In the run-up to the municipal elections on November 3, Vélo Québec has made public its hopes and expectations for making Quebec municipalities safer and more cyclist-friendly. These are based on two major proposals:
- Significantly increase the use of bicycles in the travel habits of Quebecers by 5% for all Quebec cities
- Invest in cycling facilities and traffic calming.
Vélo Québec has been observing the evolution of cycling in Quebec for 46 years. It seems clear that cities are aware of the virtues of bicycle travel and the expectations of their fellow cyclists (52% of the Quebec population cycles, including 2 million people every week). However, while most cities have drawn up or are in the process of drawing up a sustainable mobility plan, which obviously includes cycling, it has to be said that little money has been allocated to these plans, and deadlines are often far too long. In short, cities are committed to the principle, but their lack of eagerness to make the necessary changes makes us doubt the good faith of many elected officials. Intentions are all very well, but politicians are judged by their actions.
Vélo Québec is therefore proposals which affect all Quebec cities, with a slightly more detailed analysis for Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, Quebec City and Gatineau.
The elections are approaching, and this platform will help us to make the expectations of Quebec cyclists of their elected representatives a reality. Don't hesitate to use it to demand long-awaited changes and clear commitments from election candidates and your elected representatives.
Happy autumn!
