Vancouver council approves use of skates, skateboards, and push-scooters in protected bike lanes

    1 of 3 2 of 3

      This evening at Vancouver City Hall, civic politicians weren't dealing with trains, planes, or automobiles, except for taxis.

      But that didn't mean there weren't several transportation-related issues on the agenda.

      Council voted to approve the use of skates, skateboards, and push-scooters on a one-year trial in protected bike lanes. People using them will be required to wear lighting and reflective gear at night.

      In addition, council voted to approve 58 temporary taxi licences, which will expire January 8. This is designed to deal with increased demand for taxi service over the holiday period.

      City staff also provided council will details about plans for additions to the cycling network over a five-year period following local consultation

      Downtown, there are proposals for enhancements along Beatty, northbound on Cambie, southbound on Richards, and on Smithe and Nelson streets.

      A city report outlines proposals for downtown bike routes.

      In addition, the city is planning an upgrade to the 10th Avenue bike route. According to a staff report, this would include "minor spot improvements in some locations, to traffic calming in other locations, to physical protection in areas where motor vehicle volumes will remain high due to adjacent land uses and destinations (e.g. hospital precinct)".

      Bike routes along Southwest Marine Drive, South False Creek Seawall, the Stanley Park Causeway, Cypress Street, Point Grey Road, and the Burrard Bridge are also in line for upgrades.

      This map shows proposed bike-route changes across the city.

      Comments