September 16, 2008 (Vancouver, BC) – Cyclists throughout British Columbia will benefit from new, safe and high-quality cycling trails, bike lanes, bike lockers and more, thanks to Bike BC, a $31-million program for cycling infrastructure, Premier Gordon Campbell announced today.

“Cycling is a great option for people who want to stay healthy, save money, and reduce their carbon footprint,” said Premier Campbell. “Government is supporting those choices through Bike BC — one of the largest investments the Province has ever made in building and improving cycling infrastructure in communities across the province. This will enhance cycling as an option for people to commute, run errands or spend their leisure time.”

Bike BC funding brings the total cycling investment the Province has made since 2001 to $114 million. That investment has helped build more than 220 kilometres of cycling paths in over 50 communities across B.C. The program is a strategic investment to build important cycling corridors of regional and provincial significance and will be awarded province-wide over the next three years. Some possible projects are new bike trails and cycling lanes, improvements to existing cycling infrastructure, and providing for bike lockers and other equipment that makes cycling a safer and more convenient option for travellers.

“Cycling benefits us all and is good for the environment, and we are committed to encouraging people to get out of their cars and onto their bikes,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Kevin Falcon.

One of the projects already benefiting from Bike BC is the expansion of the Central Valley Greenway through Vancouver. The City of Vancouver and its partners are extending the cycling trail by two kilometres, to reach False Creek. The Province will commit $250,000 towards the completion of this section, which has a total cost of $1.8 million. The Province has previously committed $4 million to the development of the Central Valley Greenway.

Cycling is a key component of the Province’s strategy for encouraging healthy living and addressing climate change, in conjunction with the Climate Action Plan and the Provincial Transit Plan. More Information is available as well at LiveSmart BC.