Rick Kreklewetz, candidate Pitt Meadows Council 2011

1. What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver?
I work in Vancouver so my normal mode of transportation is by car or the West Coast Express.  Within Pitt Meadows and area I will use my car or walk.

2. How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities?
We need to ensure we have adequate bike racks and well maintained cycling lanes and signage.   Safety is very important.

3. There have been many surveys asking people what it would take to get them on a bike. The number one thing people want is separated cycling facilities. How would you support separated bike lanes on key routes? If you are not in support, please explain why.
Pitt Meadows has been very proactive in setting up bike lanes and ensuring the roads are safe for cyclists.   The use of bike lanes has helped to improve the relationship between motorist and cyclist as lanes are well marked and it creates an added safety awareness.

4. If elected, would you aim to increase or decrease cycling funding from current levels? Do you feel that cycling funding levels should merely reflect the present level of cycling in our communities, or should it reflect the potential of cycling - not only as a means of transportation and for recreation, but also in view of the many desirable benefits cycling has for individuals as well as for our communities/society, such as health benefits, improved livability, reduced greenhouse gasses/pollution, reduced oil-dependency, reduced need for expensive car infrastructure/parking lots, reduced congestion, etc.?
As mentioned previously, Pitt Meadows has a more than adequate number of bike lanes.  At this point we should establish a fund to ensure we maintain our existing facilities as well as ensure we can develop future lanes for any new roadways within the city.

5. What is your level of interest in a public bike-share system integrated with the transit system? How do you think a public bike-share system in Vancouver can benefit Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows residents?
I think it is a great idea for a high density area such as Vancouver and could benefit some of the commuters in the area that work downtown.

6. What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?
The municipality should promote and support cycling education and partner with local newspapers, cycling groups and schools to promote the benefits of cycling and safety.

7. How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
I believe e- bikes should be part of our transportation system.
What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
There are several benefits; economic as  they are a cost efficient mode of transportation and their use may improve traffic flows.
What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows?
It provides an alternative transportation method and one that can be utilized by people who may not be able to travel longer distances on a convention bike.

8. Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community?
Yes.  I’d appreciate the invite.