BikingToronto is a TCAT supporter. Here's the latest from TCAT:

(To subscribe to TCAT News, go to http://torontocat.ca/main/?q=join)

1. TTC Station Improvements – Public open house, November 7th, 6:00 – 9:00 pm

Apologies for the short notice, but the TTC is holding a public open house this evening to provide information and receive comments regarding the plans for a 3-year construction project that will result in a wide range of improvements for Kipling and Islington stations.

Date: Wednesday, November 7

Time: Open House, 6:00 pm; Presentation, 7:30 pm

Location: Islington United Church, 25 Burnhamthorpe Road (Burnhamthorpe and Dundas)

You can view the flyer by clicking here

For information on the entire station modernization project, including Pape and Victoria Park stations, click here

2. Toronto's Walking Strategy - Public consultation, November 8th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

As reported in October, the City has released a report titled Steps Towards a Walkable City: Proposed Framework for a Toronto Walking Strategy. This report builds on the public consultation the City has already undertaken and was put together by City staff in the Transportation Services division, along with input from an inter-divisional working group.

The next public meeting to learn more and provide comments on the development of the Walking Strategy is this Thursday.

Date: Thursday November 8

Time: 7:00 pm

Location: Toronto Reference Library - Beeton Auditorium, 789 Yonge St. (north of Bloor on Yonge)

For more information about the event call 416-392-7200 or email pedplan@toronto.ca

3. 2008 Capital Budget Process – Public Hearings, November 13th

Last week the City released its draft 2008 Capital Budget. TCAT is still pouring over the many documents to see where the City is directing funds that invest in active transportation, and we will be releasing our public comments and recommendations later this week – STAY TUNED!

TCAT encourages all our supporters to come speak to the Budget Committee next Tuesday during the public hearing session. This is the only opportunity to voice your support for funding of projects that improve the walking and cycling environment in Toronto.

To find the public presentation and analyst briefing notes visit the City’s web site by clicking here

To sign up to make a deputation on November 13th, contact the committee secretary at mmacdona@toronto.ca or 416-392-7340.

4. Neighbourhood Design linked to Diabetes – Toronto study released

As reported in all the major news outlets last week, The Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES) and St. Michael’s Hospital released a report titled Neighbourhood Environments and Resources for Healthy Living: A Focus on Diabetes in Toronto – ICES Atlas.

[note: the ICES Bicycle User Group is a TCAT supporter]

This report links various neighbourhood factors with the incidence of diabetes in Toronto. Many of the findings relate to neighbourhood design, accessibility and mobility. In this regard, the report might not tell us a lot active transportation supporters don’t already believe – but it provides science and data to back it up.

Areas with high rates of diabetes tend to be found outside of Toronto’s downtown core, in suburban areas, where there is reduced access to healthy resources such as fruit and vegetable stores and where “activity friendliness” is lower (e.g. fewer amenities within walking distance, poorer access to public transit, greater car dependency).

Among the many recommendations made in the report, the researchers suggest the City

Change planning, development and zoning practices to reduce urban sprawl, increase residential density and promote mixed land use.

To read the news release click here

To read the full report click here

5. Greater Toronto Transportation Authority (GTTA) – TCAT comments on early projects

Recently, TCAT wrote to the GTTA to express our opinion regarding the authority’s ‘early wins’. These are the projects the GTTA thinks it can implement easily, fast, and which will provide returns on the investment early on. To see a list of these projects, see the GTTA’s report by clicking here

The major intent of TCAT’s letter was to highlight the importance of the relationship between transportation and land use. The GTTA should invest in areas that will be able to support transit use – neighbourhoods where you can walk or cycle to transit without relying on the car for certain trips.

TCAT applauds the GTTA and the Province of Ontario in pursuing early actions that will invest in Ontario’s transit network, prior to full development of the GTTA’s Regional Transportation Plan. As an organization that works to promote walking and cycling, we consider transit an important piece of the sustainable transportation equation. Walking to and from a transit stop or station is always a component of a transit trip and cycling is a component of an increasing number of transit trips. However, the ability to walk or cycle to transit is highly reliant on supportive land use and urban design policies and practice. Sidewalks, safe crosswalks and bike routes are necessary for commuters to choose active transportation instead of cars to access transit.

The Province now looks to the GTTA for expertise and guidance for where best to invest in public transit. In choosing ‘early win’ projects, the GTTA should ensure that the areas it invests in also consider the needs of cyclists and pedestrians, in addition to those of transit users and drivers, so that the full sustainable multi-modal vision can be realized. This priority is stated clearly in the Province’s Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe.

Rather than focusing its early investments on projects located in greenfield areas where land-use decisions regarding density may not be determined, and where transit ridership levels are likely to be low for the immediate and short term, TCAT would prefer to see the GTTA invest in transit projects that could serve existing urban areas, where traffic congestion is creating smog detrimental to all. To choose greenfield areas as ‘early win’ recipients is to fail to recognize the vital link between urban form and high modal shares for walking, biking and transit.

To see the entire letter, please e-mail info@torontocat.ca

6. World Town Planning Day – TCAT participates in South Riverdale tour

This past Saturday The Ontario Professional Planners Institute, along with the South Riverdale Community Health Centre hosted a walking tour and discussion focused on healthy communities, in celebration of World Town Planning Day, which is this Thursday, November 8th.

The walking tour of the South Riverdale Community was led by the local city planner, and described recent and planned developments. The tour was followed by an overview and discussion by planning professionals from different disciplines on what was learned. An architect and urban designer commented on some of the aesthetic and livability aspects of the recent developments, and a health planner covered the social and health aspects of the neighbourhood, as well as the role of the community health centre. TCAT’s project coordinator, Fred Sztabinski, participated on the panel, commenting on the needs and accommodation of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. Of note was how bike- and pedestrian-friendly this particular area is compared to many other areas in the city.

TCAT looks forward to more opportunities to engage with the planning profession, as well as members of the public, in communities across the city at events such as this one.

7. Province-Wide Bicycle Advocacy – TCAT attends Kitchener-Waterloo conference

Last week, TCAT was part of a conference hosted by Cycle Chatham-Kent, the Bicycle Trade Association of Canada (BTAC) and the Region of Waterloo. This was an opportunity for bicycle advocates from across the province – cycling committee members, municipal staff, and non-profits – to meet, share experiences, and strategize.

The result of the day’s discussion and debate was the formation of an informal working group to explore the possibility of a province-wide coalition that will address provincial issues and priorities that would improve conditions for cyclists. A follow-up meeting is tentatively planned for the spring, and TCAT will continue to track the progress of this group and participate in their work.

8. Greenwood bike lanes installed! Pond Road getting close

As reported on BikeToronto and BikingToronto last week, the bicycle lane on Greenwood Avenue between Queen and Danforth has been painted. This is about the fourth bike lane to be installed in Ward 30 this year.

There are also initial reports that the bike lane planned for Pond Road near Shorham Drive on the York University campus has also been painted.

To see the BikeToronto post click here

To see the BikingToronto post click here

9. Welcome A Stroll in the Park, Bloor Improvement Group, Green Here and Walk Here – New groups join TCAT’s growing list of Supporters

It helps to be able to say how many individuals and groups support the work we do when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media, or put out a publication. As part of our effort to grow the collective voice of TCAT, three new groups have joined our list of supporters. They are:

• A Stroll in the Park
• BIG - Bloor Improvement Group
• Green Here
• Walk Here

The TCAT Steering Committee welcomes these groups to TCAT.

Labels: advocacy

Toronto Cyclists Union Ultrasound Newsletter - Late October

posted by Joe on Thursday, November 01, 2007

Cycling Advocates learn about parenthood in September 2007
(photo by Himy Syed)

Via the BikingToronto Inbox, a message from the still developing fetus of the Cyclist Union. Fathered by Dave Meslin, the bouncing baby is due in Spring 2008.

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Dear friends,

The Toronto Cyclists Union is 8 months away from delivery and appears
to be developing in a healthy manner. Your support has been very
influential and has ensured an enjoyable beginning to our first
trimester. Your cards, presents and warm wishes are greatly
appreciated.

The overwheming amount of support we have received is also an
indication of the future success of the Cyclists Union. This project
will only work if we have the support and active involvement of
thousands of cyclists, beginning in June 2008. Early indications of
support are positive and we are proud to announce that the Ultrasound
Facebook group has attracted close to 800 members in just a few weeks
making it the largest bicycle-related Facebook group in Toronto.

In this newsletter we'd like to share with you our primary goal as an
organization: advocacy. Although we will serve as a "service club"
for cyclists, we will also be working every day to improve riding
conditions in our city to make sure that your ride is safer and more
enjoyable. We are modeling our organisation after the Canadian
Automobile Association (CAA) which promotes itself as a service club
but actually spends a significant amount of resources on advocacy,
pushing governments to build more highways, wider streets, etc. It
seems that no one has informed them about global warming or basic
congestion theories which explain that more roads simply increase the
number of cars leading to increased congestion. Just two weeks ago,
the CAA was in the media speaking out against the proposed east-west
bikeway in Toronto. No problem. We can play the same game. The
Cyclists Union will be a loud voice, supported by our members,
countering the message of the automobile lobby groups. Lucky for us,
we have both public opinion and science on our side.

The Toronto Cyclists Union will work hand-in-hand with other
organizations and individual cyclists to ensure that bicycles are
taken seriously by City Hall politicians and planners, as well as the
media. We'll focus our attention on the installation of new bike
lanes, improved signage, maintenance of existing infrastructure and
enforcement of bikelanes. Think how much money the City could make
if they actually ticketed every car found parked in a bikelane!

Most importantly, we want to promote Toronto as a Bicycle City.
There is a misconception that cycling is only a "downtown" issue.
The truth is that people ride bicycles in every neighbourhood in
Toronto and it is the non-downtown riders who are most in need of new
infrastructure. The Cyclists Union will be a city-wide project, with
44 Ward Captains acting as a liaison between the bike union, local
bikers, the local Councillor, city planners and local media. If you
live in North York, Scarborough, York or Etobicoke and you're
interested in being a Ward Captain, please get in touch with us soon.

Over the winter we will be developing a comprehensive political
mandate that clearly describes our vision and goals for Toronto. If
you wish to submit ideas for this document, please send us your
thoughts in an e-mail.

Thanks again for your continued support! Stay tuned for the November
Newsletter which will contain an exciting announcement.

Bikelovers can subscribe to this newsletter by sending an e-mail to
ultrasound@monkeycycle.org.

Labels: advocacy, news

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TCAT News: Bikelanes, Bridges, Centennial Park & Walking

posted by Joe on Wednesday, October 31, 2007

BikingToronto is a TCAT supporter. Here's the latest from TCAT:

(To subscribe to TCAT News, go to http://torontocat.ca/main/?q=join)

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1. Royal York road bike lane approval - Toronto and East York Community Council, October 30th

On Oct. 30th the Etobicoke York Community Council will review a report by staff and vote on the approval of a bike lane on Royal York Road from Delroy Drive to Mimico Creek. You can read
the agenda here (item 11.22), and the staff report can be found here.

If you are interested in attending the meeting, it is at 9:30 am in the Council Chamber at Etobicoke Civic Centre, 399 The West Mall (Map).

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2. Pedestrian and Cycling Issues 3 Bridge Forum - Thursday,
November 1

Councillor Paula Fletcher - Ward 30 Toronto Danforth - is hosting a public meeting this Thursday to discuss plans for the design and reconstruction of three bridges in the ward:

1. Dundas Bridge;
2. Unwin Bridge; and
3. Future West Donlands/Eastern Avenue Bridge.
   

At this forum, she and transportation staff will be seeking input on pedestrian and
cycling infrastructure for these 3 bridges. Councillor Glen De Baeremaeker, Chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee, has also been invited to attend the meeting.

Meeting Details:

Date: Thursday, November 1

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Dundas St. Public School, 935 Dundas St. East (Located Between Broadview and Boulton Ave)

For further information contact the councillor's office at 416-392-4060 or councillor_fletcher@toronto.ca

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3. Centennial Park Master Plan – Public Meeting November 1st

As reported previously in TCAT news, Parks, Forestry and Recreation will be holding a public meeting for
interested citizens regarding the new Master Plan for Centennial Park.

BikeToronto has a very interesting post describing the plans to date, and specifically the omissions for cyclists. You can read the post here.

Meeting Details:

Date: Thursday, November 1^st

Time: 6:00pm.

Location: Centennial Park Olympium, 2^nd floor,
590 Rathburn Road, just West of Renforth Road

Agenda:

• Open House at 6:00 PM
• Presentation at 6:30 PM
• Workshop to follow presentation
• Wrap-up at 8:00.
  

For more information on the master plan and consultation process, click here.

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4. Toronto's Walking Strategy - Next public meeting, November 8th

As reported earlier in October, the City has released a report titled Steps Towards a Walkable City: Proposed Framework for a Toronto Walking Strategy. This report builds on the public
consultation the City has already undertaken and was put together by City staff
in the Transportation Services division, along with input from an
inter-divisional working group.

Spacing Toronto has posted a notice for the next public meeting on the development of the Walking Strategy. To see the entire post, click here.

The City wants to hear your comments about how we can make our communities more walkable.

We are holding a series of public consultation sessions over the
coming months to get your input into the development of the Toronto
Walking Strategy.

The third workshop in this series will present “Steps Towards a
Walkable City” a proposed framework for the Toronto Walking Strategy
and will take place:

Thursday November 8, 2007
Toronto Reference Library - Beeton Auditorium
789 Yonge St. (near Bloor/Yonge)
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Join us and provide your input on the framework and actions proposed
in “Steps Towards a Walkable City” and discuss what is most important
to you to help shape an exciting vision of walking in Toronto.

For more information about the event call 416-392-7200 or email pedplan@toronto.ca .

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5. Sustainable Transportation Initiatives - Amendments to approved report

As reported in TCAT News last week, at its meeting on October 23, City Council approved the joint report from Transportation Services and Transportation Planning titled Sustainable Transportation Initiatives: Short-term Proposals.

Below is a list of amended recommendations, which Council made and that relate to cycling and walking (the amendment is in bold).

Pedestrians:

2.d. direct the General Manager, Transportation Services, in accordance with Recommendation 2.c.iii., above, to evaluate and implement “pedestrian scramble phases” on a pilot project basis, at the following intersections:

i. Bloor Street and Bay Street;
ii. Bloor Street and Yonge Street;
iii. Yonge Street and Dundas Street; and
iv. Bay Street and Dundas Street;

Cycling:

3.f. direct the General Manager, Transportation Services to report back to the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee on options available to significantly improve cycling safety at intersections by:

i. identifying approximately three to four intersections on Queen Street or another street with a high volume of bicycle use and a high incidence of car-bicycle collisions at which to pilot ‘leading bicycle intervals’; and

ii. identifying approximately three to four intersections along College Street or another street that currently has a bike lane and a high volume of bicycle use at which to pilot the creation of ‘bike boxes’.

Other Initiatives:

7.a.direct the General Manager, Transportation Services and the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, to report on:

i. the establishment of a permanent City staff committee to liaise with representatives of the cartage and courier industries, building owners, managers and tenants on commercial vehicle servicing issues, including the access and parking needs of pick-up, delivery and servicing vehicles; and

ii. possible strategies to encourage a greater proportion of courier deliveries and pick-ups to be made by bicycle, transit and messengers on foot;

To read Council's decision document and the ammended recommendations, click here and refer to page 47.

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6. Lansdowne Avenue improvements - Sharrows

As reported on BikingToronto last week, the newly constructed Lansdowne Avenue between College and Bloor is sporting sharrows.

To see the BikingToronto post and discussion, click here.

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT News: New Taxes, Coloured BikeLanes, Surveys, Budgets and More

posted by Joe on Monday, October 29, 2007

BikingToronto is a TCAT supporter. Here's the latest from TCAT:

1. Sustainable Transportation Initiatives – City report endorsed by City Council

Earlier this month, a joint report from Transportation Servicesand Transportation Planning was released, and was approved the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee. You can read the report at http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/... backgroundfile-7193.pdf.

The initiatives are ‘quick wins’ for improving walking, cycling and transit over the next two years or so. Some of the projects relate to existing plans, such as the Bike Plan, forthcoming Walking Strategy, and Transit City Plan. However, many are completely new proposals from the City, such as an East-West bike route along Bloor and Danforth.

The report went to City Council for approval on October 23^rd. Though TCAT is not currently aware of the exact amendments council made to the recommendations in the report, it was approved. On CBC’s Metro Morning today, Director of Transportation Planning, Rod McPhail, noted that Council added two more intersections to the ‘pedestrian scramble’ pilot projects. In addition to Yonge & Bay and Yonge & Bloor, the City will also test this concept at Yonge & Dundas and Bay & Dundas. You can hear the interview with McPhail at http://cbc.ca/metromorning/... PDSOCT24.ram

In advance of Council’s debate yesterday, TCAT submitted a letter to Council supporting the initiatives, while commenting on some omissions that would improve the report. If you would like to see a copy of this letter, please e-mail info@torontocat.ca.

2. New Taxes Approved – Portion of Personal Vehicle Ownership Tax for cycling & pedestrian improvements

At its meeting on October 22^nd, City Council approved two new revenue tools – the Land Transfer Tax and the Personal Vehicle Ownership Tax. While these new funds will flow to a variety of City budget items and help to make up the current budget shortfall, last week biketoronto.ca alerted TCAT to the fact that a portion of the vehicle tax is supposed to go to active transportation. From the Mayor’s Fair Tax Plan web site:

“A Personal Vehicle Registration Fee would cost car drivers an additional $60 a year and motorcycle riders $30 a year. It would raise about $60 million a year, to be directed to road repairs, public transit, cycling and pedestrian improvements and othertransportation projects.”

Though the specific allocation for cycling and pedestrian improvements is not stated, TCAT will monitor the upcoming 2008 capital budget process and hold the Mayor and Council to this commitment.

3. Strachan Bike Lane gets blue treatment

Toronto cycling blogs (bike lane diary, and BikingToronto) are reporting a new type of treatment being tested in Toronto. The Strachan Avenue bike lane north of Lakeshore Boulevard has been painted blue. To see photos, go to:

Toronto's First Coloured Bike Lane

This is a roadway treatment (though sometimes green or red instead of blue) in use in many bike-friendly cities around the world – Paris, New York, Berlin, to name a few – to make the space reserved for cyclists more visible to motorists, especially in areas where bike lanes merge with or cross particularly busy traffic lanes.

4. 2008 Capital Budget Process – Consultation schedule released, October 29th public introduction

The City’s Budget Committee has released its meeting schedule for the 2008 Capital and Operating Budgets. The schedule is available at http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/... backgroundfile-7440.pdf

The 2008 Capital Budget will be released next Monday, October 29^th at the committee’s meeting from 12:30 – 1:30 pm in Committee Room

2. Since this is the first time members of the public will be able to see the submissions various City departments made to the Budget Committee, this is an important day for TCAT and those who are working for a greater investment in cycling and pedestrian infrastructure. The public will have approximately two weeks to review the capital budget, and the committee will hear comments from councillors and the public on Tuesday, November 13^th.

TCAT will be preparing a submission to the Budget Committee and will share our recommendations with our supporters in the coming weeks.

5. Centennial Park Masterplan – Public Meeting, November 1st, 6:00 pm

Parks, Forestry and Recreation will be holding a public meeting for interested citizens regarding the new Masterplan for Centennial Park (see attached flyer). The Master Plan will include a concept plan and detailed multi-year implementation strategy for the revitalization of the entire 525-acre site as a public community recreation facility.

TCAT has learned that the plans do not currently incorporate the needs of cyclists – a proposed loop for bike races was opposed by staff and there is little to no bike parking. Also, the trail link across Etobicoke Creek into Mississauga is opposed by staff.

Date: Thursday, November 1^st

Time: 6:00pm.

Location: Centennial Park Olympium, 2^nd floor, 590 Rathburn Road, just West of Renforth Road

Agenda:

• Open House at 6:00 PM
• Presentation at 6:30 PM
• Workshop to follow presentation
• Wrap-up at 8:00.

For more information on the master plan and consultation process, visit http://www.toronto.ca/parks/parks_gardens/centennial.htm

Labels: advocacy

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Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation News

posted by Joe on Tuesday, October 16, 2007

BikingToronto is a TCAT supporter. Here's the latest from TCAT:

1. TCAT Supporter Survey – TCAT calls on its supporters to complete a short on-line survey

Over the next couple of months and into the New Year, TCAT will be examining its priorities, strategy, funding and governance. As a prelude to this work, TCAT wants to connect with our supporters – both organizations and individuals – to get an understanding of what our supporters expect and also what they can contribute. We also want to know where are supporters are within Toronto , so that we can track the geographic scope of our supporter base.

The survey should take no more than five minutes, and is available on-line.

If you would prefer to complete the survey on paper or through e-mail, please contact info@torontocat.ca to receive a Word version.

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2. Centennial Park Masterplan – Public Meeting, November 1st, 6:00 pm

Parks, Forestry and Recreation will be holding a public meeting for interested citizens regarding the new Masterplan for Centennial Park. The Master Plan will include a concept plan and detailed multi-year implementation strategy for the revitalization of the entire 525-acre site as a public community recreation facility.

TCAT has learned that the plans do not currently incorporate the needs of cyclists – a proposed loop for bike races was opposed by staff and there is little to no bike parking. Also, the trail link across Etobicoke Creek into Mississauga is opposed by staff.

Date: Thursday, November 1^st

Time: 6:00pm.

Location: Centennial Park Olympium, 2^nd floor, 590 Rathburn Road , just West of Renforth Road

Agenda:

· Open House at 6:00 PM

· Presentation at 6:30 PM

· Workshop to follow presentation

· Wrap-up at 8:00.

For more information on the master plan and consultation process, visit http://www.toronto.ca/parks/parks_gardens/centennial.htm

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3. Sustainable Transportation Initiatives – City report goes to City Council October 22nd – 23rd

Earlier this month, a joint report from Transportation Services and Transportation Planning was released, and was approved the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee. You can read the report at http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2007/pw/bgrd/backgroundfile-7193.pdf. [PDF file]

The initiatives are ‘quick wins’ for improving walking, cycling and transit over the next two years or so. Some of the projects relate to existing plans, such as the Bike Plan, forthcoming Walking Strategy, and Transit City Plan. However, many are completely new proposals from the City, such as an East-West bike route along Bloor and Danforth.

The report will go to City Council for approval next Monday/Tuesday, October 22nd – 23rd.

TCAT has submitted a letter to Council supporting the initiatives, while commenting on some omissions that would improve the report. If you would like to see a copy of this letter, please e-mail info@torontocat.ca .

What can you do to help this report gain approval?

The committee secretary has informed TCAT that there is no opportunity to make a deputation to Council on an item approved by a standing committee. Instead, contact your Councillor today by phone or e-mail. To find your councillor’s contact information go to: http://app.toronto.ca/im/council/councillors.jsp

TCAT has also learned that two potentially key supporters of the report, who could help gain the support of others, are Councillors Parker and Saundercook. So consider contacting them directly or copying them on any letters or e-mails.

***Also, please copy info@torontocat.ca on any letters you send. Thank you.

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4. Queens Quay Revitalization – Public Consultation process

Last night at the first meeting of the new Toronto Cycling Advisory Committee, a former member of the committee invited new members to get involved in the Queens Quay Revitalization consultation process. This a huge project being undertaken by Waterfront Toronto, and covers the section of Queens Quay from Lower Spadina Avenue to Lower Jarvis Street. Waterfront Toronto projects generally move fast, so in order to ensure that the needs of pedestrians and cyclists are represented, TCAT encourages our supporters to get involved now.

To get involved, contact:

Andrea Kelemen

Communications and Marketing

Waterfront Toronto

20 Bay Street, Suite 1310

Toronto ON M5J 2N8

Tel: (416) 214-1344 x 248

central@waterfrontoronto.ca

You can get more information on the WaterfronToronto site:

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5. Knox Contra-flow Bike Lane Installed!

As reported on bikeToronto.ca last week, there is a new bike lane in town. Knox Avenue between Eastern and Queen now has a contra-flow bike lane down this one-way street, allowing cyclist to use the route two-way.

Read more at: http://biketoronto.ca/topic/show/631.htm

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TCAT News – Help spread the word!

TCAT is continually looking to increase its list of supporters. It helps to be able to say how many people and organizations support the work we do when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media, or put out a publication. Please send this message to any groups or individuals you think would be interested in learning more about TCAT, receiving our weekly e-Bulletin, or volunteering with TCAT.

To learn more about TCAT, visit our web site at www.torontocat.ca

To subscribe to TCAT News, go to http://torontocat.ca/main/?q=join

Labels: advocacy

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A Livable City: TCAT Walk21 Session - How to bring pedestrian change to your neighbourhood

posted by Joe on Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Our Streets – inserting oneself into the municipal process: a discussion for the everyday person on how to bring pedestrian change to you neighbourhood

Date: Sunday September 30

Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location: Cecil Street Community Centre, 58 Cecil Street (near College and Spadina)

Local residents, community groups and Business Improvement Areas are full of great pedestrian ideas for their neighbourhoods but feel paralyzed when it comes to effecting change. Where do I start? Who do I talk to? Where does the money come from for all this? These are just a few questions. While the municipality directs change at the citywide level, we have a valuable resource that can offer input and ideas on the finest details: area residents and businesses.

Come join TCAT for an open and frank discussion about how to insert oneself in the process and bring pedestrian change to your neighbourhood. Featuring:

• Paul Hess, Geography & Planning Professor, University of Toronto
• Paul Bedford, former Chief Planner, City of Toronto
• Janice Etter, citizen activist involved with the campaign that led to the ban on new drive-thrus

Moderated by Catherine Porter, Toronto Star Environment Reporter

Free, no registration required.

For more information on the Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation (TCAT) visit: www.torontocat.ca

For more information on the Walk21 conference visit: www.toronto.ca/walk21

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT News: Design Issues in Joe Mihevc's Ward, and Baldwin Street Pedestrian Sunday

posted by Joe on Monday, September 10, 2007

Recent TCAT activities and news items:



TCAT meets with Bike and Pedestrian-Friendly Councillor Joe Pantalone – Strachan Avenue study proposed

This past week TCAT met with Councillor Joe Pantalone (Ward 19 Trinity-Spadina) to discuss past successes and future opportunities for improving and increasing pedestrian and cycling infrastructure in his ward. Councillor Pantalone is a supporter of walking and cycling and advocates for them at City Hall and when dealing with developers. TCAT looks forward to a strong and mutually-supportive relationship with the City’s Deputy Mayor.

Today at Toronto and East York Community Council, Councillor Pantalone will be moving a motion to direct staff to undertake a study of the CN/CP rail crossing at Strachan Avenue . The purpose of this study is to develop a design for a grade separated crossing that is inevitably necessary, given the projected growth in train traffic. While TCAT prefers to see the crossing remain at grade, it appears that will not be possible. That is why we are supporting Councillor Pantalone’s motion, insisting that any design work put the needs of cyclists and pedestrians first, ahead of motorists, to ensure that this crossing and vital link to the waterfront be safe and convenient for all who use it. A public design charette will be part of the study. TCAT plans to participate in this process and ensure, among other things, that the missing northbound link between the Martin Goodman Trail and Strachan Avenue be addressed (currently, there is no safe and legal way to cross Lakeshore Boulevard traveling northbound – for a photo of the situation, go to: http://bikelanediary.blogspot.com/2006/06/latest-bike-chunk.html).

To see a copy of the motion, go to: http://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2007/te/bgrd/backgroundfile-6336.pdf



Pedestrian Sunday in Baldwin Village – This Sunday, September 16th! & TCAT Volunteer Opportunity

PS Kensington and Streets are for People are leaders in creating car-free street festivals, and we encourage you to get out and enjoy their next event, not in Kensington Market but in Baldwin Village ( Baldwin Street near McCaul Street ). Streets are for People are also one of the over 35 community organizations that support TCAT.

The merchants and residents of Baldwin Village invite visitors to join them this summer as they introduce Toronto 's best-kept secret to the city through a series of Pedestrian Sunday celebrations. Baldwin Village is a hidden treasure nestled in the heart of downtown – a history-rich urban village that represents the culturally diverse heartbeat of Toronto . Composed of a collection of 38 independent restaurants and retailers, this community is amplified by an abundance of international cuisine.

The theme for this final event of the summer in Baldwin Village is ‘Tomorrow’. “What do you see for Baldwin Village in the future? Given the huge arts community we hope to come up with a fun, futuristic vision for the street. Visionaries welcome!”

Featuring...

· Gypsy Rebels - Authentic Gypsy Music
· Richard Underhill - Juno Award Winning Jazz Great
· Steve Mann Ensemble - International Hydraulophonist, Musical instrument using pressurized water
· irieband - Spirited Reggae Band
· Mz. Mosea and Band - Dynamic Soulful Singer
· Max Woolver Blues Band - Grassroots
· Chris Bezant & Craig Saltz Duo - Gypsy Jazz-Django Reinhardt Style
· Usmic Music - Yoshi & Chie Yamano - Guitar, Digeridoo, Sitar, Vocals
· Jim Reid - Guitar and Vocals
· Ardene Shapiro - Guitar and Vocals ... and many more Guest Artists

· Community Think Tank - What's your vision for the future of Baldwin Village ? ...with Michael J.
· Baldwin Village Film Fest - Free Movies on the Street. Bring blankets and pillows ...we'll supply movies & popcorn
· Children's Events :) - games, art & crafts, music, face painting and lots more
· Self Guided Walking Tour of Baldwin Village - present to the turn of the century
· International Delicious Food ...And a swell time for all !!


Time: 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm

For more information visit: www.pskensington.ca


TCAT LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS

At the last Pedestrian Sunday in Mirvish Village , TCAT setup a successful display, handing out our brochure and discussing our activities with visitors to the street festival. We are now looking for volunteers to help us at future Pedestrian Sunday Events. If you are available and eager to help spread the word on TCAT, please e-mail info@torontocat.ca with your availability.


Upcoming Pedestrian Sundays are:

• Sept. 16: Baldwin Village (Theme: The future for Baldwin Village )

• Sept. 30: Kensington Market (Theme: Global Harvest Traditions)

• Oct. 28: Kensington Market (Theme: Halloween! Honouring Ancestors)



TCAT News – Help spread the word!

TCAT is continually looking to increase its list of supporters. Please send this message to any groups or individuals you think would be interested in learning more about TCAT, receiving our weekly e-Bulletin, or volunteering with TCAT.

To learn more about TCAT, visit our web site at: www.torontocat.ca

To subscribe to TCAT News, go to: http://lists.torontocat.ca/listinfo.cgi/tcatnews-torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT News: Boulevarde Bollards and all things Pedestrian

posted by Joe on Wednesday, September 05, 2007

There's more fun Toronto Coalition for Active Transport stuff in the news!

---

Recent TCAT activities and news items:

1. Martin Goodman Trail bollards at the Boulevard Club – TCAT’s response
2. South Kingsway/Queensway Interchange – To be discussed at next Pedestrian Committee Meeting, September 12
3. ‘Walking Life’ exhibit – Show opening, September 9, 6:00 – 9:00 pm
4. Pedestrian Sunday in Mirvish Village – This Sunday, September 9^th! & TCAT Volunteer Opportunity
5. Bicycle manufacturers as cycling advocates – TREK announces new program
6. Gould Street International Student Design Competition

1. Martin Goodman Trail bollards at the Boulevard Club – TCAT’s response

If you’ve walked or ridden the Martin Goodman Trail lately, or read the City’s cycling blogs (I Bike TO and BikingToronto) you will know that the City recently erected a second, staggered row of bollards at the intersection with the Boulevard Club’s driveway off the Lakeshore. These bollards have had a negative impact on users of the Trail and the rationale for making this change has not been sufficiently expressed to those concerned (in correspondence with City staff and local Councillor Gord Perk’s office). In an effort to clarify the situation and seek out a solution that can more fairly accommodate those who use this intersection, TCAT has sent a letter to Councillor Perks (attached). TCAT will keep our supporters up-to-date with any developments.

We encourage you to express your opinion about the new bollards by forwarding this letter to Councillor Perk’s office and the office of your local councillor with a statement that you endorse it. You can also write your own letter or make a phone call to make sure the voices of Trail users are heard.

2. South Kingsway/Queensway Interchange – To be discussed at next Pedestrian Committee Meeting, September 12

As reported in past TCAT e-Bulletins, the Environmental Assessment for redesign of the treacherous South Kingsway/Queensway interchange was cancelled in July, ending plans to make this 1950s highway style interchange more cycle/pedestrian friendly.

More recently, TCAT has learned that this issue will be discussed at the next meeting of the Toronto Pedestrian Committee on Wednesday, September 12^th at 3:00 pm at City Hall, Committee Room 3. TCAT will report back on this discussion and next steps for getting this project back on City Council’s agenda.

3. ‘Walking Life’ exhibit – Show opening, September 9, 6:00 – 9:00 pm

Walking Life: A month long exhibit showcasing work created both by artists and community members that celebrates the experience of walking.

“The goals for Walking Life are quite simple. First and foremost, we hope to generate excitement about walking. We’d like to inspire people to reclaim (aka: use!) the sidewalks as public space. We’d like to inspire people to think about the pedestrian experience. And, we’d like people to contemplate the environments in which they walk. We have asked people of all kinds to convey their experiences through art, because the creative process has the potential to stimulate contemplation, interesting discussion and even innovation.”

Opening Reception:

Date: Sunday September 9

Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Location: Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen Street West , 3rd floor

The exhibit will be open:

Sunday Sept. 9 to Thursday Oct. 4, 12-5 pm every day.

Admission is free.

4. Pedestrian Sunday in Mirvish Village – This Sunday, September 9^th, noon-9pm & TCAT Volunteer Opportunity

PS Kensington and Streets are for People are leaders in creating car-free street festivals, and we encourage you to get out and enjoy their next event, not in Kensington Market but in Mirvish Village ( Markham Street south of Bloor Street ). Streets are for People are also one of the over 35 community organizations that support TCAT.

Mirvish Village, home to the landmark discount store Honest Ed’s at Bathurst & Bloor, is a collection of boutiques, studios and restaurants founded and named for the Mirvish family in recognition of Toronto’s retail show biz entrepreneur Ed Mirvish.

This historical area is located in midtown Toronto , (near Bathurst subway station) in an eclectic, culturally diverse, and vibrant neighbourhood. Filled with many spectacular specialty shops including video & bookstores, jewellery stores, antique stores, art galleries, vintage shops, and outstanding eateries to satisfy many different palates, visitors can stroll the spacious boulevard and open street, or relax & enjoy some food & drink on one of the many patios that Markham St. hosts.

The Mirvish Village BIA welcomes visitors to join the community in enjoying activities, entertainment & live music for all ages.

Time: 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm

For more information visit: www.pskensington.ca

TCAT LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS

At the last Pedestrian Sunday in Kensington Market, TCAT setup a successful display, handing out our brochure and discussing our activities with visitors to the street festival. We are now looking for volunteers to help us at future Pedestrian Sunday Events. If you are available and eager to help spread the word on TCAT, please e-mail info@torontocat.ca with your availability.

Upcoming Pedestrian Sundays are:

• Sept. 9: Mirvish Village

• Sept. 16: Baldwin Village (Theme: The future for Baldwin Village )

• Sept. 30: Kensington Market (Theme: Global Harvest Traditions)

• Oct. 28: Kensington Market (Theme: Halloween! Honouring Ancestors)

5. Bicycle manufacturers as cycling advocates – TREK announces new program

Though this is not a Toronto story – not even a Canadian story – TCAT is pleased to see TREK bicycles playing a strong part in the cycling advocacy community in the US . In the coming months TCAT will be looking to work with other manufacturers, as well as the Bicycle Trade Association of Canada, to combine our efforts creating a safer and more enjoyable cycling environment in Toronto.

[with files from the National Center for Bicycling & Walking]

John Burke, president of Trek Bicycle Corporation, this past Monday announced an ambitious new advocacy program during Trek World, its dealer event held at the Monona Terrace in Madison , Wisconsin .

Burke asked retailers to participate in the One World, Two Wheels program that will directly fund the efforts of the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) and the Bicycle Friendly Communities (BFC) program of the League of American Bicyclists.

Trek will donate to IMBA $10 for every full-suspension bike sold, for a minimum of $600,000 over the next three years. Trek also will donate $1 per helmet to BFC, for a minimum of $1 million over the next three years. Burke said Trek will also provide ads, brochures, T-shirts, billboards and signage in support of the projects.

Burke urged bicycle dealers to help achieve the goal of increasing bicycle trips in the US from one percent to five percent in the next 10 years (by Trek World 2017).

"[This announcement] follows on from John Burke's presentations at the National Bike Summit and Taipei bike show, where he challenged the industry to spend more of their marketing dollars on advocacy," said Andy Clarke, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists. "Rather than waiting for the industry to do this collectively, he decided Trek should take a leadership role and get on with it. Hopefully others will follow suit."

Clarke noted that the $1.6 million contribution to the BFC and IMBA programs (over three years) isn't being tacked on to the price of the bikes and helmets to dealers or consumers. "Trek described it as a tax on themselves," Clarke said.

6. Gould Street International Student Design Competition

Designing Gould Street is an open, international student design competition to propose an innovative, imaginative series of spaces that will transform the existing Gould Street corridor of Ryerson into a pedestrianized environment. The Competition is held in conjunction with the Walk21 conference.

More info at: www.ryerson.ca/gouldcompetition

TCAT News – Help spread the word!

TCAT is continually looking to increase its list of supporters. Please send this message to any groups or individuals you think would be interested in learning more about TCAT, receiving our weekly e-Bulletin, or volunteering with TCAT.

To learn more about TCAT, visit our web site at: www.torontocat.ca

To subscribe to TCAT News, go to: http://lists.torontocat.ca/listinfo.cgi/tcatnews-torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT News: Safe Cycling, BikeLane Parkers and a new Supporter

posted by Joe on Tuesday, August 28, 2007

The Latest info from the Toronto Coalition for Active Transport:

1. Urban Scrawl: The hazards of cycling in the city – Unsafe drivers or unsafe cyclists debate unfolds in the Post

National Post readers, and especially readers of Spacing’s Wire, I Bike TO, or BikingToronto, will likely know all about the recent series of articles in the National Post (and in their "Posted Toronto" blog) detailing the risks (and risky behaviour) associated with cycling in Toronto.

• First, a 16 year-old described her bike commute to work this summer, noting poor road quality and hostile motorists as a real hazard to riding in the city. You can find the article here
• Next, motorists had their turn to respond, calling attention to the fact that many cyclists put themselves in danger by ignoring traffic laws and riding unsafely. You can find that article here
• Finally, cyclists had their turn to respond, but for the most part agreed with motorists that there are too many riders out there giving cyclists a bad reputation as inconsiderate road users. This article can be found here

While TCAT recognizes that following mutual respect for road rules is essential for both motorists and cyclists, we were disappointed to see the discussion divert attention away from the other key hazards that cyclists (and pedestrians) face - namely from poorly designed and poorly maintained infrastructure, lack of funding to enforce safe driving behaviour and promote driver awareness of cyclists’ rights, and lack of support for education and promotion programs such as CAN-BIKE and the City’s Cycling Ambassadors.

In the coming days, TCAT may choose to respond formally to the Post’s series. If you have any additional ideas or points to make in this response, we would appreciate it if you shared them with us – send them to info@torontocat.ca.

2. Keeping cars out of the bike lane – Post and share Spacing’s poster

In synch with MyBikeLane.com’s anniversary, the Spacing Wire has ‘re-released’ their ‘Don’t park in my bike lane’ poster. TCAT thinks this is a clever way to bring attention to a serious problem in Toronto. It’s difficult enough to get road space dedicated to cyclists, they shouldn’t have to also deal with cars blocking these routes. Parking in bike lanes is dangerous for cyclists because it forces them out into traffic, often unexpectedly. This is an issue that can be at least partially solved through increased enforcement by police and driver education programs. Spacing’s poster helps with this second method. TCAT encourages you to share the poster with others and post it wherever you can – perhaps at your workplace.

Read the Spacing Wire post here

Download the poster here

3. Welcome Ontario Smart Growth Network – New group and over 50 individuals join TCAT’s growing list of supporters

It helps to be able to say how many individuals and groups support the work we do when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media, or put out a publication. As part of our effort to grow the collective voice of TCAT, the Ontario Smart Growth Network has joined our list of supporters. Also, since July 2007, TCAT has added over 50 individuals to its list of supporters receiving TCAT News.

The TCAT Steering Committee welcomes OSGN and the many individuals to TCAT.

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT Web/IT Developer Deadline Extended

posted by Joe on Thursday, August 23, 2007

A couple weeks ago I posted the job posting from the Toronto Coalition for Active Transport, as they are looking for a Web/IT Developer for their website.

They have extended the deadline for this to August 30th.

If you're into web development, or know someone who is... this may be a good fit with you.

---

Position: Web/IT Coordinator

Organization: Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation (TCAT)

Application deadline: August 21, 5:00 pm

Start date: September 3, 2007

Location: Toronto

Maximum project cost: approximately $7,000
(Proponents may propose additions, substitutions or subtractions from the requirements if they feel they are advisable within the budget)

---

Some of the posting:

The Web/IT Coordinator deliverables should:

• Include a web site that provides information on TCAT and its platform
• Have an attractive design/look
• Be easy to use for visitors to the site
• Be easy for administrators who do not possess technical knowledge to manage the content and functions of the site, including the ability to add, change and remove content and navigation. The site structure should be flexible and expandable.
• Be searchable
• Have a news section, with tagging feature, and an events calendar. Items from both can be designated to appear on the home page.
• Provide E-mail list registration, email list management (of multiple lists) by administrators, including the ability to send messages directly from the site, and the ability to associate email addresses with additional information (e.g.
• postal code or ward number) and use this information in email management. As well, administrators should be able to set up the ability for visitors to send emails to designated addresses (e.g. their Councillor, all Councillors).
• Include an interactive City Ward database, which brings together maps, news items, events, documents, supporters and site visitors associated with specific wards of the city. It should integrate with the email list system.
• Have an internal web page feature to circulate web page drafts to steering committee members for comment and to store non-public documents
• Provide e-mail service, including webmail access for TCAT e-mail addresses

Read the full details here.

---

Toronto Coalition for Active Transport

75 Elizabeth Street,

Toronto, Ontario

M5G 1P4

416-392-0290

info@torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT News: Bike Friendly Businesses, Pedestrian Sundays, and More

posted by Joe on Tuesday, August 21, 2007

Another issue of the Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation e-bulletin is out, with cycling and pedestrian advocacy news. BikingToronto is mentioned too, as this site is now an official "supporter" of TCAT. :)

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1. Bicycle Friendly Business Awards – Nomination due September 7th

The Bicycle Friendly Business Awards are given out every year to
businesses and organizations across Toronto who are making an effort to encourage their clients and employees to cycle.

Nominations are now underway for the 2007 awards.

Deadline for nominations is Friday, September 7th at 5:00 p.m.

The awards will be presented in the Rotunda of Toronto City Hall on
Thursday, October 4 at 6 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.

---

2. Welcome BikingToronto, St. Clair West BUG and the Running Room – New groups join TCAT’s growing list of Supporters

It helps to be able to say how many individuals and groups support the
work we do when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media,
or put out a publication. As part of our effort to grow the collective
voice of TCAT, three new groups have joined our list of supporters. They
are:

· BikingToronto (www.bikingtoronto.com)

· St. Clair West BUG

· The Running Room (www.runningroom.com)

The TCAT Steering Committee welcomes these groups to TCAT.

---

3. Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market – This Sunday, August 26th!

PS Kensington and Streets are for People are leaders in creating car-free
street festivals, and we encourage you to get out and enjoy their next
event in Kensington Market. PS Kensington and Streets are for People are
also one of the over 25 community organizations that support TCAT.

The theme of this month’s PS Kensington is: ‘Air! The Kensington Community
Air Show’
“We'll blow the Toronto International Air Show out of town with the
Kensington Horns Community Band and other home-spun family fun in the
fresh air of our pedestrian streets. A celebration of Peace not war
planes.”

Date: Sunday, August 26th

Time: 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm (10:00 pm on North Augusta)

For more information visit: www.pskensington.ca

---

TCAT News – Help spread the word!

TCAT is continually looking to increase its list of supporters. It helps
to be able to say how many people and organizations support the work we do
when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media, or put out
a publication. Please send this message to any groups or individuals you
think would be interested in learning more about TCAT, receiving our
weekly e-Bulletin, or volunteering with TCAT.

To learn more about TCAT, visit our web site at www.torontocat.ca

To subscribe to TCAT News, go to
http://lists.torontocat.ca/listinfo.cgi/tcatnews-torontocat.ca

---

TCATnews mailing list

TCATnews@lists.torontocat.ca
http://lists.torontocat.ca/listinfo.cgi/tcatnews-torontocat.ca
www.torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT News: New Bikelanes in Joe Mihevc's Ward, and More!

posted by Joe on Monday, August 13, 2007

1. Pedestrian Committee Call for Nominations – Applications due August 22nd

Have your say as part of the walking community’s voice to City Council: the Toronto Pedestrian Committee (TPC)

The TPC is a special committee of Toronto City Council. Its mandate is to promote improved pedestrian safety, pedestrian access and initiate programs that enhance walking in Toronto.

Citizen members are appointed for a four-year term or until their successors are appointed or City Council terminates an appointment.

Anyone interested in a position on the committee must complete an application form in order to be considered.

Forms can be downloaded at: http://www.toronto.ca/transportation/pedestrian/ped_commit...
Forms must be completely filled out and returned by Wednesday August 22, 2007 before 4:00 p.m.

For more information, call or e-mail Natalie Bogues at (416) 392-5341 or nbogues@toronto.ca or refer to http://www.toronto.ca/tpc

2. TCAT meets with Bike and Pedestrian-Friendly Councillor Joe Mihevc – More Bike Routes coming to Ward 21!

On August 3rd TCAT met with veteran City Councillor Joe Mihevc, Ward 21 – St. Paul’s. Councillor Mihevc voiced his support for TCAT, and noted that he is inspired by our message. This year, Councillor Mihevc led and received Council approval for three major bike projects in his ward: Christie Street bike lane, Vaughan Road shared lane (“sharrows”), and Benson Avenue signed route. Next on the list for implementation in 2008 are: Glencedar Road signed route and contra-flow bike lane and a signed route connection (still to be determined) between Vaughan Road and Davenport Road.

Councillor Mihevc is also leading some new policies and standards that support pedestrian safety on St. Clair Avenue and on local streets. TCAT applauds Councillor Mihevc on his efforts so far, and will continue to monitor these developments and support him in his efforts to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists in Ward 21 and across Toronto.

3. Welcome Go for Green, Grassroots and I Bike TO – New groups join TCAT’s growing list of Supporters

It helps to be able to say how many individuals and groups support the work we do when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media, or put out a publication. As part of our effort to grow the collective voice of TCAT, three new groups have joined our list of supporters. They are:

• Go for Green (www.goforgreen.ca)
• Grassroots Environmental Products (www.grassrootsstore.com)
• I Bike TO (www.ibiketo.ca)

The TCAT Steering Committee welcomes these groups to TCAT.

4. Official Launch of Quebec’s Route Verte – Celebrations across the province

[with details from www.routeverte.com]

It’s not focused on Toronto. It’s not even focused on Ontario. But TCAT still wants to acknowledge the momentous unveiling of the 4,000-kilometre-long network of cycling paths whose development, led by Vélo Québec (www.velo.qc.ca), has taken over 12 years and involved nearly a thousand organizations and businesses. The official international unveiling of the largest unified system of bikeways in the Americas took place last Friday, August 10th.

The official ceremonies were held at some 20 locations across the province, accompanied by cycling events, community celebrations, tributes to local artists and craftspeople and many other activities. The month-long celebrations included a 26-day Grand Tour of 2,000 cyclists, which crossed the various regions of Québec in order to encourage people across the province to discover the Route Verte on their own.

Though Torontonian’s will require a bit of a trip to be able to visit and ride this exciting piece of active transportation infrastructure, we can still appreciate the Route Verte as a representation of strong community involvement and political support working together. There is also a similar project envisioned for Ontario – the Ontario Bicycling Route (http://www.cycleontario.ca/ontario-bicycling-route.html).

Congratulations Route Verte and Vélo Québec!

5. Pedestrian Sundays on Baldwin – This Sunday, August 19th , 11am to 10pm

PS Kensington and Streets are for People are leaders in creating car-free street festivals, and we encourage you to get out and enjoy their next event, not in Kensington Market but in Baldwin Village (Baldwin Street near McCaul Street). Streets are for People are also one of the over 25 community organizations that support TCAT.

The merchants and residents of Baldwin Village invite visitors to join them this summer as they introduce Toronto's best-kept secret to the city through a series of Pedestrian Sunday celebrations (the final event of the summer is planned for September 16th). Baldwin Village is a hidden treasure nestled in the heart of downtown – a history-rich urban village that represents the culturally diverse heartbeat of Toronto. Composed of a collection of 38 independent restaurants and retailers, this community is amplified by an abundance of international cuisine.

Named after Dr. William Baldwin in the early 1800's, over the years, the neighbourhood has been home to many different groups: Jewish settlers in the 1920's, expatriate American draft dodgers and hippies during the Vietnam War, and the Asian community, already rooted in nearby Chinatown, flourished here in the 1980's.

Time: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm

For more information visit: www.pskensington.ca

TCAT News – Help spread the word!

TCAT is continually looking to increase its list of supporters. It helps to be able to say how many people and organizations support the work we do when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media, or put out a publication. Please send this message to any groups or individuals you think would be interested in learning more about TCAT, receiving our weekly e-Bulletin, or volunteering with TCAT.

To learn more about TCAT, visit our web site at www.torontocat.ca

To subscribe to TCAT News, go to http://lists.torontocat.ca/listinfo.cgi/tcatnews-torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT seeking Web/IT developer

posted by Joe on Thursday, August 09, 2007

TCAT has an employment opportunity up. If you're good at Web/IT stuff... this may be good for you:

Position: Web/IT Coordinator

Organization: Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation (TCAT)

Application deadline: August 21, 5:00 pm

Start date: September 3, 2007

Location: Toronto

Maximum project cost: approximately $7,000
(Proponents may propose additions, substitutions or subtractions from the requirements if they feel they are advisable within the budget)

SECTION I – REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

The Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation (TCAT) is requesting proposals from qualified firms or individuals for Web/IT Development Services.

SECTION II – PURPOSE OF THE RFP

1. Background Information

Formed in 2006, TCAT provides a unified voice for more than 25 community organizations working for a better cycling and pedestrian environment in the City of Toronto. For more information about TCAT, visit our web site at www.torontocat.ca

The purpose of this project is to create information technology infrastructure (website/database) with the capability for information delivery, e-mail communications; and sufficient ease of use to enable on-going maintenance and updates of the site without the need for specialized technical skills.

2. Project Purpose and Expectations

TCAT’s web presence will play an important role in achieving our platform goals. The purpose of this RFP is to select an approved IT/Web developer who will provide consistent and functional deliverables that adhere to the needs, standards and specifications of TCAT.

The Web/IT Coordinator deliverables should:

• Include a web site that provides information on TCAT and its platform
• Have an attractive design/look
• Be easy to use for visitors to the site
• Be easy for administrators who do not possess technical knowledge to manage the content and functions of the site, including the ability to add, change and remove content and navigation. The site structure should be flexible and expandable.
• Be searchable
• Have a news section, with tagging feature, and an events calendar. Items from both can be designated to appear on the home page.
• Provide E-mail list registration, email list management (of multiple lists) by administrators, including the ability to send messages directly from the site, and the ability to associate email addresses with additional information (e.g.
• postal code or ward number) and use this information in email management. As well, administrators should be able to set up the ability for visitors to send emails to designated addresses (e.g. their Councillor, all Councillors).
• Include an interactive City Ward database, which brings together maps, news items, events, documents, supporters and site visitors associated with specific wards of the city. It should integrate with the email list system.
• Have an internal web page feature to circulate web page drafts to steering committee members for comment and to store non-public documents
• Provide e-mail service, including webmail access for TCAT e-mail addresses

Proponents may propose additions, substitutions or subtractions from the requirements if they feel they are advisable within the budget

3. Term of Contract

The term will run no later than March 31st, 2008 with the expectation that functionality of phase 1 of the web site design will be ready by September 26th, 2007 and phase 2 by October 31st, 2007, and that all expenditures will occur prior to March 31st, 2008.

SECTION III – INSTRUCTIONS TO PROPONENTS

1. You must submit your proposal electronically to info@torontocat.ca.
2. Proposals received after the time and date for closing may not be reviewed.
3. Proposals should be submitted as one complete electronic document only (PDF preferred).
4. TCAT reserves the right to conduct discussions with proponents, and to accept revisions of proposals, and to negotiate price changes.
5. Proponents submitting proposals which meet the selection criteria and which are deemed to be the most advantageous to TCAT will be invited for an interview, which may include an oral presentation of the proposal to the selection committee.
6. The award shall be made to the responsible proponent whose proposal is determined to be the most advantageous to TCAT based on the evaluation factors set forth in this RFP.
7. Your proposal should be submitted in the format shown in Section VIII.
8. All responses and accompanying documentation will become the property of TCAT at the time the proposals are received.

SECTION IV – SPECIFICATIONS/ SCOPE OF WORK

TCAT is looking for website/database design and integration services and components that meet the following requirements.

Phase 1 (Sept. 26)

• Content Management System
• Attractive Design
• External web site
• Hosting (or recommended host)

Phase 2 (Oct. 31)

• Internal web site
• News feed
• Events calendar
• E-mail service, with webmail
• E-mail list management
• Interactive Ward database

TCAT expects regular communication with the developer, with ongoing opportunities to comment on and test the design and functionality of the website before the final product is delivered by the deadline.

TCAT is looking for website/database design and integration services that meet the specifications listed below. The final website design product must:

• Be consistent in its technological framework
• Be browser and platform independent
• Be able to scale to all screen resolutions
• Meet accessibility requirements
• Be usable on slow speed and broadband connections
• Be integrated with an effective search engine such as Enterprise Level Google Search Appliance
• Adhere to Web Standards
• Integrate web site, news feed, calendar, data, communication and contact management
• Provide accessible on-site content management
• Be delivered by due date

Other specifications include:

• Bug-fixing and technical support for the period ending December 31, 2007
• Training and documentation

All deliverables produced on contract with TCAT become the property of TCAT.

The proponents must state if they have on-site design capability (or subcontract/ partner with another individual or firm). Please present key designers/developers résumés, computer equipment and application software list and a list of similar projects (with screenshots and/or web addresses of sample web sites), which you have successfully completed.

SECTION V – PROPONENT QUALIFICATIONS

TCAT is soliciting proposals from individuals or firms, which are in the business of providing services as listed in this RFP. Your proposal shall include, at a minimum, the following information. Failure to include these items may be grounds for rejection of your proposal.

1. The proponents shall present evidence that the individuals or firm have sufficient recent experience in providing services as listed in this RFP.
2. The proponents shall present three client or customer references. References should include the name, position, telephone number, and e-mail address of a contact person.

SECTION VI – EVALUATION CRITERIA

Proposals will be evaluated on the following criteria, listed in order of their relative priority with most important listed first:

1. Proponent qualifications, experience and references
2. Ability to provide a wide range of website design services; response to all requirements and desired specifications in Section IV
3. Pricing schedule
4. Samples of work
5. Additional resources or benefits to TCAT

SECTION VII – PRICING SCHEDULE

Please provide a proposal quote for the work and deliverables described in this RFP.

Please break down this pricing in terms of the individual services provided (e.g. design, programming, testing, and training).

SECTION VIII – FORM OF PROPOSAL / SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

To facilitate direct comparisons, your proposal shall be submitted in the following format and include the following information, listed in order. If the proponent fails to provide any of the following information, TCAT may, at its sole discretion, ask the proponent to provide the missing information or evaluate the proposal without the missing information.

1. Complete Proponent contact information
2. Management summary and qualifications (and/or résumé), to include references per Section V
3. Pricing Schedule, Section VII
4. Specific proposal for how vendor will address the requirements (e.g. languages and programs used).
5. Samples of work product as requested in Section IV
6. A description of special skills, services or resources that the firm possesses that are not addressed in this RFP that would be made available as part of the contract

Include any additional information or benefit to be realized by TCAT as a result of contracting with you

Please also include a short description of the following:

• How you work with clients
• A description of your project development and project management approach
• A description of your development process, your milestones schedule, your asset delivery methods and review process
• Your testing methodology

Toronto Coalition for Active Transport

75 Elizabeth Street,

Toronto, Ontario

M5G 1P4

416-392-0290

info@torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT News: E-Bulletin - August 7

posted by Joe on Thursday, August 09, 2007

News from the Toronto Coalition for Active Transport:

1. Waterfront Sidewalks in Danger – courtesy of the Port Authority

[with excerpts from Councillor Adam Vaughan’s, Ward 20, newsletter]

Earlier this year, Toronto and East York Community Council (TEYCC) voted unanimously to build a sidewalk and narrow what used to be Bathurst Street south of Queens Quay Boulevard under its new name Eireann Quay. The redesign was a huge victory for the local community. Residents had demanded control over their neighbourhood street since commercial flights resumed, under protest, on the island. The new design and regulations (taxi queuing lanes were eliminated) provide a safer intersection and safer pedestrian access to Ireland Park.

However, shortly after the TEYCC’s decision, the Toronto Port Authority and Porter Airlines commenced court action seeking an injunction against the city to stop the construction of the sidewalks and open up access for waiting taxi cabs. The City has decided to defend its position and rights to build the sidewalks in court this fall. TCAT will monitor this process and keep our supporters informed of any developments or opportunities to voice your support.

2. Issues and Decisions Across the City – Let us know what’s going on, especially in your ward

As an organization focused on the entire city it is sometimes difficult for TCAT to hear about local projects until very near the end of the planning or consultation process. In some cases it is too late to mobilize our networks of cyclists and pedestrians to voice their opposition or support for a particular City plan. Other competing interests are often quicker to organize (they may have been the ones to persuade the local Councillor or City staff to initiate the project in the first place), and so their voice is heard the loudest.

That is why TCAT is asking for your help. If you hear about something going on in your community – be it a sidewalk narrowing, a new bike lane, a change to a local speed limit, or any other project that affects the quality of your walking or cycling experience, we’d like you to share that with us. We will let others in your area, and across the city, know what the City is doing. If support is needed, we will encourage our supporters to write letters and attend meetings, so that you know you are not alone.

No matter how early in the process, please send this information to info@torontocat.ca. Tell us a little bit about the project and how others can help. Expect a response and most likely a posting in the next TCAT News e-Bulletin.

3. Call for Submissions: The Environmental Story to be Remembered in 10 Years

The Sustainability Network is collecting short stories from environmental leaders across Canada to highlight our country's environmental movement, our commitment to future growth and the significant role ENGOs have as champions of the cause.

This is a core project of the Sustainability Network's 10th Anniversary celebrations and they will be promoting this in a variety of ways. The Top Ten Selections will be highlighted in their October edition of Nexus, their website, media releases and in partnership with Corporate Knights magazine. They will also include "honourable mentions" wherever possible. Here are the guidelines:

· Submissions are due September 7, 2007
· Maximum 300 words in length, and a headline for your short story
· Include your name, title, and name of your environmental organization
· Highlight the environmental cause/issue, and why it's important to be remembered in 10 years
· Print-quality photos are encouraged with your emailed submission, but not essential in the selection process.
· Email your Environmental Story to be Remembered in 10 Years to: info@sustain.web.ca

4. TCAT News – Help spread the word!

TCAT is continually looking to increase its list of supporters. It helps to be able to say how many people and organizations support the work we do when we speak with City Councillors, City staff, and the media, or put out a publication. Please send this message to any groups or individuals you think would be interested in learning more about TCAT, receiving our weekly e-Bulletin, or volunteering with TCAT.

To learn more about TCAT, visit our web site at www.torontocat.ca

To subscribe to TCAT News, go to http://lists.torontocat.ca/listinfo.cgi/tcatnews-torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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TCAT Program Coordinator Job Posting

posted by Joe on Friday, April 13, 2007

The Toronto Coalition for Active Transport recently is awash in cash from an environmental organization (I can't remember which one right now) for all their good efforts in pushing pro-cycling, walking and transit initiatives in Toronto - and are looking for a Program Co-ordinator now (yes, this will be a paid position).

I'll cut and paste the job description here for you - it doesn't look to be online anywhere else... only bouncing around in emails.

---

Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation (TCAT)
Project Coordinator



TCAT was formed in 2006 to give a unified voice to the many groups working for a better cycling and pedestrian environment in Toronto. TCAT's role is to provide a moderate but firm, non-partisan voice in the City's transportation planning processes. TCAT aims to be recognized for its informed and articulate policy expertise. TCAT's communication goals are to encourage municipal decision-makers to vote in favour of the policies and projects they supported in TCAT's election surveys, to carry out focused campaigns to ensure implementation of key priorities, and to leverage complementary activities from its member organizations. With
funding from the Toronto Community Foundation, a project coordinator is required to assist TCAT through its start-up phase to develop a focused, strategic action plan to secure City commitment for a continuous and safe active transportation network in Toronto.

The Project Coordinator will report to and take direction from the Steering Committee and perform tasks under the following general headings:

Research: Gather information using survey research, literature review,
information interviews, etc., on subjects including but not limited to:
• Municipal decision making processes in the City of Toronto
• Pedestrian and cycling policies and programs in other jurisdictions
• Background information related to deputations
• Informing the Steering Committee of current events or upcoming issues
• Identifying and pursuing new funding opportunities for TCAT
• Undertaking a membership survey to profile TCAT members and determine
how they are willing and able to contribute to TCAT efforts

Administration: Provide administrative support for the organization,
including, but not limited to:
• Organizing, coordinating and attending meetings (including a strategic
planning session and TCAT’s Annual General Meeting)
• Preparing agendas and minutes
• Arranging facilities, equipment and catering for meetings
• Serving as a liaison between the Steering Committee and IT consultant
• Preparing periodic reports and invoices for funders

Communications: Prepare and facilitate communications for the
organizations, including but not limited to:
• Developing and adhering to TCAT’s communication strategy
• Developing visual materials to illustrate and communicate research findings
• Fielding and directing inquiries from coalition members, the public,
government and other organizations
• Preparing information and/or press kits for media, politicians, etc.
around specific issues or campaigns

Advocacy: Identify and coordinate opportunities for TCAT to participate in
strategic events, etc., including but not limited to:
• Developing recommendations for the 2008 & 2009 City Budgets, after
reviewing 2007 City Budget results against TCAT Platform items.
• Working with the Cycling and Pedestrian committees to forward
recommendations to the Planning and Growth Management Committee in time to
be transmitted to the 2008 and 2009 City Budget Process.
• Flagging and creating opportunities for Councillors, especially those on
the Executive Committee and Budget Committee, to improve conditions for
active transportation.
• Organizing TCAT’s advocacy campaigns and develop a tool for measuring
the progress TCAT is making on promoting its platform and having action
taken to achieve it.

Terms of contract:
• Compensation - $29,000 to $33,500
• 31 to 42 week contract, beginning in May 2007, with possible extension subject to funding
• 22.5-37.5hrs/week, distribution of hours to be negotiated
• Including some evening and possibly weekend hours
• The successful candidate will need to work from home for at least a
portion of the time

Qualifications:
• Prior knowledge of, or experience with municipal politics in Toronto, particularly as it relates to active transportation issues
• Prior knowledge of or experience with program administration for advocacy/non-profit organizations
• Superior written and oral communications skills
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with diplomacy and tact
• Demonstrated ability to work independently to balance multiple demands with a keen sense of quality and deadlines
• Experience researching funding sources and writing funding proposals and reports
• Familiarity with word processing, spreadsheets, graphics software and other office equipment
• Candidates should be committed to cycling and walking as healthy, sustainable modes of transportation.

Please visit TCAT’s website at www.TorontoCAT.ca to learn more about our coalition platform.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter on or before 12 pm on April 23rd to info@torontocat.ca

Labels: advocacy

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Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation

posted by Joe on Wednesday, August 23, 2006

There's a lot of groups in Toronto advocating for better cycling facilities, wider sidewalks, car-free areas, nicer shopping districts planned around people (who shop) rather than cars (who don't), more sustainable transportation options, etc.

Individually, they can be often ignored, as they are "small cries in the darkness", but together, speaking with a unified voice, can begin to affect real change in Toronto.

It is with this goal that the Toronto Coalition for Active Transportation has been formed.

The site has lots of great ideas about building and promoting "active transportation" (the current lingo for walking and cycling, etc), and while I don't see an area on the website about joining "TCAT" initiatives, I would hope that this is something planned.

Involving community groups and interested individuals in a group's activities is a great way to build a broad base of support for active transportation initiatives... which theoretically leads to politcial support.

Labels: advocacy

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