Watch above: The city is asking cyclists, motorists and all Edmonton residents to think back to last winter. It has to do with the much-debated issue of bike routes and efforts to keep them clear. Vinesh Pratap reports.
EDMONTON – Thinking about winter may the last thing you want to do in August. But it’s what the city is asking of some residents — specifically those who live or travel along 106 Street, where a bike lane runs from 29 Avenue to Saskatchewan Drive.
Last season, a pilot project was underway along the route with the goal of maintaining a one-metre wide clear lane. The route was chosen because it covers a large area that runs through neighbourhoods, busy intersections, and commercial zones.
READ MORE: City planning to ‘winter proof’ contentious 106 Street bike lanes
Now, the city is asking for feedback on how it did, launching a survey on Tuesday. Officials are looking for input not only from cyclists, but from area residents and motorists as well.
The survey comes as the overall bike lane issue gets a makeover. The lanes have been a source of frustration for many, leading planners to go back to the drawing board.
Some, like Jordana Fair, feel the city could be doing more to make bike lanes accessible, regardless of the season.
“I don’t even feel like they exist in the winter,” said Fair, adding that she’d love to be able to cycle year-round in the city.
For Steve Bain, though, the issue comes down to whether a full clearing effort is the best use of resources.
“I don’t know how much it costs to keep it clean. For the amount that use it…I don’t know if the costs outweigh the rewards.”
Still, he thinks the city has been making an effort.
READ MORE: Edmonton community continues its fight against bike lanes
You can have your bike lane opinion heard by taking the survey here. It will be active until September 5.
– With files from Vinesh Pratap, Global News
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