BIKE LANES- NEUFELD- FEBRUARY 26, 2018
Though driving may be understandably necessary in rural areas, one can reasonably achieve most of their personal transportation needs throughout the Greater Victoria area through combined use of walking, public transit, and cycling. Driving, though quick and convenient, comes at a cost- The Guardian reported in January that the largest source of greenhouse gas pollution in the U.S. was now vehicle emissions. Luring drivers away from the convenience of driving means providing appealing alternatives. Continuing to expand Victoria’s bike lanes will make cycling a more attractive option.
While on-road cycling can be a safe option for experienced cyclists with proper training, the prospect of sharing the road with motor vehicles can be intimidating, particularly for those who are less experienced. Bike lanes, especially protected ones, invite cyclists of all levels of experience to use them. In fact, a 2014 study by the Portland State University showed that installation of protected bike lanes in five major U.S. cities increased ridership from between 21 and 171 percent.
Statistics Canada describes lower rates of bicycle-related collisions and deaths in areas where bike usage is more common, due to a “safety in numbers” mindset. This phenomenon has also been noted outside of Canada, including in Minneapolis, where cycling tripled between 1993 and 2011, but collisions did not increase. Increased ridership through a quality, expansive bike lane system will, in fact, make biking in Victoria even safer.
Victoria is a progressive city, and the capital of a progressive province. We have an opportunity to set an example of how transportation infrastructure can evolve with the times, and we have already begun with the completion of the Pandora Avenue bike lane and construction beginning on Fort Street. We should continue to pursue the expansion of the bike lanes, even in the face of criticism. As more and more of Victoria becomes accessible by protected bike lanes, confidence in the system will grow, ridership will increase, and vehicle traffic congestion will decrease. And we will demonstrate that we are dynamic, environmentally conscious leaders in the battle against greenhouse gas pollution.
I think you make a strong point by referring to statistics on bicycle related collisions. It is a safe way of transportation and the more people bike the less is their risk of being in an deadly accident. Also biking in urban areas is not an option but a necessity. It is one of the imperatives of living in a city.
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