Election 2011: Amanda Nichol
Ms. Drugge, I realize this may be a little later than you hoped but I would like to give you some responses. Thanks for your questions, I'm very interested in hearing opinions and ideas on all of these aspects of bicycling in our community!
1. What modes of transportation do you normally use within Metro Vancouver? Do you ever use a bike for transportation in your municipality?
I have 2 young children (1 and 4 years old), we walk most places as we live in low Lonsdale. We also have to drive on occasion.
2. How would you support and encourage cycling for transportation to promote healthy and livable communities?
Look at opportunities for safe bike routes that could potentially be bike only routes. Look at benefits that could be provided for those that choose to cycle. It would be great to provide incentives for those that take the initiative to get out of their cars and benefit their health and the health of our community.
3. Do you think the current level of funding for cycling in your municipality is adequate?
I wish that there was a way to increase funding without raising taxes. I am open to ideas and am willing to work at establishing partnerships and finding ways to pursue any kind of funding opportunities that may be available at a provincial or federal level and to work with other non-profit groups to establish any kind of additional funding ideas.
4. What would you do to ensure a sustainable and adequate source of cycling funding during your term in office?
Actively pursue partnerships with the District, with Capilano University, major employers that are willing to provide incentives to employees and others that are willing to take the step to go green. Also work to lobby provincial and federal levels of government for any additional funding opportunities.
5. What is your level of interest in a public bike-share system integrated with the transit system?
It sounds like a great idea! What are the costs associated with it. I would like to know what barriers there are to doing this and what role I can play in assisting with it going ahead.
6. What role do you think the municipality has in supporting and promoting cycling education for children, cyclists and motorists?
VERY important. Cycling education helps to keep everyone safe. There is no licensing required for cycling and I think it is important in this day and age to teach everyone the rules of the road and to RESPECT each other. If there are ways of making it easier and safer for everyone, I am in favour of it.
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