Cycling advisory committee established in London, Ont.

On Monday, members of the strategic priorities and policy committee of London, Ont., voted 11-4 in support of the creation of a cycling advisory committee (CAC). Citizens of the general public in attendance and some city councillors cheered when the result was announced.

Kevin Yaraskavitch, who was in the audience, stated afterwards that bicycle commuting is the best way to get around the city as it’s both timely and convenient. He was one of many who were happy with the creation of the CAC.

Gary Brown who represents London Cycle Link is happy with the decision to develop a cycling advisory committee as it was needed moving forward. He cites the structure of other successful North American cycling cities where an equivalent committee exists.

How this new committee will work with the existing master transportation plan is still unclear. According the Ward 8 councillor Paul Hubert, who is supportive of the CAC, the committee may create a division that could hinder cycling infrastructure development.

In 2014, the freshly established committee will meet for a brainstorming session to determine their primary projects and initial objectives.