Investing in Active Mode Infrastructure

Let’s dive into a hot topic - the investment in the bike plan (active mode infrastructure). In December 2022, Council committed $100 million in capital to the implementation of the Bike Plan. I’ve heard from numerous constituents about the lack of active mode infrastructure in Edmonton (especially north to south connections). I’ve also heard from folks who are upset with this investment. 

I thought it’d be good to share some of the considerations that went into my support. 

1. Increased accessibility, equity, and safety. 

Not all bike infrastructure consists of protected bike lanes. It also encompasses shared-use pathways which benefit many users, including pedestrians, people using mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers and scooters, as well as strollers.

Providing options for individuals who choose, or need, to travel by methods other than vehicles allows for increased accessibility, equity and safety. Council also invested in building missing links for sidewalks as well as a dedicated sidewalk repair program. 

2. Trade-offs with other projects 

I heard concern from many residents about the disproportionate investment in downtown and lack of investment in areas such as the northside. I was comfortable with approving this with the understanding that two active mode projects (High Level Line and 100 Street Pedestrian Bridge) were stopped. These projects almost equaled the same cost as the bike network strategy which will build over 130 kms of active pathways across the city. 

While there are many other issues to tackle, the funding used to pay for active infrastructure cannot be used for operations to address issues such as housing/homelessness or community safety. There were still investments in other ways in priority areas such as community safety, housing, snow clearing, and transit services to name a few. 

3. Advancing mobility in all modes of transportation

I determined the investment in active modes was proportionate when compared to other mobility investments. We have invested $1.8 billion in road improvements (e.g. Yellowhead Trail, Terwillegar Drive, 50 Street grade separation, new ramps at Anthony Henday Drive and 137 Ave). We also invested significantly in transit (LRT, rapid bus routes, On-Demand, and safety initiatives). I felt that without this investment we weren’t giving people all the options for how to get around the city. 

4. Active Infrastructure is used all-year round 

While I will be the first to recognize that the number of users decreases in the winter months, active mode infrastructure is used year round. The cold season lasts about 4.5 months from November - March with an average of 60 days/year below -15C. As the city continues to grow, technology changes (such as electric bikes), and as more continuous active pathways are accessible, I have no doubt the number of users will also increase year round.

Ultimately investing in active mode infrastructure is about investing in the future of Edmonton and in the people that call Edmonton home!