Peel to develop active transportation plan

Physical and environmental health issues are important to Canadians. Physical health can prolong the life of citizens, and environmental health can ensure that generations of Canadians will prosper in their surroundings. The Region of Peel is aiming to improve physical and environmental health for residents through its Active Transportation Plan.

Active Transportation, by definition, is any form of self-propelled (e.g. nonmotorized) mode of transportation that uses human energy, such as walking, cycling or inline skating.

"We're committed to a safe, convenient, multimodal transportation system that will support a vibrant economy, respect the natural and urban environments and meet the diverse needs of residents," said Nick Tunnacliffe, commissioner of planning. "Active Transportation in Peel can reduce road infrastructure needs, as well as health care, fuel and environmental costs."

The Cities of Brampton and Mississauga, the Town of Caledon and the Region will work collaboratively to develop a Regional Active Transportation Plan and strategy to address a variety of issues for Peel, including:

- Accommodation of bicycle facilities on Regional corridors.

- Connections between area municipal bicycle networks.

- Co-ordination of improvements by area municipalities and the Region.

- Development of consistent standards across the entire Region of Peel.

- Community outreach, education and promotion.

- Definition and clarification of the Region's role in active transportation.

"I truly believe that we can increase the levels of Active Transportation in Peel, and it will improve our quality of life," said Brampton Mayor Susan Fennell, chair of the Region's planning committee. "One half of all trips made by Peel residents are less than six kilometres, which is a short bike ride. By providing better facilities for walking and cycling for trips of any length, we can reduce our dependence on vehicles, which will reduce harmful emissions and improve the health of our residents."

"Studies have shown that walking at least an hour a day is beneficial to one's health, even if it's in five or 10 minute increments," said Dr. David Mowat, Peel's medical officer of health. "We can also promote Active Transportation with our children - something as simple as walking or biking to school, if possible - to ensure that they are also getting adequate exercise."