Elections
Hamilton's Cycling Master Plan has Council approval. However, the implementation timeline is very long and ward councillors can block individual bike lane projects. Do you support accelerating the completion of a continuous bicycle network and other initiatives like a bike sharing program and better access up and down the Escarpment? Why or why not?
Responses to the question: "Hamilton's Cycling Master Plan has Council approval. However, the implementation timeline is very long and ward councillors can block individual bike lane projects. Do you support accelerating the completion of a continuous bicycle network and other initiatives like a bike sharing program and better access up and down the Escarpment? Why or why not?"
In This Page:
69 Candidate Responses (top)
| Mayor | ||
|---|---|---|
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Baldasaro, Michael James | Yes | Yes, I support accelerating the completion of a continuous bicycle network and associated initiatives throughout the Greater Hamilton Area.
As bicycling has become more popular and with some, more necessary, to me, it is imperative that the bicycling network be completed as soon as possible. If elected Mayor I will work with the Councillors to get their acquiescence and approval for any bike trails that have been laid out. Bicycles are best ridden on trials and old rail lines. They make very usable bicycle and walking paths and are much safer than riding on the street. A cyclist can peddle up the escarpment behind the Chedoke Martin Golf Course and end up at Upper Paradise on Mount Forest. The reason I refer to the Hamilton Mountain as Mt. Forest is because Hamilton, and the Golden Horse Shoe surrounding it, is actually located at the foot of Mt. Forest. The Town of Mt. Forest, on #6 Hwy. North, is the highest elevation in Southern Ontario. It is near the top of an ancient mountain, better known today as the Hamilton Mountain, and we live at its foot. Lower Hamilton is approximately 350' above sea level "asl"; Upper Hamilton 600' asl; Guelph 1,000' asl; Fergus 1,380'; Mt. Forest, 1,560' asl. |
| Bratina, Bob | Yes | I believe Council has shown reasonable support for the Shifting Gears program. Ward Councillors have to respond to special circumstances that may occur in the routings through their neighbourhoods, so adjustments may be made from time to time. No Councillor should be able to arbitrarily "block" or otherwise defeat sections of the project. Yes to the acceleration of the continuous bicycle network, bike-sharing, and escarpment access. In fact I believe re-establishment of an incline railway should be considered as part of the cycling strategy. There are many who find an escarpment climb daunting. |
| Butani, Mahesh P. | Yes | I strongly support the need to develop a much quicker time-line for the phased-in master plan for cycling.
Introducing bike lanes is a design challenge more than a budgetary problem as it is being made out to be. The implementation of the bike lanes in our city presently suffers greatly from conventional thinking and a piecemeal approach. This has created more hazards for cyclists and auto drivers than it it offers alternative modes of commuting. Our current patch work of bike lanes exposes the half-hearted attempt in developing critically needed alternate transit solutions. The present approach has led to many misunderstandings of this critical mode of transit among many in our community, and instead of highlighting the many economic benefits in many urban areas of our city - in some cases, as on Dundurn Street South, its impact on merchants has been negative as reported, on account of them loosing kerbside parking. Our unique geography and landscape offers us a rare opportunity to avoid conventional and often harsh to use city bike lanes. Making creative use of low density roads, older neighbourhoods, historical locations, landmarks, amenities, back roads, nature trails, the escarpment, scenic routes and vistas -- to develop a contiguous and visually rich network of bike lanes across various neighbourhoods, would result in a very safe, appropriately paced and experientially rich biking experience in our city. While the current phasing in of bike lanes is underway -- it is critical that corresponding design enhancement to the lanes with high quality signage is also implemented in a very comprehensive manner - (ref: http://www.activelivingresources.org/assets/chicagosbikelanedesignguide.pdf ), along with concurrent community education outreach. This will not only enhance the groundwork already done to date, but also create a better appreciation of bike usage, respect for bike users, and a broader community acceptance of the underlying values that this mode of transit holds. With sophisticated design and rich user-experience oriented continuous lanes; high quality signage; comprehensive community educational outreach; and a well developed bike share program, our city can very quickly become the premier bike friendly city in the GTHA, with one of the most unconventional and visually stunning urban bike lane networks in the world. |
| Di Ianni, Larry | Yes | During my time as Mayor, several initiatives regarding cycling in our community took place, including a 2004 and 2006 Update on Cycling Infrastructure Initiatives and the West Hamilton Bicycle Network Review in 2006. I have always supported safe bike lanes, and I emphasize the word safe. Ever since I began riding my Vespa, I have viewed the necessity of road etiquette, safety and road infrastructure in a far more bike-friendly way. I support accelerating the completion of a continuous bicycle network in Hamilton. Other initiatives like a bike sharing program need further study and must consider the experiences of other municipalities who've implemented similar programs. |
| Eisenberger, Fred | Yes | We have already made good progress on the cycling front. Under my leadership as Mayor we implemented bike racks on buses, created more secure bicycle parking downtown, and included a velodrome as part of Hamilton's Pan Am Games participation. Implementing our Cycling Master Plan is a key element of my "Livable Streets" policy, which I announced during the Open Streets festival.
The Cycling Master Plan was updated under my leadership and it is crucial to take the next step and implement the Cycling Master Plan. Why? Because without an interconnected network of on-street and off-road bike routes, we simply can't achieve our transportation goals as a community. Implementing a bicycle sharing program sends a powerful message both inside and outside our community that we value bicycles as a practical form of urban transportation. Advance work is already being done by staff in the city's Smart Commute office. I support improving access up and down the Mountain. I want Hamilton to be a world leader in being a bicycle friendly city. |
| Filice, Pasquale | No | No, Must cut taxes, hydro, gas they are to expensive. You have to ask citizens, the counsil is there to serve. Its a great project, you have to prepare for investors to come, you must cut taxes also. |
| Graydon, Edward H.C. | Yes | I support the accelerated completion of the bike lanes and support the bicycle network that maybe in the works, but as a very competent biker and a true pioneer in this area, I will only support it if all cyclists get a licence and learn the rules of the road.
I believe that this is a great program, but also expect all those using the infrastructure to help pay the costs, I would suggest that a bike licence be issued to those people that take a safety course and all fines be strictly enforced for those that decide to not obey the road safety act. I believe that a car wins out every time. When an accident occurs, I want all precaution to be taken to insure the roads are safe to both car and cyclist. I know first hand the dangers of the road, and am lucky to have survived. It is for this reason that I ask that safety lessons be ensured before this is moved forward in hast. Teach each person safety lessons and pay a $75 yearly road maintenance fee and I will help to make it happen. |
| Haines, Andrew | Yes | Yes, I support accelerating the completion of a continuous bicycle network and other initiatives like a bike sharing program and better access up and down the Escarpment.
For the longest time, Brantford was the MOST bicycle-friendly City in Ontario while Hamilton was the most bicycle-UNfriendly City. In recent years, that has changed somewhat. Hamilton NEEDS to be extremely bicycle-friendly, as soon as possible. I ride a bicycle from time to time, and when I do, I marvel at how comparatively few injuries and fatalities are experienced by Hamilton cyclists. |
| Hamilton, Glenn | Yes | It helps to create healthier lifestyles, better safety, and reduced green house pollutants. |
| Leach, Ken | Yes | The Cycling Master Plan has my utmost approval. However, we not only need to move forward with this plan, we need to ensure that the end destination is determined. The long delays in the Transit Master Plan, combined with the uncertainty of the LRT proposal, make it difficult to ensure that the eco-commuters' safety is ensured. I strongly agree with a community that can travel by foot, bicycle, skateboard or any other self propelled mode of transit. I must ensure that we do not shuffle these commuters onto streets that will bear the brunt of the overflow traffic once we move forward with the Transit Master Plan. I will ensure that we provide a safe environment for these people, before I create an avenue to fail. |
| Marrone, Tone | Yes | I'm a strong advocate of interconnecting bike lanes. I've been a cyclist for years and it is one of my platform objectives to have interconnecting bike lanes. Being a fitness enthusiast my whole life, I've often dreamed of being able to ride without concern of motorist from east to west, north to south, across this beautiful city. I'm all for it and count on any red tape being eliminated after I'm elected into office. Everyone should take the time to exercise for the benefit of all humanity. A healthy body begets a healthy mind. |
| Speziale, Gino | Yes | There are over 160 clubs registered with the Ontario Cycling association, ranging from a small group of friends, to organizations of several hundred members. Clubs organize a variety of programs and events, such as regular training rides, recreational tours, educational clinics on racing, touring, mountain biking as well as social get-together.
Local cycling clubs include, All The Right Gears (Stoney Creek), Elite Health, Hamilton Cycling Club, Mazur Coaching, Ontario Masters Cycling Association, Pierik's Cycle, Team Cross all of Hamilton and Wheels of Bloor (Dundas), Neworld Cycle of Burlington, Team Nanoblur - Gears (Carlisle). The interest and spirit in cycling is evident and growing but the majority of cyclists are individuals using their bicycles for practical means of transportation to a destination and by leisure enthusiasts riding aimlessly. Again the city and the Region of Hamilton Wentworth falls behind other Municipalities in promoting cycling as a practical means of transportation as well as the Environmental and physical benefits. Our roads are not "share friendly" with vehicles and because of our heavy industry, transport and all other large trucks have little space on their respective lane to negotiate around cyclist which acts as a deterrent for many people not to cycle on any main arteries. The cycling clubs mentioned above and the Ontario Cycling association must take part in the consulting and layout (blue print) of any bike lanes. These people are the experts and know the shared roads and off roads better than any Mayor or Councilor. These experts see the bike lanes as automobile drivers see the road in front of them. All precautions and considerations will be identified by these experts and this will assure all bike lanes are as safe as could be. And just as important it will be inviting for all. The newly designed bike lanes will promote itself. With the introduction of bike tunnels in high traffic areas and properly attended rest stops which hands out free bottled water and equipped with first aid supplies on the scenic routes. This will reflect the efforts, expertise and commitments on behalf of The City of Hamilton on promoting cycling and make it enjoyable for all. If presented and implemented properly, hundreds if not thousands of vehicles will be taken off the road even for short periods of time. And when these short stints are added up both the citizens and the Environment wins. As Mayor, bike lanes which would include construction of overpasses and tunnels would be one of the top priorities to move Hamilton forward literally! All road construction and projects will have the bike lane mandated in the scope of work without exception. Many trails will be carved out of the side of the escarpment which will have an gradual incline with rest stops. Diverting natural water flow from creeks and streams from the top of the escarpment will create waterfalls to enhance these trails and with a breath taking view of the lower City. We will have a near perfect scenic trail that will very inviting and delight all. The City of Hamilton will allocate funds for the promotion of cycling throughout the City and Region and will use the local media groups to inform the public. These on and off road bike lanes and trials will be state of the art and with the annual funding allocated by the City of Hamilton and the assistance of the many cycling clubs in our area, Hamilton will be a prime location to entertain local and international cycling events. |
| Veri, Victor | Yes | Yes, acccelerate the completion. I really like the concept of bike sharing but we need to wait for test results from Montreal Trial Program.
PS France's trial program was very expensive with much financial cost to the taxpayer. |
| Waxman, Steven | Maybe | Bike sharing is definitely supported. A Master Plan must be acceptable prior to implementation, otherwise there is really no 'Master' plan with the Ward based conditions. |
| Ward 01 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| McHattie, Brian | Yes | I strongly support all initiatives you have described in your question. Having worked through the Dundurn Street South bike lane issue, there needs to be a better public process for establishing bike lanes including community preparation for these positive developments in sustainable transportation.
In my case, I strongly supported the Dundurn Street bike lanes but encountered understandable but considerable push-back from local businesses due to the loss of on-street parking for their clients/customers. In the end, we made a number of local changes such as relocating bus stops to improve on-street parking options and adding on-street parking in the nearby neighbourhood. This was done in an ad hoc fashion but approaching the challenges with public consultation could lead to a better end-result. On the bike-sharing program question, I attended a presentation at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Sustainable Communities Conference February 2010, learning there about the Montreal Bike Sharing Program. The City of Hamilton is now engaged with the Montreal group and I am looking forward to a bike sharing program that will be patterned after the Montreal experience. |
| Ward 02 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Caplan, Marvin | Yes | As a former member of City Council, I was the most aggressive supporter of the bicycle network at tithe time. I, almost single handed, got the support of Councillors (Including the majority of Suburban Councillors) brought the bile lanes back to King St. after they had been removed.
Ward one had tens of kilometres of Bike lanes added, including many that had been approved and installed after the election. Former Councillor Horwath and I had led the battle to install bike carriers on HSR buses, the new stairs up the escarpment in Ward One were the first in Hamilton to have special bike access. In short I have always been a strong supporter of Bike lanes and if elected to represent Ward 2 I hope to be again. The Bike sharing program is an exciting initiative, and I am anxious to see it implemented. Better access up the escarpment would greatly accelerate use of bikes in Hamilton. A gentler rise in grade is already in place on the Bruce trail from Chedoke Golf Course to Ancaster. Bike riders may recall that the improvements to that section of the trail were made over the objections of my former ward mate, and championed by me. |
| Casey, Paul | Yes | I would definitely believe in the value of accelerating the implementation of the Cycling Master Plan. If one of our goals as a city is urban densification, this will be a key component. Densely populated cities rely on cycling as a primary mode of transportation, not just a recreational activity. Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Portland all have integrated their bike plan into the whole urban experience. As we attract more residents to the urban areas, we will have no choice, no other way to stem gridlock and pollution.
We also must consider many of our new residents are from countries where the bike is THE primary mode of transportation, we should take this cue and look at this as an example of the importance of the simple bike and what it's real role can be in our city. But it can't stop there, we have to encourage new businesses, as well as those that already exist, to consider those that commute to work as well. Safe bike storage, shower facilities and such. Finally, this is a Hamilton Cycling plan, not Ward specific. No councillor should be able to "block" portions going through their ward. That would be a tragedy. |
| Castle, John | No | Unfortunately again, I believe bicycles and cars vehicles just do not mix (they are dangerous to both parties). I would support segregated bike paths, where possible. |
| Chiarelli, Diane | Yes | I fully support accelerating the completion of a continuous bicycle network. All great cities allow their citizens good transportation options. This plan will assist in reducing traffic congestion, reduce our carbon footprint, allow a person to get excellent exercise. There are different cities in Canada that have bike sharing programs and that increases the use of cycling in those communities. We have a wonderful escarpment; however, we do need to allow better access up and down the escarpment for cyclists. We have to make sure that this plan moves forward quickly and does not get mired down in red tape or put on the shelf. |
| Coleman, Shane | Yes | I am in full support of a continuous bicycle network and bike sharing program. I can't figure out why Hamilton is so far behind the times in developing bicycle lanes in the city.
Many modern developed cities around the world have them. In Amsterdam 40% of the population cycle to work. It makes for healthier and happier citizens. Cycling is also a fast and inexpensive form of transportation in the city. Hamilton needs a New Chapter. |
| Deans, Ian | Yes | I had the pleasure of visiting China while I was an MP and I was very impressed by the use to which bicycles were put. |
| Farr, Jason | Yes | Bike all the time - anyway to make it easier and get more people on two wheels - works for me. |
| Ferguson, Lloyd | No | I have familiarised myself with the Cyling Master Plan. However, in these difficult economic times when many people in our comunity are experiencing difficulty with food and shelter, I do not see the implimentation of a Bike Plan as a priority at this time. |
| Geleynse, Martinus | Yes | The implementation of a proper bicycle network in Hamilton is critical for several reasons. These reasons include:
1. The safety of cyclists when traveling on roads, and the safety of auto traffic while sharing the road with cyclists; 2. Encouraging the use of bicycles rather than cars by increasing the ease of use; and 3. Encouraging health and fitness through cycling while reducing auto traffic and emissions. |
| Gentile, Matteo | Yes | Yes we need to accelerate the cycling plan. Studies show that well marked bike lanes reduce accidents helping motorists become more aware. It's a green initiative that I support and great exercise! |
| Hess, Erik | Yes | Having the opportunity to design and build many trails through Hamilton I feel this program which I was part of in its early years of development needs to continue rolling at a faster pace. The master plan indicates a system of interconnecting trails throughout the city that would allow for not just recreational use but also commuting to work opportunities.
The preferred trails would be off street and separate from motorized traffic. However, in the interest of a complete interconnecting system we will need to implement bike lanes in a sensitive way with the community where off street trails are not possible. I have designed and built many kilometres of trails on the waterfront and the city and understand the issues and costs related to this project and also the benefits to our health and the environment. |
| Ielasi, Pat | Yes | It is important that the bicycle infrastructure be co-ordinated and completed so that it is safe. There are to many bicycle lanes that just suddenly end and it is confusing to both cyclists and motorists alike. |
| Janjic, Ned | No | I fully support anything that can enhance physical fitness and reduce pollution. However, my primary concern with respect to bike paths is safety, as many children and young people are the most likely users. I would like to see a network of bike paths through green spaces and parks where safety can be ensured.
I remain, nonetheless, somewhat skeptical about the safety of cyclists in traffic on many of our existing urban streets and on our main thoroughfares. I recognize the trend toward increased bicycle usage in densely populated European cities, but am not convinced that given our climate and the design of our city that Hamilton will ever become an Amsterdam, for instance. I would like to see a less ambitious (more realistic) plan that could perhaps be implemented around Mohawk College and McMaster University, and where possible along dedicated bike paths through green spaces. I would limit bike lanes along existing side-streets linking green spaces and/or bike trails My secondary concerns are how the bike lanes in the core of the city could affect the flow of traffic and how the potential loss of parking spaces in some instances could impact street-level commercial establishments. I do not believe these have been satisfactorily addressed. As it currently stands, the Master Cycling Plan is neither a practical nor a desirable solution for the city of Hamilton. |
| Jelly, Matt | Yes | The City's road infrastructure budget must include the cycling master plan implementation. Both time and money must be built in to the budget to consult, in a meaningful way, with residents and businesses where the cycling and road infrastructure work will take place. In addition to the infrastructure, we need to move to requiring safe storage for bicycles at work locations, showers, and reward employers who provide these. The City can lead by example by ensuring all City workplaces have these facilities.
Because we are an Escarpment City, it is very important that all Escarpment crossings on the cycling master plan provide safe cycling routes. This includes all Escarpment stair facilities which need to have bike rails adjacent to the steps. I do support the bike sharing program and support funding for it. I also support providing incentives for City employees to use their bicycles to commute to work - again, leading by example. |
| Lescaudron, Dawn | Yes | Yes. I fully support the acceleration of the bicycle network and bike sharing program. In addition to the obvious health benefits I believe that it would be a great alternative to car and bus transportation. We must move forward with this plan and not allow for any ward councillor to block any portion of it.
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| Novak, James | Yes | I made this very clear at the Durand Neighbourhood, All Candidates Meeting. Urban implementation in 8 years and full implementation in 14 years. I also suggested front-loading the implementation to include bicycle storage and racks, promotion and educational programs. |
| Pipe, Charlie | Yes | I fully support the Cycling Master Plan. The plan can only benefit both the environment and the health of our population. |
| Ward 03 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Black, Bob | Yes | Yes indeed I do support this initiative better and safer bike paths will only encourage less cars on the road which in turn will help to reduce pollution and it should also make a difference in the rush hour traffic jams. In addition, the health benefits are a great bonus. |
| DiMillo, Mark | Yes | I do support the cycling master plan for Hamilton. To accelerate certain aspects of this master plan should be considered during the next term of council. I also think it should be considered together with our LRT plans, so that we can incorporate both plans together, to maximize the efficiencies of public transit together with cyclists, who no doubt will use the LRT as a combined method of transportation.
We wouldn't want to expend our resources, only to find out we have to re-do or remove some of the cycling lanes to accommodate the LRT. Cycling will form an integral part of our forward thinking initiatives here in Hamilton, and should be kept on the agenda, and we should set achievable goals moving forward. |
| Gibson, Sean | Yes | I definitely support this initiative and as an avid bike rider that's evaded one too many accidents on our city roads. Hamilton's Cycling Master Plan is something I believe will address healthy living and a plethora of environmental matters that have plagued our city for years. We are already facing monetary woes and financial challenges as a city; hence a creative approach for this project will have to be fashioned. |
| McGrimmond, Wilamina | Yes | I support Hamilton's Cycling Master Plan. |
| Morelli, Bernie | Yes | I enthusiastically supported the Cycling Master Plan. Subject to further consultation and support, I am most interested in pursuing initiatives that are responsive to the needs of our community and the people of it.
The increased use of cycling can only prove to be of benefit to those who do it as well as help stem the increased pollution created by motor vehicles. |
| Tetley, Paul | Yes | Yes, I support the completion of a continuous bike network. I feel it's important for a healthy city to provide various safe transportation options. Hamilton should be actively working towards connecting existing bike lanes and recreational trails to provide a cohesive bike network that can be used by both commuter and recreational cyclists.
In a June 2009, I wrote this letter to The Hamilton Spectator: http://www.thespec.com/opinion/letters/article/75450--cycling-plan-needs-clear-vision-and-funding Also, I have personally identified a lack of proper bike racks and secure bike locking facilities, and will support their placement throughout the city. |
| Ward 04 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Bulbrook, Norm | Yes | Yes I do support it.s completion, due the rising cost of vehicle insurance and fuel. The rising number of bikes and electric scooters on the road today are a sure sign of things to come. |
| Cicconi, Giulio | Yes | Yes, I would accelerate the implementation of a bicycle network. I enjoy bicycling from my home to the downtown YMCA which I have been a member for l5 years. There are some bicycle lanes to and from my home, but we need more to ensure safety for cyclists. |
| Merulla, Sam | Yes | I do support it incrementally with full public consultation such as the
Woodward redevelopment I strongly supported. |
| Ward 05 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Bedi, Jaswinder | Yes | I fully support this view and I am a strong green Hamilton supporter. Cycle pathways will reduce carbon footprint a lot and help clean the environment. |
| Ward 06 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Behrens, Chris | Yes | Yes the timeline should be sped up. We have terrible air quality here in Hamilton and we need to encourage people to get out of their cars and use bikes. As for a continuous network, we most definitely need one. I am a father of young children, I usually have to drive to Confederation Park for use to be able to enjoy a bike ride together. The current situation is just too unsafe, and it does not make sense. |
| Jackson, Tom | Maybe | I am a strong supporter of Hamilton's Cycling Master Plan. I am not convinced that there is clamor for bicycle commuter lanes across the city. I strongly support and advocate for funds to enhance recreational cycling trails around the city. The city has constructed pedestrian/cycling bridges across the "Linc" and the QEW. This is a testament to my record on this subject. |
| Knowles, Steven | Yes | Yes I encourage the completion of such projects. As a cyclist myself I understand the benefits of riding safe and they bike lanes are the first step in road safety. |
| Yan, Nathalie Xian Yi | No | I agree with "shifting Gears" initiative IN PRINCIPLE, because by promoting the use of bicycles we can increase individual fitness and decease pollution by taking cars off the road. Part of the problem cycling is Hamilton is not that we don't have enough "bike routes", it is that we have too many drivers who do not ride a bicycle themselves, drive too fast, and have no regard for cyclists with whom they should Share the Road.
I noticed it is also a problem which I see all the time that some cyclists have no regard for pedestrians by using a bell to alert. In addition, it concerns me that our bylaw does not address the use of the helmets except for children. Recently I have paid lots of attention in a rise in the use of electric scooters and electric motorcycles, which to date are not licensed. There are no rules as to whether they should wear a helmet and the maximum of speed they are allowed. These new modes of transport to me are a public safety risk needs to be addressed. I think it is unfortunate that the Master Plan report advocates the spending of so much money on either making new lanes, improving signage to segregates to smaller roads, rather than focusing on educating drivers on how to share the road. I hope that the master plan funding does not become more of a "cash grab" for the business than a resource for real change I the Bicycle Culture in Hamilton. I believe we could have done our homework better by engaging more individuals from other communities with a stronger bicycle culture, such as China, the Netherlands, German and even city of Ottawa. I believe we could learn more from these communities, without trying to "reinvent the wheel". |
| Ward 07 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Beck, Keith | Yes | I so support accelerating the completion of the bicycle network and any proposal that would help the city meet its goals to reduce car trips in the city. The health and economic benefits of improving local air quality by meeting those goals are more than worth the investment. |
| Duvall, Scott | No | Bicycle lanes in the City of Hamilton is a great initiative, helpful towards the environment as well as good physical activity. Unfortunately, at this time we do not have the dollars to accelerate the program, we need to repair our crumbling infrastructure first. |
| Gallagher, John | Yes | Bike paths should be planned as part of every new development, residential and commercial. Bike paths should also be a priority as each major road comes up for reconstruction. It would be inappropriate to divert current funds we can't afford right now on a major program to put bike lanes in unless it is part of a new or rebuilding project.
Frankly, I'm surprised and disappointed the current council has not taken this approach. If they had, during the four years they've been in office, a good part of the problem facing bike riders in the city would have been solved by now. |
| Pettit, Trevor | No | I believe we need a continuous bicycle network, a bike sharing program and better access up and down the Escarpment. Should councillors be able to block bike lane projects? If through public consultation within the ward there has been a determination to do so, then I think it inherent upon any councillor to represent the majority.
Bicycle programs, like many other programs, are valuable programs for our city. Having said that I am being told at the doors as I canvas to focus on the basics like infrastructure renewal - our roads, sewers and bridges. We have a $120,000,000.00 infrastructure deficit in Hamilton due to years of neglect. Let's get our house in order by prioritizing and then move to the programs that will add value to our community, such as the bicycle program. We cant do everything at once, especially in troubled economic times. |
| Ward 08 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Jenkinson, Kim | No | I do support the bicycle network: however, I have many reservations about bikes sharing major roads. To encourage biking in the city it needs to be safe. Additional bike lanes are safer than no lane, but still pose significant risk to the biker. The roads need to be wide enough to accommodate both the traffic and the bicyclist. This means a bike network across the city would mean a significant investment. Widening roads in many areas of the city would be difficult and expensive.
Hamilton has more important priorities. Transit and bike friendly busses will be used by more people than the bike lanes if they are accessible and run often enough. Where possible, bike lanes should be added when the road are being reconstructed. Bike lanes must leave sufficient room for both the bikers and the cars. |
| Whitehead, Terry | Yes | Yes, I support it because it offers people a safe and green transportation alternative. |
| Ward 09 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Clark, Brad | Yes | We do need safe bike lanes on mountain accesses that can be utilized by bikes or electric bikes. As for the expansion of the bike lanes, I believe we should be installing the new bike lanes as we rebuild our road infrastructure. |
| Fiorentino, Nancy | Yes | The bike sharing program is an excellent program that is well underway in other major municipalities such as Montreal and the use of the program is outstanding! I encourage the promotion of alternative means of transportation and making cycling safer in Hamilton. Better access for cyclists up and down the escarpement is also needed and I support this intiative. |
| McMullen, Geraldine | Yes | I do support Hamilton's Cycling Master Plan. My brother is an avid biker and he expressed concerns about the lack of walk ability and bike ability in and around the Red Hill Valley Expressway when it was first built. There are many advantages to the Cycling Master Plan, such as an excellent way to get exercise and the reduction of our carbon footprint.
It is difficult for some to accept change and while the benefits of the plan outweigh the disadvantages, it is understandable for individual ward councillors to consider their wards particular wants. I will however, assist in any way possible to support accelerating the process. |
| Mowatt, Andrew | Yes | Yes I support the Cycling Master Plan. Hamilton should have cycling lanes that reach across our city. The Escarpment is a treasure that is under utilized. We need to be as progressive and forward thinking as possible as we try to revive our city. It is also great for the environment and a health benefit. |
| Ward 10 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Bustamante, Jose Pablo | Yes | I own a bike, my son's bike is customized for his needs and my wife's bike has the shopping basket. We believe that bicycles are one the best methods of transportation. We need to encourage the use of bicycles in the city and the best way to do so is by building a bicycle network. And we need to build this network as soon as possible. |
| Josipovic, Bernard | Yes | I support a Cycling Master Plan. Cycling encourages people to exercise and therefore studies show they will be healthier. The approval of bike lane projects is crucial to the safety of all bikers out there. I approve the bike lane project because it has so many benefits to quality of life including environmental and health. |
| Ward 11 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Chartrand, Ken | Yes | I do support this initiative. I feel it is a positive move forward for the citizens of our city. I support accelerating as long as funding is available and as long as it is not a tax burden on the city or Ward 11. |
| Johnson, Brenda | Yes | Our bike and hiking trails are the gems of this city. I believe there should be more public input in this process especially in Ward 11. I was in Montreal at the MOST (Moving on to Sustainable Transportation) workshop and heard about the bike sharing program. I understand that this program is sustainable and is very cost effective and also does not cost the taxpayers anything to operate. |
| Mitchell, David | Maybe | Bike Lanes are an important part of Hamilton's Development. It does need to be done safely for both bike riders, pedestrians, runners and vehicles so no one gets hurt or is given a false sense of security. Hamilton needs to be planned and managed differently depending on geographical districts and the needs of the different communities. One size will not fit all. |
| Ward 12 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Cox-Graham, Brenda | No | This is a very difficult plan to implement all across the city. I would support a phase in, as drivers are simply not cautious enough re bicycle travel at this time. I prefer the longer timeline to give people a chance to adjust to it all. Perhaps we can implement it in small areas of the city at a time eventually stretching it to include a wider area. Safety should be the main concern. Cycling is a great way to encourage better health and cleaner air in the city. |
| Ferguson, Lloyd | Yes | I support the bike lanes and would support accelerating this project if there is adequate unallocated funds in the capital budget.
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| Ward 13 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Powers, Russ | Yes | I support the plan, in principle and also reducing the implementation period from 20 years down to a 12-15 year period (this range would reflect the annual demands relative to the proposed projects). I am supportive of the need for each project to be subject to community consultation i.e. neighbourhood, business sector, etc. before implementation. Dundas is a myriad of housing and building stock...some areas have virtually no off-street parking therefore would be a challenge if on-street parking was eliminated to accommodate a designated bicycle lane only. |
| Robinson, Glenn | Yes | The completion of a continuous bicycle network in the City of Hamilton should be accelerated.
At present, there is a disconnect between the Plan's investment schedule and the City's 10 year capital budget. The 10 year budget has set spending at approximately half of what the Plan requires assuming a 20 year implementation time line. Other initiatives such as bike sharing, bike parking and cycling education compliment the network and should be carried out when and where appropriate during implementation of the Cycling Master Plan. The implementation schedule should be coordinated with road work projects. |
| Scime, Danya | No | I do support more bike paths and bike lane projects but I do not support "accelerating" the Cycling project. I do believe in being proactive in both the planning stages and the implementation. As roadways / infrastructure is repaired, it must be well known ~ prior to the work being started ~ whether or not it is a bike pathway within the Master Plan.
If the said repairs / upgrades are part of the route, then yes, get it done. (I don't want to see any project be completed only to have to be re-done in five years because we forgot about the long term plan.) We have an extremely tight budget and must remain focused on making sure that every dollar we spend is spent wisely. There are many issues on the table now, that need our support now (jobs, poverty, low income housing, senior care, infrastructure). |
| Tammer, Ron | Yes | Yes, those of us that attended the Hamilton Roundtable for Poverty Reduction meeting on Monday at the Spectator Auditorium learned that this plan is a "20 year" plan. Well, that's certainly not good enough. With all of the benefits associated with making cycling more of an option for commuters, and for just getting around town, this plan must be advanced sooner than later. If the people of Hamilton started riding their bikes more and driving their cars less, their health, as well as the health of the people that would breathe in less pollution, would benefit greatly. |
| Ward 15 | ||
| Candidate | Brief Response | Full Response |
| Bos, Neil | Yes | Ward 15 plays host to hundreds of bicycles every day. Take a ride up Snake Road, or Centre Road, and any paved concession. Ward 15 (Carlisle, Waterdown, Millgrove) plays host on the weekends to bicyclists who begin their ride in Richmond Hill, Vaughan, and Scarborough. Bike lanes are fine for the downtown area, and they should be marked first.
I noticed that Dundurn in Ward 1 has bike lanes. A trip from the neo-classic castle to the stairs just west of Aberdeen is all the exercise anybody needs in a week. And returning to York Boulevard is downhill most of the way. |
| Gaspar, Brian | Yes | I would support the bike plan however again it boils down to planning to blatantly drop bike paths without proper coordination would be meaningless. We have some amazing trails throughout the Hamilton area which i personally travelled they are not congested but growing in popularity. The existing paths require up keep with subject to erosion and potholes and safer accesses through the busy intersections. |
Response Summary (top)
| Brief Response | Count | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | 56 | 81.2% |
| No | 10 | 14.5% |
| Maybe | 3 | 4.3% |
14 Candidates Have Not Responded (top)
| Mayor | ||
|---|---|---|
| Wozny, Mark | ||
| Ward 01 | ||
| Greco, Tony | ||
| Paquette, Raymond | ||
| Ward 02 | ||
| Jones, Hoojung | ||
| Wright, Kevin | ||
| Ward 05 | ||
| Collins, Chad | ||
| Rukavina, Frank | ||
| Stacey, Dave | ||
| Ward 06 | ||
| Febers, Michelle | ||
| Pecyna, Ed | ||
| Ward 10 | ||
| Pearson, Maria | ||
| Ward 13 | ||
| Zuliniak, Marty | ||
| Ward 14 | ||
| Pasuta, Robert | ||
| Ward 15 | ||
| Partridge, Judi | ||
