October 28/04 8:44 am - BC Restores Cost Sharing for Cycling, 2004 IMBA Report Card: Vote NOW!

Posted by Editoress on 10/28/04
 

Provincial Cost-Sharing for Cycling Facilities
Courtesy BC Cycling Coalition

In response to Minster of Transportation Kevin Falcon's announcement on Sunday, the British Columbia Cycling Coalition (BCCC) congratulates the Province of British Columbia for restoring cost-sharing funds for municipal bicycle projects. "Our organization is very happy to see some funding will now be going to satisfy the great demand for cycling facilities throughout the province" stated BCCC director Brian Collier. "Today's announcement is a hopeful sign that issues related to active transportation, those who walk and bicycle to work, will receive serious attention."

The BCCC is pleased that the province recognizes the importance of cycling transportation and looks forward to working with the Province on issues such as incorporating cycling into both new projects and roadway rehabilitation. "It was heartening to see Minister of Health Colin Hansen participate in the announcement and acknowledge the benefits of active living to the overall health of BC's residents" stated BCCC president Peter Stary. "Making sure that cycling and walking are considered whenever work is done is a cost-effective way to facilitate active transportation."

For information on the BC Cycling Coalition visit www.bccc.bc.ca


Rate Your Riding in the IMBA Report Card
Courtesy IMBA

Get out and vote...in the IMBA Report Card, that is. IMBA is asking mountain bikers everywhere to get into the spirit of election season by rating your state or region in the 2004 IMBA Report Card.

Rate your riding here: www.imba.com/interactive/report_card

The Report Card provides an annual analysis of mountain biking access and advocacy progress for U.S. states, Canadian provinces and other countries. In addition to a letter grade, each area's trail riding opportunities and threats are summarized. Grades are based on a number of factors: singletrack access, land manager attitudes, relations with other trail user groups and the long-term outlook for mountain biking.

"It really helps to have mountain bikers everywhere participate in the IMBA Report Card," said IMBA advocacy manager Dan Vardamis. "It provides accurate info about places where access is solid and also draws attention to locales that need help. Plus, it's fun to see how your area does versus the rest of the world."

This is the fifth year of the IMBA Report Card. Arizona and British Columbia earned top marks in the 2003 Report Card, both receiving A-grades. Arizona earned its A with a cool statewide trail network, success in urban areas and the re-opening of Saguaro National Park to mountain bikers. British Columbia boasts outstanding freeriding, abundant trails and exceptional mountain biking clubs and culture.

Online voting is combined with input from IMBA staff, field reps and local club leaders to determine final grades. IMBA will tally the results and provide a detailed analysis in a special edition of IMBA Trail News.