March 7, 2018…

March 7, 2018

Katerina Minaeva

Senior Policy Analyst

Ministry of Transportati, to expand the paved shoulder widths along rural roads from the current 0.5m up to 1.2m and 1.5m. Studies indicate there is a direct correlation between wider shoulder widths and reduced accident rates. This is something which should be considered on all Provincial roadways.

4.Answers to some of your specific questions:

Will the proposed initiatives help us achieve Ontario’s goals for cycling?

We believe the proposed actions are a good start in moving forward on the promotion of cycling, expanding cycling infrastructure and the overall profile enhancement of cycling within Ontario. There are still some topic areas that need to be looked at, such as how the private sector and workplaces can participate in this process. In addition, we need to further explore where and how the development industry can also contribute to building, maintaining and promoting cycling and cycling infrastructure across the Province.

What challenges should we expect to encounter as we pursue the proposed initiatives?

Municipal budgets are constrained and Provincial budgets are focused on transit improvements particularly across the Greater Toronto Area. While these are welcome investments, there is a parallel need to invest in active transportation connections that improve access to major transit areas and enable more people to cycle to and from transit.

Are there other important actions that Ontario should take in the next 5 years to help us meet our goals for cycling?

The development of a “Centre of Excellence for Cycling” would be a great initiative to showcase and educate Ontarians on best practices, and to support on-going work in cycling related activities.

Please advise me if you have any questions on the above comments, you can reach me at 905-668-7711 ext. 2566 or at anthony.caruso@durham.ca

Sincerely,

Original Signed by

Anthony Caruso

Anthony Caruso, Senior Planner

Transportation Planning

cc: Prasenjit Roy, Manager, Transportation Planning

[Original Comment ID: 213513]