Cycling the lake erie coastal stewardship trail dec 2011

The Zen of Cycling theThe Zen of Cycling the

Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship TrailLake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail

September 11September 11--17, 201117, 2011Volunteer Observations on behalf ofVolunteer Observations on behalf of

Carolinian Canada CoalitionCarolinian Canada Coalition

The Event:Lake Erie Cycling Route – Leaders Mobile Workshop

End-to-End Pilot Ride September 12-17, 2011

Presented by the Waterfront Regeneration Trust in

association with the Carolinian Canada Coalition

and the Province of Ontario

Doug Vallery, EndDoug Vallery, End--toto--End Tour Cyclist Dec 3, 2011End Tour Cyclist Dec 3, 2011

Quick ClaimsQuick Claims�� Observations made and opinions expressed are those of the Observations made and opinions expressed are those of the

author only; this presentation is from author only; this presentation is from ““the laymanthe layman’’s points point--ofof--viewview””�� The author does not represent any of the organizations or The author does not represent any of the organizations or

individuals who organized, sponsored or participated in the Mobiindividuals who organized, sponsored or participated in the Mobile le Workshop Workshop

�� The author would like to thank the Waterfront Trust as the The author would like to thank the Waterfront Trust as the primary workshop host primary workshop host –– the sixthe six--day workshop and supported day workshop and supported bicycle tour was ambitious, wellbicycle tour was ambitious, well--executed and enjoyable.executed and enjoyable.

�� The author would also like to thank the Carolinian Canada The author would also like to thank the Carolinian Canada Coalition for sharing itCoalition for sharing it’’s ambitious Coastal Stewardship plan, and s ambitious Coastal Stewardship plan, and designating the author as itdesignating the author as it’’s ends end--toto--end observer, end observer, complementing the participation of itcomplementing the participation of it’’s Directors and staff at each s Directors and staff at each segment of the workshop.segment of the workshop.

�� The content of this presentation is entirely personal; the The content of this presentation is entirely personal; the participation of the author was participation of the author was ““personalpersonal”” time taken as vacation; time taken as vacation; other than other than ““hosted workshop eventshosted workshop events”” the author paid for all other the author paid for all other expenses (travel; accommodations; meals). expenses (travel; accommodations; meals). This was not part of the This was not part of the GRAVY TRAIN!GRAVY TRAIN!

Personal PerspectivePersonal Perspective�� The authorThe author’’s personal s personal ““lenseslenses””::

•• A recent Tour Cycling participant and advocate (this was the A recent Tour Cycling participant and advocate (this was the authorauthor’’s second multis second multi--day cycle tour)day cycle tour)

•• A PeopleA People’’s Ethnographer s Ethnographer –– professionally, the author coprofessionally, the author co--founded a market research company that looks at founded a market research company that looks at ““experienceexperience””through the citizen / consumer eye: In this case, the author through the citizen / consumer eye: In this case, the author was asking was asking ““how does the uninitiated participant look at how does the uninitiated participant look at the Lake Erie Stewardship and Cycling Trails the Lake Erie Stewardship and Cycling Trails experienceexperience””??

•• A passion for (and quarterA passion for (and quarter--century career in) century career in) ““environmental environmental sciencessciences”” provides the author with a trained perspective on provides the author with a trained perspective on ecological featuresecological features

•• A professional interest in the Great Lakes and shoreline issues;A professional interest in the Great Lakes and shoreline issues;the author has sat on working committees and contributed to the author has sat on working committees and contributed to International Joint Commission studies on water quality and International Joint Commission studies on water quality and quantity, including shoreline, littoral zone and watershed quantity, including shoreline, littoral zone and watershed components components

•• A personal A personal ““historicalhistorical”” connection to southwestern Ontario connection to southwestern Ontario bioregion bioregion –– ancestors helped to adversely impact the ancestors helped to adversely impact the Carolinian Forest ecology (since the 1820Carolinian Forest ecology (since the 1820’’s) at family s) at family settlements in Essex, Kent, Elgin and Oxford countiessettlements in Essex, Kent, Elgin and Oxford counties

Personal Impacts Personal Impacts –– Historic Carolinian Habitat Historic Carolinian Habitat

Destruction by my Destruction by my ““SettlerSettler”” AncestorsAncestors

FAMILY SETTLEMENT HISTORY: Clear the Land; Heat with Wood; Fuel Steamships & Industry with Wood

Baldoon-Selkirk - 1840s [Three families]

Talbot: Norfolk-Oxford-Elgin - 1880s [Four families]

Robinson: Central Lake Ontario - 1820’s [Two families]

TRAILS SummaryTRAILS Summary

�� The Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail is an ambitious effort bThe Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail is an ambitious effort by y Carolinian Canada Coalition to link various ecological features,Carolinian Canada Coalition to link various ecological features, signature signature sites and messaging along the abundant and sensitive Lake Erie Csites and messaging along the abundant and sensitive Lake Erie Coast oast from Windsor to Fort Eriefrom Windsor to Fort Erie

�� The proposed Lake Erie (Waterfront) Cycling Route Corridor, the The proposed Lake Erie (Waterfront) Cycling Route Corridor, the subject of subject of this mobile workshop provides an excellent continuous route linkthis mobile workshop provides an excellent continuous route linking ing municipalities and municipalities and ““overlayoverlay”” features from Windsorfeatures from Windsor--Detroit to NiagaraDetroit to Niagara--BuffaloBuffalo

�� Eighteen preliminary Maps of the Lake Erie Cycling Route have beEighteen preliminary Maps of the Lake Erie Cycling Route have been en prepared by the Waterfront Trust indicating such prepared by the Waterfront Trust indicating such ““ecologicalecological”” features as features as beaches, parks, conservation areas, lookouts, marshes, natural abeaches, parks, conservation areas, lookouts, marshes, natural areasreas

�� Six preliminary Maps of the Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail Six preliminary Maps of the Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail have been have been prepared for each of the riparian countyprepared for each of the riparian county--regional municipalities along the regional municipalities along the Lake Erie shoreline including Lake Erie shoreline including http://www.carolinian.org/ConservationPrograms_CZP_Virtual.htmhttp://www.carolinian.org/ConservationPrograms_CZP_Virtual.htm

�� The linking of the Cycling and Ecology Trails is appropriate andThe linking of the Cycling and Ecology Trails is appropriate andcomplementary: significant benefits can be realized across a numcomplementary: significant benefits can be realized across a number of ber of evaluative overlays (transportationevaluative overlays (transportation--active transportation; healthactive transportation; health--active active communities; tourism/ecotourism; economic development; planning;communities; tourism/ecotourism; economic development; planning;natural heritagenatural heritage--ecology; cultural heritage) ecology; cultural heritage)

�� Many stakeholders share in the integrated planning, development,Many stakeholders share in the integrated planning, development,marketing and operation of physical assets and infrastructure acmarketing and operation of physical assets and infrastructure across the ross the numerous jurisdictions.numerous jurisdictions.

““Part of the Lake Erie Coastal Part of the Lake Erie Coastal

Stewardship TrailStewardship Trail””

The Waterfront Trust’s initiative to create a marked cycling route along the Erie shoreline and to encourage connected multi-use trails and cycling infrastructure is complementary to, and a part of the CCC Coastal Stewardship Trail enterprise.

Bicycling Lake Erie ShoresBicycling Lake Erie Shores –– The ZENThe ZEN

�� Cycling allows the rider a unique experience Cycling allows the rider a unique experience –– it is both personally it is both personally meditative and actively social. Cycling provides the opportunitmeditative and actively social. Cycling provides the opportunity for a y for a sensual touch of the visual wealth and respiration of an ecologisensual touch of the visual wealth and respiration of an ecological zone. cal zone. Cycling is at a ideal pace that allows for rest, reflection and Cycling is at a ideal pace that allows for rest, reflection and contemplation contemplation of the smallest as well as more prominent natural and cultural hof the smallest as well as more prominent natural and cultural heritage eritage features.features.

�� Cycling is an intimate and responsible way to mobilize into ecolCycling is an intimate and responsible way to mobilize into ecological ogical regions with a minimal environmental regions with a minimal environmental ““footprintfootprint””

�� This Lake Erie Bike tour covered approximately 100 km per day ovThis Lake Erie Bike tour covered approximately 100 km per day over six er six days; with scheduled mandatory workshop sessions at the beginnindays; with scheduled mandatory workshop sessions at the beginning of g of the day and at lunch hour, with daily debriefs on cyclability anthe day and at lunch hour, with daily debriefs on cyclability and d ““key key featuresfeatures”” of each segment of the proposed routeof each segment of the proposed route

�� If an Ecological Cycling Tour was to be contemplated where If an Ecological Cycling Tour was to be contemplated where ““signature signature sitessites”” and other and other ““significant natural & cultural sitessignificant natural & cultural sites”” were visit stops, the were visit stops, the pace of cycling would likely be halved to a rate of approximatelpace of cycling would likely be halved to a rate of approximately 50 km y 50 km per day (a 12per day (a 12--day Lake Erie Tour) day Lake Erie Tour)

�� The concept of The concept of ““NodesNodes”” of ecological features is appropriate to target of ecological features is appropriate to target shortershorter--term cycling adventures (dayterm cycling adventures (day--trips and weekend excursions)trips and weekend excursions)

�� Additional exposure of ecology/natural resource Additional exposure of ecology/natural resource ““touch pointstouch points”” through through active transportation including Cycle Tourism could be beneficiaactive transportation including Cycle Tourism could be beneficial to the l to the mandate of Carolinian Canada Coalition, in bringing users closermandate of Carolinian Canada Coalition, in bringing users closer to to ““signature sitessignature sites””, significant ecological features and , significant ecological features and ““teachable momentsteachable moments””(interpretive / educational resources).(interpretive / educational resources).

Mobile Workshop OverviewMobile Workshop Overview�� The mobile workshop was held along the proposed 600 km route of The mobile workshop was held along the proposed 600 km route of a Lake a Lake

Erie Cycling Trail from Windsor to Fort ErieErie Cycling Trail from Windsor to Fort Erie�� The workshop was hosted by the Waterfront Trust (and sponsors)The workshop was hosted by the Waterfront Trust (and sponsors)�� Riparian regional municipal partners included: Essex; ChathamRiparian regional municipal partners included: Essex; Chatham--Kent; Kent;

Elgin; Norfolk; Haldimand; NiagaraElgin; Norfolk; Haldimand; Niagara�� A number of local municipalities and conservation authorities alA number of local municipalities and conservation authorities also so

participated enthusiasticallyparticipated enthusiastically�� Project partners included:Project partners included:

•• CIBCCIBC•• Carolinian Canada CoalitionCarolinian Canada Coalition•• Transportation Options (Bike Train and Welcome Cyclists)Transportation Options (Bike Train and Welcome Cyclists)•• Share the Road Cycling CoalitionShare the Road Cycling Coalition

�� Workshops included representation and presentations from:Workshops included representation and presentations from:•• Municipalities on current and planned Trails, associated programMunicipalities on current and planned Trails, associated programs & s &

infrastructureinfrastructure•• VVééloQuloQuéébec Association [endbec Association [end--toto--end participation]end participation]•• Michigan Trails & Greenway AllianceMichigan Trails & Greenway Alliance•• Conservation Organizations including Carolinian Canada CoalitionConservation Organizations including Carolinian Canada Coalition•• Ontario Tourism: Regional Tourism Organization 1 Ontario Tourism: Regional Tourism Organization 1 •• International Cycle Touring AdventuresInternational Cycle Touring Adventures•• Ontario ParksOntario Parks

Evaluative Evaluative ““OverlaysOverlays””The following is a list of mapping The following is a list of mapping ““overlaysoverlays”” from which to evaluate from which to evaluate ““Regional EcologyRegional Ecology””

and and ““CyclingCycling--RecreationRecreation”” Trails [in no specific order of value or priority]Trails [in no specific order of value or priority]

�� Natural Heritage: Natural Heritage: Ecology, Natural resources, environmentEcology, Natural resources, environment

�� Tourism & EcotourismTourism & Ecotourism�� Agritourism and Local Food / Culinary TourismAgritourism and Local Food / Culinary Tourism�� Economic DevelopmentEconomic Development�� Parks & RecreationParks & Recreation�� Public Health Public Health –– Active CommunitiesActive Communities�� Transportation Transportation –– Active Transportation OptionsActive Transportation Options�� PlanningPlanning�� Cultural Heritage and Historical ResourcesCultural Heritage and Historical Resources�� Regional and Community Connection Regional and Community Connection (inter(inter--

jurisdictional)jurisdictional)

�� Markets and Marketing (integration and Markets and Marketing (integration and messaging)messaging)

�� Cycling, Cycle Tourism and Bicycling Cycling, Cycle Tourism and Bicycling ““industryindustry””

Carolinian Canada PerspectiveCarolinian Canada Perspective

�� There are many Carolinian Canada and partner ecology There are many Carolinian Canada and partner ecology ““touch touch pointspoints”” along The Lake Erie Cycling Trail Route:along The Lake Erie Cycling Trail Route:•• ““signature sightssignature sights”” with interpretive signagewith interpretive signage•• identified Carolinian featuresidentified Carolinian features•• habitathabitat•• restoration sites restoration sites •• unassessedunassessed Carolinian features awaiting groundCarolinian features awaiting ground--truthing, truthing,

documentation and mapping documentation and mapping

�� Access and Interpretive opportunities aboundAccess and Interpretive opportunities abound�� ““TrailTrail”” and pointand point--toto--point (nodal) transportation (especially point (nodal) transportation (especially

cycling) provides an outstanding opportunity to cycling) provides an outstanding opportunity to ““connect dotsconnect dots””and provide a broader and provide a broader ““Big PictureBig Picture”” of Carolinian ecologic sites, of Carolinian ecologic sites, outreach opportunities and issuesoutreach opportunities and issues

�� Awareness and access could be facilitated through a consolidatedAwareness and access could be facilitated through a consolidatedsignage and mapping approach that is easily used, understood signage and mapping approach that is easily used, understood and recognized by the uninitiated participant (as well as the and recognized by the uninitiated participant (as well as the knowledgeable membership of stakeholder groups)knowledgeable membership of stakeholder groups)

Route ObservationsRoute Observations

�� The Lake Erie Coast has an incredible wealth of The Lake Erie Coast has an incredible wealth of natural heritage and ecological featuresnatural heritage and ecological features

�� Lake Erie Cycling Route is generally accessible Lake Erie Cycling Route is generally accessible and a relatively easy cycling tour venue from the and a relatively easy cycling tour venue from the point of view of sightlines, proximity to the point of view of sightlines, proximity to the lakefront, and minimal topographical barriers lakefront, and minimal topographical barriers

�� The Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail is The Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail is generally within easy reach of 8 million generally within easy reach of 8 million Canadians (2 million in SW Ont; 6 million in Canadians (2 million in SW Ont; 6 million in Niagara to Oshawa corridor) and 20 million Niagara to Oshawa corridor) and 20 million AmericansAmericans

�� The Lake Erie Trail from DetroitThe Lake Erie Trail from Detroit--Windsor to FortWindsor to Fort--Erie Buffalo is a logical connector for the Upper Erie Buffalo is a logical connector for the Upper Tiers of the proposed US Bicycle Route System Tiers of the proposed US Bicycle Route System (routes 10;20;30;36;40) (routes 10;20;30;36;40) http://www.adventurecycling.org/routes/nbrn/USBRSCorridorMap.pdfhttp://www.adventurecycling.org/routes/nbrn/USBRSCorridorMap.pdf

Tour Arrival Tour Arrival –– September 11September 11

�� Bike Train experience from Toronto to Windsor was generally posiBike Train experience from Toronto to Windsor was generally positive tive �� This is part of the experience of This is part of the experience of ““freedom of movementfreedom of movement”” –– the inexpensive onethe inexpensive one--way way

fare (Torontofare (Toronto--Windsor) was $54 plus $20 for the bike (plus tax = $85); coach sWindsor) was $54 plus $20 for the bike (plus tax = $85); coach seating eating was relatively comfortable with ability to work on laptop computwas relatively comfortable with ability to work on laptop computer iner in--seatseat

�� Bike Train schedule in this corridor is not favourable (arrivingBike Train schedule in this corridor is not favourable (arriving in Windsor at 10 pm is in Windsor at 10 pm is not ideal)not ideal)

�� There was no directional cycling signage at Windsor station; no There was no directional cycling signage at Windsor station; no cabs with bike rackscabs with bike racks�� The VIA conductor was rushed and harried; security for offloadedThe VIA conductor was rushed and harried; security for offloaded bicycles was bicycles was

questionable; my bicycle was resting against a railing unattendequestionable; my bicycle was resting against a railing unattendedd�� The author cycled ten blocks to hotel after exiting the chaos ofThe author cycled ten blocks to hotel after exiting the chaos of the taxi lot at the the taxi lot at the

station (It was a quiet and refreshing ride through old neighboustation (It was a quiet and refreshing ride through old neighbourhoods and the rhoods and the riverfront area) riverfront area) –– a great deal of construction along Riverside Drive.a great deal of construction along Riverside Drive.

�� Hotel was friendly enough to let me sleep with my bike in room aHotel was friendly enough to let me sleep with my bike in room although moving lthough moving bicycle through lobby and elevator was awkwardbicycle through lobby and elevator was awkward

�� Opportunities:Opportunities:•• Develop an operational process to remove bicycles from baggage cDevelop an operational process to remove bicycles from baggage car in presence of owner or ar in presence of owner or

under more secure conditionsunder more secure conditions•• Improve signage for bicycle exitImprove signage for bicycle exit•• Improve signage for bicycle receiving process for inbound bikesImprove signage for bicycle receiving process for inbound bikes•• Provide bicycle racks for cyclists meeting passengersProvide bicycle racks for cyclists meeting passengers•• Encourage bicycleEncourage bicycle--friendly taxi cabsfriendly taxi cabs•• Ensure that rail stations and rail carriers (VIA) are Ensure that rail stations and rail carriers (VIA) are WelcomeCyclistWelcomeCyclist –– friendly throughout their friendly throughout their

operationsoperations•• Ensure that every stop along the route is serviced by the Ensure that every stop along the route is serviced by the BikeTrainBikeTrain

Day 1 September 12 WorkshopDay 1 September 12 Workshop

�� Marlaine Koehler, Executive Director, Waterfront Marlaine Koehler, Executive Director, Waterfront Regeneration Trust: Regeneration Trust: Lake Erie Cycling Route Lake Erie Cycling Route -- Project overview and mobile Project overview and mobile workshop outcomesworkshop outcomes

�� Alan Alan HalberstadtHalberstadt, Councillor, City of Windsor (Invited), Councillor, City of Windsor (Invited)�� JosetteJosette EugeniEugeni, Manager, Transportation Planning, City of , Manager, Transportation Planning, City of

WindsorWindsor�� John Scott, Councillor, Town of EssexJohn Scott, Councillor, Town of Essex�� Jane Jane MustacMustac, Manager, Transportation Planning, Essex , Manager, Transportation Planning, Essex

CountyCounty�� Todd Scott, Detroit Greenways Coordinator, Michigan Trails Todd Scott, Detroit Greenways Coordinator, Michigan Trails

& Greenways Alliance& Greenways Alliance�� Dan Dufour, Carolinian Canada CoalitionDan Dufour, Carolinian Canada Coalition

Windsor Waterfront Start Sept 12Windsor Waterfront Start Sept 12

A group of cyclists who participated in the Lake Erie cycling route pilot ride which took off from downtown Windsor, Ont. Monday Sept. 12, 2011, pose for a photo before taking off.

CCC en CCC en bicyclettebicyclette

Dan Dufour; Caroline Biribauer

September 12 September 12 –– Summer 26Summer 26°°

John Scott, a councillor with the town of Essex participated in the Lake Erie cycling route pilot ride which took off from downtown Windsor, Ont. Monday Sept. 12, 2011. – Windsor Star

Day 1 Day 1 -- Windsor to LeamingtonWindsor to Leamington

Leamington Leamington –– Tomato HarvestTomato Harvest

Kingsville Kingsville –– Chrysler Greenway Chrysler Greenway --ArboretumArboretum

Tulip Tree and Lake Erie VistaTulip Tree and Lake Erie Vista–– John John Park Homestead CA Park Homestead CA –– Lake Erie VistaLake Erie Vista

White Pelican sighting at Glen White Pelican sighting at Glen Eden Eden http://sally1029.wordpress.com/2011/09/14/pelicanshttp://sally1029.wordpress.com/2011/09/14/pelicans--inin--ohioohio--notnot--inin--aa--zoo/zoo/

Fort Malden, Amherstberg Fort Malden, Amherstberg ––Carolinian Forest Feature Carolinian Forest Feature (and washroom)(and washroom)

Day 1 Day 1


�� JeanJean--Francois Francois PronovostPronovost, , VVééloloQuQuéébec Association: bec Association: Profile of QuProfile of Quéébec cyclists and the bec cyclists and the Economic Benefits of Cycle TourismEconomic Benefits of Cycle Tourism

�� Dan DufourDan Dufour, , Carolinian Canada Carolinian Canada CoalitionCoalition

�� Tom Beaton, Municipality of Tom Beaton, Municipality of ChathamChatham--KentKent

Day 2 Leamington to Erieau Day 2 Leamington to Erieau --

Erieau Erieau –– MonarchMonarch’’s Swarming; toads Swarming; toad--kill on road; kill on road;

abrupt weather change from summer to fall abrupt weather change from summer to fall -- ““drinking drinking village with a fishing problemvillage with a fishing problem”” ––““ErieauErieau to Rondeau Park to Rondeau Park

BikeBike--Ferry ConceptFerry Concept””

Smith & Wilson Winery StopSmith & Wilson Winery Stop

Lake Erie Overlook Lake Erie Overlook –– Bluff Ridge Bluff Ridge with Goldenrodwith Goldenrod

Hillman MarshHillman Marsh

Point Pelee National Park Point Pelee National Park ––Carolinian FeaturesCarolinian Features

Day 2Day 2


�� Justin Lafontaine, Projects Director, Justin Lafontaine, Projects Director, Transportation Options: Transportation Options: Cycle Tourism Growth in Ontario, Bike Cycle Tourism Growth in Ontario, Bike Train and Welcome Cyclists NetworkTrain and Welcome Cyclists Network

�� Peter Peter DelantyDelanty, retired Mayor of Cobourg, retired Mayor of CobourgBenefits of the Waterfront Trail; Role of Benefits of the Waterfront Trail; Role of Municipal Partnership in its SuccessMunicipal Partnership in its Success

�� Mark Mark CustersCusters, Assistant Park , Assistant Park Superintendent for Bronte Creek, Ontario Superintendent for Bronte Creek, Ontario ParksParks

�� Lori Lori WaldbrookWaldbrook, Senior Marketing , Senior Marketing Specialist, Ontario ParksSpecialist, Ontario Parks

Day 3 Day 3 -- Erieau to Port StanleyErieau to Port Stanley

Port Stanley Beach Port Stanley Beach –– Dunes Dunes RevegetationRevegetation

Southwold Earthworks National Southwold Earthworks National Historic Site & Carolinian Historic Site & Carolinian FeaturesFeatures

OnOn--Farm MarketingFarm Marketing

Greenview Aviaries Park & Zoo Greenview Aviaries Park & Zoo (private)(private)

Erieau MarshErieau Marsh

Day 3Day 3


�� Eleanor McMahon, Founder and CEO, Eleanor McMahon, Founder and CEO, Share the Road Cycling Coalition:Share the Road Cycling Coalition:Ontario's Transportation Policy and Bicycle Ontario's Transportation Policy and Bicycle Friendly CommunitiesFriendly Communities

�� Lori Lori DaDa Silva, Chair Regional Tourism Silva, Chair Regional Tourism Organization 1Organization 1

�� Kathryn Russell, Elgin CountyKathryn Russell, Elgin County�� Jean Jean VedovaVedova, Owner, Kettle Creek Inn: , Owner, Kettle Creek Inn: International Cycle Touring Adventures International Cycle Touring Adventures and Experiencesand Experiences

�� Sarah Sarah HodgkissHodgkiss, Carolinian Canada , Carolinian Canada CoalitionCoalition

Day 4 Day 4 -- Port Stanley to Port DoverPort Stanley to Port Dover

Normandale Iron Works Normandale Iron Works –– ““stoves to stoves to

facilitate the burning of the Carolinian Forest facilitate the burning of the Carolinian Forest –– 18001800’’ss””

Winery & EcotourismWinery & Ecotourism

Long Point Long Point –– Turkey PointTurkey Point

Backus Woods Backus Woods

Hawk Cliff & RavinesHawk Cliff & Ravines

Day 4Day 4


�� Marlaine Koehler, Executive Director, Waterfront Marlaine Koehler, Executive Director, Waterfront Regeneration Trust: Regeneration Trust: Lake Erie Cycling Route Lake Erie Cycling Route -- Project overview and mobile Project overview and mobile workshop outcomesworkshop outcomes

�� BronwenBronwen Buck, Carolinian Canada CoalitionBuck, Carolinian Canada Coalition�� JeanJean--Francois Francois PronovostPronovost, , VeloVelo Quebec Association: Quebec Association:

Essential elements of a successful long distance cycling Essential elements of a successful long distance cycling routeroute

�� Eleanor McMahon, Founder and CEO, Share the Road Eleanor McMahon, Founder and CEO, Share the Road Cycling Coalition:Cycling Coalition:Ontario's Transportation Policy and Bicycle Friendly Ontario's Transportation Policy and Bicycle Friendly CommunitiesCommunities

�� Chris Baird & Mark Chris Baird & Mark BoerkampBoerkamp, Norfolk County, Norfolk County�� James James GoodramGoodram, , HaldimandHaldimand CountyCounty�� Phil Bergen, Niagara RegionPhil Bergen, Niagara Region

Day 5 Day 5 -- Port Dover to DunnvillePort Dover to Dunnville

MudcatMudcat –– ““local icon, hockey team and ecologic featurelocal icon, hockey team and ecologic feature””

Lower Grand Marsh (via kayak)Lower Grand Marsh (via kayak)

Byng Island CAByng Island CA

Selkirk Provincial ParkSelkirk Provincial Park

EcoEco--Industrial Park Industrial Park –– Nanticoke Nanticoke CycleCycle--ThroughThrough

Day 5Day 5


•• Sandy Sandy ClipshamClipsham, Carolinian Canada Coalition , Carolinian Canada Coalition �� Welcome Remarks, Mayor Vance Welcome Remarks, Mayor Vance BadaweyBadawey, City , City of Port Colborneof Port Colborne

�� Go around discussion on ride: One positive Go around discussion on ride: One positive comment, one needs improvementcomment, one needs improvementModerated by Vicki Barron, Waterfront Moderated by Vicki Barron, Waterfront Regeneration TrustRegeneration Trust

�� EndEnd--toto--end group reflections on 5 days of cycling end group reflections on 5 days of cycling the Lake Erie Cycling Routethe Lake Erie Cycling Route

�� Marlaine Koehler, Executive Director, Waterfront Marlaine Koehler, Executive Director, Waterfront Regeneration Trust: Regeneration Trust: Lake Erie Cycling Route Lake Erie Cycling Route –– Mobile Workshop Wrap Mobile Workshop Wrap UpUp

Day 6 Day 6 -- Dunnville to Fort ErieDunnville to Fort Erie

Great Lakes Great Lakes Water Quality AgreementWater Quality Agreement

(reminder of positive impact on Lake Erie shores)(reminder of positive impact on Lake Erie shores)

Second Growth Carolinian Tree Second Growth Carolinian Tree Remnants at Fort ErieRemnants at Fort Erie

Heritage Trail Marsh OverlooksHeritage Trail Marsh Overlooks

Wainfleet MorganWainfleet Morgan’’s Point CA s Point CA

Niagara Long Beach RestorationNiagara Long Beach Restoration

Day 6Day 6

Theme Theme –– Lake VistasLake Vistas

Theme Theme –– Signature SitesSignature Sites

Theme Theme –– TrailsTrails

Theme Theme –– TourismTourism

Theme Theme –– Insects & WildlifeInsects & Wildlife

Theme Theme –– BirdsBirds

Theme Theme –– TreesTrees

Theme Theme -- NourishmentNourishment

Theme Theme –– Agriculture LinkagesAgriculture Linkages

Theme Theme -- SignageSignage

Theme Theme –– Community ConnectionCommunity Connection

Theme Theme –– Industrial Interfaces Industrial Interfaces

ZEN: ZEN: Cycling, Ecology & Ecotourism ConnectionsCycling, Ecology & Ecotourism Connections

Definition of Ecotourism (International Ecotourism Society):Definition of Ecotourism (International Ecotourism Society):““Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environmeResponsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves nt and improves the wellthe well--being of local peoplebeing of local people””

Excerpt from the Quebec Declaration on Ecotourism 2002Excerpt from the Quebec Declaration on Ecotourism 2002http://www.gdrc.org/uem/ecohttp://www.gdrc.org/uem/eco--tour/quebectour/quebec--declaration.pdfdeclaration.pdf

Ecotourism includes an additional focus on :Ecotourism includes an additional focus on :

�� contributions to both environmental and cultural conservation contributions to both environmental and cultural conservation �� inclusive of local communities in all aspects of development, plinclusive of local communities in all aspects of development, planning, etc. anning, etc. �� involves an experiential and interpretive component involves an experiential and interpretive component �� is developed specifically for small group sizes and individuals is developed specifically for small group sizes and individuals

Minimum Impact, Maximum ExperienceMinimum Impact, Maximum Experience[[motomoto: Ontario Ecotourism Society] : Ontario Ecotourism Society] http://http://www.toes.ca/?page_idwww.toes.ca/?page_id=83=83

Cycling, CycleTourism and Ecotourism are complementary activities which support the sustainable, inclusive, experiential and interpretive focus of the active transportation, ecotourism and conservation movements. Cycling is a form of sustainable, responsible travel (along with hiking-running-walking / canoe-kayaking-rowing-sailing / group transit) that respects the conservation of resources and the quiet, non-invasive experience of ecologic environments and natural heritage. - Doug Vallery

The author’s photo journal of the Lake Erie Bicycle Trail Workshop is available at:

https://picasaweb.google.com/113675351760523726131/LakeErieCyclingRouteLeadersMobileWorkshop?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCMm0tuCGprGJOw&feat=directlink

Workshop Summation Workshop Summation ––

Highlights & ConclusionsHighlights & Conclusions

�� The Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail concept is an ambitious The Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail concept is an ambitious program to draw together the rich natural heritage resources of program to draw together the rich natural heritage resources of the Lake Erie shoreline and to provide a focus for ecological the Lake Erie shoreline and to provide a focus for ecological conservation, restoration & educationconservation, restoration & education

�� The development of a regional lakeshoreThe development of a regional lakeshore--oriented Bicycle Route oriented Bicycle Route as a connector for existing or planned municipal cycling and Traas a connector for existing or planned municipal cycling and Trail il systems is highly desirable; Bicycle access and infrastructure systems is highly desirable; Bicycle access and infrastructure promotion in this region is highly desirable and a complementarypromotion in this region is highly desirable and a complementary““responsibleresponsible”” transportation modetransportation mode

�� Ecological and Conservation designation and signage could be Ecological and Conservation designation and signage could be improved, to direct cyclists and other users to improved, to direct cyclists and other users to ““signature sitessignature sites””features, vistas and interpretive / educational opportunities features, vistas and interpretive / educational opportunities

�� Mapping resources amongst stakeholders could be developed Mapping resources amongst stakeholders could be developed collaboratively to yield the best possible directional and featucollaboratively to yield the best possible directional and feature re information for multiple types of users.information for multiple types of users.

�� Cycle Tourism and Ecotourism are highCycle Tourism and Ecotourism are high--growth opportunities for growth opportunities for stakeholders to seize and aggressively advancestakeholders to seize and aggressively advance

�� There are numerous There are numerous “”“”business opportunitiesbusiness opportunities”” that are foreseen that are foreseen as part of the economic development potential:as part of the economic development potential:

Workshop Summary (continued)Workshop Summary (continued)

Business OpportunitiesBusiness Opportunities

Examples:Examples:Tour development linked to ecological sites and active transportTour development linked to ecological sites and active transportationation�� Event management & hosting for regional cycling eventsEvent management & hosting for regional cycling events�� Technology Technology –– rapid asphalting for improved trail and cycling paths and pavedrapid asphalting for improved trail and cycling paths and paved

shoulders on roadwaysshoulders on roadways�� Signage consulting, design, material and printing, installationSignage consulting, design, material and printing, installation and maintenance for and maintenance for

tourism and ecology tourism and ecology ““overlaysoverlays””�� Ecological and tourism journalism; media development (magazines;Ecological and tourism journalism; media development (magazines; documentaries; documentaries;

travelogues)travelogues)�� Marketing Communications and Ecological Interpretive Messaging CMarketing Communications and Ecological Interpretive Messaging Consultation and onsultation and �� Mapping technology Mapping technology –– improvements to include and enhance spatial improvements to include and enhance spatial ““overlaysoverlays”” and and

multimulti--stakeholder inputsstakeholder inputs�� Bicycle manufacturing and support equipmentBicycle manufacturing and support equipment�� Bicycle retail and service shopsBicycle retail and service shops�� MultiMulti--use Trail construction and maintenanceuse Trail construction and maintenance�� Media development: High DefinitionTravelogues of Shoreline, RoutMedia development: High DefinitionTravelogues of Shoreline, Routes and Siteses and Sites�� Media development: Games and Exercise Videos including Media development: Games and Exercise Videos including ““virtual realityvirtual reality”” of Lake of Lake

Erie Shoreline Route and ecological / tourism featuresErie Shoreline Route and ecological / tourism features�� Small business services for active transportation Small business services for active transportation –– examples:examples:

•• Pedestrian and Cycle ferry from Erieau to Rondeau ParkPedestrian and Cycle ferry from Erieau to Rondeau Park•• Pedestrian and Cycle ferry from Long Point to Turkey PointPedestrian and Cycle ferry from Long Point to Turkey Point•• Ecotourism guides, outfitters associated with specific features Ecotourism guides, outfitters associated with specific features (e.g. Rondeau Marsh; Lower (e.g. Rondeau Marsh; Lower

Grand Wetlands etc.)Grand Wetlands etc.)•• ““cyclecycle--tour support servicestour support services”” including destination transport of luggage and purchases of including destination transport of luggage and purchases of

cyclists; roadside assistancecyclists; roadside assistance

The List of new and existing business opportunities to support Cycle Tourism is significant. Many of these businesses are “micro” or small businesses that are local and sustainable. Cycle Tourism in southwestern Ontario can extend the “summer season” by five months, thereby providing increased demand and utilization of existing tourism facilities and infrastructure. This is the start of a long list of economic development opportunities:


Business Opportunities (continued)Business Opportunities (continued)

Examples of Bicycle Industry and Cycle Tourism Business OpportunExamples of Bicycle Industry and Cycle Tourism Business Opportunities:ities:

�� VISTAVISTA program development program development –– supported stops with access to lake vistas and supported stops with access to lake vistas and ““featurefeature”” views views

�� CyclistCyclist--Friendly Rest Stops Friendly Rest Stops -- (e.g. Welcome Cyclist)(e.g. Welcome Cyclist)–– businesses supporting businesses supporting infrastructure, operation and maintenance of destination shoreliinfrastructure, operation and maintenance of destination shoreline / Trail access ne / Trail access points approximately every 10points approximately every 10--20 kilometres including portable washrooms with 20 kilometres including portable washrooms with hand sanitizer; local tourism information; ecological interpretahand sanitizer; local tourism information; ecological interpretation; running water at tion; running water at site / cooling spraysite / cooling spray--showers; air pumps and small hardwareshowers; air pumps and small hardware

�� PopPop--up Cyclist Overnight Parks (tenting, cooking and toilets/showersup Cyclist Overnight Parks (tenting, cooking and toilets/showers))�� Alternative Meal Offers (e.g. Farmstead meals) Alternative Meal Offers (e.g. Farmstead meals) �� Portable Toilet industry supplying restPortable Toilet industry supplying rest--stopsstops�� Nursery Horticulture and Landscape suppliers centred on private Nursery Horticulture and Landscape suppliers centred on private landscape landscape

regeneration and supply of regeneration vegetation to ecologicalregeneration and supply of regeneration vegetation to ecological and restoration sitesand restoration sites�� Landscape and Feature Designers and Contractors Landscape and Feature Designers and Contractors –– ““Designing memorable spacesDesigning memorable spaces””�� OffOff--road activity and entertainment: first aid; massage; yoga; bar aroad activity and entertainment: first aid; massage; yoga; bar and club venues; nd club venues;

shoppingshopping�� Accommodations and Food ServiceAccommodations and Food Service�� Secure bicycle racking and storageSecure bicycle racking and storage�� Inbound service transportation from Inbound service transportation from ““nodesnodes”” (e.g. train stations)(e.g. train stations)


Adjoining BestAdjoining Best--Practice Models Practice Models Detroit (USA) & Detroit (USA) & VeloQuebecVeloQuebec (Canada)(Canada)

Our Our NeighboursNeighbours have demonstrated significant progress & success:have demonstrated significant progress & success:

�� VeloQuebecVeloQuebec is a successful model for bicycle route development and is a successful model for bicycle route development and cyclecycle--tourism tourism -- this notthis not--forfor--profit is a membershipprofit is a membership--based organization based organization touching a quartertouching a quarter--million Quebecers annually with an uncomplicated, million Quebecers annually with an uncomplicated, consistent message, clean branding and marketing. VQ also acts consistent message, clean branding and marketing. VQ also acts as as lobbyist, consultant, media group (magazines), tour operator andlobbyist, consultant, media group (magazines), tour operator and travel travel agency in conjunction with a highly motivated public Provincial agency in conjunction with a highly motivated public Provincial partner partner (MTQ) (MTQ) http://www.velo.qc.ca/en/Homehttp://www.velo.qc.ca/en/Home

�� VeloQuebecVeloQuebec’’s associated Route Verte is rated as the best cycling trail s associated Route Verte is rated as the best cycling trail network in the world by National Geographicnetwork in the world by National Geographic

�� Montreal is ranked #8 in the world for BikeMontreal is ranked #8 in the world for Bike--Friendliness Friendliness ““Montreal is North Montreal is North AmericaAmerica’’s premiere bicycle city s premiere bicycle city …… Read more: Read more: http://www.montrealgazette.com/travel/Bike+friendly+Montreal+tophttp://www.montrealgazette.com/travel/Bike+friendly+Montreal+tops+North+Ameris+North+America/5432884/story.html#ixzz1a0vDu0W6ca/5432884/story.html#ixzz1a0vDu0W6

�� Quebec could be considered a Quebec could be considered a ““maturemature”” cycling market (with room for additional cycling market (with room for additional growth) growth) -- with well over 50% actively cycling at least oncewith well over 50% actively cycling at least once--aa--week; and a large week; and a large percentage of nonpercentage of non--cyclers interested in taking up the activitycyclers interested in taking up the activity

�� Detroit is ranked in the top ten of World Bicycling CitiesDetroit is ranked in the top ten of World Bicycling Cities, and is a , and is a leading urban jurisdiction in the US, employing nonleading urban jurisdiction in the US, employing non--motorized motorized transportation as a driver for retransportation as a driver for re--development, public health, development, public health, neighbourhood regeneration and community connection neighbourhood regeneration and community connection http://www.detroitmi.gov/Portals/0/docs/planning/planning/nonmothttp://www.detroitmi.gov/Portals/0/docs/planning/planning/nonmotor/Nonmotorized_Urban_Transportation_Master_Plan.pdfor/Nonmotorized_Urban_Transportation_Master_Plan.pdf


Facilitating Technologies Facilitating Technologies are also essential for rapid infrastructure deployment within thare also essential for rapid infrastructure deployment within this sectoris sector

Examples:Examples:The accelerated paving of key regional roadway shoulders would The accelerated paving of key regional roadway shoulders would go a long way to creating a comprehensive cycling network and go a long way to creating a comprehensive cycling network and stronger regional connections:stronger regional connections:

�� Rapid Shoulder Paving (Michigan):Rapid Shoulder Paving (Michigan):

•• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLCSo764Ihttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLCSo764IOQOQ

�� Cold Weather Asphalt Paving (Hwy 417 Cold Weather Asphalt Paving (Hwy 417 Ottawa)Ottawa)

•• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4w3Ukz4http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4w3Ukz461M&feature=related61M&feature=related


Economics of CyclingEconomics of CyclingOVERALL ECONOMIC PROFILEOVERALL ECONOMIC PROFILE

Excerpt from Excerpt from The Economic Benefits of Bicycle Infrastructure InvestmentsThe Economic Benefits of Bicycle Infrastructure Investments

League of American Bicyclists; Darren League of American Bicyclists; Darren FluscheFlusche, Policy Analyst, June 2009, Policy Analyst, June 2009�� The US national bicycling industry contributes an estimated The US national bicycling industry contributes an estimated $133 billion $133 billion a year to the economy.a year to the economy.�� It supports nearly 1.1 million jobs and generates $17.7 billion It supports nearly 1.1 million jobs and generates $17.7 billion in federal, state, and local taxes. in federal, state, and local taxes.

Another $46.9 billion is spent on meals, transportation, lodgingAnother $46.9 billion is spent on meals, transportation, lodging, gifts and entertainment during , gifts and entertainment during bike trips and tours.bike trips and tours.

Assumed Ontario Assumed Ontario ““NumbersNumbers”” based on the US Studybased on the US Study

Assuming a 1:28 ratio (population proportion between the US and Assuming a 1:28 ratio (population proportion between the US and Ontario) and a similar Ontario) and a similar penetration of cycling, the following is an extrapolated Ontariopenetration of cycling, the following is an extrapolated Ontario industry profile:industry profile:•• Provincial cycling industry is contributing $ 5 billion a year tProvincial cycling industry is contributing $ 5 billion a year to the Canadian economyo the Canadian economy•• An additional $ 1.675 billion is spent on meals, transportation,An additional $ 1.675 billion is spent on meals, transportation, lodging, gifts and lodging, gifts and

entertainment during bike trips and toursentertainment during bike trips and tours•• It supports 40,000 jobs and generates $632 million in taxation rIt supports 40,000 jobs and generates $632 million in taxation revenuesevenues

HEALTH COST SAVINGSHEALTH COST SAVINGS

�� HEALTH CARE OUTCOMESHEALTH CARE OUTCOMES are characterized by the improved health of the general cyclingare characterized by the improved health of the general cyclingpopulace; cycling is a preventative health activity reducing dirpopulace; cycling is a preventative health activity reducing direct public health demands and ect public health demands and expendituresexpenditures“…“…biking represents a triple win. It reduces local air pollution, biking represents a triple win. It reduces local air pollution, does not produce greenhouse gases does not produce greenhouse gases

and keeps people fit.and keeps people fit.”” –– University of Wisconsin Research Paper University of Wisconsin Research Paper http://http://www.sage.wisc.edu/people/patz/UWmedpubhealth_article.pdfwww.sage.wisc.edu/people/patz/UWmedpubhealth_article.pdf

•• Based on World Health Organization estimates of reduced mortalitBased on World Health Organization estimates of reduced mortality savings, active cycling in y savings, active cycling in Quebec generates $50 million annually in Health BenefitsQuebec generates $50 million annually in Health Benefits

•• If Ontario shared a similar penetration of active cycling as QueIf Ontario shared a similar penetration of active cycling as Quebec, the Ontario Annual Health bec, the Ontario Annual Health Benefit would be extrapolated to $87 millionBenefit would be extrapolated to $87 million

Workshop Summary (continued) Workshop Summary (continued)

Economics of CyclingEconomics of Cycling�� EXPLOSIVE GROWTHEXPLOSIVE GROWTH

The last decade has seen significant increase in bicycle users aThe last decade has seen significant increase in bicycle users across a number of cross a number of transport and recreation interests:transport and recreation interests:

�� Commuting; short domestic trippingCommuting; short domestic tripping�� Day trips Day trips –– Pleasure cycling Pleasure cycling –– Family ActivityFamily Activity�� Sport (group & competitive)Sport (group & competitive)�� Health & ExerciseHealth & Exercise�� Touring (multiTouring (multi--day trips and events)day trips and events)�� Social Social –– Local Club Activity; Regional EventsLocal Club Activity; Regional Events�� Personal Personal –– ““getawaygetaway”” and quiet enjoyment; exploration and discovery in an and quiet enjoyment; exploration and discovery in an

intimate spatial frameworkintimate spatial framework�� Infrastructure Development in association with dedicated and mulInfrastructure Development in association with dedicated and multiti--use use

TrailsTrails•• Bicycle Commuting has grown by up to 77% in the US in the last dBicycle Commuting has grown by up to 77% in the US in the last decade in 38 ecade in 38

BicycleBicycle--Friendly Communities Friendly Communities (American Community Survey, League of American Bicyclists)(American Community Survey, League of American Bicyclists)

�� TOUR CYCLING BENEFITSTOUR CYCLING BENEFITS

•• SingleSingle--Day and MultiDay and Multi--Day Tourism Dollars spent (Economic Development Day Tourism Dollars spent (Economic Development Benefits) are significant Benefits) are significant –– averaging up to $150 per day per cyclistaveraging up to $150 per day per cyclist

•• Research has shown that a Tour Cyclist spends more in a tourism Research has shown that a Tour Cyclist spends more in a tourism region than a region than a motoring tourist (tour cyclists carry less and are more reliant motoring tourist (tour cyclists carry less and are more reliant on purchasing on purchasing necessities along the route, and at a slower pace)necessities along the route, and at a slower pace)

•• Providing Tourism services to support Cycle Tourism can extend tProviding Tourism services to support Cycle Tourism can extend the he ““summer summer tourist seasontourist season”” by up to five months in SW Ontario, to include operations from by up to five months in SW Ontario, to include operations from midmid--April, thru May and June, and from Labour Day thru mid November.April, thru May and June, and from Labour Day thru mid November.

Workshop Summary (contWorkshop Summary (cont’’d) d) Economics of CyclingEconomics of Cycling

�� TRANSPORTATION OFFSET BENEFITSTRANSPORTATION OFFSET BENEFITS –– With safer corridors, many With safer corridors, many more Ontarians would commute and recreate by bicycle. This woulmore Ontarians would commute and recreate by bicycle. This would result d result in motorized trafficin motorized traffic--transport reductions and reduced demand for major transport reductions and reduced demand for major capital programs for transit & transportation infrastructure; capital programs for transit & transportation infrastructure; Active Active Transportation is a viable alternativeTransportation is a viable alternative

�� PERSONAL COST BENEFITSPERSONAL COST BENEFITS –– freedom and flexibility freedom and flexibility -- mobility and mobility and accessibility; Cycling is a least cost mode of transportation inaccessibility; Cycling is a least cost mode of transportation in terms of terms of personal investment, public infrastructure, maintenance and parkpersonal investment, public infrastructure, maintenance and parking ing options; Cycling can also save precious time that would otherwisoptions; Cycling can also save precious time that would otherwise be e be invested in motor vehicle maintenance or the slower pace of walkinvested in motor vehicle maintenance or the slower pace of walking; ing; transportations savings are invested elsewheretransportations savings are invested elsewhere

�� AMENITY BENEFITAMENITY BENEFIT –– Development of associated trail amenities and Development of associated trail amenities and biking infrastructure (providing improved access and perceived abiking infrastructure (providing improved access and perceived amenity) menity) increases Property Values, Community Connection and Neighbourhooincreases Property Values, Community Connection and Neighbourhood d DistinctionDistinction


Tour Cycling as a BusinessTour Cycling as a Business

The The ““Bike Ontario ToursBike Ontario Tours”” SurveySurvey

CHARACTERISTICS OF BICYCLE TOURISTS in ONTARIOCHARACTERISTICS OF BICYCLE TOURISTS in ONTARIO(Exclusive Data Based On Bike ON Tours Customer Survey) (Exclusive Data Based On Bike ON Tours Customer Survey) �� Tour Cyclists are primarily age 30 to 55Tour Cyclists are primarily age 30 to 55; in our research it was found that 44% are age 30 to 45, 33% ar; in our research it was found that 44% are age 30 to 45, 33% are age 46 e age 46

to 55, 6% are age 56 to 65 and 17% are under age 30. to 55, 6% are age 56 to 65 and 17% are under age 30. �� Tour Cyclists hold professional jobs most with annual incomes ofTour Cyclists hold professional jobs most with annual incomes of over $60 000over $60 000; in our research it was found ; in our research it was found

that 47% had annual incomes of $60 000. to $80 000.,18% had annuthat 47% had annual incomes of $60 000. to $80 000.,18% had annual incomes of over $80 000.,12% had annual al incomes of over $80 000.,12% had annual incomes of $40 000. to $60 000. and 23% had incomes under $40 00incomes of $40 000. to $60 000. and 23% had incomes under $40 000. 0.

�� Tour Cyclists enjoy eating out, canoeing, camping, hiking, theatTour Cyclists enjoy eating out, canoeing, camping, hiking, theatre, shopping, museums/historic sites, water re, shopping, museums/historic sites, water sports/swimming/beachessports/swimming/beaches; our research found these to be the most popular interests in d; our research found these to be the most popular interests in declining order of eclining order of frequencyfrequency while other interests mentioned include sight seeing, golfing, swhile other interests mentioned include sight seeing, golfing, skiing and walking kiing and walking

WHAT ATTRACTS Cycle TouristsWHAT ATTRACTS Cycle Tourists�� bicycle friendly streets and paths bicycle friendly streets and paths -- wide enough for bicycles and other users wide enough for bicycles and other users �� access to scenic roads, natural areas, waterfront, cultural and access to scenic roads, natural areas, waterfront, cultural and historic attractions historic attractions �� good restaurants good restaurants �� accommodation with a hearty breakfast either provided or nearby accommodation with a hearty breakfast either provided or nearby �� bicycle repair shops and other interesting stores bicycle repair shops and other interesting stores �� adequate and secure bicycle parking adequate and secure bicycle parking �� theatre, music and arts festivals theatre, music and arts festivals �� route maps and effective advertising route maps and effective advertising

"Reprinted courtesy of "Reprinted courtesy of Bike ON ToursBike ON Tours-- Ontario CanadaOntario Canada-- Route Guides For Bicycle TouringRoute Guides For Bicycle Touring-- ConsultingConsulting--http://www.bikeontours.on.ca/tourism.htm" http://www.bikeontours.on.ca/tourism.htm"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TourCyclistsTourCyclists can spend over $150 daily while on a supported ride, for food can spend over $150 daily while on a supported ride, for food lodging and incidentalslodging and incidentals

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The The favourablefavourable climate of Southwestern Ontario extends the Cycling Season poteclimate of Southwestern Ontario extends the Cycling Season potentially from April through Novemberntially from April through November

ThoughtsThoughts

Marketing & BrandingMarketing & Branding�� Natural Heritage, ecology and naturalist organizations should coNatural Heritage, ecology and naturalist organizations should come together to me together to

create a unified marketing / branding approach to ecological / ncreate a unified marketing / branding approach to ecological / natural heritage site atural heritage site development, direction signage and interpretive experience. development, direction signage and interpretive experience.

�� Along the Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail, there are a numbeAlong the Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail, there are a number of differing r of differing signage treatments depending on the sponsor and themesignage treatments depending on the sponsor and theme

�� A new signage approach to identify bicycle and multiA new signage approach to identify bicycle and multi--use trail routes and features use trail routes and features (universal identifiers; prominent directional arrows and distanc(universal identifiers; prominent directional arrows and distance markings; followed e markings; followed by additional detail by additional detail ““below the linebelow the line””) would be a .) would be a .

�� A new signage approach to identify ecology features and conservaA new signage approach to identify ecology features and conservation measures is tion measures is desirable desirable

�� An integrated approach is needed to develop a userAn integrated approach is needed to develop a user--friendly mapping system with friendly mapping system with opportunities for informational opportunities for informational ““overlaysoverlays””

�� The Waterfront Trust has done outstanding work in motivating andThe Waterfront Trust has done outstanding work in motivating and building for building for waterfront reconnection and trails in Ontario waterfront reconnection and trails in Ontario -- as more trails are established on other as more trails are established on other Great Lakes Waterfronts, attention should be paid to ensuring thGreat Lakes Waterfronts, attention should be paid to ensuring that all trails receive at all trails receive equal branding support and a consistent signage treatment that iequal branding support and a consistent signage treatment that is simple and s simple and informative informative

�� Signage for cyclists needs to be highly recognizable from a distSignage for cyclists needs to be highly recognizable from a distance and at a glance; ance and at a glance; simple symbols, directional arrows and bold distance numbers shosimple symbols, directional arrows and bold distance numbers should be employed as uld be employed as the first level of recognition; additional layers of detail can the first level of recognition; additional layers of detail can be added in subordinate be added in subordinate locations) locations)

�� A standard, crossA standard, cross--jurisdictional ecological signage framework is suggested (next jurisdictional ecological signage framework is suggested (next slide) [this is a preliminary concept requiring additional conslide) [this is a preliminary concept requiring additional consultation & research]sultation & research]

ThoughtsThoughts

Ecological Signage FrameworkEcological Signage FrameworkThere is a wide array of inconsistent directional and interpretive signage that is experienced along the

Lake Erie Coast. What is required in directional signage for cyclists and other responsible travellers is visibility & simple recognition followed up with more detail and “interpretation” at the destination.

Below is a “top-of-mind” framework for a consistent approach to identification and “direction” to sites.

This is the start of a conversation that requires much more thought:

Category Sub-Descriptor Component Direction/

Distance

Function - Accessibility Amenity Name Behavioural

(arrow /

metres-kms)

(actual name

or description)

Habitat Old Growth Wildlife Trail - Multi Use Vehicle Parking Silence

Migratory Feature Restoration Wildlife - Endangered Trail - Hiking Only Bicycle Parking No Movement off-Trail

Nesting Area Endangered Vegetation Trail - Cycling Only Ramp to Waterway No Removal of Bark-

Vegentation

Conservation Area - Multi Feature Natural Regeneration Vegetation -

Endangered

Beach Shoreline Dock Stay on Trail / Path

Park - Multi Feature Reforestation Geologic Feature Vista-Viewing Area Rest Area Stop for Reptiles on Road

Wetland Reserve Topographic Feature Water Access Tables / Benches Stop for Road Animals

Physical Feature Industrial Feature

Impacting Ecology

Interpretive / Educational Tent Camping

Settlement Feature

Impacting Ecology

Vehicle - Parkway Vehicle Camping

Showers

Water Misting

Additional Footnote Information:

- Sponsor(s)

- QR Codes for reference to more detailed information, as well as for multi-language capability

- References

- Research Resources

- Geographical Coordinates

Ecological Signage Framework

ThoughtsThoughts

Evaluating Cycling InfrastructureEvaluating Cycling Infrastructure

NAME:_________________________ DATE:______________________ Response Format LOCATION / Comment

ORGANIZATION: _____________________________________________ Negative Neutral Positive

ROUTE-TRAIL: _______________________________________________ 1 2 3 4 5

SEGMENT: __________________________________________________ Yes No N/A Issue

OVERALL MARKETABILITY of TRAIL/SEGMENT

OVERALL ROUTE / SEGMENT RATING

OVERALL CYCLABILITY RATING

MARKET OBSERVATIONS

How well used is the trail / segment open-end or menu

Who is using the trail (multi-modal and cycling; demographics/groupings) listing

Are there observable patterns of usage in this Trail/Segment open-end

Which features on this Trail/segment are popular listing

Which features on this Trail/segment are underutilized listing

Are there usage conflicts between multiple users open-end

CURRENT MARKETING FEATURES

What are the key features of this trail/segment that are marketable listing

How are these features currently marketed? listing

Rate the Marketed Features of this Trail/Segment rating

MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES

What are the key opportunities to improve marketing of this Trail/Segment open-end

Are there specific opportunities to improve marketing open-end

Is the infrastructure in place to support increased usage open-end

Rate the "marketability" of this Trail/segment rating

ROUTE DIRECTNESS / COHERENCE / SIGNAGE / MAPS / SAFETY

Does the Route "flow" from a user perspective open-end

Are available maps suitable and useful (and integrated) open-end

Is there signage in place that instructs the coherence of the Trail/Segment open-end

What suggestions do you have to improve this Trail/Segment open-end

Are there specific safety issues that need to be addressed in this Trail/Segment open-end

Are there intersections that will require special treatments open-end

AESTHETICS; COMFORT & CONVENIENCE; ACCESS to AMENITIES

Are there adequate commercial facilities along the Trail/Segment Y/N & open-end

Are there adequate rest facilities along the Trail/Segment Y/N & open-end

Rate the Comfort and Convenience of this Trail/Segment rating

CONNECTIONS: INTERJURISDICTIONAL; TOURISM & ECOTOURISM

Are there opportunities to improve "connectedness" along this Trail/Segment open-end

Rate the potential of this Trail/Segment as a draw for users (increased tourism and

economic benefits) rating

© Experience Renewal Solutions Inc, Waterfront Regeneration Trust, Carolinian Canada Coalition

CYCLING ROUTE-TRAIL ASSESSMENT TOOL - Market Focus Beta 2011

RATINGACTION

Factor

Is it possible to deploy simplified, common tools for accelerated Infrastructure Evaluation, Specification, [Re] Development & Implementation?

Is Consensus and Effective, Comprehensive Action Possible amongst all these “interests”?

Thoughts

The CYCLING ECOSYSTEM in ONTARIO

ThoughtsThoughts

Political Impressions Political Impressions from the citizenfrom the citizen’’s perspectives perspective

�� There has been little There has been little ““senior governmentsenior government”” movement forward movement forward since since ““The Ontario Bike Plan February 2008The Ontario Bike Plan February 2008”” (42 months), despite (42 months), despite the Environmental Commissioner of Ontariothe Environmental Commissioner of Ontario’’s suggestion in s suggestion in

�� The Active Transportation The Active Transportation –– Active Communities Movement is Active Communities Movement is grassgrass--roots and led by municipalities roots and led by municipalities –– there is a strong interest in there is a strong interest in developing cycling and active living programs and infrastructuredeveloping cycling and active living programs and infrastructurebased on healthy community needs, sustainable planning and based on healthy community needs, sustainable planning and economic opportunity economic opportunity

�� Organizations such as the Waterfront Trust, Transportation Organizations such as the Waterfront Trust, Transportation Options and Share the Road Coalition have created strong value Options and Share the Road Coalition have created strong value and lead by example within a political vacuum at senior levelsand lead by example within a political vacuum at senior levels

�� Classic interjurisdictional Classic interjurisdictional ““who does whatwho does what”” argument is stalling argument is stalling effective actioneffective action

�� Funding sources and formula are complicated and not integratedFunding sources and formula are complicated and not integrated�� Organization on the cyclistOrganization on the cyclist--useruser--membership side is fragmented in membership side is fragmented in

Ontario and Canada and uncoordinated Ontario and Canada and uncoordinated –– senior governments use senior governments use the excuse that the message is not the excuse that the message is not ““representativerepresentative”” –– there is no there is no perceived interest group with a single voiceperceived interest group with a single voice

ThoughtsThoughts

National & Ontario Bicycle PolicyNational & Ontario Bicycle Policy

�� Top down leadership is required for funding and modelTop down leadership is required for funding and model--program development responding to an effective, program development responding to an effective, representative citizen lobby grouprepresentative citizen lobby group

�� Ontario Cyclists need to organize into a cohesive Ontario Cyclists need to organize into a cohesive membership group in order to gain a higher level of membership group in order to gain a higher level of visibilityvisibility

�� Active Transportation Policy should be a priority Active Transportation Policy should be a priority before or before or concurrent withconcurrent with public investment in more expensive capital public investment in more expensive capital transportation projectstransportation projects

�� Active Transportation and Active Communities movement is Active Transportation and Active Communities movement is a multia multi--jurisdictional grass routes movement keying on jurisdictional grass routes movement keying on health and community connection health and community connection

�� Immediate investment and funding for localImmediate investment and funding for local--municipal municipal cycling and trail infrastructure including connections to cycling and trail infrastructure including connections to regional bicycle route regional bicycle route ““connectorsconnectors”” should be a top priorityshould be a top priority

�� Integration of an ecological overlay into trail network Integration of an ecological overlay into trail network development is an development is an ““added valueadded value”” for user enjoyment and for user enjoyment and educationeducation

ThoughtsThoughts

Senior Government Policy Framework Senior Government Policy Framework from a Laymanfrom a Layman’’s Points Point--ofof--ViewViewSenior governments need to step up and show leadership for an acSenior governments need to step up and show leadership for an accelerated Cycling and Active Transportation program, celerated Cycling and Active Transportation program, possibly involving the following:possibly involving the following:

�� Aggressive support for Active Transportation at the municipal leAggressive support for Active Transportation at the municipal level, including funding and operational frameworks to streamline vel, including funding and operational frameworks to streamline implementation (at costimplementation (at cost--benefit ratios far exceeding any other type of transportation inbenefit ratios far exceeding any other type of transportation investment)vestment)

�� Regulations that require all new roadway construction to follow Regulations that require all new roadway construction to follow ““complete roadcomplete road”” design specifications (including design specifications (including bikeabilitybikeability and and walkabilitywalkability))

�� Key Provincial regional routes designated and immediately upgradKey Provincial regional routes designated and immediately upgraded to include restriping and/or paved shoulders specifically to ed to include restriping and/or paved shoulders specifically to facilitate facilitate local and regional safe cycling and active transportation local and regional safe cycling and active transportation –– Example Routes:Example Routes:•• Highway 2 Highway 2 –– Windsor to Quebec and including a Lake Ontario Waterfront TrailWindsor to Quebec and including a Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail InfillInfill•• Former Highway 3 (Talbot Trail) from Fort Erie to Windsor Former Highway 3 (Talbot Trail) from Fort Erie to Windsor –– Lake Erie Waterfront Trail InfillLake Erie Waterfront Trail Infill•• Highways 40/7/21/26 Highways 40/7/21/26 –– forming a Lake St. Clairforming a Lake St. Clair--Lake Huron Blue Water TrailLake Huron Blue Water Trail•• Highway 6 Highway 6 –– forming a Southforming a South--Central Ontario Cycling Trail from Port Dover to TobermoryCentral Ontario Cycling Trail from Port Dover to Tobermory•• Highway 17 Highway 17 –– Quebec Border to Manitoba Border west of KenoraQuebec Border to Manitoba Border west of Kenora•• Highway 11 Highway 11 –– Lake Ontario to Manitoba Border west of Rainy RiverLake Ontario to Manitoba Border west of Rainy River•• Highway 12/69 Highway 12/69 –– Collingwood to Sudbury forming a Georgian Bay TrailCollingwood to Sudbury forming a Georgian Bay Trail•• Highway 15 Highway 15 –– Rideau Route Rideau Route –– Kingston to OttawaKingston to Ottawa•• Highway 33 Highway 33 –– Trenton to Kingston (Loyalist Route)Trenton to Kingston (Loyalist Route)•• Highway 28/41 Highway 28/41 –– Port Hope to Pembroke Port Hope to Pembroke –– EastEast--Central Ontario RouteCentral Ontario Route

�� Requirement that regional tourism authorities include significanRequirement that regional tourism authorities include significant support and media purchasing to encourage active transportatiot support and media purchasing to encourage active transportation, n, ecotourism and sustainability as a primary focusecotourism and sustainability as a primary focus

�� Development of comprehensive planning, marketing and signage forDevelopment of comprehensive planning, marketing and signage for this regional network which provides a framework on which this regional network which provides a framework on which municipalities will connect local trail systems to create an intmunicipalities will connect local trail systems to create an integrated network (regions; connectors; loops)egrated network (regions; connectors; loops)

�� Process streamlining; red tape reduction: Process streamlining; red tape reduction: -- Environmental Assessment process will be streamlined Environmental Assessment process will be streamlined -- establish a class EA that is applied establish a class EA that is applied only where there is significant disruption beyond existing road only where there is significant disruption beyond existing road bedsbeds

�� Encouragement for new Encouragement for new ““enabling technologiesenabling technologies”” such as rapidsuch as rapid--restriping and/or asphalt equipment designed to specifically addrestriping and/or asphalt equipment designed to specifically addshouldersshoulders

�� Encouragement for new local and regional manufacturing, cycling Encouragement for new local and regional manufacturing, cycling support and service industriessupport and service industries�� Development of a highly visible branding and signage program thaDevelopment of a highly visible branding and signage program that is internationally attractive and includes QR codes for multit is internationally attractive and includes QR codes for multi--

language information and directionlanguage information and direction�� Facilitation, access and amenity placement at provincial locatioFacilitation, access and amenity placement at provincial locations (parks; other facilities)ns (parks; other facilities)�� Inclusion of Bicycle Tourism as a major thrust within provincialInclusion of Bicycle Tourism as a major thrust within provincial tourism planning programstourism planning programs�� Development of a comprehensive Cycling Education program that coDevelopment of a comprehensive Cycling Education program that could include a licensing or certification component (revenue streuld include a licensing or certification component (revenue stream) am)

similar to the Boating License schemesimilar to the Boating License scheme�� Federal involvement justified on the Federal involvement justified on the ““JOB CREATIONJOB CREATION”” rationalerationale

ThoughtsThoughts

Research OpportunitiesResearch Opportunities�� Cycling and ecology linkages from the citizenCycling and ecology linkages from the citizen--user pointuser point--ofof--view and an evaluation of the view and an evaluation of the

relationships, priorities and perceptions of natural resource corelationships, priorities and perceptions of natural resource conservation, alternative transportation nservation, alternative transportation planning, tourism and economic developmentplanning, tourism and economic development

�� Characterization/profiling/segmentation of the Ontario cyclistCharacterization/profiling/segmentation of the Ontario cyclist�� Characterization/profiling/segmentation of the Ontario Characterization/profiling/segmentation of the Ontario EcotouristEcotourist and Cycleand Cycle--touristtourist�� Identification of pain and pleasure points for Ontario cyclistsIdentification of pain and pleasure points for Ontario cyclists�� Identification of barriers and entryIdentification of barriers and entry--opportunities for current nonopportunities for current non--usersusers�� Identification of additional publicIdentification of additional public--private partnerships to grow the sectorprivate partnerships to grow the sector�� Identification and analysis of emotional and rational drivers ofIdentification and analysis of emotional and rational drivers of cycling cycling behaviourbehaviour, and relationships , and relationships

to ecology, natural heritage and touring to ecology, natural heritage and touring �� Insights into the relationships between cycling, tourism and traInsights into the relationships between cycling, tourism and trail amenitiesil amenities�� Rapid evaluation of primary provincial bicycle corridors for upgRapid evaluation of primary provincial bicycle corridors for upgrading to rading to ““complete roadcomplete road”” standards standards

for safe regional cyclingfor safe regional cycling�� Rapid evaluation of current and planned municipal cycling and muRapid evaluation of current and planned municipal cycling and multilti--use trail infrastructure, with use trail infrastructure, with

the intent of identifying, regional/provincial connection opportthe intent of identifying, regional/provincial connection opportunities and a unities and a ““big picturebig picture”” funding funding numbernumber

�� Graphical and Information Signage prototyping and usability studGraphical and Information Signage prototyping and usability studies / consumer responseies / consumer response�� Identification of economic opportunities within the Cycling and Identification of economic opportunities within the Cycling and CycleCycle--Tourism sectorsTourism sectors�� Evaluation of Evaluation of CycleTourismCycleTourism and and EcoTourismEcoTourism within the broader provincial/national/international within the broader provincial/national/international

contextcontext�� Opportunities to attract outOpportunities to attract out--ofof--province and international tourism to Ontario based on augmentedprovince and international tourism to Ontario based on augmented

Ecotourism facility and Ecotourism facility and CycleTourismCycleTourism infrastructureinfrastructure�� CostCost--benefit analysis of investment in Cycling Infrastructure benefit analysis of investment in Cycling Infrastructure vsvs other types of Transportation other types of Transportation

Infrastructure investmentInfrastructure investment�� Linkages between Linkages between ““virtual tourismvirtual tourism”” (documentary video productions; travelogue; media coverage (documentary video productions; travelogue; media coverage

and geoand geo--games) and visitation and tourist dollar expenditures games) and visitation and tourist dollar expenditures ““in realityin reality””..

Personal ConclusionsPersonal Conclusions�� The Lake Erie Cycling Route is a The Lake Erie Cycling Route is a ““naturalnatural”” tour cycling venue and tour cycling venue and

provides a framework upon which the Lake Erie Coastal provides a framework upon which the Lake Erie Coastal Stewardship Trail and other multiStewardship Trail and other multi--use Trails can connect use Trails can connect

�� Integrating ecological and natural heritage sites, features and Integrating ecological and natural heritage sites, features and directional and interpretive signage adds significant value to adirectional and interpretive signage adds significant value to aprovincial cycling network, augmenting benefits across many provincial cycling network, augmenting benefits across many sector sector ““overlaysoverlays””

�� Cycling infrastructure development is an inexpensive Cycling infrastructure development is an inexpensive ““lowlow--hanging hanging fruitfruit”” that deserves immediate public and private investmentthat deserves immediate public and private investment

�� Current 10Current 10--year planning horizons should be compressed to a year planning horizons should be compressed to a fourfour--year action plan to accelerate substantial social and economic year action plan to accelerate substantial social and economic benefitsbenefits

�� For the AuthorFor the Author’’s Tour Photo Log, copy & paste this link: s Tour Photo Log, copy & paste this link: https://picasaweb.google.com/113675351760523726131/LakeErihttps://picasaweb.google.com/113675351760523726131/LakeErieCyclingRouteLeadersMobileWorkshop?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1eCyclingRouteLeadersMobileWorkshop?authuser=0&authkey=Gv1sRgCMm0tuCGprGJOw&feat=sRgCMm0tuCGprGJOw&feat=directlinkdirectlink

Doug Vallery [email protected] December 2011

Please get in touch for discussion and comments.

Cycling the lake erie coastal stewardship trail dec 2011

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