Abstract Manager

This session will highlight innovative approaches to active transportation network planning that we have applied to Active Transportation Master Plans (ATMPs). Through our work on network planning for ATMPs, we have approached planning two types of networks in tandem within a municipality to address the needs of different types of active transportation users. The Spine and Connector Network has been developed to follow typical approaches to network planning: providing separated facilities as Spine Routes on busy arterial roads and dedicated space as Connector Routes on collector roads to feed into the Spine Routes. This typical approach has often served the needs of active transportation commuters, while not necessarily providing connections to other types of destinations. By proposing a second parallel network on more local roads (called a Low Stress Network or Greenway Network), we provide access to more local destinations and create a more equitable active transportation network. The Low Stress Network routes are proposed to create spaces that are still comfortable for people of all ages and abilities by de-prioritizing the through movement of motor vehicle traffic through the use of traffic diversion and traffic calming measures.

The planning of safer active transportation routes on local roads is one way to achieve greater gender equity within our transportation networks. Due to outdated patriarchal gender roles, women are more likely to be caregivers within a family. Making these caregiver trips by active transportation require safe ways to access local destinations, such as schools, parks and playgrounds, and care centres. Planning for local routes and utilizing measures to reduce vehicle traffic enable these trips.

This presentation will draw on the recently approved St. Catharines ATMP to provide examples of the technical approach to identifying opportunities for a Low Stress Network. Examples for comparison will be drawn from transportation networks of other cities. The design of routes will draw on various built examples from cities across Canada. Examples of routes within the proposed active transportation network will be highlighted and the challenges for implementing a well-connected Low Stress Network will be discussed. The presentation will provide an overview lessons learned and actions that attendees can take to support Low Stress Networks and transportation equity in active transportation.