BIG MOVE #3 - Reallocation of Road Space

Action

• Reallocate a minimum of 10% of road space from vehicles to sustainable modes of travel, green infrastructure, or public spaces.

Contribution to Climate Action Plan Targets

• supports mode shift from vehicles and provides opportunities for non-motorized travel on roadways.
• provides opportunity for climate adaptation strategies- including removal of pavement or hardscape to reduce runoff and lessen the urban heat island effect.

Consideration and Challenges

• Involves reallocating road space on streets that offer direct routes for those taking transit or using active transportation modes, or in areas rich in destinations.
• A 10% reallocation target is comparable to targets in other Metro Vancouver municipalities and is considered a minimum target. Further work may refine this target.
• Many residents see the reduction of regional through-traffic as a priority. Road space reallocation done at strategic locations may contribute toward reducing these types of trips.
• Considerable coordination challenges with TransLink may be experienced, and there may be financial implications in the form of reduced Operations, Maintenance, and Rehabilitation (OMR) funding received. TransLink approval is also required when making any changes to speed or capacity on Major Road Network.

Additional Benefits

• Significant safety and comfort improvements for those using active transportation modes.
• Improvements in bus reliability, and local economic vitality.
• Reduction in traffic, noise, and air pollution.