In 2022, cycling is more popular than ever. And in the current context, it is positioned as a simple solution to complex problems such as climate change or inflation and contributes to improving the health of Quebecers. This is why the bicycle must have a greater place in the various government policies. It is in this context that Vélo Québec presents its priorities to the political parties.
Posted at 10:00 a.m.
These requests revolve around three major themes: investments supporting the development of cycling facilities, road safety and the promotion of the use of bicycles for active transportation or leisure purposes. More than simple themes, these three subjects are the pillars of the advancement of cycling in Quebec society.
In the context of the upcoming elections, these themes are part of a large set of societal choices that Quebecers must make: fight frankly against inflation and the ecological crisis, or accept the status quo. We believe that action must be taken now, or we will find ourselves decades behind when these already pressing issues become undeniable.
Concrete proposals
This choice involves, in particular, increasing the amounts invested in financial assistance programs for municipalities for active transportation infrastructures. An annual minimum of $100 million, instead of the $41 to 48 million currently invested, would allow municipalities to catch up on developing infrastructure for walking and cycling, in addition to building complete streets.
A full street? From English complete streetthe complete street is designed and laid out to be safe, practical and enjoyable for all users, regardless of their mode of transportation, physical condition or age.
The Ministère des Transports du Québec (MTQ) must respect this principle in all its projects within urban perimeters, particularly in the hearts of villages. These nerve centers of many Quebec municipalities must be designed with all their users in mind, instead of being developed by prioritizing the fluidity of automobile traffic passing through them.
Financing and developing the road network so that the needs of cyclists are systematically integrated into it will help to develop the practice of cycling among those who do not feel safe enough to pedal at the moment. To go further and encourage more Quebecers to get into the saddle, this increase will have to be supported with substantial financial incentives for the purchase of bicycles and electrically assisted bicycles (VAE), as has been done on the Island. Prince Edward Island, the Yukon or France. The versatility of the pedelec makes it an important tool for promoting active transportation; whether its use is utilitarian, professional or leisure, this type of bicycle offers a real alternative to the solo car as well as a credible option for practicing sustainable transportation on a larger scale.
The importance of acting now
Acting on these points means acting for the present and for the future. It means accepting the great challenges of our time and looking them in the face with courage and ambition. It means thinking about our planet, our health, our quality of life, and those that we will leave to future generations.
While the development of new road links dominates the debates, Vélo Québec wishes to refocus the conversation on sustainable solutions, which take into account the needs of all road users.