Dear Katerina,…

Dear Katerina,

The ,” the realities of travel and life in Northern Ontario are much different than in Southern Ontario, given the climate and physical conditions when applying active transportation initiatives. This is an area the Province can consult with local RPPs and that can provide local context and strategic direction.

For the specific initiatives of “Include cycling infrastructure in Provincial highway construction projects using the Province-wide cycling network as a foundation” and “Develop a program to support municipal implementation of the Province-wide cycling network,” we recommend MTO allow for, and fund, the planning and design of active transportation infrastructure on Ministry infrastructure in partnership with municipalities, including 400-series highway interchanges, to increase cyclist safety and accessibility. Implementing a Province-wide cycling network is a worthy goal to achieve, but MTO must be a partner and assist when this infrastructure is being funded and built to attain an improved and connected network.

3) Are there other important actions that Ontario should take in the next five years to help us meet our goals for cycling?

In addition to the above comments and feedback, we offer the following additional suggestions that the Province should take into consideration over the next five years:

• Update the Planning Act to strengthen requirements to support a better cycling environment

oUnder the strategic direction of Design Healthy, Active and Prosperous Communities, we recommend the Province work with municipalities and stakeholders to update the Planning Act in support of cycling infrastructure and programs in reducing single-occupant vehicle trips in the development approval process.

• Work with municipalities to collect cycling data to track behaviour change

oUnder the strategic direction of Promote Cycling Awareness and Behaviour Shifts, we

recommend the Province work with municipalities and stakeholders to develop and fund monitoring programs to gather cycling data to track progress. This may include funding for bicycle counter installation on cycling facilities and/or procurement of third-party cycling data.

[Original Comment ID: 213534]