All Ages and Abilities Transportation Route Study

The District of Squamish is exploring options for an all ages and abilities (AAA) bike route that links downtown to Brackendale, on the west side of the highway. The goal of the project is to identify a route that is safe and comfortable for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. 

Project Background

The District's Active Transportation Plan outlines the need for an improved bike route on the west side of the highway. It suggests creating protected bike lanes on the Government Road corridor.

There is an existing on-street bike lane that follows the Government Road corridor. This is known as a "fast-commuter route" that allows cyclists to travel quickly. However, the lack of protection from vehicle traffic may make the route less comfortable for children, families, and less experienced riders. The goal of this project is to identify a route between downtown and Brackendale that is safe and comfortable for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

The District is considering a variety of route options, as well as different types of cycling facilities to meet the goals of an AAA bike route. These could include:

• Protected bike lanes
• On-street bike lanes
• Off-street bicycle pathways
• Multi-use pathways

Public Engagement

We need your input as we determine the best route, as well as identify what facility types will make cycling most comfortable along the route. We want to know: 

• What transportation mode (walk, bike, bus, vehicle etc) do you use to travel on the route that links downtown and Brackendale on the west side of the highway? 
• What are the existing challenges you experience travelling between downtown and Brackendale on the west side of the highway?
• What are the key destinations you need to get to between downtown and Brackendale?

Please learn more and provide your input at: letstalksquamish.ca/aaa-bike-route

Project Timeline

February-April 2023: Project Initiation and Background Research

Spring-Summer 2023: Public engagement to understand existing challenges, travels needs, and key destinations on the west side of the highway

Fall-Winter 2023: Exploration of a fast commuter route along the Government Road corridor. It is anticipated that this will be separate from the AAA route where possible.

Winter 2024: Report with Recommended Route for All Ages and Abilities