Active Transportation

Squamish’s first Active Transportation Plan has been adopted. The purpose of the plan is to increase transportation choices within the community and to provide an accessible, sustainable, and efficient transportation system for all users, including commuter cycling, walking, wheelchairs, scooters, walkers and strollers. The plan outlines infrastructure projects as well as actions and policies to support and encourage walking and cycling in Squamish over the next 20 years and beyond.

POWER YOUR OWN TRANSPORTATION

Cycling, walking, roller-skating/in-line skating and skateboarding are some examples of active transportation, or non-motorized human powered transportation.  Through the 2031 Multi-modal transportation plan cycle and pedestrian infrastructure priorities have been identified. Through initiatives such as Safe Routes to School, the District is working to improve our commuter cycling and mixed use trail network, and sidewalk network.

The District of Squamish recently began developing an Active Transportation Plan to make it easier for people to walk, cycle, or travel using other forms of non-motorized transportation in and around our community.  Click here to learn more.

Cycling in Squamish

Getting around by bike has environmental, health and social benefits. View the cycling map to learn more about getting around by bike in Squamish.

Support Safe Cycling

Check out B.C.’s Bicycle operator’s Manual

Learn the rules of the road, proper bike handling, traffic skills and how to enjoy safe cycling.

Are you interested in bike commuting but don’t feel like climbing the hill home at the end of the day?  All Squamish Transit buses are loaded with bike racks. Check out this short video from the Greater Phoenix Metro Area on how to load your bike onto a public transit bike rack.

According to the Victoria Transportation Policy Institute the benefits of active transportation include:

• Lower infrastructure costs
• Reduced healthcare spending
• Reduced traffic congestion
• Increased retail sales
• Higher property values
• Increased tourism
• Inreased business investments
• Consumer cost savings
• Increased health and fitness
• Reduction in air and noise pollution
• Decreased greenhouse gas emissions
• Improved safety for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers
• More livable communities
• Improved mobility options

Did you know?

• Active transportation incorporates physical activity into your daily routine, increases mobility and social equity while improving community livability and safety by getting people out of their cars, and interacting in their community.
• The Canadian Automobile Association estimates the cost of owning and operating a car to be $8,944.50/year compared to $150/year for a bicycle, and shifts from driving to walking or bicycling provide roadway infrastructure and traffic service cost savings.

• In BC 30% of greenhouse gas emissions are from cars and light-duty trucks with the average trip distance less then 5km. For these short trips, cycling and walking can play a significant role in combating climate change.

• (Source: http://physicalactivitystrategy.ca/pdfs/BEAT/BEAT_Publication.pdf)