Coquitlam cyclists can choose their route on the go with a new interactive regional bike map on the CoquitlamConnect app.
COQUITLAM, B.C., Nov. 29, 2021 – Coquitlam cyclists can choose their route on the go with a new interactive regional bike map on the CoquitlamConnect app.
In November, Coquitlam updated CoquitlamConnect – available free through the App Store and Google Play – with a map of cycling routes in Coquitlam and throughout Metro Vancouver. The $20,000 project was funded through Coquitlam’s Community Support and Recovery Plan (CSRP), the City’s dedicated pandemic-relief fund, to provide more opportunities for residents to enjoy safe and healthy outdoor activities.
Maps on the App
The new map makes use of cycling route data from Metro Vancouver municipalities that was collected by TransLink and HUB Cycling, a non-profit advocacy group. The map’s interactive features allow cyclists to filter routes based on their skill levels as well as whether the routes are off-street, on-street or on a major street. This digital map augments existing cycling map handouts, allowing for a more accessible and up-to-date digital option.
The bike map is the latest upgrade to CoquitlamConnect, which provides users with access to information about City services, facilities, events, public Wi-Fi hotspots, jobs, citizen input opportunities and more while linking to the City’s social media channels, website and online registration.
The map is a valuable resource as the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for the City to invest in cycling infrastructure, education and promotion due to a surge in popularity. To build on this momentum, City staff are exploring more cost-effective and quickly deployable ways to fill gaps in its cycling and micromobility (i.e. bicycles and scooters) network.
Other Supports for Cyclists
The interactive route map is just one of several initiatives the City has undertaken this year to address active transportation needs, including those of cyclists.
For example, as part of the City-Wide Parking Review that began in 2020, the City has recently adopted bylaw amendments to promote the use of bicycle for travel. The amendments include increased numbers of bike parking spaces and new bicycle maintenance and end-of-trip facilities in new buildings. The changes will encourage and make it easier for future residents and commercial office users to travel by bike.
In addition, the City is closely examining the role of micromobility — the use of light transportation modes such bikes and scooters, both human-powered and electric-assist — as part of its Strategic Transportation Plan given that the demand for these forms of transportation is growing rapidly.
Bike to Shop and Learn2Bike
Promotion of cycling is also key, and two Coquitlam neighbourhoods — Austin Heights and City Centre — took part in HUB Cycling’s Bike to Shop campaign, which encourages residents to explore local businesses by bike, attracting them with promotional discounts for cyclist patrons.
Additionally, during the 2021 and 2022 school year, the City will be piloting a Learn2Ride program, an in-class and practical instructional course for Grades 4 and 5 students. Ten elementary schools will participate in this pilot with the first five – Baker Drive, Bramblewood, Eagle Ridge, Porter Street and Rochester – to be completed in fall 2021. The remaining schools – Alderson, RC MacDonald, Harbour View, Leigh, and Lord Baden Powell – are planned for spring 2022. Similar programs have been implemented in several Lower Mainland municipalities and helped foster safe bike riding skills amongst young children.
For more information about CoquitlamConnect, its features and app store links, visit www.coquitlam.ca/coquitlamconnect. For more information on cycling in Coquitlam, visit www.coquitlam.ca/cycling.
Media contacts:
CoquitlamConnect App
Danny Bandiera
Manager Information & Communication Technology
604-927-3601
dbandiera@coquitlam.ca
Cycling and Micromobility
Dragana Mitic
Manager Transportation
604-927-4303
dmitic@coquitlam.ca