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Website: http://christineleadman.com/

From the beginning of my term I have been a strong supporter of cycling initiatives in the city. I have hosted two cycling seminars at City Hall for cyclists, staff and Councillors. It presented two different cities and the incredible progress made in advancing cycling in their cities. The clear message was if there is the political will it can be done.

I have worked with the local cycling organizations to work at adopting pro-cycling facilities in the ward with the first Bike Box going in at Churchill and Richmond Road which is currently under construction. Initiated the addition of the Hampton Park pathway to the Cycling Plan.

As Vice-Chair of Transportation Committee, was instrumental in working to obtain the highest investment in cycling/pedestrian facilities for 2010 - $16M dollars.

Engaging staff and developers to incorporate secure cycling facilities not only for residents of the building but for visitors as well.

Support the East-West cycle plan.

Support the inclusion of cycle facilities in conjunction with transit.

Carling Avenue infrastructure scheduled for 2011-2012 to include cycling lanes.

Lobbied and supported for cycling to be moved from "Strategic Initiatives" to a true line item in the budget.

Meetings with the NCC to lobby for support for extending cycle pathways in partnership with the City.

Recommended the Top Ten Cycling problems for stimulus funding consideration.

The Cycle Plan must be considered as a major infrastructure project to be funded appropriately.

Safer cycling facilities are essential to promote a higher transit modal split.

Overall cycling must become part of our everyday vernacular when we speak about roads and transit. It is no longer a "nice to have" feature but a cost
saving investment for city taxpayers.

It is short term thinking not to fund this infrastructure when there are so many savings to be gained and at the same time have a healthier, more sustainable city. There is often talk of a "vision" in having a world class city and short sightedness often gets in the way. We need to take bold steps if we are ever to reach that goal.