The Regional Niagara Bicycling Committee (RNBC)
Background
In May 1992, the Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO)
published the Revised Bicycle Policy and was making funding available on a
cost shared basis for the development of bicycling facilities. A
conditions for funding required that there be a detailed study and
subsequent plan in place that demonstrated cycling needs, network
connectivity and a prioritized approach for implementation.
Locally - Regional Niagara had no bicycle plan, no
designated cycling routes/bikeways, few bicycling policies in place and an
increasing public demand to address some of these issues. Regional Niagara
eventually made a commitment to the Ontario Ministry of Environment to
undertake a comprehensive Bicycling Study and was able to make
arrangements for partial funding through the MTO.
A Coordinating Committee with staff from Regional Niagara
Public Works & Planning, MTO representatives and a member from the
Niagara Regional Police Service was established. The Coordinating
Committee selected M.M. Dillon Limited and Trowbridge & Wolf
Associates to undertake the Regional Niagara Bicycling
Study. It commenced in April 1994, was completed in January 1995 and
approved by Regional Council on February 16, 1995.
The study's objectives were to:
- Develop bicycling related policies and guidelines within the Niagara
Region
- Identify a bicycling network that could be phased in over time, in
cooperation with member municipalities, other agencies and the public
Benefits identified resulting from the implementation of
the Regional Niagara Bicycling Study include increased opportunities for
utilitarian, touring and recreational cycling; enhanced safety and
convenience for cyclists, pedestrians and motorists; increased economic
development; and a contribution to the overall quality of life within the
Region.
The Regional Niagara Bicycling Committee (RNBC)
was established by Regional Council in order to direct the implementation
of the Regional Niagara Bicycling Study and is expected to play a useful
and active role in providing input on a wide range of topics and issues
related to bicycling within the Region.
The Terms of
Reference for the Regional Niagara Bicycling Committee as approved by
Regional Council are intended to provide structure and focus for the RNBC.
Due to limited financial and staff resources at Regional Niagara, the
RNBC operates with no budget; consequently substantial volunteer
assistance as well as sponsorship and initiatives from the public and
business are essential for its success. | 