WATCH: The province announced $2.7-million in bike infrastructure funding for seven Vancouver Island communities. Monica Martinez reports.
Paramedics attend a cyclist struck at the intersection of Blanshard and Finlayson Wednesday morning.
The cyclist was thrown into the windshield, but had a helmet on and went to hospital with minor injuries.
Provincial and local governments are working to improve biking infrastructure, hoping it will result in less cycling and vehicle collisions.
On Wednesday, The B.C. Government announced $2.7-million in in BikeBC funding to seven Vancouver Island communities.
“I think that’s a great day for the folks in Greater Victoria and Vancouver Island,” said Transportation Minister Todd Stone.
Most of the money will be spent in the Capital Regional District.
The biggest chunk, $1-million, will be spent on connecting the E&N Rail Trail from Maplebank Road to Hallowell Road in Esquimalt.
Rather than following the existing railway track which cuts through the middle of the Esquimalt Nation reserve, the new trail follows Admirals Road.
Chief Andy Thomas said the rail trail was a hard issue for a lot of families living on the reserve.
“It has taken both side to learn how to work together,” he said.
Other projects include two-way protected bike lanes on Pandora Street, bike lanes on Lansdowne Road in Saanich and separated bike lanes on Dunford Avenue in Saanich.
Nanaimo and Port Alberi will also benefit.
Cycling advocate Edward Pullman said he is happy with the news.
“We are hoping to see more in the coming months and the coming years certainly because an investment in cycling infrastructure is an investment in the environment, it’s an investment in health, and it’s an investment in safety,” said Pullman, spokesperson for the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition.
It’s an investment in safety that might encourage more people to hop on a bike and enjoy the ride.
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