Times Colonist: More money for bicycles and buses

Those who commute by bikes and buses will benefit from a decision by the Capital Regional District board to split $11.3 million of gas tax rebate funds over five years between B.C. Transit and the proposed West Side Rail Trail that will connect the West Shore to downtown.

In passing the motion, directors pointed out that everyone benefits from reduced greenhouse gases when fewer single-passenger cars are on the road.The directors decided against two other options that would have solely benefited B.C. Transit or spread funds across transit, bicycle, pedestrian and roadway improvements.

After a morning discussion, the board members meeting in committee approved the 50-50 “compromise” option, later endorsed by a majority of the board. This means $5.65 million of the regional strategic priority fund will go to B.C. Transit and $5.65 million to the West Side Bike Trail and cycling strategy.

The transit money will ensure the success of the Douglas Street corridor project, designed to streamline bus service along the busy access route. The other funds will allow the region to complete the West Side Rail Trail and prepare a supporting cycling strategy ensuring the trail forms part of the transportation system.

“A compromise is good, because I was concerned about transit taking it all,” said John Luton, executive director of the Capital Bike & Walk Society, after the meeting.

“The West Side Rail Trail is very important and I want to see that supported, but I think [North Saanich Mayor] Ted Daly made some good points that we really haven’t established the regional role in supporting cycling and walking as transportation choices.

“This is a project-focused decision.”

Ron Drolet of B.C. Transit was delighted with the board’s decision despite the regional bus service not getting all the cash.

“The board was wrestling with all of the interests. I was sympathetic to the challenge of what’s the right balance between the various modes. What the board did today was acknowledge a very significant project for transit.”

The decision yesterday was part of the CRD’s TravelChoices Strategy, adopted in April 2005 as the region’s first transportation strategy. It’s expected to become the foundation for future mega-projects such as mass transit systems.

The goal is to improve mobility and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.