There are many reasons to bike to work, so it should be easy for Powell River residents to hang up their car keys next week and hop on their bicycles. Bike to Work Week is May 28 to June 3 and there are a number of celebration stations and events to promote cycling.
Cycling benefits everyone, not just people who ride frequently. Cycling fosters improved public health, less traffic congestion, safer streets, lower energy use and a cleaner, safer environment.
For the cyclist, health reasons abound: increased cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance, flexibility, endurance, stamina and calories burned up. Riding a bike releases stress and the cyclist arrives at work feeling relaxed, energized and happier about the world.
Environmental responsibility is another good reason to bike. Greenhouse gases emitted by vehicles cause global warming, which is not just a concern for the future; it’s happening right now. As well, vehicles consume a staggering amount of energy while the earth’s supply of oil is finite.
More cyclists mean less congestion in the streets and less need for expensive road projects that divert government money from other important infrastructure improvements. Off-road paths, bike lanes and other bike improvements cost a fraction of what it takes to widen streets and highways.
Policies that are good for cyclists actually benefit everyone on the streets. Good conditions for cycling also create good conditions for pedestrians. What makes streets safer for bikes also makes them safer for motorists.
People need to feel safe on their bikes, but many fear riding on busy streets with speeding traffic. Sharing is the best way to help people feel safer. Streets are not for the exclusive use of moving and parked cars. They are shared space belonging to everyone.
City of Powell River officials have made some improvements to ensure safe biking. Signs marking bike routes and advising motorists to share the road have been erected. Stencils were painted along Manson Avenue to indicate sharrows, areas of the road shared by vehicles and cyclists. A cycling master plan is being prepared.
The city’s official community plan includes a provision to create one kilometre of new bike lanes annually. It appears that provision has fallen off the radar for city officials, but it hasn’t been forgotten by cycling advocates.
Continued funding to improve cycling conditions in the community represents a sound investment that has the potential to further define Powell River as a healthy, environmentally conscious and active community that promotes sustainable living.
