Bill Davis - February 1997 Volunteer of the month,

Bill Davis has been an active CfSC volunteer for more than four years, as just one member of the very active Davis family. His wife Agnes and son Paul are also dedicated CfSC volunteers.

You may have already met Bill as one of the smiling faces behind CfSC's booths or public events, including BIKE Weeks and last year's Ride for Cycling registration desk. CfSC members have always been able to depend on Bill's help, even on short notice, for the important behind-the-scenes work that keeps things running smoothly.

Most recently and more officially, Bill has been a driving force on the Ottawa Cycling Advisory Group. As chair of its Comprehensive Cycling Plan Implementation Subcommittee, Bill has been as exacting as the committee name sounds! His committee meets with Ottawa Engineering and Works staff, including Alternative Transportation Planner Daphne Hope, twice a month, sets priorities and reviews progress on cycling network improvements. "Bill is responsible for encouraging several new OCAG members to become involved with the work of the subcommittee," says Daphne. "He is always ready to participate in site visits to further the work on various projects. He is not stinting in the time committed to this work, for I frequently arrive at the office on Monday morning to find telephone messages left by Bill on Saturday or Sunday!"

The list of proposed improvements is pages long and includes both projects that are underway and ones that are planned for construction in future years.

In between meetings, Bill can be found visiting and reviewing sites for future cycling improvements and keeping Ottawa councillors informed about the progress to make the city cycling-friendly. His determination has ensured that the Comprehensive Cycling Plan vision has been transformed into new cycling route linkages and on-road improvements. Adds Daphne, "While I may experience some frustration at not being able to keep up with Bill's demanding pace, his assistance and support as a volunteer are very much appreciated."

City councillors were also convinced to maintain their support for cycling during the tough budgets of the last two years, thanks in no small part to Bill's efforts. Each year, $150,000 was dedicated to the CCP where staff had originally recommended no funding whatsoever.

Bill lives in Alta Vista, where his City Councillor is Allan Higdon. In June,1995, Bill arranged for a cycling tour of the ward for the Councillor and Commissioner of Engineering and Works Ted Robinson. Higdon notes: "Bill Davis is a dedicated cyclist and has been very effective in his dealings here at City Hall. He is very deserving of recognition for his volunteer efforts."

And Bill has recently taken his determination and expertise to the Regional level, initiating an important meeting with Regional Councillor Peter Hume.

On behalf of all Ottawa cyclists, thank you, Bill!