Less than a week following the success of Bike Day in Canada, I was saddened to hear about the tragic loss of two members of Whistler’s cycling community in addition to a member of the Lil’wat First Nation.
Recognition of the importance and value of cycling continues to rapidly increase, but this accident underscores the need not only for greater awareness but a fundamental change in how cycling integrates into communities.
To contribute to this change, I am working with cycling clubs and organizations to create a National Strategy on Cycling. This initiative aims to change transportation planning and national budgeting to enhance cycling across Canada.
To maximize the effectiveness of the strategy I am consulting with cycling advocates throughout the corridor and want to hear from you. At my invitation, Arne Elias, chair of the federal non-profit Canada Bikes, will be moderating a meeting with me, Senator Nancy Greene Raine and other concerned cyclists on Saturday (June 20) from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Brennan Park Recreation Centre in Squamish.
My hope is that initiatives like the Attorney-General’s new proposed law, the Cycling Town Hall I convened in Ottawa on May 25, and this forum on cycling safety in Squamish will create positive change. For the sake of Ross Chafe and Kelly Blunden, who were struck on June 7 while cycling north of Whistler, and those who loved them, grief can compel us to take action. For them, and for all who bike, may we bring about enhanced rules and policies, for both drivers and cyclists.
As the Whistler cycling community copes with its loss, we all must work together to create a safe environment for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles. With your help, we can make Whistler, B.C. and Canada safe, high-quality and sustainable communities – great places where we all want to live and work.
John Weston, MP
