Re: Bike lanes in Red Deer, catalyst for change
I read with interest the letter and editorials in the Aug. 29 Advocate. Certainly, it has been a lively discussion that Red Deerians are having on the expansion of the bicycle lanes in Red Deer.
The Red Deer Primary Care Network (PCN) — your family physician working in partnership with Central Health Zone of Alberta Health Services — has been integral in moving up plans as generally outlined in the City of Red Deer’s Master Transportation Plan.
Encouraged by ourselves, the Red Deer Bicycle Commuters Association, ReThink Red Deer, and Safe Communities Central Alberta, the City of Red Deer has taken the lead in financing the creation of integrated bike lanes on our roadways.
The Red Deer PCN has provided financial support in educating the public about the lanes through brochures and the presence of a stall at the Saturday morning Red Deer Public Market.
As with our helping the city establish the outdoor gyms and the disc golf facility in north Red Deer, the Red Deer PCN aims to get people active in their daily lives.
The projects funded are not meant to build people into superathletes, but are meant to be a catalyst in encouraging good health.
The bike lane pilot project is just another way that Red Deerians, with regular usage can get and stay healthy.
If enough Red Deerians use the lanes, maybe we can get rid of them, when there is mutual respect and care between motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians!
So, I look forward to the discussion and ultimately, the decision of city council. Whatever the decision regarding the bike lanes pilot project, do remember, your choices reveal your priorities.
Peter Mah, MD
Board Member
Past President
Red Deer Primary Care Network