Today I had the distinct honour of speaking at the launch of the six-week countdown to the 25th annual Bike to Work Week. Below I attach a copy of my brief remarks.

Opening Remarks

It is a pleasure for to join you today for the 25th annual Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week launch event.

I’d like to start by congratulating the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society for 25 years of tremendous success. This event has become an institution in our region and this is a milestone worth celebrating!

Through your outstanding efforts, more than 14,000 new riders have been introduced to commuter cycling and more than 100,000 cyclists have been engaged through events and education over the past 25 years.

Thank you for the work you have done with young cyclists to foster their love of cycling from an early age. We know people are most likely to develop life long habits if they start young. Bike to School events and your educational programs help to get youth comfortable and equipped with the knowledge and skills required to be confident, safe and happy cyclists.

Bike to Work Week is an important gateway event to draw new people into commuter cycling. Once they give it a try and have a positive experience, it can lead to a change in behaviour; some participants become regular bike commuters. It’s all about creating an environment of fun, positive encouragement and community building that works to promote behaviour change.

Active transportation, including commuter cycling, can have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions as more and more people reduce their dependence on cars.

In fact, this is a critical part of the CleanBC plan – to which the BC Green Caucus is firmly committed.

The Province has committed to offer incentives to local governments and public sector organizations to support active transportation, including cycling. The CleanBC plan includes providing grants to communities throughout BC to support cycling infrastructure and cycling tourism.

The government is seeking public input on active transportation and I hope you will participate – go online to CleanBC Active Transportation. The current consultation online is open until April 15^th.

At the BC Legislature, the bike parking room is always overflowing and people have started campaigning for more bike parking. Most of the staff in my office commute to work by bike, on foot or by bus. In fact, we’ll be registering a team in Bike to Work Week in May.

The personal benefits of commuting by bike are many, including the enjoyment of starting the day with a ride in our beautiful city and the opportunity to unwind from a hectic day on the way home.

Thank you again for inviting me today and I wish you much success on this year’s Bike to Work Week and continued success in the years to come.