Dec. 18, 2006
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.
