As part of B.C. on the Move, the Government of B.C.’s new 10-year transportation plan, the ministry is committing $6 million in BikeBC funding this year to expand and build cycling lanes, trails and paths for B.C. families.

During consultations for B.C. on the Move, the ministry heard that enhanced cycling infrastructure and improved transportation choices are important to British Columbians. As a result, the Government of B.C. will invest $18 million over the next three years through the BikeBC cost-sharing program to help local governments build projects that attract and support commuter, recreational and tourism cyclists and pedestrians.

This year’s program is anticipated to generate at least $12 million in cycling infrastructure. Since 2001, the B.C. government has committed more than $155 million for cycling infrastructure, creating new bicycle lanes and trails in over 100 communities across the province.

To be considered for funding, local governments must describe how the projects benefit their communities and how they contribute to increased physical activity and healthy living, as part of their active community plans. The ministry will also be looking at how a project can increase tourism cycling.

The deadline for applications is May 15, 2015. Local governments can apply online at: www.th.gov.bc.ca/BikeBC

If communities have questions regarding the BikeBC funding program they can contact the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure at: motcycling@gov.bc.ca

B.C. on the Move is government’s new 10-year plan for the improvement of the province’s transportation network. It provides a comprehensive road map for transportation investments and strategic policy actions over the next decade. The actions prioritized in B.C. on the Move will enhance safety, grow the economy, maintain and replace aging infrastructure, and support trade for B.C.’s expanding resource sectors through Canada’s Asia-Pacific Gateway.

Over the next three years, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will invest almost $2.5 billion to improve British Columbia’s transportation network.

B.C. on the Move was developed incorporating feedback received from a wide-ranging public engagement, during which over 12,500 survey responses were received from British Columbians throughout the province, and the B.C. on the Move website was visited over 44,000 times.

Quote:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone -

“This is great news for communities, with 50% more funding dedicated to cycling infrastructure projects. When we recently talked to British Columbians about our new 10-year transportation plan, many local governments and community organizations indicated that improvements to cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, trails, networks are among their highest priorities.”

Learn More:

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

Media Contacts:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241