Federal funds shift UVic cycling into new gear

The University of Victoria’s cycling network is about to see some major improvements thanks to new funds from the Government of Canada.

At an event today on the university campus, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources of Canada, announced Infrastructure Canada’s plans to invest more than $10.9 million to support active transportation improvements on Vancouver Island. UVic is one of the beneficiaries, with nearly $2.4 million going towards traffic-calming measures to make road crossings safer, as well as new pedestrian and bicycle pathways and improved lighting and signage in and around campus.

These funds will support further enhancements to our cycling infrastructure on campus and support our commitments as Canada’s climate university. As global leaders in environmental, social and institutional sustainability, we’re prioritizing improvements to active transportation options that will make our campus more walkable and bikeable for everyone.
- Kevin Hall, University of Victoria President and Vice-Chancellor

UVic’s Cycling Plan

Infrastructure Canada’s announcement is a significant step in supporting UVic’s Cycling Plan—a series of strategies and goals aimed at making the UVic campus more bikeable and walkable.

Launched in 2019, the university’s inaugural cycling plan outlines a 10-year approach for improving UVic’s cycling network. Its four key strategies are to:

1. Prioritize active transportation options in university planning
2. Promote safe transportation practices in high-traffic areas
3. Improve safety and comfort for cyclists on campus
4. Enhance end-of-trip facilities like campus showers and change rooms.

Seven major active transportation network improvements are to be completed as part of the Campus Cycling Plan. Now almost half-way through the 10-year term, the campus community has already seen major changes along the main cycling corridors to campus.

“The University Drive Connection Pathway opened in 2021 and the West Campus Greenway was completed this spring. It’s all part of our work to ensure that pedestrians and cyclists of all ages and abilities can enjoy everything our beautiful campus has to offer,” says Mike Wilson, director, Campus Planning and Sustainability.

UVic’s Cycling Plan and this Infrastructure Canada funding reflect UVic’s commitment to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—specifically, SDG 3 (good health and well-being), 7 (affordable and clean energy), 11 (sustainable cities and communities) and 13 (climate action).

UVic is ranked second in the world among universities for climate action. Learn more about our climate impact at uvic.ca/impact.

Read the Government of Canada news release

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