Twenty-five communities throughout British Columbia will receive more than $6 million in BikeBC funding this year to expand and build cycling lanes, trails and paths for cyclists and pedestrians.

Fernie is the lone East Kootenay community to receive funds – $71,000 for the Fairy Creek Bicycle Bridge – a two metre wide, 21m long cyclist /pedestrian bridge connecting downtown to five residential and commercial neighbourhoods.

“The variety and scope of this year’s projects is impressive,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone. “By increasing our funding for the BikeBC program by 50% this year, more communities will be able to enhance their cycling infrastructure, benefitting both residents and visitors.”

BikeBC is the province’s cost-sharing program that helps communities build cycling projects that attract and support commuter and tourism cyclists. B.C. on the Move has committed $18 million over the next three years to the BikeBC program.

Since 2001, the B.C. government has committed almost $160 million for cycling infrastructure, creating new bicycle lanes and trails in over 100 communities across the province.

Cycling contributes to increased physical activity and helps reduce greenhouse gases. This year’s investment of just over $6 million will generate almost $27 million in cycling infrastructure. The 26 projects that received funding cover a range of initiatives, including bike lanes, multi-use trails, and improvements to roads and highways to allow better shared use for cyclists.

Lead image: File photo of Fairy Creek.

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