**** Halifax Media Release
New Bikeway Network in Halifax and Dartmouth
—————————————————————-
Pedestrians and cyclists in Halifax and Dartmouth will soon have 30 kilometres more in accessible transportation options.
MLA Rafah DiCostanzo, on behalf of Energy and Mines Minister Derek Mombourquette, MP Andy Fillmore, on behalf of Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Mayor Mike Savage announced today, July 29, the Halifax Regional Centre All Ages and Abilities Bikeway Network project will receive a $25 million investment from all three levels of government.
“This is a significant investment to improve the way we live and move around in these communities,” said Ms. DiCostanzo. “The network is an investment in our green economy that will create jobs while also encouraging clean and healthy transportation choices that connect people to places and take cars off the road.”
“The network will provide residents safer and more flexible transportation options and build a more inclusive, diverse and welcoming community,” said Mr. Fillmore. “Upgrading public transit infrastructure helps our cities provide efficient and reliable services that transform the way Canadians live, move, and work.”
“Cities that care about the environment and the everyday activities that help make residents healthier, happier and connected are places that draw and keep residents,” said Mayor Savage. “This bikeway is a critical part of the municipality’s Integrated Mobility Plan and our goal to move 30 per cent of residents’ local travel to walking, cycling and transit by 2031.”
The project will be accelerated over the next three years and create a comprehensive system linking all corners of the cities from north to south and east to west.
“Active transportation infrastructure is the linchpin to building safe, healthy and sustainable communities and this means our communities will be connected with safe places for people to walk, bike or use a mobility device no matter what their age or ability,” said Kelsey Lane of the Ecology Action Centre. “We could not be more thrilled that all levels of government recognize the critical importance of this network for Halifax and have come together to make it a reality.”
The federal government will contribute $12.5 million to the project. The province and Halifax Regional Municipality will invest $8.25 million and $4.25 million respectively.
The network is part of Halifax’s Integrated Mobility Plan. The project will improve the capacity of the area’s active transportation system and enhance the physical condition and accessibility of the pathways.