NDP MLAs say pilot project will get more students walking or biking to Yennadon Elementary

MAPLE RIDGE – New Democrat MLAs Lisa Beare and Bob D’Eith say students at Yennadon Elementary will benefit from more exercise and fresh air thanks to the expansion of the Active School Travel pilot project. The project is designed to increase the number of students using active transportation during their daily commute to and from school.

“There is something so joyful about seeing a group of kids on their way to school, getting some fresh air,” said Lisa Beare, MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows. “Active transportation initiatives make our communities healthier, cleaner, and more fun for everyone.”

“Parents, kids, and educators will all benefit from this new and exciting commute at Yennadon Elementary. Our government’s CleanBC roadmap is preparing British Columbians for the future by investing in infrastructure that will make our lives better right now,” said Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission.

Yennadon Elementary is one of 12 new schools across B.C. that will be participating in the program this year. The program helps municipalities, school districts, and parents work together to plan walking and cycling improvements that meet the specific needs of students in the neighbourhood. Projects could include:

  • Holding regular encouragement events and incentives to increase regular walking and biking to school;
  • Mapping the best route for kids to get to school
  • Offering skill-building and safety education for students and parents;
  • Expanding slow street projects to reduce traffic volume around schools;
  • Shared bikes, scooters and skateboards for students; and
  • Improving infrastructure like bike racks and signage.

Participating schools can request up to $10,000 through the program to implement their projects, and will receive access to other capacity-building tools and resources. The outcomes from both years of the program will inform future initiatives to increase walking and cycling to school for students and their families.

The Province is investing $280,000 to expand the program this year, building on an initial investment of $400,000 in February 2021 to support program development and the initial participation of 11 schools that year.

The Active School Travel Pilot Program supports goals set out in the Province’s CleanBC Roadmap, as well as Move. Commute. Connect. – B.C.’s strategy for cleaner, more active transportation.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/26081

Learn more about the Active School Travel Pilot Program: http://bchealthycommunities.ca/active-school-travel/