Skip to content

Lanes lead to better future

The City of Red Deer commuter bike pilot program has gone full swing in recent weeks, gathering a lot of attention from both supporters and critics.

The City of Red Deer commuter bike pilot program has gone full swing in recent weeks, gathering a lot of attention from both supporters and critics.

Regardless of your position on the matter, city council and staff deserve a round of applause for taking the initiative to work with community groups in the development of this far-reaching alternative transportation program.

Working together to engage residents of Red Deer, the project will evolve to include the best ideas and practices from all points of view.

We believe the key thing for all Red Deerians to remember is not to focus on the painted lines, per se, but where the lanes are leading. We think it is to a more connected, healthy and happy city.

In the interest of a robust and democratic debate, please take a moment to visit and complete the city’s survey to ensure we hear from all sides and perspectives of the community.

Whether you are in favour or opposition of the commuter bike lanes, awareness of the issues and having open-minded conversations will help ensure that the best decisions are made for all users of our streets and transportation routes.

A great place for these conversations to happen is at the Red Deer Public Market.

For those interested, there will be a Bike Rodeo on Saturday, Sept. 15, starting at St. Thomas Aquinas Middle School (3812 39th St). The event is open to all and educational small-group mini-rides starting at 9 a.m. will be organized before the parade begins at 10 a.m. An experienced cyclist will go over some basics of using bike lanes, then take a small group of riders out to practise what was learned.

Enjoy the few remaining days of summer and ride/drive safe!

Rene Michalak

Co-ordinator

ReThink Red Deer