RDEK releases Columbia Valley active transportation survey results

The Regional District of East Kootenay is releasing data from its survey on active transportaion in the Columbia Valley.

The RDEK says the questionnaire drew more than 330 participants who shared their views on current active transportation infrastructure and areas for improvements in the future.

Survey data shows nearly half of those who responded utilize local active transportation networks every day, while 51 per cent indicate they mostly use the infrastructure for walking and 39 per cent for cycling.

Meanwhile, 52 per cent of respondents would like to see an electric mobility sharing program in the Columbia Valley to provide access to electric scooters or E-bikes.

View a summary of the survey here, see a statement from the Regional District of East Kootenay below:

The Regional District of East Kootenay has just released the results of its Columbia Valley Active Transportation initial public survey.

In total, over 330 people responded to the survey sharing a range of views on current active transportation and ideas for the future. “This public survey was an important part of the planning process as residents have the most knowledge on how current routes are functioning and what areas may need improvement, so it was great to see such strong engagement,” says RDEK Planner Krista Gilbert. “The input we received will be compiled with other public feedback and will help inform development of the plan.”

The survey results can now be viewed on the project page at engage.rdek.bc.ca/ActiveTransportationCV or by reaching out to the Regional District of East Kootenay at 1-888-478-7335.

Public engagement will be ongoing throughout the planning process, including an Open House in that was held in Brisco in late November. Regular updates can be found on the project page or by reaching out to Gilbert at 250-489-0314.

The goal of the Columbia Valley Active Transportation Plan is to identify potential connections and development of a key trail corridor to connect the communities of the Columbia Valley for a cohesive active transportation network. A draft plan is expected to be shared with the public for review and comment in 2024.

– Article includes information and data supplied by Regional District of East Kootenay