Whereas according to CleanBCs Roadmap to 2030, transportation is our largest single source of greenhouse gas emissions GHG which accounts for approximately 40 of our annual total, and to address this the Province has committed to doubling the proportion of trips using active transportation by 2030; And whereas given the urgency of the climate crises, the fast-approaching 2030 deadline and the fact that safe active transportation infrastructure provides economically accessible transportation for more individuals of all ages and abilities, there is a pressing need for the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to provide stronger leadership, accountability, and equitable investment in infrastructure for all modes of transportation: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM request the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure to take on the responsibility for the development, operation and maintenance of all active transportation infrastructure within provincial highway rights of way to align with active transportation planning of Indigenous and local governments, thus ensuring equitable commitment to active transportation infrastructure commensurate with infrastructure focused on motor vehicles.
Ministry of Transportation and Transit The ministry works in partnership with Indigenous and local governments to support the development of active transportation infrastructure that reflects local priorities and conditions. Each community has unique needs that require a tailored approach, as such, the ministry works with local governments to find the best solution to their active transportation objectives. Through a variety of programs and resources, the ministry encourages the growth of active transportation networks that are safe, inclusive, and responsive to community needs. One of the key initiatives is an internal program that identifies opportunities to expand active transportation infrastructure on ministry rights-of-way. Since 2023, the Ministrys Active Transportation AT Capital Program is improving safety and connectivity for people walking, cycling, and rolling with projects that connect community active transportation infrastructure over and on ministry rights-of-way. The total budget for the AT Capital Program is 135 million over three years. In June 2024, the Province announced 11 projects under this program, representing an 85 million investment to build active transportation infrastructure on ministry-owned rights-of-way across the province. The BC Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program provides cost-sharing opportunities for Indigenous and local governments to develop and upgrade their own active transportation infrastructure. In 2022, the Province committed 60 million over three years to this program, increasing the annual allocation by 8 million. In 2025, over 24 million was committed to 62 infrastructure projects and active transportation network plans that align with the BC Active Transportation Design Guide.