A new multi-use bike path will be built in Castlegar as part of this year’s BikeBC funding to expand and build cycling lanes, trails and paths throughout B.C., contributing to increased physical activity and helping reduce greenhouse gases.

The City of Castlegar received $100,000 from BikeBC for the multi-use paved path that will be one kilometre long and run from 20th Street via Connors Road to 17th Street and Columbia Avenue. The total project cost is approximately $250,000. This path will improve the safety of cyclists by providing an alternate route to detour around the busy Highway 22/Highway 3 interchange.

This is one of 16 projects in 13 communities throughout British Columbia that will receive more than $1.18 million in BikeBC funding this year. BikeBC is a cost-sharing program between the Government of B.C. and local governments. This year’s investment will help create more than $2.36 million in cycling infrastructure.

Cycling is a key component of the B.C. government’s strategy for encouraging healthy living and addressing climate change, in conjunction with the Climate Action Plan and the Provincial Transit Plan.

Quotes:

Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Coralee Oakes on behalf of Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone -

“The Government of B.C. is encouraging active lifestyles and viable transportation options for B.C. families. This BikeBC grant for a multi-use bike path in Castlegar will help residents in the community participate in healthy physical activity and support a greener environment at the same time.”

Mayor of Castlegar Lawrence Chernoff -

“The City of Castlegar is extremely pleased to receive this substantial funding from the provincial government and BikeBC to help improve our cycling infrastructure. The City has been working to encourage healthy living in our community as well as promoting actions to mitigate climate change and this project is a key element in building the City’s cycling network.”

Quick Facts:

• Since 2001, the B.C. government has committed over $150 million in cycling infrastructure, creating new bicycle lanes and trails in over 90 communities.
• Last year, the B.C. government committed $7.36 million in BikeBC funding throughout the province.
• Cycling 10 kilometres to and from work every day would reduce your greenhouse gas emissions by 15,000 kg a year.
• Cycling eight kilometres is equal to 30 minutes of moderate exercise.

Learn More:

For more information about BikeBC, visit: www.th.gov.bc.ca/BikeBC

Media Contacts:

Lisanne Bowness
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 387-5710