http://winnipegtransit.com/en/navigo Follow Winnipeg *in motion* on Twitter @wpginmotion Sign up to receive updates from Winnipeg *in motion* @ http://www.winnipeginmotion.ca/signup/ 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. -- *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/>

1 0

FW: Review - cross Canada education materials
by Dave Elmore 18 Apr '14

18 Apr '14

Might be an interesting study to look at if anyone can get access to the full document. See link below. Thanks Dave o _ ( \ _ (X)\ /(X) From: Jason Carter [mailto:JCARTER@wcb.mb.ca] Sent: April-15-14 11:50 AM To: Dave Elmore Subject: Review - cross Canada education materials Hi Not that this helps because it's not a full text article that's free - but someone you know may be able to get it from a University system. J. http://trb.metapress.com/content/t92w3053n0582850/?genre=article <http://trb.metapress.com/content/t92w3053n0582850/?genre=article&id=doi%3a1 0.3141%2f2387-05> &id=doi%3a10.3141%2f2387-05

2 1

Ontario Cycling Action Plan
by Beth McKechnie 18 Apr '14

18 Apr '14

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> To: "at-network-bounces(a)lists.umanitoba.ca" < at-network-bounces(a)lists.umanitoba.ca>, Mark Cohoe <mcohoe(a)casch.com>, Anders Swanson <andersswanson(a)gmail.com>, jlukes <jlukes(a)shaw.ca> Cc: Date: Thu, 17 Apr 2014 12:03:15 -0500 Subject: Ontario Cycling Action Plan " Quick Facts - Since 2010, Ontario has added 112 kilometres of paved shoulders along provincial highways. - Ontario has introduced legislation to improve cycling safety. If passed, it would require motorists to maintain a distance of at least one metre while passing cyclists and introduce harsher penalties for dooring. - In 2010, two million Canadian visitors spent $391 million while cycling in Ontario -- an 18 per cent increase over the previous year. - According to the Canadian Medical Association, a 10 per cent increase<http://policybase.cma.ca/dbtw-wpd/Policypdf/PD09-04.pdf>in physical activity could reduce direct health care expenditures by $150 million a year. - Ontario has the second-lowest cycling injury rate of all Canadian provinces." http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/pubs/cycling/index.shtml http://news.ontario.ca/mto/en/2014/04/province-building-cycling-infrastruct… -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

1 0

Winnipeg neighbourhood in the Top Ten for cycling accross canada for cycling.
by Anders Swanson 17 Apr '14

17 Apr '14

The article also has some interesting things to say about Winnipeg's potential overall. Check it out: http://www.cityclock.org/10-neighbourhoods-highest-levels-cycling-work-cana…

1 0

Pedestrian and Cycling Strategies - Input opportunity!
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 17 Apr '14

17 Apr '14

For those who may have missed the pedestrian and cycling strategies open houses over the last week, you can check out the boards and offer input until the end of next week (April 25th). http://www.winnipeg.ca/publicworks/MajorProjects/ActiveTransportation/WalkB… -- *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/>

1 0

4 Fascinating Facts about Bicycling and Walking
by Beth McKechnie 16 Apr '14

16 Apr '14

Dear friend, How does your state stack up on bicycling and walking? Today, we are releasing *Bicycling and Walking in the United States: 2014 Benchmarking Report*, a massive compendium of data on bicycling and walking in all 50 states, the 52 largest U.S. cities, and a select number of midsized cities. The Alliance produces the Benchmarking Report every two years in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Healthy Community Design Initiative. The report comprehensively examines bicycling and walking transportation across the U.S. and how these trends relate to public health, safety, and social and economic well being. There's a TON of really fascinating data in this year's Alliance Benchmarking Report. See for yourself: download the 2014 Benchmarking Report.<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018mgUXQ5cNJhaCBFrkAHXPo0JfPeZiG-AnC5lEMdPV8KI…> <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018mgUXQ5cNJhaCBFrkAHXPo0JfPeZiG-AnC5lEMdPV8KI…> For a sneak peek, check out four of the most fascinating facts from the report below. *1. We're seeing small but steady increases in the number of people biking and walking to work.* The average large American city experienced a 5.9% increase in population from 2000 to 2010 without comparable increases in land mass, and budgets are tight across the board. Both of these factors point to a need to find cost-effective modes of transportation that move people without taking up more space. *2. There are lower bicyclist and pedestrian fatalities where there are more people are biking and walking.* There is safety in numbers. In the graph below, orange dots represent pedestrian fatality rates -- i.e., the number of people who have died while walking as a portion of the number of people who walk to work. The grey line indicates the percentage of the population who bikes to work, and the green line shows correlation between the two. *3. More people tend to bike or walk to work when a city has strong biking and walking advocacy. * In 1996, there were just a handful of state and local biking and walking advocacy organizations and only 10 full time staff working on these issues. Now, there are over 230 state and local biking and walking advocacy groups and over 500 full time staff. A growing number of concerned citizens are organizing for safer, more accessible streets for walking and bicycling. And there is a positive correlation between the number of people who bike and walk to work in a city and the incomes and staff sizes of those cities' biking & walking advocacy organizations: *4. A large percentage of commuters bike and walk to work in Alaska, Oregon, Montana, New York, and Vermont. * Not so much in South Carolina, Atlanta, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. Here's a map of bicycling and walking levels by state across the country: Think this is interesting? Download your copy of the 2014 Benchmarking Report here.<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018mgUXQ5cNJhaCBFrkAHXPo0JfPeZiG-AnC5lEMdPV8KI…> <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0018mgUXQ5cNJhaCBFrkAHXPo0JfPeZiG-AnC5lEMdPV8KI…> Best, Mary Lauran Hall Communications Director <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&m=001fVXok0jsw3t7yu4AtMBC1w%3D%3…> <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_Basic_209> This email was sent to beth(a)greenactioncentre.ca by info(a)peoplepoweredmovement.org | Update Profile/Email Address<http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=oo&m=001fVXok0jsw3t7yu4AtMBC1w%3D%3…> | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe<http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&m=001fVXok0jsw3t7yu4AtMBC1w%3D%3…>(tm) | Privacy Policy <http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp>. Alliance for Biking & Walking | PO Box 65150 | Washington | DC | 20035

1 0

Motor Vehicle-Pedestrian Collisions and Walking to School: The Role of the Built Environment
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 16 Apr '14

16 Apr '14

Motor Vehicle-Pedestrian Collisions and Walking to School: The Role of the Built Environment http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2014/04/02/peds.2013-23… CONCLUSIONS: Pedestrian collisions are more strongly associated with built environment features than with proportions walking. Road design features were related to higher collision rates and warrant further examination for their safety effects for children. Future policy designed to increase children's active transportation should be developed from evidence that more clearly addresses child pedestrian safety. ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Michael Haynes <activetransportation(a)rogers.com> Date: 15 April 2014 17:46 Subject: Active Transportation Canada - New Listings: April 15, 2014 To: Winter is behind us (Let us hope), and the worlds of cycling and walking are becoming more active with the warmer weather. Since the last notice, in March, links to more than 100 new articles that have been posted on Active Transportation-Canada. You probably will not have time to read more than a few, so here are some recommendations: 1. Toronto Star - Ontario commits $25M for cycling infrastructure<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/toronto-star-ontario…> 2. Want a Healthier City? Prescribe Biking<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/want-healthier-city-…> 3. Ontario Planners Push for 'Active Transportation'<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/ontario-planners-pus…> 4. Motor Vehicle-Pedestrian Collisions and Walking to School: The Role of the Built Environment - Study<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/motor-vehicle-pedest…> 5. Report - Has Motorization in the U.S. Peaked?<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/report-has-motorizat…> 6. Copenhagen - Is Cycling Up or Down or What?<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/copenhagen-is-cyclin…> 7. Popularity of wheelchair skateboarding is on a roll<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/popularity-of-wheelc…> 8. 48 Madcap Hours in the Life of Citi Bike<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/48-madcap-hours-in-l…> 9. Will a World of Driverless Cars Be Heaven or Hell?<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/will-world-of-driver…> 10. Calgary - Wrong Track for Calgary Cycle Tracks<http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/2014/04/calgary-wrong-track-…> But if you have some time, just visit the home page and explore for yourself: http://activetransportation-canada.blogspot.ca/. If you are interested in Active Transportation isssues, I suspect you will find something worthwhile among the nearly 3,000 items that have been posted. Michael Haynes Director TransActive Solutions -- *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/>

1 0

Take a stroll through the city - Jane's Walks about community talks
by Beth McKechnie 15 Apr '14

15 Apr '14

Take a stroll through the cityJane's Walks about community talks THE eighth annual Jane's Walk is back -- this time with more than a dozen guided walks throughout fascinating areas of Winnipeg. Jane's Walk celebrates the ideas and legacy of Jane Jacobs -- a celebrated urbanist and activist whose writings championed a fresh, community-based approach to building walkable and vibrant cites. Free walking tours held on the first weekend of May each year are led by locals who want to create a space for residents to talk about what matters to them in the places they live and work. The first Jane's Walk was organized in Toronto eight years ago and it has since spread to cites across Canada, the United States and worldwide. Community members with a passion for urban issues and local history volunteer to organize a walking tour in their neighbourhood exploring an interesting aspect of the lived urban experience. Jane's Walks are about community conversations. Walks confirmed for this year include: - Neighbourhoods Change: Exploring North Point Douglas. Join longtime North Point Douglas tour guide Rob Galston as he highlights important landmarks, sites, personalities and historic events that have given shape to one of Winnipeg's most historic, fascinatng and resilient neighbourhoods. - Explore the forgotten history of Victoria Park, the main gathering place for strikers during the 1919 General Strike in Sandy Gesslar's History and Heroes: Victoria Park and Winnipeg General Strike. - Join Tricia Wasney, manager of the Winnipeg Arts Council's Public Art Program, for an inspiring tour of the public art you walk by every day. - Over Under Sideways Down: Downtown! invites you to explore one of the most fascinating urban centres in Canada. Veteran Jane's Walk leader Rob Shaw presents an eclectic walk looking at "old gems" and new trends in downtown street design and residential development. - What can one street tell you about the changing face of a neighbourhood? On Our Way, West Broadway invites you to join Choi Ho as she walks a short stretch of Spence Street. A complete list of walks is published on www.janeswalk.org/canada/winnipeg. Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition April 14, 2014 A10

1 0

Chamber of Commerce BOLD Conference Idea: Creating a Year-Round Active Transportation Network
by Anders Swanson 14 Apr '14

14 Apr '14

*[Even though it is extremely unlikely there is someone on this list that is still interested in hearing me expound on ideas related to active transportation, t**he organizers asked me to pass it along and it's a worthwhile event, so I am. Details below. **- Anders]* On April 22 I am presenting my BOLD idea for Winnipeg at The Chamber’s half-day BOLD Conference—I encourage you to come out and do the same. The BOLD movement is all about bringing people together and thinking outside the box. Please consider joining the discussion Tuesday, April 22 from 7:30 am – 1:30 pm at The Met. The morning’s three panels focus on: 1. Creating community 2. Encouraging creativation (creativity, innovation and inspiration) 3. Looking ahead to what aspects will define Winnipeg over the next 100 years The event’s keynote speakers include *Gail Stephens* (Chief Operations Officer, CMHR) and *Hon. Kevin Chief*, Minister responsible for relations with the City of Winnipeg, Minister for Children and Youth Opportunities. For more information and to purchase tickets: http://www.winnipeg-chamber.com/events/BOLD-Winnipeg-Conference-56937/detai… I hope to see you there. *Details:* Half-day BOLD Conference Tuesday, April 22, 2014 7:30 AM - 1:30 PM The MET 281 Donald St. Tickets are $75 + GST and include breakfast, coffee, and lunch. Click here<http://www.winnipeg-chamber.com/events/BOLD-Winnipeg-Conference-56937/detai…> to get your tickets. [image: photo BOLDconferenceApril22-e-ad_zpsf78d5b37.jpg]<http://www.winnipeg-chamber.com/events/BOLD-Winnipeg-Conference-56937/detai…>

1 0

WFP: Bike, sidewalk plan under public scrutiny (Apr.13'14)
by Beth McKechnie 13 Apr '14

13 Apr '14

Bike, sidewalk plan under public scrutiny Some progress but more needed: backers By: Carol Sanders http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/bike-sidewalk-plan-under-public-scru… With freezing rain and an unwelcome dump of snow, Saturday wasn't a great day for Winnipeg cyclists or walkers. But that didn't stop them from packing an open house at The Forks to get the lay of the land on the city's proposed bike and sidewalk strategies. Visitors to the Manitoba Theatre for Young People were asked for their feedback on City of Winnipeg plans to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. The Pedestrian and Cycling Strategies spring from the city's 2011 transportation master plan. It calls for continuous improvements to Winnipeg's cycling network and making walking a more attractive choice. Plans for active transportation have come a long way in a short time, said Mark Cohoe, a cycling advocate who started out with Bike to the Future. The citizens group began in 2006 and quickly gained traction, pushing for better bike routes in Winnipeg. "It's like night and day," Cohoe said Saturday at the Walk Bike Winnipeg open house, where he represented the stakeholders' committee. He's seen the budget for sidewalks and bike routes go from just $250,000 in 2006 to more than $3 million today, resulting in more people walking and riding around the city. "The number of cyclists we're seeing is a great return on investment." More and better trails for cyclists will get more people riding bikes and result in a healthier population, said Nick Humniski. The second-year medical student said he's studying what deters Winnipeggers from cycling and its health benefits. The avid cyclist said he's ridden bikes in other cities, including Vancouver. "It has amazing bike infrastructure." Its dedicated bike lanes aren't just white lines painted on the road. "They're separated from the road and safer," Humniski said. There are bike traffic signals plus a lot of people riding bikes in Vancouver, and there's safety in numbers, he said. In Winnipeg, he gets the sense cyclists feel "second-rate." Bike routes will end suddenly, for example, he said. The one he follows from the Corydon Avenue area to classes at Health Sciences Centre ends abruptly on Sherbrook Street at Notre Dame Avenue. At rush hour, he's left feeling pretty vulnerable on his bike in the high-traffic area, he said. "There's no protection," said Humniski, who has been hit by vehicles twice on his bike but was not seriously hurt. Police are happy to see more bike trails and pedestrian paths and remind both cyclists and pedestrians to look out for each other. "Entering spring, there are a lot more people out these days," said Winnipeg police spokesman Const. Jason Michalyshen. A common concern police hear is from the elderly and disabled who say they're being hit or jostled by bikes riding on sidewalks. Kids' bikes are OK but bigger bikes are supposed to be on the road, he said. "These are shared spaces," said Michalyshen. "We need to be courteous to one another and know what our responsibilities are." carol.sanders(a)freepress.mb.ca *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition April 13, 2014 A3* ** * * * ** Also some positive coverage in the Winnipeg Sun! (just don't wade into the comments) http://www.winnipegsun.com/2014/04/12/winnipeggers-get-glimpse-of-cyclist-s…

1 0

WFP: Advocates hail new bike lane on Sherbrook - Will separate traffic from bicycles (Apr.11'14)
by Beth McKechnie 11 Apr '14

11 Apr '14

Advocates hail new bike lane on SherbrookWill separate traffic from bicycles <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Adam Wazny http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/advocates-hail-new-bike-lane-on-sher… <http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/800*730/5802799.jpg> Enlarge Image<http://media.winnipegfreepress.com/images/800*730/5802799.jpg> OPEN HOUSES TO TALK BICYCLING Starting Saturday, the city is holding a number of open houses to discuss pedestrian and cycling strategies. A review of draft recommendations that will shape the city's active transportation plan is scheduled, including how recent changes to the bike lane/walking trail infrastructure will co-exist with future projects. Saturday's open house goes from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Manitoba Theatre for Young People. Two separate public forums are scheduled for Tuesday (April 15); one at Manitoba Hydro Place atrium and the other at the Sinclair Park Community Centre. Both are open from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. A new bike lane appears to have Winnipeg on the right track. Earlier this week, the city announced plans to construct a new dedicated bike lane on Sherbrook Street running north from the Maryland Bridge to Cumberland Avenue. Part of this lane includes a parking-protected section for cyclists, a stretch of lane that will feature a row of parked cars serving as a physical divide between riders and traffic. The protected section of the lane, which should open to cyclists this summer, is widely considered a trial project for lanes of this kind in the city. The premise has city cycling advocates excited for what the future could hold for those interested in getting around on two wheels. 'We've been pushing for something like this, whether it's a separated cycle track or a protected bike lane, for a long time' -- Bike Winnipeg executive director Mark Cohoe "We've been pushing for something like this, whether it's a separated cycle track or a protected bike lane, for a long time," Bike Winnipeg executive director Mark Cohoe said Thursday. "We've been working with the city on Sherbrook since 2010 so we're excited to see it's coming through. "We hope this is the start of more improvements to the bike infrastructure in the city. One of the biggest fears we hear from cyclists is that fear of traffic and having to mix in between the traffic. This project will be worth the wait." The new lane will be split into three sections. The parking-protected stage will run from Wolseley Avenue to Broadway, on the right side of the one-way street. Cyclists will ride between the parked cars (which will now be 24-hour parking) and the sidewalk, with some curb bump-outs to alert motorists of the bike lane when parking. Unlike the wider bike lanes and sidewalk ramps on Pembina Highway (between Chevrier Boulevard and Plaza Drive), which continue to create confusion between cyclists and pedestrians, Winnipeg Transit users will find the new bike lane environment on Sherbrook a little easier to navigate. Bicycles will stay on the street, Cohoe said. The second section (from Broadway to Ellice Avenue) will be a wider, clearly marked lane to the left of the parked cars adjacent to traffic. Between Ellice and Cumberland avenues, the lane will slide up against the curb on the right side of the street, similar to the bike lane that runs along Maryland Street in the other direction. The city has indicated two white painted lines on the roadway will provide more navigation room for cyclists travelling along Sherbrook. "It will have a little more buffer to it, a little more space," Cohoe said. Cohoe said the existing width of Sherbrook is the biggest reason the project is going ahead, as retrofitting proper bike lanes into the current city layout on the cheap is proving to be a challenge for active transportation hopefuls. "We're going to continue to push to get a little more width in some spaces, but this is a good first step," he said. adam.wazny(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition April 11, 2014 A7

1 0

Montreal this Summer? --> Bike lab 2014
by Anders Swanson 10 Apr '14

10 Apr '14

Hello, Passing along an opportunity to all of you local bike/pedestrian-inclined planners/engineers....some of whom may have seen Bartek and JF's respective presentations this February (or remember Marc's back in 2009). If you plan to be anywhere near La Belle Province this June - or want to - you may want to have a look at this info on Bike Lab Montreal 2014: http://www.velo.qc.ca/en/event/bikelabmtl-home A trip to Canada/Quebec's most beautiful, exciting and bike-friendly city is never wasted - no matter your reason - but especially with the chance to learn from the pioneers, experience the Tour de L'Ile first-hand and meet all kinds of people as you take part in an intensive 2-day design workshop. Cheers, Anders

1 0

AT webinar: Public Health Benefits of AT, Wed, Apr 16, 2-3pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 10 Apr '14

10 Apr '14

Green Action Centre and Bike Winnipeg invite you to join us for a local viewing of the following APBP webinar at the EcoCentre (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave). This will be followed by group discussion of local applications. Description provided below. RSVPs appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth (204) 925-3772 ** * * * ** *Public Health Benefits of Active Transportation* *Wednesday, April 16, 2014 | 2:00-3:00 pm Central* Active transportation creates important opportunities for routine physical activity. Effective collaboration between public health and active transportation can strengthen projects with better results for all residents, including children, senior citizens, people with disabilities, and low-income families. By understanding the impact of different types of interventions on the behavior of drivers and pedestrians, transportation professionals can create and construct designs that meet community goals. This webinar looks at case studies in Charlotte, N.C. and Columbia, Missouri, where changes to the streetscape were studied for their effects on physical activity and social interactions. The interventions include replacing a pedestrian bridge with an at-grade, signalized crossing; and modifying the streetscape and street profile with landscaping, narrower driving lanes and additional bike lanes. Presenters also suggest techniques for breaking down professional silos and engaging transportation, public health and research professionals in a collaborative study and design process. *Presenters:* - Ian Thomas, PhD, Board of Directors, America Walks - Dwane Jones, PhD, Director of the Center for Sustainable Development, University of the District of Columbia

1 0

WFP: City studying more sidewalk clearing around schools (Apr.9'14)
by Beth McKechnie 09 Apr '14

09 Apr '14

City studying more sidewalk clearing around schools <http://greenactioncentre.ca/support/become-a-member/> By: Nick Martin http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/city-studying-more-sidewalk-clearing… The city could clear every sidewalk around every school in Winnipeg right after a snowfall next winter. But it will require city council to approve a major policy change at a significant but unknown cost this summer, right before October's municipal election. "We'd be looking at the impact of making the sidewalks around schools priority 1 or priority 2," said Jim Berezowsky, the city's manager of street maintenance. "The expectation is they want it to be done the first day." Pembina Trails School Division raised alarms earlier this winter when the city was considering reducing snow-clearing operations on residential streets. Berezowsky said that prompted the city to re-examine its snow-clearing policies, particularly on sidewalks around school properties. The city has three priority levels for sidewalks, he said. Depending on how major the roadway in front of a school, the front-entrance sidewalk and school-bus loading zone would currently be cleared in the first or second wave of operations. But most schools have the vast majority of their property, including school fields, along residential side streets, and those sidewalks along school property have been a third-level priority. That could change next winter, but it would mean buying more sidewalk snow-clearing machines and hiring people to operate them, Berezowsky said. He said the city clears sidewalks after five centimetres of snowfall. "It's going to be an increased cost to the city. As a policy decision, it would still have to go to council" after staff finishes their study and report back sometime this summer. It's a matter of safety, Berezowsky said. Most families drive their kids to school, but they'd let them off earlier if the kids could walk safely the rest of the way, he said. "It's because of the amount of traffic that picks up and drops off kids. They want to be able to drop them off farther away." He wrote Pembina Trails school board chairman David Johnson the city's decision will be announced in August. Berezowsky replied to the division's letter to Mayor Sam Katz "regarding priority concerns of snow clearing in and around schools within the Pembina Trails School Division. Previous discussions with school divisions appeared to be centred solely around residential streets for the priority enhancements during winter months," Berezowsky said. "Sidewalks never appeared to be a consideration during those previous talks. We will definitely analyze sidewalk clearing in conjunction with the street-service priority given in the winter months to the various schools. "I will provide you with an update in August 2014 on the status of sidewalks as they pertain to the winter enhanced service in and around schools," he wrote. Pembina Trails superintendent Ted Fransen was delighted. "We're very pleased to hear the city is taking our concerns seriously," Fransen said. nick.martin(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition April 9, 2014 B1

1 0

Active & Green: Cashengers, Got Potholes?, Commuter Challenge is Back!, Bike Blender Rental
by Beth McKechnie 09 Apr '14

09 Apr '14

Hope you enjoy the latest issue of Active & Green! Check out past issues or subscribe here <http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/active-green/>. Please share widely - thanks. Email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser.<http://us2.campaign-archive2.com/?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3f55cc&id=f3af20966b…> *Looking to improve commuter options at your workplace?* Request resources<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>on cycling, carpooling, commuting surveys and tracking progress, among others. Book a presentation<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>on creating a commuter friendly workplace, greening the workplace, and more. Rent our bike-powered blender<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>for your next workplace event -- always a hit! RRC Sustainability staff blend up some fun ------------------------------ *Upcoming Events* Pedestrian & Cycling Strategies Open Houses<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> April 12 & 15, 2014 Precautionary Principle - The Nicole Bruinsma Story<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> April 22, 2014 Earth Day - Winnipeg premiere Film screening & panel Earth Day at Fort Whyte<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> April 27, 2014 City Cycling for Beginners<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> May 3, 2014 Jane's Walks<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> May 3-4, 2014 City Cycling for Commuters<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> May 10, 2014 Commuter Challenge Week<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> June 1-7, 2014 Bike Week<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> June 16-22, 2014 ------------------------------ *10-minute walk* Where can you walk to within 1km in your neighbourhood? 31 restaurants 18 grocery stores 7 schools 14 shops 0 restaurants 1 grocery store 0 schools 0 shops *"Ca$hengers": What's fair? * When you're starting up a carpool with co-workers or others, it can be tricky (or even awkward) figuring out how to split costs. Sound familiar? Try these online tools and apps to help determine a fair fare<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>. If you already carpool, how did you<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> decide on the amount? *Open Houses - April 12 & 15 * Plan to attend one of the upcoming Open Houses<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> on walking and cycling in Winnipeg - this Saturday, April 12, or Tuesday, April 15. Come hear about the draft city-wide bicycle and pedestrian network as well as recommendations for new policies related to Active Transportation. Guaranteed to be way more interesting than it sounds! *Calling all wanna-cyclists* Looking to dust off your bike and try riding again? Maybe you're thinking about starting to cycle to work or school? Sign up for a hands-on-the-handlebars workshop with a CAN-BIKE certified instructor. Two courses are available through the Leisure Guide: City Cycling for Beginners<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>on Saturday, May 3rd, and City Cycling for Commuters<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>on Saturday, May 10th. *Commuter Challenge is back!* It's time to register your workplace<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>for the Commuter Challenge! This annual friendly competition encourages you and your co-workers to walk, run, cycle, bus, carpool, paddle, in-line skate or skateboard to work. Sign up for fun, for your health, for the environment -- not to mention a chance to win some amazing prizes. *Got potholes? * Explore some creative uses for potholes in this fun series of photographs<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> from around North America. *Open call: Jane's Walk 2014* Do you have an idea for a fun, informative, unusual way of looking at your city and neighbourhood? Jane's Walk<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>wants you to organize a walk in your community! *Winter is back (just kidding)* If you missed the International Winter Cycling Congress in February, don't fret. Check out the video<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…>, conference photos<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…> and presentations<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a…>from this Winnipeg event. You are receiving this email because you are an Active & Green subscriber. Unsubscribe<http://greenactioncentre.us2.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a1…> beth(a)greenactioncentre.ca 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) 2014 Green Action Centre All rights reserved. Forward<http://us2.forward-to-friend2.com/forward?u=af15a2f9f91ef9a183a3f55cc&id=f3…>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…>

1 0

Vote The WRENCH
by Rivers West 08 Apr '14

08 Apr '14

Hi everyone, The WRENCH has been nominated for the MTS Future First Community Grant. Help them win $ 10,000 by voting now! http://www.mts.ca/mts/future+first/grants#poll Have a good day! -- *Sylvie Fouasse* Rivers West info(a)riverswest.ca (204) 925-2320 ext 108

1 0

Fwd: Call for Nominations: Energy Efficiency or Active / Sustainable Transportation Behavior Change Case Studies (for peer-selection by Tools of Change Landmark panels)
by Jackie Avent (ASRTS) 08 Apr '14

08 Apr '14

FYI: Tools of Change is soliciting nominations for its 2014 *Landmark* behavior change case studies in two topic areas - (1) home / building energy conservation and (2) sustainable transportation. If you know of anyone working on a particularly effective or innovative approach for changing energy or transportation behaviors, please consider nominating them - or yourself. All nominations must include measured impact results. ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Jay Kassirer <kassirer(a)toolsofchange.com> Date: 1 April 2014 08:29 Subject: Call for Nominations: Energy Efficiency or Active / Sustainable Transportation Behavior Change Case Studies (for peer-selection by Tools of Change Landmark panels) To: asrts(a)greenactioncentre.ca Having trouble viewing this email? Click here <http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=nmzyc7n6&v=001PSxIp8rnBc…> You are receiving this email from Tools of Change because you subscribed to our newsletter mailing list or recently participated in one of our webinars or workshops. You may unsubscribe<http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=001EBMcLcbjBgc3FB4imj3Nmcawz…>if you no longer wish to receive our emails. *Call for Nominations* *Landmark Behavior Change Case Studies(Energy Efficiency and Active / Sustainable Transportation)* [image: Tools of Change social marketing toolkit] *Quick Links* *Tools of Change Website <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uQTNpmC1GtXmLtw36L0tumL7G_rAKg5a6yqWZubWt6DQ…>* *More On Us <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uQTNpmC1GtVZKAS2uAEz1uHKsELMdervJcax1x51DV_9…>* *Join Our List* [image: Join Our Mailing List]<http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/email.jsp?m=1011333490061> *Sponsors* We are pleased to acknowledge the generous contributions of the following sponsors: *Government of Canada* Health Canada Natural Resources Canada Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Transport Canada Federation of Canadian Municipalities National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy Suncor *About Us* Tools of Change promotes best practices in social marketing and a healthier, more sustainable future. Our social marketing website was awarded the Society of Environmental Journalists' highest rating as an information source for environmental journalists, and is recognized by the Infography as one of six superlative references on social marketing. We also host a wide range of webinars on health, environment and safety issues. More about us<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uQTNpmC1GtWBhPSHFkozpDeNgwnq_jNXwXlRKHbsJGx-…> * For immediate Release - March 31,** 2014* *Dear Jackie,* *For Immediate Release. MS Word copies of media release and backgrounder are at *www.toolsofchange.com/en/landmark/<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uQTNpmC1GtXXbOcWov5auXNnQ-E0pVZTDSpRjkvnTDuL…> Tools of Change is soliciting nominations for its 2014 *Landmark* behavior change case studies in two topic areas - (1) home / building energy conservation and (2) sustainable transportation. If you know of anyone working on a particularly effective or innovative approach for changing energy or transportation behaviors, please consider nominating them - or yourself. All nominations must include measured impact results. Designation as a "*Landmark*" (best practice) case study through this peer selection process recognizes behavior change programs and approaches considered to be among the most successful, innovative, replicable and adaptable in the world. Designated programs gain exposure, credibility and free, on-line program case study materials, which may make it easier for them to attract clients and maintain or increase program funding. Nominations are screened by Tools of Change staff and then the most promising are rated by peer selection panels based on a standard scoring grid. Designated programs are highlighted in our webinars, the webinar transcripts and video recordings, and written case studies. Program organizers get a *Landmark* designation logo for use on websites and in electronic newsletters, providing click-through access to the program's case study materials. The nomination form, which can be downloaded from www.toolsofchange.com/en/landmark/<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uQTNpmC1GtXXbOcWov5auXNnQ-E0pVZTDSpRjkvnTDuL…>, must be submitted by May 30, 2014. Designations will be announced by October 2014, and case study webinars will be presented between January and May 2015. To view *Landmark* case studies designated in past years, go to www.toolsofchange.com/en/landmark/<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001uQTNpmC1GtXXbOcWov5auXNnQ-E0pVZTDSpRjkvnTDuL…> Help us spread the news. If you know of others who might be interested, forward this to them. If you are a media writer or editor, tell this story. [image: Gray]<http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?m=1011333490061&a=1116968716600&e…> Jay Kassirer, General Manager, Tools of Change *Backgrounder* *About Tools of Change * *Tools of Change* was launched in January, 2000 as a collaborative effort between Cullbridge(tm) and such partners as the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Health Canada, Natural Resources Canada, the International Institute for Sustainable Development, Environment Canada, and Canada's National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy. Founded on the principles of community-based social marketing, *Tools of Change* engages program planners and facilitators from around the world to share and learn from their collective experiences. Its mandate is to build the capacity for planning and implementing more successful health, safety and environmental promotion programs. The *Tools of Change* website, sections of which are based on a workbook co-authored by Jay Kassirer and Doug McKenzie-Mohr, currently hosts about 130 full-length case studies. An impact evaluation of site users found that most returned to the site many times, had improved their programs as a result, and had used the site to help explain and justify their ideas to colleagues and decision makers. Many had replicated ideas found on the site. The website was awarded the Society of Environmental Journalists' highest rating as an information source for environmental journalists, and was recognized by the Infography as one of six superlative references on social marketing. *Recent Landmark Designations * The following are some recent examples of programs that have been designated. Home / Building Energy: - *Class 5 Energy*'s comprehensive, long-term approach combines education, training, behavior change and goal setting with progress tracking, recognition, continuous improvement and social media, to reduce energy use in schools, hospitals and other institutional settings. Over eight years in the program, Cambridge-Isanti Public School district reduced energy use per person by about 36% and saved $2.6 million in energy costs. Designated in 2013. - *City of Burlington's Ice Rink Competition* employs a low-cost community-based social marketing approach to significantly reduce energy consumption, associated greenhouse gases and energy costs. With a program return on investment of more than 96%, it shows the substantive impacts that behavioral change programs can have over and above retrofits. The results are based on actual utility bills. The approach is applicable to any high energy consuming asset (facilities and buildings, vehicle fleet) and is scalable. It successfully modified entrenched, long standing staff behaviour towards the desired energy conservation behaviors, improved facility performance, and extended equipment life cycle - all without sacrificing facility service levels and user satisfaction. Designated in 2013. - *Opower* helps individual utility companies to send customized home energy use feedback reports to their residential utility customers. The full-colour reports include a comparison with other similar households, offer tips and strategies to reduce energy use, and provide seasonal energy consumption information. The program delivered 400 GWh (400,000,000 kWh) in energy savings over multiple regions in 2011. - BC Hydro's* Power Smart* program is a great example of applying the "loyalty group" approach to progressively engage participants in changing behaviours. Energy savings for FY2010 were estimated at 5.15 GWh (5,150,000 KWh) Sustainable Transportation - *Stockholm's Congestion Pricing* was introduced in 2006 as a "trial", followed by a referendum. The charges reduced traffic across the cordon by 20%, leading to huge congestion reductions all over the city. Perhaps more surprisingly, the initially hostile opinion turned, and the referendum led to permanent reintroduction of congestion charges. The traffic effects have proved persistent in the years since. Designated in 2013. - *CAC's HSBC Clean Air Achievers *program provides youth with a chance to meet high profile athletes and be inspired by personal messages to adopt healthier, more active and sustainable lifestyles. The program has dual goals of reducing air pollution and increasing physical activity levels via active transportation. For the 2011-2012 school year, program participants had a 30.6% average percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and 45.2% average percent increase in active transportation. Designated in 2013. - *Haliburton Communities in Action* is a rare, well-documented model for promoting walking and cycling in a small or rural community. Designated in 2012. - *Portland's Smart Trips Welcome Program.* Portland has refocused its Individualized Marketing efforts and incorporated an innovative and targeted communication strategy to help new residents develop environmentally-friendly and active transportation habits. As a result, the city's new residents took 10% fewer drive-alone trips and the proportion of their trips taken by green and active methods increased by 14%. This comprehensive approach includes a strong evaluation design and targeted social marketing strategies. Designated in 2012. - *Stepping It Up*, led by the regional transportation authority Metrolinx, illustrates a coordinated, highly replicable, and institutionalized approach for reducing car traffic and increase walking and cycling to school. The program worked with 30 elementary schools in the City of Hamilton and Region of Peel, Ontario. Designated in 2012. - *BIXI Bicycle Sharing*(Montreal) is a great example of how to make urban cycling a more practical and attractive transportation option. BIXI makes it convenient for commuters to cycle rather than drive, especially for frequent, short trips. The system was specifically developed to augment Montreal's existing transit system and between 2009 and 2013 Montrealers made more than 13 million trips with BIXI. It is a turn-key service that is inexpensive and replicable across many countries and cultures. In addition, by making cycling more chic and attractive, BIXI has had a major impact on cycling in North America. Designated in 2011. *Active /Sustainable Transportation Panel, 2013* 2014 will be the seventh year for our peer selection panel for active / sustainable transportation programs. The panel includes members from on-the-ground programs including: - Ryan Lanyon, City of Toronto - Patricia Lucy, Translink It also includes members from some of North America's most proactive consulting, NGO, and government organizations supporting sustainable transportation professionals, including: - Mark Dessauer, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation - Jacky Kennedy, Green Communities Canada - Nathalie Lapointe, Federation of Canadian Municipalities - David Levinger, Mobility Education Foundation - Geoff Noxon, Noxon Associates - Phil Winters, CUTR and the University of South Florida - Chuck Wilsker, U.S. Telework Coalition * Home/ Building Energy Efficiency Panel, 2012 * 2014 will be the fifth year for our peer selection panel for home / building energy efficiency programs. This panel includes members from on-the-ground programs and from some of North America's most proactive NGO and government organizations supporting energy conservation professionals, including: - Arien Korteland, BC Hydro - Devin Causely, Federation of Canadian Municipalities - Doug McKenzie-Mohr, McKenzie-Mohr Associates - Edward Vine, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory - Dan York, IEEE *Help Spread the Word!* Use portions of this newsletter and / or our full case studies in your own newsletters, listservs etc. All we ask is that you include the following short credit: Courtesy of Tools of Change (www.toolofchange.com) which promotes best practices in social marketing and a healthier, more sustainable future. Forward email<http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?llr=nmzyc7n6&m=1011333490061&ea=a…> <http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=001EBMcLcbjBgc3FB4imj3Nmcawz…> <http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_115> This email was sent to asrts(a)greenactioncentre.ca by kassirer(a)toolsofchange.com | Update Profile/Email Address<http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=oo&mse=001EBMcLcbjBgc3FB4imj3Nmcawz…> | Instant removal with SafeUnsubscribe<http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=001EBMcLcbjBgc3FB4imj3Nmcawz…>(tm) | Privacy Policy <http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp>. Tools of Change - Cullbridge Marketing and Communications | 2699 Priscilla Street | Ottawa | Ontario | K2B 7E1 | Canada -- *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/>

1 0

ITDP's Principles of Urban Development
by Beth McKechnie 08 Apr '14

08 Apr '14

TOD Standard The Institute for Transportation and Development Policy has released a report that outlines core principles of urban design, including those that create pedestrian and cycling networks and strong customer bases for public transportation. http://www.trb.org/main/blurbs/170522.aspx ITDP's Principles of Urban Development for transport in urban life: 1. [walk] Develop neighborhoods that promote walking 2. [cycle] Prioritize non-motorized transport networks 3. [connect] Create dense networks of streets and paths 4. [transit] Locate development near high-quality public transport 5. [mix] Plan for mixed use 6. [densify] Optimize density and transit capacity 7. [compact] Create regions with short commutes 8. [shift] Increase mobility by regulating parking and road us

1 0

Your Brain on Bicycling
by Dave Elmore 04 Apr '14

04 Apr '14

http://www.bicycling.com/training-nutrition/training-fitness/your-brain-bicy cling?cm_mmc=Twitter-_-Bicycling-_-Content-Story-_-yourbrain Your Brain on Bicycling It's no secret that cycling makes you fitter. It also sharpens your thinking and melts away stress. Now researchers are discovering why-and exactly how you can maximize the cognitive benefits of a good ride. Every morning Canadian neuroscientist Brian Christie, PhD, gives his brain <http://www.bicycling.com/training-nutrition/training-fitness/mental-trainin g-cyclists> an extra boost. We're not talking about tossing back multiple strong shots of espresso <http://www.bicycling.com/training-nutrition/nutrition-weight-loss/caffeine- alert> or playing one of those mind-training games advertised all over Facebook. "I hop on my bike, go to the gym <http://www.bicycling.com/training-nutrition/training-fitness/gym-etiquette> for 45 minutes, then ride the rest of the way to work," says Christie. "When I get to my desk, my brain is at peak activity for a few hours." After his mental focus sputters to a halt later in the day, he jump-starts it with another short spin to run errands. Ride, work, ride, repeat. It's a scientifically proven system. In a recent study in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, scientists found that people scored higher on tests of memory, reasoning, and planning after 30 minutes of spinning on a stationary bike than they did before they rode. They also completed the tests faster after pedaling. Grow Your Mind Exercise is like fertilizer for your brain. All those hours spent turning your cranks create rich capillary beds not only in your quads and glutes, but also in your gray matter. More blood vessels in your brain and muscles mean more oxygen and nutrients to help them work, says Christie. When you pedal, you also force more nerve cells to fire. As these neurons light up, they intensify the creation of proteins like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and a compound called noggin (yes, really), which promote the formation of new brain cells. The result: You double or triple the production of neurons-literally building your brain, says Christie. You also release neurotransmitters (the messengers between your brain cells) so all those cells, new and old, can communicate with each other for better, faster functioning. This kind of growth is especially important with each passing birthday, because as we age, our brains shrink and those connections weaken. Exercise restores and protects the organ, says Arthur Kramer, PhD, a neuroscientist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. "Our research finds that after only three months, people who exercised had the brain volume of those three years younger," says Kramer, referring to a study that examined the brains of 59 sedentary volunteers between the ages of 60 and 79 who either did an exercise program or were inactive for six months. A bigger, more connected brain simply works better. "Adults who exercise display sharper memory skills, higher concentration levels, more fluid thinking, and greater problem-solving ability than those who are sedentary," says Kramer. Ride Your Way Smarter So if a little exercise boosts your mental acumen, will going longer and harder earn you Mensa membership? Not so much, says Christie. More isn't always better, especially in the short term, he says. The same study that reported brain benefits from a short exercise session also revealed that more intense efforts can temporarily compromise memory and information processing, something Christie has seen firsthand. It's clear that physical activity like cycling boosts production of feel-good chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. Christie's teenage daughter also kicks off her day with exercise-specifically rowing practice, usually with searing interval sets. But instead of leaving her brain firing on all cylinders, the workout leaves her a little stalled out when she arrives at school. "Short term, you're on a U-shaped curve for exercise and mental benefits," says Christie. "Too little and your brain doesn't get what it needs to work optimally. Too much and your body has sapped the glucose and other resources it needs, so it's hindered until it recovers." The sweet spot for sharp mental acuity right after exercise is about 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic riding at roughly 75 percent of your maximum heart rate, or an effort of 7 on a scale of 1 (standing still) to 10 (going all out). Positive Spin Of course, there's a lot more to mental fitness than just improving your smarts. Plenty of science backs the idea that a good ride can also have emotional benefits. Cycling can elevate your mood, relieve anxiety, increase stress resistance, and even banish the blues. "Exercise works as well as psychotherapy and antidepressants in the treatment of depression, maybe better," says James Blumenthal, PhD, professor of behavioral medicine in the department of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. A recent study analyzing 26 years of research finds that even just some exercise-as little as 20 to 30 minutes a day-can prevent depression over the long term. At the moment, scientists don't completely understand the exact mechanisms, but they do know that physical activity like cycling boosts the production of feel-good chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. "As soon as our lab rats start running on their wheels, they get a 100 to 200 percent increase in serotonin levels," says J. David Glass, PhD, a brain-chemistry researcher at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. As you pedal past the 20-to 30-minute mark, other mood-lifting chemicals like endorphins and cannabinoids (which, as the name suggests, are in the same family of chemicals that give pot smokers their high) kick in. When researchers asked 24 men to either run or pedal at a moderate intensity or sit for about 50 minutes, they found high blood levels of anandamide, a natural cannabinoid, in the exercisers, but not in sedentary volunteers. Even better, regularly riding your bike helps keep hormones like adrenaline and cortisol in check, which means you'll feel less stressed and you'll bounce back from anxiety-filled situations more easily. The sweet spot for sharpening mental acuity right after exercise is about 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic riding at roughly 75 percent of your maximum heart rate. Remember: Although it's healthy, exercise itself is a stress, especially when you're just getting started or back into riding. When you first begin to exert yourself, your body releases cortisol to raise your heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels, says Monika Fleshner, PhD, a professor of integrative physiology at the University of Colorado at Boulder. As you get fitter, it takes a longer, harder ride to trigger that same response. "For people who are active, it takes a greater crisis to trigger the cortisol response as compared with sedentary people," says Fleshner. "So now you can go into a stressful environment and be okay. You can endure a lot more before you kick off a stress response." What's the cycling prescription for happiness? The authors of a recent review study on exercise and depression came up with the following guidelines to ward off the blues with aerobic exercise: Do three to five sessions a week. Each session should be 45 to 60 minutes long and keep your heart rate between 50 and 85 percent of your max. Of course, that's just a minimum recommendation aimed at the general public. You can go ahead and ride to your heart's-and mind's-content.

1 0

WFP: Fielding's rapid transit stance on wrong track (Apr.4'14)
by Beth McKechnie 04 Apr '14

04 Apr '14

Fielding's rapid-transit stance on wrong track By: Bartley Kives http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/fieldings-rapid-transit-stance-on-wr… In a mayoral race in which six out of eight potential candidates can be safely described as right of centre, it makes sense for Scott Fielding to try to stand out from the field. The two-term councillor for St. James-Brooklands is positioning himself to be the populist fiscal conservative among a crew of fellow conservatives that either have more elitist trappings or lean closer to the centre. Fielding is no lunch-bucket-carrying everyman. He's a former pharmaceutical sales rep who has interests in a pair of businesses and lives in upper-middle-class Linden Woods. But Scott Fielding's voting record and political philosophy can safely be described as neo-libertarian, even if that's a word he'd never use to describe someone who's in small government and would prefer to see the market provide solutions to public-policy problems. Last week, Fielding was doing his best to prove his populist cred by campaigning against the extension of the Southwest Transitway, the city's first dedicated bus corridor. The 3.6-kilometre first phase of the transitway was completed in 2012 at a cost of $138 million. A seven-kilometre extension to the University of Manitoba comes with a $600-million price tag because it's packaged with two other Fort Garry projects -- a new Jubilee underpass and the Cockburn-Calrossie drain replacement. Fielding, who has never supported rapid transit, launched an online petition that attempts to mine the same anti-elitist sentiment directed against megaprojects such as the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and Investors Group Field. Fielding wants prospective rapid-transit funding to be spent on road repairs instead and urged Winnipeggers to tell "the politicians, insiders at city hall that we need to address infrastructure, make that our No. 1 priority." As far as campaign strategy goes, it's not a bad gambit to gain attention. Mayor Sam Katz, who may or may not be running again, oversaw the construction of the transitway's first phase despite his well-documented ambivalence to rapid transit. Lawyers Gord Steeves and Brian Bowman, who most likely will run, can be painted as members of the political elite by the mere nature of their profession. Only Charleswood-Tuxedo Coun. Paula Havixbeck is also playing the populist card, though she's also courting union support for her potential mayoral run. Fielding's anti-rapid-transit position, however, runs the risk of driving away potential supporters across the political spectrum who may have seen him as a safe place to park their votes. Although he only garnered support of six per cent of Winnipeggers in the two mayoral-race polls to date, Fielding has room to grow because he has been strong on ethical reform at city hall and chose to break ranks with Katz. His rapid-transit hate-on, however, is a bad move in the long run, as the roads-not-transit argument fails to stand up to logical scrutiny. Winnipeg suffers from inadequate infrastructure because it's too spread out. The lack of density in this city requires too much money to be shovelled into road, sewer and water-main maintenance. And as any student of Winnipeg's recent history can tell you, one of the main contributors to this lack of density is the absence of a rapid-transit network. Winnipeg began pondering rapid transit in the 1950s and '60s, around the same time Toronto and Montreal started building subways. Decades of dithering allowed Winnipeg to be lapped by Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary and Ottawa, which pursued various permutations of light rail, subways and dedicated bus corridors. Development along transit lines and transit-station nodes has improved density in all of these cities. But Winnipeg kept on building roads and focusing on single-family-home development, with disastrous results. This city has started to improve density through modest means, such as insisting on smaller lot sizes for single-family homes and demanding more multi-family housing in new suburbs. But we are desperate for more rapid transit to promote real density. Without mass transit, you cannot build up instead of out. And if you build out instead of up, you cannot afford your roads. What Fielding is promoting spells disaster for Winnipeg. He's selling the promise of better roads when in fact the best way to do so would be to invest in transit. Fielding's ethics are unimpeachable. He is polite and appears popular with the constituents in his ward. But Winnipeg has waited too long for not just the Southwest Transitway, but a full network of transit corridors to endure another rapid-transit debate. Six decades is long enough. bartley.kives(a)freepress.mb.ca Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition April 4, 2014 B1

1 0

The Uniter: Breaking down barricades
by Beth McKechnie 03 Apr '14

03 Apr '14

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> Date: Thu, 3 Apr 2014 10:18:07 -0500 Subject: The U of W Uniter - Breaking Down Barricades http://uniter.ca/view/breaking-down-barricades "I replaced driving with a ten-minute walking commute. The psychological differences between driving through an environment and physically interacting with it on the ground cannot be understated. I now walk downtown with the familiarity everyone else has with their own cul-de-sacs. The normalization of this type of interaction with the city on a daily basis gives you a different appreciation of not only its buildings and its people, but also what it sorely lacks: people living there...." "And herein lies the toxic heart of how urban Winnipeg is approached: for serving the suburban population. And for the suburban population there must be suburban entities. Maybe we knew that already, but in exiling myself from suburban life, it took on a new level of understanding. It sunk in...." -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

1 0