CHML
2/25/2013
It doesn't look like Hamilton will be home to the next bike-share program just yet.
Based on a popular concept in Europe, it would allow people to borrow bikes from docking stations throughout the city and return them when they're done.
City Staff say it would help encourage transit use, walking and cut down on single occupant vehicles
But Ward 8 councillor Terry Whitehead says he'd rather use money for the program towards fixing up bus shelters adding that he's worried about people with disabilities as they can't use the bikeshare service.
Councillor Tom Jackson says he's against the proposal because he doesn't like the expenses and the "optics" of spending that money.
But Councillor Scott Duvall pointed out that the Bikeshare program wouldn't cost the city anything thanks to 29.8 million dollars given to the city for transit improvement by the Metrolinx Quick Wins Funding program.
Council has referred the Bikeshare proposal back for more information on liability and costs and will come back to the General Issues committee in late March.
Meantime, council has voted that a staff report on the future of rapid transit in Hamilton be presented to Metrolinx.
The city's transportation division came up with three options for the city that outlines planning for light-rail transit, increased city bus ridership, or advancing on both fronts.
Staff estimates the city would see an increase of between 2.9 million and 3.5 million dollars in transit costs, as well as additional costs like loss of parking revenue and increased snow clearing and street lighting pegged at 8.7 million dollars.
The city's transportation director, Don Hull, says it gives council options on how much time and money it is willing to spend on transportation in comparison to its other priorities, such as social housing.
Terry Whitehead talks to Matt Holmes about the program
|