Most AT related infrastructure development happens within municipalities, where people live. Numerous municipal governments across the province have now initiated planning processes to aid in AT support. These early AT plans, focusing on healthy community design, retrofitting for supportive infrastructure, education programs, and supportive policy development will be models for other municipalities to follow.
Municipalities also have the ability to control bi-laws. Some bi-laws are restrictive to AT modes (particularly around sidewalk use), but some municipalities are taking steps to amend or create bi-laws that support AT choices, particularly for young people.
Established an AT committee consisting of municipal and non-government parties and have hired consultants to develop policy recommendations. The work of the At plan hinges on external funding and the projects will be completed in stages. Many of the projects listed below will be partnerships with Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP):
HRM's Active Transportation Plan has been completed with implemention underway. the vision is an exciting one: "to create a well-connected, safe, and functional active transportation network, which will take into account all origin and desinattion trips, utilizing non-motorized modes of transportation."
Colchester Recreation Services promotes physical activity initiatives, including trail use and AT, throughout Colchester County on an on-going basis. Click the title for further information.
Hired an active communities coordinator, are hard at work on their first Bikeways Destination Work Plan, and are investigating how to connect their towns and major employers through an AT corridor.
Developed the Chester Connection trail, a 35 km multi-use trail that traverses the municipality from Martin's River to east River, and joins two other trails in the region. The Municipality of the District of Chester has also developed an Active Living Strategy with AT playing a significant role. In addition, their new Intergrated Community Sustainability Plan addresses AT as an importatn element for the Municipality. An internal AT commitee is being formed.
Completion of a constructed wetland for the tertiary treatment of municipal sewage and a circumferential walking trail to link points cultural, historical and natural interest within the town. This integrated system which connects with the Trans Canada Trail, provides habitatfor a variety of waterfowl and other wildlife, and opportunities for cinservation, ecotourism, nature education, and outdoor recreation. Inaddition, the town's primary residential and school-zone sidewalk, on upper George Street, is designated as a "shared use" sidewalk, with the rule that "cyclists must give way to pedestrians." The shared-use allowance includes skateboarding.
Created an AT committee of community professionals and volunteers dedicated to raising the profile of AT and increasing supports for AT in Yarmouth County.
