Crisis? What Crisis? What we need is MORE SHOPPING!

World risks being next to unlivable

Agence France-Presse November 10, 2011

The world has just five years to avoid being trapped in a scenario of perilous climate change and extreme weather events, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned Wednesday.
On current trends, "rising fossil energy use will lead to irreversible and potentially catastrophic climate change," the IEA concluded in its annual World Energy Outlook report.
"The door to 2.0 Celsius is closing," it said, referring to the 2.0 C cap on global warming widely accepted by scientists and governments as the ceiling for averting unmanageable climate damage.
Without further action, by 2017 the total CO2 emissions compatible with the 2.0 C goal will be "locked in" by power plants, factories and other carbon-emitting sources either built or planned, the IEA said.

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A neat local business

On weekday mornings and afternoons people in east Maple Ridge may have had a chance to see Steve Schleicher in his bright yellow velomobile, on his way to or from work. When I mention the word "velomobile", most people always look at me, wondering: "what on earth is a velomobile?". It's a tricycle, either with two wheels in front, or two wheels in back, with a cover. The cover provides streamlining, which helps it go faster, at least when the terrain is flat or downhill - when you go uphill it's a bit slower than a regular bike - and it also helps to keep yourself dry when it rains.

Here's a photo of Steve in a classy white velo:

Steve is the owner of Velomobiles.ca, a business close to where the Albion Ferry used to be. This is where he has been designing  these pedal-powered, sleek-looking vehicles. Check out Steve's blog. Before the economic downturn, business was pretty good for Steve, who also makes kayaks. In recent years he's had to downsize, like so many other companies. He's been in Albion for quite a few years, but not for that much longer. Steve and his wife Jan recently moved to Quadra Island, the lucky stinker, and one of these days he'll move the business to Quadra too. I hope he'll come back once in a while to visit, and bring his velomobile too. It's always been a great draw for us at local events. I've had a chance to ride one back to his shop after GETI Fest in September. It wasn't a very long ride, and I thought it wasn't worth the trouble to adjust the velo to my smaller frame. I quickly found out that I should have, because I couldn't really see much in the mirror without stretching way back. Anyway, it was fun!

You don't see too many velomobiles around here. Steve's velos are the only ones I've seen. As a matter of fact, his are the only velomobiles I've ever seen in my life, apart from photos. After I met Steve several years ago, and googled "velomobiles", I found out that actually in the Netherlands, where I come from, velomobiles are a very common sight these days. That makes me think of an excellent blogger in Holland, who's originally from England, who writes about them too occasionally. He happens to work in a velomobile workshop as well. His name is David Hembrow, and his blog, A View from the Cycle Path, is an excellent source of very interesting, well researched cycling related information. His blog explains why we should all be paying attention to the Dutch examples and expertise when we try to make cycling a more appealing mode of transportation to people of all ages and abilities in our part of the world. Apart from writing on his blog and making velomobiles, he also organizes cycling tours for foreign politicians and planners to show them how things are done in the Netherlands, and to explain to them what it is that the Dutch have done to make cycling so popular. It's not true that the only reason people cycle so much in Holland is just because it's part of their culture. Most Dutch people would cycle a whole lot less if they would move to Maple Ridge, you can believe me! A couple years ago I sent David a photo that I took in Maple Ridge of what was considered an "acceptable bike route". He then used that photo for this blog post on "subjective safety". You can probably guess which road it is. A rather dubious honour for Maple Ridge to be used as a bad example! I wish some of our politicians and planners could take a cycling trip with David. They'd come back converted, that's for sure!

Going back to velomobiles, here's a great article that a.o. explains the efficiency of velomobiles.

Candace Gordon, candidate Maple Ridge Council 2011

1. What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver?
I mostly drive my car. I arrange my day so that I can do all my work with one trip. Due to the nature of my contracts I frequently have too much to use a bike. Community Kitchens require too many bins of equipment and food to load on a bike! I do own a bike and for several years when I owned my restaurant “The Sunflower” I only had a bike  with large baskets to travel by and actually did all my local shopping with it.

2. How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities?
I would support cycling by adopting a comprehensive plan for cycling trails and routes as developed by BAC ( I understand it is part of the business plan for next year). I would also support an implementation plan, timeline and resources to fund the plan.

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.
I support separated bike lanes on key routes.  I would want the recommendations of our Bicycle Advisory Committee and to review the plan to achieve separated bike lanes on key routes. We must have a comprehensive cycling network plan. Once we have the plan then we need an implementation plan, a timeline and the resources allocated to achieve it. To find the money without an increase to taxes we could look at our transportation infrastructure budget and reallocate a small portion of it to cycling.

4. Maple Ridge has no off-road (non-mountain-) biking/multi-use trails and is lagging behind other Lower Mainland communities in this respect. How do you feel off-road biking/multi-use trails can benefit Maple Ridge, and how do you suggest to start developing a network of trails.
Off-road biking multi-use trails can benefit the residents of Maple Ridge by providing safe recreation use for everyone making us healthier and of course for our enjoyment. In addition however, this can improve our recreational tourism as we are in easy day use distance for the entire Lower Mainland. We have a Bicycle Advisory Committee so we should start by asking for their recommendations on this subject.  Again we need to complete a comprehensive plan of cycling networks which include commuting and recreational  use.

5. 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 we 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.?
I would increase the funding for cycling infrastructure as we need to increase our cycling infrastructure for all the reasons cited above. Also if we are to increase cycling we need to make sure that people feel safe on our system. This would dictate that we need to make significant improvements and investments in the system.. Much has been done since I was on BAC but the funding has always been a significant restraint.

6. 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 this is a great idea. It would be wonderful if we have something here. The system in Vancouver allows our citizens to take the West Coast Express for instance into downtown and use a bike to get around in Vancouver.

7. What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?  
Yes the municipality has a role in educating our road users of the road etiquette for both cyclists and motorists. It is very confusing when you are on a bike or in a car and you are not sure what the other road user is going to do. You always need to be extra cautious on the chance that they will not follow the law. Workshops can be done especially with children so they learn the rules of the road early. The Bicycle committee certainly is able to do this. Also for adults as many of them need the same information. The RCMP bike patrol has a role to play in educating the public on safe habits on the road. The signage that indicates to cars that this road is a shared route is important too.

8. How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows?
Yes e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system. They play a role in the continuum of transportation choices. People, for example, who are challenged with chronic illnesses can benefit from having a little extra help while still cycling. E-bikes definitely reduce green house gas, wear and tear on our road infrastructure and in the long term our taxes. They are a better environmental choice over cars. Because suburban development is spread out, e-bikes can potentially encourage people in the outlying areas with long distances to services to e-bike to their destinations.

9. Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community?
Yes although recently I had eye procedures in both eyes and I am somewhat restricted in what I do.

John McKenzie, candidate Maple Ridge Council 2011

1) What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver?
I normally use my car within Maple Ridge, and West Coast Express for my commute to work everyday.

2) How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities?
I used to be on the Ridge Meadows Volunteer Bike Patrols and  know how unsafe some streets are to ride on, like Lougheed Hwy. etc.  I'm in favor of dedicated bike lanes which will provide you with an added amount of safety.  Making it safer is the most important way to encourage people to use their bikes!

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.
Good quality bike racks at all shopping facilities where you can secure your bike and not have to worry about it being stolen is important.  Also if they would have made the sidewalks a little narrower , that would have allowed for a small bike lane on one or both sides of the downtown core improvement project.  But, once again everything is geared to the use of the automobile in planner's minds at city hall! You've got to continually lobby city hall about the benefits of changing this mind set.

4) Maple Ridge has no off-road (non-mountain-) biking/multi-use trails and is lagging behind other Lower Mainland communities in this respect. How do you feel off-road biking/multi-use trails can benefit Maple Ridge, and how do you suggest to start developing a network of trails.
Yes, I like the idea of off-road biking trails and would support council dong this.  It will have the economic benefit of encouraging tourism to our community.

5) 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.?
I would increase this funding and feel it should be based on the need to encourage more bike ridership in our city. I'm going to be dusting off my own bike in the future to get the much needed exercise and save on gas!  Just the health benefits to our community alone, would justify this expenditure.  It is also part of the Metro 2040 Plan of building sustainable and healthy communities!  And, it is part of the Provincial Health Services Authority, (PHSA's) document which I gave to city hall about building healthy cities, by promoting such activities, like biking and walking,  in their planning projects.

6) 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 that it is essential that we incorporate a public bike share system into our transit our planning system.  Free bikes to be used by local residents within our city.

7) What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?
The city has a role of promoting a health society and bike usage is part of that role.  It is part of the Metro 2040 plan and part of the PHSA's building healthy cities education program.

8) How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows?
We must try and reduce our dependency on cars, and bikes are one alternative to do this.  Building up our density in the city core is another way; where people can use their bikes to do their shopping instead of their cars.  And, of course making it safer to ride their bikes!

9) Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community?
Yes, I would be interested.  But, I'd have to whip myself back into riding shape.  I remembered how it just about killed me when I first stared rideing with the bike patrols in Maple Ridge.  It took about one month to get into bike ridding shape.  Just ask Derrick Keist of volunteer bike patrols how I was slow to start, but whipped into excellent shape after a year of riding with them!

Thanks, VACC. You are pursuing a noble cause and our planet will thank you for it; even if certain citizen's don't realize the importance of your efforts!

Kiersten Duncan, candidate Maple Ridge Council 2011

1. What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver?

My car and my own two feet are my main modes of transport in my community and within Metro Vancouver. As I live out in the country it is often too far to bike and bus service is limited so I drive, park, than walk as much as possible. I also have two bad knees due to sports related injuries so I cycle recreationally but do not feel I would be able to bike as my main form of transportation.

2. How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities?

I would support improvements and additions to our current bike lanes to make it safer and easier for cyclists to reach their destination. If elected I would like to get more public feedback on cycling issues and then work with the bicycle advisory committee to see these issues addressed. I would also like to see the public better educated about the many benefits of cycling by starting incentive programs for youth at local schools and youth centres (e.g. Greg Moore & the Leisure Centre).Not only would getting youth cycling promote a healthy active lifestyle, but it would also cut back on traffic and reduce our carbon foot print. Hopefully this will create a good habit that will transfer into adulthood for many youth. I myself need to cycle more so I can lead by example!Please read about my idea of bike lanes in Albion Flats in question 3.

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.

Whenever possible it is best to have separated bike lanes because it is safer and less stressful for both cyclists and drivers. I would like to see a separated bike lane on Albion Flats that would be parallel to Lougheed HWY. I feel this would make Lougheed far more accessible to any mode of non-vehicle transportation and encourage more people to use this route.

4. Maple Ridge has no off-road (non-mountain-) biking/multi-use trails and is lagging behind other Lower Mainland communities in this respect. How do you feel off-road biking/multi-use trails can benefit Maple Ridge, and how do you suggest to start developing a network of trails.

Multi-use trails are great for getting people active and outdoors. By improving our current trails to be more bike friendly and creating new unique multi-use trails we can get more people involved in cycling. This will promote an active lifestyle and get people thinking more about cycling as a main mode of transportation. I feel putting a unique twist to our trails such as making them educational would be fun, different, and more likely to draw people out. Simple plaques about the natural surrounding’s flora and fauna located throughout a path could grow into eco-tourism for Maple Ridge.

5. 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.?

I don’t know how much money is allocated for cycling funding so I need to do more research on the current level of funding for cycling before I state yes or no to this question. What I can say is that I do feel cycling funding levels should reflect the potential of cycling as a means of transportation and for recreation in our community. Because cycling is a rapidly growing mode of transportation that is essential to reducing our carbon emissions I would like to ensure it gets proper funding.

6. 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 a public bike-share system is a fantastic idea and I would love to see it in Maple Ridge. I think it would be especially great in our downtown core for people who want to get their errands done quickly but in an environmentally sensitive way. They could cut down on their carbon emissions and get things done quicker than if they were driving! I do think we need to make major improvements to our bike lanes before this idea will really take off. Once we have established safer cycling routes we can look at implementing such a program. This might also work very well in conjunction with schools and trying to get kids within a few blocks to bike instead of having their parents drive them. This system has worked for many communities in Europe for years, I see no reason why we cannot make it work here.

7. What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?

The municipality needs to take a better role in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists, and motorists. I feel there should be a special focus on educating the public about bike safety (e.g. learning bike signals and how to share the road with cyclists) as well as the many benefits of cycling vs. driving. Because I notice very few recreational cyclists wear helmet’s I feel we should be targeting children to wear helmets in the hope that they will carry this habit into adulthood. I also love candidate Christian Cowley’s idea of more bike lockers and bike lockups near commercial enterprises. I would like to see safer lockups at schools because as a recent graduate I know theft/damage of bikes is a problem at many schools. Cowley is also advocating for a decorative bike rack contest among local businesses, I believe implementing this would be a great step by the municipality in promoting cycling.

8. How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows?

E-bikes are a great alternative to the conventional bicycle because they lessen the physical strain on cyclists who intend to ride for long distances, those with injuries such as myself, and are just plain fun! E-bikes are far more affordable compared to cars and help keep people active. I think if we advertised them and made them more readily available to our youth it could become the next big fad. E-bikes give youth who are too young to drive the independence to take themselves places. For those able to drive it is a more affordable, healthier, and environmentally friendly form of transportation.

9. Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community?

Yes, I would love to come out and bike through the community. Hopefully on a sunny day!

Craig Ruthven, mayoral candidate Maple Ridge 2011

1. What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver?
I use my vehicle to and from work.  When I am home, I walk through the Maple Crest trails as well as down town when I am shopping for various items.  I am pretty high energy, so I need to burn some of that energy of walking around.  When I am down town Vancouver, I walk over several blocks rather than taking the bus, often to the chagrin of some of my friends.

2. How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities?
I think that we should introduce the biking culture as early as possible. ie. within the school curriculum.  With respect to the position of mayor, I would work tirelessly to provide more parks and trails for the suburbs where there is very little continuity between communities-- even with communities.  It all starts with people getting out and voting for representatives from their own areas.  That way, someone is considering their local interests, specifically.  The outlying areas are grossly underrepresented, which is why I am strongly encouraging everyone to vote.
We should be tying our tourism promotions to biking, because, really it is all of the amazing outdoor space that makes Maple Ridge so remarkable.  If we can promote our parks and trails, we can fund more bikes and trails.

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.

You know, Albion, for instance, is not that far away from down town by bike.  I think everyone would like to see fewer people driving their cars around town.  Jackie, as you have pointed out, you really don't feel very secure biking up Lougheed Highway with all of the traffic zipping by.  This major E-W route should be prioritized for a separated bike lane, but it would take some real commitment and patience, as it is not a municipal road.
I still support the idea any how.

4. Maple Ridge has no off-road (non-mountain-) biking/multi-use trails and is lagging behind other Lower Mainland communities in this respect. How do you feel off-road biking/multi-use trails can benefit Maple Ridge, and how do you suggest to start developing a network of trails.
If I am elected mayor, I will be initiating a district wide contest where everyone will be invited to come up with branding for our local tourism and business.  Essentially, the question will be what is the essence that we want to promote to the world out there?
I am anticipating that it may well be tied into to outdoor adventures, including mountain biking and hiking.  Regardless, outdoor recreation simply has to tie in there somewhere.
You are right in pointing out that we are lagging behind biking trails, but that is  really the case with all sorts of features that "complete communities" typically get, like sidewalks, parks, local shops, etc.  Maple Ridge needs to make a shift from hurried residential development to real community building.  That starts with a mayor and council paying attention to the detail and requiring more of developers.  It also starts with a reformed planning department that encourages outside investment, rather than discourage it.  Maybe then we can attract developers interested in doing an eclectic mixtures of features, including mixed used communities with excellent biking trails, taking their cues from Whistler.

5. 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.?

I believe that there is great hunger out their for all of the features that make complete communities, including bike trails.  We need more specific requirements on developers to make these a reality.

Yes, I support increasing the funding, so long as it is in areas where many will benefit.  I also believe that we need to plan and begin to invest for the future now, regardless if there is obvious demand for more investment in cycling.
Do I commit to continue to work and look for ways to improve our cycling network whenever there is an opportunity?
I see cycling as dovetailing nicely into our future growth and community promotions, so, yes.  Maple Ridge needs a marketing plan that will power our ideas.
Will I encourage staff to look for funding opportunities from other agencies?
Absolutely.

6. 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 haven't really thought much about it until you mentioned it, to be honest, but I think that it could serve a good number of residents, especially while we are waiting for improvements to transit in the outlying areas.

I would want to see this happen on a trial basis first, to see how people take to it.

7. What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?
The municipality is charged with the duty to provide safe roads and sidewalks, so it goes without saying that we really ought to be informing people about proper etiquette for the road.  That's huge, because many people don't know how to react to cyclists and many cyclists don't follow the rules, particularly down town.  I think that we should dedicate a section on municipal website promoting cycling as a transportation option as well as supplying the rules of the road.
Maybe we could help the Cycling Coalition get into some of the local schools, but I am not really sure how we would do this, as they fall under provincial jurisdiction.  We could likely collaborate with the provincial government, as the earlier, the better.   

8. How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
They could be viable means for getting people to and from work, locally.  They would not get most commuters off the road, though.
What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
People can get more exercise (some) and it may help to strengthen the core.  Less emissions.  Less noise, I think.
What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows?
Connectivity and ease of connectivity.

9. Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community?
Very much, but certainly after the campaign is over.  I barely digest my dinner these days!

Cheryl Ashlie, candidate Maple Ridge Council 2011

1. What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver? I drive my car, ride my bike and walk in my community. If I go into Vancouver I drive or use West Coast Express if the time is conducive to my schedule.
 

2. How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities? For people to opt for cycling as a mode of transportation they need to feel that they have safe and accessible routes throughout the community. I would continue to support bike lane expansion and safe bike routes throughout our community by working with our bicycle advisory committee, and ensuring the work is continued through our business planning. I would also continue to model what I expect by using my bike whenever I can for commuting to council (I split this between walking and riding).

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? I am in support of this and we achieve it by making it part of our business plan and continue to include sections along our roadways whenever dollars are made available. Our present council takes the bicycle advisory committee’s work seriously and we try to implement their plans wherever and whenever possible.

4. Maple Ridge has no off-road (non-mountain-) biking/multi-use trails and is lagging behind other Lower Mainland communities in this respect. How do you feel off-road biking/multi-use trails can benefit Maple Ridge, and how do you suggest to start developing a network of trails.I think our dyke system is an off-road biking/multi-use trail system, which I use all the time to bike on. However, if you are suggesting a system of trails in Golden Ears, Blue Mountain or the expansion of our horse trail system to also accommodate bikes and pedestrians, I believe it would be best served going through our Joint Leisure Commission and the Master Parks Plan, which defines the priorities and the budgeting of such for all of our recreational services. Any expansion of recreation is good, but we have to keep it in the context of affordability and we need to make sure we are putting the dollars right now to getting the bike lanes through the municipality completed.

 5. 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.? I agree with the health benefits—people and planet—and I would continue the level of funding, as well as ensure it remains a body of work that is viewed as a constant. The support for the bicycle advisory committee that our council has shown is because we believe that bicycling is a growing part of our culture and will be used for more than just recreational purposes. Our council is always ready to take advantage of any grant monies that come from other levels of government. So if there were funding opportunities, such as matching funds, that would achieve an expanded bike lane system, then that is when increasing funding has merit and we should always be ready to take advantage of such. Our staff is always looking for these opportunities and get very creative!

6. 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 have just read about this working in other jurisdictions. I suspect we need to ensure our safe routes are completed, so a concentration of transit/bike-share users can emerge, as I would suspect we would need a critical mass to make it work. Once our safe routes are established however, I suspect all of the spin-offs of a vibrant biking community will follow. If it is successful in Vancouver, then as per usual, it will spread out into the region.

7. What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists? We have an excellent working relationship with the school district, especially through the Joint Leisure Agreement and the Commission table that facilitates the discussions. Our role has always been to collaborate with our partners and ensure that we can garner the most efficient and effective means of providing services to our citizens. I believe this is our best means of looking for educational opportunities. We also have a great relationship with ICBC and take full advantage of any programs that are aimed at motorists. I remember working with municipal staff when I was on the school board and Safer Cities was initiated. Our council has always been and will continue to be open to any options that come our way and support our business plans and goals.

8. How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows? They are another viable option for getting around. People are already using them and they appear to be on the increase in Maple Ridge. They are an affordable option, take up less room on the road, require less fuel and with a good set of raingear, they will work for a certain percentage of the population. I hope we embrace them, as we are way behind on these products in comparison to other countries. However, I have heard a couple of homemade ones and they were extremely noisy, so we have to pay some attention to ensuring poorly constructed ones are monitored so they do not tarnish the product line as a whole. Other than that, I welcome them in Maple Ridge and think they will work well.

9. Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community? I have and I will, but I need notice as the dates have not been working for me. I also do riding on my own, so I do get my time in on my bike.

Corisa Bell, candidate Maple Ridge Council 2011

1.       What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver?
We live in Rock Ridge and the road out of our community has no extra space for pedestrians, whether walking or cycling.  I would like to see roads and bike lanes improved in our community including the roadway which leads to Golden Ears Lake.  In the last two years I have seen multiple car accidents on this road and have seen one child hit by a car while they were biking – I’m surprised I haven’t seen more. 
Our family including my mom and dad enjoy riding bikes together.  Typically we have to drive to safe places to bike such as Barnston Island.  We also do not have a bus running up to our area, and with two children we can’t take the bus as we would have to walk home in the dark.  We do our best to reduce emissions and plan errand runs along with trips to dance or pick-up or drop-off from school.  We had to take a huge loss on a Saturn hybrid we previously bought as it would break down on us routinely despite being purchased new.  We now drive a Hyundai Santa Fe which uses 10-11L per 100km.
There are no convenient connections between Maple Ridge and Vancouver.  The West Coast Express runs on business hours and the bus commute, especially with two children, is a long series of transfers which takes many hours each way.  When travelling around Vancouver we walk or sky train depending on distance.

2.       How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities?
Maple Ridge needs to become more dense and create paths for cycling to be safe and practical.  As the city then grows, these paths can become increasingly larger.  Our community also needs to improve infrastructure so that people feel safe on a bike. 

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.
Obviously safety is the biggest issue here.  The road from Albion to Lougheed for example is of particular concern for me as my husband and daughter used to bike it frequently and the lack of a divider caused me to cringe every time.  Separated cycling facilities on key routes I believe would encourage more biking.

4.       Maple Ridge has no off-road (non-mountain-) biking/multi-use trails and is lagging behind other Lower Mainland communities in this respect. How do you feel off-road biking/multi-use trails can benefit Maple Ridge, and how do you suggest to start developing a network of trails.
Connecting Maple Ridge to existing trails of other communities would be the most cost effective way to start developing a network and would increase awareness of such trails in our community by connecting with other cyclists.

5.       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.?
Our ability to rely on oil has an expiration date.  We need to look at providing alternates and need to ensure the groundwork for our future takes this into account so we don’t build our city in a way that makes this difficult or financially problematic.  I would like to see a long term plan created for the future of cycling in our community and arrange to see responsible, gradual spending to see this achieved.

6.       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 believe we need far better cycling infrastructure in Maple Ridge before this makes sense for us.

7.       What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?
The municipality and councillors I believe have a role of liaison to the cyclist coalitions and organizations who are passionate about cycling and who can provide insight necessary to understand and support cycling for the benefit of our community.  The municipality then has the responsibility of ensuring the infrastructure, safety and implementation of such support.

8.       How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
E-bikes can be used to encourage less physically fit users, or those with physical limitations, to reduce their reliance on carbon emission travels as well as encourage them to engage and participate in riding with friends and family.

9.       What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
E-bikes are cheaper to purchase, cheaper to maintain, and cheaper to run.  They can reduce our reliance on oil and let’s not forget they’re much easier to park than cars!  The environmental benefits over cars are extensive and anything that can be done to ease congestion is a huge benefit.

10.   What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows?
Due to the sprawl of our community, many people are far from town and the length of a bike ride to go anywhere meaningful is beyond their general cycling ability and/or their time crunched schedule.  E-bikes can provide an alternative to general biking for the practical rider as opposed to the enthusiast.

11.   Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community?
My family and I would love to!

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.

Christian Cowley, candidate Maple Ridge Council 2011

1. What modes of transportation do you normally use within your community and within Metro Vancouver?
I normally commute by automobile because I carry up to 3 children to school on rural roads that do not safely accommodate bicycles. In summer during school vacation, I ride my bicycle to work three out of four days. I have to carry gardening implements and volunteers as passengers on the fourth day. I enjoy bike commuting.

2. How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation - for people of all ages and abilities - to promote healthy and livable communities?
I do support and encourage cycling for transportation. We need some critical bike infrastructure to make it succeed. In addition to safe bikeways, we need bike lockers and bike lockups near commercial enterprises. I have been advocating for a decorative bike rack contest among local businesses since the last election. I hope to see this idea implemented. 
 
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.
I would take a serious look at creating an east-west separated lane for non-vehicular traffic on a major artery that bisects the downtown, most likely DTR. This would create direct linkages to north-south roadways, making it possible to shop and commute by bicycle in the core.

4. Maple Ridge has no off-road (non-mountain-) biking/multi-use trails and is lagging behind other Lower Mainland communities in this respect. How do you feel off-road biking/multi-use trails can benefit Maple Ridge, and how do you suggest to start developing a network of trails.
Biking and multi-use trails, combined with our equestrian trail network and the Trans Canada trail network all add up to an opportunity for eco-tourism. There is a definite business model for advancing the creation of these trails. I suggest we start with something like the recreational roadway proposed by the Alouette Valley Assoc. It would distinguish our town from others.

5. 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.?
I am the co-founder of the Golden Ears Transition Initiative, which looks at issues related to climate change and peak oil and attempts to create greater resilience in our towns. I am in favour of budget allocations that make spending on cycling effective. We have to reduce overall carbon emissions by 30% by 2050. Cycling is the best remedy so far. I am studying the feasibility of transporting restaurant waste for composting by bicycles.

6. 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 am interested in any system that makes transit and cycling more attractive. A bike share system in every community, including Maple Ridge, would be an attractive addition to our town amenities and create new jobs. I would also look at private-sector participation.

7. What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?
I think the municipality can partner with other organizations, such as ICBC and bicycle advocacy groups, to educate the public on safe cycling and sharing the road. Motorists are trained to look for two headlights and often miss other forms of transport, such as pedestrians and cyclists. We need to insert different training into drivers tests and to launch an awareness campaign. Over time, this may improve driver behavior.
 
8. How do you feel e-bikes can play a role in our transportation system?
What do you see as the benefits of e-bikes as compared to cars?
What can e-bikes mean for less densely populated suburban communities like Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows?
E-bikes pose some interesting questions. Once the number of e-bikes on the road (and sidewalks) increases, we may need to examine licensing issues. E-bikes have great potential for GHG emissions reduction and may attract a wider following than human-powered cycles. However, the accident statistics will have to be closely watched to see how well they integrate with the remaining automobiles on the road because of the speed differences and limitations.   
 
9. Would you be interested in joining members of the Vancouver Area Cycling Coalition on a bike ride through your community?
Yes, I will happily ride with VACC chapter members in my official capacity as Councillor. I look forward to support from the biking community.