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AT webinar: Dynamics of Effective Advisory Committees - Wed, Mar 20th, 2-3 pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 14 Mar '13

14 Mar '13

Green Action Centre and Bike to the Future 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.* *Detailed description provided below. *Dynamics of Effective Advisory Committees Wednesday, March 20th | 2:00-3:00 p.m. CDT* RSVPs are appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! Also mark your calendar for an additional webinar on Wed, March 27th, 2-3:30 pm – Women's Work: Bicycle Friendly Communities by Design. More info to follow next week. cheers, Beth 925-3772 * * * * * ** Dynamics of Effective Advisory Committees Wednesday, March 20 | 2:00 to 3:00 pm CDT Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Committees are critical to making bicycling and walking part of the transportation solution because they add transparency and community engagement to the planning process. This webinar offers guidance about committee structure, defines roles, and suggests techniques and training to make a group more effective. Case study examples balance the perspectives of staff and advocates, bicycle and pedestrian focus, and regional and local committees. Presenters from the Nashville (Tennessee) MPO and the City of Olympia, Washington, will discuss their committees’ major initiatives and how productive, long-term working groups achieved significant, measurable outcomes. The Nashville Area MPO assisted in developing a regional bicycle and pedestrian study and an award-winning regional transportation plan. As a result of this work, the group was tasked to develop scoring and make funding recommendations related to bike/ped projects. The City of Olympia's Advisory Committee has successfully focused on improving the pedestrian realm through its involvement with a far-reaching sidewalk funding initiative, a pedestrian crossing improvement program, the redesign of the 4th Avenue bridge, and an innovative neighborhood pathways program. Presenters: Darren Flusche, Policy Director, League of American Bicyclists Leslie Meehan, Director of Healthy Communities, Nashville Area MPO David Kleinfelter, President, Walk/Bike Nashville Sophie Stimson, Senior Transportation Planner, City of Olympia

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Canada failing cyclists and pedestrians, U.N. report finds
by Dave Elmore 14 Mar '13

14 Mar '13

http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/03/14/canada_failing_cyclists_and_pedes trians_un_report_finds.html Canada failing cyclists and pedestrians, U.N. report finds Canada says the right things but needs to take action to protect vulnerable road users, according to a new WHO report. A United Nations' reports says Canada is failing behind when it comes to developing policy to protect vulnerable road users. By: Kristen E. Courtney Special to the Star, Published on Thu Mar 14 2013 Canada is falling to the back of the pack when it comes to policies aimed at protecting vulnerable road users, according to a new report released by the World Health Organization. While 77 per cent of United Nations countries carry out safety audits to ensure the safety of road infrastructure projects for cyclists and pedestrians, Canada does not, and is contributing to a concerning trend of countries promoting alternative forms of transportation without ensuring their safety, according to the Global Status Report on Road Safety <http://www.who.int/violence_injury_prevention/road_safety_status/2013/en/in dex.html> . While studies have consistently shown what types of walking and cycling infrastructure are needed to improve road safety, including safe routes and crossings for pedestrians, slower traffic speeds, and dedicated cycling lanes, policies are not in place to ensure that these are incorporated into road infrastructure projects, according to the report. Eleanor McMahon, founder of Ontario's Share the Road Cycling Coalition <http://www.sharetheroad.ca/> , says she's not surprised that Canada is falling behind, as all too often the debate over road infrastructure in Canada becomes less about safety and more about playing politics. <http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2012/04/23/cyclists_steer_through_pol itical_minefield.html> This is a familiar refrain to Toronto drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, where "war on the car" <http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2009/05/24/road_wars_can_cyclists_and_motor ists_get_along.html> rhetoric seems to rear its head every time a new road construction or reconstruction project reignites the battle for a slice of the street. "We shouldn't be having this conversation about cycling infrastructure as if cyclists were a special interest group. They are not a special interest group; they are everyday people getting from point A to point B. and all of these deaths are preventable," McMahon says. The good news is that overall road deaths around the world are down slightly, to 1.24 million per year from 1.3 million per year since the previous Global Status Report on Road Safety in 2009 <http://www.who.int/violence_injury_prevention/road_safety_status/2009/en/> . Canada mirrors this trend, with overall annual road deaths falling to 2,227 from 2,889. However, 27 per cent of global road traffic deaths are among pedestrians and cyclists, which has Dr. Margaret Chan, Director-General of the World Health Organization, concerned: "To date, these road users have been neglected in transport and planning policy. The world must now increase its focus on making walking and cycling safer, and protecting these road users from high-speed traffic." One of the three key recommendations emerging from the report is that concerted effort is needed to make road infrastructure safer for pedestrians and cyclists, by taking the needs of these road users into account <http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/03/14/canada_failing_cyclists_and_pede strians_un_report_finds.html> earlier, when road safety, policy, transport planning and land use decisions are made. The report places a particular emphasis on the conduct of formal audits of new and existing road infrastructure projects - by independent assessors not involved in the planning or construction - to minimize crash risk and the potential consequences for all road users. Such audits can produce important safety gains for all, according to the report. McMahon says she's not aware of any consistent policies that exist at the national, provincial or municipal level in Canada that require such safety audits or assessments of road construction projects <http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/03/14/canada_failing_cyclists_and_pede strians_un_report_finds.html> . "As someone who lost their life partner to a cycling accident, safety is absolutely paramount to me," she says, "but we need a carrot and stick approach. Dedicated infrastructure funding and political will are also essential." McMahon's husband, OPP Sergeant Greg Stobbart, was killed in 2006 while riding his bike on Tremaine Rd. in Milton. While Ontario has a number of policies in place that are supposed to encourage active transportation and ensure the safety of cyclists and pedestrians, the political will necessary to implement these policies effectively is lacking, says McMahon. "We're starting to see some progress. you would think that having these things in policies would help, but we sure have a long way to go." The Global Status Report 2013 will serve as the baseline for Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020, declared by the U.N. General Assembly to stem the rise in road accidents as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Kristen Courtney is an environmental lawyer and a Fellow in Global Journalism at the Munk School for Global Affairs. Thanks Dave o _ ( \ _ (X)\ /(X)

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Jane's Walk 2013 Planning Meeting
by Beth McKechnie 13 Mar '13

13 Mar '13

Join us to help plan the 2013 Jane's Walk in Winnipeg! Please forward to others who may be interested in leading or in helping to plan a Jane's Walk this year. *What*: Jane's Walk 2013 Planning Meeting *When*: March 22 @ 6pm *Where*: The Toad (112 Osborne Street) For those of you less familiar with Jane's Walk, here is the link to the website: http://janeswalk.net/ Also, find attached the event poster from 2012 that lists the walks that occurred in Winnipeg. thanks! Beth

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Introducing our new video - Bike Winnipeg!
by Shoni Litinsky 12 Mar '13

12 Mar '13

Hi Everyone, Our new video is out - somehow became a media sensation overnight and has over 8000 views already :) Introducing Bike Winnipeg, a video featuring Winnipeg cyclists of all ages and abilities. View here: https://vimeo.com/61573065 A big thank you to Assiniboine Credit Union, our filmmakers Chris Paetkau and Trevor Gill, and over 30 cyclists that agreed to be filmed. Please share wide and far as you can - twitter, facebook, websites, e-mail! Enjoy :) -- *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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Winnipeg Transit Riders Association (WTRA) Public Forum - Sat Mar 23
by Beth McKechnie 11 Mar '13

11 Mar '13

Winnipeg Transit Riders Association - Giving Transit riders a voice! Join the conversation. The WTRA is a new organization. We want you to help us set our directions and priorities. Come out to a *public forum* on Sat Mar 23 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM Carol Shields Auditorium Millennium Library 251 Donald St Here's what will happen at our forum: - Hear Winnipeg Transit share their plans for improving the system. - See videos of exciting, inspiring public transit solutions from elsewhere. - Participate in an Open Space discussion exercise. What do you want to talk about? There will even be refreshments! Mobility should be considered a right in this society. Currently, many Winnipeggers do not own cars and are not able to use public transit to effectively meet their mobility needs. We need to help Winnipeg Transit and government understand what transit riders want and need so that more people will use Transit. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/WinnipegTransitRidersAssociation/ Please share this message with your friends and networks! -- *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: Bicycle Parking and Transit, Wed, Mar 13, 2-3 pm, EcoCentre
by Beth McKechnie 07 Mar '13

07 Mar '13

Green Action Centre and Stantec Consulting invite you to join us for a local viewing of the *third* of four APBP webinars on bicycle parking. It takes place at the EcoCentre (3rd floor, 303 Portage Ave) and will be followed by group discussion of local applications. * Bicycle Parking and Transit** Wed, Mar. 13, 2013 | 2:00-3:00 pm CST* RSVPs are appreciated but not necessary. Hope to see you then! cheers, Beth 925-3772 * * * * * * * Bicycle Parking and Transit This webinar module introduces and describes techniques and programs used by transit agencies to encourage and accommodate high levels of bicycle access to a variety of transit modes. Particular attention will be paid to use of higher security and capacity techniques, including staffed parking, lockers and “in-line” station parking solutions. Forecasting demand will be discussed, as will security and management concerns unique to transit. Bicycle parking will be examined as a means to leverage other transit and bicycle infrastructure development through thoughtfully designed and managed parking programs. The session will also cover design, layout, and management of lockers; bike stations; and adapting bicycle parking to specific transit modes. Who should attend? Municipal staff, transit agency staff, managers of educational, corporate and healthcare campuses, and members of Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committees, as well as elected officials and staff of bicycle advocacy organizations. Both the experienced agency manager and those new to developing bicycle parking solutions will benefit. *For future dates and topics in the Bicycle Parking Webinar series, see: * http://greenactioncentre.ca/event/apbp-bicycle-parking-webinar-series/

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America Walks Discussion Forum: Repurposing Public Spaces to Restore Walking on Main Streets & Beyond
by Beth McKechnie 07 Mar '13

07 Mar '13

For interest, in case anyone wants to register for this discussion forum... ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: America Walks <info(a)americawalks.org> Date: Thu, Mar 7, 2013 at 8:27 AM Subject: Attend our 3rd Discussion Forum: Repurposing Public Spaces to Restore Walking on Main Streets & Beyond [image: AW Logo 7.11] [image: Alliance for Biking & Walking logo] *Repurposing Public Spaces to Restore Walking on Main Streets & Beyond * *When* Thursday March 28, 2013 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM EDT Add to Calendar<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001UNhaT6UN2gkzqZbxekyywEbCTlI0pskNkryBhNOKcM9a…> *Where* *Telephone Discussion Forum* [image: Join Our Mailing List!]<http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/email.jsp?m=1101645522588> *Dear Beth,* Please join us and register for this free telephone discussion forum on March 28, 2013 from 2:00pm - 3:00pm ET / 11:00am - 12:00pm PT. * Register Now!<http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=7ujbt4bab&oeidk…> * Mark your calendars for a great discussion on the repurposing of underutilized public spaces into vibrant walkable places. The discussion forum will be an exciting exchange of stories, not only from our featured speaker, but also from others on the call. *Call Description* Hear from featured speaker, Carol Dick, about each step in the process of turning underutilized public space in Lemon Grove CA, into revitalized main streets. Carol Dick<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001UNhaT6UN2glJARP9VjdGdIIrF7WDt5xjeLWDZYFs8SAc…>(see bio) is the Development Services Department Director of the City of Lemon Grove, a city of 26,000 people in the County of San Diego CA. *Share your story! We want to hear from you.* In addition to our featured speaker, this discussion forum will invite "story-tellers" from the audience who can share specific stories about how their community re-purposed space to make main streets or neighborhoods attractive and useable for pedestrians and cyclists. *If you are interested in sharing your story, please contact forum moderator Yolanda Savage-Narva <ysavage-narva(a)americawalks.org> at **ysavage-narva(a)americawalks.org. *She'll carve out time for 5 "story-tellers." Contact Yolanda NOW so you can share your story on the call. *Register Now!<http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=7ujbt4bab&oeidk…> * * * These Discussion Forums are sponsored by America Walks<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001UNhaT6UN2gk8UNHCMGGIfhE8g976z21GNVdOua7z-Mwp…>, in partnership with the Alliance for Biking & Walking<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001UNhaT6UN2gma9K88mis4-oPaPKIrLEft7HoL6HUaDDoJ…> . 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=TEVP_Inv_001> 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 2834 | Alexandria | VA | 22301

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Mayor of London proposes $1.4B cycling plan for the city
by Beth McKechnie 07 Mar '13

07 Mar '13

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> Date: Thu, 7 Mar 2013 10:15:55 -0600 Subject: Mayor of London proposes $1.4B cycling plan for the city; “Crossrail for the bike” Mayor of London proposes $1.4B cycling plan for the city; “Crossrail for the bike” <http://www.greencarcongress.com/2013/03/london-20130307.html> 7 March 2013 The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has outlined<http://www.london.gov.uk/media/press_releases_mayoral/“crossrail-bike”-mayo…>a vision<http://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/Cycling%20Vision%20GLA%20templ…>for a £913-million (US$1.48-billion) investment in cycling infrastructure for the city. Among other features, the plans would create a “Crossrail for the bike”—a route that will run for more than 15 miles (24 km), very substantially segregated, from the western suburbs, through the heart of London, to Canary Wharf and Barking. It would use new Dutch-style segregated cycle tracks along, among other places, the Victoria Embankment and the Westway flyover. It is believed to be the longest substantially-segregated cycle route of any city in Europe. *Continue Reading “Mayor of London proposes $1.4B cycling plan for the city; “Crossrail for the *<http://www.greencarcongress.com/2013/03/london-20130307.html> -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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WFP: Rapid-transit busway gets Parker Lands nod - Council approves dogleg route despite concerns (Mar.7'13)
by Beth McKechnie 07 Mar '13

07 Mar '13

[Not so sure about the "less impact on traffic" comment – I would hope that the RT extension and accompanying AT would have a definite impact! Tongue planted firmly in cheek. -cheers, Beth] Rapid-transit busway gets Parker Lands nod Council approves dogleg route despite concerns By: Jen Skerritt http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/rapid-transit-busway-gets-parker-lan… A plan to extend the second phase of Winnipeg's southwest rapid-transit corridor through the Parker Lands has passed another hurdle. On Wednesday, council's executive policy committee voted unanimously in favour of the dogleg route that runs west through the Parker Lands, then southeast along a Manitoba Hydro corridor. The city hired Dillon Consulting in 2012 to examine potential alignments, and consultants determined this route has more benefits than a busway that runs south along the CN rail line west of Pembina Highway. A city report said the Parker route will have less impact on traffic and would allow buses to travel faster because there are fewer road crossings. Coun. John Orlikow (River Heights) and several citizens told members of the committee the city did not fully consider the potential benefits of extending the corridor south near Pembina along the CN Letellier line. Orlikow said he believes the Parker Lands will develop regardless of the rapid-transit corridor, but the city will not be able to redevelop Pembina Highway without bus rapid transit. Area residents expressed concern the route will have a negative environmental impact on the Parker wetlands. "There's just too many missing holes here," said Orlikow, who urged EPC to further study the alignment options. Winnipeg Transit director Dave Wardrop said the Parker route provides more opportunities for infill development and fewer expropriations than extending the corridor south near Pembina Highway. He said the city would have to relocate the rail line closer to surrounding homes if it installed a busway there, and there would not be room for active-transportation corridors. Public works chairman Coun. Dan Vandal (St. Boniface) reiterated his support for the recommended route through the Parker Lands, saying Winnipeg is years behind rapid transit in other cities and needs to get the second phase finished. The first phase of the southwest rapid transit corridor opened last April and runs between Queen Elizabeth Way near The Forks to Jubilee Avenue near Pembina. City council will vote on the proposed alignment for the second phase later this month. Mayor Sam Katz said any council decision is subject to having the money in place. The city plans to spend $10 million on the second phase of the Southwest Transitway in 2014 and another $127.5 million in 2015. Winnipeg hopes the province will match the city's contribution of $137.5 million, and the city has applied for $75 million in federal funding, Katz said he believes the city will be successful with its application to the federal government, and discussions are ongoing with the province. jen.skerritt(a)freepress.mb.ca -- State of the city: Mayor Sam Katz will deliver his annual State of the City address this Friday at a Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce-sponsored luncheon at the Winnipeg Convention Centre. On Wednesday, Katz would not say if he plans to make any announcements during this year's speech. *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition March 7, 2013 B3*

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Green Action Centre Hiring Executive Director
by Masha Giller 05 Mar '13

05 Mar '13

*Green Action Centre seeks Executive Director* Green Action Centre is a non-profit, non-government hub for sustainable solutions based in Winnipeg but serving all of Manitoba. We are a registered charity governed by an elected community board, with a committed, resourceful, and collaborative staff. We promote greener living through environmental education and encourage practical green solutions for communities, homeowners, workplaces and schools. A pioneer in sustainable living, green commuting, composting, waste reduction, and energy policy in Manitoba, you may have met us as Resource Conservation Manitoba (before we changed our name in September 2010). We facilitate change, supported by donations from individuals, fees for service, grants from foundations and governments, as well as sponsorships. Our Executive Director is an authentic leader – dedicated and passionate towards ensuring a supportive, non-hierarchical and dynamic workplace along with effective community leadership. Having an open-minded, team-based approach, our engaged Executive Director works with staff, the Board, members, volunteers and the public to continuously build an imaginative, inclusive, and forward-thinking organization. Our Executive Director mirrors the environmental caring of our members. Our organization walks the talk of ecological sustainability and social justice and, through outreach to the community, advocates the shared values needed to help move society towards sustainability. Persistent, creative, and diverse programming and fund-raising strategies that reflect our commitment to honesty and integrity are pivotal to the success of Green Action Centre. Further details about this challenging opportunity, including responsibilities, remuneration and application process, are available in a PDF here<http://greenactioncentre.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Green-Action-Centre-…> Deadline for applications is *Tuesday April 2 at 12 noon CDT*. Please circulate widely. -- *Masha Giller* Green Action Centre <http://greenactioncentre.ca/> | Active and Safe Routes to School 3rd floor, 303 Portage Avenue* | *(204) 925-3779 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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Win Win Winnipeg - March 5th article posted by copenhagenize
by Anders Swanson 05 Mar '13

05 Mar '13

[stumbled on this post by Mikael Colville-Andersen...including thoughts on the Pembina bike lane, snow clearing, how Winnipeg is faring compared to other cities and more..] Read the whole thing here: http://www.copenhagenize.com/2013/03/win-win-winnipeg.html

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WFP: Pedals power green dream (Mar.2'13)
by Beth McKechnie 05 Mar '13

05 Mar '13

Pedals power green dream By: Chris Rose http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/westview/pedals-power-green-dream-… VANCOUVER -- Maybe it's all that cleansing water from too many rain storms, but this city at the bottom of the Coast Mountains and on the edge of the Pacific Ocean has always been a bit of a dreamer. The latest dream of Vancouver, the birthplace of the international environmental group Greenpeace, is to become the "greenest city in the world" by 2020, a plan that increasingly incorporates the use of low-tech wind-in-your-helmet bicycle power to encourage residents to take back the streets by turning off their car engines. Conor Murphy, a 49-year-old Vancouver teacher who commutes year-round to and from work on his bicycle, is living proof that getting out of the car makes him, and the city he enjoys as he pedals about, have a lower carbon footprint. "I have always been attracted to the idea of wheeling around the city on my bike. However, before the development of bike lanes in Vancouver, it was difficult to commute in the city without ending up on major arterial roads. I would arrive at work spitting mad and shaken by what seemed like a daily brush with death," said Murphy, who used to attach a trailer to his bike so that his young daughter could ride along with him at a gloriously greenhouse-gas-emissions-free pace. "Now I ride my bike on quiet tree-lined streets with little car traffic and other like minded pedal pushers. The community of cyclists is growing rapidly. There is a zen quality to the self-propelled life style." Vancouver's modern-day love affair with bikes began in 1993 when it established the city's first local street bike route and four years later when the first dedicated bike lane went into effect. This interconnected network of bike lanes, routes and paths now totals approximately 250 kilometres and city plans call for an even larger, more extensive network. Cars, carbon and congestion are bad, the city has decided, and bikes are a very high-profile signal that the unfettered age of the automobile, at least in Vancouver, may well have reached its peak. Indeed, data collected by the regional transit authority indicates about 72,000 bike trips occurred daily in Vancouver in 2011, up 35 per cent from 2008. But not everybody appreciates this civic foray into the biking world. Car enthusiasts who shake with road rage at having to slow down for two-wheel traffic complain that bike riders don't obey traffic signs and the expanding network of bike lanes makes movement more difficult for automobiles. Downtown merchants moan that bike lanes interfere with car parking and result in fewer sales. Despite those concerns, Vancouver is pressing ahead with its laudable plans to encourage as much bike riding as possible. After all, it's not as if bicycling can't become a major, and affordable, healthy urban pastime: just think of those moving armies of bike riders in Amsterdam or Copenhagen, all with rosy cheeks and mostly low blood pressure. Bike commuters like Murphy speak enthusiastically of cycling as a triple win -- a quiet part of their day that gives them exercise, often allows them to travel as fast as cars and buses confined to clogged traffic corridors, and the chance to be a free-wheeling kid again out exploring a world far away from stress. There are other benefits, too. Aging baby boomers who just can't bear to go to an expensive gym, with its soulless punishment camp ethic, don't need to feel guilty as being a committed bike commuter neatly lets them off the health fitness hook. And, like all exercise, the more you bike, the more you want to bike. It's also free. Vancouver Coun. Geoff Meggs, a long-time biking aficionado, believes cycling is critical to improving transportation in the city. "It's one of the solutions," Meggs said. "We can't put new roads and highways into Vancouver." The city wants to see bike traffic reach 10 per cent of all transportation trips by 2020, he said, adding safe infrastructure, especially separated bike lanes, is necessary to attain that goal. "Cycling is one of the critical choices people are going to be glad to have down the road." The city's website boasts that while Vancouverites already reside in the most liveable city in the world, the community proportionately uses, and wastes, far too many of Earth's diminishing resources. To that end, the city has come up with a 10-part 2020 action plan to address three major issues -- carbon, waste and ecosystems. As a way of eliminating fossil fuel dependence and unclogging many of the city's rush-hour-blocked roadways, more biking, walking and public transit usage are a major part of the city's plan. That plan notes Vancouver is aiming for more than 50 per cent of all trips to be taken by bike, foot and public transit. This would, it is hoped, help reduce the average distance driven per resident by 20 per cent from 2007 levels. For all those who say Vancouver's moderate-weather bicycle revolution could never happen on the Prairies or other parts of Canada that have to fight with snow, ice and other brutish winter hurdles, Clinton Cuddington begs to differ. As a starving University of Manitoba student taking an undergraduate degree in architecture, Cuddington was known for riding his bike in Winnipeg year round -- complete with a ski mask, goggles and a big hat. "It was the only way I travelled," he remembers. "I often had icicles coming down my nose. I wore this total World War Two getup as I pounded to school every day." Cuddington, 45, added Vancouver's plan to use biking to help make it the greenest city in the world is a noble cause. "We've got to get people out of cars, that's for certain." Chris Rose is the Winnipeg Free Press West Coast correspondent. *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition March 2, 2013 J1*

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U.S. DOT to challenge AASHTO supremacy on bike/ped safety standards
by Beth McKechnie 05 Mar '13

05 Mar '13

U.S. DOT to Challenge AASHTO Supremacy on Bike/Ped Safety Standards by Tanya Snyder <http://dc.streetsblog.org/author/tanya-snyder/> | Thursday, February 28, 2013 http://dc.streetsblog.org/2013/02/28/u-s-dot-to-challenge-aashto-supremacy-… For years, the federal government has adopted roadway guidelines that fall far short of what’s needed — and what’s possible — to protect cyclists and pedestrians. By “playing it safe” and sticking with old-school engineering, U.S. DOT allowed streets to be unsafe for these vulnerable road users. But that could be changing. The bike-friendliest transportation secretary the country has ever seen told state transportation officials yesterday at AASHTO’s annual Washington conference that U.S. DOT was getting into the business of issuing its own design standards, instead of simply accepting the AASHTO guidelines. Normally, the Federal Highway Administration points people<http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/programadmin/standards.cfm>to AASHTO’s Green Book <https://bookstore.transportation.org/collection_detail.aspx?id=110>, the organization’s design guide for highways and streets — and indeed, the agency is still directing people to the *2001 edition* of the Green Book. Cycling advocates have long criticized<http://dc.streetsblog.org/2012/06/19/aashto-adds-designs-to-bikeway-guide-b…>the AASHTO guide, and the FHWA’s adherence to it, since even the most recent version doesn’t incorporate the latest thinking in bicycle and pedestrian safety treatments. In FHWA’s new round of rule-making, DOT will set its own bicycle and pedestrian safety standards for the first time. The agency will “highlight bicycle and pedestrian safety as a priority,” LaHood said. (You can watch his entire speech on AASHTO’s online TV channel<http://www.transportationtv.org/Pages/default.aspx?VideoId=306> .) FHWA will rely heavily on input from AASHTO but also signaled that it would work with others to incorporate the full spectrum of bike/ped design best practices. The National Association of City Transportation Officials publishes its own, much more cutting-edge, design guide<http://dc.streetsblog.org/2011/03/09/new-bikeway-design-guide-could-bring-s…>for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. No one at U.S. DOT reached out to NACTO in advance of the AASHTO speech, but NACTO spokesperson Ron Thaniel said they have a “close working relationship with Secretary LaHood” and “look forward to working with him” on the new standards. LaHood noted that he would be meeting with cyclists next week at the National Bike Summit here in Washington and that he would work with them on ways to improve infrastructure “to make biking and walking opportunities as safe as they possibly can be.” But it was wise of him to make his announcement at AASHTO, not at the Bike Summit. He seems to be trying to bring AASHTO into the fold of a movement to embrace more innovative bikeway designs. “I’m asking [the cycling community] for their help but I’m asking you to be helpful also,” he told the state officials. “I know that most of you want to build the 21st century infrastructure that your communities need to be competitive. The problem is we don’t have modern-day roadway standards to help us bring these ideas to life.” It’s a big step for U.S. DOT to craft its own bicycle and pedestrian safety standards, and it’s especially positive that the move started under a secretary that sees biking and walking as equal to driving<http://dc.streetsblog.org/2010/05/28/cyclists-laud-lahoods-bike-ped-advocac…> in the transportation world. “We know that people are cycling more and walking more, and that pedestrian and cycling safety has to be a priority,” he told the audience at AASHTO yesterday. “We must ensure that our streets, bridges and highways are safe whether we’re in a car or on a bike.” Below are LaHood’s remarks, in full: Our job is never done. We can always do better, and that’s especially true when it comes to bicyclist and pedestrian safety. I’m going to meet with cyclists — their meeting is here in Washington next week, and we’re going to continue to work with the cycling community on promoting bicycle and pedestrian safety through public education, such as encouraging bike riders to wear a helmet, and through improved infrastructure in more livable communities that make biking and walking opportunities as safe as they possibly can be. We need your help in this. We know that people are cycling more and walking more and that pedestrian and cycling safety has to be a priority. We must ensure that our streets, bridges and highways are safe, whether we’re in a car or on a bike. So I’m asking them for their help but I’m asking you to be helpful also. I know that most of you want to build the 21st century infrastructure that your communities need to be competitive. The problem is we don’t have modern-day roadway standards to help us bring these ideas to life. Today, I’m proud to tell you that DOT is looking to create a standard guide for how we will build modern streets that work for everyone who depends on them. As we begin work on this, we’re going to look at the AASHTO bike guide — and other, similar types of assistance — to help us build streets, bridges and highways that keep all travelers as safe as possible. We’re going to build from your ideas in order to highlight bicycle and pedestrian safety as a priority. And we’re going to work with you as we create this critical safety resource. Businesses and travelers alike are looking to us to build modern infrastructure that not only meets their changing demands, but is safe as well. We must work together to meet the growing demand for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and to make these transportation options safe for more Americans. *Tanya Snyder became Streetsblog's Capitol Hill editor in September 2010 after covering Congress for Pacifica and public radio. She lives car-free in a transit-oriented and bike-friendly neighborhood of Washington, DC. *

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Cycling Skills courses
by Dave Elmore 05 Mar '13

05 Mar '13

It may seem a bit early for this however if anyone if putting out spring newsletters etc please consider promoting these courses offered through the City's Leisure Guide: City Cycling for Beginners <http://www.leisureonline.ca/eConnect/Activities/ActivitiesDetails.asp?aid=7 215> : Do you want to ride your bike more often but just don't feel safe? Do you want to teach your kids how to cycle safely? Can-Bike certified instructors from Bike to the Future will help you build both the knowledge and confidence to start riding on the streets and trails in Winnipeg. Saturday May 4, 2013 - 12:00 to 4:00 PM - Fort Rouge Leisure Centre http://www.leisureonline.ca/eConnect/Activities/ActivitiesCourseDetails.asp? cid=456906&LanguageId=1&LanguageIndex=1&SCheck=420583712&SDT=41336.715277777 8 City Cycling for Commuters: Would you like to start commuting but are uncomfortable on busier streets? Are you already commuting, but want to learn the cycling skills that will allow you to ride safely in heavier traffic? Certified Can-Bike instructors from Bike to the Future will help you build the skills and knowledge to ride confidently in traffic. Saturday May 4, 2013 - 12:00 to 4:00 PM - Auditorium-St. James Civic Centre http://www.leisureonline.ca/eConnect/Activities/ActivitiesCourseDetails.asp? cid=456905&LanguageId=1&LanguageIndex=1&SCheck=420583716&SDT=41336.716157407 4 Thanks Dave o _ ( \ _ (X)\ /(X)

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Spring Tune Up Driving for Mature Drivers in Fort Richmond - record turnout!
by Janice Lukes 04 Mar '13

04 Mar '13

I want to share an initiatives I helped organize last week that I found very interesting - Spring Tune Up for Mature Drivers - held in at the Richmond Kings Community Center on Thursday, February 28th In light of the ongoing 'car vs cyclist' challenges we hear about almost daily, Bike Walk and Roll coordinators* thought we would focus on trying to educate south end Winnipeg DRIVERS. CAA in partnership with MPI / Safety Services delivers a BRILLIANT 'Mature Drivers' education session and we thought we would partner to bring education to Fort Richmond (see attached flyer). The session is FREE to anyone - regardless if you're 55+ - and really does an excellent job of highlighting cycling and pedestrian challenges / rules as related to vehicle drivers ( I sat through a presentation last November to check it out). Bike Walk and Roll Coordinators invited CAA to present this workshop in the community of Fort Richmond. Through advertising and emails we ended up having 200 people register for the session last week! Yes - 200 ! Kevin Lunn (and I) spoke about walking and cycling and sharing the road at the beginning of the session - we handed out TIPS for drivers AND cyclists (2 pages attached) We had an ADDITIONAL 80 register but couldn't accommodate so we are holding another session on: Spring Tune Up for Mature Drivers April 17th 10:00 am Fort Garry Evangelical Mennonite Church <http://www.fortgarryemc.ca/> http://www.fortgarryemc.ca/ 602 Pasadena Ave (Fort Richmond) The questions folks had on cycling / walking were good questions - REALLY amplifying to me - the importance of holding this session. The presenter knew her stuff inside and out. I know this is only a small fraction of drivers we are helping to educated in the south of Winnipeg - but - I think it is a great start. The media went delirious over it - this isn't the first time the course has been offered by CAA - but - I think it tweak media's interest for a variety of reason (our car / cyclist challenges / older driver news in Ontario / etc.) MEDIA: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/story/2013/02/28/mb-driving-seniors-c ourse-mpi-winnipeg.html http://www.globalwinnipeg.com/video/evening+news++feb+28/video.html?v=233955 8636#evening+news 12 minutes into the video http://metronews.ca/news/winnipeg/578527/mature-winnipeg-drivers-gear-up-on- road-safety/ (in both Friday and Saturday editions) CJOB in the morning of the 28th CBC Radio - Up to Speed / Larry Updike in the afternoon of the 28th Full article / photo to be in this Wednesday's Sou'Wester *Bike Walk and Roll - Pilot Project in Fort Richmond - University Heights The Green Action Centre is coordinating a project which is putting the 'AT' magnifying glass on the communities of Fort Richmond and University Heights. Through the support of many partners <http://activetransportation.ca/canada/manitoba/winnipeg/fort-richmond/commu nity-support/> - and a variety of initiatives - we are looking to improve walking, cycling and wheelchair conditions in these two communities. There is lots happening in this area with U of M / Southwood Lands / Stadium arrival / AT on Pembina Hwy / studies on gondolas & bridges over Red River / Active Living Centre construction / etc. with a lot of these initiatives focusing on active transportation. Thanks Janice Lukes Community Active Transportation Coordinator Bike Walk & Roll - Fort Richmond University Heights Project <http://www.FortRichmondAT.ca> www.FortRichmondAT.ca c/o <http://greenactioncentre.ca/> Green Action Centre 204.952.4222

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Winter Bike to Work Day Results, Registration, Photos, etc.
by Anders Swanson 01 Mar '13

01 Mar '13

[ Not sure if this info got posted to the listserv already or not, but here's the super-interesting results from Winnipeg's (and quite a few other places') first ever Winter Bike to Work Day. This info was in an email that went out to all the registrants last week. If you want to be the first to get info for next year, feel to register anytime<http://winterbiketoworkday.org/registe-to-ride/>. - Anders ] - - - Winter Bike to Work Day 2013 was a success! Six communities officially took part, with 492 winter cyclists taking the time to register from 31 different communities across 3 continents. Almost 15% of you rode for the first time! For full details, check out your community's results and the revealing answers from the opinion surveys<http://winterbiketoworkday.us6.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=f147afc96aebc…>. Also, see what 391 of you had to say about "what I love most about biking in thewinter<http://winterbiketoworkday.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f147afc96aebc6…> ...". And, have a look at some fabulous photos, including the contest winners.<http://winterbiketoworkday.us6.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=f147afc96aebc…> Want to help grow the event next year? Fill out a quick form to state your interest in volunteering or organizing<http://winterbiketoworkday.us6.list-manage.com/track/click?u=f147afc96aebc6…> . See you in 2014! winterbiketoworkday.org

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Active School Travel Webinar Series
by Shoni Litinsky 01 Mar '13

01 Mar '13

Looks like our Walking and Wheeling webinar series<http://greenactioncentre.ca/content/walking-and-wheeling-webinar-series/>was such a success that our Active and Safe Routes to School partners in Ontario will be doing one as well! We will not be able to host all of them here at the Eco-Centre, but when we can I will send a reminder and invitation. Please register with Sandra Jones to watch from your own computer: scjones(a)telus.net Please check your own access to the WALKS room on this link below. Click 'Allow' when promoted, or follow the instruction; for instance to update JAVA. Guest Link here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001txjSoZpK2mCKvai5APqy9DIcNLkRylU3EDFTaS3mOGEE…> . *Wednesday March 6 - 11am-1:30pm CST * *THE REALITY OF WORKING WITH HIGH SCHOOLS* This active school travel webinar will include presentations and discussion of the rewards and challenges of working with high school students. These are the projects and presenters: *Adapting School Travel Planning for High Schools *Jamie Stuckless will present findings of a Green Communities Canada-directed pilot in Ottawa that took place between September 2010 and December 2012. *Experiences Engaging High School Students *Omar Bhimji with HASTe BC will share his insights. *Making Tracks With High School Students *Jen McGowan will present on programs offered through the Ecology Action Centre, Nova Scotia *Supporting Our High Schools *Share The Road representative Jamie Stuckless will update on their latest work. * * *Wednesday April 3 - 11:00am-12:30pm CST* *PROGRESS IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES* We are pleased to have municipal planners and other community professionals join us to present on School Travel Planning and active school travel projects in: - The City of Vernon, BC - The City of Edmonton, AB - Rural Yukon communities - Bridgewater, Nova Scotia (to be confirmed) - Case study highlights from Ontario *Tuesday April 30 - 11:00am-12:30pm CST* *TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENTS IN STP AND ASRTS* Developers of unique active school travel apps for web and mobile devices will share their latest findings and updates. The presenters are: - Anders Swanson. Background information is at www.greenactioncentre.ca<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001txjSoZpK2mDWbaAyS3pX5W1K9BKtlMIkmvj_hKjj1VsQ…> Bike, Walk Roll Project mapping app development - Ken Martin. A link for app use is at iSchoolTravel: Active Travel and Emissions Calculator<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001txjSoZpK2mC4JuEOKTwu146CR934GtkXL2wN0_Seu2uD…> *Wednesday June 19 - 11:00am-12:30pm CST* *LOCAL AIR QUALITY AND CHILDREN'S MOBILITY* This session will provide results and highlights from the Hamilton, Ontario air quality monitoring project at St. Lawrence Catholic School. The project, a joint effort of Green Venture, Rotek Environmental, Clean Air Hamilton and Green Communities Canada, with support from Environment Canada's Air Quality Health Index, has involved elementary students in the collection and analysis of air quality data around the school and in action planning. St. Lawrence has been an active participant in the Stepping It Up (School Travel Planning) project with Metrolinx as well as Share the Road and Green Communities' Wheeling to School pilot. Funding for the above webinar series is provided by the Ontario Ministry of Health. Thank you! -- *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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Whose Winnipeg?
by Beth McKechnie 01 Mar '13

01 Mar '13

Thought this might be of interest from an AT perspective, among others of course. Apologies for cross-postings. Please see attached, and circulate widely: *Whose Winnipeg? A forum to discuss public process and city decisions* Thursday March 14, 6-8pm Carol Shields Auditorium Millennium Library 251 Donald St Hosted by the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg in partnership with Planners Network Manitoba OURS Winnipeg For the Love of Winnipeg For more information, call the Social Planning Council: 204-943-256<204-943-2561>

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Stay safe, take transit
by Dave Elmore 01 Mar '13

01 Mar '13

http://www.theprovince.com/Stay+safe+take+transit+says+study+revealing+great er+risks+driving+cycling+especially+motorbikes/8032362/story.html Stay safe, take transit, says study revealing greater risks of driving, cycling and especially motorbikes By Ian Austin, The Province February 28, 2013 The lead author of a new study endorses Vancouver's efforts to make cycling and walking safer, with a growing network of greenways and separated bike paths. If you want to be safe, take the bus - and leave the motorbike on blocks. That's the conclusion from a new study on the relative safety of the car, bicycle and motorcycle as opposed to walking and public transit. Buses and public transit are much, much safer than any other mode of transport, while motorbikes are much, much more dangerous than anything else. Canada is about twice as dangerous as the model transportation nation - tiny Holland, with its hordes of cyclists - and considerably safer than the most dangerous nation, the car-crazed United States. Meghan Winters led a group of Simon Fraser University and University of B.C. researchers who found that 200 B.C. lives would be saved each year if we could emulate the safe streets of the Netherlands. "Lower speeds, and put in separate areas dedicated for cyclists and walkers," said Winters, when asked where she'd start to make Vancouver safer. "Public transit, cycling and walking are all sustainable modes of transport we should be encouraging." Buses and public transit were far and away the optimum choice for the safety conscious - 20 times safer than cars, bicycles and walking, which all scored roughly the same. For those who live on the wild side, riding a motorcycle is fully 25 times as dangerous as driving, cycling or walking. Rehabilitation facilities such as G.F. Strong are full of the victims of tragic motorbike crashes, with lengthy regimens for bikers who are particularly vulnerable to crashes. Winters endorses Vancouver's efforts to make cycling and walking safer, with a growing network of greenways and separated bike paths along with traffic calming roundabouts. Concerned about a spike in pedestrian deaths, Vancouver also recently lowered the speed limit to 30 km/h on a high-volume Downtown Eastside corridor as a pilot project. "Speed kills," said Winters, an SFU assistant professor of health sciences. "Reducing speeds lowers the severity of the injuries." - See more at: http://www.theprovince.com/Stay+safe+take+transit+says+study+revealing+great er+risks+driving+cycling+especially+motorbikes/8032362/story.html#sthash.lTV egH6n.dpuf

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Request for literature - built environment impact in rural, remote and northern communities
by Beth McKechnie 27 Feb '13

27 Feb '13

Request for Literature: We are conducting a literature review (academic and grey) on the impact of built environment features on physical activity and/or healthy eating and/or health equity in rural, remote, and northern communities. This project is funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. The final product will be a knowledge synthesis report that includes an annotated biography. This report has the potential to provide guidance in addressing the unique challenges and needs that these communities face in improving the health outcomes of their populations. In addition to conducting a search for peer-reviewed literature in databases (e.g. PsychoINFO, MEDLINE) we are also seeking practitioner and/or academic input. REQUEST: If you are aware of academic literature OR grey literature (reports, conference proceedings, dissertations and theses and white papers) on this topic, please send us a link or reference information to Kim Bergeron @ kim(a)buildingbetter.biz by March 8, 2013. Please disseminate this request widely. Sincerely, Kim Bergeron and Sue Cragg Research Consultants Kim Bergeron, Ph.D. Sue Cragg Bergeron Consulting suecraggconsulting.ca

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Invitation to participate in GMF's next webinar: Shifting Gears — The Road to Sustainable Transportation, Friday, March 1st
by Beth McKechnie 27 Feb '13

27 Feb '13

We are not around to host this FCM Green Municipal Fund webinar at the EcoCentre on Friday afternoon but if you're interested in viewing it, you can register (for free) at the link below. cheers, Beth ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Stéphanie Bohdanow <sbohdanow(a)fcm.ca> Date: Wed, Feb 27, 2013 at 8:04 AM Subject: Invitation to participate in GMF's next webinar: Shifting Gears — The Road to Sustainable Transportation, Friday, March 1st Hello, Given your past participation in one of GMF’s transportation-focused webinars, I’d like to invite you to participate in our upcoming webinar entitled “*Shifting Gears — The Road to Sustainable Transportation*<http://fcm.ca/home/events/upcoming-events/webinar-shifting-gears-the-road-t…> *”*. The webinar will be taking place this *Friday, March 1, 2:30–4:00 p.m. EST*. A description of the webinar can be found below. Registration is free and can be done online by clicking *here*<http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=N5dd7OTOVNSXu9qU_2foLBew_3d_3d> . I hope you’ll join us! Kind regards, Stephanie Voir la version française<https://vem.fcm.ca/elink.aspx?edb0457d-6180-e211-ba40-005056bc2614Q1JNUFJPR…>. | View email in your browser.<https://vem.fcm.ca/elink.aspx?eeb0457d-6180-e211-ba40-005056bc2614Q1JNUFJPR…> [image: cid:vem_e2efa84b-63ac-43d0-aa57-20ade57c6bd2] [image: cid:vem_cfc28f5f-d3f1-4ff6-826e-c76300043729]<http://www.facebook.com/pages/FCM/201746766534992> [image: cid:vem_b999b53e-1af3-46df-9e88-3201edbdc5a5]<http://www.linkedin.com/company/federation-of-canadian-municipalities> [image: cid:vem_dc6c16a7-0e9d-4b41-a0b1-03c5b80fc778]<http://twitter.com/#!/FCM_online> [image: cid:vem_aa9f2929-0bcb-4aaa-859a-9b452fea8615] February 26, 2013 Register for our March 1 webinar: Shifting Gears — The Road to Sustainable Transportation FCM is pleased to announce a new free Green Municipal Fund<http://www.fcm.ca/gmf>(GMF) webinar: *Shifting Gears: The Road to Sustainable Transportation** Part 4 of GMF’s Leading Trends in Municipal Sustainability webinar series* *Friday, March 1, 2012, 2:30–4:00 p.m. EST* *Speakers* - Damien Forbes, P.Eng., Senior Project Engineer, Toronto Transit Commission <http://www.ttc.ca/> - Erik Backstrom, Senior Planner, Transit Oriented Development Planning, City of Edmonton <http://www.edmonton.ca/> - Malcolm Shield, Climate Programs Engineer, Sustainability Group, City of Vancouver <http://www.vancouver.ca/> Communities of all sizes are encouraging the use of alternative transportation to help reduce local greenhouse gas emissions, promote active lifestyles, and ensure accessibility for citizens of all ages and abilities. This webinar will feature innovative municipal initiatives that support the transition to electric vehicles and help create built environments that encourage active living and increased use of public transit. Speakers will share the keys to their success and the insights gained from their experiences, and provide participants with valuable knowledge, which can be applied to their own communities. Register<http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=N5dd7OTOVNSXu9qU_2foLBew_3d_3dhttp://…>for this webinar online. You will receive a confirmation within one working day. *Questions?* Please contact Stephanie Bohdanow <sbohdanow(a)fcm.ca> at 613-907-6262. For more great sustainability resources, visit our website<http://fcm.ca/home/programs/green-municipal-fund/program-resources.htm> . ------------------------------ *What is a webinar? *A webinar is an interactive, web-based workshop that will inform and inspire you from the comfort of your home or office. *How much does it cost? *FCM’s Green Municipal Fund webinars are free of charge. *Learn with your colleagues.* Book a meeting room with a phone and an Internet connection and invite your colleagues to participate. Webinars are a great opportunity to discuss how the featured topics relate to your community. The Government of Canada endowed the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) with $550 million to establish the Green Municipal Fund™. The Fund supports partnerships and leveraging of both public and private-sector funding to reach higher standards of air, water and soil quality, and climate protection. [image: cid:vem_75c737af-06e8-4ff7-83a6-cc5b7234fb57] [image: cid:vem_6ba54ce8-d664-44c8-a766-f5b9e2fb932c] Green Municipal Fund Update is a publication of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities <http://www.fcm.ca/>. ©2013. Comments, inquiries and suggestions can be directed to Lorie Boucher<lboucher(a)fcm.ca> . 24 Clarence Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 5P3 • T. 613-241-5221 • F. 613-241-7440 | Privacy Policy <http://www.fcm.ca/home/privacy-policy.htm> | Unsubscribe<velferink@fcm.ca?subject=Please%20unsubscribe%20me%20from%20your%20mailing%20list> [image: https://vem.fcm.ca/elink.aspx?efb0457d-6180-e211-ba40-005056bc2614Q1JNUFJPR…] Stéphanie Bohdanow Program Officer, Capacity Building | Agente de programme, Renforcement des capacités Green Municipal Fund Fonds municipal vert <http://www.fcm.ca> 24, rue Clarence Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1N 5P3 T. 613-907-6262 | F. 613-244-1515

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Parker lands BRT route news fails to mention AT benefits
by Beth McKechnie 26 Feb '13

26 Feb '13

(Please see message below) ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Terry Zdan <tjzdan50(a)gmail.com> Date: Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:48:14 -0600 Subject: Parker Lands BRT route news fails to mention AT benefits http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/Committee-OKs-rapid-transit-corridor… -- Terry Zdan 126 Duncan Norrie Drive Wpg MB R3P 2J9 CANADA tjzdan50(a)gmail.com <tjzdan(a)gmasil.com>

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WFP: Walk this way - Pedestrian signals, street redesigns helping to make intersections safer (Feb.23'13)
by Beth McKechnie 23 Feb '13

23 Feb '13

Walk this way Pedestrian signals, street redesigns helping to make intersections safer By: Bruce Owen http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/walk-this-way-192666351.html It's been blinking for less than a year, but already it's being trumpeted as one of the best ways to make busy city intersections safer for pedestrians and drivers. It's called a pedestrian countdown signal and it sits at the corner of Portage Avenue and Donald Street across from the MTS Centre. Like its name, it counts down the number of seconds pedestrians headed to a Jets game or an arena concert have to safely cross the street before the traffic signal for the oncoming lane turns green. It was installed in June by the city as a way to introduce Winnipeggers to something more common in other cities. The countdown signal is just one tool traffic experts use to make streets safer, but how soon we'll see more of them in the city is unknown. They can only be installed where existing software and wiring can support them, and more importantly, when the city's budget process supports it. The cost of the countdown signal is about $10,000 per intersection. "There's no plan with timeline," Winnipeg traffic signals engineer Michael Cantor said of future installations. "We're trying to push for it. There's a benefit from them. It gives pedestrians an enhanced feeling of safety when they're crossing. They know exactly how much time they have to cross." Pedestrian countdown signals are now mandatory in the United States -- any new or replacement pedestrian signals being installed must include countdowns unless the pedestrian change interval (flashing upraised hand) is seven seconds or less. In Canada, they are not, but many cities (Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary) have installed them anyway, simply because of the safety benefit. Asif Iqbal, senior traffic safety engineer with the City of Edmonton, said the benefit of countdown signals is best seen in that city's downtown area, where there is a lot of foot traffic. He said Edmonton's policy is that any new interaction location or reconstruction is considered for a countdown signal. The city's first countdown signal was installed about five years ago. "Drivers like them too, because it gives them an idea on how much time they have before the light is going to turn amber," Iqbal said. "Our message, though, is that these are for pedestrians, and drivers should not rely on them." Cantor said the single countdown signal at Portage and Donald has already sparked several requests from city councillors and members of the public to have them installed at other locations, mostly in the downtown. He said there is mixed research on the cost-benefit of the signals -- do they reduce pedestrian collisions and costs to the health-care system? Cantor said the research isn't decisive and that in some jurisdictions, people get used to the countdown signals and their novelty runs out, so any safety benefit is temporary. "Different studies say different things," he said. "We want to put them in because we feel that it will give more of a safety component and better decision-making tool for pedestrians before they cross. It just feels safer when you know how many seconds you have to cross." Traffic engineers are also looking at other ways to make intersections safer but still maintain traffic flow. Edmonton's Iqbal said the most common crashes at intersections are rear-enders, mostly caused by the trailing vehicle following too closely. By re-engineering the geometry or design of some intersections, Edmonton has found it can lessen the chances of those collisions and also reduce the possibility of more severe right-angle or side crashes. Iqbal said a re-designed intersection makes it easier for drivers making right turns to turn their head sideways to see opposing traffic. "If the angle is such that when you are going through that right turn, it moves you away from that stream of traffic, it becomes difficult to turn your head, because you have to turn your head almost 180 degrees so that you can see if someone is coming," Iqbal said of older intersections. What Edmonton has done at some of its intersections is reduce the size of the right-turning lane or eliminate it, making oncoming traffic more visible to drivers going right. "What we did was when you are making a right turn now, the angle is such that when you go into the intersection, you basically make a 90-degree right turn," he said. "We call it a high-entry angle." By its design, a high-entry angle not only improves visibility for drivers turning right, but forces them to slow down before entering the intersection, he said. "If you look at statistics for most major cities, intersections are overrepresented for most collisions," said Gerry Shimko, executive director of Edmonton's Office of Traffic Safety. "Typically, more than 50 per cent of all collisions are intersection-related." An example of a change of intersection design in Winnipeg is at Salter Street and Jefferson Avenue. Last year, the four-way stop signs were replaced by traffic signals. They were installed as a way to better control an increasing amount of traffic on both streets during rush hour. In the process, a right-turning lane northbound off Salter to go east on Jefferson was eliminated. A small pedestrian island also disappeared. That was done more to realign the intersection and facilitate the installation of the traffic signals, city road engineer Stephen Chapman said. However, the road change now makes it easier for drivers turning right onto Jefferson from northbound Salter to see oncoming traffic and pedestrians. The change has also "calmed" traffic down. Chapman said traffic signals were also installed at Sinclair Street and Inkster Boulevard at the same time to reduce right-angle crashes. "We had a pattern of westbound with southbound right-angle collisions," he said -- there were 19 over a three-year period. Chapman said other busy intersections don't get traffic signals -- they get turned into roundabouts, which also reduce the chance of right-angle collisions. The most recent examples are Grassie Boulevard at Molson Street, and Lakewood Boulevard at Beaverhill Boulevard. For the worst intersections in the city, such as Leila Avenue and McPhillips Street, they see more crashes simply because of the high volume of traffic. Most collisions are fender-benders, such as rear-end crashes. "That's not necessarily something that can be engineered out," Chapman said. Shimko said Edmonton is also targeting high-risk drivers as a way to reduce collisions. That includes identifying drivers with a high number of traffic violations -- 12 or more over a two-year period. It's those drivers, who also tend to have criminal records, who are typically involved in serious collisions. "There are high-risk drivers that need to be dealt with and identified for police intervention, because that will be the only thing that will basically deal with them," he said. "Police go out and target the registered owners of these cars to deal with the offending drivers. They've had some initial good success." What Edmonton also does is divert some of the proceeds from its automated or photo-enforcement program back into traffic safety, including road redesign to lessen right-angle collisions. In Winnipeg, photo-enforcement revenue goes into policing. "We made a conscious choice that traffic safety is important," Shimko said. *bruce.owen(a)freepress.mb.ca* ** *TOP 10 worst intersections for vehicle collisions, June 2002-June 2012* Leila Avenue and McPhillips Street 1,736 Kenaston Boulevard and McGillivray Boulevard 1,719 Lagimodiere Boulevard and Regent Avenue 1,347 Grant Avenue and Kenaston Boulevard 1,343 Bishop Grandin Boulevard and St. Mary's Road 1,162 Bishop Grandin Boulevard and St. Anne's Road 1,077 Archibald Street and Marion Avenue 1,017 Portage Avenue and Moray Street 986 Portage Avenue and Main Street 943 Bishop Grandin Boulevard and Waverley Street 919 * * *TOP five worst intersections for vehicle-pedestrian collisions over five-year period 2007-11:* Portage Avenue and Cavalier Drive 9* Henderson Highway and McLeod Avenue 8 McPhillips Street and Jefferson Avenue 8* Isabel Street and William Avenue 7* Osborne Street and River Avenue 7 *denotes location of one of city's photo-enforcement intersection cameras *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition February 23, 2013 A4 *

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WFP: Review of speed limits planned - Province to soon begin wide probe seeking consistent, safe standards (Feb.14'13)
by Beth McKechnie 21 Feb '13

21 Feb '13

Review of speed limits planned Province to soon begin wide probe seeking consistent, safe standards By: Bruce Owen http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/review-of-speed-limits-planned-19117… The Selinger government is days away from announcing a provincewide review of speed limits on Manitoba's roadways. Infrastructure and Highways Minister Steve Ashton said Wednesday the goal of the review is to devise more consistent standards of how speed limits are set on Manitoba's highways and streets, including in Winnipeg and Brandon. That includes addressing the "patchwork-quilt" application of speed limits by municipalities and taking into account newer, better-designed roadways that can handle higher speeds. "You're not going to get one-size-fits-all," Ashton said. "But there are certain basic parameters that do apply and there are ways of dealing with things. "What we're trying to get here, and the balance of the review will reflect that, is making sure that we get the recognition of local realities, but at the same time have some consistent speed limits and guidelines." He said the two basic speed-limit guidelines in Manitoba are that when driving in the city, the speed limit is 50 km/h unless otherwise posted and when driving on the highway, the speed limit is 90 km/h or 100 km/h unless otherwise posted. "We'll look at all those elements," he said. "We're going to look at the general parameters in terms of speed limits and a combination of everything from the convenience side of it to safety. Safety will always be paramount." CAA Manitoba and the Manitoba Trucking Association welcomed the upcoming review, saying it's badly needed to address inconsistencies in how speed limits are determined. "A lot of development has been done over the last 10 to 20 years and as they've added roads, Bishop Grandin and Kenaston, I don't think there's been a lot of consistency," CAA Manitoba vice-president of marketing and sales Tim Scott said. "A lot of roads have been developed from single lanes to two lanes and that makes a big difference. "But the litmus test is always safety." Terry Shaw, general manager of the Manitoba Trucking Association, said more consistent speed limits would mean better efficiencies for the trucking industry. "Efficiency comes through setting speeds based on an informed decision, which comes from a legitimate study," Shaw said. "Our concern is the inconsistencies -- the 60 to 50, the 70 to 50, items like that, the inconsistencies without legitimate reasons or legitimate purpose or inconsistent signage." Ashton said the review -- which will include public consultation -- will not alter the province's position on reduced speeds in school zones. Last year, Ashton introduced legislation to give local authorities the power to create reduced-speed zones for schools. Last August, Winnipeg city council voted unanimously to reduce the speed limit to 30 kilometres per hour in elementary school zones. Last month, a city committee rejected a call to reduce the residential speed limit in Winnipeg from 50 km/h to 40 km/h. A city report said many studies conducted throughout North America showed driver speed is affected by the road conditions and not by speed-limit signs. Ashton said the provincial review is separate from the work of the province's Highway Traffic Board, which is considering raising speed limits on selected stretches of city streets, including sections of Dugald Road, Grant Avenue, Pembina Highway and Waverley Street. The board held public hearings late last fall. However, he added the provincial review will examine the role of both the Highway Traffic Board and the Motor Transport Board. The boards were amalgamated more than a decade ago and serve different functions: The wHighway Traffic Board is responsible for the administration of speed limits, and the Motor Transport Board is responsible for the licensing of truck operations and intercity buses, plus regulating rates for intra-provincial bus operations. The province last increased the speed limit on certain sections of twinned roadways in Manitoba to 110 km/h in July 2009, including the Trans-Canada Highway from the Saskatchewan border to Virden and Highway 75 from the Emerson border crossing to St. Jean Baptiste. bruce.owen(a)freepress.mb.ca *A DRIVING FORCE*: CAA Manitoba recently questioned 8,628 of its members on driving and speeding *How acceptable do you personally feel it is for a driver to drive above the speed limit on a highway?* Completely acceptable 5.8% (498) Somewhat acceptable 43.6% (3,755) Somewhat unacceptable 25.1% (2,161) Completely unacceptable 25.0% (2,155) I don't know 0.04% (34) *How acceptable do you personally feel it is for a driver to drive above the speed limit on a residential street?* Completely acceptable 2.0% (169) Somewhat acceptable 4.7% (400) Somewhat unacceptable 17.2% (1,478) Completely unacceptable 75.8% (6,496) I don't know 0.3% (29) *When on a residential street, how often do you drive over the speed limit?* All the time 0.6% (49) More than half the time 1.5% (130) On occasion 13.8% (1,172) Very rarely 48.0% (4,080) Never 36.0% (3,064) Not applicable 0.1% (12) *When on a highway, how often do you drive over the speed limit?* All the time 6.2% (525) More than half the time 23.6% (2,006) On occasion 38.4% (3,266) Very rarely 24.0% (2,045) Never 7.5% (636) Not applicable 0.4% (34) *Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition February 14, 2013 A3 *

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WFP online: Lower vehicle speeds, separated bike lanes lower risk of cyclist injuries - study (Feb.20,13)
by Beth McKechnie 21 Feb '13

21 Feb '13

Lower vehicle speeds, separated bike lanes lower risk of cyclist injuries; study By: The Canadian Press http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/reduced-vehicle-speeds-separated-bi… TORONTO - Some simple changes to the infrastructure of Canadian cities could go a long way towards keeping the country's biking enthusiasts safe from harm, a team of researchers suggested Wednesday. Erecting physical barriers between traffic and bicycle lanes, ensuring relatively flat commuting surfaces and regulating vehicle speeds all have the potential to curtail cycling injuries on city streets, they said. The findings came from a cross-country team of researchers and was published in the Journal Injury Prevention. The team's objective was to explore the factors that contribute to Canada's strikingly high rate of cycling-related injuries, according to the study's lead author. Anne Harris, assistant professor with Ryerson University's school of Occupational and Public Health, said several previous studies have established that North American cyclists are eight to 30 times more likely to be injured on the road than their counterparts in European countries such as Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands. The figures could not simply be chalked up to cycling volumes, she added. "In the cycling countries of northern Europe, you see a much larger proportion of trips taken by bicycle and much lower injury rates," Harris said in a telephone interview. "We thought one of the reasons that there might be differences is because of the availability of bicycling infrastructure." Harris and her team interviewed 690 cyclists who were injured badly enough to require a trip to a hospital emergency room between May 2008 and November 2009. The injuries came on either the streets of Vancouver or Toronto. Researchers compared the point at which the interview subject got hurt with earlier intersections along the route that were passed without incident. The findings, Harris said, allowed the team to draw some conclusions about potential safety innovations for Canadian city streets. One comparatively simple measure would be the introduction of bike lanes that are physically separated from the street, she said. "Just as we know that separating pedestrians from motor vehicle traffic is a really important thing to do with sidewalks, we're seeing evidence that we need to separate bicyclists from motor vehicles with the use of segregated facilities." Those facilities need not be elaborate or expensive, she said, adding rows of planters are often enough to provide a protective barrier between cars and bikes. Such lanes are the norm in Europe, she said, adding designated bike paths marked out only by a painted line do not offer the same degree of protection. Regulating traffic speeds could also prevent injuries, Harris said, adding accidents were 50 per cent less likely to take place at intersections where traffic moved at 30 kilometres an hour or less. Traffic circles also posed additional dangers to cyclists, the study suggested. Harris said researchers also noted certain types of terrain that were more likely to result in a trip to the hospital. Upward slopes were safer than downward ones, she said, adding flat surfaces offered the most protection of all. Canada's naturally hilly cities would be powerless to address this concern, she conceded, but added centres such as Toronto are ideally equipped to implement infrastructure changes that could have benefits beyond road safety. Increased cycling use, she argued, could have positive ramifications on everything from gridlock to the environment. "Much of the infrastructure changes that would make things safer are also attractive to bicyclists, so it would encourage more people to ride," she said. "It's a public health issue."

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