emailTravel Choices Bicycle Strategy
The CRD Bicycle Strategy is one component of the strategic transportation plan for the Capital Region, known as TravelChoices. The goals and objectives of TravelChoices support one of the key principles of the Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) — access to a full range of transportation options.
The Bicycle Strategy, released in August 2003, identifies ways to improve safety for cyclists, and to make cycling a more attractive means of transportation.
Key initiatives of the strategy are:
- A continuous network of bicycle routes throughout the region,
- Accommodation of cycling on all new or rebuilt facilities within a priority network, and retrofitting of facilities on a prioritized basis,
- Safer crossings at major roadways
- More secure bicycle parking and additional integration with public transit, and
- Initiatives such as consistent design practices, promotional programs like the Bike to Work Week and proficiency programs.
History
In 1976 the CRD, City of Victoria and District of Saanich worked in partnership to develop a bicycle route to Camosun College, reflecting the importance of cycling in the region at the time. Since then over 200 kilometres of cycling routes have been developed. The Galloping Goose Trail to the West Shore and the Lochside Trail to the Saanich Peninsula have also been completed, and now play an integral part in recreational and commuter activity throughout the region. Furthermore, municipalities have implemented an extensive network of bike only lanes on existing road rights-of-way.
The effects of these cycling plans are reflected in the CRD having the highest bike mode share of any major Canadian metropolitan region (3% for all trips, 4% for work trips). Both the Regional Growth Strategy (RGS) and TravelChoices have specific objectives to build on the success of past initiatives to persuade more people to take more bike trips.
Current Initiatives
The CRD in partnership with the South Island Corridor Foundation and municipal partners are now planning a bike trail from Goldstream Park to Downtown Victoria on the E&N Rail alignment. When finished in 2010, the E&N Rail Trail will enhance the existing bicycle trail network, and provide more opportunities for cycling. Also in Spring 2007, the CRD Select Committee on TravelChoices established a sub-committee for the planning and implementation of pedestrian and cycling initiatives across the region.
- Frequently Asked Questions (PDF
)
Recently, CRD Regional Planning staff have met with staff from various municipalities to discuss the establishment of an inter-municipal working group to draft a Bicycle Master Plan for the region.
Regional Cycling Network Maps
A key element of the TravelChoices Strategy is the proposed Regional Cycling Network, which suggests expanding the existing municipal network of on-street cycling routes to more than 550 kilometres. Please refer to the following maps.
- CRD Recommended Regional Cycling Network (PDF )
- Core Existing Bikeways by Classification (PDF )
- Peninsula Recommended Regional Cycling Network (PDF )
- Peninsula Existing Bikeways by Classification (PDF )
- West Shore Recommended Regional Cycling Network (PDF )
- West Shore Existing Bikeways by Classification (PDF )