November 14, 2013 Mayor Carol Hamilton City of Colwood 3300 Wishart Road Victoria, BC V9C 1R1 Dear Mayor Hamilton and Council: With the support of the City of Colwood and several other municipalities, including Langford, Metchosin, the Highlands and View Royal, the 2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week enjoyed a highly successful campaign with over 7,400 participants and 660 workplace teams taking part. These participants, including 880 new riders, cycled over 327,000 kilometres during Bike to Work Week, sparing the environment the equivalent of over 76,000 kg of CO2 emissions. In 2013 we are aiming for 7,500 (+) participants while again increasing the profile of Bike to Work Week within communities throughout Greater Victoria. The 2012 BTWW campaign focused on increasing ridership in the Westshore, and for the first time had financial support from all Westshore Communities, except Sooke. Of note, the participation of City of Colwood residents increased from 3.9% in 2011 to 5.1% in 2012. We are writing to request the City of Colwood’s support for the 2013 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week event, by approving a grant in the amount of $2,500. This funding will be used to help offset the costs of planning station logistics, training volunteers, marketing Bike to Work Week throughout the communities of Colwood and Greater Victoria, and conducting one Bike Skills Course for City of Colwood staff and residents. Supporting Bike to Work Week provides a significant array of benefits both to the City of Colwood and the community at large, including assisting Colwood in achieving its vision to be: “The first energy positive, carbon neutral, water smart, green learning city in Canada”. Other compelling benefits include: � Supporting individuals to choose an active, environmentally sustainable transportation mode
which provides health and air quality benefits � Emphasizing value-based business practices that support community health and liveability
and contribute to higher rates of employee retention � Delivering healthy, productive employees and community leaders to their places of work � Reducing congestion load during peak commuting hours and reducing/delaying costs
associated with expanding and repairing roadways Why Bike to Work Week works according to survey respondents:
• Community involvement; to be part of something exciting & successful • Celebration stations, prizes, camaraderie • Hype, Media Promotion/Coverage • Provides excellent resources and support that assists people to organize their
workplaces • It is a FUN way to try a sustainable transportation option
Please find attached our 2013 grant application, our 2012 yearbook, 2012 financial statements, 2013 budget, and an overview of the Bike Skills Course. Your support and endorsement will be greatly appreciated and will be recognized in all BTWW promotions. We will once again locate a celebration station within Colwood for the benefit of your employees and the multitude of bike commuters who live in and travel through the City of Colwood. Sincerely,
Frank Hudson, Executive Director Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society
GRANT APPLICATON GRA-A 001 Page 1 of 3
City of Colwood
2013 GRANT APPLICATION GRA-A 001
Organization: Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society
Contact Name: Frank Hudson, Executive Director
Mailing Address: Box 8837, Victoria, BC V8W 3S3
Phone: 250 920-5775 Fax: 250 920-5773 Email: [email protected]
Amount requested: $2,500.00 Total Project Budget: $330,000 (cash and in-kind)
Have you applied before: Yes/No If yes, Date: January 3, 2012 Amount: $2,500
Did you receive the grant applied for: Yes/No For the amount of ($1,250)
Does your organization receive a Property Tax Exemption in the City: Yes/No
Incorporation number and date of incorporation: S 37679, December 3, 1997
Registered Canadian Charitable Organizations number: n/a
Concisely describe your organization, its mandate and program(s):
Through innovation, education and research, the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society
provides leadership in the promotion of commuter cycling and cycling skills
development throughout Greater Victoria.
Bike to Work Week is an annual week-long event that promotes commuter cycling as a
reasonable and feasible transportation option, and encourages health promoting
practices that benefit individuals and the larger community. The event is free to all
participants and includes residents from all economical spectrums. Greater Victoria
Bike to Work Week has celebration stations at various locations throughout Greater
Victoria which include refreshments, bike safety checks and first-aid, prize draws and
local media. A celebration station is planned to be located in Colwood on the Galloping
Goose Trail (at the Aldeane station across from Royal Roads) as was done in 2012.
The station was held near the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre in years prior to last
year. Team leaders (located in workplaces throughout Greater Victoria) register a team
from their workplace and recruit people to get involved. The event creates a fun,
community focused activity that promotes health and wellness.
GRANT APPLICATON GRA-A 001 Page 2 of 3
To ensure participants cycle safely, the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society hosts a
series of Bike Skills Courses both leading up to and following Bike to Work Week.
Concisely describe the project for which the funds are being sought. Please indicate
why you think it should receive municipal funding. Feel free to use additional sheets of
paper.
The funds being requested will be used to assist with poster development and printing,
participant kits (material and map printing), celebration station organization, and
conducting one bike skills course for City of Colwood staff and residents (maximum
twelve participants). See attached skills course description.
Purpose of this Project: To encourage people to try commuter cycling and to encourage
adoption of cycling as a lifestyle choice. This provides benefits to the larger community
including decreased traffic congestion, increased use of sustainable transportation
options, greater availability of parking, improved individual health and reinforcing the
City of Colwood status as “The first energy positive, carbon neutral, water smart, green
learning city in Canada”.
Date and Place of Project: The 2013 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week event is being
held May 27th through June 2nd. Celebration stations will be located throughout
Greater Victoria including Colwood.
Describe the benefit to Colwood: Sponsorship of Bike to Work Week provides many
long-term benefits to the City of Colwood and our larger community:
Supporting a shift towards a sustainable and active transportation choices
Emphasizing values-based business practices that support community health
and livability and contribute to higher rates of employee retention
Acknowledges, connects, and expands a network of citizens involved in healthy
and sustainable transportation efforts
Delivering healthy, productive employees and community leaders to their places
of work
Reducing congestion load during peak commuting hours and reducing/delaying
costs associated with expanding and repairing roadways
In 2012, the number of participants from the City of Colwood increased from 3.9% in 2011 to 5.1%. Our survey results indicated that those communities that support Bike to Work Week have an increased uptake by residents. Celebration Station throughout the communities increase the uptake by creating the feeling of Community by being involved in something exciting & successful.
GRANT APPLICATON GRA-A 001 Page 3 of 3
Budget Information Requirement
Please attach details of the project budget and clearly identify estimated revenues and
expenditures and all other sources of funding ant the status of this funding (i.e. secure
or speculative).
Please enclose your last annual report and financial statements, if applicable. Please
include any supporting material that would assist the City in assessing your funding
request.
Application Deadline: November 15 of the year preceding the year funding is
being requested
Authorized Signature: Date: November 14, 2012
Please email or hand-deliver the full grant request application to:
Jennifer Reed, Acting Director of Finance
City of Colwood
3300 Wishart Road, Victoria BC V9C 1R1
P: 250-478-5999 E: [email protected]
Policy GRA-A 001 Adopted by Council: 2009-11-23
21Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society’s Yearbook
May 28th - June 3rd 2012
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 .............................................. History, philosophy, format, program, people – Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society
2-3.......................................... Board members, staff, Bike Skills course instructors
4-5 ......................................... Facts and figures
6 .............................................. Launch
7 .............................................. Telus Day of Giving
8-9 ......................................... Commuter Challenge
10-11 ..................................... The week in review
12-13 ..................................... Promotion
14-15 ..................................... Testimonials
16-17 ..................................... Bike Skills Courses
18-21 .................................... Sponsors
22 ........................................... Bike to Work Day
23 ........................................... Messages from the President and the Executive Director
24 ........................................... Message from the Chief Medical Health Officer
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
HISTORY Bike to Work Week (BTWW) began in 1995 with a core group of commuter cyclists who felt that commuting by bike was intrinsically attractive to those already doing it, and wanted to interest more people in the activity. The first year was supported by the former Ministry of Government Services, with government employees as the target audience.
The non-profit Greater Victoria Bike to Work (GVBTW) Society was formed in 1997, and the event has seen substantial growth since then, from approximately 50 teams and 500 partic-ipants in 1997 to 660 teams and over 7,000 participants in 2021.
By getting people to try commuting by bike for a week in an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie, BTWW helps people to become regular cycle commuters. Experience shows that people rarely move in a single step from never cycling to work, to regular commuting. Rather, it is a process in stages of behaviour modification, illustrated in the diagram shown on page five.
Our key measure of success is the number of new cyclists who take part each year: each year at least 10% of BTWW participants are new riders – a large factor in renewal and growth. If we can get someone to try cycling for just one week and make it a positive expe-rience, this will profoundly alter their personal sense of its long-term feasibility. Big changes towards this lifestyle shift begin with small steps and small success stories/experiences facilitated by this powerful yearly event!
Bike to Work Week depends on two key components: the Program and the People to make the event a success year after year.
• Accessibility: Not only is the event free, simple steps for participation and extensive resources to facilitate participation are made available.
• Visibility: A rigorous PR campaign accompanies each event.
• Education: Bike Skills courses are offered spring through fall and participants have opportunities to access free bike check-ups and advice from local bike shop professionals.
• Celebration: BTWW is comprised of daily events, (Celebration Stations) at locations throughout Greater Victoria, offering participants the opportunity to meet, celebrate their accomplishments, mutually motivate and benefit from lots of prizes and other incentives.
• Volunteers: The event depends on a large network of volunteers who help with set up, take down, and operation of stations, while also encouraging their peers who stop by.
• Team leaders: These are our workplace champions who help organize, motivate and encourage their coworkers.
• Community partners: Local businesses and municipalities provide not only the funds to make the event happen, but also the food, beverages, prizes and bicycle tune-ups which incentivize participation.
• Our enthusiastic participants: The resounding response from the community year after year demonstrates the Society’s “raison d’être”.
THE FORMAT
THE PROGRAM
THE PEOPLE
Opening of the Six Mile Bridge, 1997Left to right: Francis van Loon, then President of the GVCC, Andrew Petter, then BC Attorney General, Moe Sihota, then Esquimalt MLA
1997 t-shirt
29 21
GVBTW BOARD
Vice PresidentLori Garcia-MeredithLighting Consultant Healthy Green Buildings
left: David CubberleyConsultantMomentum Consulting
middle: Dean DuthieSergeant, Saanich Police
right: Ian GraemeManager, Watershed Sustainability BC Ministry of Environment
2
Secretary/Treasurer
Ted JonesOwner and Mortgage Broker
IslandPro Mortgage Corp.
left: John LutonBike, pedestrian and transit advocate Transportation Consultant
middle: Linda Saunders Marketing Consultant(Retired)
right: Rosemary SuttonOperations ManagerTire Stewardship BC
left: Hu WallisMinistry of Environment(Retired)
middle: Sarah WebbClimate Action Coordinator Capital Regional District
right: Kryn ZedelTimes Colonist Circulation Sales
Andrew CrippsDirector, Tripos Consulting
PresidentRob Wickson
Partner Discovery Economic
Consulting
Marsha Petty-JohnsonBike to Work Week and
Skills Course Coordinator
Anke van Leeuwen
Executive DirectorFrank Hudson
Lisa HobdenBike to Work Week Coordinator
Arlene SkagfeldPatrick O’Connor
Claire ClarkeBike to Work Week Coordinator
3
GVBTW STAFF
BIKE SKILLS COURSE INSTRUCTORS
29 21
FACTS & FIGURES
Yearly number of participating new cyclists Greater Victoria
1998
600
800
1,000
1,200
400
200
0
Year 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Yearly number of teams participating Greater Victoria
1998
600
400
200
0
Year 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
660 teams, and over 7,000 cyclists (including 880 ‘newbies’) took part in this year’s event, almost doubling participation since 2003.
Surveys indicate the following:• 55% male• 45% female (national average: 24% female)• 75% aged 35 - 59 years• majority are professionals who choose to cycle for fitness/lifestyle reasons.
4
• Partners with employers• Sponsors courses• Trains instructors
Frequent cycle commuter. Benefits reinforce habit. Champions activity to others
Enlists them as champions
• Reinforces direction of change• Provides skills training• Hosts workshops
Rides more andextends seasonDevelops skills
and confidenceInternalizes choice
Helps them acquire thehabit
• Makes it fun, easy and accessible• Adds prizes and recognizes effort• Models feasibility
Alters perceptions& attitudes Likes benefits wants tocontinue Lapses
tries againnext year
Invitesthem totry it now
Responds to appealWeighs pros
and cons Influenced by peers
• Sponsors teams• Promotes benefits• Mobilizes opinion leaders
Bringsoption toworkplace
Stages of behavioural change: Adopting commuter cycling as a life-style choice
• Creates community presence • Raises visibility, awareness & status • Readies some to begin considering
Option not on radar screen...
Thinking about it...
Tries it during BTWW...
Aquires the habit...
Adopts it aslife-style choice
Public unawareand indifferent
Content with status quo 42% ride at
times for recreation
Puts choicein front of public
Bike to Work Week: Impact on the change process...
1998Year 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Total number of participating cyclists Greater Victoria
6,000
7,000
8,000
5,000
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
5
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The BTWW Launch Event was held on April 16th at Victoria City Hall. Team leaders and other Bike to Work participants mingled with local politicians and media reps while enjoying sandwiches,Cobs baked goods, Booster Juice smoothies, Starbucks coffee and Old Victoria water.
Denise Savoie Victoria MP,selects her T-shirt
left: Mayor Dean FortinCity of Victoria
below: Bike to Work Weekposter people:Kathy Grinde Payroll Administrator, Capital Regional DistrictTodd JohnstonEnvironmental Science OfficerCapital Regional District
below right: Jack KnoxColumnist, Victoria Times Colonistand Erin Glazier, CTV news
below left: Refreshment tableTodd Johnston On Saturday, May 26th, 2012, TELUS employees will
be giving back to the community and celebrating
Bike to Work Week. Bring your family, friends and bikes
and enjoy a free hot dog BBQ and great prizes at our
two Celebration Stations.
Saturday, May 26, 2012, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
■■ City Centre Park, 1089 Langford Pkwy
■■ Uptown Switch Bridge, 28 Crease Avenue
Every customer helps us give where we live.
Thank you.
Join us for a BBQ to celebrate
Bike to Work Week
Alan PerryCFAX 1070interviews David FosterDavid Foster Foundation
BTWW LAUNCH EVENT TELUS DAY OF GIVING
Two additional Celebration Stations promoting Bike to Work Week were enjoyed by hundreds of cyclists courtesy of TELUS team members, past and present, along with their families and friends as part of the TELUS Day of Giving.
Cyclists enjoyed the food and many give-aways and prizes from sponsors including an iPhone from TELUS.
7
29 21
COMMUTER CHALLENGE
The Commuter Challenge was held one week in advance of Bike to Work Week. 20 teams set off from the Uptown Shopping Centre and other area locations (including Langford) and ‘raced’ to the finish at Starbucks, Fort and Blanshard. As in other years, bicycles won handily, with a final tally of: Bikes 15, Cars 5.
8
Todd JohnstonEnvironmental Science Officer
Capital Regional District
9
Lana PophamMLA Saanich SouthOpposition Agricultural Critic
above, left: Les Leyne, Columnist, Victoria Times Colonistright: Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation below, left: Jack Knox, Columnist, Victoria Times Colonistright: Cst. Niki Hodgkinson, Saanich Police
left:Mira Lawrence
CTV
middle: Hudson Mack
News Anchor CTV
Vancouver Island
right:Erin Glazier
CTV
StarbucksFort and Blanshard
29 21
THE WEEK IN REVIEW
Celebration stations:1 Selkirk Trestle South 2 Selkirk Trestle North3 Dockside Green4 Victoria City Hall
1
3
2
10
1
4
Celebration stations:1 VGH Chancellor Park2 Victoria Central Library3 UVic Fountain4 Oak Bay Municipal Hall 5 Saanich Municipal Hall
2
3
5
11
4
1 2
4
29 21
PROMOTION
The Main Events!
Bike to Work May 28th.-June 3rd.
On Saturday, May 26th, 2012, TELUS employees will
be giving back to the community and celebrating
Bike to Work Week. Bring your family, friends and bikes and enjoy a free hot dog BBQ and great prizes at our
two Celebration Stations.
Saturday, May 26, 2012, 11:00 am – 3:00 pmCity Centre Park, 1089 Langford Pkwy
Uptown Switch Bridge, 28 Crease Avenue
Every customer helps us give where we live.
Thank you.
Join us for a BBQ to celebrate
Bike to Work WeekCommuter Challenge – THE THRILLING CAR vs. BIKE RACEWednesday May 23, 7:00 - 9:00 am. Challenge participants will be arriving at the finish line between 7:45 and 8:15 am. Join us at Starbucks 1099 Blanshard Street at Fort. Register your team online or send an email to [email protected]. All you need is a starting point, a car and a bike! Free give-aways from BCAA and Tire Stewardship BC. RUSS HAY’s Bike Shop will provide bicycle first aid to those who need it! As part of the Commuter Challenge several high profile challengers will be taking part in the UPTOWN to DOWNTOWN Challenge, starting at the UPTOWN Centre between 7:30 - 8:00 am! The UPTOWN Centre starting line is on the Boulevard at Uptown.
Free Downtown Commuter Bike Parking Tuesday April 17 - Friday June 1, 2012The Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society, together with Broad Street Cycles, has opened a secure bicycle parking location as part of an ongoing commitment to promote sustainable transportation options within Greater Victoria. Located at 1419 Broad Street, the facility provides a safe and convenient place for commuter cyclists to store their bikes. “Establishing bicycle parking in a downtown Victoria location aims to remove barriers for commuter cyclists and enhances opportunities for residents to try cycling to work for the first time,” said Frank Hudson, Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society Executive Director. The new parking facility is open for public use from April 17 until June 1, 2012.
TELUS Day of Giving - Saturday, May 26, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm. The seventh annual TELUS Day of Giving will take place across Canada. On this special day, TELUS employees will be giving back to the community through the celebration of commuter cycling! Two special Celebration Station barbeques will be set up, one at City Centre Park and the other at the Uptown Switch Bridge.
This event is also sponsored in part by -
Trailside Kick-Off! – Monday May 28, 6:45 - 8:45 am, South end of the Selkirk Trestle. Join us for fresh coffee from STARBUCKS , fresh juice from BOOSTER JUICE, fresh baked goods from COBS BREAD, and free give-aways from Tire Stewardship BC.
15 Celebration Stations in between the Trailside Kick-Off and Wrap up BBQ including a Celebration Station in Langford at Veteran’s Memorial Park – Thursday May 31, 3:30 - 5:30 pm.
Wrap up BBQ – Friday June 1, 3:00 - 6:00 pm, FREE! Join us at the North end of the Selkirk Trestle. Enjoy tasty meat and veggie burgers topped off with melted cheese generously supplied by our sponsor Save-On-Foods! Bring a friend, family or the whole workplace team. This final celebration is a fantastic ending to a tremendous week of events!
3
17
6
1
12
Galloping Goose Trail
Quadra St
Qua
dra
St
Sa anich
Ro
ad
Pat Bay H
wy.
UPTOWNMALL
ConnectorConnectorTrail
Yates
Monday May 28th Tuesday May 29th Wednesday May 30th Thursday May 31st Friday June 1st
2. Colwood-Royal Roads 3:30-5:30 pm3. Dockside Green 3:30-5:30 pm
6. Saanich Municipal Hall 3:30-5:30 pm7. Memorial Park 3:30-5:30 pm
4. UVic Fountain 7:30- 9:30 am5. VI Tech Park 6:45 - 8:45 am
1. Selkirk Trestle (South) Kick-o� for the week 6:45-8:45 am
17. Selkirk Trestle (North) Wrap-up BBQ 3:00-6:00 pm
16. Victoria City Hall 6:45-8:45 am
10. Oak Bay Municipal Hall 3:30-5:30 pm11. VGH Chancellor Park 3:30-5:30 pm
8. Victoria Library 6:45- 8:45 am9. Camosun Lansdowne Campus 7:30- 9:30 am
14. UVic Fountain 3:30-5:30 pm15. Veterans Memorial Park 3:30-5:30 pm
12. Blenkinsop Trestle 6:45- 8:45 am13. Royal Jubilee Hospital 6:45- 8:45 am
AM
PM
Celebration station dates and locator map
Event numbers ( above ) correspond to numbers on map, showing station locations. Please note: 9. Camosun Lansdowne Campus and 13. Royal Jubilee Hospital, are not shown on the map. Also, Langford City Centre Park is not shown.
PRE-EVENTS: Commuter Challenge: Wednesday, May 23, 7am - 9am., Starbucks, Blanshard at Fort. Downtown map below:1a
Greater Victoria
TELUS Day of GivingTM Sat. May 26, 11am - 3pm., at the Switch Bridge:1b and at City Centre Park in Langford
11
UVic
Cedar Hill Cross Rd.
McKenzie Ave
R
ing
Ro
ad
Finnerty
Rd.
fountain
VGH Chancellor Park
Esquimalt
7
Goldstream Ave
Old
Isla
nd
Aldeane Ave
Wale Road
Vete
rans
Mem
oria
l Par
kway
Gall oping Goose Trail
Galloping Goose Trail
Belmont Rd.
Hagel Rd.
Royal Roads University
Royal Colwood Golf Club
Colwood Lake
15
2
Hw
y.
Nob Hill Rd.
Kupe
r Ave
.
MillstreamCreek
Meaford Ave.
Langford / Colwood
144
Goldstream Ave.
Downtown
8
1a
TELUS Day of GivingTM
Two Pre-BTWW celebration
stations provided by-
Sat. May 26, 11am - 3pmat the Switch Bridge (1b)
& City Centre Park, Langford
1b
16
10
Oak Bay Municipal Hall
Bike to Work phone: 250.920.5775website: biketowork.ca/victoria
SPONSORED BY
Todd Johnston: Environmental Science O�cer, Capital Regional DistrictWhen I was a kid I rode everywhere on my bike and didn’t’ think twice
about distance or weather because there weren’t a lot of options! Like
many people, I started driving everywhere when I got my license and
promptly forgot about cycling. Luckily for me, the �nancial pressures
of student budgeting and Vancouver tra�c persuaded me to
re-acquaint with my love of the bicycle. That was 18 years ago and
I really can’t even begin to measure the positive bene�ts that it has had
on my health, pocket book, carbon footprint, and overall wellbeing.
When I moved to Victoria �ve years ago I was overjoyed with my
car-free commute on the Goose and all that the city o�ered the cyclist:
from mild winters to abundant cycling infrastructure - a virtual mecca
for the pedal powered! Bike to Work Week is the time to celebrate the
cycling community while supporting those who have been “out of the
saddle” to re-discover the joys of the ride! With the weather getting
nice again, I would encourage those who have contemplated bicycle
commuting to take advantage of the BTWW events, workshops and
information and get rolling…your body and mind will thank you!
Kathy Grinde:Payroll Administrator, Capital Regional DistrictI have always loved riding my bike, �rst around the block, then to
school and now to work. I cycle a total of 14km to and from work
each day – in the morning, the commute takes about 20-25 minutes,
just enough of a work out to get me ‘up’ for the day at work. On the
way home it is quicker on my bike than driving my car or riding the
bus. Plus, I love the fact that it saves me hundreds of dollars in gas,
parking or bus fare. I also like the challenge of pushing myself to make that green light, to
make a better time, or increase my average speed on my speedometer
and, to see those calories I’ve burned! I don’t just ride my bike to
work…if I need something from the corner store, or I pop over to a
friend’s…I hop on my bike. I also like to spend a day cycling out to
Metchosin on the Goose, out to Sidney or along Dallas Road. It is a
lifestyle choice I have made for myself. Pos
ter P
eople
Bike to Work phone: 250.920.5775 website: biketowork.ca/victoria
All Events are FREE!
Got a question? Email us at: [email protected] or call us at: 250-920-5775
BTWW Poster, as front page of Times Colonist
four-page insert
2012 BTWW t-shirt
Social Media
12
• Celebration stations • Chance to win great prizes• Free food & beverages • Have fun & get in shape!
Call: 250.920.5775 Web: biketowork.ca/victoria
The Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society
13
••
••
Downloadable Countdown poster on BTWW website
Pre-BTWW ads ran in local publications: Douglas Magazine and YAM
Alan Perry, CFAX 1070interviews Mira Lawrence, CTV
29 21
Robert Mitchell On the Monday of my first Bike to Work Week (probably 1997) I was hooked. I realized that cycling to work was just as fast as driving and that I had finally found the time to exercise. It was warm and clear that morning so I didn’t need rain gear, and off I went. I arrived at work invigorated and quite pleased with myself – fully 20 minutes early, with lots of time to cool down and change into the suit and tie I had taken to work the day before. Riding home that afternoon
I took an alternate route along quieter streets, and again arrived much earlier than I expected. On the way, when stopped at intersections and chatting with other cyclists, I felt an immediate camaraderie with my new community. Many had been doing this for years, some had started during Bike To Work Week a year or two earlier and some, like me, were beginners, drawn in by the BTWW promotional campaign.
Since that day I have become a seasoned cyclist. I sold my car about five years ago and I now have two bikes: a hybrid and a road bike. As well as getting around town by bike I have joined a bike group and I cycle recre-ationally. I am sure that I’m fitter at 60 that I was at 45. I own all the right wet weather gear and I cycle year-round. After even the most gruelling day at the office, nothing makes the transition from work to home like a nice bike ride.
I have discovered many other benefits, not least the positive impact on the environment. I contribute far less oil and rubber runoff into creeks and the ocean than I used to, and of course my carbon footprint is much smaller. Cycling is also far less expensive than driving. My cost to own, maintain, repair, and actually ride a bike are all much, much cheaper. When transportation by bike just isn’t possible I take the bus or a taxi, or I rent a car. I will one day join Victoria Car Share – still far less expensive than owning a car.
Finally, I’ve become somewhat of an activist. I believe cycling can be safer and more appealing than it is. I think that motorists and cyclists alike would benefit from some education to remind each to be more mindful of the other. I am pleased to see cyclists with lights at night (white on the front, red on the back) and frustrated when I see a cyclist, young or old, without a helmet. Most of all, I’d like to see more and better bike routes in and around Victoria, but I am confident that will happen the more cyclists there are in the Region.
Ryan Clarke I’ve been commuting on-and-off since University – roughly 15 years now, with many other competing commitments in life.
But regardless of the distance, season or available time in my schedule, I always gravitate back to a routine that includes some riding to work. It wakes me up in the morning, clears my head in the afternoons, and keeps me motivated to be active on days when I probably
wouldn’t bother. But most importantly, it burns those precious few extra calories I need to justify a muffin with my coffee or that second helping of dessert.
14
COMMUTER TESTIMONIALS
For 18 years Team Leaders have been the champions of Bike to Work Week. Here are some testimonials from new riders.
Monique Goffinet Miller I ride my bike every day, to work and back, rain or shine, and I love the benefits I get from it. I have a clearer mind when I arrive after a groggy start, with no caffeine side effects. I listen to the birds singing without the sound of an engine drowning out my senses. After a long day at work I get to decompress on my way home and I don’t pollute the environ-ment. I took the car to work one day and realized the other benefits: no parking costs, and by the time I found parking
and walked to work from the lot I had saved only one minute of my cycling commute time. I’ll take the extra minute to commute by bike if it means my heart is healthier and I can tack on a couple more quali-ty minutes to my life.
Dottie Wieclawska I bought my bike and started riding in hopes of exploring The Galloping Goose Trail and seeing Victoria in a different light – I felt like I was missing out on a whole world of possibilities.
After getting more comfortable on the bike I explored beyond the trails and started riding to work, but only occa-sionally, and a small fall scared me off completely. I joined Bike to Work Week
in hopes of getting back on the bike full time, especially since I really enjoy the fresh air and health benefits of being active.
15
LARRY PFISTER
Upon returning to the city of my birth in 2009 after a thirty-year absence, I became enthralled by the explosion of cyclists on city streets. In 2010, Bike to Work Week Victoria was seeking volunteer photographers. I suggested video, shot ten stations over four days, put together a number of short videos and a great relationship was born.
My need for cutting edge hardware was fulfilled thanks to a new generation of simply stunning cycles on the streets, but the people were something else again. From the folks who run the show to the volunteers, sponsors, and participants, Bike to Work Week people are the best! A good deal of my work since can be traced directly back to my involvement, as the movers and shakers who abound at Bike to Work Week read like a Who’s Who of the lower island. It’s such a positive event to be associated with. I urge everyone to support it any way you can.
This city and this event are leading the way to the future, a fun, positive future with Bike to Work Week at the forefront.
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BIKE SKILLS COURSES
In 1999 Bike to Work Victoria developed the compre-hensive one-day Bike Skills Course with the goal of reducing barriers to cycling to work. Since that time, over 2000 Greater Victoria residents have been trained.
Designed for participants aged 18 and over, the Bike to Work Skills Course takes participants through all of the most common traffic situations a cyclist may face. It also provides the tips needed to make cycle commuting a fun and regular part of a person’s life.
Combining classroom and on-road training, Skills Courses build traffic cycling proficiency for adults who want to ride to work. Taught by nationally certified cycling instructors, the 7.5 hour course comprises in-class and on-road training, with an easy-paced 12 km route.
Most students are amazed at how much they didn’t know about cycling safely in traffic. Over 95% report that they feel more confident about being able to commute by bicycle after taking the course. Partic-ipants often speak of an increased appreciation for proper communication and respect between car drivers and cyclists. Above and beyond improving their cycling abilities, students often feel that the course has made them better and safer motor vehicle operators.
Participants learn to: • Plan cycling routes • Maneuver a bike effectively • Choose proper equipment and clothing • Be prepared to ride at night and in the rain • Ride comfortably and safely in heavy traffic • Fit a bike properly and complete a bike safety check
This year was a year of renewal as we put 12 people through the CanBike 2 Course, some of whom went on to take our Instructor’s Course for the one day Bike to Work Skills Course. We now have four people mentoring to teach our course. This will enable us to offer more courses during our peak seasons of Spring and Fall. In addition we are planning on expanding our Kid’s Safe Cycling Course up to Cowichan this Spring.www.biketowork.ca/victoria/workshops
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BIKE SKILLS COURSES TESTIMONIALS
“I feel that this course should be mandatory for everyone who rides a bike. I watch cyclists every day making very poor choices when riding and ....if they only knew the rules! I am now very confident while on the roads and respectful of all others that I am sharing the road with. I make eye contact, I use my hand signals and I obey the rules of the road. Thank you so much for putting on this course...I’ve been riding every day since and it has definitely enhanced my life.”
“I feel more confident in knowing what I should be doing in different scenarios and know my rights as a cyclist. I feel more comfortable and more in control. I believe everyone who cycles should take this course to be a better cyclist. It was a very valuable course and I wish I had taken in sooner. I learned so much from the one day. Thank you!”
“Much more comfortable in traffic, and a more confi-dent cycler generally, which gives drivers more confi-dence that you’re not going to do something stupid. As a driver, I found I became much more conscious of cyclists, so my driving has also improved.Like a light bulb. Thank you!”
“I really appreciated this course!! The classroom work, group ride/skills portion, and the literature to take home had a BIG impact on my confidence to ride my bike, and my desire to ride. It has made me a safer rider.”
“The Bike to Work Skills Course increased my cycling confidence and skills by affirming my right to be on the road.”
“If I hadn’t taken this course, there is very little likeli-hood that I would now be biking around the streets of downtown Victoria. Taking this course completely opened up my biking world; until I took the course, I pretty much restricted myself to local trails and usually walked my bike to the start of the trail...which could be a walk of almost 20 minutes! I now even go grocery shopping on my bike which seems some-what miraculous given I didn’t own a bike or ride one in the 35 years before I took this course.”
“The instructors were excellent and guided and encouraged us during the road trip. I definitely have more confidence and understanding of my rights and responsibilities on the road. My comfort level has been raised.”
“Previously - I was a cheeky cyclist - taking short cuts, riding crosswalks, jumping sidewalks - the works. I now have an appreciation for the importance of predictability. Every driver or rider on the road has the responsibility to make predictable movements. As a result, the scary interactions that I thought came part and parcel with urban cycling, have reduced by 90%. I know the enemy - and the enemy was my cycling behaviour!”i
“Basically, I felt I learned a lot and it was very ben-eficial, I would recommend it to everyone! A great course, thanks to all of you for putting it on! More cyclists should take it!”
“The instructors were excellent and guided and encouraged us during the road trip. I definitely have more confidence and understanding of my rights and responsibilities on the road. My comfort level has been raised.”
“The Bike to Work course has actually impacted by life on a daily basis. What I previously thought unimaginable, I know do everyday: bike to work! I regret not biking to work for the last 5 years! I also feel somewhat comfortable on the Johnson Street bridge. I hope that our bicycling associations continue to push the city for more bike friendly options over the bridge.”
“This is an excellent course - particularly for nervous riders. I discovered I wasn’t alone. I also sorted through where I need to be on my guard and when. I can relax a bit more. First class instruction too in a really supportive way. Well done!”
“I am much more aware as a car driver. As a cyclist, eye contact with car driver is so important. I think EVERYONE should take the course!”
Bike Skills Courses Sponsors
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CORPORATE SPONSORS
1918
City of Langford
City of Colwood
Pixelart Computers
Royal Roads University
District of Highlands
District of Metchosin
Town of Sidney
Platinum Level
Gold Level
Silver Level
Bronze Level
Contributor Level
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Sustainer Level
Builder Level
Booster Level
Promoter Level
Contributor Level
Feel Good YogaBicycleitisLifeStyle MarketsMarket on YatesOttavio Italian BakeryPodium Sports Bar and Grill
Alley Kat SignsArbonne Independent ConsultantBC FerriesBritish Columbia Aviation MuseumChronicle BooksCinecenta UVic theatreCity of Victoria RecreationFlowers to YouFloyd’s DinnerIl TerazzoIMAX Theatre
M&M MeatsMarriott HotelMoksana Yoga StudioOak Bay RecPanago PizzaPlanet OrganicPrincess Mary CaféRecyclistasSaanich RecSauce RestaurantSilk Road
Sports RentVictoria Healing CentreVictoria RoyalsWestern Canada Wilderness CommitteeWild Play AdventuresXocai Healthy ChocolateSea Cider Farm andCiderhouseWannawafel
Broadstreet
COMMUNITY SPONSORS
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BIKE TO WORK DAY
Bike to Work Day was held on Wednesday, October 3rd. a brilliantly sunny day as it turned out. Both morning and afternoon celebration stations(at UVic and the Switch Bridge) were well attended.
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
In the mid 1990’s, Ted Jones, my banker at the time, spoke to me about joining the Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society Board that had just been formed. As a commuting cyclist be-fore cycling to work was considered in vogue, I was interested in the efforts being made to engage employers and employ-ees in the Bike to Work concept. As a chair of the Chamber of Commerce Environment and Transportation Committees the possible connection was obvious.
Well here we are at the 18th year of the Bike to Work Week event. As someone who has had the pleasure of participating in every one since joining the board I am particularly proud of this achievement. I can remember when we did not have any significant facilities to encourage cycling, and as we built up the demand more and more the local governments paid attention to cycling needs by adding bike lanes, parking facilities and the fabulous Galloping Goose and Lockside Trails. Today you will likely spot cyclists at every stoplight, filing up bike racks outside any business, and riding the roads and trails all over the Capital Region. The designation of Victoria as the Cycling Capital of Canada is clearly deserved.
My thanks to all those hard working employees and employers who have joined the Bike to Work movement over the past 18 years. Our success is proven by the increasing numbers of cy-clists commuting to and from work year round. You will notice the many times when there are more cyclists than cars traveling across the old Johnson Street Bridge. The Galloping Goose and Lochside Trails now need to be widened in places because of the congestion. For me this is a pure definition of success.
As with any organization, success does not just happen. It takes a great deal of effort behind the scenes. Frank Hudson and his team of Marsha, Claire, Lisa, and Stephanie have been among the best we have had over the years. To our wonderful volunteers and sponsors, thank you. We could not possibly do this without you.
Finally, I must say congratulations to all of my fellow board members. Your commitment and lead-ership gives this organization the foundation to carry on.
Thank you
Rob Wickson
What a week! The 18th annual Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week (actually a week and a half) saw 660 teams, comprising over 7,000 cyclists, including almost 900 new riders ride over 327,000 kilome-tres. Participants spared the environment the equivalent of 76,000 kg of CO2 emissions during the week.
Greater Victoria accounted for almost 40% of all cyclists who took part in Bike to Work Week activities in 26 communities throughout BC this year, confirming Victoria as the cycling capital of not only British Columbia, but of Canada too!
For the second year in a row, the Commuter Challenge was held the week prior to Bike to Work Week. This event proves that there is little difference in travelling times whether the commute is in a car or on a bicycle, with cyclists winning 15 of 20 challenges. I’m sure that several participants will be back again next year for rubber matches!
New this year was having the TELUS family support our organi-zation as part of their annual day of giving. On Saturday May 26, TELUS organized two special Bike to Work Stations. We were very fortunate to have David Foster visit the Switch Bridge station and stay for the better part of an hour.
With the support of our incredible sponsors, we were able to provide over $15,000 in food and refreshments, and award over $35,000 in prizes to participants! Thanks also go to the many volunteers who donate their time to the week’s success including team leaders, set up and take down crews, and those who operate the stations.
Special thanks to the dynamic duo of Claire Clarke and Lisa Hobden who did a superb job of taking care of all the little details of event and prize coordination, to Stephanie Johnson for her web and mentoring skills, and Marsha Petty-Johnson for her overall guidance (even though she was in Hawaii during the actual week). We had some minor glitches, but all in all, these four women were integral to putting on the best organized Bike to Work Week yet.
Planning for Bike to Work Week 2013 is well under way. We will be making improvements
based on the 2012 experience and the tremendous feedback we have received from participants, volunteers and sponsors, and from the many team leaders who took the time to complete this year’s Bike to Work Week follow-up survey. I look forward to working with all of you in the coming
months as we build on the success of the previous 18 years to make
the 2013 Bike to Work Week the best ever!
Frank Hudson
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MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF MEDICAL HEALTH
OFFICER
Richard S. Stanwick MD, MSc, FRCP(C), FAAP
Chief Medical Health Officer Vancouver Island Health Authority
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“Cycling to and from work is a great way to benefit both your health and the environment. The benefits of incorporating cycling into your daily routine include weight control, a healthy heart and a sharper mind, and reducing the carbon footprint. On a community level, the reduction in ill health and utilization of fu-ture medical services resulting from this activity is a positive step towards maintaining a sustainable health care system.”
Celebration StationJubilee Hospital
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Bike to Work Week Victoria is produced by theGreater Victoria Bike to Work Society staff and volunteers.
Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society
Statement of Revenue and Expenses (cash only)
For the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012
Income
Bike to Work Week 103,366$
Bike Skills Courses 7,630
Other donations 6,111
Misc 437
117,544
Direct Expenses
Bike to Work Week 56,222
Bike Skills Courses 10,425
66,646
Gross Revenue 50,898$
Administrative Expenses
Contractors 42,680
Rent 6,720
Telephone/Internet 2,170
Office supplies 2,153
Computer 1,500
Website 410
Bank Charges 184
Accounting 672
Postage 157
Misc 409
57,054
Surplus/Deficit 6,156-$
2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week
Statement of Revenue and Expenses (cash only)
For the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012
Income
Sponsorship 88,149
T-shirt sales 15,217
103,366
Direct Expenses
Salaries 22,002
Coordinator 12,860
T-shirt purchases 11,493
Food & Beverage 1,734
Sponsor Recognition 1,788
Tents, permits, misc 1,040
Team Leader Kits 1,389
Printing 1,117
Transportation 1,078
TELUS Day of Giving 1,721
56,222
Net Program Revenue 47,145$
Bike Skills Courses
Statement of Revenue and Expenses (cash only)
For the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012
Income
Skills Course fees 4,630
Can-Bike 2 course fees 3,000
Other donations
7,630
Direct Expenses
Instructors fees 5,675
Coordinator 3,516
Course materials 1,049
Miscellaneous 185
-
10,425
Net Program Revenue 2,795-$
Greater Victoria Bike to Work Society
Statement of Revenue and Expenses (cash only)
For the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012
Income
Bike to Work Week 103,366$
Bike Skills Courses 7,630
Other donations 6,111
Misc 437
117,544
Direct Expenses
Bike to Work Week 56,222
Bike Skills Courses 10,425
66,646
Gross Revenue 50,898$
Administrative Expenses
Contractors 42,680
Rent 6,720
Telephone/Internet 2,170
Office supplies 2,153
Computer 1,500
Website 410
Bank Charges 184
Accounting 672
Postage 157
Misc 409
57,054
Surplus/Deficit 6,156-$
2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week
Statement of Revenue and Expenses (cash only)
For the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012
Income
Sponsorship 88,149
T-shirt sales 15,217
103,366
Direct Expenses
Salaries 22,002
Coordinator 12,860
T-shirt purchases 11,493
Food & Beverage 1,734
Sponsor Recognition 1,788
Tents, permits, misc 1,040
Team Leader Kits 1,389
Printing 1,117
Transportation 1,078
TELUS Day of Giving 1,721
56,222
Net Program Revenue 47,145$
Bike Skills Courses
Statement of Revenue and Expenses (cash only)
For the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012
Income
Skills Course fees 4,630
Can-Bike 2 course fees 3,000
Other donations
7,630
Direct Expenses
Instructors fees 5,675
Coordinator 3,516
Course materials 1,049
Miscellaneous 185
-
10,425
Net Program Revenue 2,795-$
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BTWW Sponsors 2012 Funds
Cash In-Kind
2013 Ask
Cash In-Kind Municipalities City of Victoria 2,500 500 2,500 500 District of Saanich 4,500 4,500 District of Oak Bay 2,000 2,000 Township of Esquimalt 1,500 1,500 Town of Sidney 500 500 Town of View Royal 1,000 1,000 City of Langford 1,250 2,500 City of Colwood 1,250 2,500 Highlands 250 500 Metchosin 200 500 Sooke 0 500 Central Saanich 0 500 Capital Regional District 4,000 4,000 BC Government 26,700 30,000 BC Gaming 0 25,000 Educational Institutions University of Victoria 8,000 8,000 2013 confirmed
Royal Roads University 1,000 1,000 Camosun College 3,000 3,000 Corporate/Business Vancity 3,000 5,000 Old Victoria Water 3,000 AstraZeneca 1,000 1,000 Booster Juice 4,500 2,500 4,500 2,500 Dockside Green 3,000 3,000 Genumark 7,000 7,000 TELUS 7,000 10,000
Design 2 Graphics 15,000 15,000 Uptown 12,000 12,000
Oak Bay Bike Store 2,000 1000 2,250 750 Russ Hay’s Bikes 1,500 1,500 2,250 750 Tire Stewardship BC 6,000 6,000 1,000 EDS-Advanced Solutions 1,000 1,000 VIHA 1,000 2,500 1,000 2,500 Acheson, Whitley, Sweeney 500 1,000 MEC 2,000 1,000 2,500 500 Blue Horizon Cycling Tours 6,000 6,000 Starbucks Coffee 3,500 3,500 Cobs Bread 6,000 6,000
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Media Times Colonist 6,000 6,000 CTV News (formerly /A\ Channel) 61,000 61,000 C-Fax 1017 & KOOL FM 6,000 6,000 Douglas Magazine 3,000 3,000
Additional In-Kind (prizes, food, labour, etc.)
68,300
61,300
Cash 88,150 130,000 Total In-Kind 204,800 195,300
Total Cash and In-Kind $282,950 $325,300
Notes:
1. A complete list of 2012 Bike to Work Week cash and in-kind sponsors can be found on pages 18,
19, 20 and 21 of the accompanying 2012 Greater Victoria Bike to Work Week Yearbook.
2. Additional income is derived through t-shirt sales, and Bike Skills course fees and sponsorships.
3. To date, only the University of Victoria has confirmed sponsorship ($8,000) for the 2013 Bike to
Work Week. This is normal as most asks are made during the months of January and February in
the year of the event. The deadline for confirmation of corporate sponsorships (cash) is March 31st
as logos have to be printed on t-shirts and posters in time for the mid-April event launch date.