Newsroom - Transportation and Infrastructure tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2011-03-30://1 2013-04-15T18:30:22Z Movable Type Enterprise 4.38 Mufford overpass moves ahead to reduce congestion tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5883 2013-04-13T16:15:00Z 2013-04-15T18:30:22Z Construction will soon start on the Mufford/64th Ave at Highway 10 project to improve road safety and reduce the response time of emergency vehicles. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ LANGLEY- Construction will soon start on the Mufford/64th Ave at Highway 10 project to improve road safety and reduce the response time of emergency vehicles, while minimizing the impact on agriculture land in the Langley area. The Province has awarded the contract to Lafarge Canada.

The new rail overpass will also accommodate increasing volumes of international freight shipped through Lower Mainland communities, supporting the Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan goal of strengthening our infrastructure to get our goods to market.

Total funding for the project contributed by the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor (RBRC) partners is $51M:

  • $12.5M from the province,
  • $3.1M from federal government, 
  • $24M from TransLink,
  •  $9.3M from the Township of Langley, and
  • $2.1M from Port Metro Vancouver.

The Mufford project in Langley will eliminate an at-grade rail crossing to improve safety and road network reliability, and reduce delays and traffic congestion. The project also includes various other improvements to the 64th Avenue corridor from 204 Street to 216 Street to provide better road network connectivity and improve access to Glover Road and Highway 10.

The Mufford project is also one of nine in the $307-million Roberts Bank Rail Corridor (RBRC) Program throughout the Lower Mainland designed to relieve traffic congestion and improve public safety.

The RBRC is expected to carry increasing volumes of goods from around the world that we use here every day, as well as Canadian exports and is a key part of B.C.'s growing trade with Asia through Canada's Pacific Gateway. Pacific Gateway partners have committed $22 billion to expand and enhance port, rail, road, and airport infrastructure in the Pacific Gateway to meet those growing demands.

Quotes:

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak

"The Mufford overpass shows more progress on the Roberts Bank Rail Corridor improvements, which will reduce congestion and provide safer, more reliable access within communities along the corridor. It also means we can move our goods to markets, moving goods and people more efficiently."

Fort Langley-Aldergrove MLA Rich Coleman

"This overpass will increase safety for commuters, as well as function as a time-saver for people who use these routes on a daily basis. Furthermore, the Mufford overpass will boost our local economy, as it will provide a faster, more effective route."

Quick Facts:

The Roberts Bank Rail Corridor

  • The RBRC program comprises eight overpasses and one railway siding in a 70-kilometre stretch that connects Roberts Bank, which contains Canada's largest container facility (Deltaport) and coal terminal (Westshore), within the North American rail network.
  • This 70-kilometre international freight corridor carries up to 18 trains per day, many of them more than two kilometres long. The rail traffic is expected to increase to 28-38 trains per day by 2021.
  • The RBRC Program is funded by 12 public and private partners: Transport Canada, the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, TransLink, Port Metro Vancouver, the Corporation of Delta, the City of Surrey, the City of Langley, the Township of Langley, CN, Canadian Pacific, BC Railway Company, and BNSF Railway.

Learn More:

http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/

http://www.robertsbankrailcorridor.ca/proposed-projects/mufford-64th-avenue-at-hwy-10/_rbrc_project

Contact:

Robert Adam
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 413-7941

]]> Original and new plaques unveiled for Port Mann Bridge tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5830 2013-04-11T17:45:00Z 2013-04-22T21:22:42Z The two finishing touches on the new Port Mann Bridge - a 1964 commemorative plaque from the original bridge and a new plaque to mark the opening of the new crossing - were unveiled in a ceremony on the old bridge. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ COQUITLAM - The two finishing touches on the new Port Mann Bridge - a 1964 commemorative plaque from the original bridge and a new plaque to mark the opening of the new crossing - were unveiled today in a ceremony on the old bridge.

Both plaques will be mounted along the brand new Port Mann Bridge pedestrian and cycling path once the bridge is completed to its full 10-lane width.

The new plaque reads: "Dedicated to the thousands of builders, designers and visionaries responsible for the Port Mann / Highway 1 Project - the largest transportation infrastructure project in British Columbia's history; December 2012".

The original plaque was recovered from the first Port Mann Bridge where it was installed at the approach to the crossing. Crews are working to dismantle the original span so the new bridge can be completed to its final 10-lane width and the multi-user path for pedestrians and cyclists can be connected from Coquitlam to Surrey.

A traffic engineering survey that measured Highway 1 travel times before and after Port Mann Bridge construction was also released today. This survey confirmed drivers are experiencing significant time savings, with many commuters cutting their commute times by as much as half.

The survey shows drivers travelling between Langley and Vancouver have already eliminated 35 minutes from their overall trip. In fact, drivers during peak morning periods are reaching their final destination before they would have made it across the original five-lane Port Mann Bridge.

Drivers travelling between Surrey and Coquitlam on the new Port Mann Bridge are already cutting their commute time by nearly 60 per cent. These time savings are expected to increase even more once additional highway lanes and improvements west of the Brunette Avenue Interchange are finished.

Phase two of construction will continue on the Port Mann Bridge and along the Highway 1 corridor through 2013. Crews will keep working to complete the bridge to its full 10-lane capacity and continue highway widening and interchange improvements through Coquitlam, Burnaby and Vancouver.

When Phase Two of the project is complete and improvements to Highway 1 from Coquitlam to Vancouver are open to traffic, many drivers will be saving up to an hour a day.

Quote:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Mary Polak -

"Today, we are recognizing the original Port Mann Bridge while celebrating the difference the new Port Mann is making in the lives of commuters and goods movers. Thousands of builders, designers and visionaries were responsible for the construction of this new crossing, and this plaque will serve as a permanent reminder of our gratitude for building the widest bridge in the world and reducing our daily commute."

Learn More:

Learn more about the Port Mann/Highway 1 Improvement Project online at: www.pmh1project.com/Pages/default.aspx

Learn more about transportation projects happening throughout B.C. at: www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/

A backgrounder follows.

Contacts:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Greg Johnson
Communications Manager
Transportation Investment Corporation
778 783-1220

Original and new plaques unveiled for Port Mann Bridge

BACKGROUNDER

Port Mann Bridge time savings survey

The Port Mann/Highway 1 Improvement Project will reduce congestion and improve access and safety along Highway 1 between Langley and Vancouver, reducing travel times by up to an hour per day for many commuters.

A traffic engineering firm was retained to measure pre-existing and current corridor travel times and to estimate future time savings upon project completion. All routes were travelled several times and tracked by GPS to accurately measure and estimate the average travel times.

To measure pre-existing travel times, the routes listed below were driven in peak traffic conditions prior to Dec. 1, 2012. To measure current travel times, the same routes were driven in peak conditions post-Dec. 1, 2012.

Future travel times reflect estimated travel times once the PMH1 Project is complete.

176th St. @ 96th Ave. to Brunette Ave. @ Lougheed - morning drive
Travel time before improvements: 35 minutes
Current travel time: 11 minutes
Estimated travel time at project completion: 10 minutes

Brunette Ave. @ Lougheed to 176th St. @ 96th Ave. - afternoon drive
Travel time before improvements: 17 minutes
Current travel time: 11 minutes
Estimated travel time at project completion: 10 minutes

200th St. @ 80th Ave. to Boundary Rd. @ Grandview - morning drive
Morning travel time before improvements: 68 minutes
Current travel time: 40 minutes
Estimated travel time at project completion: 23 minutes

Boundary Rd. @ Grandview to 200th St. @ 80th Ave. - afternoon drive
Morning travel time before improvements: 39 minutes
Current travel time: 32 minutes
Estimated travel time at project completion: 23 minutes

Contacts:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Greg Johnson
Communications Manager
Transportation Investment Corporation
778 783-1220

]]> South Fraser Perimeter Road turns trash to treasure tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5797 2013-04-10T16:45:00Z 2013-04-16T15:47:47Z An abandoned landfill has been transformed into prime industrial land and is now home to a local business in Delta. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ DELTA - An abandoned landfill has been transformed into prime industrial land and is now home to a local business in Delta.

This is a result of the innovative environmental design of the South Fraser Perimeter Road project and a strong partnership and shared vision between the government of B.C., the Corporation of Delta and local land owners.

A section of the SFPR runs through five landfill sites located south of the Fraser River and north of Burns Bog in Delta. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure worked with Delta, landowners and the Ministry of Environment to promote closure and redevelopment of the landfills during SFPR construction.

Through the Delta Landfill Renewal Project, an innovative underground leachate and methane gas collection system was built and designed to allow other landfill owners to connect to it and close their landfill sites. This project received a Consulting Engineers of BC 2012 award for Engineering Excellence.

As a result of this work, Ocean Trailer has rehabilitated the largest landfill in the area and has moved its business to the industrial land created by the landfill closures. In addition, new industrial land created by the SFPR landfill work is being leased to Ocean Trailer for trailer storage. The other four landfills in the area are in various stages of the closing process.

The SFPR project includes one of the largest environmental and agricultural mitigation and enhancement plans for a highway construction project of this size in British Columbia. In addition to the landfill site improvements, this commitment includes wildlife crossings, improvements in drainage to protect Burns Bog and fisheries habitat improvements.

The SFPR is a new approximately 40-kilometre, four-lane highway along the south side of the Fraser River. The eastern portion from Highway 1 at 176th St. to 136th St. opened in December 2012. The remainder, from 136th St. in Surrey to Deltaport Way in Delta, will open to traffic in December 2013.

The SFPR is a key piece of B.C.'s transportation network, which will generate economic growth by connecting key port, rail and highway infrastructure, making the province more competitive.

The SFPR supports Canada Starts Here - The BC Jobs Plan. The plan is working to expand markets for B.C. products, particularly in Asia, and strengthen infrastructure to get our goods to market. The project will improve economic and business opportunities and lead to 7,000 long-term jobs in Delta and Surrey through improved industrial development opportunities along the corridor. In addition, more than 4,000 jobs are being created during construction of the entire project.

The Government of Canada through the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative provided $365 million towards the $1.26 billion project. The government of B.C. contributed the remaining $899 million.

South Fraser Perimeter Road turns trash to treasure

Quotes:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Mary Polak -

"The SFPR is more than a highway project; it includes one of the largest environmental and agricultural mitigation enhancement plans for a highway construction project of this size in B.C's history. This landfill renewal project is just one example of the work being done to protect the environment as part of the SFPR project. I commend Mayor Lois Jackson for her leadership and vision in bringing this project to fruition."

Minister of Environment Terry Lake -

"This valuable renewal project has transformed a construction wasteland into valuable industrial land, while providing the highest standards of environmental protection to the surrounding area, including Burns Bog and the Fraser River ecosystems. This is an environmental, agricultural and economic success story that will benefit communities and families for years to come."

Mayor of Delta Lois Jackson -

"I am very honoured to receive this recognition for Delta's role in seeing this former landfill site remediated and transformed into productive industrial land. Mr. Keay of Ocean Trailer is to be commended for taking on this very challenging project. With the considerable support of the provincial government and the Gateway Program, this collaborative effort has brought significant environmental, economic and social benefits to the area."

Ocean Trailer president Sid Keay -

"Seven years ago I was told that turning Delta Shake & Shingle Landfill into useable industrial land was impossible. Through simple cooperation and a common goal with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, Ministry of Environment and the Corporation of Delta we are standing on clean, green, industrial land today."

Learn More:

Watch a video about the history of the Landfill Closure Project: youtu.be/B0Ur8N0Unrg

For information about the SFPR project: www.sfprconstruction.ca

For information about SFPR environmental projects: bit.ly/12GLX2z

For a high resolution before and after graphic of the landfill: flic.kr/p/ea3B1T

For information about the SFPR and the Gateway Program: www.gatewayprogram.bc.ca

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241


]]> Government, Mayors' Council set targets for governance, funding tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5762 2013-04-08T16:45:00Z 2013-04-08T23:12:12Z The government of British Columbia and the Mayors' Council on Regional Transportation are combining forces to come up with sustainable and long-term transit solutions that meet the needs of families and communities. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANCOUVER - The government of British Columbia and the Mayors' Council on Regional Transportation are combining forces to come up with sustainable and long-term transit solutions that meet the needs of families and communities.

The Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and the Mayors' Council on Regional Transportation have agreed on a process to work together. The new process will outline findings and recommendations on how to move forward with governance and funding, as well as engaging the public. This will allow government to consider legislative changes in spring 2014.

In 2012, TransLink made substantial cost savings. However, even with those savings, the region needs new funding sources to expand service and meet growing demand.

The council has proposed several new funding sources. The minister and the council will also consider these sources and their work should lead to a better understanding of the funding options and what the public has to say about them.

Government will support funding tools that are affordable for families, regionally sourced, avoid negative effects on the economy, and capture benefits from the substantial investments made in Metro Vancouver's transportation system.

The council also has been expressing concerns about the governance structure for TransLink, and they recently commissioned an independent review of governance. The minister and council will develop governance options that work for all parties, including taxpayers in Metro Vancouver.

Quotes:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Mary Polak -

"The recent independent TransLink Governance Review points out there is more right than there is wrong with TransLink. There is a gap in the governance model that I believe can be addressed. Together with Mayor Walton and Mayor Wright, I have developed a solid process that will outline findings and recommendations on how to move forward on TransLink governance and funding. Demand for transit is growing and we need to find a solution."

Mayors' Council on Regional Transportation chair Richard Walton -

"Mayor Wright and I are confident this renewed support and focus by all levels of government will enable us to find solutions that will address the funding and governance challenges we are facing. There is no doubt that an effective and efficient transit service is a critical part of our transportation system, an important contributor to our economy and good for our environment. Residents of our communities rely on our services each and every day and we owe it to them to ensure we get this right."

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 356-8241

]]> Phase 2 of Monte Creek-Pritchard project moves forward tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5676 2013-04-03T21:45:00Z 2013-04-04T21:03:57Z Phase 2 of the project to improve safety on Highway 1 between Monte Creek and Pritchard is going to tender this week, with construction to begin this year. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - Phase 2 of the project to improve safety on Highway 1 between Monte Creek and Pritchard is going to tender this week, with construction to begin this year.

Phase 2 of the Monte Creek to Pritchard project will widen a 7.5-kilometre section of Highway 1 to four lanes, with a grade-separated interchange at Pritchard. This work will improve safety and increase capacity and movement on this important route for commuters, commercial traffic and tourists.

Safety improvements include 2.5-metre-wide paved shoulders and a 2.6-metre-wide median with concrete barrier. There also will be improved access to the highway with turn lanes, deceleration lanes and new frontage roads. The new interchange at Pritchard will significantly improve access to and from the Trans-Canada Highway for local residents.

Phase 1 of the project, which widened a three-kilometre section of Highway 1 to four lanes between Monte Creek and Bostock Road, was completed in 2012. Phase 2 is scheduled for completion in 2014.

The total cost of the Monte Creek to Pritchard project is $49 million. The Government of Canada is contributing up to a maximum of $16.7 million through the Building Canada Fund. The government of B.C. is investing $32.3 million for this highway safety improvement.

The Highway 1 Monte Creek to Pritchard project is part of the Government of B.C.'s commitment to invest $650 million over 10 years into Highway 1 between Kamloops and the Alberta border. The Highway 1 Kamloops to Alberta Four-Laning Program will create 3,300 direct jobs over the next 10 years.

Quotes:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Mary Polak -

"This work supports our government's commitment to improve Highway 1 between Kamloops and the Alberta border. A wider, divided highway will improve safety for local families and other highway users, and will make one of our key trade corridors that much more reliable."

Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake -

"Improvements to the Trans-Canada Highway east of Kamloops will make for better connections between local communities, and reduce travel times along the Trans-Canada Highway during peak travel periods. Making Highway 1 safer and more reliable is a priority for our government."

Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger -

"Highway 1 between Monte Creek and Pritchard is very busy, particularly in the summer months. When complete, this section of Highway 1 will be safer for local residents and visitors to our region, and our province's main east-west link will be much improved."

Learn More:

Learn more about transportation projects happening throughout B.C. at: www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/

Follow the work of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure online at: www.tranbc.ca

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

]]> RapidBus BC coming to West Kelowna tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5659 2013-04-02T19:45:00Z 2013-04-05T19:22:06Z RapidBus BC is coming to West Kelowna, making it easier and faster for families and commuters to travel. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ WEST KELOWNA - RapidBus BC is coming to West Kelowna, making it easier and faster for families and commuters to travel. Construction is scheduled to begin this summer.

Westside-Kelowna MLA Ben Stewart was joined by West Kelowna Mayor Doug Findlater and BC Transit chief operating officer and vice-president of operations Mike Davis to announce the start of construction and a series of open houses, which will be held over the next few days at locations throughout the Westside. Residents are encouraged to view artistic renderings of the new exchanges, maps of the RapidBus BC expansion and to offer their input on the design phase of the project.

The West Kelowna expansion includes construction of two new transit exchanges at Westbank Centre and Boucherie Mountain. This service will begin in summer 2014 and will connect to the existing RapidBus BC service between downtown and UBCO.

Once complete, the entire Kelowna RapidBus BC project will include six new or improved exchanges, four new stations, branded shelters and real-time passenger information displays. RapidBus BC ridership has grown almost 10 per cent between downtown Kelowna and UBCO since the service began in 2010.

The Kelowna RapidBus project will spur economic development in communities and improve transportation options for families. In total, the project will receive up to $46 million from federal, provincial and local partners.

The Government of Canada is contributing up to $10.9 million from the Building Canada Fund and another $6 million from the Gas Tax Fund. The government of British Columbia will provide $23.9 million, the City of Kelowna $5.2 million, and West Kelowna is contributing land.

Since 2006, the Government of Canada has made unprecedented investments in infrastructure. Between 2006 and 2014, British Columbia will receive more than $1.56 billion from the Gas Tax Fund to improve local infrastructure. The Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) administers the Gas Tax Fund in British Columbia, in collaboration with Canada and British Columbia.

Canada's Economic Action Plan 2013 is delivering a new Building Canada Plan to build roads, bridges, subways, commuter rail, and other public infrastructure in cooperation with provinces, territories, and municipalities. The new Building Canada Plan, combined with other federal infrastructure investments, supports Canada's infrastructure advantage, a key enabler of economic growth and job creation.

In September 2012, the B.C. government released its response to the Independent BC Transit Review. BC Transit is committed to greater consultation and collaboration with its local government partners.

Quotes:

Westside-Kelowna MLA Ben Stewart -

"RapidBus is revolutionizing transit in the Okanagan. Ridership has grown nearly ten per cent since service began in 2010, and once the whole project is complete, RapidBus will provide 30 kilometers of service between West Kelowna and UBCO."

"Bringing RapidBus to West Kelowna will improve travel time with fast, direct service, and it will get people out of their cars, which will help reduce traffic congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions."

District of West Kelowna Mayor Doug Findlater -

"RapidBus is a key part of our Westbank Centre Revitalization Strategy; we are so pleased to see this move ahead. We welcome the opportunity for public input and encourage citizens to attend the upcoming open houses in West Kelowna."

BC Transit vice president and chief operating officer Mike Davis -

"Kelowna's RapidBus is a project BC Transit takes great pride in. With regional support, RapidBus is growing and our customers will benefit from a more efficient and effective transit system."

Open House Schedule:

Visit the Transit Future Bus at any of the following locations and times:

Tuesday, April 2
|Mount Boucherie Senior Secondary
2751 Cameron Rd.
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 3
Save-on Foods
2475 Dobbin Rd.
9 a.m. - 12 noon

Wednesday, April 3
Westbank Centre
3717 Elliott Rd.
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 3
Mount Boucherie Community Complex
2760 Cameron Rd.
5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 4
Okanagan Lake Shopping Centre
Highway 97 at Westside Rd.
10 a.m. - 12 noon

Thursday, April 4
Boucherie Mountain
Super 8 Hotel at Westgate Rd.
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Learn more:

For additional information about investments in infrastructure and to stay up-to-date with web feeds, visit: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/

For information about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit: www.actionplan.gc.ca

For information on the government of British Columbia, visit: http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/Transit_Plan

For information on BC Transit, visit: http://www.bctransit.com/transitfuture/kelrapidbus_latestupdates.cfm

For information on the District of West Kelowna, visit: http://www.districtofwestkelowna.ca/index.aspx?page=604

For information on Kelowna RapidBus, visit: http://www.kelownarapidbus.ca

Media Contacts:

Kate Trotter
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 356-8241

Geneviève Sicard
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
613 991-0700

Kirsten Jones
District of West Kelowna
778 797-2253

Meribeth Burton
BC Transit
250 507-8145

]]> Second Phase of Massey Tunnel consultation ends April 2 tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5649 2013-03-30T16:30:00Z 2013-03-30T21:54:15Z British Columbians have until Tuesday, April 2 to provide input for the second phase of public consultation for the George Massey Tunnel Replacement Project. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANCOUVER - British Columbians have until Tuesday, April 2 to provide input for the second phase of public consultation for the George Massey Tunnel Replacement Project.

Phase 2 consultation seeks input on a draft project scope and goals, evaluation criteria and five potential replacement scenarios, all of which have been developed in consideration of Phase 1 input and ongoing technical analysis.

The public's input will help determine which scenarios the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure takes forward for additional technical analysis. A series of three public open houses have concluded, but users of the Massey Tunnel can still provide input through the George Massey Tunnel Replacement Project website at: www.masseytunnel.ca

The project website contains all consultation materials, including display boards, a discussion guide and a feedback form that you can use to have your say. This input will help determine the most appropriate solution to ensure Highway 99 continues to serve as a key component of the provincial transportation network.

Following Phase 2 consultation, the ministry will prepare a Consultation Summary Report and continue with detailed technical analysis in preparation for future consultation.

The existing four-lane George Massey Tunnel opened in 1959 and now carries over 80,000 vehicles each day.

The tunnel has 10 to 15 years of useful life remaining before major components will need to be replaced, so it's important to begin planning now to ensure a solution will be in place when needed.

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241


]]> Government promotes sustainable transit for college, university students tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5648 2013-03-30T16:15:00Z 2013-04-02T23:26:35Z The government of British Columbia is extending U-Pass BC to encourage students at public colleges and universities in Metro Vancouver to use transit. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANCOUVER - The government of British Columbia is extending U-Pass BC to encourage students at public colleges and universities in Metro Vancouver to use transit.

Government has committed $34.5 million to help TransLink offset the cost of the U-Pass BC program over the next three years. U-Pass BC provides highly discounted transit passes to 140,000 students attending public post-secondary schools. The program is a partnership of the provincial government, TransLink, students and their schools.

The current U-Pass BC program will expire March 31, 2013. Following required referenda, students at 10 schools have voted "yes" to continuing the program for an additional three years.

Starting May 2013, the monthly U-Pass rate will be $35. Students also voted to allow the program price to increase to $36.75 per month beginning May 1, 2014, and $38 per month beginning May 1, 2015. The renewed U-Pass BC program can save students between $56 and $135 every month over the next three years.

U-Pass BC provides students in Metro Vancouver with unlimited access to the transit network and encourages the use of sustainable travel options.

B.C. is the only province in Canada that provides a universal transit program to students attending public post-secondary schools.

Quotes:

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak -

"B.C. is the only province in the country to support this kind of program, and I am committed to providing funds for another three years to help students lower their cost of post-secondary education by encouraging them to take transit."

TransLink CEO Ian Jarvis -

"U-Pass BC provides tremendous value for our students. It provides access to our transit network which includes bus, SeaBus and SkyTrain services within Metro Vancouver, as well as discounts on West Coast Express. In doing so, we are encouraging students to adopt transit as an effective choice subsequent to graduation."

Douglas College vice-president of educational services Blaine Jensen -

"Students love their U-Pass BC and Post-Secondary Educational Institutions benefit by having a greener alternative to parking lots and more cars on campus. In the next year, U-Pass BC will be integrated with TransLink's Compass Card and provide even better value to students as well as administrative relief to institutions. Collaboration has been the key!"

University of British Columbia Alma Mater Society vice-president external affairs Tanner Bokor -

"The renewal of the U-Pass BC program marks a commitment by TransLink, the ministry, and students to provide all post-secondary institutions across Metro Vancouver with access to a high quality, sustainable public transit system. Through the continuation of the program, we are reducing our carbon footprint and encouraging a future generation of commuters to use public transit. At the same time, the regional transit network needs a sustainable funding formula as well as new transit infrastructure to handle future rider demand and to drive our economy forward."

Kwantlen Student Association external affairs coordinator Arzo Ansary -

"The Kwantlen Student Association is extremely pleased at the combined efforts of student unions during this negotiation process. We are proud to see the continuation of a program as beneficial to students as U-Pass BC has proved to be. The continuation of affordable and accessible transit services ensures increased ridership, which is a goal we as student leaders strive for."

Douglas College Students' Union external affairs coordinator Jillian Griffin -

"U-Pass BC has become an integral part of getting an education because it encourages students to make sustainable transit choices while saving them money. Students' overwhelming support of continuing the U-Pass BC program into 2016 is a clear sign of the importance of the program."

Quick Facts:

In 2010, B.C. became the first province in Canada to offer an affordable, universal transit program to students at all publicly funded post-secondary institutions. Prior to 2010, only four schools in Metro Vancouver had access to U-Pass and prices varied between the schools. In addition, the cost of the program was unsustainable to TransLink.

Students at these schools will have access to U-Pass BC cards and reduced transit fares:

  • British Columbia Institute of Technology
  • Capilano University
  • Douglas College
  • Emily Carr University of Art and Design
  • Kwantlen Polytechnic University
  • Langara College
  • Nicola Valley Institute of Technology - Burnaby Campus
  • Simon Fraser University
  • University of British Columbia
  • Vancouver Community College

Outside of Metro Vancouver, BC Transit also offers U-Pass BC in partnership with local governments.

Learn More:

www.translink.ca/u-pass

Media Contacts:

Kate Trotter
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 356-8241

TransLink
604 803-3199

Tiffany Kalanj
Executive Director
Students' Union of Vancouver Community College
604 916-7376


]]> Major investments to improve Highway 97 at South Taylor Hill tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5643 2013-03-28T23:45:00Z 2013-03-29T02:08:31Z The governments of Canada and British Columbia announced a funding commitment of $26 million to expand and upgrade Highway 97 at South Taylor Hill, just south of Taylor, between Fort St. John and Dawson Creek. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ FORT ST. JOHN - The governments of Canada and British Columbia announced a funding commitment today of $26 million to expand and upgrade Highway 97 at South Taylor Hill, just south of Taylor, between Fort St. John and Dawson Creek.

This project will widen Highway 97 at the base of South Taylor Hill to four lanes, south from Taylor Bridge for two kilometres. Improvements will be made to the intersections of Big Bam and Johnson Roads, and a larger truck chain-up area will be built to ensure truckers have a safe place to put on chains in the winter months. The slopes above the highway will also be contoured to enhance slope stability.

These improvements will make travel on Highway 97 at South Taylor Hill safer for residents and tourists and more efficient for industrial traffic serving the natural gas, forestry and agricultural sectors in the region.

"These improvements to the South Taylor Hill section of the Alaska Highway have been long-awaited and will greatly improve road safety for residents and travellers alike," said Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament for Prince George - Peace River, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. "Our government is proud to provide significant funding for this project as we focus on creating jobs, promoting growth and building strong, prosperous communities across Canada."

The Government of Canada is setting aside up to $10.75 million through the Building Canada Fund-Major Infrastructure Component for this project, with the Province of British Columbia providing $15.25 million, for a total project cost of $26 million.

Federal funding under the Major Infrastructure Component is conditional upon the completion of a review of the project, the completion of environmental assessments and the signing of a contribution agreement.

The project will go to tender in Fall 2013, with construction starting in Spring 2014 and scheduled for completion by Fall 2015. This work will build on the $800 million invested in highway improvements in the Peace Region since 2001.

"Everyone who lives in and travels through the Peace Region understands the importance of the Highway 97 corridor to our livelihoods," said Peace River South MLA Blair Lekstrom, on behalf of Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak. "Safety on B.C. highways is a priority, and this expansion and upgrade at South Taylor Hill will significantly increase safety for local traffic, for tourists and for commercial traffic supporting B.C.'s natural gas, forestry and agricultural sectors."

Canada's Economic Action Plan 2013 is delivering a new Building Canada Plan to build roads, bridges, subways, commuter rail, and other public infrastructure in co-operation with provinces, territories, and municipalities. Thanks to the Government of Canada's leadership and our strong economic and financial fundamentals, the Canadian economy has recovered from the global recession better than most other industrialized countries. Canada has been a leader among G-7 countries throughout the recovery with more than 950,000 net new jobs created since July 2009. The new Building Canada Plan, combined with other federal infrastructure investments, supports Canada's infrastructure advantage, a key enabler of economic growth and job creation.

Learn More:

For additional information about federal investments in infrastructure and to stay up-to-date with web feeds, visit: www.infrastructure.gc.ca

To find out what the Government of Canada is doing to promote jobs, growth and prosperity, visit: www.actionplan.gc.ca

Learn more about transportation projects happening throughout B.C. at: www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/.

Media Contacts:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Geneviève Sicard
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure, Communities, Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
613 991-0700

Infrastructure Canada
613 960-9251
Toll free: 1 877 250-7154

NEWS RELEASE

D'IMPORTANTS INVESTISSEMENTS POUR AMÉLIORER LA ROUTE 97 À SOUTH TAYLOR HILL

FORT ST. JOHN - Les gouvernements du Canada et de la Colombie-Britannique ont annoncé aujourd'hui un engagement financier de 26 millions de dollars pour agrandir et moderniser la route 97 à South Taylor Hill, juste au sud de Taylor, entre Fort St. John et Dawson Creek.

Le projet permettra d'élargir la route 97 sur la partie inférieure de South Taylor Hill, qui comportera désormais quatre voies, au sud du pont Taylor sur une distance de deux kilomètres. Des améliorations seront apportées aux intersections des chemins Big Bam et Johnson, et une aire plus vaste sera aménagée afin que l'endroit pour poser des chaînes sur les pneus des camions en hiver soit sécuritaire. Les pentes surplombant la route seront également redessinées afin d'améliorer la stabilité des pentes.

Ces améliorations rendront les déplacements plus sécuritaires sur la route 97 à South Taylor Hill pour les résidants et pour les touristes, en plus d'accroître l'efficacité des déplacements des véhicules industriels desservant les secteurs du gaz naturel, de l'exploitation forestière et de l'agriculture dans la région.

" On attend depuis longtemps ces améliorations à la partie de South Taylor Hill de la route de l'Alaska, qui amélioreront considérablement la sécurité des résidants et des visiteurs, a déclaré Bob Zimmer, député de Prince George-Peace River, au nom de l'honorable Denis Lebel, ministre des Transports, de l'Infrastructure et des Collectivités. " Notre gouvernement est fier d'offrir un financement considérable dans le cadre de ce projet, alors que nous mettons l'accent sur la création d'emplois, la promotion de la croissance et l'édification de collectivités fortes et prospères, partout au Canada. "

Le gouvernement du Canada réserve jusqu'à 10,75 millions de dollars aux termes du volet Grandes infrastructures du Fonds Chantiers Canada pour ce projet, et la Province de la Colombie-Britannique verse une contribution de 15,25 millions de dollars, pour des coûts totaux de 26 millions de dollars dans le cadre du projet.

Le financement fédéral versé aux termes du volet Grandes infrastructures est conditionnel à l'examen du projet, aux évaluations environnementales et à la signature d'une entente de contribution.

Le projet fera l'objet d'un appel d'offres au cours de l'automne 2013, et les travaux de construction commenceront au printemps 2014 et devraient prendre fin d'ici l'automne 2015. Ces travaux s'appuieront sur les 800 millions de dollars investis dans les améliorations routières dans la région de la rivière de la Paix depuis 2001.

" Tous les résidants et les visiteurs de la région de la rivière Peace comprennent l'importance du corridor de la route 97 pour notre qualité de vie, a souligné Blair Lekstrom, député provincial de Peace River Sud, au nom de Mary Polak, ministre des Transports et de l'Infrastructure. La sécurité est prioritaire sur les routes de la Colombie-Britannique, et ces travaux d'agrandissement et de modernisation de South Taylor Hill permettront d'accroître considérablement la sécurité pour les automobilistes de la région, pour les touristes et pour les véhicules commerciaux desservant les secteurs du gaz naturel, de l'exploitation forestière et de l'agriculture de la province. "

Le Plan d'action économique de 2013 met en place un nouveau plan Chantiers Canada pour construire des routes, des ponts, des métros, des trains de banlieue et d'autres infrastructures publiques en collaboration avec les provinces, les territoires et les municipalités. Grâce au leadership du gouvernement du Canada ainsi qu'aux solides assises économiques et financières du pays, l'économie canadienne s'est mieux rétablie de la récession mondiale que la plupart des autres pays industrialisés. Le Canada a fait figure de chef de file parmi les pays du G-7 pendant la période de rétablissement économique grâce à la création de plus de 950 000 nouveaux emplois nets depuis juillet 2009. Le nouveau plan Chantiers Canada, combiné à d'autres investissements fédéraux dans les infrastructures, permet de maintenir l'avantage du Canada en matière d'infrastructures, lequel constitue un catalyseur clé de la croissance économique et de la création d'emplois.

Pour en savoir plus sur les investissements fédéraux dans les infrastructures et pour suivre nos fils Web, rendez-vous à www.infrastructure.gc.ca. Pour découvrir ce que fait le gouvernement du Canada pour promouvoir les emplois, la croissance et la prospérité, visitez le site www.plandaction.gc.ca.

Pour en savoir plus sur les projets de transport qui ont lieu en Colombie-Britannique, rendez-vous à www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/.

Consultez le site Web de la province de la Colombie-Britannique à www.gov.bc.ca/connect.

Pour obtenir des renseignements additionnels, communiquez avec :

Geneviève Sicard
Cabinet du ministre des Transports, de l'Infrastructure et des Collectivités, ministre de l'Agence de développement économique du Canada pour les régions du Québec, et ministre des affaires intergouvernementales.
613 991-0700

Kate Trotter
Communications du gouvernement et Engagement du public
Ministère des Transports et de l'Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Infrastructure Canada
613 960-9251
Sans frais : 1 877 250-7154

]]> Highway 97 improvements to bring better road conditions for Kelowna drivers tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5638 2013-03-28T21:15:00Z 2013-03-28T22:29:41Z The governments of Canada and British Columbia announced new funding for the expansion and upgrade of over 4.5 kilometres of Highway 97 through Kelowna. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ (disponible en français en bas de page)

KELOWNA - The governments of Canada and British Columbia announced new funding today for the expansion and upgrade of over 4.5 kilometres of Highway 97 through Kelowna.

This project will widen Highway 97 between Highway 33 and Edwards Road from four to six lanes and upgrade intersections along the same stretch. Widening the highway and reconstructing congested intersections will increase capacity, make travel safer and better connect the downtown core with the University of British Columbia Okanagan campus.

These improvements will also benefit commuters to areas north of downtown including the Quail Ridge residential area, the Kelowna Airport and the Industrial Park.

"Investments in Canada's public infrastructure create jobs, economic growth and provide a high quality of life for families in every city and community across the country," said Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna - Lake Country, on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. "Highway 97 upgrades in Kelowna will help residents and visitors reach their destinations safely and more efficiently for years to come."

"This $50-million project will build on the improvements done to Highway 97 through Kelowna over the last number of years," said Kelowna-Lake Country MLA Norm Letnick, on behalf of Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak. "This work will improve traffic flow at the northern entrance to the city, and make for more efficient and safer connections to UBCO, Quail Ridge, Rutland, Glenmore, Ellison, Lake Country and beyond for motorists, cyclists and transit users."

The Government of Canada is setting aside up to $18 million through the Building Canada Fund - Major Infrastructure Component for this project, with the Province of British Columbia providing $32.2 million, for a total project cost of $50.2 million. Federal funding is conditional on the project meeting all of the requirements under the Building Canada Fund and the signing of a contribution agreement with the province.

Preliminary work is underway. Construction is expected to begin in 2014 and should be completed by fall 2016. This work will build on the $1.3 billion invested in highway improvements in the Thompson-Okanagan since 2001.

Canada's Economic Action Plan 2013 is delivering a new Building Canada Plan to build roads, bridges, subways, commuter rail, and other public infrastructure in cooperation with provinces, territories, and municipalities. Thanks to the Government of Canada's leadership and our strong economic and financial fundamentals, the Canadian economy has recovered from the global recession better than most other industrialized countries.

Canada has been a leader among G-7 countries throughout the recovery with more than 950,000 net new jobs created since July 2009. The new Building Canada Plan, combined with other federal infrastructure investments, supports Canada's infrastructure advantage, a key enabler of economic growth and job creation.

For additional information about federal investments in infrastructure and to stay up-to-date with web feeds, visit: www.infrastructure.gc.ca

To find out what the Government of Canada is doing to promote jobs, growth and prosperity, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca

Learn more about transportation projects happening throughout B.C. at: www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/

For more information, contact:

Geneviève Sicard
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities
613 991-0700

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Infrastructure Canada
613 960-9251
Toll free: 1 877 250-7154

NEWS RELEASE / COMMUNIQUÉ

Des améliorations apportées à la route 97 favoriseront les conditions routières des automobilistes de Kelowna

KELOWNA - Aujourd'hui, les gouvernements du Canada et de la Colombie-Britannique ont annoncé un nouveau financement visant des travaux d'agrandissement et d'amélioration de la route 97, sur une distance de 4,5 kilomètres, dans Kelowna.

Ce projet permettra d'élargir la route 97, entre la route 33 et le chemin Edwards, de quatre à six voies et d'améliorer les intersections de cette même section. Les travaux d'élargissement de la route et de réfection des intersections congestionnées permettront d'accroître la capacité, de rendre les déplacements plus sécuritaires, et de faciliter le trajet entre le centre-ville et le campus Okanagan de l'Université de la Colombie-Britannique.

Ces améliorations profiteront également aux personnes qui effectuent la navette vers les zones se situant au nord du centre-ville, y compris le secteur résidentiel de Quail Ridge, l'aéroport de Kelowna et le parc industriel.

" Les investissements dans les infrastructures publiques canadiennes créent des emplois, favorisent la croissance économique et offrent une meilleure qualité de vie pour les familles dans chaque ville et chaque collectivité du Canada, a déclaré Ron Cannan, député de Kelowna - Lake Country, au nom de l'honorable Denis Lebel, ministre des Transports, de l'Infrastructure et des Collectivités. " Les améliorations de la route 97 à Kelowna aideront les résidants et les visiteurs à se déplacer de manière sécuritaire et avec une efficacité accrue pour les années à venir. "

" Ce projet de 50 millions de dollars s'appuiera sur les améliorations qui ont été apportées à la route 97 à Kelowna au cours de ces dernières années, a indiqué Norm Letnick, député de Kelowna-Lake Country, au nom de Mary Polak, ministre des Transports et de l'Infrastructure. Ces travaux permettront d'améliorer la circulation routière à l'entrée nord de la ville, en plus d'accroître la sécurité et l'efficacité des déplacements vers le campus Okanagan de l'Université de la Colombie-Britannique, Quail Ridge, Rutland, Glenmore, Ellison, Lake Country et bien au-delà pour les automobilistes, les cyclistes et les usagers du transport en commun. "

Le gouvernement du Canada réserve pour ce projet jusqu'à 18 millions de dollars aux termes du volet Grandes infrastructures du Fonds Chantiers Canada, alors que la Province de la Colombie-Britannique verse une contribution de 32,2 millions de dollars, pour des coûts totaux de projet de 50,2 millions de dollars. Le financement fédéral est conditionnel au respect, dans le cadre du projet, de toutes les exigences aux termes du Fonds Chantiers Canada, ainsi qu'à la signature d'une entente de contribution avec la Province.

Les travaux préliminaires sont présentement en cours. La construction devrait débuter en 2014 et prendre fin d'ici l'automne 2016. Les travaux s'appuieront sur 1,3 milliard de dollars investi depuis 2001 dans l'amélioration de la route Thompson-Okanagan.

Le Plan d'action économique de 2013 met en place un nouveau plan Chantiers Canada pour construire des routes, des ponts, des métros, des trains de banlieue et d'autres infrastructures publiques en collaboration avec les provinces, les territoires et les municipalités. Grâce au leadership du gouvernement du Canada ainsi qu'aux solides assises économiques et financières du pays, l'économie canadienne s'est mieux rétablie de la récession mondiale que la plupart des autres pays industrialisés. Le Canada a fait figure de chef de file parmi les pays du G-7 pendant la période de rétablissement économique grâce à la création de plus de 950 000 nouveaux emplois nets depuis juillet 2009. Le nouveau plan Chantiers Canada, combiné à d'autres investissements fédéraux dans les infrastructures, permet de maintenir l'avantage du Canada en matière d'infrastructures, lequel constitue un catalyseur clé de la croissance économique et de la création d'emplois.

Pour en savoir plus sur les investissements fédéraux dans les infrastructures et pour suivre nos fils Web, rendez-vous à www.infrastructure.gc.ca. Pour découvrir ce que fait le gouvernement pour promouvoir les emplois, la croissance et la prospérité, visitez le site www.plandaction.gc.ca.

Pour en savoir plus sur les projets de transport qui ont lieu en Colombie-Britannique, rendez-vous à www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/.

Pour obtenir des renseignements additionnels, communiquez avec:

Geneviève Sicard
Cabinet du ministre des Transports, de l'Infrastructure et des Collectivités
613 991-0700

Kate Trotter
Communications du gouvernement et Engagement du public
Ministère des Transports et de l'Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Sans frais : 1 877 250-7154


]]> Highway 11 upgrade benefits border and commercial traffic tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5636 2013-03-28T20:15:00Z 2013-03-28T20:50:03Z A major upgrade to Highway 11 south of Highway 1 will relieve congestion and support cross-border travel and trade, while improving safety along this important road and rail corridor. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ (disponible en français en bas de page)

ABBOTSFORD - A major upgrade to Highway 11 south of Highway 1 will relieve congestion and support cross-border travel and trade, while improving safety along this important road and rail corridor.

The NEXUS lane to the U.S. border will be extended 1.8 kilometres to improve the flow of traffic to the border for families and commercial drivers. As part of these improvements, a two-lane overpass over the Southern Rail and CP Rail lines will be constructed on Vye Road to improve safety and reduce congestion at the existing crossing. A new crossing of both rail lines will be built along McConnell Road, connecting Riverside Road to Highway 11.

The $25-million project is being jointly funded by the Government of Canada, the Province of B.C. and the City of Abbotsford.

This project will improve access to local commercial developments between Highway 11 and Riverside Road, and provide an alternate route along the Vye Road/8th Avenue corridor, facilitating access to both the Aldergrove and Huntington border crossings.

The Government of Canada is setting aside up to $8.33 million through the Building Canada Fund - Major Infrastructure Component for this project, with the Province of British Columbia and the City of Abbotsford also contributing $8.33 million each.

Federal funding under the Major Infrastructure Component is conditional upon the completion of a review of the project, the completion of environmental assessments and the signing of a contribution agreement.

The project is in the preliminary engineering phase and is expected to go to construction in 2014, with completion in the fall of 2016.

Since 2006, the Government of Canada has made unprecedented investments in public infrastructure. Through the Gas Tax Fund alone, the government has invested over $10 billion in transfers for local infrastructure priorities. Making this fund permanent at $2 billion annually is part of Canada's Economic Action Plan - a plan to help create good jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity. Between 2006 and 2014, the Province of British Columbia will receive more than $1.56 billion from the Gas Tax Fund to direct towards its local infrastructure priorities.

Quotes:

The Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia Pacific Gateway, the Honourable Ed Fast -

"Safe, modern and efficient highways and local roads are essential to ensuring the quality of life of local residents, transporting goods to market and encouraging visitors to our communities. By investing in this important project, the Government of Canada is creating jobs and improving the quality of life in Abbotsford and in communities across Canada."

Abbotsford-West MLA Mike de Jong on behalf of Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak -

"This work will help improve safety and access to commercial interests within the area and make for more efficient travel along Highway 11. The increased traffic numbers clearly indicate that this project is much needed, and this work will be a valuable addition to our local transportation infrastructure."

City of Abbotsford Mayor Bruce Banman -

"As the community of Abbotsford and the entire Fraser Valley region have grown in recent decades, we've seen this vital transportation corridor become more and more congested, which hampers our local economy. This long-term solution is going to bring major improvements in traffic flow, safety, and in traveling ease, saving both time and money."

Learn More:

For additional information about federal investments in infrastructure and to stay up-to-date with web feeds, visit: www.infrastructure.gc.ca

To find out what the Government of Canada is doing to promote jobs, growth and prosperity, visit: www.actionplan.gc.ca

Learn more about transportation projects happening throughout B.C. at: www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/

Media Contacts:

Kate Trotter
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Geneviève Sicard
Office of the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure, Communities, Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs
613 991-0700

Infrastructure Canada
613 960-9251
Toll free: 1 877 250-7154

NEWS RELEASE COMMUNIQUÉ

Les améliorations de la route 11 faciliteront la circulation commerciale et aux frontières

ABBOTSFORD - D'importants travaux d'amélioration de la route 11, au sud de la route 1, permettront de réduire la congestion et de faciliter les déplacements et le commerce transfrontaliers, tout en améliorant la sécurité le long de cet important corridor routier et ferroviaire.

La voie NEXUS menant à la frontière américaine sera prolongée de 1,8 kilomètre afin d'améliorer la circulation vers la frontière pour les familles et les véhicules commerciaux. Dans le cadre de ces améliorations, un passage supérieur à deux voies, au-dessus des voies ferrées de Southern Rail et du CP, sera aménagé sur le chemin Vye pour améliorer la sécurité et pour réduire la congestion routière à l'intersection existante. Une nouvelle voie d'accès permettant de traverser les deux chemins de fer sera construite le long du chemin McConnell, afin de relier le chemin Riverside et la route 11.

Le projet de 25 millions de dollars est financé conjointement par le gouvernement du Canada, la province de la Colombie-Britannique et la Ville d'Abbotsford.

Ce projet permettra d'améliorer l'accès aux développements commerciaux locaux situés entre la route 11 et le chemin Riverside, en plus d'offrir une autre option de trajet aux automobilistes le long du corridor du chemin Vye et de la 8e Avenue, ce qui facilitera l'accès aux passages frontaliers à Aldergrove et à Huntington.

Le gouvernement du Canada réserve au maximum 8,33 millions de dollars aux termes du volet Grandes infrastructures du Fonds Chantiers Canada pour ce projet, alors que la province de la Colombie-Britannique et la Ville d'Abbotsford versent chacune une contribution de 8,33 millions de dollars.

Le financement fédéral versé aux termes du volet Grandes infrastructures est conditionnel à l'examen du projet, aux évaluations environnementales et à la signature d'une entente de contribution.

Le projet en est à l'étape préliminaire d'ingénierie, et les travaux de construction devraient commencer en 2014 et se terminer au cours de l'automne 2016.

Depuis 2006, le gouvernement du Canada a fait des investissements sans précédent dans les infrastructures publiques. Uniquement aux termes du Fonds de la taxe sur l'essence, le gouvernement a investi plus de 10 milliards de dollars en transferts pour les priorités locales en matière d'infrastructure. On a fait de ce fonds une mesure permanente, à raison de 2 milliards de dollars par année, dans le cadre du Plan d'action économique du Canada - un plan visant à créer de bons emplois, à soutenir la croissance économique et à favoriser la croissance à long terme. Entre 2006 et 2014, la province de la Colombie-Britannique recevra plus de 1,56 milliard de dollars du Fonds de la taxe sur l'essence pour ses priorités locales en matière d'infrastructure.

Citations:

Le ministre du Commerce international et ministre de la porte d'entrée de l'Asie-Pacifique, l'honorable Ed Fast:

"Les autoroutes et les routes locales sécuritaires, modernes et efficaces sont essentielles pour assurer la qualité de vie des résidants, pour faciliter le transport des biens vers les marchés et pour encourager les gens à visiter nos collectivités. En investissant dans cet important projet, le gouvernement du Canada crée des emplois et améliore la qualité de vie à Abbotsford et dans les collectivités du Canada."

Le député provincial d'Abbotsford-Ouest, Mike de Jong, au nom de la ministre des Transports et de l'Infrastructure, Mary Polak:

"Ces travaux permettront d'améliorer la sécurité et l'accessibilité des zones commerciales du secteur, en plus de favoriser l'efficacité des déplacements sur la route 11. L'augmentation du nombre de véhicules sur nos routes indique clairement que ce projet est nécessaire, et les résultats de ces travaux seront un précieux ajout à nos infrastructures locales des transports."

Le maire de la Ville d'Abbotsford, Bruce Banman:

"Comme la collectivité d'Abbotsford et l'ensemble de la vallée du Fraser ont connu une croissance importante au cours des dernières décennies, nous avons constaté la congestion de plus en plus marquée de ce corridor de transport essentiel, ce qui nuit à l'économie locale. Cette solution à long terme améliorera considérablement la circulation, la sécurité et l'efficacité des déplacements, ce qui nous permettra d'économiser temps et argent."

Pour en savoir plus sur les investissements fédéraux dans les infrastructures et pour suivre nos fils Web, visitez le site www.infrastructure.gc.ca. Pour découvrir ce que le gouvernement du Canada fait pour promouvoir l'emploi, la croissance et la prospérité, rendez-vous à: www.plandaction.gc.ca

Pour en savoir plus sur les projets de transport en Colombie-Britannique, rendez-vous à: www.th.gov.bc.ca/tranprojectsbc/

Visitez le site de la province de la Colombie-Britannique à www.gov.bc.ca/connect

Pour en savoir plus:

Geneviève Sicard
Cabinet du ministre des Transports, de l'Infrastructure et des Collectivités, ministre de l'Agence de développement économique du Canada pour les régions du Québec, et ministre des Affaires intergouvernementales
613 991-0700

Kate Trotter
Agente des Affaires publiques
Ministère des Transports et de l'Infrastructure
250 356-8241

Infrastructure Canada
613 960-9251
Sans frais : 1 877 250-7154


]]> Government accepts auditor general's recommendations on Evergreen Line tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5624 2013-03-28T17:30:00Z 2013-03-28T17:40:03Z The government of British Columbia accepts the recommendations released by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) about the procurement process and financial guidelines of the Evergreen Line rapid transit project. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - The government of British Columbia accepts the recommendations released today by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) about the procurement process and financial guidelines of the Evergreen Line rapid transit project, and thanks his office for the work they have done.

The audit covered three main themes and included seven recommendations to strengthen some planning processes for major projects and to improve performance measurement frameworks and administrative reporting. Government is taking steps to implement the recommendations immediately.

The audit concludes that there is an extensive body of work that supports the decision to build the Evergreen Line using SkyTrain technology. The OAG report recognizes that the procurement choice of a Design Build Finance model was the best choice for the project.

The report also recognizes that stakeholder consultation has been reflected and that a management framework was in place for the successful procurement of the project. In addition, the audit recognizes that government's analysis of procurement costs, benefits and risks have been rigorously assessed and verified.

Quote:

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak -

"The Evergreen Line has been studied and reviewed extensively for years by multiple levels of government and transit experts. We are confident that the Evergreen Line can achieve ridership projections as we have seen with the popularity of the Millennium Line and Canada Line where ridership has met or exceeded projections."

Quick Facts:

  • The Evergreen Line is a $1.43-billion project and major construction is underway.
  • Opening in summer 2016, it will link the communities of Port Moody and Coquitlam with the existing Millennium Line SkyTrain in Metro Vancouver.
  • Once complete Metro Vancouver will have the longest rapid transit network in Canada.

Learn More:

www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 356-8241


]]> Promise made, promise kept: Evergreen Line construction on track tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5567 2013-03-23T18:15:00Z 2013-04-04T16:18:26Z The Government of Canada, the government of British Columbia and TransLink announced the construction schedule for the next 12 months and the final station names for the Evergreen Line, the newest rapid transit project in Metro Vancouver opening in summer 2016. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ (disponible en français en bas de page)

COQUITLAM - Today the Government of Canada, the government of British Columbia and TransLink announced the construction schedule for the next 12 months and the final station names for the Evergreen Line, the newest rapid transit project in Metro Vancouver opening in summer 2016.

"Our government is proud to invest in infrastructure projects such as this that create jobs and economic growth, and improve public transit for Canadians," said the Honourable James Moore, Minister Responsible for British Columbia and Member of Parliament for Port Moody - Westwood - Port Coquitlam. "Once complete, the Evergreen Line will provide an essential transit link for Metro Vancouver residents, ease traffic congestion and improve the quality of life for residents of the Tri-Cities and the Lower Mainland."

A key part of the Evergreen Line is keeping residents, commuters, businesses and local governments informed about changes to traffic and other activities that may affect them. With major construction underway, staff continues to meet regularly with residents and other groups.

"Our government is delivering on our commitment to create 8,000 jobs, boost development opportunities, and transportation options for families and communities," said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak. "We want the construction of the Evergreen Line project to be a positive experience for the communities. That's why we are committed to responding quickly and providing valuable information to residents, commuters and businesses as the project moves forward."

Today, TransLink also announced the final station names, following consultation with local governments and community groups.

"The Evergreen Line SkyTrain extension is a much needed link in the region's transportation network and will be part of our communities for generations," said TransLink's chief executive officer Ian Jarvis. "That's why we worked with Port Moody, Coquitlam and Douglas College to set the final station names that reflect the historical and future significance of the local neighbourhoods being served."

The final station names are:

  • Lougheed Town Centre Station
  • Burquitlam Station
  • Moody Centre Station
  • Inlet Centre Station
  • Coquitlam Central Station
  • Lincoln Station
  • Lafarge Lake-Douglas Station

Evergreen Line route with new station names

The Evergreen Line will link neighbourhoods in Burnaby, Port Moody and Coquitlam and be fully integrated into the existing system, connecting directly onto the Millennium Line at Lougheed Station.

Funding for the Evergreen Line is a partnership between the Government of Canada, the government of British Columbia and TransLink. The estimated project cost is $1.43 billion, with the Government of Canada contributing up to $424 million ($350 million from the Building Canada Fund, $67 million from the Public Transit Capital Trust Fund, and $7 million from the P3 Fund), the government of B.C. contributing $586 million, and other partners contributing $21 million. TransLink is contributing the remaining $400 million and will operate the system when it opens.

Traffic information:

24/7 traffic information: 604 927-2080 and www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca

Learn More:

The Evergreen Line: www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca

Information in other languages available at www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca/languages.htm

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan: www.bcjobsplan.ca

Twitter: @TranBC #EvergreenlineBC

Facebook: www.facebook.com/evergreenline

Contacts:

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 882-9529

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613 993-0055

Geneviève Sicard
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Denis Lebel
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, Ottawa
613 991-0700

Derek Zabel
TransLink
604 803-3199

BACKGROUNDER

Evergreen Line Construction

EGRT Construction was awarded the major contract to build the Evergreen Line. EGRT Construction will build the guideways, a two-kilometre tunnel, seven stations, power substations, train operating systems and parking facilities.

Construction activity is now underway in the north tunnel portal area in Port Moody and work will also begin in the coming months at several areas along the Evergreen route.

The construction schedule by location is:

North tunnel portal - Port Moody

Construction has begun in the north tunnel portal area to prepare for tunnel boring. Construction of the tunnel underneath the Barnet Highway will begin in spring 2013. This work will be done in stages by shifting Barnet Highway traffic west at View Street to keep all lanes open for drivers. The tunnel boring is scheduled to begin in March 2014. The two-kilometre bored tunnel begins at the north tunnel portal area in Port Moody and ends at the south tunnel portal, located on the west side of Clarke Road near Kemsley Avenue in Coquitlam.

Moody Centre Station - Port Moody

Demolition, utility work and changes to the park-and-ride and the bus loop are underway, and construction on the guideway will begin in summer 2013.

Lougheed Station - Burnaby

Moving the bus loops and pedestrian walkways will begin in spring 2013. Station renovations and guideway construction will start in summer 2013.

Burquitlam Station - Coquitlam

Guideway construction and utility relocation work will begin in spring 2013. Station construction is expected to begin in early 2014.

Inlet Centre Station - Port Moody

Utility relocations will start in spring 2013 followed by set up of construction staging areas for station and guideway construction.

Lafarge Lake - Douglas Station - Coquitlam

Road and ground improvements will start this summer followed by guideway construction. Station construction is expected to begin in fall 2013.

Coquitlam Central Station - Coquitlam

Changes to the existing bus loop will begin this summer. Station construction is expected to start this winter and guideway construction in early 2014.

Lincoln Station - Coquitlam

Utility work will begin this summer and station and guideway construction will begin in fall 2013.

Guideway construction in Coquitlam, Port Moody and Burnaby

Guideway construction will start in the Burquitlam area of Coquitlam in summer 2013 with the construction of the foundations and then guideway columns for the guideway near Clarke Road and Como Lake Avenue. It will then proceed south on North Road to Lougheed Town Centre Station.

In Port Moody, guideway construction will start this summer east of Barnet Highway (north of Vintner Street) and continue east towards Moody Centre Station. In early fall guideway work will start on the west side of Inlet Centre Station.

Preparation work is underway for guideway construction along the existing railway corridor through Port Moody and Coquitlam. This work includes tree removal, building access roads, grading and the installation of culverts and bridges to protect streams.

Elevated guideway construction in Coquitlam will begin in early 2014 at Coquitlam Central Station and move just north of Lincoln Station. Construction of the guideway foundation and columns will then move north next to Pinetree Way to Lafarge Lake-Douglas Station.

Contacts:

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Government Communications and Public Engagement
250 882-9529

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613 993-0055

Geneviève Sicard
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Denis Lebel
Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, Ottawa
613 991-0700

Derek Zabel
TransLink
604 803-3199

COMMUNIQUÉ

Promesse faite, promesse tenue : la construction de la ligne Evergreen va bon train

COQUITLAM - Le gouvernement du Canada, le gouvernement de la Colombie-Britannique et TransLink ont rendu publics aujourd'hui le calendrier de construction pour les 12 prochains mois de même que les noms définitifs des stations de la ligne Evergreen, le plus récent projet de transport en commun rapide du Grand Vancouver, qui verra le jour à l'été 2016.

" Notre gouvernement est fier d'investir dans des projets d'infrastructure qui créent des emplois, favorisent la croissance économique et améliorent le transport en commun pour les Canadiens ", a dit l'honorable James Moore, ministre responsable de la Colombie-Britannique et député fédéral de Port Moody - Westwood - Port Coquitlam. " Une fois terminée, la ligne Evergreen offrira un lien de transport en commun essentiel aux résidents du Grand Vancouver, réduira la congestion routière et améliorera la qualité de vie des résidents des Tri-Cities et du Lower Mainland. "

Un aspect clé du projet de la ligne Evergreen consiste à tenir les résidents, les usagers, les gens d'affaires et les administrations locales au courant des changements relatifs à la circulation et des autres activités qui pourraient les toucher. Étant donné que des travaux de construction majeurs sont en cours, des responsables du projet continueront de rencontrer régulièrement les résidents et d'autres groupes.

" Notre gouvernement respecte son engagement de créer 8 000 emplois, d'accroître les possibilités de développement et d'offrir aux familles et aux collectivités d'autres options de transport ", a dit la ministre des Transports et de l'Infrastructure de la Colombie-Britannique, Mme Mary Polak. " Nous voulons faire de la construction de la ligne Evergreen une expérience positive pour les collectivités. C'est pourquoi nous sommes déterminés à réagir rapidement et à fournir des renseignements précieux aux résidents, aux usagers et aux gens d'affaires tout au cours de l'évolution du projet. "

TransLink a rendu publics aujourd'hui les noms définitifs des stations, qui ont été déterminés à la suite de consultations menées auprès d'administrations locales et de groupes communautaires.

" Le prolongement de la ligne Evergreen du SkyTrain constituera un lien essentiel du réseau de transport de la région et profitera aux prochaines générations de nos collectivités ", a dit le président-directeur général de TransLink, M. Ian Jarvis. " C'est pourquoi nous avons consulté les municipalités de Port Moody et de Coquitlam, ainsi que le collège Douglas pour déterminer les noms définitifs des stations de façon à refléter l'importance historique et future des localités avoisinantes qui seront desservies. "

Les noms définitifs des stations sont :

  • Lougheed Town Centre
  • Burquitlam
  • Moody Centre
  • Inlet Centre
  • Coquitlam Central
  • Lincoln
  • Lafarge Lake-Douglas

La ligne Evergreen reliera les voisinages de Burnaby, de Port Moody et de Coquitlam et sera entièrement intégrée au réseau actuel, avec un lien direct à la ligne Millennium à la station Lougheed.

Le financement de la ligne Evergreen est le résultat d'un partenariat entre le gouvernement du Canada, le gouvernement de la Colombie-Britannique et TransLink. Le coût estimatif du projet est de 1,43 milliard de dollars. Le gouvernement du Canada y consacrera jusqu'à 424 millions de dollars (350 millions du Fonds Chantiers Canada, 67 millions de la Fiducie d'investissement pour les transports en commun et 7 millions du Fonds PPP), le gouvernement de la Colombie-Britannique, 586 millions, et les autres partenaires, 21 millions. TransLink absorbera le reste des coûts, soit 400 millions de dollars, et exploitera le réseau à sa mise en service.

Renseignements sur la circulation :

Renseignements disponibles 24 heures sur 24, 7 jours sur 7, au 604-927-2080 et au www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca (non disponible en français)

Pour en savoir davantage au sujet de ce projet :

Ligne Evergreen : www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca (non disponible en français)

Des renseignements sont disponibles dans d'autres langues au www.evergreenline.gov.bc.ca/languages.htm (non disponible en français)

Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan : www.bcjobsplan.ca (non disponible en français)

Twitter : @TranBC #EvergreenlineBC

Facebook : www.facebook.com/evergreenline

Renseignements :

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Ministère des Transports et de l'Infrastructure
Communications gouvernementales et Engagement public
250 882-9529

Geneviève Sicard
Attachée de presse
Cabinet de l'honorable Denis Lebel
Ministre des Transports, de l'Infrastructure et des Collectivités, Ottawa
613 991-0700

Relations avec les médias
Transports Canada, Ottawa
613 993-0055

Derek Zabel
TransLink
604 803-3199

DOCUMENT D'INFORMATION

Construction de la ligne Evergreen

EGRT Construction s'est vu attribuer le contrat principal pour la construction de la ligne Evergreen. EGRT Construction aménagera des voies de guidage, un tunnel de deux kilomètres, sept stations, des sous-stations d'alimentation électrique, des systèmes d'exploitation de trains et des installations de stationnement.

Des travaux de construction sont en cours dans le secteur du portail nord du tunnel à Port Moody. D'autres travaux débuteront au cours des prochains moins à divers endroits le long du tracé de la ligne Evergreen.

Voici le calendrier de construction selon les endroits :

Portail nord du tunnel - Port Moody

Des travaux de construction ont été entrepris dans le secteur du portail nord du tunnel en prévision du creusage du tunnel. L'aménagement du tunnel sous la route Barnet débutera au printemps 2013. Ces travaux seront effectués par étapes en détournant les véhicules circulant en direction ouest sur la route Barnet à la hauteur de la rue View afin de permettre aux conducteurs d'emprunter toutes les voies. Le creusage du tunnel débutera en mars 2014. Le tunnel de deux kilomètres commencera dans le secteur du portail nord du tunnel à Port Moody pour se terminer au portal sud du tunnel, situé du côté ouest de Clarke Road, près de l'avenue Kemsley à Coquitlam.

Station Moody Centre - Port Moody

Des travaux de démolition, des travaux liés aux services publics et des changements au parc de stationnement incitatif ainsi qu'à la zone de retournement des autobus sont en cours, et les travaux d'aménagement de la voie de guidage débuteront à l'été 2013.

Station Lougheed - Burnaby

Les travaux de déplacement des zones de retournement des autobus et des allées pour piétons débuteront au printemps 2013. Des rénovations à la station et l'aménagement de la voie de guidage commenceront à l'été 2013.

Station Burquitlam - Coquitlam

C'est au printemps 2013 que commenceront la construction de la voie de guidage et les travaux de déplacement de services publics. La construction de la station devrait commencer au début de 2014.

Station Inlet Centre - Port Moody

Le déplacement de services publics débutera au printemps 2013, après quoi suivra l'aménagement d'aires en vue de la construction de la station et d'une voie de guidage.

Station Lafarge Lake - Douglas - Coquitlam

Des travaux d'améliorations routières ainsi que des améliorations aux terrains débuteront cet été, après quoi une voie de guidage sera aménagée. La construction de la station devrait commencer à l'automne 2013.

Station Coquitlam Central - Coquitlam

Des modifications à la zone actuelle de retournement des autobus seront entreprises cet été. La construction de la station devrait débuter cet hiver, et l'aménagement de la voie de guidage, au début de 2014.

Station Lincoln - Coquitlam

Des travaux liés aux services publics commenceront cet été, tandis que la construction de la station et l'aménagement de la voie de guidage seront entrepris à l'automne 2013.

Aménagement de voies de guidage à Coquitlam, à Port Moody et à Burnaby

L'aménagement d'une voie de guidage dans le secteur Burquitlam à Coquitlam commencera à l'été 2013, avec la construction de fondations et de piliers pour la voie de guidage près de Clarke Road et de l'avenue Como Lake. Les travaux se poursuivront ensuite au sud sur North Road à la station Lougheed Town Centre.

À Port Moody, la construction de la voie de guidage débutera cet été, à l'est de la route Barnet (au nord de la rue Vintner) et se poursuivront vers l'est, en direction de la station Moody Centre. Au début de l'automne, les travaux d'aménagement d'une voie de guidage débuteront du côté ouest de la station Inlet Centre.

Des travaux préliminaires sont en cours en prévision de l'aménagement d'une voie de guidage le long du corridor ferroviaire existant qui passe par Port Moody et Coquitlam. Ces travaux comprennent l'enlèvement d'arbres, l'aménagement de voies d'accès, des travaux de nivelage, l'installation de ponceaux et la construction de ponts pour protéger des cours d'eau.

La construction d'une voie de guidage surélevée à Coquitlam débutera au début de 2014 à la station Coquitlam Central et se poursuivra tout juste au nord de la station Lincoln. La construction de fondations et de piliers pour la voie de guidage se poursuivra au nord, près de Pinetree Way et de la station Lafarge Lake-Douglas.

Renseignements :

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Ministère des Transports et de l'Infrastructure
Communications gouvernementales et Engagement public
250 882-9529

Geneviève Sicard
Attachée de presse
Cabinet de l'honorable Denis Lebel
Ministre des Transports, de l'Infrastructure et des Collectivités, Ottawa
613 991-0700

Relations avec les médias
Transports Canada, Ottawa
613 993-0055

Derek Zabel
TransLink
604 803-3199


]]> New highway maintenance contractor for Okanagan-Shuswap tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5536 2013-03-21T21:30:00Z 2013-03-21T21:34:28Z Effective March 29, 2013, provincial roads and bridges in Okanagan-Shuswap will be maintained by JPW Road and Bridge Inc. This service area encompasses the communities of Vernon, Armstrong, Spallumcheen, Falkland, Enderby, Salmon Arm and Sicamous. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VERNON - Effective March 29, 2013, provincial roads and bridges in Okanagan-Shuswap will be maintained by JPW Road and Bridge Inc. This service area encompasses the communities of Vernon, Armstrong, Spallumcheen, Falkland, Enderby, Salmon Arm and Sicamous.

JPW Road and Bridge Inc. has purchased the assets of Argo Road Maintenance in this service area. All of Argo's unionized staff in this service area, represented by the B.C. Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU), will be offered jobs with the new maintenance contractor.

All of the rights of the unionized employees, including seniority and entitlement to benefits, as described in the collective agreement that was negotiated as part of the recent five-year contract extensions, will continue.

Argo's staff in this service area, the Ministry Transportation and Infrastructure and the BCGEU were formally advised of this change on Jan. 31, 2013.

Joe Wrobel, president and general manager of JPW Road and Bridge Inc., has extensive experience in the industry. JPW Road and Bridge Inc.'s contract for Okanagan-Shuswap expires on March 28, 2019.

Argo Road Maintenance has contracts to maintain roads and bridges in two other service areas - South Okanagan and Thompson - and will continue to operate there.

Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241


]]> Cycling investment supports communities and families tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5493 2013-03-18T16:45:00Z 2013-03-18T19:08:13Z Twenty communities throughout British Columbia received more than $7.36 million in BikeBC funding this year to expand and build cycling lanes, trails and paths for B.C families, contribute to increased physical activity and help reduce greenhouse gases. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - Twenty communities throughout British Columbia received more than $7.36 million in BikeBC funding this year to expand and build cycling lanes, trails and paths for B.C families, contribute to increased physical activity and help reduce greenhouse gases.

This year's 21 projects cover a range of initiatives, including a new cycling track in Maple Ridge, new bike lanes in Terrace, intersection improvements to the E&N Rail Trail in Esquimalt, the UBC-Okanagan Connector Phase 2 Rails with Trails and new bike lanes on Ladner Trunk Road in Delta.

BikeBC is a cost-sharing program between the government of B.C. and local governments. This year's investment will help create more than $14.5 million in cycling infrastructure.

Cycling is a key component of the B.C. government's strategy for encouraging healthy living and addressing climate change, in conjunction with the Climate Action Plan and the Provincial Transit Plan.

Quote:

Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Mary Polak:

"This funding will improve the quality of life for residents living in communities throughout the province. These projects will create a cleaner environment by providing alternative transportation options and will build a legacy of good health for generations to come."

Quick Facts:

  • Since 2001, the B.C. government has committed over $148 million in cycling infrastructure, creating new bicycle lanes and trails in over 75 communities.
  • Last year, the B.C. government committed $7.25 million in BikeBC funding throughout the province.
  • Cycling 10 kilometres to and from work every day would reduce your greenhouse gas emissions by 15,000 kg a year.
  • Cycling eight kilometres is equal to 30 minutes of moderate exercise.

Learn More:

For more information about Bike BC, visit: www.th.gov.bc.ca/BikeBC

Media Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241

BACKGROUNDER

21 projects boost B.C. cycling infrastructure

Community - Project Title: Grant Amount

Capital Regional District - E&N Rail Trail - intersection improvements: $765,216

Chilliwack - Boundary Road Shoulder Bike Way: $26,323

Comox - Anderton Road Bike Lanes: $12,500

Coquitlam - Coquitlam Fraser Greenway, Separated Bike Path: $175,000

Courtenay - Fitzgerald Avenue Bike Lanes: $44,161

Delta - Ladner Trunk Road Bike Lanes: $176,050

Kelowna - UBC Okanagan Connector Phase 2 Rails with Trails: $1,520,384

Langley Township - Allard Crescent Shoulder Bikeway: $100,000

Maple Ridge - Lougheed Highway Multi-Use Cycle Track: $488,956

North Vancouver - North Shore Spirit Trail: $100,000

North Vancouver District - Main/Barrow Bike Route: $69,375

North Vancouver District - Mount Seymour Parkway Bike Lanes: $480,900

Pitt Meadows - Kennedy Road Multi-Use Pathway: $100,000

Port Moody - Moody St Overpass Cantilevered Bike/Pedestrian facility: $652,625

Prince George Otway - Miworth Trail Planning study: $15,000

Richmond - Railway Avenue Greenway, Separated Path from Granville St to Garry St: $449,400

Rossland - Upper Columbia Multi Use Trails: $25,000

Surrey - Port Mann to City Centre Neighbourhood Bike Route: $1,159,870

Terrace - Kenney Street Bike Lanes: $41,300

Vancouver - Hastings Park Multiple Greenways and Separated Paths: $905,424

Victoria - Johnson Street, Begbie Street and Shelbourne Street Buffered Bike Lanes: $47,964

Media Contact:

Kate Trotter
Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
250 356-8241


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