December 2024 Newsletter
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As we gear down for the year-end festivities, all of us at BC Cycling Coalition would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to YOU - our dedicated supporters and advocates.
Because of your generosity AND VISION, we’ve raised 61% of our $30k for 30km/h goal.
Even in the ramp up to 2025 - the year British Columbia will choose to save lives and healthcare spending by reducing the default speed limit from 50 to 30km/h on neighbourhood streets - we are reflecting on the BCCC’s proudest accomplishments of 2024.
To recap:
We produced the 2024 Active Transportation Summit in collaboration with BC’s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure [MoTI] , where 331 participants from transportation and urban planners to elected officials and First Nations leaders and engineers gathered from 2 days at the Anvil Centre in New Westminster, to cross-pollinate about how to reel in the Province’s active transportation future.
We facilitated BC’s launch of a highly successful summertime bike valet grant program - also because of MoTI support - which induced more bike trips to events, farmers markets, and popular destinations from Victoria to Revelstoke, than we ever could have predicted.
Together with our Motor Vehicle Act [MVA] Reform coalition partners, we helped revise the MVA: As of June 3, 2024, motorists must keep a 1.5 meter minimum distance when passing cyclists and other vulnerable road users, on roads faster than 50km/h.
We supported 6 successful Community Cycling grantees’ projects - from traffic counts to accrue evidence for a Safe Routes to School program on the Sunshine Coast, to a visionary map of the future possible dedicated multi-use path along Highway 24 - from Bridge Lake to Lac des Roches.
Continued to collect and visualize the adopted or in-progress Active Transportation Plans of tens of BC communities - a vital step in raising awareness about more equitable allocation of provincial transportation dollars.
We offered another successful summer of our Kids On Wheels summer balance bike camps at several Vancouver Community Centres, graduating a total of 150 kids.
Lastly, and on a more personal note - 2024 marks the year of my own transition from side hustle cycling advocate to Executive Director of the small but mighty BC Cycling Coalition. Now that I’ve been trying to pedal in Mike’s shoes for nearly 3 months, I’m learning that this is an endurance ride, requiring some magical formula of patience and persistence. I am honored for the opportunity to learn as we roll along, working alongside BCCC’s wonderfully wise and dedicated board, and our fantastic staff. Can’t wait to build our collective FTP in 2025!
If you are itching to build our capacity just a little more in the final week of 2024, our $30k matching donor has agreed to match every donation over $100 we receive before midnight on December 31.
Happy Holidays,
Jen Petersen, Interim Executive Director
If you are itching to build our capacity just a little more in the final week of 2024, our $30k matching donor has agreed to match every donation over $100 received before midnight on December 31.
Please give now!
Celebrating the achievements of our 2024 Community Cycling Grantees
Introduction
In early December, a tragic pedestrian fatality occurred on a notoriously dangerous stretch of highway outside Gibsons. This was the third fatality in the area since 2007, highlighting a critical need for safer infrastructure for vulnerable road users. In response, local organizations and partners came together to conduct a study addressing pedestrian and cyclist safety near local schools. This study, led by Transportation Choices Sunshine Coast (TraC), the Sunshine Coast School District (SD46), and Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH), aims to protect children and make active transportation safer for all.
Why was this study important?
The Sunshine Coast faces many locations where the risk of accidents is high, especially for pedestrians and cyclists. With the support of TraC, SD46, and VCH, the study focused on two particularly dangerous intersections near elementary schools in Gibsons and Sechelt. By gathering data and advocating for safer infrastructure, this project fits into a larger vision of improving active transportation across the region.
The Vision for the Sunshine Coast’s Future
The Sunshine Coast has long been home to passionate advocates for active transportation, including the Connect the Coast Society and TraC. Their goal is to build safer, more connected routes for cyclists and pedestrians. This study fits within that broader vision of creating a more walkable and bike-friendly Sunshine Coast.
Key Stakeholders and Their Roles
TraC: Led the study and coordinated efforts across various partners.
SD46: Provided crucial background research on traffic safety around schools.
VCH: Contributed expertise on public health and policy, particularly regarding active school travel.
Consultant: Gavin Davidson of GJD Planning and Design provided guidance and expertise in data collection and analysis.
Data Collection and Analysis
Over a two-week period, volunteers from the local community, including parents and school staff, collected vital data on pedestrian, cyclist, and vehicle traffic volumes at the identified intersections. The team used radar guns to track vehicle speeds, uncovering alarming instances of speeding in school zones. GJD then analyzed the data, leading to strong recommendations for pedestrian-activated crossings to improve safety.
Challenges and Solutions
One of the main challenges was navigating the jurisdictional complexities between local governments and the Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MOTT). Despite these hurdles, the study progressed smoothly, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the ongoing support of local governments and organizations.
What’s Next?
The report recommends the installation of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) and other safety measures at both intersections. While funding remains a challenge, the team has begun sharing the findings with key stakeholders to raise awareness and advocate for necessary changes. Future efforts will continue to focus on securing funding and pushing for action from MOTT to protect all road users, especially children.
Call to Action
This is just the beginning. As the team works to implement these recommendations, local residents and advocates are encouraged to stay engaged and continue advocating for safer roads. Together, we can make the Sunshine Coast a safer place for everyone. With continued collaboration and community support, this project has the potential to save lives and create a safer, more sustainable transportation environment for future generations.
Looking for a podcast to cozy up with over the holidays?
Could slowing down traffic save lives?
What if a simple policy change could dramatically decrease road injuries and elevate community well-being? Dr. Michael Schwandt, Medical Health Officer for Vancouver Coastal Health, helps us unravel the transformative potential of a 30 km/hour speed limit on residential streets in British Columbia. We examine how this seemingly small adjustment could significantly reduce traffic fatalities and injuries, while fostering a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians alike.
From debunking misconceptions about cycling to advocating for safer infrastructure, this episode reveals the multifaceted strategies essential for creating more inviting communities. We explore the implications of transportation policies, such as the often-overlooked dangers of right turns on red lights, and discuss the collaboration needed between local governments and public health authorities to champion safe cycling and pedestrian practices. Tune in to discover how these changes could not only revolutionize safety but also enhance mental and physical well-being across communities.
Kids On Wheel's Growing Impact
Learn about the KOW licensed partnership - supporting your communities’ own implementation of this popular cycling program for tots, at daycares and community centres around the province.
We’re expanding our popular summer balance bike camps from westside and North Vancouver community centres to South and East Vancouver. If you’d like to see your own community centre offer a cycling summer camp for kids aged 2-6, we want to hear from you!
Interested in receiving a fully funded 5-day cycling education program at your elementary school?
Everyone Rides Grade 4-5 is seeking smaller communities in BC interested in receiving a fully funded 5-day cycling education program at their elementary schools this spring 2025, fall 2025, and spring 2026.
For more information or to get involved please see our program webpage or contact everyonerides@bikehub.ca.