Plan to Improve Commuter…

Plan to Improve Commuter Cycling Networks

What infrastructure should be prioritized to make cycling in Ontario safer and more convenient to support commuter cycling between residential communities, major transit stations, employment areas and other destinations travelled to on a frequent basis?

A: Focussing on connectivity between already existing cycling infrastructure should be a priority. There are many routes that simply become unusable for some cyclists due to unsafe underpasses/ bridges and other barriers. By investing in small projects that connect routes and paths, our urban ( and sometimes rural) cycling networks are greatly increased. These projects are often overlooked by municipalities as they do not have the "Wow" factor of more bike lanes, but anyone who cycles can tell you that lack connectivity is a huge problem in many areas across the province.

What evidence can demonstrate the impact of cycling infrastructure investments on the number of cyclists and on GHG emissions? 

A: Programs such as Bike to Work Month offer insight into increases of new commuter cyclists and this can be correlated to better infrastructure around certain workhubs.

Local Cycling Infrastructure
For local cycling networks, what types of cycling infrastructure would best support commuter cycling between residential communities, major transit stations, employment areas and other destinations travelled to on a frequent basis?

A: Safe secure bike parking facilities, maintenance hubs (air pumps, tools to change a flat) and good lighting as many routes become very dark in the later parts of the year

Provincial Cycling Infrastructure
What types of cycling infrastructure on provincial highways would best support commuter cycling between residential communities, major transit stations, employment areas and other destinations travelled to on a frequent basis?

A; Paved shoulders with occasional pull outs. Both drivers and cyclists feel better with cyclists off the road when the speed limit is 60+ km/hr

Bicycle Parking
What types of bike parking facilities (e.g., bike racks, lockers, fee-based enclosures) are needed to support cycling for commuting and other frequent trips?

A: Covered when possible, lit at night or at least in visible areas, NOT FEE BASED as we are trying to encourage cycling, not add another barrier!

What types of government-owned, publicly accessible facilities should have bike parking?

A:Hospitals, all schools, all publicly accessible facilities that currently have car parking.

What types of transit or transportation stations should have bike parking to support improved cyclist access (e.g., GO Stations, LRT stations, bus terminals)?

A: All transit hubs should have visible, accessible bike parking if it is within 5 km of a residential or work hub.

What types of private facilities could potentially be eligible to receive provincial funding for bicycle parking facilities?

A: Employers, Landlords and Building Management Companies

[Original Comment ID: 201612]