november 14, 2013 mayor carol hamilton

November 14, 2013 Mayor Carol Hamilton City of Colwood 3300 Wishart Road Victoria, BC V9C 1R1 Dear Mayor Hamilton and Council: With the support of the City of Colwood and several other municipalities, including Langford, Metchosin, the Highlands and View Royal, the 2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week enjoyed a highly successful campaign with over 7,400 participants and 660 workplace teams taking part. These participants, including 880 new riders, cycled over 327,000 kilometres during Bike to Work Week, sparing the environment the equivalent of over 76,000 kg of CO2 emissions. In 2013 we are aiming for 7,500 (+) participants while again increasing the profile of Bike to Work Week within communities throughout Greater Victoria. The 2012 BTWW campaign focused on increasing ridership in the Westshore, and for the first time had financial support from all Westshore Communities, except Sooke. Of note, the participation of City of Colwood residents increased from 3.9% in 2011 to 5.1% in 2012. We are writing to request the City of Colwood’s support for the 2013 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week event, by approving a grant in the amount of $2,500. This funding will be used to help offset the costs of planning station logistics, training volunteers, marketing Bike to Work Week throughout the communities of Colwood and Greater Victoria, and conducting one Bike Skills Course for City of Colwood staff and residents. Supporting Bike to Work Week provides a significant array of benefits both to the City of Colwood and the community at large, including assisting Colwood in achieving its vision to be: “The first energy positive, carbon neutral, water smart, green learning city in Canada”. Other compelling benefits include: � Supporting individuals to choose an active, environmentally sustainable transportation mode

which provides health and air quality benefits � Emphasizing value-based business practices that support community health and liveability

and contribute to higher rates of employee retention � Delivering healthy, productive employees and community leaders to their places of work � Reducing congestion load during peak commuting hours and reducing/delaying costs

associated with expanding and repairing roadways Why Bike to Work Week works according to survey respondents:

• Community involvement; to be part of something exciting & successful • Celebration stations, prizes, camaraderie • Hype, Media Promotion/Coverage • Provides excellent resources and support that assists people to organize their

workplaces • It is a FUN way to try a sustainable transportation option

Please find attached our 2013 grant application, our 2012 yearbook, 2012 financial statements, 2013 budget, and an overview of the Bike Skills Course. Your support and endorsement will be greatly appreciated and will be recognized in all BTWW promotions. We will once again locate a celebration station within Colwood for the benefit of your employees and the multitude of bike commuters who live in and travel through the City of Colwood. Sincerely,

Frank Hudson, Executive Director Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society

GRANT APPLICATON GRA-A 001 Page 1 of 3

City of Colwood

2013 GRANT APPLICATION GRA-A 001

Organization: Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society

Contact Name: Frank Hudson, Executive Director

Mailing Address: Box 8837, Victoria, BC V8W 3S3

Phone: 250 920-5775 Fax: 250 920-5773 Email: [email protected]

Amount requested: $2,500.00 Total Project Budget: $330,000 (cash and in-kind)

Have you applied before: Yes/No If yes, Date: January 3, 2012 Amount: $2,500

Did you receive the grant applied for: Yes/No For the amount of ($1,250)

Does your organization receive a Property Tax Exemption in the City: Yes/No

Incorporation number and date of incorporation: S 37679, December 3, 1997

Registered Canadian Charitable Organizations number: n/a

Concisely describe your organization, its mandate and program(s):

Through innovation, education and research, the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society

provides leadership in the promotion of commuter cycling and cycling skills

development throughout Greater Victoria.

Bike to Work Week is an annual week-long event that promotes commuter cycling as a

reasonable and feasible transportation option, and encourages health promoting

practices that benefit individuals and the larger community. The event is free to all

participants and includes residents from all economical spectrums. Greater Victoria

Bike to Work Week has celebration stations at various locations throughout Greater

Victoria which include refreshments, bike safety checks and first-aid, prize draws and

local media. A celebration station is planned to be located in Colwood on the Galloping

Goose Trail (at the Aldeane station across from Royal Roads) as was done in 2012.

The station was held near the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre in years prior to last

year. Team leaders (located in workplaces throughout Greater Victoria) register a team

from their workplace and recruit people to get involved. The event creates a fun,

community focused activity that promotes health and wellness.

mailto:[email protected]


To ensure participants cycle safely, the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society hosts a

series of Bike Skills Courses both leading up to and following Bike to Work Week.

Concisely describe the project for which the funds are being sought. Please indicate

why you think it should receive municipal funding. Feel free to use additional sheets of

paper.

The funds being requested will be used to assist with poster development and printing,

participant kits (material and map printing), celebration station organization, and

conducting one bike skills course for City of Colwood staff and residents (maximum

twelve participants). See attached skills course description.

Purpose of this Project: To encourage people to try commuter cycling and to encourage

adoption of cycling as a lifestyle choice. This provides benefits to the larger community

including decreased traffic congestion, increased use of sustainable transportation

options, greater availability of parking, improved individual health and reinforcing the

City of Colwood status as “The first energy positive, carbon neutral, water smart, green

learning city in Canada”.

Date and Place of Project: The 2013 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week event is being

held May 27th through June 2nd. Celebration stations will be located throughout

Greater Victoria including Colwood.

Describe the benefit to Colwood: Sponsorship of Bike to Work Week provides many

long-term benefits to the City of Colwood and our larger community:

Supporting a shift towards a sustainable and active transportation choices

Emphasizing values-based business practices that support community health

and livability and contribute to higher rates of employee retention

Acknowledges, connects, and expands a network of citizens involved in healthy

and sustainable transportation efforts

Delivering healthy, productive employees and community leaders to their places

of work

Reducing congestion load during peak commuting hours and reducing/delaying

costs associated with expanding and repairing roadways

In 2012, the number of participants from the City of Colwood increased from 3.9% in 2011 to 5.1%. Our survey results indicated that those communities that support Bike to Work Week have an increased uptake by residents. Celebration Station throughout the communities increase the uptake by creating the feeling of Community by being involved in something exciting & successful.


Budget Information Requirement

Please attach details of the project budget and clearly identify estimated revenues and

expenditures and all other sources of funding ant the status of this funding (i.e. secure

or speculative).

Please enclose your last annual report and financial statements, if applicable. Please

include any supporting material that would assist the City in assessing your funding

request.

Application Deadline: November 15 of the year preceding the year funding is

being requested

Authorized Signature: Date: November 14, 2012

Please email or hand-deliver the full grant request application to:

Jennifer Reed, Acting Director of Finance

City of Colwood

3300 Wishart Road, Victoria BC V9C 1R1

P: 250-478-5999 E: [email protected]

Policy GRA-A 001 Adopted by Council: 2009-11-23

mailto:[email protected]

21Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society’s Yearbook

May 28th - June 3rd 2012

29 21

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 .............................................. History, philosophy, format, program, people – Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society

2-3.......................................... Board members, staff, Bike Skills course instructors

4-5 ......................................... Facts and figures

6 .............................................. Launch

7 .............................................. Telus Day of Giving

8-9 ......................................... Commuter Challenge

10-11 ..................................... The week in review

12-13 ..................................... Promotion

14-15 ..................................... Testimonials

16-17 ..................................... Bike Skills Courses

18-21 .................................... Sponsors

22 ........................................... Bike to Work Day

23 ........................................... Messages from the President and the Executive Director

24 ........................................... Message from the Chief Medical Health Officer

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1

HISTORY Bike to Work Week (BTWW) began in 1995 with a core group of commuter cyclists who felt that commuting by bike was intrinsically attractive to those already doing it, and wanted to interest more people in the activity. The first year was supported by the former Ministry of Government Services, with government employees as the target audience.

The non-profit Greater Victoria Bike to Work (GVBTW) Society was formed in 1997, and the event has seen substantial growth since then, from approximately 50 teams and 500 partic-ipants in 1997 to 660 teams and over 7,000 participants in 2021.

By getting people to try commuting by bike for a week in an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie, BTWW helps people to become regular cycle commuters. Experience shows that people rarely move in a single step from never cycling to work, to regular commuting. Rather, it is a process in stages of behaviour modification, illustrated in the diagram shown on page five.

Our key measure of success is the number of new cyclists who take part each year: each year at least 10% of BTWW participants are new riders – a large factor in renewal and growth. If we can get someone to try cycling for just one week and make it a positive expe-rience, this will profoundly alter their personal sense of its long-term feasibility. Big changes towards this lifestyle shift begin with small steps and small success stories/experiences facilitated by this powerful yearly event!

Bike to Work Week depends on two key components: the Program and the People to make the event a success year after year.

• Accessibility: Not only is the event free, simple steps for participation and extensive resources to facilitate participation are made available.

• Visibility: A rigorous PR campaign accompanies each event.

• Education: Bike Skills courses are offered spring through fall and participants have opportunities to access free bike check-ups and advice from local bike shop professionals.

• Celebration: BTWW is comprised of daily events, (Celebration Stations) at locations throughout Greater Victoria, offering participants the opportunity to meet, celebrate their accomplishments, mutually motivate and benefit from lots of prizes and other incentives.

• Volunteers: The event depends on a large network of volunteers who help with set up, take down, and operation of stations, while also encouraging their peers who stop by.

• Team leaders: These are our workplace champions who help organize, motivate and encourage their coworkers.

• Community partners: Local businesses and municipalities provide not only the funds to make the event happen, but also the food, beverages, prizes and bicycle tune-ups which incentivize participation.

• Our enthusiastic participants: The resounding response from the community year after year demonstrates the Society’s “raison d’être”.

THE FORMAT

THE PROGRAM

THE PEOPLE

Opening of the Six Mile Bridge, 1997Left to right: Francis van Loon, then President of the GVCC, Andrew Petter, then BC Attorney General, Moe Sihota, then Esquimalt MLA

1997 t-shirt

29 21

GVBTW BOARD

Vice PresidentLori Garcia-MeredithLighting Consultant Healthy Green Buildings

left: David CubberleyConsultantMomentum Consulting

middle: Dean DuthieSergeant, Saanich Police

right: Ian GraemeManager, Watershed Sustainability BC Ministry of Environment

2

Secretary/Treasurer

Ted JonesOwner and Mortgage Broker

IslandPro Mortgage Corp.

left: John LutonBike, pedestrian and transit advocate Transportation Consultant

middle: Linda Saunders Marketing Consultant(Retired)

right: Rosemary SuttonOperations ManagerTire Stewardship BC

left: Hu WallisMinistry of Environment(Retired)

middle: Sarah WebbClimate Action Coordinator Capital Regional District

right: Kryn ZedelTimes Colonist Circulation Sales

Andrew CrippsDirector, Tripos Consulting

PresidentRob Wickson

Partner Discovery Economic

Consulting

Marsha Petty-JohnsonBike to Work Week and

Skills Course Coordinator

Anke van Leeuwen

Executive DirectorFrank Hudson

Lisa HobdenBike to Work Week Coordinator

Arlene SkagfeldPatrick O’Connor

Claire ClarkeBike to Work Week Coordinator

3

GVBTW STAFF

BIKE SKILLS COURSE INSTRUCTORS

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FACTS & FIGURES

Yearly number of participating new cyclists Greater Victoria

1998

600

800

1,000

1,200

400

200

0

Year 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Yearly number of teams participating Greater Victoria

1998

600

400

200

0

Year 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

660 teams, and over 7,000 cyclists (including 880 ‘newbies’) took part in this year’s event, almost doubling participation since 2003.

Surveys indicate the following:• 55% male• 45% female (national average: 24% female)• 75% aged 35 - 59 years• majority are professionals who choose to cycle for fitness/lifestyle reasons.

4

• Partners with employers• Sponsors courses• Trains instructors

Frequent cycle commuter. Benefits reinforce habit. Champions activity to others

Enlists them as champions

• Reinforces direction of change• Provides skills training• Hosts workshops

Rides more andextends seasonDevelops skills

and confidenceInternalizes choice

Helps them acquire thehabit

• Makes it fun, easy and accessible• Adds prizes and recognizes effort• Models feasibility

Alters perceptions& attitudes Likes benefits wants tocontinue Lapses

tries againnext year

Invitesthem totry it now

Responds to appealWeighs pros

and cons Influenced by peers

• Sponsors teams• Promotes benefits• Mobilizes opinion leaders

Bringsoption toworkplace

Stages of behavioural change: Adopting commuter cycling as a life-style choice

• Creates community presence • Raises visibility, awareness & status • Readies some to begin considering

Option not on radar screen...

Thinking about it...

Tries it during BTWW...

Aquires the habit...

Adopts it aslife-style choice

Public unawareand indifferent

Content with status quo 42% ride at

times for recreation

Puts choicein front of public

Bike to Work Week: Impact on the change process...

1998Year 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Total number of participating cyclists Greater Victoria

6,000

7,000

8,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

5

29 216

The BTWW Launch Event was held on April 16th at Victoria City Hall. Team leaders and other Bike to Work participants mingled with local politicians and media reps while enjoying sandwiches,Cobs baked goods, Booster Juice smoothies, Starbucks coffee and Old Victoria water.

Denise Savoie Victoria MP,selects her T-shirt

left: Mayor Dean FortinCity of Victoria

below: Bike to Work Weekposter people:Kathy Grinde Payroll Administrator, Capital Regional DistrictTodd JohnstonEnvironmental Science OfficerCapital Regional District

below right: Jack KnoxColumnist, Victoria Times Colonistand Erin Glazier, CTV news

below left: Refreshment tableTodd Johnston On Saturday, May 26th, 2012, TELUS employees will

be giving back to the community and celebrating

Bike to Work Week. Bring your family, friends and bikes

and enjoy a free hot dog BBQ and great prizes at our

two Celebration Stations.

Saturday, May 26, 2012, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

■■ City Centre Park, 1089 Langford Pkwy

■■ Uptown Switch Bridge, 28 Crease Avenue

Every customer helps us give where we live.

Thank you.

Join us for a BBQ to celebrate

Bike to Work Week

Alan PerryCFAX 1070interviews David FosterDavid Foster Foundation

BTWW LAUNCH EVENT TELUS DAY OF GIVING

Two additional Celebration Stations promoting Bike to Work Week were enjoyed by hundreds of cyclists courtesy of TELUS team members, past and present, along with their families and friends as part of the TELUS Day of Giving.

Cyclists enjoyed the food and many give-aways and prizes from sponsors including an iPhone from TELUS.

7

29 21

COMMUTER CHALLENGE

The Commuter Challenge was held one week in advance of Bike to Work Week. 20 teams set off from the Uptown Shopping Centre and other area locations (including Langford) and ‘raced’ to the finish at Starbucks, Fort and Blanshard. As in other years, bicycles won handily, with a final tally of: Bikes 15, Cars 5.

8

Todd JohnstonEnvironmental Science Officer

Capital Regional District

9

Lana PophamMLA Saanich SouthOpposition Agricultural Critic

above, left: Les Leyne, Columnist, Victoria Times Colonistright: Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation below, left: Jack Knox, Columnist, Victoria Times Colonistright: Cst. Niki Hodgkinson, Saanich Police

left:Mira Lawrence

CTV

middle: Hudson Mack

News Anchor CTV

Vancouver Island

right:Erin Glazier

CTV

StarbucksFort and Blanshard

29 21

THE WEEK IN REVIEW

Celebration stations:1 Selkirk Trestle South 2 Selkirk Trestle North3 Dockside Green4 Victoria City Hall

1

3

2

10

1

4

Celebration stations:1 VGH Chancellor Park2 Victoria Central Library3 UVic Fountain4 Oak Bay Municipal Hall 5 Saanich Municipal Hall

2

3

5

11

4

1 2

4

29 21

PROMOTION

The Main Events!

Bike to Work May 28th.-June 3rd.

On Saturday, May 26th, 2012, TELUS employees will

be giving back to the community and celebrating

Bike to Work Week. Bring your family, friends and bikes and enjoy a free hot dog BBQ and great prizes at our

two Celebration Stations.

Saturday, May 26, 2012, 11:00 am – 3:00 pmCity Centre Park, 1089 Langford Pkwy

Uptown Switch Bridge, 28 Crease Avenue

Every customer helps us give where we live.

Thank you.

Join us for a BBQ to celebrate

Bike to Work WeekCommuter Challenge – THE THRILLING CAR vs. BIKE RACEWednesday May 23, 7:00 - 9:00 am. Challenge participants will be arriving at the finish line between 7:45 and 8:15 am. Join us at Starbucks 1099 Blanshard Street at Fort. Register your team online or send an email to [email protected]. All you need is a starting point, a car and a bike! Free give-aways from BCAA and Tire Stewardship BC. RUSS HAY’s Bike Shop will provide bicycle first aid to those who need it! As part of the Commuter Challenge several high profile challengers will be taking part in the UPTOWN to DOWNTOWN Challenge, starting at the UPTOWN Centre between 7:30 - 8:00 am! The UPTOWN Centre starting line is on the Boulevard at Uptown.

Free Downtown Commuter Bike Parking Tuesday April 17 - Friday June 1, 2012The Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society, together with Broad Street Cycles, has opened a secure bicycle parking location as part of an ongoing commitment to promote sustainable transportation options within Greater Victoria. Located at 1419 Broad Street, the facility provides a safe and convenient place for commuter cyclists to store their bikes. “Establishing bicycle parking in a downtown Victoria location aims to remove barriers for commuter cyclists and enhances opportunities for residents to try cycling to work for the first time,” said Frank Hudson, Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society Executive Director. The new parking facility is open for public use from April 17 until June 1, 2012.

TELUS Day of Giving - Saturday, May 26, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. The seventh annual TELUS Day of Giving will take place across Canada. On this special day, TELUS employees will be giving back to the community through the celebration of commuter cycling! Two special Celebration Station barbeques will be set up, one at City Centre Park and the other at the Uptown Switch Bridge.

This event is also sponsored in part by -

Trailside Kick-Off! – Monday May 28, 6:45 - 8:45 am, South end of the Selkirk Trestle. Join us for fresh coffee from STARBUCKS , fresh juice from BOOSTER JUICE, fresh baked goods from COBS BREAD, and free give-aways from Tire Stewardship BC.

15 Celebration Stations in between the Trailside Kick-Off and Wrap up BBQ including a Celebration Station in Langford at Veteran’s Memorial Park – Thursday May 31, 3:30 - 5:30 pm.

Wrap up BBQ – Friday June 1, 3:00 - 6:00 pm, FREE! Join us at the North end of the Selkirk Trestle. Enjoy tasty meat and veggie burgers topped off with melted cheese generously supplied by our sponsor Save-On-Foods! Bring a friend, family or the whole workplace team. This final celebration is a fantastic ending to a tremendous week of events!

3

17

6

1

12

Galloping Goose Trail

Quadra St

Qua

dra

St

Sa anich

Ro

ad

Pat Bay H

wy.

UPTOWNMALL

ConnectorConnectorTrail

Yates

Monday May 28th Tuesday May 29th Wednesday May 30th Thursday May 31st Friday June 1st

2. Colwood-Royal Roads 3:30-5:30 pm3. Dockside Green 3:30-5:30 pm

6. Saanich Municipal Hall 3:30-5:30 pm7. Memorial Park 3:30-5:30 pm

4. UVic Fountain 7:30- 9:30 am5. VI Tech Park 6:45 - 8:45 am

1. Selkirk Trestle (South) Kick-o� for the week 6:45-8:45 am

17. Selkirk Trestle (North) Wrap-up BBQ 3:00-6:00 pm

16. Victoria City Hall 6:45-8:45 am

10. Oak Bay Municipal Hall 3:30-5:30 pm11. VGH Chancellor Park 3:30-5:30 pm

8. Victoria Library 6:45- 8:45 am9. Camosun Lansdowne Campus 7:30- 9:30 am

14. UVic Fountain 3:30-5:30 pm15. Veterans Memorial Park 3:30-5:30 pm

12. Blenkinsop Trestle 6:45- 8:45 am13. Royal Jubilee Hospital 6:45- 8:45 am

AM

PM

Celebration station dates and locator map

Event numbers ( above ) correspond to numbers on map, showing station locations. Please note: 9. Camosun Lansdowne Campus and 13. Royal Jubilee Hospital, are not shown on the map. Also, Langford City Centre Park is not shown.

PRE-EVENTS: Commuter Challenge: Wednesday, May 23, 7am - 9am., Starbucks, Blanshard at Fort. Downtown map below:1a

Greater Victoria

TELUS Day of GivingTM Sat. May 26, 11am - 3pm., at the Switch Bridge:1b and at City Centre Park in Langford

11

UVic

Cedar Hill Cross Rd.

McKenzie Ave

R

ing

Ro

ad

Finnerty

Rd.

fountain

VGH Chancellor Park

Esquimalt

7

Goldstream Ave

Old

Isla

nd

Aldeane Ave

Wale Road

Vete

rans

Mem

oria

l Par

kway

Gall oping Goose Trail

Galloping Goose Trail

Belmont Rd.

Hagel Rd.

Royal Roads University

Royal Colwood Golf Club

Colwood Lake

15

2

Hw

y.

Nob Hill Rd.

Kupe

r Ave

.

MillstreamCreek

Meaford Ave.

Langford / Colwood

144

Goldstream Ave.

Downtown

8

1a

TELUS Day of GivingTM

Two Pre-BTWW celebration

stations provided by-

Sat. May 26, 11am - 3pmat the Switch Bridge (1b)

& City Centre Park, Langford

1b

16

10

Oak Bay Municipal Hall

Bike to Work phone: 250.920.5775website: biketowork.ca/victoria

SPONSORED BY

Todd Johnston: Environmental Science O�cer, Capital Regional DistrictWhen I was a kid I rode everywhere on my bike and didn’t’ think twice

about distance or weather because there weren’t a lot of options! Like

many people, I started driving everywhere when I got my license and

promptly forgot about cycling. Luckily for me, the �nancial pressures

of student budgeting and Vancouver tra�c persuaded me to

re-acquaint with my love of the bicycle. That was 18 years ago and

I really can’t even begin to measure the positive bene�ts that it has had

on my health, pocket book, carbon footprint, and overall wellbeing.

When I moved to Victoria �ve years ago I was overjoyed with my

car-free commute on the Goose and all that the city o�ered the cyclist:

from mild winters to abundant cycling infrastructure - a virtual mecca

for the pedal powered! Bike to Work Week is the time to celebrate the

cycling community while supporting those who have been “out of the

saddle” to re-discover the joys of the ride! With the weather getting

nice again, I would encourage those who have contemplated bicycle

commuting to take advantage of the BTWW events, workshops and

information and get rolling…your body and mind will thank you!

Kathy Grinde:Payroll Administrator, Capital Regional DistrictI have always loved riding my bike, �rst around the block, then to

school and now to work. I cycle a total of 14km to and from work

each day – in the morning, the commute takes about 20-25 minutes,

just enough of a work out to get me ‘up’ for the day at work. On the

way home it is quicker on my bike than driving my car or riding the

bus. Plus, I love the fact that it saves me hundreds of dollars in gas,

parking or bus fare. I also like the challenge of pushing myself to make that green light, to

make a better time, or increase my average speed on my speedometer

and, to see those calories I’ve burned! I don’t just ride my bike to

work…if I need something from the corner store, or I pop over to a

friend’s…I hop on my bike. I also like to spend a day cycling out to

Metchosin on the Goose, out to Sidney or along Dallas Road. It is a

lifestyle choice I have made for myself. Pos

ter P

eople

Bike to Work phone: 250.920.5775 website: biketowork.ca/victoria

All Events are FREE!

Got a question? Email us at: [email protected] or call us at: 250-920-5775

BTWW Poster, as front page of Times Colonist

four-page insert

2012 BTWW t-shirt

Social Media

12

• Celebration stations • Chance to win great prizes• Free food & beverages • Have fun & get in shape!

Call: 250.920.5775 Web: biketowork.ca/victoria

The Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society

13

••

••

Downloadable Countdown poster on BTWW website

Pre-BTWW ads ran in local publications: Douglas Magazine and YAM

Alan Perry, CFAX 1070interviews Mira Lawrence, CTV

29 21

Robert Mitchell On the Monday of my first Bike to Work Week (probably 1997) I was hooked. I realized that cycling to work was just as fast as driving and that I had finally found the time to exercise. It was warm and clear that morning so I didn’t need rain gear, and off I went. I arrived at work invigorated and quite pleased with myself – fully 20 minutes early, with lots of time to cool down and change into the suit and tie I had taken to work the day before. Riding home that afternoon

I took an alternate route along quieter streets, and again arrived much earlier than I expected. On the way, when stopped at intersections and chatting with other cyclists, I felt an immediate camaraderie with my new community. Many had been doing this for years, some had started during Bike To Work Week a year or two earlier and some, like me, were beginners, drawn in by the BTWW promotional campaign.

Since that day I have become a seasoned cyclist. I sold my car about five years ago and I now have two bikes: a hybrid and a road bike. As well as getting around town by bike I have joined a bike group and I cycle recre-ationally. I am sure that I’m fitter at 60 that I was at 45. I own all the right wet weather gear and I cycle year-round. After even the most gruelling day at the office, nothing makes the transition from work to home like a nice bike ride.

I have discovered many other benefits, not least the positive impact on the environment. I contribute far less oil and rubber runoff into creeks and the ocean than I used to, and of course my carbon footprint is much smaller. Cycling is also far less expensive than driving. My cost to own, maintain, repair, and actually ride a bike are all much, much cheaper. When transportation by bike just isn’t possible I take the bus or a taxi, or I rent a car. I will one day join Victoria Car Share – still far less expensive than owning a car.

Finally, I’ve become somewhat of an activist. I believe cycling can be safer and more appealing than it is. I think that motorists and cyclists alike would benefit from some education to remind each to be more mindful of the other. I am pleased to see cyclists with lights at night (white on the front, red on the back) and frustrated when I see a cyclist, young or old, without a helmet. Most of all, I’d like to see more and better bike routes in and around Victoria, but I am confident that will happen the more cyclists there are in the Region.

Ryan Clarke I’ve been commuting on-and-off since University – roughly 15 years now, with many other competing commitments in life.

But regardless of the distance, season or available time in my schedule, I always gravitate back to a routine that includes some riding to work. It wakes me up in the morning, clears my head in the afternoons, and keeps me motivated to be active on days when I probably

wouldn’t bother. But most importantly, it burns those precious few extra calories I need to justify a muffin with my coffee or that second helping of dessert.

14

COMMUTER TESTIMONIALS

For 18 years Team Leaders have been the champions of Bike to Work Week. Here are some testimonials from new riders.

Monique Goffinet Miller I ride my bike every day, to work and back, rain or shine, and I love the benefits I get from it. I have a clearer mind when I arrive after a groggy start, with no caffeine side effects. I listen to the birds singing without the sound of an engine drowning out my senses. After a long day at work I get to decompress on my way home and I don’t pollute the environ-ment. I took the car to work one day and realized the other benefits: no parking costs, and by the time I found parking

and walked to work from the lot I had saved only one minute of my cycling commute time. I’ll take the extra minute to commute by bike if it means my heart is healthier and I can tack on a couple more quali-ty minutes to my life.

Dottie Wieclawska I bought my bike and started riding in hopes of exploring The Galloping Goose Trail and seeing Victoria in a different light – I felt like I was missing out on a whole world of possibilities.

After getting more comfortable on the bike I explored beyond the trails and started riding to work, but only occa-sionally, and a small fall scared me off completely. I joined Bike to Work Week

in hopes of getting back on the bike full time, especially since I really enjoy the fresh air and health benefits of being active.

15

LARRY PFISTER

Upon returning to the city of my birth in 2009 after a thirty-year absence, I became enthralled by the explosion of cyclists on city streets. In 2010, Bike to Work Week Victoria was seeking volunteer photographers. I suggested video, shot ten stations over four days, put together a number of short videos and a great relationship was born.

My need for cutting edge hardware was fulfilled thanks to a new generation of simply stunning cycles on the streets, but the people were something else again. From the folks who run the show to the volunteers, sponsors, and participants, Bike to Work Week people are the best! A good deal of my work since can be traced directly back to my involvement, as the movers and shakers who abound at Bike to Work Week read like a Who’s Who of the lower island. It’s such a positive event to be associated with. I urge everyone to support it any way you can.

This city and this event are leading the way to the future, a fun, positive future with Bike to Work Week at the forefront.

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BIKE SKILLS COURSES

In 1999 Bike to Work Victoria developed the compre-hensive one-day Bike Skills Course with the goal of reducing barriers to cycling to work. Since that time, over 2000 Greater Victoria residents have been trained.

Designed for participants aged 18 and over, the Bike to Work Skills Course takes participants through all of the most common traffic situations a cyclist may face. It also provides the tips needed to make cycle commuting a fun and regular part of a person’s life.

Combining classroom and on-road training, Skills Courses build traffic cycling proficiency for adults who want to ride to work. Taught by nationally certified cycling instructors, the 7.5 hour course comprises in-class and on-road training, with an easy-paced 12 km route.

Most students are amazed at how much they didn’t know about cycling safely in traffic. Over 95% report that they feel more confident about being able to commute by bicycle after taking the course. Partic-ipants often speak of an increased appreciation for proper communication and respect between car drivers and cyclists. Above and beyond improving their cycling abilities, students often feel that the course has made them better and safer motor vehicle operators.

Participants learn to: • Plan cycling routes • Maneuver a bike effectively • Choose proper equipment and clothing • Be prepared to ride at night and in the rain • Ride comfortably and safely in heavy traffic • Fit a bike properly and complete a bike safety check

This year was a year of renewal as we put 12 people through the CanBike 2 Course, some of whom went on to take our Instructor’s Course for the one day Bike to Work Skills Course. We now have four people mentoring to teach our course. This will enable us to offer more courses during our peak seasons of Spring and Fall. In addition we are planning on expanding our Kid’s Safe Cycling Course up to Cowichan this Spring.www.biketowork.ca/victoria/workshops

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BIKE SKILLS COURSES TESTIMONIALS

“I feel that this course should be mandatory for everyone who rides a bike. I watch cyclists every day making very poor choices when riding and ....if they only knew the rules! I am now very confident while on the roads and respectful of all others that I am sharing the road with. I make eye contact, I use my hand signals and I obey the rules of the road. Thank you so much for putting on this course...I’ve been riding every day since and it has definitely enhanced my life.”

“I feel more confident in knowing what I should be doing in different scenarios and know my rights as a cyclist. I feel more comfortable and more in control. I believe everyone who cycles should take this course to be a better cyclist. It was a very valuable course and I wish I had taken in sooner. I learned so much from the one day. Thank you!”

“Much more comfortable in traffic, and a more confi-dent cycler generally, which gives drivers more confi-dence that you’re not going to do something stupid. As a driver, I found I became much more conscious of cyclists, so my driving has also improved.Like a light bulb. Thank you!”

“I really appreciated this course!! The classroom work, group ride/skills portion, and the literature to take home had a BIG impact on my confidence to ride my bike, and my desire to ride. It has made me a safer rider.”

“The Bike to Work Skills Course increased my cycling confidence and skills by affirming my right to be on the road.”

“If I hadn’t taken this course, there is very little likeli-hood that I would now be biking around the streets of downtown Victoria. Taking this course completely opened up my biking world; until I took the course, I pretty much restricted myself to local trails and usually walked my bike to the start of the trail...which could be a walk of almost 20 minutes! I now even go grocery shopping on my bike which seems some-what miraculous given I didn’t own a bike or ride one in the 35 years before I took this course.”

“The instructors were excellent and guided and encouraged us during the road trip. I definitely have more confidence and understanding of my rights and responsibilities on the road. My comfort level has been raised.”

“Previously - I was a cheeky cyclist - taking short cuts, riding crosswalks, jumping sidewalks - the works. I now have an appreciation for the importance of predictability. Every driver or rider on the road has the responsibility to make predictable movements. As a result, the scary interactions that I thought came part and parcel with urban cycling, have reduced by 90%. I know the enemy - and the enemy was my cycling behaviour!”i

“Basically, I felt I learned a lot and it was very ben-eficial, I would recommend it to everyone! A great course, thanks to all of you for putting it on! More cyclists should take it!”

“The instructors were excellent and guided and encouraged us during the road trip. I definitely have more confidence and understanding of my rights and responsibilities on the road. My comfort level has been raised.”

“The Bike to Work course has actually impacted by life on a daily basis. What I previously thought unimaginable, I know do everyday: bike to work! I regret not biking to work for the last 5 years! I also feel somewhat comfortable on the Johnson Street bridge. I hope that our bicycling associations continue to push the city for more bike friendly options over the bridge.”

“This is an excellent course - particularly for nervous riders. I discovered I wasn’t alone. I also sorted through where I need to be on my guard and when. I can relax a bit more. First class instruction too in a really supportive way. Well done!”

“I am much more aware as a car driver. As a cyclist, eye contact with car driver is so important. I think EVERYONE should take the course!”

Bike Skills Courses Sponsors

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CORPORATE SPONSORS

1918

City of Langford

City of Colwood

Pixelart Computers

Royal Roads University

District of Highlands

District of Metchosin

Town of Sidney

Platinum Level

Gold Level

Silver Level

Bronze Level

Contributor Level

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Sustainer Level

Builder Level

Booster Level

Promoter Level

Contributor Level

Feel Good YogaBicycleitisLifeStyle MarketsMarket on YatesOttavio Italian BakeryPodium Sports Bar and Grill

Alley Kat SignsArbonne Independent ConsultantBC FerriesBritish Columbia Aviation MuseumChronicle BooksCinecenta UVic theatreCity of Victoria RecreationFlowers to YouFloyd’s DinnerIl TerazzoIMAX Theatre

M&M MeatsMarriott HotelMoksana Yoga StudioOak Bay RecPanago PizzaPlanet OrganicPrincess Mary CaféRecyclistasSaanich RecSauce RestaurantSilk Road

Sports RentVictoria Healing CentreVictoria RoyalsWestern Canada Wilderness CommitteeWild Play AdventuresXocai Healthy ChocolateSea Cider Farm andCiderhouseWannawafel

Broadstreet

COMMUNITY SPONSORS

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BIKE TO WORK DAY

Bike to Work Day was held on Wednesday, October 3rd. a brilliantly sunny day as it turned out. Both morning and afternoon celebration stations(at UVic and the Switch Bridge) were well attended.

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

In the mid 1990’s, Ted Jones, my banker at the time, spoke to me about joining the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society Board that had just been formed. As a commuting cyclist be-fore cycling to work was considered in vogue, I was interested in the efforts being made to engage employers and employ-ees in the Bike to Work concept. As a chair of the Chamber of Commerce Environment and Transportation Committees the possible connection was obvious.

Well here we are at the 18th year of the Bike to Work Week event. As someone who has had the pleasure of participating in every one since joining the board I am particularly proud of this achievement. I can remember when we did not have any significant facilities to encourage cycling, and as we built up the demand more and more the local governments paid attention to cycling needs by adding bike lanes, parking facilities and the fabulous Galloping Goose and Lockside Trails. Today you will likely spot cyclists at every stoplight, filing up bike racks outside any business, and riding the roads and trails all over the Capital Region. The designation of Victoria as the Cycling Capital of Canada is clearly deserved.

My thanks to all those hard working employees and employers who have joined the Bike to Work movement over the past 18 years. Our success is proven by the increasing numbers of cy-clists commuting to and from work year round. You will notice the many times when there are more cyclists than cars traveling across the old Johnson Street Bridge. The Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails now need to be widened in places because of the congestion. For me this is a pure definition of success.

As with any organization, success does not just happen. It takes a great deal of effort behind the scenes. Frank Hudson and his team of Marsha, Claire, Lisa, and Stephanie have been among the best we have had over the years. To our wonderful volunteers and sponsors, thank you. We could not possibly do this without you.

Finally, I must say congratulations to all of my fellow board members. Your commitment and lead-ership gives this organization the foundation to carry on.

Thank you

Rob Wickson

What a week! The 18th annual Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week (actually a week and a half) saw 660 teams, comprising over 7,000 cyclists, including almost 900 new riders ride over 327,000 kilome-tres. Participants spared the environment the equivalent of 76,000 kg of CO2 emissions during the week.

Greater Victoria accounted for almost 40% of all cyclists who took part in Bike to Work Week activities in 26 communities throughout BC this year, confirming Victoria as the cycling capital of not only British Columbia, but of Canada too!

For the second year in a row, the Commuter Challenge was held the week prior to Bike to Work Week. This event proves that there is little difference in travelling times whether the commute is in a car or on a bicycle, with cyclists winning 15 of 20 challenges. I’m sure that several participants will be back again next year for rubber matches!

New this year was having the TELUS family support our organi-zation as part of their annual day of giving. On Saturday May 26, TELUS organized two special Bike to Work Stations. We were very fortunate to have David Foster visit the Switch Bridge station and stay for the better part of an hour.

With the support of our incredible sponsors, we were able to provide over $15,000 in food and refreshments, and award over $35,000 in prizes to participants! Thanks also go to the many volunteers who donate their time to the week’s success including team leaders, set up and take down crews, and those who operate the stations.

Special thanks to the dynamic duo of Claire Clarke and Lisa Hobden who did a superb job of taking care of all the little details of event and prize coordination, to Stephanie Johnson for her web and mentoring skills, and Marsha Petty-Johnson for her overall guidance (even though she was in Hawaii during the actual week). We had some minor glitches, but all in all, these four women were integral to putting on the best organized Bike to Work Week yet.

Planning for Bike to Work Week 2013 is well under way. We will be making improvements

based on the 2012 experience and the tremendous feedback we have received from participants, volunteers and sponsors, and from the many team leaders who took the time to complete this year’s Bike to Work Week follow-up survey. I look forward to working with all of you in the coming

months as we build on the success of the previous 18 years to make

the 2013 Bike to Work Week the best ever!

Frank Hudson

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MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF MEDICAL HEALTH

OFFICER

Richard S. Stanwick MD, MSc, FRCP(C), FAAP

Chief Medical Health Officer Vancouver Island Health Authority

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“Cycling to and from work is a great way to benefit both your health and the environment. The benefits of incorporating cycling into your daily routine include weight control, a healthy heart and a sharper mind, and reducing the carbon footprint. On a community level, the reduction in ill health and utilization of fu-ture medical services resulting from this activity is a positive step towards maintaining a sustainable health care system.”

Celebration StationJubilee Hospital

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Bike to Work Week Victoria is produced by theGreater Victoria Bike to Work Society staff and volunteers.

Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society

Statement of Revenue and Expenses (cash only)

For the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012

Income

Bike to Work Week 103,366$

Bike Skills Courses 7,630

Other donations 6,111

Misc 437

117,544

Direct Expenses

Bike to Work Week 56,222


66,646

Gross Revenue 50,898$

Administrative Expenses

Contractors 42,680

Rent 6,720

Telephone/Internet 2,170

Office supplies 2,153

Computer 1,500

Website 410

Bank Charges 184

Accounting 672

Postage 157

Misc 409

57,054

Surplus/Deficit 6,156-$

2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week



Income

Sponsorship 88,149

T-shirt sales 15,217

103,366

Direct Expenses

Salaries 22,002

Coordinator 12,860

T-shirt purchases 11,493

Food & Beverage 1,734

Sponsor Recognition 1,788

Tents, permits, misc 1,040

Team Leader Kits 1,389

Printing 1,117

Transportation 1,078

TELUS Day of Giving 1,721

56,222

Net Program Revenue 47,145$

Bike Skills Courses



Income

Skills Course fees 4,630

Can-Bike 2 course fees 3,000

Other donations

7,630

Direct Expenses

Instructors fees 5,675

Coordinator 3,516

Course materials 1,049

Miscellaneous 185

-

10,425

Net Program Revenue 2,795-$

Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society



Income

Bike to Work Week 103,366$


Other donations 6,111

Misc 437

117,544

Direct Expenses

Bike to Work Week 56,222


66,646

Gross Revenue 50,898$

Administrative Expenses

Contractors 42,680

Rent 6,720

Telephone/Internet 2,170

Office supplies 2,153

Computer 1,500

Website 410

Bank Charges 184

Accounting 672

Postage 157

Misc 409

57,054

Surplus/Deficit 6,156-$

2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week



Income

Sponsorship 88,149

T-shirt sales 15,217

103,366

Direct Expenses

Salaries 22,002

Coordinator 12,860

T-shirt purchases 11,493

Food & Beverage 1,734

Sponsor Recognition 1,788

Tents, permits, misc 1,040

Team Leader Kits 1,389

Printing 1,117

Transportation 1,078

TELUS Day of Giving 1,721

56,222

Net Program Revenue 47,145$

Bike Skills Courses



Income

Skills Course fees 4,630

Can-Bike 2 course fees 3,000

Other donations

7,630

Direct Expenses

Instructors fees 5,675

Coordinator 3,516

Course materials 1,049

Miscellaneous 185

-

10,425

Net Program Revenue 2,795-$

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BTWW Sponsors 2012 Funds

Cash In-Kind

2013 Ask

Cash In-Kind Municipalities City of Victoria 2,500 500 2,500 500 District of Saanich 4,500 4,500 District of Oak Bay 2,000 2,000 Township of Esquimalt 1,500 1,500 Town of Sidney 500 500 Town of View Royal 1,000 1,000 City of Langford 1,250 2,500 City of Colwood 1,250 2,500 Highlands 250 500 Metchosin 200 500 Sooke 0 500 Central Saanich 0 500 Capital Regional District 4,000 4,000 BC Government 26,700 30,000 BC Gaming 0 25,000 Educational Institutions University of Victoria 8,000 8,000 2013 confirmed

Royal Roads University 1,000 1,000 Camosun College 3,000 3,000 Corporate/Business Vancity 3,000 5,000 Old Victoria Water 3,000 AstraZeneca 1,000 1,000 Booster Juice 4,500 2,500 4,500 2,500 Dockside Green 3,000 3,000 Genumark 7,000 7,000 TELUS 7,000 10,000

Design 2 Graphics 15,000 15,000 Uptown 12,000 12,000

Oak Bay Bike Store 2,000 1000 2,250 750 Russ Hay’s Bikes 1,500 1,500 2,250 750 Tire Stewardship BC 6,000 6,000 1,000 EDS-Advanced Solutions 1,000 1,000 VIHA 1,000 2,500 1,000 2,500 Acheson, Whitley, Sweeney 500 1,000 MEC 2,000 1,000 2,500 500 Blue Horizon Cycling Tours 6,000 6,000 Starbucks Coffee 3,500 3,500 Cobs Bread 6,000 6,000

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Media Times Colonist 6,000 6,000 CTV News (formerly /A\ Channel) 61,000 61,000 C-Fax 1017 & KOOL FM 6,000 6,000 Douglas Magazine 3,000 3,000

Additional In-Kind (prizes, food, labour, etc.)

68,300

61,300

Cash 88,150 130,000 Total In-Kind 204,800 195,300

Total Cash and In-Kind $282,950 $325,300

Notes:

1. A complete list of 2012 Bike to Work Week cash and in-kind sponsors can be found on pages 18,

19, 20 and 21 of the accompanying 2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week Yearbook.

2. Additional income is derived through t-shirt sales, and Bike Skills course fees and sponsorships.

3. To date, only the University of Victoria has confirmed sponsorship ($8,000) for the 2013 Bike to

Work Week. This is normal as most asks are made during the months of January and February in

the year of the event. The deadline for confirmation of corporate sponsorships (cash) is March 31st

as logos have to be printed on t-shirts and posters in time for the mid-April event launch date.

november 14, 2013 mayor carol hamilton

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