DELTA’S TRAILS TO BENEFIT FROM PROVINCIAL FUNDING

DELTA – The Province is investing over $185,000 to help construct the Nordel Way Cycle Path, supporting a greener, and more connected community, announced Dave S. Hayer, Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism and Immigration and Surrey-Tynehead MLA, on behalf of Community Development Minister Blair Lekstrom.

“Delta is committed to developing alternative transportation opportunities for its citizens,” said Hayer. “This funding is part of a larger plan to link this part of Delta with other Lower Mainland communities, ultimately getting residents to use alternative forms of transportation, and improving air quality and recreational options.”

The project consists of two sections:

· $83,750 in LocalMotion funding to construct a four-metre-wide multi-use pathway along the south side of the Nordel Way corridor from 112^th Street to Shepherd Way.

· $101,500 in Bike BC funding to continue the separated bike path along Nordel Way between 116^th Street and 112^th Street.

Once completed, the cycle path will provide an uninterrupted multi-use pathway parallel to Nordel Way from 120^th Street to Shepherd Way. Delta’s plans for future years include extending this pathway to provide a link from 120^th Street (Surrey/Delta boundary) to the Alex Fraser Bridge, as well as linking with a proposed greenway connecting to other parts of Metro Vancouver.

“We already urge residents to use alternative transportation modes, and have developed an extensive multi-use network,” said Delta Mayor Lois E. Jackson. “With this funding, we can build on our existing trails, expanding Delta’s walking and cycling infrastructure to the benefit of residents and visitors alike.”

LocalMotion is investing $40 million over four years to help municipalities build bike paths, walkways, greenways, support community playgrounds and improved accessibility for people with disabilities. The funding supports capital projects, and is based on a 50/50 cost share with the municipality.

Bike BC is the Province’s new three-year, $31-million program for cycling infrastructure. Through Bike BC, the Province will partner with communities to fund a variety of cycling projects, including the creation of safe and high-quality cycling corridors, improvements to existing cycling infrastructure and other equipment that makes cycling a safer and more convenient option for travellers.

These projects build on other provincial funding going to Delta, including recent announcements of $250,000 in provincial funding through the B.C. Spirit Squares program for an outdoor celebration space, and nearly $8 million in Traffic Fine Revenue Share funding since 2004.

For more information on LocalMotion and links to other local government supports, visit www.localmotion.gov.bc.ca.

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Media contact:	Marc Black Ministry of Community Development 250 387-4089

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