November 03, 2016 (Ontario) – This proposal notice invites members of the public to review and comment on the province’s proposed plan to implement actions identified in the Climate Change Action Plan to promote cycling.
Description of Policy:
The Ontario Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is proposing actions to accelerate and enhance implementation of #CycleON: Ontario’s Cycling Strategy by improving commuter cycling networks in Ontario (see links section). Ontario’s Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) identifies an intended investment of $150 to $225 million from cap and trade proceeds to support the creation of better cycling networks, more cycling facilities in urban areas, and more bike parking at transit stations and provincially owned, publicly accessible facilities.
MTO has developed a discussion paper to serve as the basis of our consultation (see links section). The paper highlights key challenges to increased cycling in Ontario and how the province proposes to address them. Towards the end of the discussion paper, several questions are asked and we invite you to provide us with your comments.
– Local Cycling Infrastructure – The province would help municipalities build cycling infrastructure that improves safety in urban areas and supports commuter cycling between residential communities, major transit stations, employment areas and other destinations travelled to on a frequent basis. Eligible infrastructure would include on- and off-road cycling facilities such as painted bike lanes, paved shoulders, cycling lanes separated by a curb, off-road multi-use paths and associated infrastructure (e.g., cycling signals, signs).
– Provincial Cycling Infrastructure – The province would fund initiatives that will address provincial barriers (such as highways and bridges) that impact local cycling networks. Additionally, the government would make direct investments in provincial highways in urban areas to create the conditions to increase cycling for commuting and other frequent trips, where safe and feasible to do so. Infrastructure funded under this component could include on- and off-road cycling facilities (e.g., painted bike lanes, paved shoulders, cycling lanes separated by a curb, off-road multi-use paths), active transportation bridges and associated infrastructure (e.g., cycling signals, signs).
– Bicycle Parking – The province would support construction of bike racks, bike shelters, bike lockers and bike enclosures at government-owned, publicly accessible facilities, transit stations and potentially private facilities such as workplaces and condominiums, where cycling for commuting and other frequent trips is reasonable. Constructing bike storage facilities at destinations can make it easier for people to choose active transportation for day-to-day trips. Having bike parking at transit stations can make it possible for people to bike to and from transit, allowing them to leave cars at home and add physical activity to commutes.
More on Public Input request here.
More on #CycleON Provincial Cycling Strategy here.