(flickr.com)

Media Contacts

Media Relations

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

Backgrounders

What people are saying about Move. Commute. Connect.

Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer –

“As the provincial health officer of B.C., I fully support the objectives and actions outlined in the new Active Transportation Strategy. Moving toward active transportation has the potential to simultaneously increase the physical activity of British Columbians, reduce motor vehicle crash injuries and fatalities, as well as improve environmental health that affects us all.”

Rick Hansen, founder, Rick Hansen Foundation –

“The Government of British Columbia’s active transportation strategic framework can help position us as the most inclusive, healthy and green province in the federation. I like that it is inclusive and representative of citizens of all abilities and appreciate that it inspires everyone to be active while helping with connectivity by helping get people where they need to go. Having recently marked the 34th anniversary of my Man in Motion tour, this inclusive strategy is something I can definitely support and get behind.”

Chris McElroy, community recreation co-ordinator, Songhees Nation –

“Complete multi-use pathways support our communities by offering people the opportunity to commute using active transportation modes, both for work and fun.  I know first-hand that the completion of the E&N trail system has been beneficial for the Songhees Wheelness Bike Share Program and for members of the lək̓ʷəŋən territory.  This new strategy will promote active communities around the province.”

Shannon Turner, chair, BC Alliance for Healthy Living –

“The BC Alliance for Healthy Living is pleased that this government has demonstrated its commitment to healthier communities with the release of this Active Transportation Strategy, and we’re looking forward to seeing it roll out across the province. Complete networks will provide people with a way to build physical activity into their daily travels and connect with their community. This is important because physical inactivity is a major risk factor for numerous chronic diseases. So an investment in active transportation is an investment in health and wellness.”

Kevin Desmond, CEO, TransLink –

“TransLink applauds the introduction of the Active Transportation Strategy and particularly commends the provincial government for emphasizing the importance of safety and 'vision zero' principles. For many years, we at TransLink have strongly advocated the benefits of active transportation through partnership programs with cities throughout the region. I look forward to working with the Province and its regional partners to advance this important strategy.”

Dale Bracewell, manager, transportation planning, City of Vancouver –

“Building complete active transportation networks for people of all ages and abilities has proven to help us accommodate the growth of people trips in the City of Vancouver. We are excited about this new Active Transportation Strategy and the partnerships that will emerge to enable more opportunities for people to walk, bike and roll in their communities. Promoting healthy, safe and affordable mobility choices is the future across B.C. We look forward to working with the Province to double the percentage of active trips by 2030, the same horizon year as our Climate Emergency Response.”

Jeff Bray, executive director, Downtown Victoria Business Association –

“Downtown Victoria residents, visitors, business owners, workers and students move around the downtown core in many ways — walking, biking, skateboarding, riding the bus, carpooling and driving. It’s key that provincial, regional, and municipal governments work together to improve walking, biking and other active mobility options for everyone. A provincial-led, people-focused Active Transportation Strategy that considers both the needs and the aspirations of cities like Victoria ensures that downtowns remain the backbone of a strong economy and continue to provide a high quality of life for its citizens.”

Tom Green, climate solutions policy analyst, David Suzuki Foundation –

“Safe biking and walking routes, connected transit and street design that incorporates nature are not just essential to tackling climate breakdown, but also for our health and well-being. Now is the time for bold actions to ramp up active transportation across B.C.”

Taylor Bachrach, mayor of Smithers –

"It's encouraging to see the ministry emphasize active transportation, particularly the creation of safe, accessible, dedicated infrastructure for all ages and abilities. The more we can help people get around using active modes, the healthier, more connected and more sustainable our communities will be. I look forward to seeing the vision articulated in the strategic framework become a reality in communities of all sizes."

Amanda Macdonald, chair, Walk On, Victoria –

“Walking is a healthy and environmentally friendly form of transportation that fosters vibrant communities and provides an enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike. Despite these benefits and the popularity of walking, the interests of pedestrians are often overlooked. We are pleased to see the Province’s Active Transportation Strategy puts the needs of pedestrians front and centre. Considering the needs of pedestrians in transportation systems makes walking safer and more enjoyable, which will encourage more people to walk as a form of transportation and recreation.”

Rafael Villarreal, manager, Integrated Transportation Department, City of Kelowna –

“We are all active transportation users at some point in our daily lives. The provincial strategy helps raise the profile of active transportation and begins to address some of the gaps and barriers that traditionally have affected British Columbia. The City of Kelowna looks forward to partnering with the Province to achieve the objectives of the new strategy.”