Abstract Manager

In 2021, the Town of Sidney, BC (2021 pop. – 12,318) initiated an Active Transportation Plan (ATP) process with the goal of identifying long-term walking and cycling networks to guide investment in active transportation infrastructure over the next ten years. The ATP was carried out over a year long process that included technical analysis, plan development, and community consultation. A key outcome was Council endorsement of the ATP, but also commitment to fund and advance the Town’s first AAA bikeway project.

The final stages of the ATP process received considerable community attention as network plans were finalized and consideration was given to advancing the Town’s first AAA bikeway project. In-depth conversations relating to north-south cycling connectivity, parking loss, and impacts on traffic and transit circulation ultimately led the Town to choose a north-south neighbourhood bikeway as the focus for implementation.

The Town is advancing design work on the Bowerbank Road Neighbourhood Bikeway (to be completed Spring 2024). This will be the first AAA cycling project in Sidney and will provide a connection between neighbourhoods in north Sidney, the local elementary school and downtown. The facility is being designed to full AAA standard, with specific attention given to opportunities for traffic diversion to reduce volumes, maintaining access for transit, and providing connections to neighbouring park and trail facilities. Steps are being taken to ensure this first project will be successfully received and provide the basis for advancing further active transportation infrastructure projects in Sidney.

The process being undertaken by the Town of Sidney is an example of a small town taking the initial steps toward infrastructure to support more people walking and cycling. The lessons learned from the planning and design process provide inspiration and lessons learned for other small Canadian municipalities.

The presentation will focus on the following learning opportunities for session attendees:

1. Challenges and successes in active transportation network planning in a small, compact community (12,000 people, 5km²).
2. Lessons learned in engaging community members and Council in selecting priority cycling infrastructure projects.
3. Neighbourhood bikeway design approaches to support AAA cycling and generate support for future cycling network investments. Design includes traffic diversion measures, accommodation of transit and connection to the Lochside Regional Trail.