Review and evaluation of strategy behind bicycle transportation policy in Greater Vancouver

This thesis reviews the objectives of existing and proposed policies affecting bicycle transportation in the Greater Vancouver region and attempts to evaluate the level of success these policies will have in achieving these objectives. In the process, mechanisms for implementation will be considered as well as reaction to specific policies as indicated from survey results and discussions with bicycling advocates in this region. Many of the policies that will be effective, especially those at the regional level, are aimed at making long-distance bicycle trips a more viable option. It is argued that trips of greater distance will appeal mostly to experienced, well-conditioned bicyclists and that these policies will have limited effect in increasing the overall number of people using bicycles for transportation. In order to effectively address the issue of making bicycles a more viable mode of transportation, there first needs to be a change in the patterns of land use i n this region followed by the provision of incentives for changing attitudes about transportation modes. The needs and concerns of casual bicycle riders who usually use their bicycles only for recreational purposes must be addressed. Without a fundamental shift in the way in which land is used and developed in this region and an accompanying program to precipitate a shift in transportation behaviour, the effects of bicycle policies on their own will be token at best.Applied Science, Faculty ofCommunity and Regional Planning (SCARP), School ofGraduat