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VICTORIA – Communities across B.C. are now eligible to access the new $40-million LocalMotion Fund, which will help build cycling and pedestrian pathways, improve safety and accessibility, and support children’s activity programs in playgrounds, Community Services Minister Ida Chong has announced.
“We’re committed to helping local governments create healthy, vibrant and environmentally sustainable communities for their residents,” said Chong. “This money will provide for a wide array of exciting projects that will encourage more British Columbians to get outside, become more active and make B.C. an even better place to live.”
LocalMotion will provide $40 million, over four years, for capital
projects that improve physical fitness and safety, reduce air pollution and
meet the diverse needs of British Columbians including seniors, young families
and people with disabilities. Under the cost-share program, the Province will
provide 50 per cent of the funding for approved projects, up to $1 million per
year.
“Walking and cycling are viable forms of
transportation that make a positive difference in our communities,” said
Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon. “Getting more people out of their cars
and moving on their own steam means healthier British Columbians, a cleaner
environment, and reduced congestion on our roads.”
LocalMotion is one element of the
Green Cities Project, introduced this fall by Premier Gordon Campbell, which
also includes a new Green City Awards
program, to be launched in the new year; new financial incentives to help local
governments shift to hybrid vehicle fleets and help retrofit diesel vehicles;
and a commitment to make new investments in expanded rapid transit, support for
fuel cell vehicles and other innovations in the next fiscal year.
Communities can learn more about LocalMotion and apply for funding, by
visiting www.localmotion.gov.bc.ca
online. To be considered for the first round of project approvals, applications
must be submitted by February 16, 2007. Successful projects will be announced
in spring 2007.
LocalMotion is one of three new programs, announced by the Premier at the 2006 Union of B.C. Municipalities annual conference, which began accepting applications today. Also launched are the Towns for Tomorrow program providing infrastructure funding for B.C.’s smaller communities and B.C. Spirit Squares, aimed at creating or enhancing outdoor public celebration spaces.
Each of these programs builds on
B.C.’s Pacific Leadership Agenda and supports ActNow BC, a provincewide health promotion initiative focused
on encouraging British Columbians to live
healthier lives by being more physically active.
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contact: |
Ministry of Community Services 250 356-6334 |
Ministry of Transportation 250 387-7787 |
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For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca. |
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