Barrie cyclists have been handed an early Christmas present from the province.
The city is among 120 Ontario municipalities to receive funding from the province for new bike lanes and other cycling infrastructure.
Barrie is getting $1,013,539 to enhance its existing bike lanes.
"We’re thrilled to receive this funding from the Province. This funding will help to improve our cycling network in Barrie, making it easier for residents to commute by bicycle," said Kelly Oakley, Manager of Corporate Asset Management
Barrie already has 16 kms of bike lanes on both sides of the road and 8 kms of roads with sharrow markings on both sides.
The investment is part of Ontario's Climate Change Action Plan and is funded by proceeds from the province's cap on pollution and carbon market.
Barrie's specific plans for more bike lanes have yet to be confirmed.
"The specific details of which project(s) the City will implement with the grant, will need to be reviewed to align with the results of the grant application. Staff will make a recommendation through the 2018 Business Plan staff report in this regard," said Oakley.
"Projects could include construction of cycling infrastructure, like bike lanes or sharrows, route signage, or bike lockers."
The province is investing $93 million this year, more than doubling the initial $42.5 million announced earlier this year.
"Cycling is a convenient and sustainable way to get around and that is why we are committed to building more cycling infrastructure to make it easier for people to bike. Our government looks forward to continue working with our partners and the cycling community to ensure we create a safe and integrated cycling network," said Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca.
Here are the amounts given in our region:
Barrie - $1,013,539
Collingwood - $133,082
Innisfil - $137,994
Orillia - $298,396
Penetanguishene - $25,000
Ramara - $25,000
Wasaga Beach - $100,234
