We already knew about the many virtues of cycling, but the last two years of the pandemic have confirmed it: cycling is a formidable tool for transforming our living environments, at every level. With its many benefits, cycling has become a concrete solution for staying active, getting around, keeping morale up and even (re)discovering Quebec.
Pedaling...
Benefiting from this great wave of love for cycling and an exceptional cycling infrastructure such as the Route verte, cycle tourism has participated in the revival of the tourism industry and is now positioned as the activity of choice by many Quebecers, whatever their age or level of practice. Cyclotourists enjoy a slow-paced tourism style, favoring longer stays and greater spending on local products and services such as stores, restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores, hotels and motels. Responsible, sustainable tourism is in vogue, and its spin-offs benefit the entire local economy. A trend that is set to continue and grow in 2022, given the rise of electric-assist bicycles.
Taking action...
Increasing the number of cyclists is closely linked to the creation of favorable environments. Quebecers have high expectations when it comes to cycling facilities, and they expressed this during the last municipal elections by choosing administrations that encourage cycling for both leisure and travel. Newly elected municipal officials will have to meet these expectations.
With the 2022 provincial election just around the corner, it's essential that the provincial parties include a strong, clear vision for active transportation in their platforms. We'll be sure to remind them and demonstrate the importance and benefits of investing in active and sustainable transportation for the health and well-being of the population, the economy and the environment.
For Vélo Québec and the cycling community, this is excellent news, and as always, we'll be there to support and encourage communities and organizations throughout Quebec, offering them various tools and programs like the VÉLOSYMPATHIQUE movement, Cycliste averti or Toutes à vélo to help them develop this cycling culture in their communities.
Transforming...
Developing and promoting cycling for all is at the heart of Vélo Québec's mission. For us, organizing and encouraging participation in popular rides means bringing the pleasure of cycling to a large number of people of all ages. In 2022, we're staying the course to bring you, from May 29 to June 5, the activities of the Go vélo Montréal Festival - Tour de l’Île de Montréal, Tour la Nuit and Défi métropolitain - and to bring you the Petite Aventure, from May 1 to June 5.er to July 3, and the Grand Tour, from August 6 to 12. In addition, we offer cycling trips throughout Quebec and Canada, and even in Europe. Naturally, we'll be keeping a close eye on the situation, and adjusting as the health situation evolves.
We look forward to 2022 with optimism and, above all, with the certainty that our mission is more essential than ever in advancing the cause and helping to build the cycling Quebec of tomorrow. There's still a lot of work to do, but we'll be there.
Happy cycling in 2022!
Jean-François Rheault
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
