SUNDIAL BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN WHISTLER - PRESS RELEASES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE...Public interested in the future of bicycling in Whistler are invited to provide their input into three major plans at an open house Thursday, October 5, at Spruce Grove Field House.

Drafts of the Transportation Cycling Plan, Recreational Cycling Plan and the Cycling Trail Master Plan, developed by the Whistler Cycling Committee, are up for public review and input at the open house, which runs from 5 to 9 p.m. The plans will be modified according to the comments received before being finalized and implemented.

The Whistler Cycling Committee was formed in 2000 by council with a mandate to improve cycling in the community. Since then, they've completed surveys and a Council biking policy, in addition to trail standards that have been adopted by trail builders and communities across North America. They also created a planning process using the Whistler 2020 framework to develop the three draft plans. The committee is a multi-stakeholder group representing the variety of cycling interests in Whistler, including the Resort Municipality of Whistler, the Whistler Off-Road Cycling Association, Tourism Whistler, Whistler- Blackcomb, local bike shops, seniors and local riders.

The Transportation Cycling Plan looks at trips to specific destinations, such as to work, schools, parks and commercial centres. Whistler's network of transportation cycling routes is examined, including Highway 99, municipal roadways and the Valley Trail. The transportation plan also addresses end-of-trip facilities, connections to other transportation modes and community education and encouragement programs.

The Recreational Cycling Plan examines cycling trails, cycling tourism and economic development, services provided to cyclists and the needs of the local cycling community. It also incorporates a Cycling Trails Master Plan. This long-term plan for cycling trails will ensure that the riding needs of both residents and visitors are met, while protecting the ecological values of Whistler’s natural environment.

The cycling plans are driven by the community vision, priorities and strategies of Whistler 2020 – Moving Toward a Sustainable Future.