Saturday, May 29, 2010

Boldly getting us to where NO OTHER MP has taken us before!

In good company, getting it done!
Thanks to the efforts of MP Mike Wallace, the government department that owns the liftbridge (Public Works Government Services Canada - PWGSC) will study the cost of adding a lakeside multipurpose path on the bridge.  The  lakeside path will make it safer to cross at the liftbridge, eliminating the need to use the too narrow current path.
An accident waiting to happen!

PWGSC has stated that the required over haul of the bridge mechanics and electronics must be completed before the path.  As a taxpayer, it makes sense to complete the 2 projects at the same time.

The multipurpose path is an investment.  Based on statistics from the Niagara Region & health data, the investment will be paid back in as few as 2-3 years in tourism dollars, health benefits from active living, improved quality of life and a better environment.  All this and increased safety!

Thanks Mike!  Make it so!

PS:  If PWGSC receives funding & decides to do both projects at the same time, we  are talking 2013 at the earliest.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Cycling weekend kickoff!!!! The bell's on us.

A reminder of a few great events this weekend for cyclists & cycling families.

1. Lids for Kids  Burlington Mall  Sat. May 29  9am until noon.
The Burlington Mall has donated the bike helmets, the Halton Regional Police will fit them on the kids, adjusting the straps so the helmet is snug and protective!  There will also be a bike rodeo.  The Burlington Cycling Committee will be installing the mandatory bike bells.  A bike mechanic will also be available to check brakes, seat height & other small mechanical issues.  ITS FREE!  Hope to see you there.
 PS: you can be fined $85 if your bike doesn't have a working bell!

2. Brian Smith Scholarship Ride Sun. May 30  Beach Parking Lot A
A memorial ride to raise funds for a Nelson High School scholarship honoring the memory of Brian Smith, a former physics/math teacher and mentor at Nelson High School who passed away unexpectedly in August 2008. He was a positive influence on hundreds of students and friends.
41K to Grimsby, 75km to Prudhommes, 140km to Niagara on the Lake - provided you cycle back!  For details & sign up check out the site at Second Wind conditioning
3.  Weekly Group Bike Ride by Nancy Hastings have begun!
These weekly group rides are geared to novice riders who have an interest in triathlon and road riding. • Depart 6pm • Every Thursday from May 13 to August 26,2010- 16 weeks • Timing of ride from 1 ½ to 2 hrs • Average speed 24-30km per hour • Requirements: road bike, sunglasses, helmet ,water bottle, spare tube ,bike pump and cell phone.  Again at Second Wind for details.
4.  Waterfront Trail Leisure Company - your downtown Burlington bike haven.
Its OPEN FOR BUSINESS.  They even have tandems so you can go for that waterfront ride with your sweetie!!  Check it out!
5. MEC Bike Fest Sun. June 6, Spenser Smith Park - all day
Along with fun and festivities, MEC Bikefest is a hub of knowledge where cyclists new and old can make connections and get the information they need to pursue their passion. Come and check out cycling vendors and advocacy groups onsite, join a group ride, or hunt for treasure across downtown Burlington.  Details MEC.