CHILLIWACK– NDP MLAs Kelli Paddon and Dan Coulter say people in Chilliwack will soon benefit from better active transportation infrastructure that will safely connect neighbourhoods to parks, schools, and town centres. 

“I’m excited that soon we’ll be able to enjoy a smoother bike ride or walk along Chilliwack River Road,” said Kelli Paddon, MLA for Chilliwack-Kent. “This project, in partnership with the Tzeachten First Nation, will make connecting to neighbourhoods and amenities easier and more pleasant for people both who live here and who visit.” 

Chilliwack is receiving $1 million in cost-shared funding to build a multi-use pathway along the Chilliwack River Road for the Chilliwack River Road Pedestrian and Cycling Improvements project. 

“Investing in safer pedestrian and cycling paths is a great way to make our communities more enjoyable, environmentally sound and affordable,” said Dan Coulter, MLA for Chilliwack. “Our government knows that improving local transport networks and making them more accessible is a great way to maximize quality of life.” 

The community is one of 33 Indigenous and local governments across the province receiving funding for shovel-ready projects that will increase the number of people walking and cycling as well as improve the safety of vulnerable road users. The projects are aligned with provincial priorities to enhance community connectivity, accessibility, tourism, and climate change mitigation.

Making active transportation more accessible for people is central to Move. Commute. Connect., B.C.’s comprehensive strategy to make local transportation safer, greener, and more accessible for all British Columbians. $36 million is committed to this program over the next three years, with nearly $12.7 million in Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants being awarded in 2021.