Golden Active Transportation

Moving on up!

2010-10-07T11:53:00.000-06:00

Over the next day or too, all content will be moved from here, over to the new website!

The address is goldenactivetransportation.com.

If you would like to guest blog or anything, please let me know and i will see what we can do. We are always looking for more ways to get the message out to people!

Fall update

2010-10-05T16:51:00.001-06:00

Hope everyone, hope you had a great summer. The Active Transportation group has been quite busy other the last few months.

Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure Update

We have been talking with MOTI about getting signage changed on the bridge over the Kicking Horse river. Whilst agreeing in principal and ordering the signs, they have yet to appear. So we are still working with them to get the signs up.

Golden Hill update

We have received plans from Focus group on the construction of a trail that is grade separated all the way down Golden Hill. TOG has had discussions with both Kicking Horse Canyon Project and the Honourable Minister Shirley Bond for MOTI about the hill. They have advised us that it is a go ahead! This is a particularly import piece of infrastructure as it links Pine Drive with town and has the opportunity to reduce t he car dependency up on Pine Drive. We are awaiting formal confirmation. However the Minister had a meeting with the Mayor Christina Benty and various council memebers, at UBCM (Union of British Columbia Municipalities) about the project. We are very excited that this has the go ahead, as it has the opportunity to change many lives and make Golden truly connected!

Safe Routes to school

Before summer we began talks with Lady Grey Elementary and SD6 Operations department about encouraging walking and biking among other things for their students year round. We thought it was prudent to target Kids as starting them off on a healthy footing is a life long trait that they can carry on. The school is instituting a 20 minute "workout" in the morning to get kids awake and active. Research as shown that kids that are awake and healthy are more focused and take in the material that is being presented to them. With this in mind we would like to work on making it safer for kids to walk to school.

Crossing guards

Part of the Safe Routes to school is creating a safe path for kids to cross from one side of the highway to other. Active Transportation is looking at how we can get crossing guards at the lights and also at the crossing on 11th St S. This would not only slow down traffic on Highway 95 but also make people more aware that kids are crossing the highway. This could possibly be done on a volunteer basis with parents on a rotation or other means.

Pace Car program

The Pace Car program has proven to be effective in Nova Scotia at reducing speeding and calming traffic. Making it safe and more friendly to use forms of Active Transportation. From the Saferoutesns.ca website:

"The Pace Car program helps stop speeding on neighbourhood streets. It’s simple – drivers in your community sign the Pace Car pledge, and then proudly display the official Pace Car emblems on their cars. By agreeing to drive within the speed limit, cars become “mobile speed bumps,” slowing the traffic behind them. Drivers also agree to be more aware of and courteous to other road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists. Many Pace Cars can effectively calm traffic throughout your neighbourhood. The more people who join, the better it works!"

Community Bike Program

TOG is working on establishing a community bike program. Where you can rent a bike from a station in town, use it and then return it to another location in town. This will be a semi automated system. We are one of the first in BC or western Canada to use this system, so it will be great to see it up and running. The bikes are awaiting their custom powder coating, and will be ready for action next spring. Keep an eye out for them around town! If you have any questions regarding this, please contact Sarah Wegelin at the town or i can direct you in the right direction.

Bike Valet

The bike valet program was a success this year at the Summer Kicks Program. So much so that the racks were over flowing at several concerts. It is hoped that the Valet will occur next year and be possibly be expanded to include the farmer market and any community event. If you have a community event, we can come and setup outside. There is no charge to this service. Donations are welcome though, and go toward Active Transportation funding.

Logo

We now have a logo! Check it on Flickr, or on the Facebook group!

Meetings

I will be presenting at the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services and also at the Parents Advisory Committee meeting tomorrow. If you would like to attend, contact me and i will give you the locations and times.

Get Involved!

All the projects that Active Transportation group has going need help in getting them started and running. We need help writing grants for various programs. If you would like to Volunteer in anyway please contact me and we can discuss options.

Thanks.

Luke

Dutch Biking

2010-10-05T10:16:00.000-06:00

Does this feel like you sometimes?

This video comes from a very good post over at The Media Consortium. The same can be said of Canada in regards to transportation. To long have we focused on the car as the solution to every problem. In town, it takes the same amount of time to get most places as it does in a car when on bike. Slightly more when walking, but that is a slower pace of seeing the world.

Quote

2010-10-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

If you are not prepared to be wrong you'll not come up with anything original"

-Arthur Orsini 2010

Quote

2010-10-03T10:00:00.000-06:00

"If you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far, go together"

-African Saying

New Video!

2010-09-30T12:18:00.003-06:00

Golden has been featured in a new film by BCRPA about Active Transportation.

Check it out!

This is a result of the BEAT grant that was applied for an received by the Town of Golden. The money was used to obtain an Active Transportation Plan, and also for constructing new sidewalks, outside of Town, and on the newly developed 12th Street.

The section on Golden starts at 6:40 ish minute mark.

New Logo!

2010-09-30T10:27:00.000-06:00

Over the next few days the logo on the site and the website and Facebook group, will be getting a make over. We have an identity now, so moving forward you will get to know the look and feel of Golden Active Transportation.

Look out for the changes all around!

Also we got some really awesome beyond fantastic news. I can't let it slip yet, but rest assured everyone that wants a more active lifestyle will be really excited.

Quote

2010-09-30T10:00:00.002-06:00

Our work is urgent, we must go slow.

-Unknown

Women Cycling

2010-09-17T10:03:00.000-06:00

Women In Motion: New Lady Riders Reflect on NYC Cycling from Streetfilms on Vimeo.

The world over, women are seen as an "indicator species" of how good cycling infrastructure is. This is because women have more concern for their safety than men, generally speaking. When more women cycle, there is a growing consensus that it is safe and more people join.

What do you think can help increase the number of women cyclists?

Hot at the moment

2010-09-10T10:06:00.000-06:00

Can you see why?

Money money

2010-09-08T14:41:00.000-06:00

We all know that money doesn't grow on trees. This graph from Good (below also) Shows how much money is being spent by the US Department of Transportation each year on Cycling and walking improvements. Think we could get either the BC government or the Feds to match up to 10% of that? Not likely, the fact is cycling and walking are still in infancy here in Canada. The cities are just starting to catch up. Why can't Golden be a leader in that? Setting examples to others that increase the different modes of transport all year round.

Is this you?

2010-08-31T12:13:00.000-06:00

Originally seen on Quickrelease.tv

New Public Space!

2010-08-18T15:57:00.000-06:00

Golden has some new public space. Its on main street. You know where, next to Johnson Meiers and across from the Optometrist. It is at the back of Cox and Company. The table with Chairs, and the other sidewalk chair are fantastic! Before it was just wasted space, now its usable. Think about all the people at lunch that work in town that can now use the space. People passing thru can now stop and have lunch in the heart of town too!

Great work goes to the Town of Golden!

(I'll try and get some pictures up in the next day or so.)

DIY Streets

2010-08-10T16:40:00.000-06:00

I love this idea that streets can be created by residents.

It would be interesting to see if this idea can fly in Canadian towns and cities.

Community Bike Program Becomes A Reality

2010-08-09T17:09:00.001-06:00

The Town of Golden and key community members have been working for over 3 years to create a new community bike share program. Today, the town liaison announced that the project is in full swing with 25 bikes being ordered and will be sending them to be custom painted in the next three weeks. The bicycles will be assembled and maintained by Summit Cycle, our local Kona dealer. Thanks Jerome!

In the coming weeks a decision will be made on hub locations, payment methods, and locking systems (a few options are currently being considered).

This is hopefully a stepping stone for further development of an active transportation network of trails and on street commuting infrastructure.

There will be more information in the coming weeks.

Banff planters

2010-08-06T14:56:00.001-06:00

Canmore planters
Originally uploaded by Gussy (Luke)

I saw these planters whilst in Banff recently. They are made from Concrete and look to be on metal skids that a forklift could pick up and load onto a truck for the winter. They look really function and could also double as a bench in summer too, if built correctly.

Golden-Hagen?

2010-08-06T09:04:00.000-06:00

This video got me thinking that we too can have a people friendly town.

There is nothing stopping us from implementing slower speeds and more interaction with neighbours and other people we meet on the streets. If we really want a town that people want to visit, we need to create it throughout the whole town. Not just in certain districts or areas.

Need for a legitimate Active Transportation Coalition?

2010-08-05T15:25:00.003-06:00

As requirements, attitudes and perceptions change towards non motorized transport in our community, the question of creating a formalized advocacy coalition presents itself. Utilizing the mandates set forth by the BC Cycling Coalition and the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition (arguably the best cycling advocates in British Columbia) we would have much more clout when it comes to bargaining and approaching local and provincial government for public works projects. A coalition consisting of five or six key community members could offer input to our town council. At present, GAT is an informal group of community members seeking a positive change in community transportation. With the creation of a coalition, GAT would essentially become a not for profit society which could work along side the BC Cycling Coalition and other advocacy groups to create change.

With objectives such as a commuter trail from Nicholson to Golden, safe cycling access from Pine Drive into downtown Golden, the creation of community cycling lanes and even a community bike share program there needs to be a representative body that will manage these projects and ensure that they are brought to fruition.

So...are there enough people in our community who actually give a crap about the rights of cyclists and pedestrians? That is still in contention.

Sidewalk Cycling

2010-08-03T10:03:00.000-06:00

It is also against the law in BC for cyclist to ride on the Sidewalk. If you would like to know more about safe cycling, please comment or look for the Bike Valet at the Summer Kicks programs.

New signage!

2010-07-26T15:13:00.000-06:00

Golden Active Transportation has been working on this for a while, so it is a minor victory. We have been talking and working with the Ministry of Transportation about making the signage for the bridge in Golden friendly for bikes.

There currently isn't a sign that lets people know that they can encounter people on bikes on the bridge. The new sign will be a yellow sign showing a car and bicycle side by side (I have tried to find one to show but my searches have been coming up empty). This is a great improvement to what is currently not existent in letting people know that bikes are on the bridge. It lets cars know that they could encounter bikes on the bridge and to slow down. This move should also help with getting bikes off the bridge and onto the roadway where they belong. Creating a safer passageway for Pedestrians using the bridge.

If you have an questions, please list them in the Comments. We are hoping to get notified of date the sign is being put up and be there to watch and take photos when it happen. It will be a good day when it happens.

How to ride in traffic

2010-07-21T09:06:00.000-06:00

I really like this series called "10 secrets to cycling with Traffic", it is a short 10 parter (obviously). It is from Toronto, so more geared toward how to ride in a big city. Saying that, it is still applicable here in Golden. There are many points that are quite valid, like signalling, lane usage and other helpful tips.

Bike Valet

2010-07-20T10:34:00.000-06:00

For the last few weeks, Golden Active Transportation has been offering a Bike Valet service at all of the Summer Kicks events being put on by Kicking Horse Culture. So far it has been a great success and we would love to see more people use the service that is being provided for free. So why not ride your bike down, park it at the Valet, and have a great evening of music.

We are also going to be at all of the future events for the rest of the summer too!

Hope to see you all on Thursday!

Community Pace Car

2010-06-24T09:57:00.000-06:00

Having a look around the internet I have seen a really cool idea. It is a voluntary approach to driving within the speed limit and stopping for all people crossing the road and giving adequate distance when passing on a bike. You sign an agreement that you will participate. I think the idea is really good. It started possibly in New Zealand or California.

Cyclicious reports on it, as does Urban Velo.

The Basic premise is explained on the New Zealand website.

"Pace car volunteers sign a pledge to drive within the speed limit on local streets, stop for pedestrians, drive courteously, and display a Pace Car Sticker on their vehicles. Pace car drivers act as “mobile speed bumps,” slowing the flow of traffic behind them. The more Pace car drivers in a neighborhood the better it works."

Do you think something like this would fly in Golden?

Kicking Horse Country Transit Workshop

2010-06-03T12:42:00.000-06:00

There is a workshop coming up, it is on the Kicking Horse Country Transit system. This is your time to discuss options to create a better system. Get Vocal and come along! You do need to register, via either emailing or phone (Both of which i will provide later).

It is important to get a transit system that is most useful to as many people as possible. It not only helps reduce traffic, it also helps to create community.

Some of the topics covered will be-

-when do adults, seniors, students, and youth need to travel, and where to?
· how would you rank the above passenger categories, in terms of priority transit users, and why?
· possible changes to bus stop locations?
· how can we better market public transit to potential users?
· how should public transit be funded?

So if you wanted to catch the bus, register and come along. It is a place where your voice can be heard, and maybe things will change for the better because you came.

Kicking Horse Country Transit Workshop Link

Imagine

2010-06-02T09:27:00.000-06:00

This is what LA looks like without cars. Can you imagine Golden without cars? I can, its peaceful and beautiful. I always like the public holidays and Sundays. People walk to Overwaitea, you can hear the rustling of the trees. Enjoy.

Running on Empty from Ross Ching on Vimeo.

Pin It!! May 31- June 6

2010-05-28T15:24:00.000-06:00

WWF-Canada has created the new public mobilization campaign Pin It For the Planet which encourages Canadians to go car-free from May 31-June 6. The public is invited to participate by pinning their car key to their shirt for one week and opting to walk, bike, or take public transit to work, school, shopping or other daily trips. WWF-Canada has a contribution tracker on their website, to help Canadians see how much they are helping the environment by going car-free. Help spread the word! To find out how, visit the Pin It For The Planet webpage.

You might be surprised how much fun riding to work is and how much better you feel in the morning! Give it a go for a week, and see how you feel!

Wearing a helmet could save your life Response

2010-05-26T21:00:00.001-06:00

Recently the Golden Star wrote an Article about helmets and sidewalk riding. There were some bones of contention with soem of my personal beliefs. Hopefully when you read the original article and the response the message that comes across will be more about moving the discussion from talking about why people don't wear helmets (and fining them) to education of road users and cyclists.

I will link to the original articles and I will also copy the text of the Articles, as the Golden Star doesn't seem to like keeping items up for a long time.

Original Article

By Carrie White - Golden Star
Published: May 11, 2010 12:00 PM

Practising bike, skateboard and scooter safety may save your life.

According to information available at the Golden/Field RCMP office, every year more than 100 Canadians die and thousands more are seriously injured as a result of bike accidents. Head injuries count for about half that total. Accidents can happen to any rider, so the RCMP encourage riders to buy a helmet, wear it and set the right example for younger riders.

Sgt. Troy Durand, detachment commander for the Golden/Field RCMP, says that in his experience, many riders in Golden have a real problem with proper helmet use.

“In a community like this, it is an issue that I don’t understand. This is such an adventurous and recreationalist community and I have literally seen riders heading up to Mount 7 with their helmets strapped to their packs on the ride up there.”

While helmet fines might not be enough to deter some riders, Durand says this issue is particularly concerning to him because of a past experience having seen a cyclist killed due to head injuries where the cyclist was not wearing a helmet.

People often say that it is their personal safety at risk so it should be their choice, but Durand says that riders must remember there are other people at risk besides the victim.

Most bicycle helmets on the market meet the minimum requirement of one or more of the Canadian Standards Association. If you are buying a new helmet, make sure it has a sticker indicating that it meets one or more of these standards. Just as important, ensure your helmet fits properly. It shouldn’t tip forward or backward, but fit snugly and squarely on your head. If you’re not sure, ask for help at our local bike shops.

Also remember, when you ride remember the rules of the road. The Motor Vehicle Act applies to bike riders, skateboarders and scooters. Respect motorists, pedestrians and other cyclists. And always expect the unexpected. Getting into the right gear also includes wearing clothing that’s bright enough to be seen on the road or trail, using lights at night and taking the time to give your bike a safety check.

Durand says that cyclists, skateboarders and scooters also need to be aware of the rules of the road. “When riding a bike, board or scooter, people still need to be aware of their surroundings. Be courteous to pedestrians and follow the rules of the road.”

The fine for riding a bike on the sidewalk is $109.

For more information on bike safety and the rules of the road, visit www.bikesense.bc.ca.

Response letter to the editor

Published: May 25, 2010 9:00 AM
Updated: May 25, 2010 9:53 AM

Dear Editor,

Sgt Durand stated that helmets can save lives. I agree and disagree. The most important factor in wearing a helmet is what is underneath that helmet, the brain. Knowledge of how to use the road, and how to interact with other roadway users is what matters when trying to increase safety. Wearing a helmet, can in some cases save lives. Knowledge will save it many times over. I have witnessed many bad drivers and cyclists in this town.

The statistics show that more bikes that ride on the road, regardless of helmets or not, make the streets safer for everyone, including drivers. Also statistically based on kms driven/ridden it is much more dangerous to drive a car, than a bike, with or without a helmet. Education by both car drivers and bikes helps reduce crashes.

In Golden, it would be great to see more bikes on the roadway, but if people ride on the sidewalk, isn’t that a reflection of how unsafe they must feel on the road where they belong? I know many people that cross the bridge on the sidewalk, as they are too scared to “take the lane” and use the power of the Motor Vehicle Act.

This town is ideal for anyone wanting to do shopping, work and recreation by bike (and walking). Any trip around 3km, is ideal to bike. The whole town is under that. So get on your bike, stay on the road and off the sidewalks.

I do agree with Sgt Durand, that when out of town on or off the road and in low light situations wearing a helmet is needed, as drivers are not expecting to see bikes. I also know that having lights can make a big difference as well. As can drivers that follow the 50km/h speed limit and to give bikes the space they need.

Luke Nichols

Golden Active Transport Coordinator

Golden, B.C.

Car driving fiends?

2010-05-20T12:43:00.001-06:00

Having just read this article. Which states that,

"Nearly eight in 10 people (78 per cent) claim to be concerned about the environmental impact of their wheels, as transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in this country. But even when walking, biking or public transit are viable options for them, three-quarters of Canadians (75 per cent) will still choose to drive."

This worries me, as the Golden Active Transport Coordinator. I want to encourage people to leave the car at home and use other modes to get around town. So how can i do that, when people will use the car, even if it isn't the quickest way? Biking around town, in many cases is a few seconds slower, and sometimes faster than a car. Walking is a lovely way to appreciate where we live. It does not take as long as you think. If you find that you can't complete the walk, just drop in on a friend for a coffee before starting off again. Most walks in town, would be around 30 mins to 45 mins at a medium pace.

This part of the article got me.

"In fact, Canadians tell WWF-Canada they'd sooner surrender junk food, credit cards, cellphones, coffee, Internet access and even sex before kissing their car keys goodbye."

Would you rather give up all that to drive a car? I wouldn't, i can't live without my morning coffee. One on the way to work, and the other at work.

So why not try walking or biking to work for a month, and see how good you feel in the morning. You will be more awake, and actually get something done in the mornings. The day will go faster, and if you walk on fridays, after work drinks don't become a problem. You just walk home, no need to worry about the car.

Living Streets

2010-05-19T12:11:00.001-06:00

The edited report below is very scary. It has many applications to Canada as a whole in my view. However i see the more relevant items to Golden selected from the original press release. While i think that the chances of abduction, murder and the like in Golden are lower. There is still a possibility that inattentive driving and speed could cause a fatal crash in a school zone.

I would like to know peoples reactions to this, and how they think they could improve things in Golden for school aged kids?

Over a thousand parents of primary school aged children were asked what they fear most for their children (from a given list) and 30% stated abduction or murder, with only 5% revealing a fear for their child’s poor health in later life due to their child’s current level of physical activity.

Although there is about a one in a million chance of a child being killed by a stranger, the risk of severe health issues and early mortality as a result of the lack of physical activity is one in three .

The Government recommends that children should have seven hours of physical activity per week, but in fact 68% of boys and 76% of girls are not currently meeting this recommendation.

The Walk to School Campaign is now more vital than ever as the number of children who walk to school regularly has reached an all time national low, with an enormous 43% of children now driven to the school gates. Parents can help children walk to school safely by teaching them road safety skills as they walk them to school from a young age. This helps parents to identify when their children are ready to find their way to school safely by themselves, safely giving them independence.

Key Findings from the report include:

•    60% of parents fear their child will be killed or injured in a road traffic accident or abduction or murder whereas only 5% ‘fear for their child’s poor health in later life due to their child’s current level of physical activity, from a given list.
•    Nearly half, 49% of parents under-estimated the amount of physical activity their children should get in a week.
These results are based on a poll conducted by YouGov of 1244 parents of primary school aged children.

The two charities are calling on Government to ensure that policy interventions such as traffic calming measures are implemented to give parents the choice to walk to school with their child.

Recommendations include:

•    20 mph (30km/h) to become the default speed limit wherever people live, work and play
•    Local Authorities to ensure safe, walkable routes to schools, through improved crossings, good lighting, and well maintained pavements and footpaths.
•    Adequately invest in effective walk to school promotion schemes, recognising that walking is the easiest and most effective way of getting children active.
•    Support and advice to parents to equip their children with appropriate road safety skills well before the transition to secondary school.
•    Areas with high childhood obesity levels should integrate walking to school as a central part of their health improvement strategies, linking to initiatives such as the National Child Measurement Programme and Child Health Systems Programme

60% of parents fear their child will be killed/ injured in a road traffic accident or abduction or murder over 5% for their child’s poor health in later life due to their childs current level of physical activity, from a given list.

Aggregated results from the YouGov poll indicated that 49% of those surveyed knew how much activity kids should get, but 1% felt that their child did not need any physical exercise in a week to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a total of 50% of parents under-estimated the amount of physical activity their children should get in a week.

Parents were asked which of the following they fear MOST for their child:

They are injured or killed in a road traffic accident - 30%
They are abducted or murdered - 30%
Poor health in later life due to your child's current levels of physical activity - 5%
None of these - 21%
Don't know - 7%
Prefer not to say - 7%

In an average week, how much physical activity do you think your child needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

Less than one hour - 1%
More than 1 hour up to 2 hours - 6%
More than 2 hours up to 3 hours - 8%
More than 3 hours up to 4 hours - 11%
More than 4 hours up to 5 hours - 10%
More than 5 hours up to 6 hours - 13%
More than 6 hours up to 7 hours - 12%
More than 7 hours up to 8 hours - 16%
More than 8 hours up to 9 hours - 3%
More than 9 hours up to 10 hours - 4%
More than 10 hours - 13%
Don't know - 4%
Not applicable - I don't think my child needs any exercise in an average week to maintain a healthy lifestyle - 1%

A report from the Chief Medical Officer (‘At least five a week: 2004) stated that: “For children and young
people, the advice has been for one hour of moderate intensity physical activity each day.” http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_4080994

For the full press release with sources click here.

Dan Burden at SFU

2010-05-12T14:55:00.000-06:00

Dan Burden was recently at SFU giving a speech on liveable neighbourhoods. It is well worth watching, myself and Lisa Reinders met Dan at at BC Parks and Rec's summit. Quite approachable and interesting to talk too.

Dan Burden at SFU

I was trying to get it embedded on to this website. However i forget how to do it. Please follow the link.

Earth Day 2010

2010-04-28T14:57:00.001-06:00

Earth Day 2010
Originally uploaded by Gussy (Luke)

This is the amount of Garbage that we retrieved from various locations around town. It was a good turn out. Next year lets hope we can get more users of the Mt 7 trails out to help clean up.

Parking Line Fairy

2010-04-26T11:02:00.000-06:00

Does anyone know when the Parking line fairy came to town? I must say they look rather spiffy. Now we can optimise parking, rather than people taking up 2 parking spots without knowing. Hopefully some more changes will be coming soon.

Open Letter to Ministry of Transport regarding No biking sign

2010-04-15T11:00:00.002-06:00

Recently the Active Transportation group sent a letter to the Ministry of Transportation for them to remove the sign over the bridge with the Cyclist crossed out, inferring no cycling allowed. Included is this link to the document that was sent to the Ministry. The letter will be posted here, the attachments regarding how we believe it doesn't make sense, will be in the attachment.

The letter is detailed below.

"Letter to the Ministry of Transportation

To whom it may concern,

The Town of Golden and the Golden Active Transport group is requesting that the No biking sign (R-152) on Highway 95 over to Gould’s Island be removed and replaced with either Cyclist on Roadway sign (W-130), Cyclist warning (W-131) or a sign stating “Cyclists allowed full use of lane”.

The changing of this sign is seen as a pivotal push to changing attitudes to biking on roadways within the town. We would like the Ministry to support us in this endeavour. We see this sign changing as a subtle change message that bikes are welcome on the road.

We would also like to continue other discussions within town, in regards to Highway 95 speeds and ways to make it safer for all road users. "

It is a provincial law that no cycling is allowed on the side walk. However it is generally acceptable for minors under 10 to ride on the side walk.
With that in mind the sign on the bridge does not put forth a positive image about cycling. Nor does it give cyclist the rights that are granted to them under the Motor Vehicles Act. Which state the a bicycle is a vehicle under the law and afforded the same rights.

As a personal preference i take the lane when crossing the bridge to increase my saftey and the other users of the road way. I have personally had many people over take me on the bridge.

"If there is no shoulder or bike lane and the curb lane is narrow, cyclists may choose to take the whole lane by riding in the centre of it. This can be safer than riding near the curb, which may encourage motorists to squeeze by where there is not sufficient room."

That excerpt is taken from the Bikesense website. As their is no shoulder on the bridge, and people do squeeze past as they are in a hurry, take the lane. The majority of people can cross the bridge in under 30 seconds. I don't see loosing 30 seconds a major inconvenience for anyone. No matter how much of a hurry you are in. That is just my 2 cents.

Earth Day April 22nd

2010-04-08T15:51:00.000-06:00

How you can help on

Earth Day

April 22

4- 7 pm

Golden Wildsight

Reflection Lake Clean Up

Volunteers needed to clean around Reflection Lake including some tire in the shallows

Golden Active Transportation

Trails Clean Up

meet at Town Hall for supplies and help clean your favorite trail

Potluck Meal at 6:00 pm at Reflection Lake

All are welcome to share a Potluck meal at Reflection Lake

Bring plate, cup and utensils and of a course a dish to share

For more information contact

Wildsight: Joan Dolinsky 250- 348- 2578

Golden Active Transportation: Lisa Reinders 250- 344- 2271 ext 225

The Numerous Benefits of Walking

2010-04-01T16:53:00.001-06:00

If a daily fitness walk could be put in a pill, it would be one of the most popular prescriptions in the world. It has so many health benefits. Walking can reduce the risk of many diseases — from heart attack and stroke to hip fracture and glaucoma. These may sound like claims on a bottle of snake oil, but they're backed by major research. Walking requires no prescription, the risk of side effects is very low, and the benefits are numerous:

Managing your weight.
Combined with healthy eating, physical activity is key to any plan for long-lasting weight control. Keeping your weight within healthy limits can lower your risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer, sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis.

Controlling your blood pressure. Physical activity strengthens the heart so it can pump more blood with less effort and with less pressure on the arteries. Staying fit is just as effective as some medications in keeping down blood pressure levels.

Decreasing your risk of heart attack. Exercise such as brisk walking for three hours a week — or just half an hour a day — is associated with a 30% to 40% lower risk of heart disease in women. (Based on the 20-year Nurses' Health Study of 72,000 female nurses.)

Boosting "good" cholesterol – the level of high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Physical activity helps reduce low-density lipoproteins (LDL or "bad" cholesterol) in the blood, which can cause plaque buildup along the artery walls — a major cause of heart attacks.

Lowering your risk of stroke. Regular, moderate exercise equivalent to brisk walking for an hour a day, five days a week, can cut the risk of stroke in half, according to a Harvard study of more than 11,000 men.

Reducing your risk of breast cancer and type 2 diabetes. The Nurses' Health Study also links regular activity to risk reductions for both these diseases. In another study, people at high risk of diabetes cut their risk in half by combining consistent exercise like walking with lower fat intake and a 5% to 7% weight loss.

Avoiding your need for gallstone surgery. Regular walking or other physical activity lowers the risk of needing gallstone surgery by 20% to 31%, found a Harvard study of more than 60,000 women ages 40 to 65.
Protecting against hip fracture. Consistent activity diminishes the risk of hip fracture, concludes a study of more than 30,000 men and women ages 20 to 93.

The list goes on and on. Many other studies indicate a daily brisk walk also can help:

Prevent depression, colon cancer, constipation, osteoporosis, and impotence
Lengthen lifespan
Lower stress levels
Relieve arthritis and back pain
Strengthen muscles, bones, and joints
Improve sleep
Elevate overall mood and sense of well-being.

Keep it Steady
A steady routine is the most important factor in getting the most out of your exercise program. Walking for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 or more days a week is recommended.

Use these tips to keep you on track:

During your walks, you should be able to maintain a conversation. If you're breathing too lightly, increase your pace. If you can't catch your breath, slow it down.
Walk around the local area after lunch or dedicate 15 minutes to walking up and down stairs. Climbing is an excellent way to strengthen your heart.
At night, trade a half hour of TV for a brisk stroll around the block. Take a friend with you for company or get the whole family involved.

The Best Medicine
Any amount of walking is good, but for the best health results, set a brisk pace and walk for 30 minutes at least 5 times a week. Be sure to check with your doctor on the level of exercise that's best for you.

This article was originally posted on this site. This is not original work, all copyright still remains with the creator.

First meeting of 2010 minutes

2010-03-30T15:17:00.000-06:00

As displayed on this blog. A meeting was held last week to discuss what is going on in regards to active transport in town. The minutes are available on Google Docs, via this link. If you have any comments on the minutes please comment below and i will be more than happy to follow up with you.

There is lots of room to move with getting people out and enjoying where they live. I will have an update next week with the results of the Top 5 projects.

Thirty Days of Biking

2010-03-25T11:55:00.000-06:00

Just found this and it looks really interesting.

Thirty Days of biking

Do you think you could do it? It doesn't mean giving up the car for the whole time, just making sure that you use the bike every day, for 30 days. Who knows you might be able to find other uses for the bike that replace a car?

Update on the First meeting of the Golden Active Transportion Group

2010-03-22T11:12:00.000-06:00

The agenda has been set, and now we need you to attend.

It is being held this Thursday at the College of the Rockies, at 7.30pm.

We hope to see you there. A copy of the agenda is below for you to peruse. There is a Facebook group event. If you are planning on attending, please let us know either by commenting on this article or by emailing.

Agenda for 3rd Meeting of the Active Transportation group

7:30-7:50pm      Plans for 12th street
7:50- 8:10pm     Safe Routes to school
8:10- 8:20pm     Highways
8:20- 8:35pm     Bike Racks
8:35- 8:45pm     Community Bike
8:45- 9pm          Plans for 2010
9-9:20pm          Top 5 ideas
9:20- 9:30pm    Questions
9:30pm              Adjourn

Designing Cities for Northern Climates

2010-03-18T15:05:00.002-06:00

Whilst many don't think were northern. Montreal is on the same level with Copenhagen. This means that anything is possible. I am not silly enough to think that change happens overnight. This webcast is really interesting and well worth a look. It goes into how Copenhagen has been changed small pieces at a time. Golden can do the same, small changes making the whole town more friendly to bikes and people walking.

Enjoy!

Let me know what you think in the comments.

In case it doesn't work embedded, http://www.ecologieurbaine.net/2010-02-16webcast.html

Challenges

2010-03-16T10:51:00.000-06:00

What are your challenges in commuting in town? Do you worry about how you will look when you get to work? Worry about the cold, health or dust?

What are the things that affect your daily life and the choices that you make about getting to work.

Is it feasible for you to ride, skate or walk to work?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments.

Ray LaHood: All Transportation equal

2010-03-16T10:00:00.001-06:00

It looks like the States is making some headway in getting biking and walking on an even footing with auto, train and aviation transportation. This is good news for Active Transportation. If only Canada was moving in the same direction.

Ray LaHood is the Secretary of Transportation said that "This is the end of favouring motorised transportation at the expense of non-motorised" Which is good news for all Americans trying to make changes from auto-centric cities and towns. I hope that some of this flows over the border and affects Canada. I have been scouring the Action Plan government website for a list of bike paths or other trails or bike paths, i haven't found any yet. If you find a list, please let me know where it is.

I will link the video below.

First meeting of 2010

2010-03-15T11:50:00.000-06:00

We are having a meeting to update everyone on what is happening in town, and how you can get involved. It will be held at the College at 7.30pm on the 25th March, 2010

We hope that you can make it and show you what we have install for this year, and beyond.

Kicking Horse Canyon

2010-03-02T14:10:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that there is an Open house for the proposal on the new Kicking Horse Canyon developments. It is on Thursday the 4th of March, between 4.30pm and 8.30pm. Hope to see you there.

Report on Pedestrian stuck in January

2010-02-16T11:45:00.000-07:00

I am posting this because the Golden Star doesn't keep news articles for ever, like the web does.

The original article can be found here.

Earlier this morning, January 25, Golden RCMP and BC Ambulance Services attended a collision in which a single vehicle struck a pedestrian at an intersection in Golden.
At approximately 8:10 a.m., a 13-year-old girl was walking to school along 9th St. S. As she was crossing 11th Ave. S., a van which had already stopped at the stop sign, proceeded north bound into the intersection and struck the girl as she was crossing the street. The girl was pushed across the intersection. She then fell down and went under the van. The driver stopped immediately and the police and ambulance service were called.
Miraculously, the girl was not injured. She was checked by BC Ambulance attendants, released at the scene and went home with her mother. She appeared to be shaken up, but was in good spirits.
Several witnesses stayed on scene and assisted the police by providing statements. The driver, who was also quite shaken up by the incident was issued a violation ticket for failing to yield to a pedestrian.
No names are being released.
Kate Bamber, Cst.
Golden RCMP Detachment

First Lady Obama launches Healthier Kids program

2010-02-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

First Lady, Michelle Obama launched a new program this week. It is aimed at getting kids active, its called Let's Move. Within that is says that kids need 60 minutes of activity a day, even in winter. Adults need 60-90 minutes daily.

Remarks have been made that a city that is safe for kids to play in is a city safe for everyone.

The highlighting by the First Lady makes childhood obesity a top agenda within the US Government. We all think that the US is the one that has a problem. However the facts are far from that. Canada matches or overtakes the US with childhood and adult obesity. The cooler climate in Canada can make for some challenging situations, however remember your childhood. Did you play outside in winter? Winters in Golden have only gotten warmer since the early 1960's.

What do you want your child's future to be? A happy healthy one, full of exercise and good eating. Or spent watching TV and video games.

Sources:

StatsCan- http://www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/100113/dq100113a-eng.htm
The American College of Sports Medicine- http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/177404.php
Streetsblog- http://dc.streetsblog.org/2010/02/11/healthier-kids-by-design/
Let's Move- http://letsmove.gov/activity/index.html
CBC-http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2010/01/27/exercise-guidelines.html

Every Corner is a crosswalk

2010-02-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that every corner is a crosswalk. To illustrate here is a great little video put out by the Animate Traffic Law non profit group.

Link

Whilst it is mainly concerning the US laws, the same laws displayed also are applicable here.

Street View coming to Golden

2010-02-09T13:56:00.000-07:00

Google Street view has started appearing in Golden. Currently it is only available for highways, that being highway 95 and the Trans-Canada. Here's to hoping that in the future all streets will be mapped and usable as a tool for great biking and walking options!

You can access google maps from this link. Otherwise you are able to use google earth to view the changes.

Food for thought?

2010-01-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

Pardon the pun.

After reading this article. And then this Article . I start to wonder what type of lifestyle choices i will set for my future. Will i become a couch potato? Will i decide that it is too hot or cold outside so i will just stay put inside?

Canadians are becoming fatter and heavier. It's a fact. So the choice is individual, but its also collective. Let me explain.

I want to live in a community that is active and people are healthy and happy. That is why i am pushing to get people out and active. Doing my part to make it easier and safer for people to exercise. Making changes to our beautiful town so that people get to appreciate it for what it is. Rather than take it for granted. We live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Just ask Sid Fuez.

My job is to make moving around town without a car easier. The choice of getting out of the car and walking or biking to work, well that is yours.

There are many reports available that list that the more people that are out and about, the more other people that normally wouldn't get out, do get out. It is a strange effect, and I'm not sure what to call it, but i sure do like it. Wouldn't it be great to one day know that you don't need to worry about your kids walking to school across Highway 95?

The Towns own mission statement is:

Golden provides the opportunity for all
“to live” in a healthy vibrant community

That is what i want. A healthy vibrant community. What do you want?

Reading

2010-01-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

So lots of reading to be done, on what has already been done on Active Transport in Golden. I wanted to find out from our readership what they think are the most obvious deterrents to getting you out walking, biking or skating?

Is it the fact that it is cold in winter? too hot in summer? Not organised enough to get out of the house early? Lacking the proper equipment?

Golden Active Transport Coordinator,
Luke

Active Transportation walking bus is moving out of the Station

2010-01-17T23:00:00.000-07:00

Jump aboard as we start to discover the possibilities of Active Transportation in Golden, BC. Hopefully you will start seeing small changes here and on the street level in the near future! This blog is going to see more action in the future with links, pictures and results of the people of Golden.

I look forward to sharing my passion for getting people mobile and appreciating the beautiful town that we live in!

From one of the Co-Administrators, Luke.

Uploaded CBC Interview with Lisa Reinders

2009-07-08T14:19:00.002-06:00

Here you go folks. A great interview but way too early in the morning for this guy. So...here you go. I hope this works!

Lisa Reinders To Be On CBC Radio On Friday

2009-06-25T13:53:00.001-06:00

Golden Active Transportation Town of Golden Representative Lisa Reinders will be on CBC Radio at 7:15am on Friday morning. She will be discussing our communities new direction, mandated through town policy to create more accessible and safe non motorized right of ways. Have a listen. If you can't listen, I will see if we can get a copy of it up here.

It's just a matter of time.

2009-06-23T12:10:00.000-06:00

After listening to CBC while at home working on the computer today there were four separate interviews and memos regarding cycling transportation in Canada and around the world which included a discussion regarding a new book discussing a Car Free Urban Landscape, Vancouver's newly announced bridge right of ways for cyclists, Victoria commuting and a discussion form Eastern Canada relating to removal of city streets to allow for quieter communities. Things are changing throughout the world relating to urban transportation and planning. This information also is filtering down through to smaller communities. Will Golden take that next step forward......it's up to us.

Car-free Sundays get green light from Vancouver

2009-06-23T11:39:00.001-06:00

Car-free Sundays get green light from Vancouver

Shared via AddThis

GAT to Conduct Feasibility Study of Commuting Path to Nicholson

2009-06-22T15:48:00.001-06:00

Golden Active Transportation will begin a field and feasibility study for a trail which will connect the Town of Golden with Nicholson to create a safe and independent commuting pathway for non- motorized use. This could potentially see year round utilization by cyclists, pedestrians, rollerbladers, skateboarders rollerskiers and cross country skiers. The construction of a paved eight foot wide pathway would allow commuters safe passage to and from the hamlet of Nicholson. I have been approached by numerous different users and see this project as a major project that the group could develop. If you would like to provide additional input or would be intersted in assisting with this project please contact Troy Hudson for more information.

This project could also include an ecologocal interpretive component along its length creating a new and safe destination for school groups, community visitors and locals.

Bridge Access Proves a Major Issue Among Local Commuters

2009-06-22T14:16:00.000-06:00

One of the largest issues for cyclists in Golden is access to the downtown corridor by way of the vehicle traffic bridge on Highway 95. While many people have taken to riding on the sidewalks this is not a feasible option as it displaces pedestrians, wheelchairs and parents with strollers.
It is clearly visible in the photo above there is not much room for a cyclist to be moving across the bridge on teh road itself, let alone a parent with a baby carrier in tow or bicycle tourers with big loads who are visiting the valley.

While I'm sure that there are some major hurtles to negotiate in terms of signage, a project which we are actively pursuing, there really should not be any dispute in creating signage for safe multi modal traffic systems. It has been advised that cyclists should dismount and walk their bikes across the bridge. Not only does this create potential conflicts with pedestrians and others, there is simply no room for pedestrians and cyclists on a side walk to pass. The bridge sidewalk is very narrow and proves quite difficult today if two baby strollers pass one another. Adding an additional instrument to teh equation will create more conflict than resolution. This just simply is not a safe option. Bikes belong on the road with the other wheeled traffic.

The addition of signage for vehicular traffic will mitigate many of the issues entirely by providing the right of way to cyclists for the 150m span required. While it may take drivers a while to get used to the fact that they are not the only vehicles on the road it will begin a shift in the minds of drivers to accommodate cyclists. There are other upgrades required to create a safe passage for cyclists, a few of which should

be repaired this summer at some point. Many potholes exist on the north side of the bridge creating an additional hazard for cyclists. At this point vehicles are speeding up to pass and cyclists are forced to negotiate a huge island of potholes at the parking lot entrance at the bottom of the hill. If cyclists want to turn down onto 9th Ave they either have to cut sharply across oncoming traffic or proceed down to the existing pedestrian crossing, accessing the connector road by the post office. Today, I stood at that pedestrian crossing for three minutes before a vehicle stopped to let me pass today. The paint

on the road is in bad repair and the signage is not adequate for this site. I would recommend that an overhead pedestrian crossing such as at Overwaitea would be more adequate which has illuminated lighting when activated form either side of the road. It will take a huge change in thought of community officials to adjust their planning to accommodate this infrastructure. Community planning needs to take pedestrians and cyclists more into consideration when designing our roadways.

While this section of Golden was planned in the 1950's it does not mean that we need to retain those concepts today. Proper discussions with community advocacy groups will help town planners to create safe and aesthetically pleasing roadways and pathways for the future generations of cyclists.

Bikes...Beyond the athlete.

2009-06-15T23:39:00.000-06:00

This is not a remark to isolate all of us rural community cyclists, but is here to offer an insight into how the big players in the cycling industry are finally designing bikes for "the rest of us". This typically refers to a weekend cyclist or commuter who's idea of going for a ride is more likely to be a paved or gravel pathway (separated from vehicular traffic) or a ride downtown to their favorite coffee shop for an early morning treat than hurtling themselves off a cliff or riding 100km on the highway.

Golden has some of the best cycling opportunities in the world with fantastic downhill, cross country and road cycling. What seems to be forgotten a lot of the time is that there is an entirely other market segment, one which accounts for over 75% of bike sales worldwide.

It seems that there is a lot of intimidation when it comes to cycling in our community. New cyclists are freaked out when they walk into a shop and find that a price point bike starts at $1000, or sales staff aren't knowledgeable in how to mount fenders, or find it annoying to discuss simple thing such as what type of lube to use. Many shops simply cater to the tourists with their expensive bikes and don't even recognize the middle aged local standing there who needs to know what kind of tube he needs for his old ten speed. Take care of your community first people! (RANT)

Specialized, one of the industries original players, in fact, one of the originators of the mountain bike, has just released an entirely new division of their company called Globe which is aimed at the commuter/hipster/slow biker. While these bikes don't officially release for another few months a few leaks have filtered through which continue to create much buzz throughout the industry, which really, is a return to the simplicicty of years pasts.

Specialized is not the only company offering more colour variation to their paint booth. Style plays a role in today's bikes. While basic and utilitarian they still offer a visually stimulating pedal. The single speed movement has seen a drastic increase in usership in the past few years with simplicity in maintenance and purity of style offering a glimpse of past decades and a century of cycling when it wasn't all about how many gears you had. K.I.S.S.

Function over fashion...not necessarily. You can actually have it all. No I'm not trying to sell you a new bike, although I have lived that life. I am trying to instill a sense of "doing everything" on your bike. There is really no need to jump in your car, drive three blocks and buy two bags of groceries. Bikes are coming with all sorts of cargo type features such as this cargo rack. Sure it would be nice to have one of these in your garage but you can rig up your existing bike with a set of fenders, lights and rack to allow you the freedom to negotiate anything our little town of Golden has to throw at you. There are people who commute 30-40km everyday on their bikes in Golden. Have you seen them yet? Every time you throw a leg over your bike or walk somewhere it saves you money (gas), and a little portion of the air we breath (emissions).

For the price of two tanks of gas in a mid size car you can set up your bike for commuting daily. Just imagine how much your heart will appreciate it.

Yet another display if simplicity. This is an 8 speed bike but has no external derailleurs to tear off or maintain. Some of these new bikes are even getting rid of a chain in favor of a belt drive, the exact same thing as your car utilizes. This creates a quiet and incredibly strong, low maintenance vehicle. You'll have to replace your tires every three or four years at $30 each, but you can't say that about your car. Most residents of Golden probably spend that much every couple days on their motorized vehicles, if not more.

Built in generator lights, similar to those of years past are one of the hottest selling aftermarket items these days. Reducing our need for disposable and harmful products (batteries) the "dynamo light" runs off of electricity produced by a small generator which spins on the tires sidewall. Portable power to keep you safe at night, which cost and pollutes nothing.

Reduce your impact, reduce your dependency on fossil fuels and pull out your bike. Searching the local thrift store, used bike shops, and garage sales will often turn up some fantastic gems from the past. In fact, until this past week (where Annabelle-my old bikes name-switched hands to a new owner) I had been riding a 1954 CCM cruiser bike with side racks and generator light which I pulled out of the dump ten years ago. Now, I'm on the quest for something a bit more functional with a couple gears and more space to pull all of our recycling on the weekends to the recycling center.

Lastly, what people have seemed to forget is that if they search back through all of the experiences through their lives, there is guaranteed one, usually from their childhood, that involves a bike. Cycling is fun....let yourself rediscover those great experiences. Leave the car at home and pull out that bike your soul with thank you for it!

Cycling retailers and staff required to make a phylosophical change to adjust to a changing industy.

2009-06-15T14:59:00.000-06:00

This is an excerpt from an industry magazine which showcases cycling trends through the minds of the planets largest players. Shimano, undoubtedly the largest bicycle components manufacturer takes a look at the direction of the industry and the requirements of support staff to make cycling a better experience for the consumer. Have a read:

Kozo Shimano, CEO of Shimano American

Kozo talks about the importance of broadening the appeal of bicycling and making the process of buying a bike less intimidating.
To make the bike industry a growth industry, he said we must appeal to people who aren’t enthusiasts.
Almost every adult has some fond memory of bike riding as a child, Kozo said. But, for some reason, many no longer ride. Shimano’s research shows that these people would want a bicycling experience that is primarily about socializing and hanging out with friends. Adults who no longer ride (but want to) see themselves riding on trails and paths—not where there are cars.
Kozo talked about the process of buying a bike and how it needs to change:For most people, a bike is just a bike—it’s not a mountain bike, road bike, comfort bike, or hybrid bike, he said. Many of the people who don’t ride are deathly afraid to walk into a bike shop—they feel like they need to study before walking in. Even after they muster the courage to walk into a shop, they are often intimidated by the knowledge of the shop employee.
Kozo said that shop employees tend to look at novices as low-profit customers. Many newcomers are not going to buy a pro bike: in fact, some may barely be able to afford a low-end bike. Most retailers know that these bikes are low-margin bikes, so there’s probably some hesitation to spend a lot of time with these customers, especially since they may need a lot of time to reach a decision. In other words, selling a bike to a ‘novice’ is no fun—for the employee or the customer.
Shimano asked the audience to take a moment and try to understand what is going through the mind of a consumer: “I just want to buy a bike. I have no idea what this guy is talking about.” Consumers walking into a store to buy a bike have a vision of what they are going to do with the bike. It’s more than just buying a bike.
Shimano offered an analogy to the experience of a non-cyclist in a bike shop—a man visiting the cosmetics area of a department store. “How many of you have gone into a department store, to the cosmetics corner? Have you ever tried to buy cosmetics for yourself or someone else? I’ve done this—and I’ve been treated like an outcast. No saleswomen wanted to talk to me. And even if they did, I would have had no idea what they were talking about. This is exactly how most people feel in a bike shop. That’s why I’m focusing on this question: “How can we change our mindset to be able to reach people who don’t ride bikes?”

Golden Public Transit Underutilized

2009-06-04T13:16:00.000-06:00

Golden's Public Transit often goes for whole days without ANY ridership. What do we need to do to integrate this service into Active Transportation planning?

KHC Transit System-Revised Schedule:
Announcing Changes to our Community Bus Schedule Effective September 2nd, 2008. Thanks to the communities’ comments and our experience during the first 9 months of operation, we are ready to make changes to our routes, schedules, and pricing to serve the community better, Changes include: BETTER SCHOOL SERVICE – Students living in town and attending any of the in-town schools can catch the bus and arrive on time to school every day AND catch it after school to head home. It’s easy and convenient – check the schedule and find your nearest bus stop. Stop driving your kids to school – take the bus, it’s cool! DAILY SERVICE TO PARSON – Twice daily service to Parson will now be offered, to get those rural folks on our system and save them some gas money! EARLIER AFTERNOON SERVICE TO RURAL SOUTH – Students needing to stay after school for a while can now catch the bus home in the Rural South earlier in the day. Get them home for dinner! NEW PRICING – Convenient and now cheaper to ride. Pick up your monthly pass for over 30% less than last year, and really put a dent in those fuel bills. Purchase your COMMUNITY bus tickets/passes at Overwaitea Foods or the Town of Golden. See the riders guide insert (linked below) for more info on all our bus routes and stops

"Cougar Commuter" Trail in Canmore takes shape.

2009-05-19T12:00:00.000-06:00

Construction could soon begin on a trail that will help those who live on the north side of Canmore get into town without their cars.
The “Cougar Commuter,” a $400,000 project to build a 2.5-metre wide commuter trail, a trail wide enough to allow two bicycles towing chariots to pass one another easily, is now taking shape. Construction could begin mid to late summer and then be ready for use by the fall.
As a green initiative the commuter trail is eligible for funds through the recently doubled, federal Gas Tax Fund.
Jamie Carpenter, parks and open space planner for the town, will be one of the hosts at an open house at Elizabeth Rummel School May 20 to welcome the public to have a look at the plan.
“We’ll be there to answer questions and to take some feedback to, but it’s pretty much planned and ready to go,” he said.
While he doesn’t expect to much controversy at the open house, he respects the fact that there are some in Canmore who may not see this as an entirely positive move by the town.
“It’s a change. It’s a change to a trail that a lot of people do use, and have used for many years,” he said. “And it’s adding a paved path. We really want to push the point that this is not the start of some effort of paving all the trails in town. We recognize that this is right along the highway, a big wide swath with cars and trucks blasting by if you’re a visitor to Canmore or you’re a resident who loves to get out and enjoy nature, you’re not going to go for your nature walk here.”
The trail in place now is not as fast or efficient as it could be, or should be, Carpenter said.
There is a commuter trail out to Three Sisters, but there is not the critical mass of people out there like there is in the Cougar Creek neighborhoods, he said, and so whether or not it really serves the same purpose as this trail could, is difficult to determine.
“There are 6,000 people living around there, this will be a commuter path,” Carpenter said. The system will also allow kids in the neighborhoods get to schools across the highway much more easily.
And this path is more of an extension of what exists along Palliser Trail up to Palliser Heights, he said, underscoring the town’s desire to not get into the business of paving paths around town.
Carpenter said he hopes that the path could one day continue on and complete that “far-fetched” idea of a pathway connecting Canmore to Banff.
Patrick Sorfleet, assistant development planner, calls this trail an “arterial path” however. He said it was right in line with the nearly completed Community Sustainability Plan’s vision for Canmore.
“The intent is to move people off roads, and if you’re looking at the CSP’s priorities to move people first, or pedestrians first, cyclists second, cars third, this is an example of building pedestrian or cyclist infrastructure,” he said.
“This is clearly not a car path,” he joked. “And it’s interesting, especially because it’s, sort of, spidered into that whole neighborhood.
The plans show smaller paths that are off shoots into the residential blocks that the path passes. The now gravel short, connecting paths will also be paved to ensure year-round accessibility for residents.
Carpenter also seemed pleased with the direction of the plan. He noted that in the discussions surrounding 2007’s Trails Master Plan, that area was identified as the area most in need of an upgrade.
“It was a common theme among the people from this part of town who came to our open houses for the Trails Maser Plan: they really wanted to see upgrades to the trails that exist here currently,” Carpenter said.
At present the best option for cyclists, in the area that houses around half the town’s population, may be the steep hill running down alongside Benchlands Trail, which may appeal going down, but not as much for the return trip. The gentle incline of the planned commuter trail should make downtown more accessible for all cyclists.
Currently there is a standard crushed gravel trail from the bridge at Benchlands Trail for about 400 metres, at which point it turns to a mix of gravel and dirt trails that run up along the North side of Cougar Creek. There is also a berm that supports a single-track trail for cyclists, which will remain in place.
An inclusion that Carpenter said is important.
“We’re loathe to pave trails, the feedback that came out of the Trails Master Plan discussions was that we love our gravel trails and that nice ‘mountain feel,’” he said. “But we determined that there are certain places that it makes sense to have a paved pathway.”
The route that stretches along parallel to the Trans-Canada and then up Cougar Creek will be a year-round route.
The town will be doing counting both before and after the construction is complete, and Carpenter said he expects to see a sizeable increase in its use, not just among recreational users but from people who will use the trail as it is intended, a means to get to and from central Canmore.

A Couple Cycling Lane Possibilities For Golden.

2009-05-19T11:29:00.001-06:00

9th Street looking South from Lady Grey School. One of the issues mentioned by the Town of Golden was that increasing lane widths to accommodate cycling lanes would increase vehicle speeds. As can be seen here there is enough space to accommodate a cycling lane on existing roadways. When you cross Hwy 95 headed toward the High School the road opens up another almost three feet. As can be seen here the road width does decrease in width which would decrease vehicle traffic speeds especially in the the school zones which are all located along this street. All it would cost is the painting of new lines.
This is Seventh Ave looking towards the Ped bridge. With the paving of this street you could create a safe cycling lane for kids while keeping the sidewalk for walking traffic. Separating these two modes of transportation creates safer passages for everyone and will help to create more awareness among motorists that bicycles do indeed belong ON the road as well. Below is the present view from that corner looking north from Lady Grey Elementary School.

Existing roadway under utilized as is.

Paved Trail Ideas

2009-05-19T11:12:00.000-06:00

Here is a photo taken down in the US where a two lane recreation trail was upgraded with paving to accommodate a wider range of traffic including roller blades, skateboards, new cyclists ( young children and adults), wheel chairs and joggers.
Some paved trails are designed similar to existing roadways creating a safe and entertaining experience for new and old commuters and recreational users. It is proven through numerous studies that designing bike paths similar to roadways will draw more commuters who have in the past just driven their vehicles as transportation. This also creates a save environment for higher use trails to ensure that there are no collisions between user groups.

Realizations in our little town

2009-05-18T09:41:00.000-06:00

This weekend was such a great indicator of vehicle traffic awareness and cyclists with the Golden Triangle road ride making its way through our community. I am always so impressed when the two to three hundred road cyclists come through town and spend a night here to enjoy what Golden has to offer. What really made me proud was the fact that the majority of vehicles out there were reducing their average speeds to accommodate the influx in two wheeled traffic. What does this mean?

Vehicles become more responsive to cyclists when they are out there in numbers. The more we are out there riding our bikes the more tolerant and aware motorists become of their surroundings. That is a big plus for future infrastructure development. The only conflicts I noticed were with young male drivers who really seemed to think that they owned the road. No real surprise. Driving school obviously didn't teach them that cyclists have the same right to be on the roads as they do.

Community Walkabout a Success

2009-05-17T09:56:00.000-06:00

Looking down 7th Ave South towards the KH River Trail. Lady Grey is immediately behind us in this shot. There is over 8 feet of grass on this section located on the west side of the road. If this were paved there would be space for two three foot bike lanes on either side of the road. This would be the main connector linking 9th St. to downtown. Creating opportunity through utilizing existing road widths would allow a system of cycling lanes making cycling much safer in our community while reduce vehicle lane widths, slowing down traffic through this corridor.

Utilizing lands adjacent the CP Railyard, we could connect our existing Rotary trail which at this point is not connected on the south end of town. Creating a continuous pathway creates a secure and well utilized system which would be used for leisure and for commuting to work. With a sound working plan the joining of these trails together would allow a safe and rapid access to work for CP Railyard employees. Perhaps the CP could be the first business in town to promote cycling as an alternate to driving. Providing showers and a secure bike lockup area workers would feel safe commuting to work day or night.

Yes, there are a few access issues on our existing trail network (this spot is adjacent Alexander Park Elementary School), such as this barrier which does not allow through access to the other side of the road. I think the reasoning for the barrier was to reduce a potential conflict with motorists coming down Selkirk Hill. How do you resolve this? Here are some ideas. Enforce speed limits coming down Selkirk Hill (posted as 30km/hr), create a flashing light crosswalk to provide motorists ample time to stop for pedestrians crossing the roadway, move the trail downslope thirty feet to allow a better sight line for motorists, paint lines across the road as at major pedestrian intersections and create a pathway which is approachable from both sides of the road. It wouldn't take much to make this a safe intersection. What is the largest stumbling block? Educating motorists.

Simple things such as ensuring that all storm drain grates are perpendicular to roadway will ensure safe passage for cyclists with skinny tires. Do you see the potential risks here? I have had my road bike wheels drop into one of these before and I went over the bars. Creating awareness is the first large hurdle.

Apologies for the distant photo but what we are getting at here is that with a fresh coat of paint on the road (which just happened this weekend unfortunately) we could potentially create a cycling lane down both sides of 9th St. This is facing west from outside the Rec Plex. There would be enough room to have a 3 foot wide bike lane while still allowing access to parking on the side of the streets. If we reduced parking to one side of the street only, there would be an ample amount of space for non motorized traffic. There is more than enough parking in the adjacent parking lot to eliminate the need for parking on both sides of the street. It is all very feasible from an infrastructure point of view. The question is, would the Town of Golden be willing to think outside of the box to create a safe passage for commuters to and from Selkirk Hill, the High School, Alexander Park Elementary School, the pool, the municipal campground, and downtown? I think they would with a proper proposal. This is one of Golden Active Transportation's major projects for the coming future.

While we had only a few people come out to participate in our first community walkabout to assess our bikeability and walkability it proved quite successful. We broke up into groups and were able to catalogue a significant deal of the downtown corridor. Mags and I ended up getting a bit sidetracked and took a full survey of the existing Rotary trails, excluding the Selkirk hill portion ( I was on my single speed!) We were very impressed overall with the initial planning and design of the phased trail implementation. We were cycling this route to determine the viability of a paved main rotary trail which would link onto the current main throughway streets to create a viable cycling routes which would access all the major infrastructure developments in town such as hospital, clinic, dental clinic, grocery stores, the banks and post office.

To our surprise much of the terrain and lane width is already there to support such infrastructure. A huge bonus when considering a cost analysis and feasibility study would precede any new development. With the cooperation of the CP Railyard a new trail system could create a save and separated access for cyclists and pedestrians alike. One thing that should be done in the near future is a survey of whether the community would be interested in having paved pathways. In some ways it might loose some of its character. We were looking at it from a couple different angles:

1) A smooth paved trail would be safer for children just learning to cycle or for tricycles that are challenged by gravel

2) Pavement allows a wider user profile of the trails (skateboards, rollerblades, rollerskis, elderly wheeled walkers, etc...)

3) Paving provides a safer transition to roadways

4) You can create a two lane trail much like a regular road which would make commuting much easier for "new" commuters who may not feel comfortable riding on gravel.

5) Pavement offers quicker commuting times for people heading to work

6) Easy maintenance for town employees

Things to come.

2009-04-27T16:21:00.000-06:00

Please stay tuned to this blog for future events and happenings. We are currently building our FB page and members. Check the group at "Golden Active Transportation"

Thanks

Troy Hudson
Golden Active Transportation Chair