My city is on pause, and I've never needed to move so much to feel alive: take a walk or pedal my city or road bike to get my heart going and remind me that it's still beating.
In my viewpoint of april 21, I was just telling you that the bicycle is increasingly perceived around the world as a tool for deconfinement. We've always known that the bicycle is a great means of solo transport, allowing us to enjoy the spring sunshine and fresh air, and get to the destination of our choice.
That's why I'd like to talk to you about the exceptional summer we're about to experience. You can already feel it: many of you are on your bikes, alone, with your children, with friends 2 m away, wanting to explore the town where you live. Mayors from different cities are contacting us to ask «what are we doing?», a little amazed by the number of cyclists in their area. Our message is simple: «You welcome them, you make room for them and you encourage them to share the road», as many cyclists will be exploring their city. Riding along a riverbank, climbing a small urban mountain, exploring a little-known neighborhood or park - these are just some of the pleasures many of us will be indulging in to escape our new, too-casual lives.
When the tourism industry picks up again, we'll be keen to explore neighboring towns by bike and «travel» back home, in our region or elsewhere in Quebec. A ride or a trip on two wheels is a unique and energizing experience that combines scenic beauty, sporting activity and a good dose of endorphins: all the ingredients that make us feel alive, active and happy despite the pandemic.
This summer, I want to feel the warm wind on my skin, I want to explore without crossing borders, I want to meet you on the roads of Quebec, and all the while maintaining the required physical distance. This summer, like every year, I'm even more keen on cycling, and I think, to my great delight, that I won't be the only one on the road!
Suzanne Lareau
President and General Manager
