A pedestrian overpass bridge across Highway 59 connects the Duff Roblin Parkway Trail to Birds Hill Provincial Park. Rural municipalities can apply for provincial government funding to accomplish similar projects. (STAN MILOSEVIC / CHRISD.CA FILE)
Manitoba municipalities are now eligible to apply for new provincial funding to improve local infrastructure designed to encourage people to use alternatives to motor vehicle transportation.
Municipalities and northern communities with populations of fewer than 50,000 residents can apply to the Active Transportation Fund. The funding is coming from the $1 million investment from the federal gas tax fund.
“People are becoming more health and environmentally conscious and are switching to public transportation, bicycles and walking,” said Ron Lemieux, Local Government Minister. “As these activities increase, people will see improved health benefits, lower transportation costs and fewer cars and trucks on the road. Reducing greenhouse-gas emissions is good for us and for our environment.”
Projects eligible for funding include bike racks/lockers, bike patches, sidewalks, lighting and signage on trails, sidewalks and bike patches, and plans to development future active transportation projects.
The announcement was made Tuesday at the Winnipeg Convention Centre where the Association of Manitoba Municipalities is holding their 14th annual convention until Thursday.
— Staff
