Act now! Tell the provinical government that bike lanes matter

In May, Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen announced plans for a bill that would give the Alberta government the power to stop bike lane construction and remove existing bike lanes. The government took further steps towards this in July, creating a complaint portal without an option for people to submit positive feedback. On the form and in interviews, Minister Dreeshen suggests that bike lanes increase traffic congestion, harm business, waste money, and impair emergency services; all of which have been studied and proven to be untrue. Most importantly, they are ignoring the fact that bike lanes improve safety for all road users and save lives.

It is clear that the Government of Alberta wants to move forward on this bill, and we need everybody to speak up and share their support for the bike lanes to try and stop this. Here’s what you can do:

• Contact Minister Dreeshen and your MLA. The best way to reach out is by phone. You can also email or write them a letter. Find your MLA and their contact information here.

Minister Devin Dreeshen: 780 427-2080, transportation.minister@gov.ab.ca

Bike Lane concern email: reportabikelane@gov.ab.ca

Your message does not have to be long or complicated; tell them who you are and why bike lanes matter to you.

1. Write a postcard and tell Minister Dreeshen why you love safe and convenient cycling routes. You can grab a postcard at Bike Hub Calgary, or pick one up from us at Critical Mass on July 31 or the Tweed Ride on August 2. We’re also happy to drop postcards off to you; just email connect@bikecalgary.org. We will gather the postcards and drop them off along with fellow organizations from Edmonton.  
2. Spread the bike lane love! Share your love of the bike lanes with your friends, family, and colleagues and convince them to take action too. Tag us @BikeCalgary, and we’ll amplify your social media messages.
3. Want to take further action? Come volunteer with us or make a donation! Donations will help us cover costs for freedom of information requests and legal counsel.